Guest Editorial: A Time of Thanksgiving

Posted on November 22, 2013 by OrlandoCommunityNews

Editor’s Note: In light of  the Thanksgiving holiday and our views about it – that it’s a time to express thanks and to give – Orlando Community News decided to share a message from Yolanda Pitchford, executive director of the Wayne Densch YMCA Family Center, here in Pine Hills. We THANK her for allowing us to publish her thoughts. This is the first of occasional OCN “Guest Editorials.”

A Time of Thanksgiving

This month, throughout social media you may see people partaking in 30 days of Thanksgiving.  I find these messages to be uplifting, as everyday I see people expressing why they are grateful.

Last night (Nov. 17), I had the opportunity to enjoy the Festival of Trees [at the Orlando Museum of Art] with some of our YMCA donors.  I went home feeling very grateful and thankful to be a part of such a wonderful organization and the opportunity to lead the Wayne Densch YMCA.

I wanted to express my gratitude for all that you do to support the Wayne Densch YMCA. Without the donations and support of all of our volunteers, our YMCA would not thrive.

Someone asked me if they wanted to give to the Wayne Densch YMCA this holiday season is there a way to give online.  I was reminded that one of the board members had also asked me this question a few weeks ago, so I wanted to share this message with all of you.

Often times, during the holiday season, people are looking for a way to give a charitable contribution.  If you or someone you know is interested in donating to the Wayne Densch YMCA, you can by clicking on the link below and following the instructions.

At the “Y”, we see potential in small kids, big dreamers and strong communities. As the nation’s leading non-profit, the Y uses your gift to make a meaningful impact on a child, adult, family, and/or senior right in your own neighborhood.

Donate today to help us give back.

https://ymcacentralflorida.com/give/

Thank you.

(Yolanda can be reached at the Wayne Densch YMCA Family Center: 407-299-4350.)

© Orlando Community News, 2013
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Pine Hills Heroes: We’re Looking for a Few Good Men, Women

Posted on November 15, 2013 by OrlandoCommunityNews

Hello Orlando Community News readers!
Do you know someone in our community who works to help others, mostly for free, and you want to help acknowledge them, to give them flowers while they live and can enjoy them?  Well, here is an opportunity for you to do just that – Orlando Community News (OCN) online is looking for its next Pine Hills Hero!

A feature on OCN online, “Pine Hills Heroes” shines a spotlight on people working tirelessly in the trenches to build up the Pine Hills community – often with little or no pay. It is an occasional honor here on OCN, with a goal of celebrating those who have done great things in recent years for the people in the community, while motivating others to get involved.

Here’s what we need you to do:
Think of that “someone,” send an email to: trish.martin@att.net with the person’s name, their organization or affiliation (if there is one) and why you think they should be selected OCN’s next Pine Hills Hero. You can put “Pine Hills Hero” in the subject line of your email. Also include your contact information so that we can follow up with you, if need be.

The deadline is Friday, Nov. 29.

Pine Hills Heroes get community-wide recognition, recognition here on OCN, which reaches people worldwide, as well receive a gift from OCN.

If you do not know anyone, please simply share this information with someone else who may know someone who deserves the recognition.

Thank you and God bless.

© Orlando Community News, 2013
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Restoration of Rights, Sealing and Expungement

Posted on November 6, 2013 by OrlandoCommunityNews

Workshop Saturday, Nov. 9 in Orlando

It’s common knowledge that finding work or even a place to stay is not easy for a person with a criminal record, even after serving the time and changing their lifestyle.

Getting help from others to start over may not be the easiest thing to do either.restorationofrightsworkshop

However, on this Saturday, Nov. 9, Gary and Victoria Siplin will join a team of experts in sharing information about restoring civil rights and expungements.

The two are sponsoring a free rights restoration workshop from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the New Covenant Baptist Church, 2210 S. Rio Grande Ave., Orlando, FL 32805.

The workshop is open to the public and anyone needing help with restoring their rights are encouraged to attend, especially since there have been changes made to state clemency rules under Governor Rick Scott’s tenure.

This is an opportunity for folks with records to find out their current status and get the help they need to attempt to restore their rights. It’s a process, Victoria Siplin said.  Participants will be able to talk with parole and FDLE officials, along with a judge who can help with completing the required paperwork. She said the workshop is being held in response to daily calls and visits the couple gets to their law office, on the issue.

For details on the workshop, call 407-802-2400.

© Orlando Community News, 2013
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Eatonville Voters To Decide on Term Limits for Mayor Today, Nov. 5

Posted on November 5, 2013 by OrlandoCommunityNews

Registered voters in the Town of Eatonville will decide whether to limit the terms of their mayor to two consecutive terms, among other things, in a special election today, Tuesday, November 5.

The special election ballot basically asks voters to select Yes or No to one question which has four parts (Should the Eatonville Charter be amended):
◾By providing a strong-mayor form of government, by limiting the term of office to two consecutive terms
◾By having the Town Clerk, Town Attorney and Town Auditor as appointed charter officers
◾By providing single member districts
◾By increasing the town’s debt capacity

The special election today will be held at the Eatonville Town Hall, 307 E. Kennedy Boulevard, Eatonville, FL 32751. Polls are open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., according to town officials.

Eatonville’s current Mayor Bruce Mount is serving his second term. He won his first term in March 2009, edging out long-term Mayor Anthony Grant, who had served for 14 years.

Currently, there are five members of the town council (including Mayor) and those members are elected at large, by voters throughout the town. Approval of this charter amendment would set up single member districts, with voters from specified districts electing council members.

The Town of Eatonville, just north of Orlando, has a population of about 2,000 people and is the oldest African American municipality in America.

Eatonville voters with questions or concerns can call their Town Clerk at 407-623-8900.

In other election news:

Apopka voters will vote in a Special Election on December 3 and the deadline to register to vote at that time is today, Nov. 4.  Also, the deadline to request an absentee ballot to mailed for that special election is Nov. 27 at 5 p.m. at Apopka City Hall.

© Orlando Community News, 2013
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Can We All Get Along: Rally Against Crime October 26

Posted on October 19, 2013 by OrlandoCommunityNews

“Can We All Get Along?”
Rodney King, rest his soul, asked that question of the country during the L.A. Riots and now organizers of a popular annual rally against crime will ask the same question to promote peace in the Pine Hills community on Saturday, October 26.

That’s when the Kingdom Network Empowering Communities (K.N.E.C.) group will sponsor its 6th Annual Stop The Killing, Start Living, Choose Peace rally. The rally will be held from 1 to 5 p.m. at the Silver Pine Village Shopping Plaza at the corner of Pine Hills and Silver Star roads.

Organizers say the free rally will feature live gospel music and dance, food, a Lost Treasures Ceremony (on behalf of victims of violence in the area); a community roundtable, games for children and more.

As in the past, organizers are inviting everyone who lives, works and plays in the Pine Hills area, to join them in standing against crime in the community.

Anyone interested in having a booth, providing supplies or food or getting details, contact the K.N.E.C. group at http://www.knecus.com or call Bishop A.L. Helligar at 407-721-4817 or Pastor Michael Kimbrough at 407-234-9619.

K.N.E.C is a faith-based organization made up of a consortium of churches and concerned citizens in the inner cities of Orlando working together to support our community. The group’s aim is to organize a community to find solutions to the epidemic of violence, according to the group’s website.

Orlando Community News, 2013

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Pine Hills Performing Arts Center Second Annual Gala a Hit

Posted on October 17, 2013 by OrlandoCommunityNews

crowdatphpacgalajojodanceratphpacgalaWith a crowd of close to 200 people on hand for the Pine Hills Performing Arts Center’s 2nd Annual Gala, organizers of the event  chalked it up as a success – a signal that people want to see arts in the Pine Hills community.

The evening gala was held Oct. 12 at the Soiree Event and Convention Center on Silver Star Road.

Highlights of the dinner gala included a special presentation by singer Jacqueline Jones, Orange County proclamation presented to the center’s Executive Director Michael Kimbrough, as well as live performances by two winners from the center’s recent “Best of the Best” Talent Search – Jemima Poitevien (composer-pianist) and Brooklyn Clarke (dancer). meandambassadorelamatgala

Internationally known Ambassador Harriet Elam-Thomas, keynote speaker, gave an inspiring speech on people making a difference, being a catalyst for change…like Kimbrough. People, like those in the audience who have a love for the arts, can help by giving to the center, she said. After the program, the band played and people hit the dance floor.

bertinaandhusbandatphpacgalaIn case you missed the gala but would like to help bring more arts to Pine Hills, contact Kimbrough at the PHPAC, 5600 W. Colonial Drive. Phone: 407-914-8846.

© Orlando Community News, 2013
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Habitat for Humanity Celebrates World Habitat Day, Completion of Stag Horn Villas

Posted on October 3, 2013 by OrlandoCommunityNews
After five years of volunteers, fundraisers and construction, Habitat for Humanity of Greater Orlando Area will celebrate World Habitat Day with the completion of Stag Horn Villas, its first multi-family community, organizers say. The event will take place on October 7 from 5:30 – 7 p.m. at the Stag Horn Villas community off Silver Star Road. See details here on Orlando Community News under Neighbors Helping Neighbors tab and see how you can get involved in their efforts.

After five years of volunteers, fundraisers and construction, Habitat for Humanity of Greater Orlando Area will celebrate World Habitat Day with the completion of Stag Horn Villas, its first multi-family community, organizers say. The event will take place on October 7 from 5:30 – 7 p.m. at the Stag Horn Villas community off Silver Star Road. See details here on Orlando Community News under the Neighbors Helping Neighbors tab and see how you can get involved in their efforts. (OCN, 2013)

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Opinion: People Don’t Want or Need Your Shotguns

Posted on September 29, 2013 by OrlandoCommunityNews

Opinion:

September 29, 2013 (Pine Hills, FL) — I am on my Soapbox again.

Trish MartinI want to get something straight: While law enforcement throughout the country (Orange County included) sponsor gun buy backs or similar programs to take guns off the streets, a group new to Florida plans to GIVE SHOTGUNS AWAY to residents of a north Orange County neighborhood this week. Free or discounted shotguns or guns, according to recent news reports. Say What?

The organizers said in news reports giving residents shotguns would stop crime in the area. Huh?

This idea is just as crazy as the idea of giving teachers guns for their classrooms. It wouldn’t make classrooms full of children safer and it would not make residents safer either. What it would make is a MESS – accidents waiting to happen.

While reports do not say exactly why the neighborhood was targeted but several long-time residents said in reports they don’t see a need for having shotguns or guns.

The group plans to expand its “gun gift” program throughout the Orlando area. Folk would have to pass a safety course and federal background check to get one of the free or discounted weapons.

Ok, hasn’t most of the recent string of mass shootings throughout the country been perpetrated by folk diagnosed with some sort of mental illness? Correct me, if I am wrong. I haven’t seen anything about mental evaluations in light of this “gun gift” program.

And listen, this idea itself sounds crazy. Bet someone involved in the group is also a gun shop owner with ulterior motives.

If people FELT A NEED FOR A GUN AND WANTED TO GET ONE, TRUST ME, THEY WOULD.

How about investing in some educational programs, tutoring or mentoring, or better yet, invest in some JOBS or economic development in areas you consider high crime areas?

In addition to resident refusing the offer, a notice worded something like this should be placed at the entrance of every Orange County neighborhood: “NO, THANK YOU. YOU CAN KEEP YOUR SHOTGUNS. WE DON’T WANT OR NEED THEM. NOW, PLEASE LEAVE OUR PRIVATE PROPERTY.”

© Orlando Community News, 2013
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Hair, Fashion, Makeup and Entertainment

Posted on September 23, 2013 by OrlandoCommunityNews

girlsinafricanattireatMania

Still talking about the 2013 Hair, Fashion, Makeup & Entertainment Mania held in Orlando on September 15. Kudos to Keesha Rivers and her team at Fla’Vore Productions, which sponsored the event. In addition to showcasing talent, the organization does great work in the community. Read more at: “REACHING BACK, LAUNCHING OUT” here on Orlando Community News/Neighbors Helping Neighbors. 

All pictures by Orlando-based photographer Jennifer Slak.

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The Scoop on Annual “Mania” Event September 15 in Orlando

Posted on September 7, 2013 by OrlandoCommunityNews

pjmodel2 pjandyoungladymodel

Hair, Fashion, Makeup and Entertainment Mania set for Sunday, September 15

Orlando, FL — “PJ” is 17. But talk with him for a few minutes about fashion and you will quickly discover his much-higher-than-expected level of maturity. PJ,  a.k.a. Princeton James Studstill I, is soft-spoken but sure with his choice of words. Direct with his eye contact. Firm with his handshake.

The Apopka High School senior is one of the lead model coaches for Fla’Vore Productions, which is sponsoring its annual Hair, Fashion, Makeup and Entertainment Mania event on Sunday, September 15. The “Mania” event, one of two major annual shows for Fla’vore, will take place 6 p.m. at the Majestic Event Center on John Young Parkway. The other show is an All Male Fashion Show which normally benefits a local charity.

People can expect a full house, plus tons of creativity at Mania,  PJ said during a recent interview after rehearsal. “This show usually sells 500 plus [tickets]…It’s going to be very exciting. There’s going to be a lot of diverse things going on…a lot of talent. If you are interested in any of that, this is the show for you.”

It didn’t take him long to sprout off some of the highlights: Modeling and dance troops coming from everywhere to be a part of the show. A celebrity makeup team transforming faces from scene to scene as well as an appearance of a celebrity artist for an upcoming reality Bravo TV show (Coleen Otero). Many hair salons with stylists displaying their talent and one of Fla’vore’s faithful hair designers, PatrickDidMyHair, will present an African attire look.

Shoes can make or break an outfit

As PJ talked, I wondered how did someone so young become so passionate about fashion and modeling.

Seems he’s always had a love of fashion in him. Family members believe it comes from one of his grandfathers. Years before joining the Fla’Vore modeling troop, PJ was acting in theater, plays at school and church. He modeled for a local agency, landing photo shoots for books, magazines and advertisements. He said he stopped acting to pursue modeling because it fit him more.

PJ hooked up with Fla’Vore’s Keesha Rivers through a mutual friend whom he originally connected with on Facebook. Nearly three years later, he’s talking up this huge “Mania” event in which he gets to teach children and adults (ages 4 to over 40) how to walk the runway and present fashion.

He said through Fla’Vore, he has become more confident.

“Growing up, I was never the one anyone thought would be in this position,” PJ said. “I did play sports…growing up I had very bad, severe eczema. It showed on my face and arms. You would never think anyone would want to take a picture of me with that type of skin condition. It’s only by God…my grandma, she spoke it, said, ‘You’ll grow out of it. I would always say no, I won’t. I never thought I would be accepted.”

He was accepted by the Fla’Vore family and he did grow out of the skin condition.

“It [Fla’Vore] gives you a feeling of being together, that you have a place you can come and feel accepted. That’s how I feel,” PJ said.

Mature, right?

Catch him at work, along with the other very talented group of people involved with Mania.

As of this date, tickets are still available for Mania at Ohsoojazzy Hair Studio at The Hair Action Plaza, Booth 21. Address: 5320 North Pine Hills Road, Orlando, Florida 32808. Phone: (407) 766-2987.

© Orlando Community News, 2013
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