01.30.20 Southwest Orange Observer by Orange Observer

SO U T H W EST O RA N G E

Observer Windermere, Horizon West, Dr. Phillips

YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.

VOLUME 5, NO. 18

YOUR TOWN SHOW FEATURES OLYMPIA TITANS Students in Olympia High School’s photography club, Shutter Society, are participating in an art display that showcases students’ works. The art show takes place from 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 9, at the East End Market boardroom, 3201 Corrine Drive, Orlando. Pieces include photography, ceramics, painting, drawing, jewelry and more.

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 30, 2020

Grape expectations Windermere Wine & Dine pleases palates under the stars. SEE PAGE 3.

County hosts meeting about Vineland Avenue Orange County’s Transportation Planning Division sought input from residents for the planned road widening. ERIC GUTIERREZ STAFF WRITER

A road widening is on the horizon for a stretch of Vineland Avenue in Southwest Orange County. Orange County leaders held the preliminary design study community meeting Thurs-

Unwelcome guests The home at 8269 Lookout Point Drive is one of two homes found in violation of Orange County code.

Tim Freed

SEE PROJECT PAGE 5

A LITTLE HOSPITALITY

Improvements coming for Hamlin interchange Residents soon will see a wider southbound ramp — along with new signals — at the State Road 429 and New Independence Parkway interchange. TIM FREED MANAGING EDITOR

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A new Central Florida Expressway Authority project is underway to make an interchange in the Hamlin area safer. Multiple improvements are in the works for the State Road 429 and New Independence Parkway

interchange, including widening the southbound State Road 429 exit ramp to New Independence Parkway and adding pedestrian and vehicle signals on New Independence Parkway at the State Road 429 ramps. Kathy Putnam, public informaSEE TRAFFIC PAGE 4

SPORTS

Residents in the Windermere Trails neighborhood are upset about numerous reported Airbnbs and other short-term rental services in the neighborhood. SEE STORY ON PAGE 4.

Young riders are learning some horse sense at Sunnybrook Farm in Winter Garden. SEE 11.

SOUTHWEST ORANGE OBSERVER

YOUR CALENDAR

THURSDAY, JAN. 30

FUEL, FUN, FITNESS 3:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 30, at the Windermere Branch Library, 530 Main St., Windermere. What are the best foods to eat to fuel your body before a fun workout? Get ready, eat a snack and get active. Recommended for lower and upper elementary. (407) 835-7323.

FRIDAY, JAN. 31

WRITING WORKSHOP WITH NIC STONE 3:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 31, at the Southwest Library, 7255 Della Drive, Orlando. Aspiring writers ages 11 to 18 can meet New York Times best-selling author Nic Stone as she presents this special writing workshop with tips to improve writing. (407) 835-7323.

SATURDAY, FEB. 1

STEVEN UNIVERSE SPECTACULAR 2:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 1, at the Southwest Library, 7255 Della Drive, Orlando. Snacks, music, crafts and more inspired by the world of Steven Universe and the Crystal Gems. Recommended for all ages. (407) 835-7323.

TUESDAY, FEB. 4

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 30, 2020

families. The author will sell and sign her books after lunch. Gift baskets and other items will be available in a silent auction and a raffle. Checks can be mailed to Julie’s Mission’s Author’s Luncheon, Patty Goonen, 2910 Marquesas Court, Windermere, FL 34786. Tickets are $30. (407) 234-8471. CAR SEAT SAFETY 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 4, at the Windermere Branch Library, 530 Main St., Windermere. Certified technicians from Safe Kids Orange County will be available to check car seats on a first-come, first-served basis. (407) 835-7323.

THURSDAY, FEB. 6

RETIRED EDUCATORS TO MEET 11:30 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 6, at College Park United Methodist Church, 644 W. Princeton St., Orlando. The February program is the annual potluck luncheon and 90-plus birthday celebration. Members are invited to bring a side dish to share. The program includes a musical performance by Winter Park High School a cappella singers. Anyone who has worked in education is invited to attend. (407) 843-6909; ocrea-fl.org.

AUTHOR’S LUNCHEON TO BENEFIT JULIE’S MISSION FRIDAY, FEB. 7 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. TuesGROCERY STORE TOUR day, Feb. 4, at St. Luke’s United 9 to 10 a.m. Friday, Feb. 7, at Methodist Church, 4851 S. a local grocery store to be Apopka Vineland Road, Orannounced. Do you know lando. Best-selling author which foods are the healthiest Patricia Gussin will discuss her choices? Do you know what to latest novel, “Coming Home.” look for on a food label? Join an The event is a fundraiser for Orlando Health dietitian for a Julie’s Mission, a nonprofit grocery store tour to learn how charity dedicated to providing to navigate the aisles and make for critically ill infants and their the healthiest choices for the 8318-130491 HCH Mako Print Ad - Observer Media.pdf 1 4/16/19 12:29 PM

family. Space is limited; RSVP required at (407) 407-3046.

SATURDAY, FEB. 8

ANGEL PAWS TO READ 11:30 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 8, at the Windermere Library, 530 Main St. Practice your reading skills by reading aloud to a lovable, furry listener. Be An Angel Therapy Dogs Ministry presents this reading program for children featuring certified therapy dogs. (407) 538-3124. OLYMPIA HIGH SCHOOL ART SHOW 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 9, at the East End Market boardroom, 3201 Corrine Drive, Orlando. Olympia High’s photography club, Shutter Society, is putting on an art display that showcases students’ works. Art pieces are for sale, cash only. There will be photography, ceramics, painting, drawing, jewelry, mixed media, sculpture, graphic design and more. 4804357493@students.ocps. net.

TUESDAY, FEB. 11

CLASSICAL MUSIC & PAINTING 6 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 11, at the Southwest Library, 7255 Della Drive, Orlando. Create guided abstract art while listening to classical music and letting it influence your art. Presented by Central Florida Community Arts. (407) 835-7323.

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 12

CUSTOM CANDLE FOR VALENTINE’S DAY 6 to 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 12, at the Windermere Library, 530 Main St. Create a customized hand-made gift

for a loved one or yourself with this carved-initials candle craft. All supplies will be provided, but you may bring additional candles to make more than one craft. For more information, call (407) 835-7323. HOMESCHOOL: SCIENCE OF LOVE 2 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 12, at the Windermere Library, 530 Main St. Participants may not be making love potions, but this event is sure to get their heart beating with fun science experiments and STEAM challenges. Recommended for elementaryage children. (407) 538-3124.

what to look for on a food label? Join an Orlando Health dietitian for a grocery store tour to learn how to navigate the aisles and make the healthiest choices for the family. Space is limited; RSVP required at (407) 4073046.

TUESDAY, FEB. 18

QIGONG MOVEMENT AND BREATHING 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 18, at the Southwest Branch Library, 7255 Della Drive, Orlando. Learn the techniques. For more information, call (407) 835-7323.

SATURDAY, FEB. 15

ORISIRISI AFRICAN FOLKLORE 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 15, at the Southwest Library, 7255 Della Drive, Orlando. Share the beauty of African life and culture through a unique folkloric performance filled with drumming, dance and storytelling. For more information, call (407) 835-7323.

MONDAY, FEB. 17

GROCERY STORE TOUR 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. Monday, Feb. 17, at a local grocery store to be announced. Do you know which foods are the healthiest choices? Do you know 324374-1

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 30, 2020

Amanda and Windermere Town Council Member Chris Sapp Left: Shelly and Windermere Police Chief Dave Ogden, and former Windermere Mayor Gary and Kay Bruhn

AMONG THE

GRAPES Kathy, Craig and Katie Lopus

Jennifer Martuscello, Ranee and Windermere Town Manager Robert Smith, and Liz Ellis

rom crab cakes and chili dogs to merlot and chardonnay, there was something for everyone at the seventh annual Windermere Wine & Dine. Held around the grounds of Windermere’s Town Hall, the annual event serves as a fundraiser for both local and Central Florida-based charities and organizations. This year, more than 1,200 participants perused the food and beverage offerings as they danced to music, socialized with friends and engaged in some bid wars during the silent auction. — DANIELLE HENDRIX

Jim and Oakland Mayor Kathy Stark

Kelli Woodall, Chris Adcock and Kerry Poole Rebekah Nilson, Becky Roper and Michael Soucy

SOUTHWEST ORANGE OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 30, 2020

An ongoing problem

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.”

TIM FREED MANAGING EDITOR

ne Horizon West neighborhood is searching for answers as a perceived influx of Airbnb and other short-term rental services has left community residents worried about their property values and quality of life. It started with a few tell-tale signs: large groups of cars outside of homes and unfamiliar faces throughout the neighborhood. “We moved here about three years ago, and as soon as we moved into the neighborhood, we knew something was a little bit different,” Windermere Trails resident Britt Beam said. “Moving to a new area, we didn’t know what to expect, and it seemed like everyone else was acting like it was normal and everything. We would see across the street these different 20-something-year-old kids coming in and out with suitcases all the time. We’re wondering, ‘Who are all of these people and why does every one of these houses that’s like this have like 10 cars out in front?’” Beam said she and other neighbors soon realized these weren’t Windermere Trails residents — they were tourists, often coming home with MagicBands and Disney balloons. The homes were being listed under Airbnb and other services. Windermere Trails resident Claudia Martinek, who has lived in the neighborhood for more than three years, said she also has noticed the short-term rentals — and it’s taking its toll on the neighborhood. Martinek has seen trash strewn all over within the pool area, as well as damage to the pool umbrellas and chairs. “The people just come for a couple of days and party here — they don’t take care of anything,” Martinek said. “When you come to the pool with your kids, there’s sometimes hordes of people that you have no idea where they come from, because you know there’s not families around with 50 teenagers. “It’s our investment, it’s our neighborhood, it’s our property and the people that come here to party use it as a party house basically,” she said.

TAKING ACTION

Angela Cacciola, president of the master and phase one Windermere Trails Home Owners Association, said steps have been taken to address the issue. With three sub HOAs and a master HOA, there was confusion early about who should be addressing the problem, Cacciola said.

Friedrich Hayek

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

Tim Freed

The home at 8961 Lookout Point Drive is one of two homes found in violation of Orange County code.

In early 2019, the association partnered with its attorney to send a notice restating its rules at the master association level, including that no area of a lot or dwelling shall be used for the purpose of renting rooms and that the neighborhood is not accepting any leases shorter than a year. “According to our counsel, that then gives us the ability that if we see that there’s a short-term rental going on we can go through our attorney and they have a process for dealing with it in addition to calling the county,” Cacciola said. She added the HOA continues to get tips about potential short-term rentals in the neighborhood — about one every six to eight weeks. Orange County has been made aware of the issue, as well. Robert Spivey, manager of Orange County’s code enforcement division, said short-term rentals are not allowed in single-family residential districts, including communities such as Windermere Trails. That includes “transient rentals” — defined as a single-family dwelling renting or leasing for 30 days or fewer, which is only allowed in multi-family districts — and “short-term rentals” — defined as hotels, motels and

“It’s our investment, it’s our neighborhood, it’s our property and the people that come here to party use it as a party house basically.” — Claudia Martinek, Windermere Trails resident

time-shares renting for 179 days or less, which is only allowed in commercial or industrially zoned areas in unincorporated Orange County. According to a county frequently asked questions document about short-term vacation rentals, HOA regulations are allowed to be more restrictive than county code. If the county code allows a property as a vacation rental, but the HOA doesn’t, the HOA restrictions would prohibit the rental. However, the county isn’t responsible for enforcing any private HOA restrictions. Spivey said there currently are four houses under scrutiny of violating the law in Windermere Trails. Two homes have been notified of proven violations and warned of potential fines, while two more houses have been reported by residents, but violations haven’t been proven yet, Spivey said. There could be more, but Spivey admitted it is difficult to stay on top of every house listing online. Rather, it is up to the residents to report what they see, he said. “They would have to hire me a dozen people — I’d have to have a housing division,” Spivey said. “Think about all of the listings out there. It would be an enormous task to try to go after these places. We do respond to complaints and generally we can figure it out.” To have the biggest impact in getting rid of an illegal short-term rental, Spivey said residents should call 311 or use the 311 app and send code enforcement a screenshot of the short-term rental listing. “When we have that, we can get a conviction,” he said. “People know that we’re looking — they employ deceptive practices. It may be that you can’t get to a physical address or a picture of the property until

you actually use a credit card and reserve a unit. We’re in no position to do that. At any rate, the listings change. We have some difficulty sometimes being able to pinpoint, so when people see that listing, send it to us.” Once Orange County determines a house is in violation, a notice is issued and the property owner can be subject to a fine of up to $1,000 a day, Spivey said. Spivey noted that, although it can be a problem in some areas, the county has only issued about 100 notices over the past three years. It does typically happen more in West Orange, though, because of the proximity to the theme parks, he said. Martinek said she hopes the county can help to intervene in the short-term rental problem in Windermere Trails. “In one way, I feel really bad, because it’s probably someone who tries to have a livelihood — it’s just you have to do it the correct way,” Martinek said. “If you want to invest somewhere, you need to invest where it’s legal and not illegal. I do hope that something happens — if there is a law against having this here, somebody should make sure that the law is followed, because I try to follow the law.” “The reason we invested in a house in Windermere particularly was because it wasn’t Kissimmee — Kissimmee is more touristy, there’s a lot more traffic, there’s a lot more people in and out,” Beam said. “It’s just a little disheartening.” Spivey said Orange County Commissioner Betsy VanderLey is asking for a work session before the County Commission to discuss short-term rental issues. There is no date set yet, Spivey said.

Traffic, pedestrian signals coming CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

tion officer for the Central Florida Expressway Authority, said construction for the $2.3 million project may involve closing lanes overnight, but not entire roads — traffic will still be able to get off the southbound ramp. “The work at this interchange is really to improve traffic flow at that interchange and improve mobility for traffic on New Independence Parkway for both vehicles and pedestrians under State Road 429,” Putnam said. The widening of the southbound ramp will allow for more capacity, cutting down the number of cars

backing up along State Road 429, Putnam said. “You see all these signs for ‘new homes coming’ — they’re either under construction or the signs are up for new homes coming,” Putnam said. “Obviously, with the homes being built … there are going to be more cars. This helps take cars off of the mainline — the through traffic.” Nicholas McGee, general manager of Bosphorous Turkish Cuisine near the interchange, said cars typically get backed up along both the northbound and southbound ramps during rush hour on week days. Widening the southbound lane would certainly help, he said.

“They’ll be able to double up on vehicles … it’ll be side by side instead of single file,” McGee said. “It takes about five minutes (during rush hour) if you’re in the back of the line to get to the front of the line.” New signals should make the interchange safer for pedestrians and vehicles alike, Putnam said. “Just with the amount of traffic that’s coming, it will really help with traffic just being able to get through that area,” she said. “Obviously, when you have a traffic signal and a pedestrian signal, it’s much more convenient and safer for people to be able to walk in an area.”

Putnam said the project should be completed by late spring. According to the Central Florida Expressway Authority website, work could be delayed by weather and other unforeseen circumstances. Motorists are urged to use caution in the construction area for their safety and that of the work crews. “We love projects like this because they’re quick and they have a great impact for the folks that will be using that ramp and that interchange,” said Brian Hutchings, senior communications specialist for the Central Florida Expressway Authority said.

Managing Editor / Tim Freed, tfreed@OrangeObserver.com Design Editor / Jessica Eng, jeng@OrangeObserver.com Community Editor / Amy Quesinberry, amyq@OrangeObserver.com Sports Editor /Troy Herring, therring@OrangeObserver.com Associate Editor / Danielle Hendrix, dhendrix@OrangeObserver.com Staff Writer / Eric Gutierrez, egutierrez@OrangeObserver.com Multimedia Advertising Executives / Ann Carpenter, acarpenter@OrangeObserver.com Cyndi Gustafson, advertising@OrangeObserver.com Terri Hope, thope@OrangeObserver.com Creative Services Lindsay Cannizzaro, lcannizzaro@OrangeObserver.com Advertising Operations Manager / Allison Brunelle, abrunelle@OrangeObserver.com Office Coordinator / Accounting Ashley McWilliams, amcwilliams@OrangeObserver.com

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OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 30, 2020

Project would widen Vineland segment tive is the third option, to utilize an eastern shift of the road with a reduced median to widen it. “What that would provide from a congestion standpoint is a level of service D … which is within the county’s target,” Scott said. “It’s the least expensive (and) property impact is the least.” No matter which build alternative is selected, the widening project also will bring some enhanced safety features like a raised median, extended sidewalks, more lighting, more signage, a curb and gutter, and an intersection at Little Lake Bryan Parkway.

Tooth Fairy? More like Tooth Phony!

MICHAEL ENG EDITOR & PUBLISHER

s a dad, I know my primary duty in this world is to keep my wife and children safe. Before we go to bed every night, I check on all three kiddos to make sure they are sleeping soundly. Then, I check every door to the house and make sure all the car doors are locked, too. Some nights, after I make my rounds and crawl into bed, my wife will question whether I actually checked every door. So then, I am compelled to get up to check. Again. That’s why it’s always been a bit odd that I’m forced to be OK with the likes of the Easter Bunny, Santa Claus and the Tooth Fairy. First of all, I have no idea how they’re actually getting into my house. But like clockwork, as soon as our oldest was born, they worked their magic, tucking little toys, candies and assorted goodies in baskets, under pillows and in stockings. They always seemed to bring such joy to our kids, so I have let their repeated unlawful entries into our home slide. But, our most recent run-in with the Tooth Fairy has me rethinking that blind eye. Two weekends ago, we had the parent trifecta of stress: one sleepover birthday party (away) followed by a second sleepover birthday party (hosted) and capped with a no-school Monday for Martin Luther King Jr. Day. The morning after the first slumber party and a few hours before the next was to begin, our daughter, Aria, came bounding into the kitchen. Guess what? she said, as she presented her first molar.

Of course, the Tooth Fairy does not visit during slumber parties, so I told her to place the tooth into a Ziploc bag for after the weekend. The weekend continued with the second slumber party and then a recovery day (for the kids; Mommy and Daddy still had to work) Monday. On Tuesday, we woke Aria early for school. She was particularly ornery — to be expected after a three-day weekend. We prodded a little at the breakfast table: Why are you in a bad mood? Are you just tired? All through breakfast, Aria had had that Ziploc bag balled into her fist. Incensed, she slammed it on the table — Sherlock Holmes style. We have LED bulbs, but somehow, they seemed to get hotter as she seared her stare into us. Sweat began to bead on my brow; I turned to my wife, hoping she had an alibi. Aria demanded answers, but we had none. The Tooth Fairy had not come. She kept claiming we were the Tooth Fairy and that we messed up. We stumbled for words, eventually convincing her to try again that night. Wednesday morning came. Thankfully, the Tooth Fairy did arrive, burgled the molar, left three mangled dollar bills and a letter on official Tooth Fairy stationery. Sure, there was an apology. But that twit also didn’t hesitate to throw my wife and me directly under the bus’ wheels. “Your parents have been very busy and forgot to send me the alert about your tooth,” she told our daughter. “I’m so sorry.” Rage pooled in my fists as I read the note, but instead of lashing out, I handed it back to Aria. “I’m just glad she visited,” I told her. And I was. Crisis, it seemed, had been averted. I turned to walk away. “Wait a minute,” Aria said. “So, you alert her? I didn’t know that. ... How do you alert her?”

“An optimistic time frame would be fourand-a-half years before we start construction …” — Greg Scott, Orange County Transportation Planning Division

The total cost of the project is estimated at $27.22 million; about $5.62 million would go toward actually widening the road and about $21.6 million would go toward the development of a

stormwater system. Developers will be footing some of the costs for the widening project, but the county will handle the rest. Additionally, the county does not yet possess all the rights of way required for the widening project. “An optimistic time frame would be four-and-a-half years before we start construction because it’ll probably be another four months before this (study) process is over, then we go into design,” Scott said. “It could take a couple of years to get through design, and then we’ve got to start procuring the rights of way, and that’s a couple more years.”

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day, Jan. 23, at the Basilica of the National Shrine of Mary, Queen of the Universe. The widening is planned for a 0.65 mile stretch of Vineland Avenue from the Marriott Village at Lake Buena Vista to the Basilica of the National Shrine of Mary. The segment of Vineland Avenue currently is a two-lane segment on a four-lane major collector. It includes stretches with a painted median or no median at all, no curb and gutter and has incomplete sidewalks and an S-curve. The segment of Vineland Avenue is operating over capacity, said Greg Scott, a principal planner in the Orange County Transportation Planning Division. “Currently, there’s just under 1,000 vehicles per hour (on Vineland Avenue) in the peak hours,” Scott said. “The capacity is 800

(vehicles per hour). In engineering lingo, that’s operating at the level of service F. The county has a level of service standard or target of E.” Scott added that there have been 123 crashes that occurred on this particular stretch of Vineland Avenue from January 2014 to December 2018. Of those crashes, 70% occurred at Little Lake Bryan Parkway and Vineland Avenue, and 20% occurred at portion of Vineland Avenue where the lanes drop from four lanes to two. The county plans to widen the road from two lanes to four lanes to increase the road’s capacity and help handle the traffic flow. There are four build alternatives for the widening project: no build; shifting the road westward and constructing a median; shifting the road eastward and constructing a median; or shifting the road eastward and building a narrow median. The preferred build alterna-

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OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 30, 2020

Reports of smoke near Hot yoga, other retail school raise concerns coming to Lakeside Village Orange County and the Florida Forest Service recently conducted an air quality assessment and compliance check in response to smoke around Water Spring Elementary. DANIELLE HENDRIX ASSOCIATE EDITOR

The presence of smoke around Water Spring Elementary and surrounding neighborhoods the week of Jan. 13 provoked concerns from some residents and parents. Yeskel Cortes-Larvenz, a parent at the school, posted on Facebook Jan. 15 regarding an abundance of smoke in the area due to construction. She added that it likely was unsafe for the children, especially those with asthma and other breathing problems. “Some of the kids have asthma as well and are being exposed to this,” Cortes-Larvenz said. “This can’t possibly be safe for anyone in that school or living around that area, and it’s not right that they have to deal with this due to construction.” Some responded that they had been having trouble breathing in the area as well. Others said it’s a commonplace issue in a growing area where land still is being cleared. Sean Gallagher, Orlando forestry district manager for the Florida Forest Service, said there is a burner adjacent to Water Spring Elementary. He added that the burn type was nonresidential land clearing for the purpose of development. Burning authorizations from the Florida Forest Service are required for agricultural, sil-

vicultural, land clearing, pile and acreage burning. Gallagher said the department received some smoke complaints Jan. 15 and the Florida Forest Service conducted a compliance check accordingly. “While he was found to be in compliance with applicable rules and statutes, we did place a wind restriction on him that should keep the smoke away from the school, should he choose to burn at that location again,” Gallagher said. “This was the only authorization requested for that property since June of 2019. … It is possible that on that date, this burner was sending smoke toward the school. I would further say that on any other day, the smoke would be coming from a longer distance away.” Orange County staff confirmed it had received some concerns about the smoke, and the Florida Department of Health in Orange County conducted a limited outdoor air quality assessment Jan. 16. The resulting report showed the area’s humidity, particle count, carbon monoxide and general air quality levels all were within normal range. “The air quality levels were within range, and they did not find anything out of the ordinary,” said Despina McLaughlin, public information officer for Orange County. Particle matter includes dust, smoke, pollen, animal dander,

tobacco smoke, particles generated from combustion appliances, and particles associated with small organisms like dust mites, mold, bacteria and viruses. According to the Florida Department of Health, the Environmental Protection Agency “is concerned about particles that are 10 micrometers in diameter or smaller,” because these are the particles that can pass through the throat and nose and into the lungs. A good air quality index level ranges numerically from 0 to 50, while the moderate level ranges from 51 to 100. A moderate range means the air quality is acceptable, but for some pollutants there may be a moderate health concern for “a very small number of people who are unusually sensitive to air pollution,” the report states. Only the second play area at the school had a moderate level of 56 — other parts of the campus and the construction site received a good air quality index. Michael Ollendorff, manager of media relations for Orange County Public Schools, said there was some smoke that the district’s office reported the week of Jan. 13. However, he said, there were no concerns as of press time. “There were no issues on (Water Spring’s) campus during that time period,” Ollendorff said. “On our campus, it was just a smell in the air.” Ollendorff said there has not been any specific notation of smoke in the area around the school since that week.

DANIELLE HENDRIX ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Those who live near Lakeside Village soon will be able to enjoy a hot yoga studio and other new businesses close to home. A new retail building, located at 11620 Lakeside Village Lane, has been in the works for a little more than a year now, according to Orange County documents. According to development plans, owner/developer Devin Hester — of Landover Windermere LLC — is building the one-story, 8,774-square-foot building on a 0.86-acre parcel. Hester declined to comment on the project. When completed, plans show the building will host five tenants. Burton Realty Group, whose team is serving as an owner’s representative, confirmed via Facebook that all spaces have been leased but tenants have not yet been announced. However, Angela Lopez, owner of Lagree Fitness Windermere, confirmed she is opening a hot yoga studio in the building. It will be called I Am Hot Yoga Windermere, and she said she signed the lease more than a year ago. “It’s a hot yoga studio, and our concept is that we really want to make it the equinox of yoga stu-

“It’s a hot yoga studio, and our concept is that we really want to make it the equinox of yoga studios, very high end and a really nice environment for them to be in.” — Angela Lopez

dios, very high end and a really nice environment for them to be in,” Lopez said. “We’re basically just leaving it open where it’s not just specific to traditional yoga … it’s an open environment.” Lopez, who hails from Los Angeles, has 12 years of fitness experience and opened Lagree Fitness in Lakeside Village a couple of years ago. She envisions I Am Hot Yoga as Lagree’s sister studio. “The plans have been in the works for a long time,” she said. “I feel that Lagree Fitness and hot yoga are the perfect marriage for longevity in your life. Coming from Los Angeles, I have an extensive history of boutique fitness and what works, and I found over the years that those two are just a perfect marriage. … It’s very low impact but very high intensity. It’s well balanced spiritually and physically to have both in your life.” Lopez said the building should be ready this spring and she cannot wait to bring a boutique yoga studio to residents in the area. “I think everybody’s just super excited that they’re going to have another high-end boutique fitness studio right in the area that they can just hop, skip and jump over to,” she said. “It’s close by Lagree as well, so people are really excited about being able to go to one and maybe just walk over to the other one afterward, because that’s the combo. “I’m most looking forward to giving the community a special haven, a sanctuary for them to heal,” she said. “That’s what I’m looking forward to the most, the change it’s going to bring to people’s lives.”

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JAMES RONALD “RON” KABA DIED JAN. 13, 2020.

James Ronald “Ron” Kaba, 85, of Ocoee, passed from this Earth on Mon. Jan. 13, 2020, at home after a brief battle with cancer. Ron was born Sept. 24, 1934, in Passaic, New Jersey, to Stephen and Margaret (Price) Kaba. He joined the United States Army in 1955 and served for eight years. He married Carolee Vogel on July 1, 1961. They moved their family to Central Florida in August 1976, and they have resided in Ocoee since 1977. Prior to retirement, he worked

for Orange County Public Schools as a maintenance painter, after which he became the neighborhood handyman. Ron enjoyed socializing, doing puzzles, painting and spending time with his family and beloved dog, Ginger. He never met a stranger and would talk to anyone he encountered.

THOMAS “TOM” OAKES DIED TUESDAY, DEC. 24, 2019.

On Tuesday, Dec. 24, 2019, Thomas “Tom” Oakes passed away at the age of 76 at his home in Winter Garden, Florida. Tom was born in Washington, D.C., Aug. 25, 1943, and lived in Maryland for 39 years before moving to Florida. He earned an Associate’s Degree and a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Information from the University of Maryland. Tom was a sports enthusiast, and he shared this love for sports with his children. He loved playing baseball as a child and playing softball as an adult and was an avid fan watching hockey, basketball, football and, most of all, baseball. He cheered with us through our college years rooting for the University of Maryland Terps, the Clemson Tigers and the

Florida Gators. He loved the Red Sox in the early years but was a true Washington fan — rooting for the Washington Capitals and enjoying their 2018 Stanley Cup victory followed by cheering on the Washington Nationals through every game on their way to their first-ever World Series Championship in 2019! Tom was a family-centered man — a loving father, a proud grandfather and a best friend to his brothers and sister. After retiring from the USPS, Tom could often be found having fun driving his golf cart with his son

Ron is preceded in death by his parents; and siblings, John, Joseph, Stephen, Margaret and Lorraine. He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Carolee; daughter, Leia; daughter, Sharon (David) Kull and their children, Tyler and Jamison; son, Christopher (Annick Mottie) and his children, Jessica and Chelsea, with their mother Ola; daughter, Kimberly; sister, Dolores Opalenik, and brother, Gerald (Diane) Kaba. DeGusipe Funeral Home, Ocoee in charge of arrangements. Expressions of sympathy may be made by visiting degusipe.com.

TJ and grandsons Connor and Chase. He is survived by his four children, Tracey Santos (Bearin), Tammy McBean (Jim), TJ Oakes (Lisa) and Justin Oakes (Laura); his five grandchildren, Hayden, Laney, Duncan, Connor and Chase; his sister, Barbara Hildreth (Ken); his brother, Ronnie Oakes; and sister-in-law, Elaine Oakes; as well as many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his younger brother, Richard Oakes. Services will be held at St. Joseph’s Church (11007 Montgomery Road, Beltsville, MD 20705) at 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 8. The family will host a Celebration of Life gathering immediately following the service at the Hampton Inn & Suites, (7045 Minstrel Way Columbia, MD 21046) until 7 p.m.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 30, 2020

EUNICE ALBERTA REED DIED THURSDAY, JAN. 23, 2020.

Eunice Alberta Reed, 82, a native of Oakland, departed this life Thursday, Jan. 23. Eunice, affectionately called Mubbie, was employed as a nurse for several years. She was a devoted mother, sister, grandmother and friend who will be deeply missed by all who knew her. She leaves to cherish loving memories of a life well lived: six children, Linda Nedd, Veronica Carrington, Vanetta Reed, Felicia Reed-Watt, Maurice Reed and Malcolm Reed; one sister; 14 grandchildren; and a host of other relaMARJORIE ANN NAGLE (NEE ALBRIGHT) DIED SATURDAY, JAN. 18, 2020.

On Jan. 18, 2020, we lost the most magnificent wife, mother and Meema who found beauty in the unusual and could create something out of nothing. Marjorie was born in Schenectady, New York, in 1934. She graduated from Nott Terrace High School and Katherine Gibbs Secretarial School in Boston, Massachusetts. She married Allan Nagle in June of 1955. Together they moved over 20 times both domestically and internationally. Marjorie was a bridge player, active in the WAIT Tennis League and a recreational golfer. She was a former presi-

tives and friends. Visitation will be held from 11 a.m. until services begin at 1 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 1, at Trinity Missionary Baptist Church, 122 Jefferson St., Oakland. Interment: Oakland Tildenville Cemetery. Postell’s Mortuary is providing service for the Reed family. dent of the HOA of Butler Bay, was a volunteer for West Orange Christian Service Center and trained acolytes at Windermere Union Church. She leaves behind Allan, her husband of 64 years; children, Kevin (Robin) Nagle, Charles Nagle, Cynthia (Steve) Gorman, Gregory (Christine) Nagle, Laura (David) Gehrenbeck; and nine grandchildren. What a joy she has been in our lives. A Celebration of Life ceremony will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 23, at Windermere Union Church. A reception to follow will be held at Windermere Town Hall. Those who so desire may make memorial donations in memory of Marjorie to Windermere Union Church.

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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. Holy Family’s goal is to collect 25,000 cans of food. The food pantry also can stretch dollars by purchasing fresh meat and canned food at a discounted rate. For more information about the collection and how to help, visit facebook.com/ SBOCHolyFamily.

It’s time for seniors to apply for the Wolverine Legacy Scholarship. Eligible candidates have demonstrated outstanding service and include those planning to attend four-year colleges and universities, two-year colleges or trade schools. The deadline is Friday, Jan. 31, and the application requires a short essay on “Leaving a Legacy.” Please see the application for more details on qualifications and application process. The link to the application can be found through the WHS website, Legacy Fund Blog, or Legacy Fund Facebook page. For more information about the scholarship, visit bit.ly/38JEhEg. Applications and/or questions can be emailed to whslegacyscholarshipcommittee@gmail.com.

DIANNA NEILSON BRIDGEWATER MIDDLE SCHOOL DiAnna Neilson is revered at Bridgewater Middle School for her positivity, willingness to lend a helping hand and for always having a smile on her face. The hard-working instructor always encourages her students to be role models and has helped build a positive culture on campus by building strong relationships with both students and faculty.

What do you love most about your school? I love that Principal (Andrew) Jackson’s focus is on developing relationships with our students, colleagues and community. I love coming to school and feeling like I am a part of something much bigger than myself … something truly special. I love that I am not an island but a piece of the continent. What’s your favorite part of your job? I love being around the kids. There is such an incredible energy in middle school that can’t be replicated anywhere else. I never take a day for granted. What made you want to take on this job? After many years of working in the hotel industry in Las Vegas, I began feeling like I wasn’t making a difference in the world. My hotel manager would often tell me that he could see me as a teacher. A seed was planted that eventually led me to pursue a

REPORT CARD ROLE: Peer counseling and journalism instructor TIME AT SCHOOL: Four years FAVORITE BOOK: “Where the Sidewalk Ends” by Shel Silverstein

career in education and I have never looked back. What motivates you and pushes you to do your best? I care deeply about the students and their development. I want them to succeed. I don’t ever want to fall short of what they need me to be. What’s the nicest thing a student or faculty member has done for you? This may not sound significant, but when a student yells my name across the courtyard and waves because they are excited to see me — I just don’t think it gets any better than that. What’s your favorite place to eat? I love Red Robin. Bottomless fries. Need I say more? If you could take a vacation to anywhere in the world, where would you go? Why? I have lived in Florida for almost five years now and have yet to go on a cruise. I don’t much care where I would go, as long as I have my family with me and could enjoy all of the amenities of the cruise ship!

If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why? I don’t particularly desire a superpower. Can I just have a lightsaber? Cats, dogs or some other pet? I don’t have any pets although I am a bird lover. I love the bright, beautiful colors on birds and their sweet songs. What do you like to do in your free time? I love to spend time with my family. I especially love to swim and enjoy spending countless hours with them at our community pool in the summers. What is your favorite sports team to cheer for? I honestly don’t follow sports, but I really do enjoy the basketball games at Bridgewater! Go Bobcats!

— ERIC GUTIERREZ

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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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SOUTHWEST ORANGE OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 30, 2020

OBSERVER SCHOOL ZONE

Keene’s Crossing opens time capsule Each grade level contributed something to the box before it was sealed in the school’s inaugural year. AMY QUESINBERRY COMMUNITY EDITOR

The student-led morning announcements Monday, Jan. 27, at Keene’s Crossing Elementary School included more than the typical school events, weather report and word of the day. A 10-year-old time capsule — kept in a glass cabinet in the media center — was opened by Principal Sherry Donaldson. Administrators, teachers who have been at Keene’s Crossing Elementary since the inaugural school year and PTA representatives crowded into the TV production studio as Donaldson revealed the contents of the box. Each grade contributed something. There was a pamphlet from the fifth grade performance for Vet-

erans Day, a photo of the inaugural second grade class, a photo of the cafeteria dedicated by the fifth graders, a puff-paint T-shirt with the names of the first graders, a photo of the entire kindergarten class, a laminated copy of all the third graders’ names, a scrapbook put together by the fourth grade classes, an American flag and a red poppy. The time capsule was sealed after the school celebrated Veterans Day 2009, and the top had a metal plate that requested the box not be opened until Nov. 13, 2019. The school elected to open it on the 100th day of school. “I thought the contents of the time capsule were amazing, especially putting it all in perspective,” Donaldson said. “For instance, many of the students have either graduated from high school or are in high school at this time. The memories of 10 years ago was an exciting moment for the school, especially for the staff who helped create them.”

Photos by Amy Quesinberry

Keene’s Crossing Elementary School’s administrators, as well as 10-year KCES teachers, were present for the opening of the time capsule.

Donaldson expects teachers will incorporate this moment into their lesson plans. “Teachers can have discussions with students about where they see themselves in 10 years,” she said. “What often seems like a lifetime away really is not; therefore, setting goals each year within those 10 years creates forward-thinking leaders. Teachers can also use the example of students who placed items in the time capsule 10 years ago and discuss where those students are

now and how they got there. This helps students make connections to realistic experiences that they may someday achieve.” Students have been making suggestions on what items should be placed in the time capsule, which will be reopened in a decade. Some wanted to place a chess piece in it, and others thought drawings of themselves would be a good addition. “They are all really intrigued by the fact that it stays in the capsule for 10 years,” Donaldson said.

She’s hoping to include pieces that represent the culture of the school from the PTO, volunteers, staff, students and community. “There is so much, such as chess, pieces of art, pictures of events … that I would love to see,” she said. “That’s when you know you work at a great place.” The next time this capsule will be opened is 2029, a date Donaldson has trouble grasping. “Wow — saying it makes it unbelievable!” she said.

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 30, 2020

OBSERVER SCHOOL ZONE

HUNGER

GAMES

West Orange County students competed in culinary and hospitality challenges at the Orange County Public Schools Hospitality & Culinary Competition.

Ocoee High School student Alisha Absolu made shrimp harumaki with spiced honey.

TASTE OF VICTORY

TIM FREED MANAGING EDITOR

hese students can take the heat — and that’s exactly why they’re staying in the kitchen. More than 300 students tested their skills in the culinary arts and hospitality at the Orange County Public Schools Hospitality & Culinary Competition Thursday, Jan. 23, at the Orlando World Center Marriott. Among them were students from Ocoee High School, Windermere High School and Orange Technical College’s Westside Campus. The event gave aspiring chefs and event managers the chance to gain real-world experience as they competed for awards under the watch of professionals acting as judges.

Photos by Tim Freed

Windermere High School student Madeliene Empric quickly got plates to her team’s table during the waiters’ relay.

About 20 students from Ocoee High School’s culinary arts classes showed up to compete in numerous events, including challenges for gourmet meal, dessert and knife skills. Jason Carlucci, the instructor of Ocoee High’s cooking classes, said the annual event always is an exciting opportunity for the students, adding that it’s the culmination of a cooking journey. “The whole thing is a learning experience,” he said. “I always talk to them about getting better every day — giving your best effort every day. That’s what I want them to do here. I want them to experience the thrill and excitement of cooking. This is a reward for them, because we’ve been working on this dish. We talk a lot about that it’s not the destination, it’s the journey — the journey is what matters and all the things we learn.” Students in the program will focus on the same dish for months on end to tweak it and make it just right for the judges leading up to the competition. That’s been the case for Ocoee High students Riahna Nichols and Rultz Bonne-Annee, who were looking to perfect their dessert — a chocolate mousse and vanilla flavored marshmallow fluff with peanuts, topped with potato chip and pretzel toffee. The sweet and salty treat won best-tasting dessert last year but fell short on plating, so the duo made some slight adjustments this time around. “In my eyes, a dish is never truly finished — you’re always learning, you’re always working on it, you’re always tweaking,” Carlucci said.

Ocoee High School students Riahna Nichols and Rultz Bonne-Annee were proud of their dessert — a chocolate mousse and vanilla flavored marshmallow fluff with peanuts, topped with potato chip and pretzel toffee.

The event not only gives the students a place to meet other high schoolers in similar programs, it can even lead to a career. Carlucci said some of his students were offered jobs at Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek last year. “Winning is great, but getting these kids jobs in an industry they love and they’re passionate about is the important thing,” Carlucci said. Ocoee High students walked away with some accolades they can be proud of, including a second-place finish for gourmet meal by students Anthony Feacher, Kameron Peterson and Kelvin Vo. Vo, who also took first place in a spice identification challenge, said he dreams of one day opening his own restaurant — and that the culinary competition gave him an awesome experience.

WE’RE IN THE

“You get the chance to do what you love and cook in front of all of the judges that you will be feeding eventually once you get out of high school and you get into the industry,” Vo said. “It’s a great mind opener.” HOSPITALITY HUSTLE

Students from Windermere High School appeared in multiple hospitality challenges, including non-edible arrangement, marketing and event planning. Heather Kelly, the hospitality and tourism teacher, said she hopes the students learn more about the industry while having fun competing. “I hope they learn about all the different paths that they can

take — there are so many different opportunities for jobs,” Kelly said. Students Kayla West, Madeliene Empric and Ola Mahmoud competed in a culinary event — waiters’ relay, where they were tasked with quickly and accurately putting together American, French and Russian table settings. Even knowing the small details about fork and knife placement can be helpful in the long run for landing a job in the industry, Kelly said. “Food and beverage is the largest sector in hospitality,” she said. “This will take them through life, especially in Central Florida — there’s so many different opportunities for them to use what they’ve learned.” Student Enzzo Lima showed his presentation skills when he won first place for non-edible centerpiece arrangement. His creation was inspired by the city of Orlando, featuring flowers, oranges and small signs sporting logos for Disney, Pulse nightclub and other recognizable symbols that sum up Orlando. “My mom has a tourism agency, and she always told me, ‘Follow my steps,’” Lima said. “Now that I got to high school, I had the opportunity, so I took the class and I’m getting really interested in it. Ms. Kelly is an awesome teacher, and I get a lot of information from her.” Windermere High School won first place overall hospitality champion.

ORANGE TECHNICAL COLLEGE WESTSIDE CAMPUS Students from Orange Technical College Westside Campus had a strong showing of its own at the annual Hospitality & Culinary Competition. A trio of students finished in third place for gourmet meal.

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SPORTS

HIGH

Dr. Phillips High weighlifter Destinee Alford is hitting her mark in the 199-pound weightclass. Page 12.

The softball season is quickly approaching, and the West Orange Girls Club has opened its registration for the 2020 spring season — which goes from March to May. The organization will be offering up 8U, 10U, 12U and 13U divisions to accommodate players ages 5 to 17 years old. Opening Day will take place March 28, and games will take place Monday and Wednesday nights. To register, visit wogcbrl. website.sportssignup. com.

In Windermere boys basketball’s 71-60 win over Oak Ridge Friday, Jan. 24, junior guard Kanye Jones had an explosive night as he picked up 25 points for the Wolverines (14-6). Fellow guard EJ Yorke tacked on 23 points himself, while Jaden Golston scored 13 points.

Freshman Edgerrin James Jr. had a strong showing during Olympia boys basketball’s 61-57 victory over Wekiva Friday, Jan. 24, as he led the Titans in scoring with 16 points. Teammate Julian Fletcher picked up 13 points for the Titans (12-8) in the win. The victory was the fifth in six games for Olympia.

A week after the Windermere Prep boys soccer team claimed the SSAC state title in a 4-2 win over All Saints Academy, the girls soccer team took home its second straight SSAC state title in an 8-0 blowout of Admiral Farragut Friday, Jan. 24. The Lakers (12-2) were led by two goals apiece from Brielyn Knowles and Courtney Mogauro, while Isabel Teixeira recorded three assists in the game.

TROY HERRING SPORTS EDITOR

itting back in her chair under the shade of a gazebo, Rebecca Berry watches children taking horseback riding lessons at Sunnybrook Farm. Throughout the week you’ll find Berry — the farm’s owner and head trainer — out and about as she trains youngsters, but on this Sunday, she’s enjoying watching assistant trainer Debbie Phillips work with a few girls. Berry isn’t one to sit idly by, though — every now and then she voices instructions to the riders. In equestrian it takes two to have a successful ride, Berry said. “The biggest thing that you’re looking for is good communication and leadership, where you’re watching the kid actually steer the pony — decide where they want to go and make the horse listen to them, but not demand it out of

Troy Herring

Kate Johnstone is one of many equestrian athletes who spend time at Sunnybrook Farm.

SADDLE UP At Sunnybrook Farm in Winter Garden, young equestrians learn to conquer fear and establish relationships.

SEE HORSING PAGE 13

Ocoee Middle basketball returns home After renovations to the school’s gym, the boys and girls teams at Ocoee Middle finally got a chance to play in front of classmates. TROY HERRING SPORTS EDITOR

In Ocoee boys basketball’s 68-55 win over district foe Lake Brantley Thursday, Jan. 23, senior shooting guard David Green went off for the Knights (15-6) as he picked up a gamehigh 32 points. The win moved the Knights into a first place tie in the Class 7A District 3 standings alongside Dr. Phillips.

Jamari Lowe fights for a rebound against Meadowbrook defenders.

The famous “Wizard of Oz” quotation, “There’s no place like home,” rings especially true for the members of the boys and girls basketball teams at Ocoee Middle School. After last playing in their own gym in February 2018, the basketball teams finally got the chance to play in front of a loud home crowd on the Ocoee Middle campus Wednesday, Jan. 22. It was everything both teams had dreamed it would be. “It gets us more excited, because all of our friends can come and then we are in our gym where we practice at,” eighth-grader Elisabeth Thomas said. “It lessens the nerves a lot.”

“I was nervous, but going through the motions, things got easier after five seconds into the game,” eighth-grader Zariah Hercule said. “I just imagined myself at practice and blocked the crowd out. I had fun tonight.” Over the last several years, there had been a lot of questions about the school’s gym and whether updates would be made to the aging facility. The lights that had been in the gym were from the 1970s, and the court began to rot because of a leaky roof. The issues that kept mounting finally required renovations to begin during the 2019 season. That meant the basketball programs had to find a temporary place to play. The Cardinals played their games over at Ocoee High School, which proved to be a challenge, said boys head coach Wallace Phillips. “One of the biggest deals about that, believe it or not, is getting kids from the middle school to the SEE CARDINALS PAGE 12

Photos by Troy Herring

London Adkins puts up a shot during the Cardinals’ win.

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A senior member of the weightlifting team at Dr. Phillips, Destinee Alford went from lifting just 95 pounds her freshman year to just under 180 this season. Her total lift of 335 pounds (170 bench, 165 clean and jerk) helped the Panthers go 10 for 10 in weight class victories at Metros Friday, Jan. 17.

Basketball fans around the area — and beyond — mourn and remember NBA legend Kobe Bryant after his recent, tragic death.

Destinee Alford A legend lost, but Kobe’s legacy lives

How did you first get into weightlifting? I got into weightlifting my freshman year — a coach named Abby, he introduced me (to the sport). He was like, ‘You look pretty strong, so how about I take you to this practice to see if you like it and then you can join.’ I tried it out — when I first started I was lifting 95 (pounds) as a freshman, so that’s when I joined the team and I just kept going from there.

THE BASICS

SCHOOL: Dr. Phillips High School YEAR: Senior AGE: 18 SPORT: Weightlifting WEIGHT CLASS: 199

Coming into the season, did you have any goals in mind that you were hoping to achieve? Coming into the season me and Coach Soko (Ben Sokolowsky) we talked over the summer and he was like, ‘This is what we are going to do.’ By Metros and districts I’ll be doing 180 and I’m almost there, so I’ve reached my goal pretty much. I came into the season lifting 135-145 and I’m about to end the season doing 190 by states.

What has been your favorite part about weightlifting at Dr. Phillips? Going to the competitions and meeting other girls, because everyone is always motivating you to do better and my teammates, they always say, ‘You can do it!’ Since your freshman year, what would you say has been the biggest change you’ve seen in yourself? With the weights, I’ve improved a lot. And it also helped me with my attitude with school, because to be on the weightlifting team you also have to have higher than a 2.5 (GPA) I believe. It helps your body, mind and everything.

What has been a highlight moment for you during your time at Dr. Phillips? Getting first place at Metros. Last year I got third place, and this year I go first — not second, but first. That was a big highlight and accomplishment — I was overly excited. I pushed so hard to do it. What happens after you graduate? I’m going to be lifting outside of school, but most definitely I’m trying to go to Nova Southeastern University to become an orthodontist specialist. Getting a scholarship for weightlifting is hard — I looked into it, but there’s not a lot of programs for that. I’m still going to train with Soko.

What would you say is the hardest part about weightlifting? Your favorite part? The hardest part about weightlifting are the practices — they’re really hard. And my favorite part is going to competitions. What is your favorite event? My favorite event is clean and jerk, and I say that because you’re starting from the bottom and then you have to jerk it all the way to the top and you can’t put the weight down until the person says so.

After a weightlifting meet, what is your perfect meal? Chipotle — the steak bowl. — TROY HERRING

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Cardinals return to home gym This week’s Sudoku answers

replacing of the hand-cranked Both the boys and girls teams windows that used to sit high in made themselves right at home high school,” Phillips said. “We the gym, while the gym’s roof pretty quickly, as the girls (1-0) didn’t have the opportunity was also replaced. dominated Meadowbrook 24-5, for them to eat food, (and) we Both programs are happy to while the boys (1-0) took an earcouldn’t get there early to prac- finally be back home where they ly lead and used a strong second tice, because they were already belong, said Marcus Spencer, half to beat Meadowbrook 33-18. having their own practice. We who serves as the girls basketball The wins were a good way to couldn’t get parents to have coach and athletic coordinator. start off the season, but expect the same level of involvement, “For our student body, I just more to come this season, said because they now had to travel think as a school that’s where eighth-graders Kendall Little This week’s and Celebrity Cipher answers to a whole other place — to trav- you can bring in the camaradeEzekiel Brinson. Puzzle One Solution: el over there was a whole other rie and the excitement to your “I’m pretty confident in our “Minneapolis just embraced There logistics nightmare.” school,” Spencer said. “You see team, because weme. have a pretty a lot of weirdos here.this It’s year, awesome, That all changed last week. we have a lot of fansare here, and solid team and I’m because I’m aready weirdo.” A completely new lighting ex-students came back because to play,” Kendall said. system takes the place of the they had been waiting on this “I feel like we can – matchup Lizzo decades-old dangling lights, project when they were here. with anybody in this district,” Puzzle Two Solution: and the new court sparkles Being able to walk into your own Brinson said. “And I feel like “Songwriting is a burst of inspiration under them. There were other gym is almost like sleeping in we’ll go far.” ©2020 NEA, Inc. and then a long bit of work and a adjustments, as well, such as the your own bed.” tremendous bit of desperation.” This week’s Crossword answers – Donovan CONTINUED FROM PAGE 11

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a part of our lives because we were introduced to Kobe when he was 18 years old — I was 13 years old at that time, and that’s the height of the beginning of a basketball career for a kid.” Many in the basketball community seem to have stories to share about Bryant and how he inspired them or impressed them with his game. That’s the case for Windermere High School boys basketball coach Mark Griseck. He remembers the one time when he and his son, Trey sat in on a Lakers’ practice that was held at Rollins College when they were in town to play the Magic a few years ago. Of all the things he remembers, Griseck recalled just how much Bryant stood out on the court. “At one point I turned to Trey and said, ‘It’s amazing that the greatest player in the world is working harder than anyone in the gym right now’ — he was just amazing,” Griseck said. “First of all he stretched for 40 minutes and then he did his individual workout, and he shot game shots for an hour and 20 minutes. “His level of focus on free throws — it was like Game 7, down one,” he said. “It was just amazing to watch him work.” There’s no way to bring Bryant back, but his legacy and impact on the game of basketball will carry on. So next time you pull up for a shot — whether it be with a crumpled ball of paper or an actual basketball — let out a “Kobeee” for old times’ sake. I know I will.

“Songwriting is a burst of inspiration and then a long bit of work and a tremendous bit of desperation.” – Donovan

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keep their emotions in check and desperately find words to convey their feelings. The problem is there are no words. I never got a chance to see Bryant play in person, and I never got a chance to meet him, but as someone who loves the TROY HERRING game of basketball I understand SPORTS EDITOR the sense of loss that many are feeling. Windermere Prep boys f basketball was a religion, basketball coach Brian Hoff said Kobe Bryant would be it’s an unreal, empty feeling. amongst the small pantheon “At first, you know, no one of its gods. wants to believe it,” said Hoff, That’s why it was devastating who was lying down for a when the news broke around the Sunday afternoon nap when world Sunday, Jan. 26, that one he heard the news. “I go check of the NBA’s greatest talents had Twitter and I’m constantly died at the age of 41. looking at things, and at first I As my phone buzzed with saw TMZ reporting it and I was notifications from an assortlike, ‘Let’s wait and hopefully ment of news outlets, and as it’s just a rumor.’ It’s just unbetexts from friends began to lievable and it’s just unreal, and amass in group chats, I sat in it’s just so sad.” disbelief as I read what was While Hoff found out in the known at the time: A helicopter comfort of his home, Dr. Philcarrying the retired All Star had lips boys basketball coach Ben crashed in Calabasas, CaliforWitherspoon was at a place that nia. Then the news got worse, was supposed to be “The Hapas we later found out that his piest Place on Earth.” oldest daughter Gianna, 13, and There, waiting in line with his seven others perished in the family for a ride at Magic Kingcrash. dom, Witherspoon watched his Not only had the world lost phone with complete concena sports icon who transcended tration — he couldn’t move. He the game of basketball, it also shared the news with his wife, lost a young girl budding with who grew up in the Philadelphia her father’s talent, as well as area and was obsessed with people like Orange Coast ColKobe, Witherspoon said. lege baseball coaching legend It was difficult to process, JohnThis Altobelli, and his wife, especially since Bryant was the week’s Celebrity Cipher answers Keri. Nine people total died in one who had the biggest impact Puzzle One Solution: this tragedy, and it’s important on him as a young basketball embraced me. There not“Minneapolis to let the others just be forgotten player. are a lot of weirdos here. It’s awesome, in the shadow of Bryant. “For me, as a kid, it was Kobe because I’m Sunday a weirdo.” But throughout — playing as Kobe on video afternoon I sat and watched games, having Kobe jerseys and – Lizzo interview after interview of NBA having Kobe shoes,” WitherPuzzle Solution: coaches andTwo players trying to spoon said. “He’s been such

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Horsing around CONTINUED FROM PAGE 11

them,” Berry said. “I want to see that the horse understands what they are doing — a horse is taught, ‘When your leg is on this way, this is what this means.’ It’s a matter of working with the students to understand that this is the proper way to ask them and this is the proper way that the horse should interact.” A few hundred feet from the sandy practice area sits one of the farm’s stables, where Orlando resident Kate Johnstone is applying polish to the hooves of Leon — one of Berry’s 16 horses. Many who aren’t familiar with the sport think that you just jump up onto the saddle and ride, but that’s not the case, Johnstone said. Before a rider even thinks about that, they have to spend some time with the animal by doing a little grooming and pampering. It helps the horse get the blood flowing, but it also develops a bond between rider and horse.

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“You want to establish that relationship with them, because ultimately once you get on the saddle with them you have this bond,” Johnstone said. “Every equestrian will agree; it’s impossible to be able to ride a horse without having that communication and that trust. “This is really for their benefit — they deserve to be pampered,” she said. “Every horse deserves their 20 minutes of attention with being pampered and groomed.” Johnstone, who is originally from Connecticut, understands the importance of the bond between rider and horse, as she has been a part of the equestrian world for most of her life — just like Berry and Phillips. They all know the last part of the puzzle to correctly working with a horse is acknowledging that each horse has its own personality. Your ride — whether it be during competition or during a lazy Sunday stroll — can be made better by understanding that simple fact, and it can help you identify how your horse is feeling. “It’s just like talking to other humans — it’s a language and you have to adapt until the communication becomes correct,” Phillips said. “They’ll lick their lips or blink an eye or relax the leg or breathe out — you’ll know from their body language if they are relaxing or not, and you’ll know from the performance.” FROM PRACTICE COURSE TO COMPETITION

While some students are content with riding on the practice course, others have a fire to compete.

Troy Herring

Kate Johnstone rides atop Leon as she takes in some practice time at Sunnybrook Farm.

The step up from joy ride to serious competition is steep, and it requires a rider to hunker down and really learn the ins and outs of the sport. Though Sunnybrook teaches a few different styles of equestrian, Berry works primarily in the hunter-jumper style of riding, which

emphasizes proper technique and form. It sounds simple enough, but when you really dive into riding, there’s so much technique — both big and small — that it can be overwhelming, Berry said. “With this next group of kids that I have, they will tell you they rode better two years ago,

THURSDAY, JANUARY 30, 2020

because they knew less,” Berry said. “Everything was the basic five to 10 things to remember, but now that they know more and how to ride properly — up a couple of levels — they’re remembering the first 10 things that they needed to, but then some of those get left to the side, which are your basics.” At competitions, overthinking can throw riders off, and it’s something that Johnstone knows well. “That was my biggest thing — remember to breathe,” Johnstone said. “You forget because you’re focusing on, ‘Alright, I have to maintain my leg pressure (and so on),’ and then you’re like, ‘Oh, OK, I have to breathe.’” If you can take your time, breathe and remember your training, you have a chance, she said. Riders also have to remember that scoring in a competition is subjective and ranges from judge to judge. So even if you have an off day, it doesn’t mean it’s the end of the world, Berry said. “Everything — at the end of the day — you just have to take it lightheartedly,” Berry said. “When the kids don’t have the best ride, 99% of the time my kids are the type of kids that are riding themselves harder than I am. It’s like, ‘The next ride has got to be better than this ride,’ and normally it is.” Like any sport, those types of challenges arise — it’s a part of the learning process. It also leads to one of Berry’s favorite parts of the job. “There’s nothing in the world better than when you have a kid who has been struggling with something and they finally get it — it clicks,” Berry said. “I feel like that is when I have purpose.”

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