Photo Cedit: Office of Orange County Mayor Jerry L. Demings
KNOW THIS! Emerging Journalists Fellowship
Central Florida Public Media announces the return of its Emerging Journalists Fellowship, a unique one-year opportunity for aspiring journalists to immerse themselves in the dynamic world of news media, which begins August 4, 2025. Following a successful launch in 2024, the program continues to support the organization’s goal of developing the next generation of journalists. To be included in the initial review of applicants, candidates should apply by April 4, 2025.
The Emerging Journalists Fellowship not only aims to bridge the gap between college and gaining the needed experience to start a career but also gives those who have been out of school for a while the avenue to a new career.
The Fellowship is a full-time position running from August 2025 through July 2026. While most work will be done between the hours of 8-5 p.m. Monday through Friday, the fellow will need to be available for work outside of those hours and on weekends when needed. The ideal applicant is passionate about telling stories amplifying voices of people in traditionally underserved communities, understands the importance of journalistic ethics and is passionate about a career in public media.
Fellows will be immersed in news operations and involved in story production from pitch to completion. They will be assigned daily general news stories and will engage in long-form feature reporting, focusing on significant community issues and subjects.
“We are committed to training the next generation of journalists who will continue to uphold the values of integrity, accuracy and community engagement,” said Judith Smelser, president and general manager of Central Florida Public Media. “The Emerging Journalists Fellowship is an investment in the future of journalism, providing young professionals with the tools and experience needed to excel in our ever-evolving field.”
Central Florida Public Media, previously named WMFE, is a nonprofit, public media news organization based in Orlando, Fla., dedicated to delivering trustworthy, independent journalism to nine counties across Central Florida. The organization operates 90.7, metro Orlando’s primary provider of NPR programming; 90.7-2 HD Classical; and 89.5 WMFV, public radio for The Villages, Leesburg and The Golden Triangle.
Those interested in applying can scan the QR Code to learn more.
KNOW THIS!
Move Over Month
Did you know that January is Move Over Month here in Florida. The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) reminds all motorists to obey Florida’s Move Over Law. This law helps to protect those who protect us while they provide essential services in a dangerous environment – the side of the road.
Florida law requires you to move over a lane — when you can safely do so — for stopped law enforcement, emergency, sanitation, utility service vehicles, tow trucks or wreckers, maintenance or construction vehicles with displaying warning lights, and any disabled vehicle on the side of the road. If you can’t move over — or when on a two-lane road — slow to a speed that is 20 mph less than the posted speed limit.
FLHSMV educates new and young drivers on the Move Over Act with information in the driver handbook, even including Move Over questions on the driver exam. Statistically the most likely to violate the Move Over Act is drivers aged 20-40. This age group is less likely to move over or slow down when they approach emergency, service or disabled vehicles.
In 2022, there were 170 crashes and more than 14,000 citations issued for motorists failing to move over in Florida.
When a driver fails to move over for stopped or disabled vehicles on the roadside, they put the safety of law enforcement, first responders, service professionals AND the motorists they assist gravely at risk.
Florida law requires motorists to move over a lane when they can safely do so for the following:
• Stopped law enforcement.
• Emergency responders.
• Sanitation and utility service vehicles.
• Tow trucks or wreckers.
• Maintenance or construction vehicles with displayed warning lights without advanced signs or channelizing devices.
• Disabled vehicles.
Tidbits
Heart-Healthy Habits, Black History Month and Create Video Games this February at OCLS
February is Heart Month and the Orange County Library System (OCLS) is proud to partner with the American Heart Association and HCA Florida Healthcare in the Libraries with Heart program. With validated blood pressure monitors and cuffs and educational materials in both English and Spanish, our partnership is empowering people to monitor their own blood pressure, increasing access to blood pressure monitors and educating communities about heart-healthy habits.
Throughout February, trained library staff present the American Heart Association and HCA Florida Healthcare’s blood pressure monitor programs. Community members can attend any one of the 11 programs at their nearest branch and learn simple, efficient ways to monitor blood pressure at home and get hands-on experience with the monitors and cuffs .
OCLS card holders can check out blood pressure monitoring kits free of charge all year long at 10 library locations across Orange County: Chickasaw, Eatonville, Hiawassee, Orlando Public Library, South Creek, South Trail, Southwest, Washington Park, Windermere and Winter Garden.
Celebrate Black History Month this February with OCLS programs and events recognizing the achievements of Black artists, authors and activists. Join local luminaries for performances of poetry, story and song at the African American Read-In on Sunday, February 16, at 2 p.m . Honor Black artists like Romare Bearden, Alma Thomas and Laura Wheeler by learning about their work and creating a piece inspired by their art. For all Black History Month programs, visit ocls.org/black-history-month .
Unleash your creativity at this year’s Orlando Game Jam and create a video game in just one weekend. Join the information session Thursday, February 27, from 4-10 p.m. to learn the secret theme and special challenges, form a team and plan how to create a video game over the week. Games will be showcased for play and public voting at the Orlando Gaming Expo on Sunday, March 2 . For rules and registration, visit ocls.org/gamejam .
pine hills construction project updates
LYNX Pine Hills Transfer Center
LYNX began construction on the Pine Hills Bus Transfer Center in October 2023. This project will have LYNX build an 8-bay bus transfer center with a custom canopy. In addition, a drivers breakroom, drivers restrooms, customer service counter and security office will be present. As part of the project, a full access signal will be installed on Belco Drive. To accomodate the changes, Belco Drive will be reconstructed, and the Pine Hills Trail will be extended through the site.
Orange County Mosquito Control Facility
Located at 6330 Silver Star Rd., the new facility currently under construction will include a main building with approximately 11,200 sq.ft. of administrative office space, 15,200 sq.f.t of Warehouse space, and a 1,200 sq.ft Chemical Storage Building. Additional site features include new parking, a dumpster enclosure, a mechanical and electrical equipment yard, fish tanks and chicken coops.
Senior Focus
Pine Hills Seniors: Staying Active & Involved! We Share Because we Care!
Abrave and dedicated group of seniors represented the Pine Hill Seniors group in the City of Ocoee 2025 Martin Luther King, Jr. Day parade. Members braved the cold January day to help celebrate the MLK Holiday by remembering the accomplishments of African-American leaders past and present.
Our members are never shy to put their talent on display to entertain the group! PHS members were treated to a tribute performance of the Motwown Records charttopping group, The Supremes! The American girl group formed in Detroit, Michigan in 1959 featured Florence Ballard, Mary Wilson, Betty McGlown and of course, Diana Ross!
Enrolling Now for Fall 2025!
MediSoul es un programa de educación sobre nutrición y diabetes único en su clase, que le enseña a los participantes como cocinar comidas sanas y asequibles. El curso sera en personas y dirigido por una dietista en nuestra hermosa cocina de enseñanza.
Información y consejos saludables
Hábitos saludables de dietistas y otros profesional es de la salud
Los participantes reciben productos semanales grati s y artículos de incentivo.
Escanea el código QR o llámanos para registrarte a MediSoul
SIGUIENTES FECHAS DEL CURSO DE 6 SEMANAS March 27th
April 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th, May 1st
Jueves - 11am
Ask the Expert |
Fabiola Gaines, RD LD
Spring Into Health: Eating Fresh and Nutritious
As the flowers bloom and temperatures rise, spring in Florida brings a bounty of fresh produce and a renewed opportunity to focus on healthy eating. With an abundance of locally grown fruits and vegetables available, now is the perfect time to refresh your diet with seasonal, nutritious choices.
Spring’s Best Produce in Florida
Florida’s warm climate provides a rich harvest of fresh produce throughout spring. Some of the best seasonal options include:
• Strawberries – Peak season runs through March and April, making them a perfect sweet and vitamin-packed snack.
• Blueberries – A great source of antioxidants, Florida blueberries hit their prime in April and May
• Tomatoes – Juicy and versatile, tomatoes thrive in Florida’s spring sunshine.
• Zucchini and Yellow Squash – Light, nutrient-rich, and ideal for grilling or roasting.
• Sweet Corn – Harvested in late spring, Florida-grown corn adds natural sweetness to any meal.
• Avocados – Creamy and rich in healthy fats, Florida avocados are a springtime staple.
Healthy Eating Tips for Spring
• Shop Local – Visit farmers’ markets to get the freshest ingredients while supporting local growers.
• Lighten Up Your Meals – Swap heavier winter dishes for fresh salads, grilled veggies, and lean proteins.
• Stay Hydrated – As temperatures rise, drinking plenty of water and consuming hydrating foods like cucumbers and citrus fruits can help keep you refreshed.
• Go Green – Leafy greens such as spinach, kale, and arugula are in peak season, making them a nutritious addition to any meal.
• Try Seasonal Smoothies – Blend fresh berries, bananas, and coconut water for a delicious and nutrient-packed drink.
Bringing Spring to Your Plate
Spring is a time of renewal, and what better way to embrace the season than by nourishing your body with the freshest ingredients our local growers has to offer? Whether you’re exploring a farmers’ market, trying a new recipe, or simply swapping processed foods for whole, natural ones, eating healthy this spring is a flavorful and rewarding experience.
So, step outside, soak up the sunshine, and enjoy all the delicious, nutritious foods spring harvest has to offer!
Fabiola Gaines is a founding partner of Hebni Nutrition Consultants, Inc. based in Orlando and currently serves as the Director of Nutrition Services. Ms. Gaines has coauthored several wellness books. “The New Soul Food Cookbook for People with Diabetes”, “Slim Down Sister”, “Month of Meals,” Family Style Soul Food, Healthy Soul Food, and their newest 3rd edition book with the American Diabetes Association.
Kale Salad
Ingredients
• ½ cup pecans
• 8 ounces kale
• ½ cup dried cranberries (or dried cherries)
• 1 medium Granny Smith apple
• 2 ounces soft goat cheese, chilled
Dressing
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 ½ tablespoons apple cider vinegar (or white wine vinegar)
• 1 tablespoon smooth Dijon mustard
• 1 ½ teaspoons honey or maple syrup
• Sea salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
Preparation
1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and spread the pecans on a baking tray. Toast them until lightly golden and fragrant, about 5 to 10 minutes, tossing them once or twice to make sure they bake evenly. Remove the tray from the oven and set them aside to cool.
2. Pull the kale leaves off from the tough stems and discard the stems. Use a chef’s knife to chop the kale into small, bite-sized pieces. Transfer the kale to a big salad bowl. Sprinkle a small pinch of sea salt over the kale and massage the leaves with your hands by lightly scrunching big handfuls at a time, until the leaves are darker in color and fragrant.
3. Coarsely chop the pecans and cranberries (or cherries) and add them to the bowl. Chop the apple into small, bite-sized pieces and add it to the bowl as well. Crumble the goat cheese over the top.
4. In a small bowl, whisk the dressing ingredients together and pour the dressing over the salad. Toss until the salad is evenly coated with dressing. Serve immediately, or for even better flavor, let the salad marinate in the dressing for 10 to 20 minutes beforehand.
Why Celebrate Black History Month?
As February arrives, communities across the country and right here in Florida come together to honor Black History Month, a time dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the invaluable contributions of Black individuals to our state’s history and culture. In a state as diverse as Florida, where African-American heritage is deeply woven into the fabric of society, this month serves as a crucial period of reflection, education, and appreciation
Why is it importand to celebrate Black History Month? To put it simply, Black history is American history . Black History Month is more than just a time for remembrance—it is an opportunity to highlight the achievements and struggles of Black leaders, activists, artists, and everyday citizens who have shaped Florida and the nation.
The celebration was first recognized in 1926 by Carter G. Woodson as Negro History Week which led to Black History Month was created to extend and deepen the study on African American history, all year long. From literary giant Zora Neale Hurston, (who lived in Eatonville as a child) who worked to preserve Black folklore and culture, to civil rights pioneer Mary McLeod Bethune, whose impact on education remains significant today, Florida’s Black history is rich and inspiring.
However, many stories of Black Floridians remain overlooked or forgotten. Events like the Ocoee and Rosewood Massacres —tragic and painful events in the state’s past—remind us why it is essential to preserve and share these histories. Celebrating Black History Month ensures that these stories are acknowledged, fostering a deeper understanding of the resilience and contributions of Black communities in Florida.
By celebrating Black History Month, we not only honor the past but also inspire future generations to carry forward the legacy of those who came before them. Recognizing the struggles and achievements of Black Floridians fosters a more inclusive and equitable society—one where history is not just remembered, but actively valued. In a time when unity and understanding are more important than ever, Black History Month remains a vital tradition in Florida’s ongoing journey toward progress and equality.
PostScript
As the clock struck midnight and we stepped into the year 2025, there was a sense of renewal and optimism. The new year represents a fresh start, a chance to set new goals, embrace positive changes, and cultivate hope for a brighter future. Across our community, people are making goals aimed at selfimprovement, personal growth, and community well-being.
New Year’s resolutions have long been a tradition, a way for individuals to set intentions for the months ahead. Some vow to focus on health and fitness, others on career ambitions, relationships, or financial stability. The key to achieving these goals lies not just in setting them, but in maintaining persistence and flexibility in the journey toward self-betterment.
HSome strategies used to help maintain New Year's resolutions incude setting realistic goals, tracking your progress, being sure to celebrate the small wins and remaining positive no matter what
Beyond personal resolutions, the new year also invites communities to reflect on collective aspirations. Many organizations and local leaders are committing to initiatives that promote social progress, economic development, and environmental sustainability. With 2025 unfolding, I encourage us to come together to support each other’s dreams and create a more prosperous, united community.
" Hope is a force!powerful
Hope is a powerful force, and as we embark on this new chapter, it is essential to embrace it fully. Whether through small acts of kindness, renewed dedication to personal growth, or larger societal efforts, the spirit of renewal fuels the possibility of success and happiness in the year ahead.
As we welcome 2025 with open hearts and ambitious minds, let us remember that the path to prosperity begins with belief, action, and the unwavering hope for a better tomorrow. Cheers to a year of new beginnings, opportunities, and endless possibilities!
-The Editors
