EDITOR’S CHAIR
In today's world, it can feel like bad news dominates the headlines. Turn on the TV, scroll through social media, or read the latest reports, and it seems as though crises, conflicts, and catastrophes are everywhere. From a hotly contested election, threats of war in the Middle East, and the recent storms, there is bad news all around us. In high school, I was part of a "good news" project whose goal was to find positive stories to report about to combat the negative news that dominated the news at the time. Hopefully, this helps you see why I was captivated by the idea of owning/operating the paper.
What I find ironic about this is the timing. About 30 years ago (showing my age here), we were dealing with a war in the Middle East - the Gulf War- and another contentious presidential election, Bill Clinton vs. George Bush . While the challenges persist, it's essential to recognize that uplifting, positive stories are unfolding all around us. Even in times of adversity, our resilience and capacity for kindness always desires to shine through. This is precisely the goal of The Midtown Press. I want to ensure that this publication is one that people turn to for positivity, inspiration and fosters a sense of community.
The feedback I receive from readers is confirmation, which allows me to continue working on delivering the paper you have come to know and appreciate.
Last month, I recived a phone call from a number I didn't recognize. I still answered the call, and by the tone of the caller, I immediately went into defense mode as I was preparing myself for a criticism of the paper. However, to my surprise, she wanted to compliment me on how appreciative she was of the paper, how much she looked forward to reading it, and to "keep up the good work." It caused some moisture to form on my face - yes, I shed a tear. This role is often a onesided transaction. I appreciate all of the feedback I receive, both positive and negative. It helps me work even harder to ensure we produce a high-quality project that the community can feel proud of.
Although our recent temperatures don't reflect it, we are in the Fall season! Halloween is right around the corner, so we included a story about Halloween safety (page 10). Before long, we will be making our annual trips to the grocery stores to buy our turkey for Thanksgiving dinner . So you don't overdo it, we included a story (page 12) about preparing a delicious holiday meal with a healthy twist!
As always, thank you for supporting the Midtown Press - The little paper with the big picture!
Tidbits
Orange County Proposes FY 2024- 2025 Budget
Orange County Mayor Jerry L. Demings and the Board of County Commissioners have proposed budget for fiscal year 2024-25 , encompassing the period beginning October 1, 2024 and ending September 30, 2025. The proposed budget for fiscal year 2025 reflects the County's commitment to "Building a Better Orange County Together" . Orange County’s most essential and largest single revenue source in this budget is property taxes, which are up 7.8% . A second public hearing for the FY 2024-2025 budget was held on Thursday, September 19, 2024. Some of the highlights of the budget include:
Affordable Housing:
Orange County has allocated $16.1 million for the FY 2024-2025 budget, bringing the total investment in affordable and workforce housing to $83.8 million over six years and a commitment of more than $160 million over ten years.
Homeless Services:
Orange County intends to expand services to people experiencing homelessness by adding $10 million to the budget for a total of $56 million for prevention/diversion, rapid rehousing, permanent supportive housing, and outreach.
Protection of Natural Habitats:
In the 2021-22 annual budget the Board approved $100 million for the preservation of Orange County’s natural habitats. Since then, more than 1,760 acres have been added to the County’s existing 24,000 acres of preserved lands. Fourteen properties are open to the public for nature-based recreation. Orange County will continue to use the $100 million to preserve environmentally sensitive lands for the protection of natural resources.
Transportation:
Orange County continues to invest in transportation solutions and improvements with the $100 million Accelerated Transportation Safety Program for safety projects related to pedestrian, bicycle, and motorist safety, including transit enhancements. The fiveyear budget plan includes $55 million for roadway lighting, sidewalks, transportation, and public safety and $45 million for transit improvements.
Fire Rescue :
Orange County proposes to raise the Fire & EMS millage (tax rate) from 2.2437 to 2.8437 mills, a 0.6 mill increase, which would bring in approximately $69.1 million in additional revenue. This would be the first increase in the County’s Fire MSTU millage rate in 34 years. The millage rate has decreased several times over those 34 years. The demand for services has increased for all communities within Orange County, and the cost of services for equipment, supplies, advanced technology, and personnel has risen substantially over the years.
Tidbits
Free COVID-19 Tests Are Available Again
As we head into respiratory virus & flu season high levels of the coronavirus have already been circulating. With that in mind, each household is eligible to receive four at-home test kits, for FREE which can be requested from COVIDTests.gov website. The kits starting shipping in September through the US Postal Service.
COVID-19 testing can help you know if you have COVID-19 so you can decide what to do next, like getting treatment to reduce your risk of severe illness and taking steps to lower your chances of spreading the virus to others.
This is the program’s seventh round of distribution, which has delivered more than 900 million free tests directly to US residents since it started in the winter of 2021, according to the US Department of Health and Human Services
Information about the available tests:
• Are rapid antigen at-home tests, not PCR
• Can be taken at home or other locations. Results within 30 minutes
• Can be used for testing even if you do not have COVID-19 symptoms
• Can be used for testing whether you are up to date on your COVID-19 vaccines or not
Scan QR Code to Order Tests
General Election Sample Ballots Now Available on the Orange County Supervisor of Elections Website
The Orange County Supervisor of Elections has uploaded November General Election sample ballots to the Supervisor of Elections website.
The sample ballots can be accessed from the “What’s on my Ballot”, “Check My Info”, or “Find my Polling Place” menu items under the “Voters” main menu.
Additionally, there is a combined “Sample Ballots PDF” with all the ballot styles. This can be found on the “Election Results and Turnout” menu under the “Elections” main menu.
The “What’s on my Ballot” option will give Orange County registered voters a preview of the ballot they will see when they vote in the upcoming primary election.
Residents can visit the Orange County Supervisor of Elections website for registration information, request a vote-by-mail ballot, or sign up for Ballot-Trax.
Vote By Mail
If you are unable or prefer not to vote early or at the polls on Election Day, you may request a vote-by-mail ballot . The vote-by-mail packet will include instructions on how to mark your ballot, sign the voter’s certificate, and return your ballot.
You can request a vote-by-mail ballot to be mailed to you at any time. You can also have an immediate family member or legal guardian request the vote-by-mail ballot on your behalf. You or your designee can request a vote-by-mail ballot for all elections through the end of the calendar year of the next ensuing regularly scheduled general election (including those not yet scheduled at the time of your request). We must receive your request for a voteby-mail ballot no later than 5 p.m. twelve days before the election.
For your vote to count, we must receive your voted, signed vote-by-mail ballot no later than 7 p.m. on Election Day – postmarks do not count.
If you do not want to mail back your completed ballot, you can drop it off at the Supervisor of Elections office anytime, or during early voting hours at any early voting location. All early voting locations can be found on on the next page.
Early Voting Information
Beginning Monday, October 21, 2024 to Sunday, November 3, 2024 the Orange County Supervisor of Elections will open 22 locations throughout the county available to all Orange County voters daily from 8 AM – 8 PM for early voting.
Please note that you must be an eligible registered voter in Orange County, to vote at an Early Voting site.
Additionbally, please remember to bring photo and signature identification.
See below for a full list of all 22 Early Voting locations:
Alafaya Library
12000 E. Colonial Dr. Orlando, FL 32826
South Creek Library
1702 Deerfield Blvd. Orlando, FL 32837
Apopka Community Center
519 S. Central Ave. Apopka, FL 32703
Southeast Library
5575 S. Semoran Blvd. Orlando, FL 32822
Chickasaw Library
870 N. Chickasaw Trail. Orlando, FL 32825
Southwest Library 7255 Della Dr. Orlando, FL 32819
Fairview Shores Library
902 Lee Road, Suite 26 Orlando, FL 32810
Tibet-Butler Preserve
8777 County Rd. 535 Orlando, FL 32836
Hiawassee Library 7391 W. Colonial Dr. Orlando, FL 32818
Town of Eatonville Town Hall
307 E. Kennedy Blvd. Eatonville, FL 32751
Lift Orlando
710 S. Tampa Ave. Orlando, FL 32805
UCF – Live Oak Event Center 4115 Pyxis Lane. Orlando, FL 32816
Marks Street Senior Recreation Complex 99 E. Marks St. Orlando, FL 32803
Valencia College – Lake Nona Campus 12350 Narcoossee Rd. Orlando, FL 32832
Meadow Woods Recreation Center 1751 Rhode Island Woods Cir. Orlando, FL 32824
Washington Park Library 5151 Raleigh St. Suite A, Orlando, FL 32811
Orange County National Golf Center 16301 Phil Ritson Way. Winter Garden, FL 34787
West Oaks Library 1821 E. Silver Star Rd. Ocoee, FL 34761
Orange County Supervisor of Elections 119 W. Kaley St. Orlando, FL 32806
Winter Garden Library 805 E. Plant St. Winter Garden, FL 34787
Renaissance Senior Center 3800 S Econlockhatchee Trail. Orlando, FL 32829
Winter Park Library 1052 W. Morse Blvd. Winter Park, FL 32789
Community Arts Spotlight
The Winter Park Playhouse has teamed up with Barbara Chandler Productions to create a quarterly cabaret series entitled Sounds of the World: Celebrating Diversity in Music. Sounds of the World series is a community outreach by the theatre to provide a platform for underrepresented voices to perform. By teaming up with Barbara Chandler Productions, this series will shine a spotlight on unique talent in the area that highlights particular cultural experiences each quarter.
As a tribute to Hispanic Heritage month, Afro Latin Fever will feature the vocal talents of Sizla Aponte and her accompanist, professional Flamenco dancing by Briana Small and African drumming by Thobus Lubamba. This is a one hour cabaret style event. All tickets are general seating and include a drink choice from the bar.
"I am very excited to be working in collaboration once again with The Winter Park Playhouse! As we present Afro Latin Fever, we pay tribute to Hispanic and African heritage and traditions and present a unique blend of talent that reflects this diverse community!" confirms Barbara Chandler.
Ask the Expert |
By Amanda Mahaleris RDN/LDN
Holiday Eating: Thanksgiving Tips to Enjoy The Day!
Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and, of course, delicious food. However, it can also be a time when healthy eating habits go out the window. With so many tempting dishes and desserts, it's easy to overindulge. Don't worry; there are ways to enjoy the holiday without sabotaging your health goals.
Firstly, don't skip meals leading up to Thanksgiving dinner. Many people make the mistake of "saving" their calories for the big meal, but this can lead to overeating and feeling uncomfortably full. Instead, eat a balanced breakfast and lunch, including plenty of fruits and vegetables, to keep you satisfied throughout the day.
When it comes to the main event, go for lean protein sources like turkey breast without the skin. Fill up on non-starchy vegetables like green beans, Brussels sprouts, and carrots. These vegetables are low in calories but high in fiber, which will keep you feeling full. Avoid heavy, creamy sides like mashed potatoes, and instead go for roasted sweet potatoes or a small serving of stuffing or dressing. However, always keep in mind how these dishes were prepared. When cooking, try using less butter, sugar, and salt to keep things on the healthier side. Don't forget about dessert!
While you can always reach for healthier options like baked apples or a fruit salad instead of traditional desserts like pecan or pumpkin pie, don't feel that you have to avoid these delicious desserts you enjoy year after year. Simply, opt for a smaller slice and skip the whipped cream.
That brings us to our next tip: Portion control.
• Use a smaller plate and fill half of your plate with vegetables, one quarter with your choice of protein, and one quarter with a starch.
• Stick to your plate, avoid fumbling around with plates and bowls on the side, and avoid piling foods sky high. This will help you keep track of how much you're eating and prevent overindulging.
Healthy eating during Thanksgiving is certainly possible. You can enjoy the holiday without sacrificing your health by following these tips. Happy Thanksgiving!
Amanda Mahaleris is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist with a special interest in community nutrition, Amanda aims to help individuals of all ages reduce their risk for preventable chronic illness through dietary changes by educating using science-based information. Amanda holds a Bachelor of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders from the University of Central Florida and worked in the public-school system before attaining a Master of Science in Human Nutrition from the University of Alabama.
Pine Hills Community Council Corner
We invite organizations, educational institutions, and businesses to participate in an upcoming event the Council is hosting, “Get Hired & Inspired” on Wednesday, October 16, 2024, from 4:00-7:00 pm at the Orange County Multi Cultural Center located at 7149 West Colonial Drive.
The goal of this event is to help close the economic gap by bridging employers with potential employees. Hiring managers and HR leaders are being invited to join the Council and its partners as we work together to close the economic gap by bridging hiring organizations in Orange County and the Central Florida area with potential candidates seeking job and career opportunities.
ARE YOU SEEKING EMPLOYMENT OR A CAREER CHANGE OPPORTUNITY?
“GET HIRED & INSPIRED” WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2024 4:00-7:00 PM
AT THE ORANGE COUNTY MULTICULTURAL CENTER LOCATED AT 7149 WEST COLONIAL DRIVE ORLANDO, FL. 32818
Hiring employers and community service representatives will be onsite during this event!
The Pine Hills Community Council, Inc. goal is to strengthen our community by bringing together residents, businesses, and organizations to achieve measurable results and lasting impact.
SP ECIAL GUEST
SP EAKE R
CO MMISSION ER
MIC HAEL “MIKE” SCO TT DIST RICT 6 EVENT PARTICIPANTS INCLUDE :
• Orange County Sheriff’s Office
• Orange County Parks & Rec
• Florida Blue Health Care
• Jobs Partnership
• Daily Bread of Central Florida
• Greater Haitian American Chamber of Commerce
• Dress for Success Greater Orlando
• Orange County Supervisors of Election Office
• Community Action Division –Family Self Sufficiency Program
• Seniors Helping Seniors Orlando West
• The Family Self-Sufficiency Program
SCAN THE QR CODE BELOW TO REGISTER FOR THIS ECONOMIC BRIDGING EVENT.
Special Thank you to the Orange County Multicultural Center for your hospitality!
Maynard Evans High School
Principal's Message
Kenya Nelson-Warren Principal
Evans High School is a place with high expectations for all students, faculty and staff. At Evans, teachers and students work together to build a strong, academic foundation based on state and national standards. We strive to provide a rigorous and relevant high school experience with the character, climate, culture, and curricula that is competitive with any public or private institution.
To assist our students in acquiring the skills necessary to reach their full potential, Evans High is committed to establishing a cooperative and lasting partnership between home, school, and the community. Evans will provide the necessary education for all students to be responsible and successful citizens. Our purpose is to provide Literacy, Rigor, and Relationships for all students during their years in High School.
The Evans Community School is a vital part of every student's overall well-being. Thanks to a strong partnership with UCF, the Children's Home Society, JP Morgan Chase, Orange Blossom Health, and OCPS, we are able to offer on-site medical services, social services, and tutoring opportunities for our students and community.
We believe that each of our students has the courage to overcome any obstacles, the energy to excel beyond expectations, and the determination to do and be their best. At Evans, we seek to make our student’s learning experiences both challenging and memorable.
With Trojan Pride,
Kenya Nelson-Warren Principal
How to Avoid a Charity Scam
Courtesy of McCoy – Your Community Credit Union
When a natural disaster devastates an area, or when tragedy unfolds on a national or global scale, our first instinct is often to ask, “What can I do to help?” With so many people eager to provide aid with monetary donations, scammers take the opportunity to prey on the misfortune of others.
Similarly, scammers take advantage of the kindness of others during annual charitable campaigns like Giving Tuesday, which occurs the Tuesday following Thanksgiving. While many support causes that are close to them during this time, it’s important to be mindful of where the money is going.
Consider the tips below to ensure any donation you make is going to the right place.
Do Your Research
Before making a donation to any organization, ensure that it is registered by searching Charity Navigator, CharityWatch or the BBB Wise Giving Alliance. Also search online for the name of the charity with the words "review," "scam," or "complaint" to see if others have had a negative experience.
Avoid crowdfunding campaigns created by unknown individuals.
Scammers pretend to collect donations for an important cause, but they take the money for themselves instead. Only donate to a crowdfunding campaign if it was created by someone you know, trust, and who can verify where the money is going.
Pay The Right Way
Never donate to a campaign or organization that tells you to donate with cash, gift cards, cryptocurrency or by wiring money. That's how scammers want you to pay. Also, never provide banking or other personal information in response to unsolicited calls or emails on behalf of a charity.
Most importantly, only donate to charities you know and trust after verifying that you’re sending the donation to the correct place, such as through the charity’s secure website. If a friend asks you to support a cause they care about, share this information with them as well to ensure you’re both supporting the charity and not a scammer.
