01.23.20 West Orange Times & Observer by Orange Observer

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VOLUME 87, NO. 4

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Garden Theatre to debut 2020 musical. 10. THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2020

Warriors best Wolverines West Orange High dominated its crosstown rival, 71-58, Wednesday, Jan. 15. PAGE 20.

Oakland hears demand opportunity study results The data yielded gives officials information to move forward with bringing the right development to Oakland. AMY QUESINBERRY COMMUNITY EDITOR

The Oakland Town Commission has received the results of a study conducted by a real-estate advisory firm, and the market analysis will help guide the town when it makes decisions on economic development. Compspring was tasked with sizing the market in Oakland and discovering the demand opportunities in the town over the next five years for rental, for-sale, office, retail and hotel. A fiscal impact analysis of certain land uses was provided, SEE ANALYSIS PAGE 5

YOUR TOWN LEARN ABOUT NATURE PRESERVE Here’s your chance to see the Oakland Nature Preserve up close and learn all about its programs, its animals and its conservation efforts. The preserve is hosting its annual open house from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 25, at 747 Machete Trail, Oakland. Admission is free, and the day will include guided tours of the preserve, a LEGO build, crafts, animal interactions and presentations. A portion of donations will go toward scholarships for education programs. For information, call (407) 9050054.

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Joseph Singletary read the “I Have A Dream” speech at Winter Garden’s Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Celebration. Right: Caleb Gordon and Genesis Ortiz marched with the Jamaican American Association at the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Unity Parade and Celebration in Ocoee.

MADE BY HISTORY Winter Garden and Ocoee residents took to the streets to honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with annual parades and events. PHOTOS ON PAGE 4.

Bringing a dream to life Gabe and Krystle Lynch are fulfilling their dream of opening a new church in Winter Garden. AMY QUESINBERRY COMMUNITY EDITOR

Josephine C. Photography

Gabe and Krystle Lynch are holding the first Dream Alive Church service Saturday, Jan. 25.

Gabe Lynch awoke from a dream one morning with a message: “dream alive.” “I kept hearing the (words), ‘dream alive, dream alive,’ and trying to figure it out, praying to God,

asking, ‘What is dream alive?’” Lynch said. “When He broke it down, I thought, ‘That sounds like a great book.’” So last May, he wrote a book titled “Your Dream Alive.” But he kept hearing the words SEE DREAM PAGE 4

YOUR CALENDAR

FRIDAY, JAN. 24

FRIDAY NIGHT JAZZ 6 to 8:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 24, at the Oakland Town Center, Tubb Street. Enjoy a relaxing evening of live music with special guests The Justin Mendez Quartet. Presented by HAPCO Music Foundation. (407) 6561117. ‘VIOLET’ 7:30 p.m. starting Friday, Jan. 24, and continuing on select dates until Feb. 9, at the Garden Theatre, 160 W. Plant St., Winter Garden. Watch as Violet travels cross-country seeking treatment for her facial disfigurement. Based on “The Ugliest Pilgrim,” by Doris Betts. Tickets range from $25 to $37. For more, visit gardentheatre.org.

FINANCING AVAILABLE

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2020

SATURDAY, JAN. 25

MONDAY, JAN. 27

FEELING GOOD 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 25, at the Winter Garden Branch Library, 805 E. Plant St., Winter Garden. Learn some chill skills with self-calming techniques, tips and tricks. Recommended for lower and upper elementary. (407) 835-7323. OAKLAND NATURE PRESERVE OPEN HOUSE 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 25, at the Oakland Nature Preserve, 747 Machete Trail, Oakland. The event will feature food, a LEGO build, animal interaction, guided hikes and more. A portion of donations for this event will go toward scholarships for educational programs. ‘THE PHANTOM OF THE MUSICAL’ 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 25, at the West Oaks Library, 1821 E. Silver Star Road, Ocoee. Journey behind the scenes to find out the secret “phantom” musicals and traditions that haunt and inspire the musicals that are written today. Sing, dance and learn to be musical theater detectives. (407) 835-7323.

HEALTHY LIVING FOR YOUR BRAIN AND BODY 6 p.m. Monday, Jan. 27, at the Winter Garden Branch Library, 805 E. Plant St., Winter Garden. Join the Alzheimer’s Association to learn about research in the areas of diet, cognitive activity and more, with handson tools to incorporate these recommendations into a plan for healthy aging. (407) 8357323.

TUESDAY, JAN. 28

SANDY SHUGART IN CONCERT 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 28, at the Garden Theatre, 146 W. Plant St. Enjoy the folkinfluenced, acoustic coffeehouse-style music and personal stories of Sandy Shugart in concert with the January Band. Presented by Valencia College and Orlando Health. Tickets are $25, $15 with a Valencia ID. For tickets, visit gardentheatre.org. WHIZKIDS: DESIGN A 3D PRINTED PENDANT 3:45 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 28, at the Winter Garden Library, 805 E. Plant St. Children ages 10 to

12 are invited to use a Tynker CAD to design their own custom pendant. Learn the basics of 3D design for printing. (407) 835-7323.

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 29

HEALTHCARE QUESTIONS WEBINAR: WHY ISN’T MY DOCTOR LISTENING TO ME? Noon Wednesday, Jan. 29, online at ohlearn.adobeconnect. com/mydoctor. Participants must log in and click “Meeting” then “Audio Setup Wizard” then “Next.” For information, call (321) 841-7234 or email Jessica.Daly@OrlandoHealth.com. PHOTOSHOP LEVEL 1 2 to 3:30 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 29, at the West Oaks Library, 1821 E. Silver Star Road, Ocoee. Learn about the functionality of Photoshop and explore the environment. Become familiar with using selection and editing tools. (407) 835-7323.

THURSDAY, JAN. 30

DIABETES & ME 5 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 30, at the Roper YMCA, 100 Windermere Road, Winter Garden. Attend this free class to learn more on how to manage diabetes, nutri-

tional guidelines, tips and more. (407) 347-0672, Ext. 1. I’VE DONE MY DNA — NOW WHAT? 11 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 30, at the West Oaks Library, 1821 E. Silver Star Road, Ocoee. If you have received your autosomal DNA test results and are wondering what to do next, then this program is what you need. Explore the best way to begin analyzing and working with DNA matches. Learn pitfalls to watch out for and discover how to make DNA work for you. (407) 835-7323. LAKEVIEW HIGH SCHOOL REUNION 5:30 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 30, at the Winter Garden Heritage Foundation’s Heller Hall, 21 E. Plant St. Students and staff (1928 through 1976) are invited to join other Lakeview Red Devils for hors d’oeuvres, wine and beer while viewing artifacts from the foundation’s LHS collection. Tickets are $10 for WGHF members and $12 for others. A limited number of tickets are available. RSVP at (407) 656-3244 or jcrescitelli@ wghf.org.

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2020

Courtesy Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida

Second Harvest’s Culinary Training Program helps provide economically disadvantaged adults with the training needed to launch a career in the food industry.

BEYOND TOWN BORDERS Windermere Wine & Dine’s growth has enabled the event to impact the Central Florida community at large.

DANIELLE HENDRIX ASSOCIATE EDITOR

or seven years now, Windermere Wine & Dine has grown exponentially — and this year, it sold out within five minutes. Originally created as a fundraiser to benefit Windermere Elementary School’s Mustang Education Fund and other town committees and organizations, the event has become a staple in the town. It consistently sells out, and each year the proceeds multiply. Windermere Wine & Dine raised $35,000 its first year, said event chair and founder C.T. Allen. With the event now in its seventh year, Allen said the Windermere Wine & Dine Saturday, Jan. 25, is expected to raise $250,000. “We’ve become this entity that everyone wants to be a part of, which is great,” Allen said. “Our town has embraced it. I’m overwhelmed by the people who are coming out of the woodworks and saying, ‘If you need me, I’m here.’ This year we have the most sponsors we’ve ever had. … It’s a quality event but they’ve also seen what we do after the event, and to me, that’s the message.” Allen added that while the event has been successful, it’s what happens the rest of the year that really matters — giving back. With the explosive growth and

level of success Windermere Wine & Dine enjoys, Allen and her event committee knew it was time to expand the beneficiaries beyond the town’s borders. Within the last two years, the committee established its “Wine & Dine Outreach Grants,” which come with a mission to help children and families throughout Central Florida. “Over the last couple of years, we started to expand outside the town borders and we did $20,000 to the Title I Schools in the West Learning District (in 2019),” Allen said. “When we did that, we got a lot of great comments and that’s what created more people coming on with the silent auction. We also wrote the $50,000 grant to the Central Florida Commission on Homelessness last year.” In total, the committee was able to distribute more than $200,000 in grants last year. This year, the two main organizations chosen as recipients of an outreach grant are Family Promise of Greater Orlando and Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida’s culinary training program. According to its website, Family Promise helps families overcome the crisis of homelessness by meeting the emergency need for shelter and meals, providing access to permanent housing and providing case management services to help families get back on

their feet. Windermere Wine & Dine will award $50,000 to Family Promise. “We … like the organizations that have an end goal — it’s not just giving food to somebody, it’s getting them stabilized and (promoting) sustainability,” Allen said. “Family Promise is a phenomenal organization.” The Second Harvest Culinary Training Program, according to its website, “provides qualified, at-risk and economically disadvantaged adults with the culinary and life-skills training needed to pursue a sustainable career in the food industry.” The organization will receive $25,000 from the event. However, the committee took it a step further: On the night of the event, eight restaurants will act as mentors to eight of the culinary program trainees. The trainees will gain invaluable experience while working the event under the tutelage of seasoned chefs. “I thought, ‘This is so great,’” Allen said. “This is our inaugural year (for the mentorship) — I would love for it to have legs and keep doing it in the future. These trainees will arrive on site about 2:30 p.m., we will introduce them, and they will be mentored that night from the experts. You can’t beat that training, especially at an outside event like this.”

The community outreach doesn’t stop there, though. Windermere Wine & Dine also will benefit the Windermere Police Foundation and other local nonprofits and organizations. Currently in the works is a $10,000 sensory room for ESE students at Gotha Middle School. And in December, the committee bought 18 $1,000 Amazon gift cards for schools in Orange County Public Schools’ West Learning District to help them stock their food pantries. Allen added that the Windermere Active Youth Committee will be receiving $5,000 from the event committee to help launch its youth program. In exchange, the teenagers involved volunteered to string lanyards and wash about 1,200 wine glasses the night before the event. “Everybody is bringing something to the plate,” Allen said of her committee and community members. “They’re not all just my ideas. Everybody comes and shares. The sensory room, that’s a game changer. It’s what we’ve created together. How (the event) has grown has been organic and we’ve gotten better and better every year, but we’ve gotten more thoughtful every year on how to spend the money. “We’ve proved that we’re good stewards of the dollars and where we’re going to place them,” she said. “I have fun doing the event — it is joyful — but this definitely brings it home when we’re able to write checks like this. Everybody enjoys it.”

Reported armed robbery in Horizon West unfounded Orange County detectives determined a juvenile wasn’t robbed at gunpoint in the Summerlake neighborhood. TIM FREED MANAGING EDITOR

An alleged armed robbery of a juvenile earlier this month in the Summerlake community never happened, according to detectives from the Orange County Sheriff’s Office.

According to a statement released Wednesday, Jan. 15, the detectives determined that the case was unfounded and no crime took place. The update came a few days after the Orange County Sheriff’s Office responded at 3:15 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 11, in reference to

an armed robbery along the 7500 block of Purple Finch Street. A juvenile victim reportedly was robbed at gunpoint while walking through the Summerlake neighborhood in Horizon West. According to the original statement from the Orange County Sheriff’s Office, the juvenile was walking when a vehicle approached her and a suspect told the victim to get in the car at gunpoint. After the victim entered the car, the suspect

drove a short distance, demanded property and told the victim to get out of the car. The victim suffered no injuries, according to the statement. Public Information Officer Michelle Guido said no action will be taken against the juvenile. “Detectives in this case are not looking to charge this victim with anything,” Guido said. “That could be done, based on the discretion of the deputy and their chain of com-

mand. Some of that might have to do with the intentions of the person who made the false report.” Unfounded cases do impact the Orange County Sheriff’s Office though, as they use up resources, Guido said. “It’s true that resources are spent in all these types of cases,” she said. “In this case, no one is looking to pursue any criminal charges against the reporting party.”

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2020

WEST ORANGE TIMES &

Observer “If we are to build a better world, we must remember that the guiding principle is this — a policy of freedom for the individual is the only truly progressive policy.” Friedrich Hayek

“Road to Serfdom,” 1944 President and CEO / Matt Walsh, mwalsh@yourobserver.com Editor and Publisher / Michael Eng, meng@OrangeObserver.com

Micah Cushman, 9; Annika Hsu, 8; and Maliya Cushman, 7; were spotted amidst a West Oaks Branch Library group at the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Unity Parade and Celebration in Ocoee.

Parade grand marshal Anthony Hodge waved to the crowd during the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Celebration in Winter Garden.

‘Let no man pull you so low as to hate him’ A

C.L. West & A Touch of Class Band played some classic blues tunes on the main stage at the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Celebration in Winter Garden.

message of peace and unity was spread throughout Winter Garden and Ocoee as each city put on its annual parade and festival honoring Martin Luther King Jr. Day Monday, Jan. 20. Locals gathered on Plant Street in downtown Winter Garden to celebrate the legacy of the civil rights hero during the annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Celebration. The morning started off with the community parade at 10 a.m. and was led by Winter Garden Fire Rescue’s Engine 24, as well as parade grand marshal and minister Anthony Hodge of Finding the Lost Sheep Ministry. Following the parade, visitors enjoyed a day filled with live

music, special speakers, children’s games and tasty food. About 5 miles away, the city of Ocoee hosted its 14th annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Unity Parade and Celebration. The parade started at 10 a.m. and marched from Citrus Elementary School to the West Oaks Mall. The spectacle was led by the Ocoee Police Department, followed by other first responders, elected officials and numerous nonprofits and organizations. The celebration concluded at the West Oaks Mall food court, where residents heard from keynote speaker Dr. Paul Ortiz, a professor of history at the University of Florida. — TIM FREED AND TROY HERRING

PASTORS: Gabe and Krystle Lynch WHERE: 820 S. Park Ave., Winter Garden; sharing space with The New Chief Cornerstone Ministries SERVICE: 6 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 25, and continuing several times each month WEBSITE: DreamAliveChurch.org CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

“dream alive,” and he and his wife, Krystle Lynch, felt God was leading them to start their own church. The Lynches will hold their first service at the non-denominational Dream Alive Church Saturday, Jan. 25, in Winter Garden. They have served in ministry together for more than 20 years. Once they made the decision to open Dream Alive Church, they reached out to friends in the pastoral community for support. Dr. Cloretha James, the pastor at The New Chief Cornerstone Ministries in Winter Garden, answered their plea for assistance and offered space at her church. “I said, ‘We’re looking for a place to meet,’ and she said, ‘Let’s make it happen,’” Gabe Lynch said. The Lynches live in Apopka with

their three sons but said they love Winter Garden and consider the downtown area their “hangout spot.” Krystal Lynch is a graduate of West Orange High School, and Gabe Lynch graduated from Evans High School, so the two already were familiar with Winter Garden and West Orange County. They held an interest meeting last month, and five families participated. They will be attending the first service, too, and, as of now, make up the Dream Alive congregation. The Lynches are opening the doors Saturday to anyone in the community who wishes to try out their church. They said they’re expecting about 200 people. The husband-and-wife team typically preach together, alternating each service. Saturday’s service will include two recording artists, gospel rapper Real Salt and contemporary Christian performer Nate Edmund; the Send Judah First dance group; and live worship by the McCroskey Family. Gabe Lynch will offer the first sermon, and then all are invited to enjoy a reception of milk and cookies. While they’re getting the church started, they will hold two or three services each month. They will take a one-week break after holding services Feb. 1 and 8. “Our goal is to go to Sunday mornings, but as a start we want

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Diamond Thomas from Chain of Love Ministries at the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Unity Parade and Celebration in Ocoee.

The West Orange Times & Observer is published once weekly, on Thursdays. The paper can be found in many commercial locations throughout West Orange County and at our office. If you wish to subscribe, visit our website, OrangeObserver.com, call (407) 656-2121 or visit our office, 661 Garden Commerce Parkway, Suite 180, Winter Garden.

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Dream Alive Church coming soon DREAM ALIVE CHURCH

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Gabe and Krystle Lynch, above, with their three sons, are holding the first Dream Alive Church service Saturday, Jan. 25.

to give people a chance to check us out on Saturdays,” Krystle Lynch said. Eventually, the Lynches hope to secure enough funds to purchase a church building of their own. Their ultimate goal is to operate a church and event center under one roof and, perhaps, build a gymnasium for youth programs. Other plans include children’s and youth programs, sports events such as basketball and soccer, a women’s empowerment ministry, book-writing classes and an audio academy.

To make all this happen, though, funds are needed, and the church’s website has a “give” button that takes donors to Givelify. “New churches are the No. 1 reason people who don’t know Christ come to God’s family,” the Lynches wrote on their website. “Our mission is simple: See how God can dream through you. God has a dream that whosoever believes in His son, Jesus, would have life forever. Dream Alive Church will exist to communicate how God can dream through you.”

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IN OTHER NEWS n The commissioners accepted the infrastructure for Oakland Park Phase 6A, which included the water, streets, sidewalks and lot pad grading, “as they have been built to standards that have been agreed upon,” Public Works Director Mike Parker said in his report. The total value of the improvements was $1.28 million — $535,000 for roadway and paving, $485,469 for the storm drainage system and $258,957 for the potable water distribution system. n The commission approved asphalt apron work on Brock Street, as well as other locations in town. The aprons are necessary to create a transition between dirt and paved roads when they intersect. n Town Clerk Elise Hui read the oath of office to the new police chief, John Peek. n Mark Sittig of the Florida League of Cities presented a resolution to Mayor Kathy Stark for her 25 years of elected service to the town of Oakland. n The commission approved the town manager entering into a contract with Kimley-Horn and Associates using the town of Windermere’s contract for a transportation initiative proposed by Mayor Jerry Demings to be funded through an increase in the sales tax. Area municipalities are working together on a regional transportation solution plan to submit to Orange County.

Analysis for healthy growth ORDINANCES PASS

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

The Town Commission passed the second reading of three ordinances regarding a Comprehensive Plan amendment text change, a water impact fee amendment and the vacation of a portion of Arrington Street. n The Comp Plan text change includes amendments to two sections. The first lowers the density cap of dwelling units per acre from 55 to 25. The latter revisions were recommended in the state-mandated 10-year water supply facilities master plan. n The town is seeing significant growth, and with it come more demands on the town’s water system. Town officials hired Raftelis Financial Consultants to conduct a

as well. This analysis identifies the support needed from the town for each of the land uses, as well as the projected contributions per land use. Lisa Dilts, Compspring principal, and Gary Gray, of Davis Wince Ltd. Architecture, gave a detailed presentation at the Jan. 14 Town Commission meeting. It outlined demographics, which concluded that, overall, Oakland is most heavily concentrated with households in the 25-to-64 age range and more than 35% of those households earn more than $100,000 per year. In 2018, Oakland had 116 new-home sales, all in the $250,000 to $500,000 price range. That same year, more than 40% of the jobs in the town were office or medical office related. To evaluate the demand opportunity by land use, several factors were considered, including employment, health and household growth projections in the broader area, as well as projected growth in the town and surrounding area. The firm made a number of conclusions: n There are about 135 new homes annually; the upside (potential) demand could be about 180. n The current demand for additional conventional office and medical office space is 15,000 square feet; the upside demand is 40,000. n Office co-working space currently comprises 2,000 square feet and, in the next five to eight years, 2,500; the upside demand is 10,000 to 12,000. n Up to 100 hotel rooms could be utilized to support the current population and area employees; the upside demand is up to 200. n A total of 160,000 square feet of supportable retail space is projected in the next five years; the upside demand is up to 200,000. n Based on demand, Oakland could support 60 to 85 new multifamily units per year for the next five years; the upside demand is 250 to 300 units, with the potential to add up to 300 more in the next two years. All of this data will play a significant role in what type of economic development Oakland will pursue. Gray said he already is working on the next phase — he has been talking to three interested restaurants. They would be local restaurants, possibly with a farm-to-table concept and no national chains. “We’re trying to help you set the priorities,” Gray said. “It’s coming no matter what,” Mayor Kathy Stark said. “We might as well get what we want.” Gray replied: “You don’t want to be Winter Garden West. You want to be you.”

water impact fee study; it was determined that increased rates were necessary. For single-family resident homes, the existing rate is $937 and the new rate will be $1,946. The rates of other classes — including commercial and multi-family — are determined by the size of the meter, from 5/8-inch to 8 inches, and are increasing from a range of $937 to $46,850 to a new range of $1,946 to $155,680. The impact fees are imposed on new construction. The increased dollars will help the town carry out several muchneeded projects, including a new water well, an alternative water source for irrigation and new distribution lines in the northwest

THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2020

HOUSEHOLDS BY THE NUMBERS

939 in the town of Oakland 79 percentage of those between the ages 25 to 64 37 percentage of those earning more than $100,000 annually 45 percentage of those

with children living at home

77 percentage of those who own their own home

and southern areas of the town’s Joint Planning Area. n The town is vacating a 20-foot portion of South Arrington Street to the West Orange Baptist Church, and in return, the church is giving the town the northern 25 feet of its property on South Tubb Street.

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Faith-based preschool to open in Winter Garden

1600 Hancock Road, Suite D Clermont, FL 34711 (352) 404-5238 schwab.com/clermont

Hancock Road

1600 Hancock Road

Ho oks Str eet

All Kidz Preschool, an extension of 1 Foundation Ministries, will be located on East Plant Street in Winter Garden. DANIELLE HENDRIX

Holl

ASSOCIATE EDITOR erry

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Bond Street

Holly Berry Circle

Windermere Independent Branch 4848 S. Apopka Vineland Rd. Suite #204 Orlando, FL 32819 (407) 909-0485 schwab.com/windermere Conroy Windermere Road

Conroy Windermere Road

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A new, faith-based preschool is ready to open its doors in Winter Garden. All Kidz Preschool, an extension of 1 Foundation Ministries, is now enrolling children ages 6 weeks to 5 years old. Located at 1130 E. Plant St., Winter Garden, All Kidz Preschool will focus on creating a firm educational foundation for the children it serves. Its mission is to provide an exceptional learning environment that will foster each child’s intellectual, social, physical and moral development in a fun environment. Through 1 Foundation Ministries, those involved are focused on building people up through a common foundation — their faith. All Kidz Preschool Director Felicia Lee said the school is a continuation of this vision. “It is faith-based, and we’re basically wanting to appeal to an audience of people that are really interested in best-care practice for the family,” Lee said. “We’re wanting to just not reach the kids, but the family and also the community within the scope of having the preschool. We plan to do morning devotions in which the parent and loved ones will participate ... if they happen to be available. We also plan on doing the VPK program this coming August to kind of expand from where we’re at.” All Kidz Preschool has Florida League of Christian Schools accreditation and qualified staff with public school teaching experience, childcare certifications and licenses, and CPR and firstaid certifications. The overall goal is to instill in each child a social and educa-

tional foundation that will help them transition into school. At All Kidz Preschool, staff and volunteers know it takes a village to raise a child — and to get the school up and running. Recently, a group of teenage girls serving through Girl Spirit came to the school to paint fun murals and works of art on the walls — a truly spirited environment for teaching and enriching the lives of children. “A lot of times, people think of a preschool as a place for kids, but it’s actually a community commodity with values that go beyond the walls,” Lee said. “We take pride in intentional effort to bring in people that will impact in different ways. You can see the art, you can see the love of people from different ages who will be attending. It’s amazing. Those are teen girls, and they are connected through some of the foundational members. “It’s really a work out of the heart of the civic responsibility to take care of a community at large,” she said. “We want to reach the community in different ways and bring people together. That was really fun.” All Kidz Preschool still is hiring staff and enrolling children, and Lee said the team hopes to open next month. If all goes to plan, they also will expand to offering a VPK program this fall. “(We’re) just really looking to provide a level of care that causes the center to be talked about,” Lee said. “Whenever you have a labor of love ongoing for any group of people … we just really want to make a positive impact on that foundational time of their lives and the lives of the families of the children that are coming to be served.”

ALL KIDZ PRESCHOOL 1130 E. Plant St., Winter Garden PHONE: (407) 347-3648 OPEN HOUSE: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 25. All Kidz is open for enrollment and serves children ages 6 weeks to 5 years old. WEBSITE: allkidzpreschool.com EMAIL: allkidzpreschool@yahoo. com

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2020

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WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

BAPTIST

First Baptist Church Pastor Tim Grosshans 125 E. Plant St, Winter Garden (407) 656-2352 Sundays: 8:30 a.m. Traditional 9:45 AM Bible Study 11:00 AM Contemporary Wednesdays: 6 p.m.- Awana 2nd Campus: Foundation Worship Foundation Academy High School 15304 Tilden Rd., Winter Garden (407) 730-1867 Sundays: 9:45 a.m. All Ages FoundationWorship.com Starke Lake Baptist Church Pastor Jeff Pritchard PO Box 520 611 W Ave., Ocoee (407) 656-2351 StarkeLakeBaptist.org

CHURCH OF GOD

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2020

Ocoee Church of God Pastor Thomas Odom 1105 N. Lakewood Ave.,Ocoee (407) 656-8011

Remaining RELEVANT

EPISCOPAL

Libraries constantly are changing to offer residents a variety of programs to improve their skills in the digital world.

Church of the Messiah 241 N. Main St., Winter Garden Services: 8, 9:30, & 11 a.m., 7 p.m. ChurchoftheMessiah.com

METHODIST

AMY QUESINBERRY

First United Methodist Church 125 N. Lakeview Ave., Winter Garden (407) 656-1135 Services: 9 and 11:15 a.m. fumcwg.org

COMMUNITY EDITOR

UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST

Windermere Union Church 10710 Park Ridge-Gotha Rd., Windermere (407) 876-2112 Adult Worship: 9 a.m. Sunday School: 10 a.m. WindermereUnion.org NON-DENOMINATIONAL Purpose Church Orlando 13640 W Colonial Dr. Ste 110, Winter Garden (407) 654-9661 Sunday Service: 10:05 a.m. Sunday Brazilian Service: 7 p.m. Saturday Service: 6 p.m. purposechurchorlando.org

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Public libraries once were the main resource for obtaining knowledge, exploring the globe or escaping into the pages of fiction novels and picture books. But then the internet was introduced, and suddenly libraries began seeing a decline in attendance. This new information highway didn’t leave much room for library visits. Some folks say there is no longer a need for libraries, but officials at the Orange County Library System have a different opinion. So, how do libraries remain relevant in a digital world? “Our libraries are vital resources for our community,” said Erin Sullivan, OCLS public relations administrator. “While the work of libraries is changing, the need for them is not going away. Libraries don’t just offer books and basic computing classes; our libraries offer things like coding classes, e-books, streaming movies and TV shows, early-learning resources for caregivers of young children, access to 3D printing and photography studios, language learning classes and so much more.” Just last month, OCLS launched a new library app that introduces mobile checkout and virtual library cards. In 2014, the Orlando Public Library moved its fiction section and opened the Dorothy Lumley Melrose Center for Technology, Innovation and Creativity. This space includes a variety of technological resources, such as sound booths, video and audio production studios, multiple computers and workstations, a photo studio, a simulation lab and a 3D printer. A wide range of programs is offered at all the branches in Orange County. This year, residents can sign up for programs that focus on topics such as literacy, early learning, life skills, entrepreneurial skills, science and art. “Modern libraries remain vital by evolving, and the Orange County Library System has remained relevant by listening to the needs of the community and adapting to make sure we meet them,” Sullivan said. “In 2018, we received a National Medal from the Institute for Museum and Library Services. I think that’s a sign that we’re on the right path and that our community continues to need us.” West Orange County has four library branches: Southwest, West Oaks, Windermere and Winter Garden.

HORIZON WEST POP-UP LIBRARY SCHEDULE Pop-up library programs take place at the Waterleigh Community Clubhouse, 16150 Pebble Bluff Loop, Winter Garden. n ZERO TO FIVE STORY TIME, 10:30 to 11 a.m. Thursdays, Jan. 23, Feb. 6, Feb. 20, March 5 and March 19. This program, recommended for babies, toddlers and preschoolers, offers the rhythm and repetition of nursery rhymes and the use of picture books, songs and flannel board stories. Lasts about 25 minutes. n PRIME TIME FAMILY READING TIME – BILINGUAL, 6 p.m. Thursdays, Feb. 6, Feb. 13, Feb. 20, Feb. 27, March 5 and March 12. This six-week reading and discussion program promotes conversation between children and families. Meals will be provided. Call (407) 835-7323. n TO BE A DRUM CELEBRATION, 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 8. Enjoy a storytelling performance of “To Be a Drum,” by Evelyn Coleman. Register at (407) 835-7323. n BIG IDEA BUBBLE SHOW, 10:30 a.m. Saturday, March 7. Learn about reflection, refraction, surface tension and more from shimmering waves of soap films to rainbow bubbles and other bubbles of all shapes and sizes. Register at (407) 835-7323. n DISCOVER MATH & SCIENCE, presented by Michelee Puppets, 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 18. Explore the seasons, shapes and surprises in the world, explore math concepts and be transported into a world of imagination. Register at (407) 835-7323.

WHERE ARE THE CLOSEST LIBRARIES TO HORIZON WEST? ORANGE COUNTY Franklin W. Chase Memorial Library, Windermere — 15.3 miles S.C. Battaglia Memorial Branch Library, Winter Garden — 16.2 miles West Oaks Branch Library and Genealogy Center, Ocoee — 17.5 miles Hiawassee Branch Library, Orlando — 19 miles Southwest Branch Library, Orlando — 26.4 miles LAKE COUNTY Cagan Crossings Community Library, Clermont — 7.8 miles Cooper Memorial Library, Clermont — 23.2 miles OSCEOLA COUNTY West Osceola Branch Library, Celebration — 16.3 miles Hart Memorial Central Library, Kissimmee — 22 miles POLK COUNTY Haines City Public Library, Haines City — 26.5 miles Polk City Library, Polk City — 29.6 miles

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2020

Call for information (407) 654-2724

X Amy Quesinberry

The Orlando Public Library’s Melrose Center has 26,000 square feet of technological centers, such as a 3D lab, a simulation lab, sound booths, video and audio production studios, multiple computers, workstations and a photo studio.

LIBRARY SYSTEM PLANNING HORIZON WEST BRANCH involved my children in story time at the library. Libraries are a place of learning for our community, regardless of one’s economic status. And they provide a focus and gathering place for the community.” Until a permanent library facility is built, the library will continue to offer classes and programs in Horizon West through its successful pop-up library. “Pop-up libraries give communities in our service area a sampling of library programming close to home,” said Erin Sullivan, OCLS public relations coordinator. “Horizon West and Lake Nona are fast-growing areas, home to families who would like to bring their kids to library events but don’t always find it easy to do so because there isn’t a library nearby.” She said special programming is coming to Horizon West in February, and this summer, special pop-ups will offer the library system’s annual Summer Reading Program, which typically draws about 100,000 people.

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The Orange County Library System currently is studying two pieces of property in Horizon West to determine which would be better suited for a new library. “We recently received permission to begin land evaluations, which will determine the number of buildable acres of each property,” said Mary Anne Hodel, OCLS library director and CEO. “After the report is delivered to us, we will determine which property to purchase and proceed with negotiations.” The properties are jointly owned by Orange County and the city of Winter Garden, so the purchase will need to be approved by both jurisdictions. District 1 Orange County Commissioner Betsy VanderLey has said she would like to see a library in Horizon West. “The library was always a very special place for me,” she said. “As soon as my parents allowed, I would ride my bike up to the library twice a week to check out books. As a parent, I often

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WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2020

‘On my way’ The Garden Theatre’s first musical of 2020 runs from Jan. 24 to Feb. 9.

AMENDMENT TO THE OCOEE LAND DEVELOPMENT CODE SPECIFIC TO ARTICLE V, SECTION 5-4 AND SECTION 5-4.1 FOR RESIDENTIAL FENCING

ERIC GUTIERREZ STAFF WRITER

NOTICE IS HEREBY given that the OCOEE CITY COMMISSION will consider a proposed amendment to the City of Ocoee Land Development Code. The OCOEE CITY COMMISSION will hold a public hearing on the proposed amendment on TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2020, AT 6:15 PM or as soon thereafter as practical. The public hearing will be held in the City Hall Commission Chambers located at 150 North Lakeshore Drive, Ocoee. AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF OCOEE, FLORIDA, AMENDING SECTION 5-4 OF THE CITY OF OCOEE LAND DEVELOPMENT CODE, RELATING TO OPEN SPACE REQUIREMENTS OF ZONING DISTRICTS; AMENDING SECTION 5-4.1 OF THE CITY OF OCOEE LAND DEVELOPMENT CODE, RELATING TO FENCING; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR CODIFICATION; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. Interested parties may appear at the public hearing and be heard with respect to the proposed actions above. The complete case file may be inspected at the Ocoee Development Services Department/Planning Division located at 150 North Lakeshore Drive, Ocoee, Florida between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, except legal holidays. The City Commission may continue this public hearing to other dates and times, as it deems necessary. Any interested party shall be advised of the dates, times, and places of any continuation of these or continued public hearings shall be announced during the hearing and no further notices regarding these matters will be published. You are advised that any person who desires to appeal any decision made at the public hearings will need a record of the proceedings and for this purpose may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made which includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is based. Persons with disabilities needing assistance to participate in any of these proceedings should contact the City Clerk’s Office 48 hours in advance of the meeting at 407-905-3105.

IF YOU GO

While seeking out a minister to heal a scar on her face, one woman discovers the meaning of inner beauty. That’s the story behind the Garden Theatre’s latest production, “Violet,” opening this weekend and running until Feb. 9. The folk musical will take audiences back to 1964 Appalachia to tell the story of a young woman named Violet as she embarks on a pilgrimage to change her future. As a child, Violet was struck by a stray axe blade when her father was chopping wood. The horrible accident left a visible scar on her face, and she spends a decade on the search for a doctor who can heal the scar the axe left behind, but to no avail. Her last hope is to visit a minister many miles away to see if he can heal her disfigurement. This upcoming musical tells the story of Violet’s crosscountry journey in the hopes of being healed — and how she discovers the meaning of true beauty along the way. “She’s discovering who she is,” said Holli Trisler, who plays Violet as an adult. “She’s learning how to accept herself, how to love herself, how to forgive her father for some things that she’s held onto for a long time and discovering what real beauty really means. … Everyone has scars and Violet’s is

‘VIOLET’ WHERE: Garden Theatre, 160 W. Plant St., Winter Garden SHOWTIMES: 7:30 p.m. Wednesdays through Saturdays; 2 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays; 2 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 6; ASLinterpreted performance at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 6 COST: $35 to $37; discounts available for youth, seniors, active and retired military, and groups of 10 or more. TICKETS: Onsite at the box office, online at gardentheatre.org or by phone at (407) 877-4736, Ext. 0

out there for everyone to see, but really, her true scar is inward. It’s learning to deal with loving who she is and learning to deal with forgiving her father for the accident. Her true healing comes from inside.” As a musical set in the American South during the 1960s, the show also deals with some of the racial issues of that time period. One of the characters that Violet meets on her journey is a black soldier named Flick who ends up teaching her about prejudice, said Caiti Fallon, who plays young Violet in the show. “It also deals with some of the prejudices that Violet doesn’t know she has toward him and having to learn that he’s also just like her — except his (struggle) isn’t necessarily a scar but it’s the fact that he’s African-American

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WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2020

Happy 33rd Birthday, Ashley McWilliams January 26, 2020 As parents, our hope is that our children will be happy and successful; we pray for their safety and wish them peace in their lives. As parents, we are also fiercely protective of our children. None of this changes, no matter how old our children are. While over the years, life has sent you down a long and winding road, you have now created and defined your own path. You have great love and empathy for children & the elderly; a deep passion for animals; a strong work ethic and a kind heart. You are a daughter that these parents, and our family, thank God for every day.

Happy Birthday Angelface…We Love You! Mom & Dad (and our Angel in the Infield, Justin)

‘Violet’ through the (Encore) gala with Chita Rivera,” Fallon said. “I got the opportunity to sing ‘On My Way’ from ‘Violet,’ which is one of the more notable numbers from the show. … Getting to be a part of it and getting to tell this story is just incredible for me.” “I knew very little about it before I was cast,” Trisler said. “I had heard some of the music before and thought it was beautiful, but I didn’t really know a whole lot in-depth (in terms) of the theme, the issues that it deals with (and) the story that it tells. … Reading through the script and listening to the music more, it really blew me away how beautiful of a story it is. It’s not very wellknown — this musical — but I’m so thankful that the Garden was brave enough to put it on, because it really is a powerful story that needs to be told.”

“Violet” is set in Appalachia during the 1960s and deals with some of the racial issues of that era.

Happy 38th Birthday, Justin McWilliams January 26, 2020

On this, what would have been your 38th birthday, we reflect on what a blessing you were and continue to be, in so many lives. We are thankful that, through your story and the stories of others, you have had an impact on the lives of more than 55,000 young people. We are thankful for your friends and their families, for never forgetting your kind and caring spirit. We are thankful for the endless memories that make us smile, laugh and cry, all at the same time. We are most thankful that God chose us to be your family for 20-amazing years.

Much love to you our sweet Angel in the Infield and forever, the Captain of Heaven’s Team. Happy Birthday Justin, Mom, Dad & Ashley

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and he’s really trying just to get by like any white person in the time period,” Fallon said. “It’s very much about Flick’s journey too. … It’s about them learning that they’re not as different as they think they are.” “Violet and Flick end up connecting well because they both understand what it means to be judged by your appearance,” Trisler added. “For Flick it’s his skin color (and) for Violet it’s her scar.” Both Fallon and Trisler weren’t very familiar with the musical before getting involved with the Garden Theatre’s production of it, but Fallon previously has been exposed to one of the show’s songs. During the Garden Theatre’s 2019 Encore fundraiser, Fallon performed one of the songs from “Violet” onstage at the event. “I actually got introduced to

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WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2020

WEST ORANGE OBITUARIES

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Opal Rae VanArsdale, age 89, gently passed away on Monday, Jan. 13, 2020, at The Waters of Robertson care facility in Springfield, Tennessee. Interment, with a graveside service in remembrance and celebration of her life, will be held for family and friends at Memorial Gardens Cemetery in Traverse City, Michigan. Mrs. VanArsdale was born Nov. 30, 1930, in Traverse City, Michigan. She was the fifth of seven children of Clarence Edward Bracebridge and Lulu Rose (Cook) Bracebridge. She was the devoted wife of James Lowry VanArsdale, and together they made their home in Flint, Michigan, where they raised five brilliant children. Mrs. VanArsdale was a graduate of Cedar Lake Academy and worked as a medical office manager for many years prior to retirement. She honored her God through worship in the Seventh-day Adventist Church. She

especially loved to add her voice to His glory through song and performed for many years with the traditional gospel group, The Heraldettes. In her later years, she enjoyed volunteering her time to help students at the Maranatha Adventist School and patients at the Veterans Hospital in Columbia, Missouri. In addition to her husband and her parents, she is preceded in death by two brothers, four sisters and a daughter-in-law. Mrs. VanArsdale is survived by her children and their spouses: Robert and Sharon VanArsdale, of Shady Cove, Oregon, David

and Julie VanArsdale, of York, Pennsylvania, Donald and Lovel VanArsdale, of Hendersonville, Tennessee, Danny VanArsdale and Corinne Ranzinger, of Cedar Hill, Tennessee, and Patricia and Brook Powers, of Agat, Guam; and by 13 wonderful grandchildren and 12 beautiful great-grandchildren. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that donations may be made to either the Dementia Society of America or to the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Mrs. VanArsdale’s memory. Those we hold closest to our hearts never truly leave us — instead, they live on through the love and laughter that they brought into our lives, and also in the kindness they have shown us, which we in turn, share with others. Thank you, Mom and Grandma, we love you and miss you. Please visit lifestorytc.com to sign the guestbook, share your thoughts with the family and more. Life Story Funeral Home, Traverse City.

Vicky Amelia (Morris) Agnew, 65, of Ocoee, died Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2020. Collison Carey Hand Funeral Home, Winter Garden.

Josephine Hernandez, 90, died Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2020. Woodlawn Funeral Home & Memorial Park, Gotha.

Betty Jean McCaskill, 84, died Saturday, Jan. 11, 2020. Woodlawn Funeral Home & Memorial Park, Gotha.

Madhoe “John” Goseine, 71, of Ocoee, died Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2020. Collison Carey Hand Funeral Home, Winter Garden.

James Ronald “Ron” Kaba, 85, of Ocoee, died Monday, Jan. 13, 2020. DeGusipe Funeral Home and Crematory, Ocoee.

Donna Lynn Muckler, 35, of Ocoee, died Saturday, Jan. 11, 2020. Woodlawn Funeral Home & Memorial Park, Gotha.

James Elbert Hardy, 92, of Ocoee, died Sunday, Jan. 12, 2020. Collison Carey Hand Funeral Home, Winter Garden.

Robert Francis Klauzowski, 88, died Saturday, Jan. 18, 2020. Woodlawn Funeral Home & Memorial Park, Gotha.

Zachariah Michael Wade, 17, of Winter Garden, died Tuesday, Jan. 14, 2020. Collison Carey Hand Funeral Home, Winter Garden.

OPAL RAE VANARSDALE DIED MONDAY, JAN. 13, 2020.

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SCHOOL ZONE JANUARY 23, 2020

GENIE

JOURNEY Courtesy photo

Michael James Scott returns to his hometown to star as the Genie in ‘Aladdin.’

A career in theater and singing has led Dr. Phillips High grad Michael James Scott back to his hometown and on stage at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts as Genie in ‘Aladdin.’ BIANCA MORALES

IF YOU GO

STAFF INTERN

‘ALADDIN’ WHEN: Jan. 22 through Feb. 9 WHERE: Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, 445 S. Magnolia Ave., Orlando TICKETS: Can be purchased online at drphillipscenter.org, by calling (844) 513-2014 or by visiting the Dr. Phillips Center’s Bill and Mary Darden Box Office at 445 S. Magnolia Ave., Orlando, between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday through Friday or noon and 4 p.m. Saturday.

rlando is in for one magical homecoming. Singer, actor and dancer Michael James Scott will be returning to his hometown of Orlando to reprise his role as the Genie in Disney’s “Aladdin” at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. Scott previously played the Genie on Broadway, in London’s West End, on the North American tour and in Australia, where he originated the part and won a Helpmann Award (the Australian version of The Tony Award). In a special arrangement, the Orlando native will reprise the role in place of Korie Lee Blossey, the tour’s current Genie, to perform in front of his hometown. Scott’s journey as an actor started in the City Beautiful, when he made appearances in commercials and theater shows and sang in live concerts around the city. He’s seen his career skyrocket since then, being cast for Broadway musicals like “Elf,” “The Book of Mormon,” “Something Rotten” and “Hair.” Growing up, Scott attended Dr. Phillips High School and joined the theater program under the tutelage of Karen Rugerio, the program director. While he was an artist since childhood, Scott said he discovered his love

for theater in Dr. Phillips High’s visual and performing arts program. “Dr. Phillips High School’s theater program was a great stepping stone for me,” Scott said. “I’m proud to be a part of Karen’s army of artists.” His favorite show at Dr. Phillips was the school’s production of “Purlie” during his senior year. “It taught me leadership,” Scott said. “It taught me how to lead a musical.” Scott said that “Purlie” was a demanding production, due in large part to Rugerio’s standards. “Karen sets the bar really high,” Scott said. “She topped herself every year.” Scott described basic theater preparation — which varies from artist to artist — in three steps: rehearsing, adding technical elements and opening the show. It’s a demanding lifestyle, Scott said. “People don’t realize how physical and demanding it is,” Scott said. “We’re athletes. You have to be regimented.” Regardless of the work that must be poured into preparation, the rise of the curtain and succeeding in the job is a rewarding feeling that makes it all worth it, he said. “You let go on stage, and that’s where theater magic happens,” Scott said.

Years later, Scott would land perhaps his largest role yet as a professional. He described the moment he landed the role of the Genie in “Aladdin” as “pure joy.” “It’s a role that doesn’t come around often, especially for people of color,” Scott said. The role of the Genie wasn’t initially on his radar, though, he said. Scott knew Casey Nicholaw, a Tony Award-nominated choreographer, director and performer, from his time in “The Book of Mormon” and “Something Rotten”. Nicholaw encouraged him to take on the role of the Genie — and the next thing he knew, he had the part. “It was thanks to my earth angels,” Scott said. “Those people who believe in you when you don’t believe it yourself. “‘Aladdin’ is a universal language,” he said. “It has a universal appeal. I’m enjoying this Genie journey right now.” Apart from the stage life, Scott also is working on a music album. He said he’s trying to figure out the angle he wants to take with the concept.

“You let go on stage, and that’s where theater magic happens.” — Michael James Scott

“People have their own language,” Scott said. “I’m working on Michael’s language. I’m trying to figure it out.” Scott said he almost lost his joy of performing, though, when he was younger because of insecurities. If he could give his younger self at Dr. Phillips High some advice, he would tell him to relax and that “everything happens for a reason,” Scott said. “I would tell him, ‘You’ll come back to that joy one day,’” Scott said. “‘People will hire you. Let the universe, God, Allah, Buddha take over.’” Regardless, he regained his positivity and his “joy and heart.” “People want to be around that,” he said. “I supported myself through the arts.” The Dr. Phillips High grad is elated to come back to Orlando and perform at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. “It’s such a dream to be able to bring it to my hometown,” Scott said. “It’s a gift.” Scott highlights Orlando as a city that is supportive of the arts, whether it is theater, music or dance. “I will be forever grateful for what the community of Orlando can do to support the arts,” Scott said. “I’m a product of that.”

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

West Orange High School seeks Ultimate Warriors

The West Orange High School Ultimate Warrior Scholarship opportunity now is available to West Orange High seniors in good standing for any post high school education (vocational, college, etc.). Visit bit.ly/38tNGj1 to download and print an application. They also are available at the front office and guidance. Submit completed applications to guidance by March 12. Applicants should only identify themselves on the application by their student number, and each page of the application should include the applicant’s student number. Application responses must be handwritten in the space provided on the Ultimate Warrior Application — do not attach supplemental materials. Consider making a donation to the West Orange High School Ultimate Warrior scholarship fund. This will allow the PTSO to provide additional scholarships to deserving West Orange High seniors. Visit bit.ly/3amrrgO to donate.

Area schools to compete in 2020 ‘Souper Bowl’

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2020

The big game is coming, but the local “Souper Bowl of Caring” already is underway. Through Sunday, Feb. 2, Holy Family Catholic Church is asking for the community’s help in collecting donations for its St. Vincent de Paul food pantry. Many local schools, including West Orange and Windermere high schools, and community members are hosting food drives to collect the items needed. Those items include peanut butter (18-ounce size), jelly, canned fruit, cereal, tuna, soups, pasta and rice (1- or 2-pound sizes), canned vegetables, macaroni and cheese, and canned or boxed dinners such as Hamburger Helper and ravioli. For more information, visit facebook. com/SBOCHolyFamily.

INFLUENCER OF THE WEEK

MELINDA GARCIA ORANGE TECHNICAL COLLEGE WESTSIDE CAMPUS Melinda Garcia is the medical assisting program director at Orange Technical College Westside Campus. Her exceptional ability to communicate with her students, be proactive in partnering and building relationships with area hospitals and doctors’ offices, and perform with great proficiency the clinical responsibilities of a medical assistant has earned her the respect of her peers.

What do you love most about Orange Technical College? One of the things that I love to most about OTC Westside is the family atmosphere that is felt throughout. There is a strong and genuine support system, not only professionally, but personally as well. If any staff or faculty member is ever in need, everyone is always there to support one another. I am very blessed to have had the opportunity to work and grow professionally in a place such as OTC Westside. What’s your favorite part of your role? I have several different roles at OTC Westside, and there are things that I absolutely love about each and every one of them. My role as an instructor is my favorite. Being able to impact student lives by teaching them the knowledge and skills that will help them obtain a career as a medical assistant is a true blessing. I love watching their confidence grow as they progress through the program, and, even more so obtain a job in their career upon graduating.

REPORT CARD ROLE: Medical assistant program director, apprenticeship coordinator and instructor TIME AT SCHOOL: 12 years

What motivates you and pushes you to do your best? The success of all medical assistant students is what pushes me to do my very best. I work very hard at what I do. I sit on many committees and boards to try and be a part of the advancement in the medical assistant field. Medical assistant is now one of the top five job needs. Witnessing the opportunities now available to a medical assistant graduate — especially those that graduate from Orange Technical College — grow and develop has been an amazing thing to witness. What’s the nicest thing a student or faculty member has done for you? A few years back I shared with my students that when I was a young girl I was not able to have my “Quinceañera” (the celebration of girl’s 15th birthday) because during that time my family and I lived in South Florida, and it was the year that Hurricane Andrew hit and destroyed many homes in that area — our home was one of them. When my birthday came during that school year, my students surprised me by planning, with the assistance other school

faculty members, to come into my classroom at night to decorate my room. They decorated it so beautifully to make up for the celebration that I never had so many years prior. They dressed tables with linens, photo booth backdrops (built by our building construction students), table centerpieces, balloons, a cake and dessert table … the works! They went all out. I was completely surprised and never knew that they had been planning this. If you could take a vacation anywhere, where would you go? My dream vacation would be to go to Italy. My husband and I came close once, but had an unexpected mishap and we just haven’t been able to make it happen since, but I am hopeful that we will make it there someday in the future.

— TIM FREED

NOMINATE YOUR INFLUENCER

Do you have an “unsung hero” at your school? If so, please nominate him or her for our Influencer of the Week feature. Nominations can be sent via email to contact@orangeobserver.com.

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OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2020

OBSERVER SCHOOL ZONE

Laying a solid foundation Foundation Academy gave its families a comprehensive update on the school at its 2020 State of the Academy. TIM FREED MANAGING EDITOR

The Foundation Academy family is headed into 2020 with a fresh vision and plenty of plans. Students, parents and faculty gathered at the Foundation Academy gymnasium Thursday, Jan. 16, to hear about everything happening at the West Orangearea private school — and to learn more about what lies ahead. Early on, the audience heard from Upper Campus Student Pastor Ken Mann, who touched on the many ways that Foundation Academy students are taught God’s word and biblical principles. “We believe here at Foundation that faith is the truest foundation of our academy, whether it’s at Plant Street, Tilden Road or our Lakeside campus,” Mann said. “The elements that make faith at Foundation Academy real, relevant and alive take place in several different places: our Upper

Tim Freed

“It’s been a lot of work, but just think — dreams become reality and the vision becomes clearer.” — Dave Buckles, president, Foundation Academy

and Lower School chapels, on the sport fields and courts, in classrooms and also throughout our community.” Mann highlighted the studentled praise band that performs in the chapel, how the campuses start every day with a prayer over the PA systems, and how students and teachers share testimonies throughout the year. “The evidence of the impact that FA has made on the faith of our students and their families is very clear,” Mann said. “This past year we’ve had 18 decisions for Christ during a special chapel.

… We had seven Lower School students that prayed to receive Christ. We had six students in the Upper School chapel that were baptized in December.” Carol Grosshans, vice president of education at Foundation Academy, spoke to the audience about the numerous milestones Foundation Academy has seen over the past year, including the start of kindergarten classes on the new Lakeside campus, enrollment reaching a record number of 900 students and the Class of 2019 receiving more than $4 million in academic and athletic scholarship opportunities. “This year’s senior class is almost halfway there already in the awards they have received so far this year, just in academic awards,” Grosshans said. She added that Foundation Academy plans to expand its robotics program in both the Lower and Upper School, along with starting a new television production program for the Upper School where students can create a daily school news program. There’s much to come in the near future, Grosshans said. “Sculpting by the master is not always an easy thing, and at times it can be uncomfortable,” she said. “As an administrative team, we are excited to see his continued refinement. … We are not perfect — we are still in pro-

cess — however, God has a master plan, and our desire is to be found faithful as a place where academic excellence and spiritual growth is the start of building a foundation for life.” Foundation Academy President Dave Buckles concluded the evening with exciting news: the Upper School is in for permitting on new roads, parking and a new weight room for the gymnasium. “It’s been a lot of work, but just think — dreams become reality and the vision becomes clearer,” Buckles said. “I look at Foundation Academy as a type of a sculpture,” he said. “As we continue to refine what we’re currently doing and our four pillars — faith, academics, fine arts and athletics — we will continue to strive to be one of the best schools in Central Florida. As a sculptor in the world of education, we’ll be creating a masterpiece — and that masterpiece will be your son or daughter or grandchild to be a child of God. … Thank you for allowing all of us to play a part in your child’s life.” Buckles said after the presentation that the school also is currently in the design phase for a 17,000-square-foot classroom addition that will have two science rooms, a band/drama room and eight classrooms.

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2020

OBSERVER SCHOOL ZONE

Ocoee Middle serves up cafeteria upgrades The dining space has been upgraded to look more like a food court as part of an OCPS pilot program. ERIC GUTIERREZ STAFF WRITER

Ocoee Middle School’s cafeteria received a new look earlier this school year. The once-blank walls have been adorned with new murals and artwork to add a splash of color to the school’s dining space. A cardinal — the school’s mascot — shares a wall with depictions of a keyboard and a basketball. The silhouette of a trumpet sits against a brick-wall background, and the walls outlining the stage have been painted red. Even the long lunch tables have been replaced with high-tops, round tables and other more modern seating arrangements. The new seating even increased the seating capacity from 480 to 530. “Meal times are the No. 1 social event for our students,” said Javier Vazquez, senior administrator of Food and Nutrition Services at Orange County Public Schools. “Our students are aware of the atmosphere of their eating environment. By making a few changes it brings the students into the cafeteria where they can also participate in an awesome meal service.” Students, administrative officials and Food and Nutrition management staff all provided input when it came to coming up

with the designs for the remodel of the cafeteria. OCPS engaged with a focus group of about 20 to 30 students of different grades to see what design concepts they wanted in their dining space, Vazquez said. “The design of the school’s (cafeteria) was based on the meetings we had with the student focus and the meetings we had with the administrators at the school,” he said. “Based on the meetings, what we decided to do was select things that the school was involved in — the icons that pretty much identify programs that the school is involved in when it comes to technology, drama (and) music. Then, we also had our graphic designer who added their touch.” The new design of the dining space makes it look more like a mall food court or the dining room of a restaurant rather than traditional school cafeteria. The goal of the remodeled cafeterias is to see if the new look of the dining spaces can make a change within the student environment and offer students a dining that is more comforting that a traditional cafeteria. “The idea is to try to engage the students in what they are familiar with, and what we mean by that is if you look at the chain (restaurants) where these

The walls were plain and bare before the Ocoee Middle School cafeteria was remodeled.

Courtesy photos

Murals representing different programs and the school mascot now adorn the walls of the Ocoee Middle School cafeteria.

students go to eat … this is the type of atmosphere that they’re providing to their customers,” Vazquez said. “We want to be able to provide that same atmosphere — not just from the food courts but from (restaurants).” The cafeteria at Ocoee Middle School isn’t the only dining space that has received some recent upgrades. Last year, OCPS remodeled the high school cafeterias with similar concepts to give them a new look. For this

school year, the district has initiated a pilot program to remodel the cafeterias of Ocoee, Corner Lake and Innovation middle schools. If the pilot program is successful, it could expand to include other middle schools in the district, Vazquez said. “We actually updated all high schools and have seen that the students in most schools have enjoyed the cafeteria makeover, where we have noticed an increase in participation by

almost 7%,” Vazquez said. “Pending review of the results of the pilot, we hope to expand the other (middle schools).” The cost to remodel the Ocoee Middle School cafeteria was just less than $300,000. The project was funded through the OCPS Food and Nutrition Services fund, funded by the United States Department of Agriculture.

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SPORTS

Korey Karbowsky is a member of Ocoee High’s wrestling and football teams. Page 18.

HIGH

Geaux 5

In Foundation Academy girls soccer’s 8-0 thrashing of Lake Mary Prep Friday, Jan. 17, freshman Kaitlyn Clark had her game of the year as she scored a whopping five goals for the Lions. In the Lions’ previous game — a 8-0 win over Father Lopez Tuesday, Jan. 14 — Clark scored four goals.

The Dr. Phillips girls weightlifting team dominated in the Metro West Conference meet Friday, Jan. 17, to win the metro title. The Panthers won all 10 weight classes and were led by Destinee Alford (199-pound class), who lifted a combined weight of 335 pounds (170 bench, 165 clean and jerk), while Jada St. Cyr (183-pound class) lifted a total of 350 pounds (190 bench, 160 clean and jerk). In the unlimited category, Ty Smith lifted a whopping 400-pound total (230 bench, 170 clean and jerk).

In Central Florida Christian Academy boys basketball’s 70-53 blowout win over Vanguard Thursday, Jan. 16, sophomore point guard Riley Kugel went off for 20 points. Senior small forward Jajuan Preaster added 16 points, while senior wing Nicolas Silva went for 15 points.

In Windermere Prep boys basketball’s 62-53 win over Lake Minneola Wednesday, Jan. 15, junior center Elijah Hulsewe had himself a night as he picked up the double-double of 18 points and 12 rebounds in the Lakers’ 13th victory. Fanbo Zeng also kept his impressive season going as he racked up 18 points, seven rebounds and five blocks.

TIME TROY HERRING SPORTS EDITOR

very time Bridget Dean walks onto the gym floor, she can feel the butterflies in her stomach. It doesn’t matter that she is now in her third year with the Louisiana State University gymnastics team — or that she has been in the sport since she was a child. It never changes. At LSU, there are high expectations of its gymnastics program — which currently sits at No. 2 in the country — so the need to perform with perfection is expected. Dean knows this, and she embraces the nerves that come with her sport. “I remember asking my mom about being nervous, and she was like, ‘If you’re not nervous, then you don’t love it,’” said Dean, a 2018 graduate of Olympia High. “It’s something I’m very passionate about and that’s what I love — it’s so much adrenaline, and I love that. Even though I’m a junior — and when I’m a senior — I know I’ll still get that feeling. “As you get older you’re able to control it more, but you’re still going to have that,” she said. “And in front of 13,000 fans?

Courtesy of LSU Athletics

Olympia alum Bridget Dean has found her place in the starting lineup for the LSU gymnastics team.

SEE DEAN PAGE 18

Lakers boys soccer claims SSAC state title Thanks to a hat trick from Gunnar Studenhofft, Windermere Prep continued their undefeated season with the program’s first SSAC title.

The First Academy boys soccer team had an impressive showing from senior Brett Kelly during the Royals’ 6-1 victory over The Master’s Academy Monday, Jan. 13. Kelly picked up the hat trick for the Royals, while teammates Nick Garcia, Ben Barrett and Matthew Barrett picked up a goal apiece. Since then, the Royals have won three more games, pushing their win streak to six games.

TROY HERRING SPORTS EDITOR

No matter how good of a team you are, you will be tested. Those were words Windermere Prep boys soccer coach Jonathan Griffiths delivered to his team. The scoreboard in the corner of the end zone read 4-2 in Windermere Prep’s favor over All Saints Academy in the Sunshine State Athletic Conference state final Friday, Jan. 17. Despite the lopsided score, the game was much tighter — especially in the first half — and Griffiths made note of the significance of the late-season test in the team’s post-match breakdown. “Listen up — it’s the first time all year that we have been challenged,” Griffiths said. “It’s going to be a battle if you want to win district — it’s going to be like that. You have to keep working hard all game. … You have to keep up momentum now.” Coming into Friday’s title game, the Lakers (12-0) had dominated all season — outscoring opponents 77-10 — and sat at a perfect 11-0 thanks to talent in every position

Photo by Troy Herring

The Lakers are now 12-0 as they head toward the end of the regular season.

SEE LAKERS PAGE 18

SPORTS SPOTLIGHT

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2020

Dean finds success at LSU Korey Karbowsky SPONSORED BY MARK’S FLOORS

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 17

A four-year member of the Ocoee High School wrestling team, Korey Karbowsky has been a force on the mat for the Knights. Along with his knack for wrestling, Karbowsky also played football for Ocoee High as a center and long snapper.

When did you get into wrestling and how did you get into the sport? I wanted to play tackle football in elementary, and my dad was like, ‘OK, let’s do a physical sport before you go into tackle football.’ So in the middle of first grade, I started wrestling at a small gym in Eustis, then I wrestled club … then wrestled (at Ocoee) since I was a freshman. What is the biggest change you’ve seen in yourself since you first started wrestling? Wrestling in the lower levels — when you’re younger — is a very different style than high school, but the biggest thing for me is my weight. I wrestled at 138 and 145 — I bounced around there my freshman year — then my sophomore year I got injured, but last year I was up to 220, so it’s just a stylistic change between 138 and 220. What has been your favorite thing about wrestling at Ocoee? Just the friends you make from being in there all the time with your teammates — just hanging out with them all the time. Even after wrestling practice, we’ll go and hang out a lot during the weekends. What is the toughest aspect of competing in a match? In a tournament, it might be that first match for both of them, because I get butterflies even if I know it is someone I should beat. But then, also, once you finish that match you just feel so much better — you’re relaxed and confident.

THE BASICS

SCHOOL: Ocoee High YEAR: Senior AGE: 17 SPORT: Wrestling WEIGHT CLASS: 220

have a lot of muscle on me, so winning that did a lot for my confidence, because I was wrestling varsity and I was wrestling these big seniors. Winning that just boosted me. How do you mentally overcome obstacles that you come across in wrestling? When you get into the wrestling room you just have to practice, practice, practice the basics — you just have to focus on those. If you just trust the basics — trust your techniques — you’ll get over it. What is the most difficult technique to master in wrestling? I would say, in general, neutral — there’s a lot more to neutral than top and bottom. For neutral, you have your setups, you’ve got the takedown itself and you’ve got the finishes, so neutrals is a bit more complicated than the others. Do you have a favorite technique? I like top. I love wrestling top, and it drives my coach insane sometimes, because you’re not really supposed to choose top — you’re supposed to choose bottom and then get to top or neutral and get the takedown. But I like choosing top, because I’m pretty confident in my pinning ability.

Is there a highlight moment for you during your time at Ocoee? It felt good my freshman year when I won ninth and 10th grade Metros. I was small — I was 138 pounds — and I didn’t

— TROY HERRING

Athlete of the Week sponsored by:

That’s something you don’t have in (Junior Olympics).” Those nerves never appear to manifest outside of Dean’s stomach based on what she has done so far this season on bars, beam and floor for the Tigers. In the Tigers’ most recent meet against Auburn University Friday, Jan. 17, Dean stuck her landings in both beam and bars, earning her the honor of wearing the team’s “stick crown.” That crown has gotten a lot of use; LSU is off to a 3-0 start in the 2020 season. Being able to make a difference on a nationally renowned team is a dream come true for Dean, who has worked tirelessly to get to where she is today. That’s why it’s hard to believe she almost called it quits a few years ago. THE GREATEST OBSTACLE

Dean’s gymnastics career began at 5 years old. She was an energetic child who swung from tree branches and learned how to do flips in the backyard with her mother, Kim, also a gymnast. By the time Dean was 10 years old, she and her mother moved to the Ocoee area from Fort Myers to train at Orlando Metro Gymnastics. Dean became a Level 10 gymnast by the time she was a junior at Olympia. She competed in the

2013 P&G Championships, the 2013 Nastia Liukin Cup and the 2015 J.O. National Championship. Everything was going perfectly for Dean at the time — she had become a top gymnast who already had the offer to compete at LSU. But during her senior year at Olympia, she suffered a lower-back injury. “I don’t know what I did, but it was a nagging thing that I could not heal,” Dean said. “So I took off an entire year of gymnastics, because I didn’t even know if I could do gym again. I mentally almost quit from gymnastics, and I didn’t think I would be able to go to LSU.” Luckily for Dean, the coaching staff at LSU still wanted her on the team, so after graduating she made her way to Baton Rouge in the fall of 2018. Although her back still needs warming up and some attention to this day, Dean finally was able to return to highlevel competition during her first year at LSU. “Nothing seemed to help until I got up here, and we started working on my flexibility and my upper back, and that completed changed the game for my back,” Dean said. “It was my upper back that was pulling on my lower back.”

FROM ALTERNATE TO STARTER

Taking a year off from a sport is

tough for any athlete, and it set Dean back when she arrived at LSU. Although she had spent the summer training, she still was out of shape. Dean had the chance during the preseason to work on her strength, but she landed a team alternate spot for beam and bars — although she didn’t get a chance to compete. “I was honestly shocked that I made the alternate for bars and beam, because I was so far behind,” Dean said. “And I wanted to be in the lineup, but at the same time, I want to do whatever is best for LSU.” It was frustrating for Dean, but her patience paid off in the long run. She exploded onto the scene during her sophomore year. She scored career highs in bars, beam and floor, including clutch showings on bars and beam during the NCAA Second Round and Regional Final. She also scored a 9.8625 on beam during the NCAA team championships — where LSU finished runner-up. The year was full of highlights for Dean, but that’s all behind her as she hopes to push her team further this season. “My heart and head are just set on doing whatever I can do to help my team win a national championship, because this group of girls deserves it,” Dean said. “We are so hungry for this national championship.”

Lakers continue winning ways CONTINUED FROM PAGE 17

on the field. And out of the gate, it seemed the Lakers once again would steamroll their way to an easy win and the program’s first SSAC boys soccer title. Three minutes in, senior Gunnar Studenhofft was taken down in the box — leading to a penalty kick. Unexpectedly, however, Studenhofft’s shot missed wide and left the game knotted at 0-0 early. It wouldn’t take the Lakers long to regain composure. Ninety seconds later, Studenhofft once again found himself in scoring position, but his shot careened off the hands of the Saints’ goalie before junior Jose Lopez headed the ball into the back of the net to give Windermere Prep the early 1-0 advantage in the fifth minute of play. Over the next 28 minutes, the Lakers only found another chance or two, while the Saints finally began to settle into the game before finding the push they needed. With 12:02 left in the half, the

Saint were able to break through Windermere Prep’s backline. Senior Charles Rodes snuck the ball past goalie Carlo Moran to tie the game at 1-1. That score held until halftime. “It was tough,” Griffiths said. “We had been dominating possession in the first 20 minutes, so when they came back to 1-1, it kind of shifted momentum to the other side.” The Saints continued their momentum coming out of the locker room with a chance on goal fewer than two minutes into the half, but the Lakers responded accordingly when Studenhofft scored the first of his three goals in the half a minute later to push Windermere Prep back in front at 2-1. By the 63rd minute, Studenhofft had collected his hat trick to give the Lakers the comfortable 4-1 lead — helped by a change of strategy, Griffiths said. “Second half, we played a lot quicker going forward rather than possessing sideways and backwards,” Griffiths said. “We played two up top — we changed

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formation second half, so that kind of helped us because they had the two guys marking Gunnar, and then putting that extra guy up top kind of confused them.” The Lakers conceded one last goal by Jackson Gurr in added time, but by then the game already was sealed. Windermere Prep finally won the SSAC. The win is a big one for the program, but the season is far from over. There still are two games left in the regular season, and then it’s time for district play — as well as the FHSAA state tourney. There is a lot to take away from Friday’s game, but there were two things that stood out to Griffiths as the season marches toward its end. “I take away that in the second half we played as a team — we were all on the same game plan,” Griffiths said. “And then keeping everybody healthy is going to be the big factor for us... keeping our attackers healthy will definitely help us when we go into the postseason.”

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WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2020

Local cheer squads conquer regional Ocoee High, Foundation Academy and West Orange High will travel to Gainesville to participate in the FHSAA state championships. TROY HERRING SPORTS EDITOR

The competitive cheer season may be winding down, but a few local schools ramped up their game and won some hardware Saturday, Jan. 18. At the regional competition — held at Hudson High School — Foundation Academy (large nontumbling division) and Ocoee High (small non-tumbling division) walked away with regional championships in their respective divisions, while West Orange’s (medium all-girl division) finished in fifth-place and notched a spot in the state semis thanks to a solid score. But the season doesn’t stop there, as all three schools will make their way up to Gainesville to compete in the state championships Friday, Jan. 31, and Saturday, Feb. 1, at the Stephen C. O’Connell Center. Ocoee will go straight into the finals, while West Orange and Foundation start in the semifinals since they did not score a 70 or better at regionals. OCOEE OVERCOMES OBSTACLES

Fewer teams in the area have had a tougher season than the girls cheer squad at Ocoee High School. Throughout the competitive

season, the Knights had numerous struggles, including having girls leave out of the blue. The attrition forced head coach Kristin Johnson to drop her team from the medium non-tumbling division to the small non-tumbling division just a few weeks before competition. It was a change that was abrupt and a bit scary, especially considering that the program had become comfortable in the medium non-tumbling division — where it had won threeconsecutive regionals and a state title in 2018. “It was definitely a nervewracking day for us,” Johnson said. “We’ve had a pretty crazy season — so to speak.” The small non-tumbling division also is the biggest of all the divisions with 15 total teams. Despite the anxiety and breakdowns leading into the competition, Johnson’s team never wavered, nor showed its stress physically as the Knights dominated the competition — turning in a score of 82.2. “After everything they’ve been through this season — athletes leaving last minute, the negativity that some people put on them — they said they were not going to let that take them down,” Johnson said.

File photos

FOUNDATION WINS FIRST REGIONAL

While Ocoee has established itself as a yearly contender, Foundation Academy is an up-and-coming program that made leaps and bounds on the mat this season. Under first-year head coach Rachel Carey, the Lions went into the regional with a chance to do something historic: win the school’s first regional title in cheer. They did just that in the large nontumbling division, as the Lions took first — scoring a 68.8. “The majority of the skills they

hit,” Carey said. “Now it’s just kind of fine-tuning the motions and making sure we have precision of skills from here on out.” The win was tremendous for moving the program forward, but Carey and the team already have their eyes set on states. “It’s really exciting, but I think right now we are in the mindset that states are two weeks away,” she said.“We haven’t really kind of enjoyed and rejoiced in it yet. … Right now it’s kind of like, ‘Great, we won, now let’s get back to work.’” WEST ORANGE HITS ITS MARK

The Warriors went into Saturday’s competition on a bit of a low note after struggling in the Metro Championships Thursday, Jan. 16, which forced the team to reflect and work on its routine. “We didn’t do fantastic, so with the limited amount of time in between the two competitions we

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decided to meet yesterday morning (Saturday) to be a little more comfortable with what we were changing,” head coach Alicia Light said. Despite the tough week leading up to the competition, the Warriors managed to finish in fifth place among seven teams in the medium all-girl division. Luckily, West Orange’s score of 68.4 was good enough to push the team into the state semifinals — thanks to hitting above a score of 60. Now that West Orange has a spot reserved at states, it’s time to start ramping things up, because the Warriors have nothing left to lose, Light said. “Up until this point you play it safe to a certain degree... you don’t want to push it too much where you’re not going to qualify,” Light said. “But moving to states it’s an all or nothing kind of thing … so now we really have to up the intensity in difficulty.”

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OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2020

West Orange flies past Windermere in win G oing into the Jan. 15 game, the West Orange boys basketball team knew it had to come out firing in its rivalry matchup with Windermere. The team did just that — and more. In front of a packed gym, the Warriors (10-6) picked up an impressive 71-58 blowout over the Wolverines (11-6) — the first win for the Warriors over their rivals since the team’s first meeting early in the 201718 season. The Warriors hit early and often — jumping out to a 20-9 lead by the end of the first quarter. The Wolverines settled in a bit in the second quarter and cut the Warriors’ lead to single digits with 2:15 left thanks in part to junior guard Kanye Jones’ 12 points and junior point guard Trey Moss’ seven points. Jones finished the night with 16 points; Moss finished with a team-high 17 points. Unfortunately for the Wolverines, the Warriors were able to keep their foot on the pedal to take a 37-24 lead into the break. Junior guard/small forward Mike McCalister’s 12 points and senior guard Garrison Smith’s 12 points contributed to that early lead. McCalister went on to score a game-high 24 points. The Warriors’ domination continued well into the second half before the Wolverines were able to whittle the lead down to single digits at 56-47

Marcus Allen, right, celebrated with Jonas Polynice during Wednesday’s game.

West Orange’s Jonas Polynice went to the basket against Windermere’s Matt Richardson.

with 3:49 left in the fourth quarter. The Wolverines’ hopes of a comeback were dashed not long after, as the Warriors picked up the pace and finished

strong — outscoring Windermere 15-4 over the last threeand-one-half minutes to seal the win.

Jonas Polynice fought hard for this basket.

— TROY HERRING

313622-1

GAME FILM

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

ACROSS

1 “Cool!” 6 Church doctrine 11 Landlocked African country 15 Truth’s counterpart 19 Where vows are taken 20 Goofed 21 One may beep when it’s ready 22 Employs 23 [ ] AL, [ ] AK, [x] AR, [ ] AZ 26 Popular pens 27 Binary digit

28 YouTuber’s journal 29 Jai ___ 30 Lecterns 31 Aswan Dam river 34 NJ or N.J. 38 Salon fiascoes 42 ___ Might Be Giants (rock band) 43 Common people, with “the” 44 ... IX) OR, X) PA, XI) RI ... 46 Vaccination 48 They get more annoying as they grow up 49 Disapproving cluck 50 Went hog wild at

mealtime 56 Drug cops 58 Joker 59 “And there you have it!” 60 1988 No. 1 hit for The Beach Boys 65 MO $$$70 Textbook example 72 Ram’s sound 73 Watergate, e.g. 74 ... CT, DE, ??, GA, HI ... 79 Origami fold 80 Sass, slangily 81 Take a stab at 82 Gabbana’s partner 84 Like jeans and a blazer

118 Big sandwich 119 NY = MA = DE = NC = VA 124 Harvey ___ College 125 John, in Russia 126 ___ Hawkins Day 127 Twirled stick 128 Church recess 129 Gambling mecca near Tahoe 130 Minds, as advice 131 Oozes

89 Uncommon bill 90 Christmas dinner birds 95 Poet Pound 96 Second item in this list: o NM, o NV, o NY 99 Goddess of wisdom 103 Friend in battle 104 Junk email senders 105 Choice between OK and not now 109 Period of time 110 Land parcel 111 Tilt 112 Miami squad 115 Uber driver’s aid, briefly

54 Notions 55 CBS anchor King 56 Longtime pitcher Hideo 57 Weeps 60 “Hyperion” poet John 61 Poppy product 62 Somewhat, informally 63 Furry aquatic mammal 64 Sun. follower 66 Cry from a baby monitor 67 Minute ___ orange juice 68 Behold, in Latin DOWN 69 Deface 1 Inverse of giga71 Spanish 101 verb 2 Panache 75 ___ Major 3 Partygoer 76 Big Apple sch. 4 T, on frat row 77 Punishment for binge5 Bruins legend Bobby watching, perhaps 6 Small valley 78 Cary of “The Princess 7 Thereabouts Bride” 8 Shorthand inventor 83 Part of BBC (Abbr.) 9 ___ B, aka Scary Spice 85 Core belief 10 Fruity drink suffix 86 Business mogul 11 Like a ragtag crew 87 At an angle 12 Related to birds 13 Fourth of 13 same-named 88 Spirited song 90 Fictional Forrest popes 91 Isle of Napoleon’s exile 14 Rustic lodging 92 Stretch out 15 Author W.E.B. 16 Remarks to the audience 93 Filming location 94 Vulcans or Klingons, for 17 Quote from memory short 18 You may write them on 97 Strong cleaner books 98 Moisten, as poultry 24 Declares 25 Rhythmic, like drumbeats 99 Reason to use an inhaler 100 Ripped to shreds 30 Jabber 101 Stockpiles 32 Apple tablet 102 Make a cryptogram, say 33 Webcam part 103 Deeply regretful reply 35 Off-roader, briefly 106 Speared garnish 36 Perlman of “Cheers” 107 Aired again 37 Run ___ (go berserk) 108 ___ Island 38 Present topper 113 Oklahoma city 39 Whiz 114 Matures 40 Like a clue about clues 116 Small splash sound 41 Disparaging remarks 117 Figs. on some wallet 45 Engrave cards 46 Blinds segment 119 Fragrant evergreen 47 Some weather forecast 120 Burnt residue extremes 121 Fannie ___ 51 She-sheep 122 NFL passers 52 Make amends 123 Dubai’s place, for short 53 Chinese animal with zebra colors

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Willie J. Fulmore Owner

UPGRADES & REPAIRS

We make Old Fashioned, Texas Style BBQ! 323874

A portion of the profits help to fund Homeless Women and Children.

17436 7th Street • 407-469-0060 Montverde, FL 34756

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK • 8AM - 5PM

Open Friday and Saturday • 11 am until 7 pm

VIRUS & SPYWARE WinterREMOVAL Garden’s Premier Roofing Company Since 1978 Serving All of West Orange County DATA & PASSWORD Fully Licensed and Insured Roof Repairs and Replacement RECOVERY 407-656-8920 WIRELESS & WIREDWestOrangeRoofing.com NETWORKING FREE ESTIMATES

CONSTRUCTION

• All Engines $200.00 each • All Transmissions $100.00 each • Tires $15.00 and up • Batteries $25.00 • Warranties on all parts sold!

Serving Central Florida Since 1972

323883

www.budgetupullit.com

GET YOUR NAME

327938

Residential & Commercial Construction Rick Weber ‧ Brooks Weber License #CBC1253779

407-656-4707

NEW CONSTRUCTION INTERIOR BUILDOUTS

Make Your Phone Ring

Office: 352-394-5364 weberbuild.com

Team Up With Classifieds

407-656-2121

635 W. Hwy 50, Clermont weber @weberbuild.com

OUT THERE! Advertise your business

in The Observer Business Directory Call 407-656-2121 to advertise

Your ad here!

407-656-2121

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 21, 2019

WICK'S TRAYRA GE

FLOORING

AUTO SERVICE

TFN

PET

R From CA talled

ter Garden 1045 S. Vineland Rd. •Win ment • New and Used Tires • Align • Complete Auto Repair • A/C Serv. & More

407-656-1817

OPERATED –

.6268 407.296.9622 407.877 .rr.com

: gsairsystems@cfl www.gsairsystems.com email #CAC1814407

• Quality • Service • Sales • Installation • Commercial • Residential

License

Battery Testing and Replacement

on Call for a FREE estimate . Equipment Replacement d credit

We offer financing with approve

Transmission and Engine Repair

Scheduled Maintenance

Ray Cornell Jr. Doug Gallinger

301016

Licensed & Insured - State

Full

Working Owners

www.r-dauto.com

Computerized Diagnostics

WATERPROOF

930 Carter Rd #202 Winter Garden, FL 34787 Telephone: (407) 614-3827 rdtransautorepair@cfl.rr.com

407-614-5027

Ocoee, FL 34761 11159 W Colonial Dr. • ing.com IntegrityLaminateFloor

Estimates

3.3" x 1" starting at $25.00 3.3" x 2" starting at $30.00 3.3" x 4" starting at $50.00

HOME SERVICES

RS ORLANDO PREMIUM SHUTTErs! The best shutte The best prices! With the best warranty! Custom measured, designed, manufactured and installed by shutter experts.

WE BUY JUNK CARS WE BUY SCRAP METAL OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK • 8AM

CALL FOR YOUR FREE IN-HOME CONSULTATION TODAY!

Serving Orlando & Surrounding Areas

mShutters.com

emiu 407-415-7185 • OrlandoPr

- 5PM

PAINTING

407-656-4707

ww w.b udg etu pul lit. com

ONLY

89.95

302117

See store for details

SA LE Full Synthetic BR AK E PAD des s Oil Service BMW 3 Series Merce C-Clas

301027

STRESS

FREE

MADE IN THE USA

• All Engines $200.00 each each • All Transmissions $100.00 • Tires $15.00 and up • Batteries $25.00 • Warranties on all parts sold!

Financing

179.95 Mercedes E-Class $199.95

3 Business Card Sizes to choose from:

$ 99/ sq. ft.

FLOORING T E • WAT E R P R O O F CARPET • LAMINA

en, FL 34787

/ sq . ft.

Tires and Alignments

Tune-Ups and General Repair

In House Towing Available

881 S. 9th Street • Winter Gard

179.95 BMW 5 Series $199.95

3 59

...

Fully Installed From...

AUTO SERVICE

Includes up to 7 quarts of Full Synthetic Oil. Parts and Labor. Service includes: Front or Rear Pads, Expires 3/31/19. Not valid with any other offers. Tax and recycling fees are extra.

PEST CONTROL

Center” “Your Complete Service er Garden, FL 34787 10 West Story Rd. Wint MV-01095 REG#

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Phone 407-656-6646 on rd Hudson • Reggie Huds

301029

Full LAMIN y In stall ATE ed F rom

. ft.

9 / sq

s y In

301025

-FAMILY OWNED &

$...

301035

TFN

301021

AIR CONDITIONING

LV11098