Press THE Midtown
The little paper with the big picture!
EDITOR’S CHAIR
Whilethe popular holiday tune claims another season is the “most wonderful time of the year,” many parents would argue otherwise. For many parents, this is it! Summer is winding down, and the longawaited return to school is finally here. Sure, the kids might not be quite as thrilled, but I’ve always seen this season as an opportunity to share helpful, timely information to ease the back-to-school transition.
In this issue, you’ll find resources to help your family navigate the new school year, from our annual reminder on school bus safety (Page 8) and tips on school readiness (Page 10), to an insightful piece by my new friend, Dr. Candace Finley on the effects of artificial food dyes. My hope is that this issue becomes a year-round reference—something you keep on your coffee table or bookshelf long after the first bell rings.
You’ll also notice a special nod to the backto-school season right on our cover. A quick shoutout to some of the schools I pass regularly while delivering the paper: Mollie Ray Elementary, Pine Hills Elementary, Robinswood Middle, St. Andrews Catholic School, and, of course, Evans High School. And while we distribute to many schools, these have become familiar stops on my route.
Personally, the back-to-school season always brings back fond memories. As a child, I eagerly awaited the first day, excited to show off my new outfit, reconnect with friends, and meet new classmates. As a parent, that excitement was joined by a mix of emotions: joy for my
kids starting fresh, and stress from school supply shopping which somehow seemed to grow more expensive each year! But we always managed. With that in mind, don’t miss our article on budget-friendly backto-school tips on Page 22.
I know I say this every year, but once the 4th of July passes, the pace of life seems to hit fast forward. Suddenly, pumpkin spice is back at Dunkin’, football training camps kick off, and before you know it, kids are picking out their first-day outfits. Even though it takes Florida a little longer to feel like Fall, this season has always been my favorite. Life slows down a touch, and we begin looking ahead to meaningful moments like Thanksgiving, and yes, Christmas (even if it feels early to say that out loud!). But trust me, it won’t be long before you hear Mariah Carey belting “All I Want for Christmas Is You” on the radio and in every store.
So, what are you looking forward to this Fall? For me and my family, it means birthdays galore (mine included) which gives us even more reasons to celebrate. And honestly, with so much heaviness in the news lately, I’ll take every opportunity to find joy and gratitude.
Here’s a fresh season, a new school year, and finding moments to celebrate, big and small.
In love and light!
KNOW THIS!
Orange
County
to Strengthens Support
for Emerald Villas Phase Three
In a unanimous decision at the July 15th meeting, the Orange County Board of County Commissioners approved an Impact Fee Waiver totaling $44,533 to support the construction of Emerald Villas Phase Three, marking the latest step in the County’s commitment to expanding affordable housing in the Pine Hills community.
This fee waiver adds to an earlier $7 million investment in Phase Three, comprised of $2.5 million from Orange County’s Affordable Housing Trust Fund and $4.5 million allocated from the federal American Rescue Plan Act.
Emerald Villas, a comprehensive three-phase housing development, will provide a total of 450 affordable units once complete. Phase One, created 264 units for families, and Phase Two, which delivered 96 units for seniors, have already been completed.
Phase Three, currently under construction at the corner of Via Maior and El Primo Way, will include 90 units designed to serve low-income families. Of those, 23 units are designated for very low-income households earning 50% or less of the Area Median Income (AMI), with the remaining units targeting families earning up to 60% of AMI. The mix will include 31 one-bedroom, 41 two-bedroom, and 18 three-bedroom apartments.
The final phase of Emerald Villas is expected to be completed and ready for occupancy by the end of the year, continuing the County’s push to address housing affordability and improve quality of life for Pine Hills residents.
Does the Orange County Clerk of Courts Have Money for You?
Many people might not be aware however, the Orange County Clerk’s Office may have some unclaimed money for you! Readers can search the unclaimed checks list at www.myorangeclerk. com . If you see your name on the list, you have until September 1, 2025 to claim your money.
The checks listed are those that were mailed, but never cashed; perhaps because the intended recipient moved away and did not leave a forwarding address or put the check away and forgot about it.
The list of more than 7,500 checks includes uncashed vendor payments, refunds, restitution, and cash bonds from as low as 3 cents and up to $8,450 . Whether you are an individual, business, or an organization, make sure to view the unclaimed checks list.
“Our customers deserve to receive the money that is rightly theirs,” said 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 reminds customers who have restitution owed to them on a case in Orange County to make sure they keep our office updated on any address changes to ensure they receive any payments due to them.
Please keep in mind, if you do not collect your money by September 1 st 2025, Section 116.21 of Florida Statutes says it will be forfeited and deposited into the Clerk’s Fine and Forfeiture Fund .
To search the unclaimed checks list, scan the QR Code . If you have searched the list and believe the Clerk's Office is holding a check for which you have a claim, follow the instructions on the website to submit a claim.
KNOW THIS!
Stop When You See "STOP"
The new school year is here! As we 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. The penalty for failure to stop for a school bus is $265, and the penalty for passing a school bus on the side that children enter and exit when the school bus displays a stop signal is $465. Additionally, you will accrue four points on your driver license and be required to complete a basic Driver Improvement Course upon conviction.
School Bus Passing Rules
Did You Know?
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.
• 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)
KNOW THIS!
Stop When You See "STOP"
School Bus Safety Tips for Parents and Children
• Arrive at the bus stop with about five minutes before the bus is scheduled to arrive.
• At bus stops, children should wait in a safe place away from the road. Never sit on the roadway or curb while waiting for your bus.
• Make sure your children know their bus driver’s name and bus number.
• Tell children to never speak to strangers at the bus stop or get into the car with a stranger. Children should tell parents, the bus driver and a teacher at school if a stranger tries to talk to them or pick them up.
• Children should never walk behind a bus and should stay away from bus wheels at all times. When the bus stops, children should wait for the driver’s signal that it is safe to cross the road or board the bus.
• Children should look both ways before crossing the street- look left, right and left again. Tell them to make eye contact to make sure the bus driver can see them as they cross the street.
• On the bus, children should remain seated at all times and keep the aisle clear. Tell children not to put their head, hands or arms out the window.
• Remind children to stop talking and remain silent when the bus comes to a railroad crossing so the driver can hear if a train is approaching.
• Children should avoid any loud or disruptive behavior that could distract the bus driver from safely operating the bus.
SCHOOL BUS CRASH HISTORY FROM 2012 - 2022
ORANGE COUNTY
Back-to-School Season : Routines, ScreenTime,
and Support for Families
Asthe summer heat begins to yield to the promise of cooler mornings, the back-to-school buzz is growing across neighborhoods from Winter Park to right here in Pine Hills. For many families in Orlando, the transition to a new school year isn’t just about new backpacks, fresh sneakers, and sharpened pencils, it’s about re-establishing routines, fostering healthier habits, and unlocking the supports that help children thrive.
Re‑Introducing Routines: The Foundation of School Success
Local educators and child development specialists emphasize that establishing clear, consistent routines is one of the most powerful tools to ease the first-day jitters and set children up for success. To ensure a successful back-to-school transition, prioritize establishing routines, fostering healthy habits, and promoting open communication. This involves creating consistent sleep schedules, encouraging physical activity and nutritious meals, and if you haven't already, scheduling back-to-school checkups. Additionally, setting up a dedicated study space, organizing school supplies, and utilizing time management tools including event calendars, can significantly contribute to academic success.
Parents are encouraged to begin resetting bedtime and morning routines at least two weeks before school begins. Suggested steps include:
• Setting a consistent bedtime and wake time, including weekends, to ease the transition.
• Mapping out the day the night before—things like laying out clothes, prepping lunches, and organizing backpacks. A visual checklist can work wonders for young children.
• Incorporating a bedtime wind-down, such as reading or light conversation, to help children reset sleep rhythms that may have lapsed over the summer.
Tackling Screen Time: A Balanced Approach
With laptops, tablets, and smartphones a constant presence in modern households, many pediatricians caution that unmonitored screen time even for entertainment, can undercut learning readiness and disrupt sleep cycles.
Many child experts recommend parents and guardians establish clear “screen-free” zones and times, especially during the evenings. A gradual adjustment like turning off screens at least one hour before bedtime can strengthen sleep and improve attention in the morning. Additional tips include implementing screen-free mornings a few times a week or tech curfews in the evening, where screens are turned off after dinner and replaced with screen-free activities such as board games, arts & crafts, or getting outside.
Mental Health Matters
With growing awareness around children’s mental health, Orlando school officials are encouraging early conversations and awareness around emotional well-being as part of the back-to-school routine.
Starting the school year with social-emotional check-ins can help families and schools spot signs of stress early. For many students, especially those entering new grade levels or environments, anxious feelings are typical, but manageable with support.
Some helpful approaches include:
• Emotional temperature checks: A simple “How are you feeling today—from 1 (not great) to 10 (awesome)?” gives kids a safe way to share if something feels off.
• Open-ended questions, such as “What was the best part of today?” or “Did anything worry you?”, can prompt conversation and connection.
• Using school resources, like speaking to guidance counselors or social workers, when it seems a child is struggling. These professionals can refer families to additional supports when needed.
A Neighborhood of Support
Orlando’s community network—from public libraries to community centers—offers many supportive programs for families. For instance, Orange County Public Library branches host free after-school reading sessions and quiet study spots with Wi-Fi, staffed by volunteers happy to help younger learners.
Look into after school programs like Boys & Girls Clubs, tutoring or even local churches and other faith-based organizations often run back-to-school drives, supplying families with school supplies, backpacks, and even information about tutoring or counseling that may not be widely known.
For families in our neighborhood, the new school year marks a transition not just in the calendar, but in daily habits, and new routines. The start of school isn’t just a date on the calendar. It’s a renewed opportunity for families to connect, reset, and grow together.
Turkey & Cheese Pinwheels
Ingredients
1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
4 (10-inch) flour tortillas
8 ounces thinly sliced turkey breast
1/2 cup shredded carrots
1/2 cup chopped cucumber
1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
1. In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and garlic powder. Mix until smooth and well combined.
2. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over each of the tortillas.
3. Layer the sliced turkey, shredded carrots, chopped cucumber, and chopped red bell pepper over the cream cheese layer on each tortilla.
4. Tightly roll up each tortilla, like a burrito.
5. Wrap each rolled tortilla tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the pinwheels to set.
6. Remove the plastic wrap and slice each tortilla into 1-inch-thick pinwheels.
7. Arrange the pinwheels on a platter and serve. Enjoy!
Tips & Variations
• Get Creative with Veggies: Feel free to substitute or add other vegetables like spinach, lettuce, or avocado.
• Cheese Please: Sprinkle some shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, etc.) over the veggies before rolling.
• Make Ahead: The pinwheels can be made a day ahead of time. Just keep them wrapped tightly in the refrigerator until ready to slice and serve.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve the pinwheels as an appetizer, snack, or light lunch. They're also great for picnics and potlucks.
Senior Focus
Pine Hills Seniors: Staying Active & Involved!
Pine Hills Seniors Return In September!
The Pine Hills Seniors program is back in action starting September 11, with a planning committee meeting scheduled for September 4. Each Thursday, the center welcomes 90 to 100+ seniors for a day filled with fun, fellowship, and wellness.
A typical day kicks off at 9 AM with a morning exercise session, followed by an opening prayer and a rotating schedule of activities including bingo, movies, crafts, painting, and special guest presentations. Participants enjoy breakfast and lunch, generously provided by Seniors First, ensuring no one leaves hungry. For special events, the group often enjoys catered meals
New seniors are always welcome—no registration required. The program operates with an open-door policy in a public facility dedicated to serving the senior community.
A highlight this fall includes a special session on Parkinson’s disease by Dr. Boris on September 11th presented by K2 Medical Research.
Come join the fun, stay active, and connect with your community! We Share Because we Care!
Recently, the Pine Hills Seniors were also featured in the Orange County TV Magazine as part of the Age-Friendly Orange County Action Plan.
Pine Hills Community Council Backs “Henry 3” Map in Orange County Redistricting Process
AsOrange County undergoes a major redistricting effort to adjust for population growth and the expansion from six to eight commission districts, community leaders in Pine Hills are throwing their support behind one proposed map the group submitted: Henry 3.
Dr. Latanya Nichols, the current President of the Pine Hills Community Council, says the map is rooted in years of community planning and public input. “This isn’t a map we just drew up on a whim,” Nichols said in a recent phone interview. “It’s built on what residents, business owners, and stakeholders said they wanted—restoration, redevelopment, and economic growth in Pine Hills.”
The Henry 3 map is one of seven submitted redistricting maps currently under consideration by the Orange County Redistricting Advisory Board. All three are available for public viewing on the Orange County Redistricting website.
Nichols emphasized that the Henry 3 map keeps the majority of Pine Hills within District 6, preserving its historical and cultural identity. While a small portion of the community would fall into District 8 to ensure an equitable population balance, Nichols said the team behind Henry 3 was intentional about keeping Pine Hills as unified as possible.
“Our main focus was fairness and equity, but also keeping our community intact,” she said. “The other maps—when you look at them—you’ll see how significantly Pine Hills is split. That’s a real concern for us.”
The Pine Hills Community Council, consisting of nine board members, has formally supported the Henry 3 map. Nichols confirmed it is the only map backed by a majority of the council.
Nichols is scheduled to present the map to the Redistricting Advisory Board during a public meeting. At that meeting, the board will vote on which maps will move forward in the process. According to Nichols, some maps have already been approved in recent weeks, and decisions are being made on a rolling basis.
Once the Advisory Board narrows down its selections, the approved maps will be presented for public review and feedback, likely in September. A final decision will then be made based on community input and a public vote.
“This map preserves our history,” Nichols added. “It reflects the planning we’ve been doing for years and allows the Pine Hills community to move forward with one voice.”
As Pine Hills residents continue to track the redistricting process, Nichols encouraged community members to visit the county’s redistricting website, view the proposed maps, and get informed about upcoming votes.
“This is about making sure our voices are heard,” she said. “We want a map that represents the will and vision of the people.”
For more information on the Orange County redistricing process including the other proposed maps, please visit www.ocfl.net/OpenGovernment/Redistricting2025.aspx.
Pine Hills Safe Neighborhood Partnership Newsletter
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2025
The opening date for the new LYNX Transfer Center located in Pine Hills is set. Service for the highly anticipated project will begin Sunday, August 10, 2025!
The new facility will serve Links 9, 37, 43, 44, 48, 49, 125, 301, 302, 303, NeighborLink 813, and ACCESS LYNX.
Some of the highlights of the project include:
5.3 million pounds of concrete poured to support buses and the passenger platform.
More than 4,100 feet of wiring to power the facility and lighting.
32,590-plus pounds of steel used, including the canopy. New traffic signal and intersection modifications at Belco Drive and Silver Star Road for safe bus travel. The project was funded by the Federal Transit Administration, Florida Department of Transportation and Orange County Government.
An official grand opening celebration event is being planned for a future date.
Meetings are scheduled for the 2nd Thursday of every month in the Marlin Room Barnett Park 6:00 PM
SAVING MONEY ON BACK TO SCHOOL AND BEYOND!
As the school bells get ready to ring across Orlando, Families in our community are tightening their budgets and preparing for the back-to-school rush. With a little planning and some community know-how, you can send your kids off to class without draining your wallet.
1. Take Advantage of Local School Supply Drives
Each year, many organizations host back-to-school giveaways— offering everything from backpacks and notebooks to haircuts and uniforms. Keep an eye on community bulletin boards and social media groups for event dates.
2. Shop Smart (and Local)
Hit up budget-friendly retailers right in the neighborhood. Look for price-match guarantees, store-brand supplies, and clearance sections. The Florida Tax-Free Weekend (begins on Friday, August 1 and ends on Sunday, August 31 ) is the perfect time to stock up on school essentials like clothes, shoes, and supplies without paying sales tax.
3. Stretch Lunch and Snack Dollars
Packing lunches is cheaper (and often healthier). Pine Hills families can save by buying in bulk and prepping meals for the week. Look for local food pantries or food distribution events, which are often hosted by faith-based organizations or the Second Harvest Food Bank. Orange County Public Schools (OCPS) students will receive free meals during the 2025-2026 school year. This includes breakfast and lunch, and families do not need to fill out an application for these free meals.
4. Free Educational and After-School Resources
The Hiawassee Branch Library is a hidden gem, offering free tutoring, reading programs, and computer access. Pine Hills Neighborhood Center and local Boys & Girls Clubs also provide afterschool programs at low or no cost—giving kids a safe, enriching space while parents are at work.
Tip from a Pine Hills Parent:
"Each year, I team up with a few other moms in our apartment complex to bulk-buy supplies, then split the cost. We save a ton— and the kids get exactly what they need!"
Back-to-school season doesn’t have to be stressful. With a bit of creativity and help from our Pine Hills community, we can make this school year a success.
