I love taking photos in natural settings, and I was fascinated by the way the light was coming down through the trees at Barnett Park. I wanted to focus the image on a sense of scale, and set the tiny delicacy of the individual blades of grass against the huge, powerful silhouette of the cypress tree.
The little paper with the big picture!
If you know me personally, you know I’m an optimist at heart. I’ve always believed in the “glass half full” approach rather than dwelling on what’s missing. Recently, I caught up with a good friend I hadn’t spoken to in months, and he posed an interesting question: with everything happening around us—locally, statewide, nationally, and globally—do you find yourself saying, “What a time to be alive,” or “We are living in some very serious times”?
Honestly, I think both can be true.
Since our last publication, our country has entered a war targeting Iran, which has rippled into broader regional conflicts across the Middle East. The effects have reached us here at home resulting in higher gas prices, increased grocery bills, more expensive airline tickets, and local businesses and nonprofits adjusting operations to keep up with rising costs.
Regardless of how you feel about the war, one thing is undeniable, challenging times have a way of bringing communities together. When the recent partial shutdown of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) left roughly 50,000 officers working without pay due to a congressional funding deadlock, organizations across the country stepped up with food drives and donations to support them.
That same spirit of care is needed now. Many of our neighbors, friends, and family members are feeling the strain of higher living costs. Some communities are organizing carpools to get kids to school or combining grocery trips to save gas. Others are launching initiatives to check on elderly or disabled neighbors who may be aging in place but struggling quietly. Please be the eyes and ears of your community. When we look out for one another, everyone benefits.
As you flip through this issue, you may notice something new. I’ve invited a couple of fresh voices to join us. If you suddenly find yourself feeling hungry, it might be because of the restaurant reviews from our new Midtown Press collaborator, Ollie Damm and food critic BalooEats! I’m excited to welcome their contributions and look forward to expanding our content with even more diverse perspectives
As always, I want to extend a heartfelt thank‑you to our advertisers. I encourage our readers to support these businesses for without them, there is no Midtown Press. And thank you, our readers, for your continued support. We publish this paper for you.
Orange County Clerk of Courts, Tiffany Moore Russell, invites you to attend a series of free, in-person legal forums titled Legal Matters Live: Leaving a Legacy – Probate: Wills, Trusts, & Estate Planning
At some point in life, we all face the loss of a loved one. Along with grief comes the responsibility of managing end-of-life affairs. Whether due to natural causes or unexpected circumstances, navigating the probate process can be overwhelming, especially when advance directives have not been clearly established.
These forums are designed to help educate the community about the probate process and provide guidance on available resources to begin estate planning with confidence.
Upcoming Forum Dates & Locations
Engelwood Neighborhood Center
Tuesday, April 21, 2026 | 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Registration: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1985133782582?aff=oddtdtcreator
Renaissance Senior Center
Tuesday, April 28, 2026 | 12:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Registration: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1984997832953?aff=oddtdtcreator
Attendees will hear from experienced attorneys, including Karen Skyers and Ruby Montes of Heiress Law. Participants will also have the opportunity to ask questions and gain practical insights into wills, trusts, and estate planning.
“These forums are one of the best ways to give our citizens more information on access to justice and insight into how the legal process works. I know probate is a critical topic that can be confusing or difficult to understand,” said Clerk Tiffany Moore Russell
The Orange County Clerk of Courts is expanding its efforts to help residents get back on the road. If your driver license is suspended because of overdue traffic tickets or criminal fines, you can now get support year-round and assistance through an upcoming event makes the process even easier.
On April 15th , the Clerk’s Office will host Operation Green Light at the Orange County Courthouse, with extended hours from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. This one-day event gives customers the chance to:
• Resolve overdue traffic tickets and criminal fines
• Set up affordable payment plans
• Potentially have certain collection agency fees waived
• Take steps toward reinstating their driver license
If all requirements are met, customers may be able to reinstate their license the same day. Reinstatement fees still apply. No appointment or registration is needed.
Operation Green Light is part of a statewide initiative running April 11–25th , helping thousands of Floridians clear overdue fines and restore their driving privileges.
Can’t make it on April 15th? Help is available all year. Visit the Clerk’s Compliance Division in Suite 410, where staff can assist with payment plans and guide you through the reinstatement process.
For more information on either program, visit www.myorangeclerk.com
Orange County’s newly opened Business Resource Office (BRO) will host free training sessions for business owners as part of its Boot Camp series. These sessions are designed to provide educational support and technical assistance to help entrepreneurs achieve long‑term success
Upcoming sessions include:
Hiring Right: Scaling Your Business
April 7, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Orange County Multicultural Center, 7149 West Colonial Drive, Orlando, FL 32818
Launched January 2026, the Business Resource Office was identified as a priority initiative by Mayor Jerry L. Demings to enhance services and expand support for small businesses. Business Resource Office staff provides technical and regulatory guidance, answers questions, and helps businesses navigate County services and partner organizations.
Located on the first floor of the County Administration Center, the office offers referrals to workshops, assistance in navigating the county’s internal services, and an online dashboard with resources to support long-term business growth and success.
Small businesses offer unique products and services, strengthen community identity, attract neighborhood involvement, and support community involvement. Orange County’s Business Resource Office aims to strengthen the county’s relationship with small businesses. Services include:
• Deliver in-person and online customer service
• Link small businesses to existing county programs
• Connect small businesses with economic support organizations
• Educate small businesses on financial, technical, and administrative resources
• Promote procurement and contracting opportunities
• Host Small Business Bootcamp events
For more information, or to register fro the upcoming event visit Business Resource Office website at www.orangecountyfl.net/Business/BusinessResourceOffice.aspx or call 407-836-2859.
Anewly
opened exhibit at The Multicultural Gallery located within the Orange County Multicultural Center entitled Mass Mixed Media by artist Achille “A.J.” Barbel. Barbel is a multidisciplinary artist and designer with a passion for visual storytelling. Born in St. Thomas, USVI, and raised in Florida and Chicago, A.J. developed a keen eye for detail early on, using art as both a creative outlet and a means of expression. His work examines how culture, media, and identity intersect. Working in both physical and digital mediums, he explores layered narratives.
With an Associate of Fine Arts from Valencia College and a Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design and Media Arts from Southern New Hampshire University, he merges traditional illustration with digital craftsmanship. Inspired by artists like Salvador Dalí, Jean Michel Basquiat, and Pablo Picasso, his work often incorporates symbolism, subtle or bold, to provoke thought and emotion.
Mass Mixed Media will be on display through Wednesday, April 14, 2026 at the Orange County Multicultural Center which is open weekdays 8 a.m. to 5 p.m
Last month, a simple yet elegant ceremony was hosted by the National Montford Point Marine Association, Inc. Chapter 29 to posthumously recognize two native Floridian heroes for their distinguished military service.
The Montford Point Marines Bronze Medal is a replica of the Congressional Gold Medal awarded collectively to the Montford Point Marines. This honor recognizes the first African American men to enlist in the United States Marine Corps after President Franklin D. Roosevelt issued Executive Order 8802, establishing the Fair Employment Practices Commission in June 1941
These pioneering Marines were primarily trained at Camp Montford Point in North Carolina, including Black Marines from Jacksonville, North Carolina, assigned to the 8th Ammunition Company and the 3rd Depot Company. These units landed on Iwo Jima on February 19, 1945, marking the largest deployment of Black Marines in direct combat during World War II. Montford Point Marines also participated in amphibious landings on Peleliu and Saipan. During World War II, nearly 19,000 African Americans served in the United States Marine Corps, with approximately 13,000 serving in overseas units.
Private Leroy Beasley was a proud Montford Point Marine, born on December 11, 1914. In January 1944, he entered military service during a defining era in our nation’s history, joining the courageous group of African American Marines who broke racial barriers and laid the foundation for generations to come. He served honorably until November 13, 1945.
The Congressional Gold Medal, is in grateful recognition of his patriotism, sacrifice, and enduring legacy. The National Montford Point Marine Association are especially honored to share this moment with his family, including his son, and mentor, Retired Navy Captain Ron Beasley.
Private First Class Jeff Davis Johnson served his country with distinction as one of the courageous Montford Point Marines, among the first African American men to serve in the United States Marine Corps.
He entered military service on November 26, 1943, and served honorably until April 6, 1946, during a time marked by segregation and adversity. His service reflects great strength, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to paving the way for future generations.
We the members of the National Montford Point Marine Association proudly honor his legacy through the presentation of the Congressional Gold Medal to his family. Accepting the medal on behalf of the family was his nephew, Mr. Fred Robinson, a Florida Veterans Hall of Fame inductee and Chair of the Orlando Mayor’s Veterans Advisory Council.
On Saturday, March 28, 2026, the Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando opened the doors to its brand‑new, state‑of‑the‑art animal shelter, a milestone years in the making.
The celebration comes after a devastating chapter in the organization’s history. In September 2021, a fire tore through the former Conroy Road shelter, killing more than a dozen animals and destroying the building. In the days that followed, the community rallied with extraordinary compassion: more than 13,000 donors contributed over $1 million within a month to help the nonprofit rebuild.
Now, that support has taken shape in a $15 million, 25,000‑square‑foot facility on South John Young Parkway. The new shelter dramatically expands Pet Alliance’s ability to care for and rehome animals across Central Florida. The air conditioned campus can house up to 275 pets at a time and features a spacious, modern medical unit equipped to treat both dogs and cats.
“It’s been a long journey to get here, but this facility really represents hope and healing for our organization and the community,” said Lindsay Framstead, Director of Human Resources for Pet Alliance.
Framstead noted that the expanded medical space will enable staff to provide more comprehensive care for animals entering the shelter, while the increased capacity will help meet the region’s growing adoption demand. Leaders estimate the new campus will enable Pet Alliance to place roughly 6,000 animals into loving homes each year.
Story by Ollie Damm Midtown Press Contributor
Since 2008, the Winter Garden Farmer’s Market has been a hub for anyone in Orange County looking to support small businesses and buy affordable, locally sourced produce. With grocery prices on the rise, I wanted to check out the offerings at the market and chat with some of the small business owners who turn up every Saturday to show off their wares and make new connections with their community.
The Market is extensive, stretching through much of downtown Winter Garden, and hosts over a hundred small businesses. A lot of vendors sell produce, but there is plenty of art, handcrafted clothing, and food to make for an interesting visit. The produce stalls are the largest by far, with one huge brick awning absolutely packed with fresh fruits and vegetables. The grocers’ stalls proudly declare which vegetables are local, even sharing the farm's name so you can check them out yourself.
With my pantry now stocked with fresh produce, I spent the rest of my time at the market chatting with some of the businesses that find a home there. I saw everything from fresh seafood to handmade pasta to leather and woodworking artisans.
I stopped by Black Brew Bros, an artisanal coffee brewery offering specially crafted flavors and high-quality Arabica coffee beans to Market attendees. The company, founded by Brandon Erving, has been selling at the Farmer’s market since 2020. I was lucky enough to chat with Chad, Erving’s brother, about what the market meant to him and to the business. He thought for a moment, then said, “We get to meet people, different people every weekend. And when they try our coffee and come back again, you know, it means a lot to us.”
On my way out of the market, I saw a line of people stretching for nearly two stalls. I followed the excited crowd to DiVilma’s Cinnamon Rolls. Relatively new to the market, in the seven months they’ve been selling here, they’ve already attracted quite a following. DiVilma’s specializes in decadent, gourmet sweet treats and is a crowd favorite at the market. I had a moment to talk with Nancy, one of DiVilma’s employees, who had many positive things to share about the Market. “I love the community,” she said. “And I love seeing everyone here, like the customers that come back. DiVilma’s is on a fast-growing trajectory, and markets like the one in Winter Garden have only helped them develop into the beloved staple they’ve become. We’re up to selling 600 to 700 rolls a day, or even selling out, depending on how busy the market is.
Winter Garden Farmer's Market has been a family-friendly community staple for nearly twenty years. Every attendee and vendor there is proof that it is possible to eat healthy, support local businesses, and not blow out your budget. If you’re looking for ways to try new things and find a new community, without breaking the bank, take a day trip to the market. See what you can discover.
AAn Orlando Science Charter School (OSS) seventh grader is about to compete in one of the most prestigious youth events in the country. Hardit Tayal qualified for the Scripps National Spelling Bee after shining at the regional-level tournament. He’ll test his knowledge against more than 200 people in Washington, D.C. in May. Hardit is following in the footsteps of another OSS student and spelling bee participant who earned a ninth‐place finish in 2015 and tied for 23rd place in 2017.
Good luck, Hardit!
On March 26, 2026, Orange County Mayor Jerry L. Demings welcomed the community to the fourth annual Women’s History Month Forum, an inspiring event dedicated to celebrating and uplifting women across Central Florida.
Observed each March, Women’s History Month recognizes the powerful contributions women have made throughout history. This year’s forum took that celebration a step further by focusing on a holistic vision of success, supporting women not only in their careers, but also in their financial stability and emotional well-being.
Hosted at the Orange County Multicultural Center, the morning event featured a dynamic mix of live performances, interactive sessions, and meaningful conversations. One of the standout moments was a presentation by Colette Jane Fehr, who shared powerful insights from her book, The Cost of Quiet.
Attendees left feeling inspired and energized, having gained valuable perspectives from leaders in health, safety, and career development. The forum also created space for connection, bringing together individuals passionate about building stronger, healthier communities.
Events like this serve as a reminder that when women are supported in every aspect of their lives, the entire community thrives.
Mayor Jerry L. Demings joined Seniors First this March as part of March for Meals, the nationwide Meals on Wheels America campaign calling attention to senior hunger and the urgent need to “End the Wait.” On Monday, March 23rd, he stepped in as a volunteer, personally delivering meals to older adults across Orange County and seeing firsthand the impact of home-delivered nutrition and connection.
This year is especially meaningful for Seniors First, which is celebrating 60 years of helping older adults age safely and with dignity in their own homes. As the sole provider of weekday meal deliveries in Orange County, the organization continues to shine a light on how essential food, wellness checks and social connection are to seniors’ long-term health and independence.
Seniors First is marking its 60th anniversary with a yearlong celebration throughout 2026, honoring its legacy while spotlighting the growing needs of Central Florida’s rapidly expanding senior population. As the largest nonprofit serving older adults in the region, the organization’s impact is both deep and far-reaching.
- 60 years serving Central Florida seniors (founded in 1966)
- 105,000+ seniors supported across the region
- 11 million+ meals delivered to date
- 1,000+ meals delivered every weekday in Orange County
- 170+ seniors receiving fresh produce through Garden Patch Delivery
“As Seniors First marks 60 years of service, we are celebrating not only our history, but our responsibility to grow alongside the needs of Central Florida’s aging population,” said Marsha Lorenz, President and CEO of Seniors First. “For six decades, we have believed that food is medicine, and looking ahead, we remain committed to expanding our reach, strengthening partnerships and ensuring more seniors can live healthy, independent lives here in Central Florida. Honoring yesterday, shaping tomorrow.”
As the number of older adults in Central Florida continues to rise, Seniors First is using this milestone year to highlight how nutrition, social connection and essential services help seniors remain healthy, independent and connected to the community they call home.
WWe’re always on the lookout for small businesses opening in our community, and one that recently caught our attention is Juici Patties, Jamaica’s largest fast-food chain, known for its authentic Jamaican patties featuring a flaky, golden-yellow crust and rich, seasoned fillings.
Originally founded in May Pen, Jamaica, the brand has grown into an international favorite, with a strong and expanding presence across Florida and New York. Now, Juici Patties is making a major push into the Orlando area as part of an aggressive U.S. expansion strategy. The menu highlights traditional Jamaican favorites, including beef, chicken, and veggie patties, often paired with cocoa bread, a staple combination loved throughout the Caribbean.
Juici Patties is rapidly expanding across Orlando, with several locations now open: MetroWest/Kirkman Road – 3120 S. Kirkman Rd.
West Orlando/Hiawassee Road – 2842 N. Hiawassee Rd.
East Orlando/East Colonial Drive – 10376 E. Colonial Dr.
The Pine Hills location on Hiawassee Road officially opened on December 14, 2025, bringing authentic Jamaican flavors to the neighborhood.
To learn more, we sent our own Ollie Damm, Midtown Press Contributor, to experience the restaurant firsthand.
The inside of Juici Patties is chic and convenient, with plenty of standing room for customers waiting to pick up their treats. While I was there observing the staff at work, a steady stream of customers came through the door and were consistently greeted with warm smiles and brisk, efficient service
The menu is simple, straightforward, and true to the brand’s name: you go in expecting patties, and patties are exactly what you’ll get. It’s refreshingly rare to see a business confidently specialize in a single item, and Juici Patties does so exceptionally well.
I ordered the spicy beef patties with cheese and was immediately impressed by their warm, golden color and flaky pastry, a presentation that was appealing straight out of the to-go bag. The savory beef filling was tender and, as the brand name promises, delightfully juicy. A lingering, warming spice enhanced the flavor rather than overpowering it, making the overall experience even more memorable. I planned to save one patty for lunch the next day, but that resolve didn’t last long; I polished off both almost immediately.
In addition to the patties, I ordered a loaf of Coco Bread. Warm, soft, and fresh, it reheated perfectly for breakfast the following morning.
Overall, my experience at Juici Patties was comfortable, convenient, welcoming, and genuinely heartwarming. The food was excellent, the people even better, and I will certainly be stopping by again. Juici Patties are a welcome addition to the halls of savory pastry history, and anyone curious to try them should visit.
You know that feeling when you discover a themed cooking show on your favorite streaming service and think, “That sounds delicious, I’d love to try that!” After watching several Asian themed cooking shows, I felt inspired to step out of my comfort zone and explore new Asian dishes, including marinated tofu with a little added spice. Culinary Wars, in particular, inspired me.
That curiosity led me to Licious Noodles and Bao, located at 5076 W. Colonial Dr., tucked inside Orlando's vibrant Chinatown Market. The restaurant has a modern atmosphere with plenty of seating, making it both welcoming and comfortable. My server, Bobby, was friendly and knowledgeable, offering helpful insight into the menu.
I started with a few appetizers, including spicy wings and marinated tofu. Although I had never tried tofu before, I was pleasantly surprised. The sauce was flavorful and delicious. The wings were perfectly crispy, though not as spicy as expected. I also enjoyed the scallion pancakes, which were crisp and satisfying, and the potstickers, which were generously filled and paired well with their dipping sauce.
The seafood curry was the standout dish of the meal. Despite its rich flavor, it wasn’t spicy and came with a hearty portion of pasta, making it especially filling. While the rice bowl didn’t look impressive at first glance, the pork was packed with flavor, and the rice helped round out the meal nicely.
Overall, my experience at Licious Noodles and Bao was enjoyable, flavorful, and a great introduction to trying new dishes. I’d definitely return to explore more of the menu
To engage with more of my reviews, follow me on my social media:
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My name is Travis Johnson, but on the food scene, I’m known as Baloo Eats! Born and raised in South Orlando, I embrace the vibrant culture, diversity, and warmth of my hometown! Growing up in a city known for its global flavors and hidden culinary gems, I developed a deep love for the food scene early on — a passion that continues to shape both my lifestyle and community involvement today.
With a broad palate and an adventurous curiosity for cuisine, I’m always on the hunt for that next unforgettable bite. But beyond enjoying great food, I’m a devoted advocate for mom-and-pop restaurants, food trucks, popups, and local businesses. I believe these small establishments are the heart of Orlando’s culinary personality and work to spotlight their unique dishes, stories, and cultural contributions. Whether it’s exploring longstanding neighborhood staples or discovering rising local chefs, I proudly use my voice to uplift the community and encourage others to dine local, support small, and appreciate the rich flavors that make Orlando special.
Many neighborhoods in Pine Hills are proudly participating in Orange County’s Yard of the Month (YOM) program—a simple yet impactful initiative that celebrates residents who help keep their communities beautiful. While homeowners' associations (HOAs) and neighborhood leaders often focus on addressing property concerns or managing community projects, their busy schedules can sometimes make it difficult to recognize the individuals who go above and beyond. The Yard of the Month program provides an easy, structured way to highlight and appreciate those efforts.
The program encourages residents to take pride in their homes in a fun and engaging way. Communities can nominate and vote for properties that stand out, with winners receiving a Yard of the Month or Yard of the Quarter sign as a symbol of recognition.
Winning properties are selected based on key criteria, including well-maintained lawns with healthy, green grass, neat landscaping, overall tidiness, strong curb appeal, and yards free of clutter and debris. Orange County is committed to showcasing the positive efforts happening across local neighborhoods. In upcoming issues, we look forward to featuring some of these outstanding homes and the residents who make Pine Hills a more beautiful and welcoming place to live.
phsnp.outreach@gmail.com
Be the Breakthrough. Change What’s Possible.
Every medical breakthrough begins with courage — the courage to ask questions, to explore new possibilities, and to step forward in hope. At AdventHealth, we believe discov ery is a calling. And you can be part of it.
Before new treatments become available to patients everywhere, they must be carefully studied to ensure they are safe and effective. This vital process — called clinical research — brings tomorrow’s care to life through clin ical trials. Each study moves us closer to better treatments, greater under standing and, ultimately, new cures.
Right here in Central Florida, AdventHealth conducts hundreds of clinical trials each year. Behind every study is a team of dedicated researchers, physicians and volunteers wo rking together to transform the future of health care.
Your participation can make a lasting difference.
People who join clinical trials come from all walks of life. Their willingness to serve helps researchers better understand diseases, refine treatments, and improve care for generations to come. Participants may also gain access to innovative therapies not yet widely available — offering new o ptions and new hope.
Diversity drives discovery.
For medical advancements to truly serve everyone, research must reflect everyone. Age, ethnicity, gender and life experiences can all influence how treatments work. By welcoming volunteers from diverse backgrounds, we ensure that discoveries are inclusive, equitable and effective for the communities we serve. When more voices are represented in research, the impact reaches further.
The AdventHealth Research Institute currently offers more than 800 active clinical trials across eleven specialty areas, including cancer care, heart disease, brain health, exercise and metabolism, and more. Participation may offer:
Access to promising new treatments before they are widely available
Additional monitoring and support from your care team
Possible compensation for eligible participants
The profound fulfillment of helping others through your contribution
Be part of what’s next.
If you’re interested in learning whether a clinical trial may be right for you, start by speaking with your physician. To explore local studies at AdventHealth , visit BeTheBreakthrough.com or call You can also search global studies at ClinicalTrials.gov.
When you choose to participate in research, you’re not just joining a study. You’re helping create a f uture where healing is stronger, care is more personalize d and breakthroughs are within reach for all.
