Cover Photo
quite like a
For longtime Pine Hills residents, this pool is instantly recognizable. But for those who are new to the community, this look is located at the Wayne Densch YMCA on North Hastings Street. The YMCA's outdoor pool has been a favorite gathering place for neigborhood families for years.
The little paper with the big picture!
Oneof my wife's favorite phrases is "just like that." It comes from one of her favorite TV shows, and because she says it so often around the house, it has now become part of my vocabulary as well.
The phrase refers to the passage of time and how quickly it seems to move. In this case, "just like that" captures the disbelief that we are officially six months into 2026. In some ways, it feels like the year just began, yet in only a few short months we'll be gathering around tables with family for Thanksgiving dinner and untangling Christmas lights. Hey, time - can you please slow down so I can catch my breath? (LOL) If only it were that simple.
Ever since I was a kid, I have loved the summer months. This is the time of year when many Americans take vacations while children are out of school. I will admit, that when my children were younger, trying to figure out which summer camp to enroll them in was a little nerve-racking. With both of my kids now adults, I am glad I no longer have to navigate that challenge, and my sincerest best wishes go out to the parents who are adjusting schedules and racing from one side of town to the other to get their kids where they need to be.
There are other things I enjoy about summer as well. With no school buses on the road, traffic, at least around school zones, is a little lighter. And let's not forget the three holidays that help define the season: The Kickoff, Memorial Day; The Climax, Independence Day; and The Wind-Down, Labor Day. All of this is to say that I hope you can find an opportunity this summer to slow down, relax, and enjoy the season despite the rapid pace of life.
One of my goals at the beginning of this year was to read more books. Honestly, I have failed miserably at that goal. However, a friend recently recommended a book called Eat Your Ice Cream: Six Simple Rules for a Long and Healthy Life by Ezekiel J. Emanuel that I plan to start reading during an upcoming vacation that I am very much looking forward to.
As many of you know, in addition to serving as Publisher of The Midtown Press, I also operate an ice cream shop called SMILE Ice Cream (yes, that is intentional self-promotion). So there is a bit of irony in being recommended a book that features ice cream in the title.
According to Emanuel, wellness does not have to be complicated or focused on extreme longevity. Instead, it can be built around enjoyable habits that still leave room for simple pleasures, including eating ice cream. That idea resonates with me. Life can be busy, and for many people, overwhelming at times. The book appears to open the door to practical life principles while also encouraging a better understanding of mental health.
I thoroughly enjoyed putting this issue together because it highlights several topics that are important for all of us to be aware of this time of year. The picture of the pool on the cover ties directly into our article on pool safety found on Page 19. Speaking of swimming, don't forget about the FREE swimming lessons offered through Children's Safety Village.
Our friends at the Orange County Library have another event-filled calendar for both children and adults (see their ad on Page 13). June is also Men's Health Month, and we need our men to stay healthy. Be sure to check out the article and recipe (Page 14) from my friends at Hebni Nutrition (more self-promotion), and consider registering for one of our free upcoming classes.
June also marks the beginning of the Atlantic Hurricane season. It is never too early to prepare in case a storm heads our way. When it comes to hurricanes, preparation is key. See the story on Page 6 for tips to help with your preparation.
At the risk of sounding like a broken record, I want to extend a heartfelt thank-you to our advertisers. I encourage our readers to support these businesses because, quite simply, without them there would be no Midtown Press.
In love and health, - Glen
June1st marks the official start of the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season, and whether you're new to Florida or a longtime resident, emergency officials say now is the time to prepare.
The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 through November 30, with activity typically increasing throughout the summer before reaching its peak during August, September, and October. Historically, the season experiences two periods of heightened activity, one in mid-September and another in midOctober, before winding down.
Forecasters are predicting a below-average Atlantic hurricane season in 2026, due largely to the influence of a developing El Niño weather pattern. El Niño often creates stronger upper-level winds across the Atlantic basin, increasing wind shear that can disrupt tropical storm development and reduce the number of storms that form.
NOAA's 2026 Outlook calls for a 55% chance of a below-normal season and is forecasting 8–14 named storms, 3–6 hurricanes and 1–3 major hurricanes. While those numbers suggest a relatively quiet year, meteorologists emphasize that seasonal forecasts do not determine local impacts. It only takes one storm making landfall to create a major disaster.
Although El Niño may help limit storm formation, Atlantic Ocean temperatures remain warmer than average, providing fuel for any storms that do develop. That's why emergency management officials encourage residents to focus less on seasonal predictions and more on personal preparedness. Preparing now helps avoid last-minute rushes, empty store shelves, and unnecessary stress when a storm threatens.
Experts recommend assembling enough supplies to sustain your household for several days following a storm. Your emergency kit should include:
Drinking water
Nonperishable food
Flashlights and extra batteries
Battery-powered or hand-crank radio
First-aid supplies
Prescription medications
Phone chargers and backup power banks
Cash
Important documents stored in a waterproof container
Special supplies for children, older adults, and pets
Florida residents now have an added incentive to prepare early. The state's disaster-preparedness sales tax exemptions have been made permanent, allowing many hurricane-related preparedness items to be purchased tax-free throughout the year. Many grocery staples, bottled water, and first-aid supplies were already exempt from sales tax. Eligible tax-free items include:
Batteries
Portable generators
Smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms
Fire extinguishers
Gas cans
Waterproof tarps
Tie-down kits and ground anchors
Insect repellent
Forecasters will continue monitoring ocean temperatures, atmospheric conditions, and storm activity throughout the season, updating their outlooks as conditions change. But regardless of what the forecasts predict, emergency officials share the same message every year, prepare before a storm is on the horizon.
Hurricane season is inevitable. Being unprepared doesn't have to be. A few simple steps today can help protect your home, safeguard your family, and provide peace of mind throughout the months ahead.
Orange County residents will once again have the opportunity to take a closer look at how their local government operates. County officials announced that the Mayor’s Citizen Academy will return for a Fall 2026 session, scheduled to run from August 5 through October 7, 2026.
The 10-week program, held on Wednesday evenings from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., offers participants an inside look at the functions, services, and daily operations of Orange County Government. Sessions will take place at various County facilities and will include guided tours, interactive demonstrations, and discussions with County leaders.
County officials describe the academy as an opportunity for residents to gain a deeper understanding of how local government decisions are made and how public services are delivered. The program is designed to strengthen civic engagement and foster stronger connections between residents and County leadership.
The application window for the Fall 2026 session will open at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, June 2, 2026 Space is limited, and participants will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. County leaders encourage interested residents to apply early.
To be eligible, applicants must be at least 18 years old and reside in Orange County. Participants must attend a minimum of seven sessions to graduate from the program.
The Mayor’s Citizen Academy has historically drawn residents interested in learning more about public service, community planning, and the inner workings of County departments. Officials say they expect strong interest again this year.
To learn more and apply, scan the QR Code.
On May 6, the Pine Hills Neighborhood Improvement District (NID) hosted two important community engagement sessions aimed at shaping the future of Pine Hills. The events, titled "Our Wall Street: Envisioning the Future of Pine Hills," were held at two locations to maximize participation and ensure residents had multiple opportunities to share their ideas and vision for the community.
The first session took place at the Orange County Multicultural Center from 10 a.m. to noon, while the second was held later that evening at the Pine Hills Community Center from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Together, the sessions welcomed residents from across the community to learn about proposed concepts and provide valuable feedback on what they want to see in Pine Hills moving forward.
Featuring conceptual renderings, interactive displays, maps, Post-It notes, and community voting pins, the events encouraged residents to engage directly with County planners and project representatives. Participants were invited to share their thoughts on potential improvements, including new businesses, infrastructure enhancements, public safety initiatives, beautification projects, and other community investments designed to create a stronger and more vibrant Pine Hills
Tamara Johnson, Executive Director of the Pine Hills Neighborhood Improvement District, emphasized the importance of community participation throughout the planning process. "Every pin and every idea shared today will help guide the plan," Johnson said.
Orange County Commissioner Michael Scott who also attended the sessions and encouraged residents to actively participate in shaping the community's future. "The things that you see other places you like, we can try to bring that to the community, but we need to hear that from you all," Scott told attendees.
Community visioning events such as these play a critical role in guiding redevelopment efforts and ensuring that future investments reflect the priorities of the people who live and work in Pine Hills. While some residents expressed concerns regarding project timelines, funding sources, and the potential for gentrification, many attendees voiced optimism about the opportunities ahead.
Overall, residents expressed excitement about the prospect of improved infrastructure, enhanced public safety, expanded business development opportunities, and projects that could attract new jobs and economic growth to the community
As planning efforts continue, community leaders hope the feedback gathered during the Our Wall Street sessions will help create a shared vision that preserves the character of Pine Hills while building a stronger future for generations to come
The Pine Hills Community Council's May 2026 General Meeting, held on May 5 at the Orange County Multicultural Center, offered residents a unique opportunity to engage directly with candidates vying to become Orange County's next mayor.
The evening's featured event was an Orange County Mayoral Candidate Forum, bringing together candidates Randy Fust, Chris Messina, former Congresswoman Stephanie Murphy, Orange County Clerk of Courts Tiffany Moore Russell, and Orange County Commissioner Mayra Uribe.
Community members arrived eager to hear firsthand how each candidate plans to address the issues shaping Orange County's future. Residents from across the county came prepared with thoughtful questions on public safety, economic development, education, infrastructure, affordable housing, youth opportunities, and the community's overall direction.
The forum created a valuable platform for voters to connect directly with the candidates, allowing residents to gain deeper insight into each candidate's vision, priorities, and plans for Orange County. Throughout the evening, audience members openly shared their concerns, discussed their experiences, and emphasized the importance of leadership that listens and responds to the community's needs.
What made the event especially impactful was the strong level of community engagement. The room was filled with passionate residents committed to staying informed and actively participating in the democratic process. From longtime
community advocates to first-time voters, attendees demonstrated a shared desire for transparency, accountability, and meaningful progress throughout Orange County.
The Pine Hills Community Council once again demonstrated its commitment to empowering residents by creating opportunities for important conversations and civic engagement. Events such as this forum reinforce the idea that meaningful change begins when communities come together, remain informed, and take an active role in shaping their future.
As the mayoral race continues, the Orange County Mayoral Candidate Forum served as more than just a political event. It became a powerful example of community unity, civic pride, and the collective determination of residents working to move Orange County forward.
The evening was made even more special as the Pine Hills Community Council celebrated a remarkable milestone, 50 years as an incorporated organization in the State of Florida and 54 years of dedicated service to the Pine Hills community. The occasion was further highlighted by special recognition from Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost, honoring the Council's longstanding commitment to community advocacy, engagement, and service.
As Pine Hills Community Council leaders, members, and residents reflected on both the evening's discussions and the organization's rich history, the celebration served as a reminder of the vital role community organizations play in strengthening neighborhoods and empowering future generations.
is Men's Health Month! It is time for our men to get focused on improving their health. Summer is here and we're wearing less and making plans to head out to the nearest beach or pool. However, if your weight is an issue, you might be more reluctant to do so. Weight gain does not happen overnight.
Twenty years ago portion sizes were smaller, and calories were less. What happened? Portions increased which means calories have increased as well. We also shop at places that give us better pricing for foods. So-called “big box” stores encourage us to buy more and eat more!
Portion control is a task we all must master. Keep portion sizes consistent with your activity level. As your activity level decreases you need to match your food intake to your activity level. It is no surprise that we are all more active while we were younger. If you continue to eat as is, as you get older and become more sedentary, you will gain weight and be at risk for nutrition-related diseases such as diabetes and hypertension.
This is a critical step in learning to manage your weight. Always read food labels and learn how many serving sizes are in a food package, can, or bag. If a serving size says “4” then that means that four servings are in that package. To determine how many calories, you have consumed, you must multiply how many servings are in the package to get your true calories. For example, if you like ice cream and the package contains 4 servings with each serving containing 270 calories, you would have to multiply 4 (servings) x 270 (calories) to get the total amount of calories. In the case of the ice cream, it would be 1,080 calories. For some, that may be the amount may equal half the amount of food that should be consumed in one day.
1. Set goals that you can achieve. Gradual changes work.
2. Buddy up with your family members to create healthy behaviors in the home
3. Seek advice from a dietitian.
4. Exercise regularly. Walk as often as you can and make it a brisk walk, not a slow stroll. If you have bad knees, consider swimming as it has less impact on your joints.
5. Get medical check-ups once a year. If you are uninsured or under insured seek help from a local health clinic like Orange Blossom Family Health Center or 26Health.
6. Discourage poor eating habits with your children. Children will mimic the habits of the adults at home.
Roniece Weaver is a Founding Partner and Director of Agency Operations for Hebni Nutrition Consultants, a creator of the original Soul Food Pyramid and the Soul Food Plate, culturally sensitive food educational tools. Mrs. Weaver provides educational seminars to many health care organizations across the country. She earned a B.S. in Food Science/Human Nutrition from the University of Florida, and received a Master of Science in Health Care Administration from the University of Saint Francis.
PREP 5 MIN
COOK 20 MIN
SERVES 4-5
▢ 2 cans black beans, drained and rinsed
▢ 2 cans corn, drained and rinsed
▢ 6-8 oz. feta cheese
▢ 2 chopped green onions
▢ 1/4 tsp garlic powder
▢ 1/2 cup olive oil
▢ 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
▢ 2 tbsp sugar
▢ salt and pepper to taste
1. Mix all beans, corn, feta, and green onion in a bowl.
2. Mix all dressing ingredients in a bowl and add black bean mix.
3. Store in a refrigerator, covered for 2-3 days.
4. Serve with corn or tortilla chips.
Yard of the Quarter February-April 2026
Pine Hills Seniors, Inc. is an award-winning 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization. Our mission is to "Empower Our Seniors to Live Active, Healthy Lives."
The active group, consisting of over 100 seniors, meets on Thursdays at 9 AM, September through June, at the Orange County Multi-Cultural Center located at 7149 W. Colonial Dr., Orlando, 32818.
Founded in 2007, the purpose of the organization is to enable seniors in Pine Hills and surrounding Orange County communities to stay ‘Active, Independent, and Involved’ by facilitating access to health, wellness, and other quality-of-lifeenhancing programs and activities.
Pine Hills Seniors holds multiple awards for excellence. We provide elder-friendly programs and activities. Members contribute time and talent on a volunteer basis. Pine Hills Seniors operates on donations from the community and philanthropic partners. We are always seeking support from new partners. Donations of any amount are welcome. For more information, email us at
Orange County has officially opened a new state-of-the-art Mosquito Control Facility at 6330 Silver Star Road (near Powers Rd.) here in the Pine Hills community, replacing the previous location on Conroy Road.
The new facility is designed to strengthen the County's efforts to protect residents from mosquito-borne illnesses through enhanced surveillance, research, and response capabilities.
Key Features
• 360-kilowatt rooftop solar array to reduce energy costs and save taxpayer dollars.
• Expanded administrative and operational space.
• Improved maintenance bays and a larger warehouse for equipment and supplies.
• A larger laboratory for mosquito surveillance and disease testing.
• A climate-controlled insectary that allows mosquitoes to be bred and raised year-round for research and monitoring purposes.
According to Orange County Mayor Jerry L. Demings, the investment in modern infrastructure will improve the County's ability to respond to the needs of a growing population while safeguarding public health.
Steve Harrison, Orange County Mosquito Control Manager, emphasized that proactive mosquito surveillance and prevention efforts help identify high-risk areas early, providing significant public health benefits and reducing the need for costly responses to disease outbreaks.
The facility was celebrated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on May 11th, marking a major milestone in Orange County's ongoing commitment to public health and quality of life.
As temperatures rise and families head to pools, lakes, beaches, and water parks across Central Florida, water safety experts are reminding residents that swimming is more than a recreational activity, it is a life-saving skill. Drowning remains one of the leading causes of accidental death for children, while adults account for the majority of drowning fatalities in Florida each year.
“Swimming lessons are for everybody,” said John Lewis, Aquatics Director with the YMCA of Central Florida. “Many people think swim lessons are only for young children or beginners, but we teach everyone from infants to seniors, regardless of their experience level.”
Each year, July is recognized nationally as Drowning Prevention Month, a time dedicated to increasing awareness about water-related injuries and deaths. The YMCA will participate in several educational initiatives throughout the summer, including observances tied to World Drowning Prevention Day on July 25th. The organization also hosts the annual World’s Largest Swim Lesson on June 25th, a global event designed to promote water safety awareness while providing free instruction and educational resources to families.
Lewis emphasized that drowning prevention requires multiple layers of protection, including swimming skills, supervision, barriers around pools, and water safety education. “Every drowning is a tragedy because it is often preventable,” he said.
While children are often the focus of water safety campaigns, Lewis noted that many adults have never learned how to swim or lack confidence in the water. The YMCA offers swimming lessons for individuals as young as six months old through adulthood. One of its most popular programs is Adult Learn-to-Swim, which helps participants develop confidence, learn basic survival skills, and improve overall water competency.
Many adults enroll in lessons later in life because they want to safely enjoy time with their children or grandchildren. “We see adults who have avoided the water their entire lives,” Lewis said. “Then they decide they want to be able to enjoy the pool, the beach, or family vacations without fear.”
Lewis acknowledged that access to swimming lessons and aquatic programs remains a challenge in some underserved communities. Factors such as transportation, affordability, limited access to pools, and generational fears surrounding water can all contribute to lower participation rates.
The YMCA continues working to expand opportunities through locations such as the Wayne Densch YMCA Family Center and the Dr. P. Phillips YMCA at the Rosen Aquatic & Fitness Center, providing programs that reflect and serve the diverse communities around them.
Unlike many forms of exercise, swimming is low-impact and easy on the joints while providing a full-body workout. It can be especially beneficial for older adults, individuals recovering from injuries, and those seeking an alternative to high-impact activities such as running. “Swimming is one of the few activities you can do from infancy through your senior years,” Lewis said. “It provides exercise, confidence, recreation, and potentially life-saving skills.”
Families interested in swimming lessons, water safety programs, or aquatic fitness classes are encouraged to contact their local YMCA branch for information on available programs, scholarships, and community events.
“Whether you're six months old or sixty years old,” he said, “it's never too late to learn how to swim.”
A great time was had by all at our June Picnic & Mingle program. On a beautiful June afternoon, community members gathered under a pavilion at Barnett Park to enjoy fellowship, share updates, and strengthen connections among residents, neighborhood leaders, and local organizations.
The event was hosted by Chairman Ken Dwyer, who welcomed attendees and introduced a diverse group of speakers representing organizations dedicated to improving the Pine Hills community and surrounding neighborhoods. Presentations and updates were provided by:
Brian Harris, President of the Orlo Vista Safe Neighborhood Partnership
Bertina Bush, Former President of the Pine Hills Safe Neighborhood Partnership
Daniel Kilponen and Lauren Prekop with Orange County Government
Julien Serrano-O’Neil, President, Pine Hills Community Council
Glen Providence, Publisher, The Midtown Press
Each speaker introduced themselves and shared updates on current initiatives, upcoming projects, and opportunities for collaboration. The discussions highlighted the importance of community engagement and partnership as organizations continue working together to address local needs and improve residents' quality of life.
Beyond the updates, the gathering provided an opportunity for neighbors and community leaders to connect in a relaxed setting, exchange ideas, and explore new ways to support one another. Events such as the Picnic & Mingle help strengthen relationships across Pine Hills and neighboring communities while fostering a shared vision for the future.
The afternoon served as another reminder that meaningful progress is often built nt to working together for the
Be the Breakthrough. Change What’s Possible.
Every medical breakthrough begins with courage — th e courage to ask questions, to explore new possibil ities, 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 ensur e they are safe and effective. This vital process — called clinical res earch — 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 conduct s hundreds of clinical trials each year. Behind eve ry study is a team of dedicated researchers, physicians and volunteers wo rking together to transform the future of health ca re.
Your participation can make a lasting difference.
People who join clinical trials come from all walks of life. Their willingness to serve helps research ers better understand diseases, refine treatments, and improve care for g enerations 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, r esearch must reflect everyone. Age, ethnicity, gend er and life experiences can all influence how treatments work. By welcoming volunteers from diverse backgrounds, w e ensure that discoveries are inclusive, equitable and effective for the com munities 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
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 particip ate 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.
