THE
Midtown
Press
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2026 VOLUME XXXI NUMBER 4 www.themidtownpress.com
PROUDLY SERVING GREATER PINE HILLS & SURROUNDING COMMUNITIES
The little paper with the big picture!
Septic-to-Sewer Project completed Page 7
new Innovation Center and Senior Center Page 8
People's Hob Nob & Straw Poll Page 10
School Bus SAFETY Page 16 T H E M I DTO W N P RESS / 1
2 / THE MIDTO W N PR E SS
The little paper with the big picture!
In This Issue 5 Editor's Chair 6 Orange County Clerk's Office - Unclaimed Money 7 Completion of Septic-to-Sewer Project 10 People's Hob Nob & Straw Poll Results 12 Midtown Marketplace 16 School Bus Safety 17 OCPS Offers Free Lunch for '26 - '27 19 Pine Hills Safe Neighborhood Partnership
Dates to Know
Midtown
THE
Press
AUGUST 2026 1 National Minority Donor Awareness Day 3 National Watermelon Day 6 National Root Beer Float Day 9 National Book Lovers Day 13 Left-Handers Day 16 National Work From Home Wellness Day 19 National Soft Ice Cream Day 25 Kiss and Make Up Day 31 Eat Outside Day
SEPTEMBER 2026 1 National Suicide Prevention Month 5 National Be Late For Something Day 7 Labor Day 11 Rosh Hashanah 12 National Chocolate Milkshake Day 14 National Food Is Medicine Day 22 Autumnal Equinox (Start of Fall) 25 National Daughters Day
Cover Photo
A
s children head back to the classroom, many families are feeling the pinch of higher grocery bills, rising fuel costs, and the everyday expenses that continue to stretch household budgets. After paying for necessities, finding money for backpacks, notebooks, pencils, and other school supplies can be a real challenge. That's why community backpack giveaways like this one hosted ny the The Pine Hills Community Council make such a difference. They ease the burden on parents while ensuring children have the tools they need to learn, EM I DTO WN P RESS /3 grow, and succeed fromT Hthe very first day of school.
Midtown
THE
Press
The little paper with the big picture!
4 / THE MIDTO W N PR E SS
EDITOR’S CHAIR
I
f you blinked, the summer is over and here we are already heading back to school. Where has the time gone? Speaking of time, in just a few weeks months, we'll even be turning our clocks back. That is, unless Congress finally decides to put an end to Daylight Saving Time once and for all. However you feel about changing the clocks, one thing is certain: this year is moving at lightning speed. As families prepare for another school year, we've packed this issue with helpful back-to-school tips to help students, parents, and educators start the year off right. From healthy lunch ideas and wellness reminders to community resources and neighborhood news, we hope you'll find something useful to make the transition back to the classroom a little easier.
Speaking of changing seasons, fall is almost here which means it won't be long before Pumpkin Spice Latte's start appearing at your favorite coffee shop. That also means I need to get busy in the kitchen creating some fun new fall flavors for SMILE Ice Cream. Every season deserves a little creativity, and I always enjoy experimenting with flavors that bring a smile to people's faces. If you're in the neighborhood, stop by for a scoop. Of course, this is also election season. As we move closer to the upcoming midterm elections, you'll notice the campaign ads becoming more frequent, the debates becoming louder, and the political rhetoric becoming even more intense. It's easy to become discouraged by the constant stream of opinions and disagreements, but this is also an important reminder of the privilege and responsibility we have as citizens.
I encourage you to take the time to learn about the candidates and issues, make an informed decision, and most importantly, VOTE! Our communities are strongest when people participate in the process. Sitting on the sidelines leaves the decisions to someone else, and every voice truly does matter. No matter which candidates win or lose, remember that once the ballots are counted, we're still neighbors. We worship together, shop in the same stores, attend the same community events, and cheer for the same teams and organizations. We have far more in common than what divides us. Let's choose respect over hostility, conversation over confrontation, and kindness over conflict. A little grace can go a long way, especially during election season. Finally, as I always do, I'd like to thank the businesses that advertise in The Midtown Press. Their partership allows us to continue sharing the positive stories, community news, and neighborhood information that make this publication possible. Please support the advertisers you see in these pages. Tell them you saw them in The Midtown Press. Your support of these businesses helps them succeed, and in turn, helps keep this publication in your hands. Thank you for reading, thank you for supporting our community, and thank you for allowing us to be a small part of your lives. Here's wishing all of our students, teachers, school staff, and families a safe, successful, and exciting new school year. Until next time, be kind to one another, support your neighbors, and keep smiling!
Glen
T H E M I DTO W N P RESS / 5
KNOW THIS! Orange County Clerk's Office Urges Residents to Check for Unclaimed Money
R
esidents, businesses, and organizations are encouraged to search the Orange County Clerk's Unclaimed Checks List to see if they are owed money. The current list contains more than 9,100 uncashed checks, with amounts ranging from 1 cent to $10,000. These checks include vendor payments, refunds, restitution, and cash bonds. Many were never cashed because recipients moved without leaving a forwarding address or simply forgot about them. Those who find their name on the list have until September 1, 2026, to submit a claim. Under Florida law, any money not claimed by the deadline will be forfeited and deposited into the Clerk's Fine and Forfeiture Fund. "Our customers deserve to receive the money that is rightly theirs," said Orange County Clerk of Courts Tiffany Moore Russell. "That is why every year we go above and beyond to spread the word about our unclaimed checks list." The Clerk's Office also reminds anyone who is owed restitution from an Orange County court case to notify the office of any address changes to ensure future payments are received without delay. To search the Unclaimed Checks List or submit a claim, visit: www.myorangeclerk.com/News/unclaimed-checks or scan the QR code. If you believe the Clerk's Office is holding a check that belongs to you, follow the instructions on the website to submit your claim before the September 1st deadline.
6 / THE MIDTO W N PR E SS
KNOW THIS! Pine Hills Celebrates Completion of Septic-to-Sewer Project
S
ometimes the most important improvements in a community are the ones you can't see! After nearly two years of construction, Orange County has officially completed its septic-to-sewer conversion project along North Pine Hills Road, marking another important investment in the future of Pine Hills. To celebrate the milestone, the Orange County Mayor's Office, District 6 Commissioner Mike Scott, and Orange County Utilities recently hosted a community celebration recognizing everyone who helped make the project possible.
Image Provided Courtesy of Orange County Government
The ceremony was held in the parking lot of The Kingdom Church, directly across from the project area, where community leaders, county officials, and project partners gathered to commemorate the completion of the work. The program concluded with a symbolic connection of two sewer pipes, representing more than just new infrastructure, it symbolized progress, partnership, and a continued commitment to improving the quality of life for Pine Hills residents.
Orange County Deputy Chief of Staff Carol Burkett, Commissioner Mike Scott, and Andres Salcedo, Deputy Director of Orange County Utilities, each spoke about the importance of investing in communities while protecting the region's natural resources for future generations. The project began in 2024 and focused on replacing aging septic systems with modern sewer connections along Pine Hills Road between Alhambra Drive and Golf Club Parkway. By the time construction wrapped up in June 2026, crews had converted 95 properties, including 65 businesses and 30 homes, replaced 22 manholes, and installed thousands of feet of underground sewer pipe. While many residents may remember the temporary traffic delays and construction equipment, the lasting benefits are far greater. Every property connected to the county sewer system helps reduce nutrients that can make their way into local groundwater, supporting the health of Wekiwa Springs, the Wekiva River, and Central Florida's environment. The completion of this project also reflects the continued public investment taking place throughout Pine Hills. Combined with upcoming pedestrian safety improvements planned by Orange County Public Works, these efforts demonstrate an ongoing commitment to creating a safer, healthier, and more vibrant community for residents, businesses, and visitors alike. As Orange County continues similar septic-to-sewer projects in other neighborhoods, Pine Hills can take pride in reaching this important milestone. Projects like this may not always make headlines, but they strengthen the foundation of a community, improving public health, protecting the environment, and preparing the neighborhood for future growth. It is another reminder that meaningful progress often happens one project at a time, and Pine Hills continues moving forward. T H E M I DTO W N P RESS / 7
Orange County Opens New Innovation Center and Multicultural Senior Center
O
range County residents have two exciting new spaces to learn, connect and grow!
County leaders recently celebrated the grand opening of the new Innovation Center and Multicultural Senior Center, welcoming nearly 700 residents to a ribbon-cutting celebration featuring tours, interactive demonstrations and family-friendly activities. Located on the campus of the Orange County Multicultural Center, the two new facilities are designed to serve residents of all ages by expanding access to technology, education, recreation and community resources. "These two state-of-the-art facilities reflect Orange County's commitment to lifelong learning, innovation and community," said Orange County Mayor Jerry L. Demings. "Whether someone is exploring emerging technologies in the Innovation Center or building friendships and staying active at the Multicultural Senior Center, these spaces will enrich lives and strengthen our community for generations to come." A Place to Create and Innovate The new Innovation Center, scheduled to open to the public this fall, is expected to become a hub for creativity, technology and workforce development. The more than 20,000-squarefoot facility includes a makerspace, robotics lab, computer lab, immersive technology lab, fabric arts studio and collaborative meeting areas. A 300-seat multipurpose room will also host educational programs, workshops and community events. County officials say the center will help residents develop new skills, explore emerging technologies and prepare for careers in today's rapidly changing workforce. "The Innovation Center is an investment in people, possibilities and the future of our community," said Kunal Patel, Orange County Innovation Manager. "As technology continues to evolve, the center will help ensure Orange County remains competitive, resilient and future-ready." Supporting Healthy Aging Just steps away, the new Multicultural Senior Center offers older adults a welcoming place to stay active, socialize and participate in educational and recreational programs. The 17,000-square-foot center features multipurpose rooms, game rooms, meeting spaces and arts and crafts areas. It also serves as the home of Orange County's Office on Aging, making it easier for residents to access programs and services that promote healthy, independent living. With more than 208,000 Orange County residents now age 65 or older, County leaders say the new facility represents an important investment in supporting the community's growing senior population. Together, the Innovation Center and Multicultural Senior Center mark the second phase of development at the Orange County Multicultural Center, one of nine community centers operated by Orange County's Community and Family Services Department. Collectively, those centers serve more than 250,000 residents each year, providing neighborhood-based programs, educational opportunities and resources that help strengthen communities across Orange County. 8 / THE MIDTO W N PR E SS
T H E M I DTO W N P RESS / 9
Pine Hills Community Council Hosts Successful 2026 People's Hob Nob & Straw Poll
R
esidents from across Pine Hills and Greater Orlando gathered at the Central Florida Fairgrounds on Wednesday, July 8, for the Pine Hills Community Council's annual People's Hob Nob & Straw Poll, an evening dedicated to civic engagement, community connections, and informed voting.
The event gave residents a unique opportunity to meet candidates seeking federal, state, county, judicial, and municipal offices while learning more about the issues affecting Pine Hills and the Central Florida community. Throughout the evening, attendees spoke one-on-one with candidates, asked questions, and gained valuable insight before casting their votes in the official community Straw Poll. More than 20 local businesses, nonprofit organizations, neighborhood associations, and community partners also participated, sharing information about the programs and services they provide while strengthening relationships with residents. By the end of the evening, 333 community members had cast ballots in the Straw Poll, demonstrating Pine Hills' continued commitment to civic participation and community involvement. The People's Hob Nob has become one of the Pine Hills Community Council's signature events, creating a welcoming space where residents can engage directly with those seeking public office while connecting with organizations working to improve the quality of life throughout Pine Hills and Greater Orlando. These meaningful conversations continue to strengthen the community and encourage residents to become active participants in shaping the future of their neighborhoods. Special recognition goes to the leadership team that made the event possible: Sandra Fatmi-Hall, First Vice President and Event Chair; Dr. Latanya Nichols, Immediate Past President; and Julien Serrano-O'Neil, MNM, MPA, ACNP, President of the Pine Hills Community Council. Their dedication, along with the support of countless volunteers, sponsors, candidates, and community partners, helped make this year's event another 1 0 / THE MIDTO W N P R E SS outstanding success.
T H E M I DTO W N P R ESS / 1 1
Meds Pharmacy Rx Your Community Discount Pharmacy We accept mostly all insurances and offer FREE home delivery within 24 hours! Fast & Friendly Service Bilingual Staff Free Aspirin & Vitamins* *For Participating Patients
1 2 / THE MIDTO W N P R E SS
2751 N. Hiawassee Rd. Orlando, FL 32818 Phone: 407-770-6077 Fax: 321-206-5127
LOCATED IN THE BRAVO SHOPPING CENTER COMPLEX
ONE CARD, BIG VALUE.
ocls.org/card T H E M I DTO W N P R ESS / 1 3
Health& Wellness
Healthy Lunches Help Local Students Start the School Year Strong
A
s backpacks are packed and alarm clocks are set for another school year, families across Pine Hills and neighboring communities are preparing for the return to the classroom. While new school supplies often get most of the attention, one of the most important tools for student success is something much simpler, a healthy lunch. Whether your child attends an Orange County Public School, a charter school, or a private school, what they eat during the day can have a real impact on how well they learn. Studies continue to show that children who eat nutritious meals are better able to concentrate, remember information, solve problems, and maintain positive moods throughout the school day. A healthy lunch doesn't have to be expensive or complicated. In fact, many nutritious foods are affordable, easy to prepare, and can be packed in just a few minutes before heading out the door. Build a Better Lunchbox
• • •
•
Choose whole grains whenever possible. Whole wheat bread, tortillas, brown rice, oatmeal, and whole-grain crackers provide fiber that helps children stay full and energized throughout the school day. Include lean protein to help growing bodies and active minds. Turkey or chicken sandwiches, peanut butter (where school policies allow), hummus, beans, yogurt, string cheese, or hardboiled eggs are all nutritious choices that travel well in a lunchbox. Don't forget fruits and vegetables. Fresh apples, grapes, oranges, bananas, berries, carrot sticks, cucumber slices, cherry tomatoes, and celery are colorful, nutritious options that require little preparation. Buying produce that's in season or shopping at neighborhood farmers markets can also help families stretch their food budget. For beverages, water remains the best choice, while low-fat milk provides calcium and vitamin D to support healthy bones. Try to limit sugary drinks, sports drinks, and energy drinks, which often contain excess sugar with little nutritional value.
Keep It Kid-Friendly One of the biggest mistakes parents can make is packing foods they hope their children will eat instead of foods they know they will eat. Involve your children in choosing healthy options each week. Let them help pick fruits, vegetables, and sandwich fillings during grocery shopping or while preparing lunches at home. When children have a say in what goes into their lunchbox, they're much more likely to eat it instead of throwing it away. Healthy Habits Begin at Home Back-to-school season is an opportunity for the entire family to establish healthy routines. Eating breakfast before school, drinking plenty of water, getting enough sleep, and enjoying balanced meals all contribute to better learning and overall well-being. As another school year begins, every healthy choice, from packing an apple instead of chips to choosing water instead of soda, helps give our children the fuel they need to learn, grow, and thrive. Sometimes, success in the classroom starts with what's inside the lunchbox. 1 4 / THE MIDTO W N P R E SS
Health& Wellness
Fall Is Here: Why Your Skin Needs a Seasonal Reset 🍂 ByToni Winters - Skincare Specialist
A
s the weather changes, your skincare routine should too! While many people look forward to cooler temperatures, crisp air, and cozy sweaters, they often don’t realize that fall weather can take a toll on their skin.
As temperatures drop and humidity levels decrease, your skin naturally loses moisture more quickly. This can lead to dryness, flakiness, tightness, irritation, and a dull complexion. The products that worked well during the hot, humid summer months may no longer provide the hydration and protection your skin needs. The good news? A few simple adjustments to your skincare routine can help your skin stay healthy, hydrated, and glowing all season long. 1. Exfoliate Weekly Summer can leave behind a buildup of dead skin cells that make your complexion appear dull. Gentle exfoliation once or twice a week helps remove this layer, revealing smoother, brighter skin while allowing your skincare products to absorb more effectively. Tip: Avoid over-exfoliating, as this can damage your skin barrier and increase dryness. 2. Switch to a Richer Moisturizer Lightweight summer lotions may not provide enough hydration during the fall. Consider replacing them with a richer cream containing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, shea butter, or glycerin. These ingredients help replenish moisture and strengthen your skin’s natural protective barrier. 3. Add a Hydrating Serum Layering a hydrating serum underneath your moisturizer gives your skin an extra boost of hydration. Ingredients like hyaluronic acid and vitamin B5 help attract and retain moisture, leaving your skin soft, smooth, and plump. 4. Don’t Skip Sunscreen Just because the weather is cooler doesn’t mean UV rays disappear. Daily sunscreen remains one of the most important steps in preventing premature aging, sunspots, and skin damage all year long. 5. Hydrate From the Inside Out Healthy skin starts from within. Drink plenty of water throughout the day and include foods rich in healthy fats, antioxidants, and vitamins to support your skin’s natural glow. 6. Treat Your Skin to a Seasonal Facial Fall is the perfect time to schedule a professional facial. Treatments that focus on deep hydration, gentle exfoliation,and skin rejuvenation can repair summer damage while preparing your skin for the colder months ahead. Your Fall Glow Starts Now!
Ready to Refresh Your Skin This Fall?
Healthy, radiant skin doesn’t happen by chance—it happens with consistent care. By making a few seasonal adjustments now, you can protect your skin from dryness, maintain its natural glow, and keep it looking its best all season.
Give your skin the care it deserves this season. A customized Fall Glow Facial can restore hydration, gently exfoliate away summer damage, and leave your complexion healthy, radiant, and refreshed.
Want beauty tips, exclusive specials, new product launches, and giveaways delivered right to your inbox? Join our VIP Mailing List today:
Toni Winters
T H E M I DTO W N P R ESS / 1 5
KNOW THIS!
Stop When You See "STOP" T
he new school year is here! As our children begin a new school year, it is a perfect opportunity to remind everyone of the rules when it comes to school buses as they transport our most precious commodity, our children. Especially during the first few weeks of school, as kids navigate new routes to school and become familiar with new surroundings, please remain extra vigilant for school buses and crosswalks! It should go without saying however, please know that the inconvenience of an extra few seconds spent waiting for a stopped school bus is insignificant compared to the loss of a child’s life.
Florida Motor Vehicle Laws require that motorists stop upon approaching any school bus which displays its flashing red lights and has its stop signs extended. Under Florida Statute § 316.172, drivers approaching a stopped school bus displaying a stop signal must come to a complete stop and remain stopped until the signal is withdrawn. The penalty for failure to stop for a school bus is $200, and if a second offense is committed in 5 years, the person’s license will be suspended for up to 1 year. The penalty for passing a school bus on the side that children enter and exit when the school bus displays a stop signal is $400, and if a second offense is committed in 5 years, the person’s license can be suspended for up to 2 years. Did You Know?
Junior Creative
In a 180-day school year, it is estimated that there are almost two million illegal “passes” of Florida school buses, each representing the possibility of tragic injuries or fatalities to students.
School Bus Passing Rules • • •
All drivers moving in either direction on a two-way street must stop for a school bus displaying a stop signal, and must remain stopped until the road is clear of children AND the school bus stop arm is withdrawn. (See diagram, TWO-LANE) On a highway divided by a paved median, all drivers moving in either direction must stop for a school bus displaying a stop signal, and must remain stopped until the road is clear of children AND the school bus stop arm is withdrawn. (See diagram, MULTI-LANE) The only time traffic approaching an oncoming school bus does not need to stop, is if there is a raised barrier such as a concrete divider or at least five feet of unpaved space separating the lanes of traffic. (See diagram, DIVIDED HIGHWAY)
1 6 / THE MIDTO W N P R E SS
OCPS offers meals at no charge for 2026-2027 school year
52 at Park Orange County Public Schools (OCPS) provides free breakfast and lunch to all students through the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) program. Most schools do not require an application; however, newly opened schools or specific non-CEP sites may require families to submit a Meal Benefits Application. How Free Meals Work Eligibility: Nearly all enrolled OCPS students receive breakfast and lunch at no charge without needing to fill out paperwork. New or Non-CEP Schools: Families at newly opened campuses or select alternative sites must apply online via My School Apps to determine eligibility. Meal Structure: Meals follow National School Lunch Program guidelines, offering proteins, grains, vegetables, fruits, and milk (students must select at least three items, including a fruit or vegetable). Additional Benefits Extra Perks: Qualifying for meal benefits can also grant discounts on afterschool programs, camps, and exam fee waivers (SAT, ACT, and college applications). Contact Info: For specific questions, reach out to OCPS Food and Nutrition Services at Meal.Applications@ocps.net
T H E M I DTO W N P R ESS / 1 7
Pine Hills Community Council Hosts Visioning Presentation and Backpack Giveaway
T
he Pine Hills Community Council (PHCC) welcomed residents, community partners, and local organizations to its August General Meeting for an evening focused on both the future of Pine Hills and preparing local students for the upcoming school year.
The meeting featured a community presentation by Tamara Johnson, Executive Director of the Pine Hills Neighborhood Improvement District (PHNID), titled Envisioning the Future of Pine Hills. Residents had the opportunity to review conceptual community vision renderings, ask questions, and provide valuable feedback on ideas that could help shape the future of the Pine Hills community. Following the presentation, PHCC partnered with New Life Ministries World Outreach Center to host its annual Back-to-School Backpack Giveaway, providing hundreds of backpacks and school supplies to local students and families ahead of the new school year. This year's giveaway was made possible through the generosity of the following sponsors: • • •
New Life Ministries World Outreach Center ASAP Fence & Concrete CoolVu of Central Florida (Glass & Surface Solutions)
• • •
The Desire Foundation, Inc. Revitalized Care of Central Florida Senator LaVon Bracy Davis
Thanks to the overwhelming support of these community partners, hundreds of backpacks and educational resources were distributed throughout the evening. In addition to the presentation and giveaway, PHCC provided residents with updates on several upcoming community initiatives, including the World Cleanup Day Adopt-A-Highway Cleanup on September 19, National Night Out activities in October, and preparations for the 6th Annual Pine Hills Parade, scheduled for December 5, 2026. "The strength of Pine Hills has always been found in its people," said PHCC President Julien SerranoO'Neil. "Whether we're planning for our community's future, supporting students as they head back to school, or bringing neighbors together through service and civic engagement, these efforts reflect what is possible when organizations and residents work together." For more information about PHCC including upcoming meetings and volunteer opportunities, visit www.PineHills.info.
1 8 / THE MIDTO W N P R E SS
Pine Hills Safe Neighborhood Partnership Newsletter
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2026 Why Midtown?
Meetings are scheduled for the 2nd Thursday of every month in the Marlin Room Barnett Park 6:00 PM
The name Midtown is more than a geographic reference; it represents the economic and cultural crossroads of West Orange County. The Midtown District connects a collection of neighborhoods whose histories, businesses, and residents influence one another every day. While each community has its own identity, together they create an interconnected district that serves as a gateway between Orlando's urban core and the growing communities to the west. For decades, wealth, commerce, and development have moved across this corridor. From Orlando and Winter Park in the east toward Winter Garden and Windermere in the west. Major transportation corridors, including Old Winter Garden Road, West Colonial Drive, Silver Star Road, and Clarcona-Ocoee Road, channel residents, shoppers, and visitors through the heart of the district, making Midtown one of the region's most important economic connections. The communities that shape Midtown include Pine Hills, Orlo Vista, West Orlando, Clarcona, and Lockhart. Together they represent a diverse mix of residential neighborhoods, commercial centers, historic communities, and emerging destinations. Pine Hills, the district's largest community, serves as an urban gateway to Orlando and Orange County. Lockhart, one of Orange County's oldest settlements, provides an important historical foundation that reminds us how the district has evolved over generations. Much of Midtown experienced significant growth during the 1950s and 1960s, creating neighborhoods filled with mid-century homes that continue to attract families, first-time homebuyers, and residents seeking affordable opportunities close to Orlando's employment centers. That continued investment is helping shape the next chapter of the district's story. Today's Midtown reflects a community in transition. New developments such as H Mart strengthen the area's retail economy. Chinatown continues to expand its role as a cultural and commercial destination. The Orange County Multicultural Center showcases the district's commitment to civic engagement, arts, and lifelong learning. The Orlando Amphitheater and other entertainment venues are adding new energy that attracts visitors from throughout Central Florida. The new Pine Hills LYNX transit center further reinforces Midtown's evolution from a post-war suburban community into an important urban gateway with greater regional connectivity. Each neighborhood contributes something unique to the Midtown For more information, contact: District. Some provide commercial opportunity. Others preserve Ken Dwyer, Chair history, strengthen neighborhoods, celebrate culture, or create civic pride. Together, these communities generate an identity that is kenchrisd2@msn.com stronger than any one neighborhood could achieve alone. That is actually the mission of The Midtown Press - to tell the stories that connect these communities, celebrate their individual contributions, and highlight the opportunities that emerge when they work together. We believe the strength of Midtown comes from synergy-the idea that the combined value, influence, and potential of its neighborhoods are greater than the sum of their individual parts.
Website ocsafeneighborhoods.net/pine-hills Email phsnp.outreach@gmail.com
When Midtown succeeds, every neighborhood benefits! T H E M I DTO W N P R ESS / 1 9
We can help you:
Achieve your financial and housing goals. Scan to learn more or visit us at
HabitatOrlando.org
FREE 6-Week Nutrition Class
Medi Medi SSoul oul
MediSoul is a one-of-a-kind nutrition and diabetes education program that teaches participants how to cook healthy, affordable meals. The courses will be conducted in person and led by a registered dietitian in our beautiful teaching kitchen.
407-872-1333 www.hebninutrition.org
Comprehensive health tips and information. Included health screening for blood pressure, weight and diabetes. Healthy habits from dietitians and other health professionals.
Participants receive FREE weekly produce and incentive items. Scan the QR code or give us a call to register for MediSoul.
NEXT 6-WEEK COURSE DATES October 13 October 20 October 27 November 3 November 10 November 17
Classes are held every Tuesday at 6 PM.
2 0 / THE MIDTO W N P R E SS
Fabiola Gaines Founding Partner & Registered Dietitian Location: TBA
brought to you by:
Winter Park Playhouse Celebrates Newly Renovated Theatre
A
fter 10 months of hard work and anticipation, The Winter Park Playhouse unveiled its newly renovated theatre home at a celebratory ribbon-cutting on July 7th . This special event included cocktails, hors d'oeuvres, live music, a champagne toast and speeches by Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings and Winter Park Mayor Sheila DiCiccio and the theatre co-founder and Executive Director Heather Alexander. City and County Commissioners, community leaders and other dignitaries were in attendance. This event offered the first look at the renovated building, including a new theatre with expanded capacity and Broadway seats, a new lobby and restrooms, a new cabaret space and a host of structural upgrades. In 2024, The City of Winter Park and non-profit Winter Park Playhouse partnered to apply for an $8 million Tourist Development Tax (TDT) grant to acquire, enlarge, remodel and improve the theatre’s building at 711 N. Orange Avenue in Winter Park. The grant was officially awarded on October 29, 2024, and construction began in November 2025. This generous TDT grant from Orange County ensures the survival of a beloved cultural cornerstone that attracts visitors from around the world and makes a $2.3 million-dollar economic impact on the region. Founded in 2002, The Winter Park Playhouse is a professional musical theater dedicated to building community and enhancing the quality of life for Central Florida residents and visitors through accessible, inclusive, uplifting, and inspiring professional musical theatre experiences. The newly renovated theatre opens just in time to kick off its new 2026 - 2027 Series of Professional Musicals in August 2026. Quick Facts:
• • • • •
The new theater can now seat 171 patrons ( up from 123 in the old theatre) The organization operates six Mainstage Musicals annually with each production running 4 weeks (Thurs - Sun 2pm matinee performances and Fri-Sat evening performances at 7:30 pm) A monthly Spotlight Cabaret is hosted in the new Santos-Compel Cabaret Lounge ( weekday nights Wed/Thur 1 hour show featuring a professional vocalist and piano accompaniment) The organization provides Title l elementary schools with FREE arts programming during the school year and FREE entertainment to seniors who cannot leave their residential facilities. The newly renovated Winter Park Playhouse allows for more people to attend all of our musical programming!
T H E M I DTO W N P R ESS / 2 1
Care for All Begins With Research for All 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 discovery 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 clinical trials. Each study moves us closer to better treatments, greater understanding 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 working 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 options 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.
Why consider joining a clinical trial? 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
2 2 / THE MIDTO W N P R E SS
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 future where healing is stronger, care is more personalized and breakthroughs are within reach for all.
Imagine a future without obesity. At the AdventHealth Research Institute, our world-class experts are making new medical discoveries every day through more than 700 active research studies each year. From pioneering exercise research to developing new methods of weight loss, we’re redefining care for obesity. And it’s all guided by leading-edge science and a whole-person care philosophy designed to bring hope, innovation and healing to life.
Be part of the breakthrough at LeadersInResearch.com.
T H E M I DTO W N P R ESS / 2 3
Discover
ST. ANDREW
CATHOLIC SCHOOL A Pre-K4 through 8th grade school.
Where students are Soaring Academically, Creatively, and Spiritually! Faith-based values Strong academics Small class sizes Leadership and service opportunities Free breakfast, lunch & after-school snack Certified Florida teachers SCHOLARSHIPS ARE AVAILABLE! ALL families qualify. We help you apply.
Schedule your tour today! Save the date! Our Catholic Schools Week Open House is Sunday, January 31, 2027, 12:30-2 p.m.
(407) 295-4230 www.standrewcatholicschool.org 877 Hastings Drive, Orlando, FL
5212 SILVER STAR RD. ORLANDO, FL 32818 www.HardeesOrlando.com
2 4 / THE MIDTO W N P R E SS