07.23.20 Southwest Orange Observer by Orange Observer

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THURSDAY, JULY 23, 2020

MEET THE CANDIDATES This week, we introduce the five Democratic candidates vying to become Orange County sheriff. SEE PAGES 6-7.

Impact statements GAME FACE Batter up! Sandlot Days keep kids active. SEE PAGE 15.

School Board approves innovative learning model DANIELLE HENDRIX ASSOCIATE EDITOR

After two meetings spanning nearly 15 hours, the Orange County School Board voted to send the district’s innovative learning option to the state — along with a waiver — for approval. SEE BOARD PAGE 4

YOUR TOWN HOB NOB WILL BE VIRTUAL The West Orange Chamber of Commerce this year is converting its Hob Nob and Straw Poll to a virtual format. The event will take place from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, July 30 through Zoom. Virtual admission is $30 per person or $270 per 10 admissions. For more information, visit wochamber.com.

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Windermere resident and recent Lake Highland Prep graduate Jaya Dayal was named one of four rising collegians with a National Leaders Internship from Bank of America. SEE PAGE 2. Courtesy photo

Write-in candidate moves District 1 race to primary County Commissioner Betsy VanderLey and challenger Nicole Wilson will appear on the August ballot.

DANIELLE HENDRIX ASSOCIATE EDITOR

West Orange County voters will have to head to the polls in August to select their District 1 Orange County commissioner, following the entry of a last-

minute write-in candidate. The write-in candidate is 20-year-old Hannah Burns — stepdaughter of former county commissioner Scott Boyd, a longtime friend and supporter of incumbent Betsy VanderLey. VanderLey and her challeng-

er, environmental-law attorney Nicole Wilson, were slated to appear on the November ballot for District 1, which covers West and Southwest Orange County. But in June, at the end of the weekSEE DISTRICT PAGE 4

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THURSDAY, JULY 23, 2020

Thinking globally, acting locally SPORTS EDITOR

hen it comes to giving back, Jaya Dayal is more than happy to do whatever she can to make the world a better place. The 18-year-old Windermere native — who just graduated from Lake Highland Prep — has kept herself busy throughout the years. She has dedicated countless hours to organizations like the Boys & Girls Club in downtown Orlando and Water for the World. It’s that love for her community for which Dayal was picked to participate in Bank of America’s Student Leaders Program. The program offers Dayal — alongside Evon Thompson, Gedeon Guercin, and Kaley Hale — a $5,000 stipend and a six-week virtual summer internship program that teaches students about the varying roles

that nonprofits play in the community. “It’s a really great pairing of being actually able to engage and work in your local community with a nonprofit,” Dayal said. “But also learning these broader lessons about philanthropy in the corporate world, and about current issues like health care in the United States, racial inequality in the United States and being able to discuss it with other open-minded people who also want to effect change.” A BACKGROUND IN HELPING

Dayal first became active in the community in her 10th-grade year at Lake Highland Prep. One day, she decided to go with a friend to the Boys & Girls Club in downtown Orlando, where her friend volunteered. The organization serves some of Orlando’s most underserved communities, and Dayal walked away feeling the need to do something. “It was just kind of shocking for me — the disparity between the quality

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of education, the resources available and different sorts of things like that between my educational experiences and the educational experiences of a lot of the kids who went to the Boys & Girls Club,” Dayal said. “(It was) seeing that inequality and wanting to do what I could to fix it, and also seeing the sort of environment that the Boys & Girls Club provided for a lot of people — it’s a very encouraging environment.” Dayal signed up to help children by offering up optional tutoring services for a few hours each Friday. Many of the students, she noticed, were multiple grades behind on different subjects, she said. Although she enjoyed tutoring and volunteering, it wasn’t enough for Dayal. Ultimately, that’s what led her to applying to Bank of America’s program. “I felt like this was a great opportunity to both be involved on an in-depth individual level at the branch but also learning about the nonprofit sector,” Dayal said. Her work with the organization made her a strong candidate, but it

wasn’t the only volunteer or activist work she had done. Several years ago, Dayal’s brother started a club at Lake Highland Prep called Water for the World, which promotes increasing access to clean water around the world and raising awareness regarding the lack of accessibility to clean water for hundreds of millions of people. “I ended up getting very involved in the club,” Dayal said. “As president, we just worked to kind of organize awareness campaigns — whether that was sidewalk chalk or library displays and things like that to make people aware of this issue.” HELPING AND LEADING

Currently, Dayal and those in the Leaders Program are just more than four weeks into their summer internship. Although they discussed numerous topics via online conference calls, the meat of the internship has seen the four helping to further develop the Boys & Girls Club’s Cyber Clubhouse — an all-virtual curriculum and place of fun and learning that was put into place when the organization’s

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physical locations were closed due to the coronavirus pandemic. “They asked us to create content in four different areas — education and career, leadership and service, sports and recreation, and then health and wellness,” Dayal said. “We have to create this content for both K-5, and then middle school and high school. It’s on a rotation system, where for the three weeks we have been doing it, we have just been doing different topic each time.” Not only has the project been incredibly educational, but also it has helped Dayal get her out of her comfort zone every now and then. For Dayal, who will be studying environmental health sciences at the University of North Carolina — Chapel Hill in the fall, the experience is one for which she always will be grateful. “I didn’t realize how lucky I was to have this opportunity until I really got involved with this internship,” Dayal said. “I’ve just enjoyed it so much — it’s really been fulfilling the last few weeks.”

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Courtesy Aldi Corporate

Many new and renovated Aldi locations have been given a brand-new store layout and design.

Aldi coming to Horizon West The German-based grocer will replace Fresh Market as the anchor tenant for the Windermere Village shopping plaza.

DANIELLE HENDRIX ASSOCIATE EDITOR

More than a year after shops in Windermere Village began opening their doors, the shopping plaza’s developer announced a new grocer is on its way. Aldi, a German discount-grocery chain known for its own exclusive store brands, is replacing Fresh Market as the tenant of a 22,000-squarefoot outparcel that has remained empty since construction.

Marc Skorman, president of Windermere-based Skorman Development Corp., said the grocer will keep the existing building structure, making it larger than the average Aldi store. According to Aldi’s corporate office, its “modest-size stores” are typically about 16,400 square feet. Skorman said he completed the deal with Aldi following termination of the lease with Fresh Market, which had signed on a couple years ago but never moved in.

“We wanted some kind of specialty grocer that would be popular in that area, and we just felt Aldi would be such a good draw,” he said. “Some of the specialty grocers are no longer in business or not growing anymore. Aldi has the strength and the capability to grow and compete in these markets.” This will mark the third West Orange-area Aldi. It will be upscale, Skorman said, especially because Aldi has been putting more focus on its organic product offerings. This fits with Skorman’s vision to have plenty of healthy options for shoppers visiting the plaza, which already features Clean Juice and HUMBL. “They’re going on such a growth plane upscale with good credit and financial capabilities, and they aren’t in our market,” Skorman said. “Going out to the Horizon West market — which is one of the fastest-growing communities in Florida — there’s no Aldi there. I can see these people are Aldi customers, and I think (Aldi is) just going to be incredible for our shopping center and for the community.” Skorman said his understanding is that Aldi’s plans are done and the company is pulling its interior permit now. He hopes the store will be open within three to four months. “We were more concerned with the actual building drawings, that it would be compatible with our building,” he said. “Our location has just been so strong on that corner. It’s just been an unbelievable corner. We’ve built a very upscale, expensive building, and the neighbors just love it. … We tried to make a very friendly, com-

THURSDAY, JULY 23, 2020

“We wanted some kind of specialty grocer that would be popular in that area, and we just felt Aldi would be such a good draw.” — Marc Skorman, Skorman Development Corp.

patible neighborhood center, and it’s worked out.” On July 15, Aldi announced it has earned the title of Value Leader in the Market Force Information Grocery Benchmark Study — which surveys thousands of U.S. shoppers about their grocerybuying preferences — for the 10th consecutive year. Skorman said community reaction thus far has been “very, very good,” and people have been interested and excited to see a grocer open in the plaza. “It’s going to be a real feature store,” Skorman said. “Since I started talking with Aldi and looking, I did a tremendous amount of research on the internet and learned so much about them. Aldi is one of the largest grocers in the world. … We were really excited to get them, especially in light of some of those grocers that have closed — Lucky’s and Earth Fare and all of them. We felt very excited and happy to be getting Aldi. It’s just a grocery store that everybody loves to shop in.”

Windermere leaders approve pavilion plans The concept plan for an event pavilion received Town Council approval during the council’s July 14 meeting. ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Windermere is another step closer to a permanent structure that would support the town’s various events. Town leaders approved the Windermere pavilion concept plan during their July 14 Town Council meeting. It now will move toward design. The Downtown Business Committee has discussed for years a permanent structure that could help support town events. Those include 12 food truck nights, a craft beer fest and movie nights. Discussion also has included the expansion of current events. Town leaders added that thousands of dollars are spent annually on staging and equipment.

While the committee was discussing this, the Rotary Club of Windermere approached the town about donating a gazebo in honor of the club’s 50th anniversary. As the two organizations began to work together, they created the Windermere Pavilion Committee. The committee’s job has been to create a multi-use event-pavilion concept that would support both organizations’ needs but also benefit the town’s other events, committees and residents. The approved concept includes a functional stage space for events, a pavilion with three sides to project sound away from houses to the west, a concession stand to serve town events, storage to accompany the building, and replacement of the existing community room’s toilets. It also is required to

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The pavilion concept includes a covered stage area, public toilets, a storage area and concession stand.

fit with the town’s master plan for the Town Hall site. The Downtown Business Committee and Rotary club will handle the funding. The pavilion committee narrowed architect HuntonBrady’s designs and floor plans down to two designs and an ADA-compliant floor plan. Committee members ultimately chose the second option, which has three sides and an extended roof. Town Council members agreed the pavilion is needed and would provide useful features for events. “It also gives us bathrooms — which we’re in dire need of during these events — so we’ll have some-

thing nice for the residents to use as opposed to these plastic porta-potties,” Council Member Chris Sapp said. Resident Bonny Elder expressed concern regarding the pavilion’s overall design, saying she hoped it would complement the other buildings in town. “I just want to make sure that it’s fitting into the town concept in terms of the same type of material that the library and Town Hall is made of,” she said. “This is concept only … so we’re not even into design phase,” Town Manager Robert Smith told council members.

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Mayor Jim O’Brien said part of the intention of the design is to be considerate of residents who normally bear the brunt of the sound from town events, so the pavilion’s trajectory is critical. “As Robert (Smith) stated, this is pretty conceptual at this point,” O’Brien said. “We did talk about a desire and a very intentional process to make sure that it does match — in terms of materials and style — that’s complementary to some of the things that we’re doing without holding us to doing the exact same thing over and over again. It’s going to be a big job, but it’s going to be a big deal.”

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THURSDAY, JULY 23, 2020

District 1 race moved to August CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

long candidate-qualifying period, Boyd filed Burns’ paperwork to be a write-in candidate. Boyd said his reasoning behind the maneuver was based on a dual-message campaign sign that the Rights to Clean Water PAC and Wilson’s campaign share. He said Wilson, Charles O’Neal — chairman of the Rights to Clean Water PAC — and political consultant Meyers & Washington collectively work together, which he believes raised financial concerns with Wilson’s campaign. “After seeing the dual-message campaign signs, it became obvious that Ms. Wilson planned to run a legally questionable campaign of using the issue political committee to pay for her campaign,” Boyd said. “Her expense reports showed no expenditures for the signs that were already out. To make her run on her own merits and not draft off the PAC, I recruited a write-in candidate. Now she runs on her own in August, when we elect all of our judges, and the issue PAC will be in November. Nothing else has changed. All registered voters are still eligible to vote.” Wilson said there are two separate entities on the campaign sign

Boyd questioned, and she paid for her own marketing portion of it and listed it as a marketing expense. She added she spoke with Orange County Supervisor of Elections Bill Cowles and confirmed her split sign was proper. “I am a clean-water candidate, and I’m not going to back down from it, so if that’s a strategy to try to keep people from voting for me, I guess I’m just going to have to hang onto my beliefs that people in West Orange County want clean water,” Wilson said. “I know that that’s a ballot amendment. Both of those individual sides of that sign have their own disclosures.” As a write-in candidate, Burns’ name will not appear on the ballot. Although state law states write-in candidates go on the ballot for the General Election in November, Orange County has its own charter under the provisions of home rule, which is silent on write-ins. Under a legal interpretation from 2002 — when a write-in candidate for a County Commission seat first came up, Cowles said — a write-in candidate is considered equivalent to a regular candidate. Once three or more candidates — even if one is a write-in — have qualified for a county race, the election moves to the primary.

“From that standpoint, the county’s attorney office … said that when the candidate-qualifying (period) is over with — which was June 12 this year — you take the number of candidates for that contest and you include the write-in in that count,” Cowles said. “Under the county charter, the write-in goes in the total count of candidates and starts with the primary.” VanderLey said she didn’t know of Boyd’s plan until he called her from the Supervisor of Elections office. “I did not know about it in advance,” she said. “I found out about it after he’d done it. ... He’s a write-in on the Orange County Property Appraiser (race), so he did both on the same day.” VanderLey said one advantage of moving the race to the primary election is that it allows for more separation from the presidential race and more focus on local issues. “On one hand, I’m kind of happy to see it, because I feel like, ‘OK, now we can talk about local,’” VanderLey said. “In November, the only thing anybody talks about is the presidential election. It’s really, really difficult to have a conversation in the public about anything but presidential on a presidential cycle.”

Board approves education model School Board members first met Tuesday, July 14, to discuss schoolreopening plans and decide on the next course of action. More than 100 members of the public provided their input. Nearly 10 hours into the meeting, board members voted to table discussion and reconvene in a special meeting Friday, July 17. The board’s 6-2 stamp of approval — with members Dr. Kat Gordon and Karen CastorDentel dissenting — sends the OCPSLaunchED@Home concept to the state. Should it be approved, it will be one of three options parents have for sending their children back to school in the fall. Currently, the School Board’s tentative reopening date is Friday, Aug. 21. OCPSLaunchED@Home gives students the opportunity to continue to learn at home while remaining registered at their enrolled school. In addition, OCPS families may choose face-to-face instruction and virtual learning. Specific safety measures — including a mask mandate for all staff and students over the age of 3 when on campus — would be in place on

school campuses. Families also can enroll their child in Orange County Virtual School or Florida Virtual School for self-paced lessons. Along with submitting OCPSLaunchED@Home for approval, the board sent a waiver that would allow it to make a decision on safe school reopening and face-to-face instruction dependent on local COVID-19 conditions and guidance from medical experts. Should the waiver be approved, the board then could retract reopening brick-and-mortar schools. “We voted to … simultaneously submit a waiver that insists that, under our constitutional authority, we insist on the right to determine what is safe for our district with regards to opening our schools,” School Board Member Linda Kobert said. “And we’re going to call on state leaders, parents, teachers, everyone to stand with us in support of local control with your locally elected leaders.” During the July 14 meeting, many comments called for the School Board to keep school buildings closed.

“Face-to-face teaching — under the best of conditions, the best of plans — is unsafe given the explosion of cases we’re experiencing,” said Gretchen Robinson, an Orange County Public Schools teacher and member of the county’s Classroom Teachers Association. “I have zero interest in playing chicken with a deadly virus.” Nicole Stein, a Southwest Orange resident, said she has a rising firstgrader whom she would love to keep connected to his school but is concerned about safety surrounding the coronavirus. “Common sense tells us it’s a bad idea,” Stein said. “The stop and start of schools is inevitable because of the virus. … I’m very, very interested in the innovative plan because we talk about mental illness, emotional illness and keeping our children healthy in those areas.” Some speakers favored the return of have face-to-face instruction. Horizon West resident Rachel Gunson said her children needed to return to school for social reasons and because she has to work. “I am a single mom, and I have

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There are write-in candidates in other local races this year, such as for Orange County Sheriff and Orange County Property Appraiser. Wilson raised questions concerning the District 1 race, though, because of the connection between Boyd, Burns and VanderLey. Wilson said she believes Boyd recruited his stepdaughter as a write-in to force the primary election, where there likely will be fewer voters. “The VanderLey-Boyd late write-in entry is consequential and will likely affect the outcome of this race,” Wilson said. “Even though the County Commission race is nonpartisan, it is no secret that Betsy is a Republican and I am a Democrat. District 1 currently has more registered Democrats. My name will be listed on the Orange County Democrat voter guide and likely in the union voter guides, so Betsy is avoiding any down-ballot benefit I might get in November. And the challenger has less time to fundraise and get name recognition. As an incumbent, she has a direct line to constituents through county communication … limiting campaign season limits the challenging candidate from getting in touch with voters.”

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to go back to work,” Gunson said. “What about us, the families that have to work? Who’s going to pay my bills? … My kids do best with structure, and the structure of going to school helps them a lot. They need to go back to school. … We need some sense of normalcy back, and I get the teachers are scared — I get it, we all are scared — but this is the next step in hopefully getting some normalcy back.” School Board Member Pam Gould acknowledged there are many issues facing OCPS students and families, especially in the face of a global pandemic. “We are basically facing another mandate that is underfunded,” Gould said. “No matter which way we turn, people’s health and wellbeing are at risk. … This is an assault from all sides — the virus and the economic structure.” Parents have been asked to fill out forms to register their instructional model of choice for their children by Friday, July 24. If the registration isn’t completed, children will automatically be registered to attend their assigned school under the face-to-face model.

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Oakland adopts 2020 water master plan The plan offers suggestions on how to best update the town’s water plan, which was last revised back in 2008. TROY HERRING SPORTS EDITOR

The Oakland Town Commission took a big step to the continuing improvement of its water utility master plan during its meeting Tuesday, July 14. The master water plan itself was last revised in 2008 and took into consideration many of the items mandated in the 2006 consumptive use permit, as well as other aspects necessary to provide reliable service. After 12 years, town officials said it was time for an update. “After nearly two years of working through the details on this, we have a new water master plan,” Public Works Director Mike Parker said. “The last time it was revised was way back in 2008 … some things still apply and some things do not.” Over the last 12 years, the area has seen growth. In 2015, new residential development spiked the town population, which required the need for more water. Furthermore, in 2017, the town was issued a new CUP from the Water Management District that placed regulations on groundwater. That forced the town to take a 5% reduction over the 2006 allotments. The new allotment of .89 million gallons per day has put a stress on the town. Between between Jan. 1 and June 30 of this year, the town had 41 days of use where it exceeded that number and more days that came close. At the current rate of growth, by 2024-25 the town anticipates crossing the threshold of using more than its annual allotment. “You take the ever-changing restrictions on groundwater use, the regulatory issues that we are faced with on an everyday basis and the insatiable demand for irrigation — add on development on top of all of that — (and) yes, things have changed a bit since 2008,” Parker said. “The town was successful in completing several components of the previous plan — none were cheap, none were easy, but we did it. “This plan sets the stage for the next round of capital improvements — new water well, an alternative water system and pipeline improvements,” he said. “None of these will be cheap, and none will be easy, but we still need to do what needs to be done.” The plan calls for six different improvements in order to get the town’s water system where it needs to be. The list includes:

n Upsizing distribution-system piping and improve system reliability. Overall, the projected cost for the recommended facilities to serve the town’s potable water system is $7.52 million — resulting in an estimated cost per residential connection of about $2,900 per connection, assuming 2,563 total connections (890 existing plus 1,673 planned), according to the report completed by CPH Inc. A few of the commissioners — and Mayor Kathy Stark — had questions regarding different aspects of the plan, with Stark asking about CPH’s estimated

population projection of 8,900 by 2039. “We leaned on a buildout of 7,000 the last time, and now I’m looking at your graph, and it’s showing almost 9,000 — that’s a much bigger number,” Stark said. “I know we have a JPA (joint planning area) and I know some of the things that we approved are a little more dense than anticipated, so do we feel like 9,000 is pretty solid, end-of-the-road number?” Based on the timeframe, CPH officials stood by their estimation, Project Manager Scott Breitenstein said. The commission approved the new water master plan unanimously.

IN OTHER NEWS n The commission approved a resolution to declare a state of emergency because of the threat of COVID-19. The resolution extends the safety measures put together back in March for another 60 days. n The commission amended the future land-use map from low-density residential to commercial for the building located at 102 W. Oakland Ave. The facility now will be the location of a new alteration shop run by master tailor Cheri Kent.

n A redundant 1,800 GPM well connected to water treatment plant No. 1; n An alternative water supply stormwater harvesting capture, treatment, storage and pumping system to meet irrigation water demands for new developments; n Modification of CUP #3347 to meet future potable water demands;

n Exploration of options to increase high-service pumps capacity; and

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n Construction of a new 100,000-gallon ground storage tank to meet fire storage requirements;

2020 PRIMARY: MEET THE CANDIDATES

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THURSDAY, JULY 23, 2020

ORANGE COUNTY SHERIFF (DEMOCRATS) W

ith Orange County’s August primary elections a month away, candidates for various offices are working to earn the votes of the constituents they hope to serve. This week, we introduce the five Democratic

candidates running for Orange County sheriff. Candidates’ responses have been edited for space and grammar. Their entire, unedited responses are available on OrangeObserver.com.

ANDREW DARLING Why are you running for county sheriff? To build the bridge and bridge that gap between law enforcement and the community ... you have to have somebody from the outside come in and bridge that gap. ... I believe I’m the only person who has the relationships in Orange County to bridge that gap and to actually think through an entire, full-scale approach to changing policing in this county ... and still keep Orange County safe. What qualities and skills would you bring to the position? I spent 7-and-a-half years in the U.S. Army. ... I was a drill sergeant for a couple of years, and I’ve worked on political campaigns. Why are you the best candidate? I am the only attorney in the race, and I think a lot of times when career law-enforcement

JOSE “JOE” LOPEZ Why are you running for county sheriff? The establishment passed the baton from one insider to another, and our communities deserve better. ... I promise you, no one will work smarter or harder — with more integrity and compassion for the community, while earning your trust — than me. What qualities and skills would you bring to the position? I have the courage to say no to the establishment and say yes to the people, yes to the community. I will not mislead the community or media about crime or excessive use of force. Why are you the best candidate? What defines me is my 32-year career as a state trooper — rising through the ranks to chief upon retirement — with an unquestionable, impeccable record. What defines me is my four-and-a-half years serv-

officers talk about law enforcement, they focus solely on the enforcement part, and they leave out the law part of it. The law part is so important, because if deputies are not doing their jobs correctly or in line with the law, then even when you have a case that should be a slam-dunk for conviction, you’re not going to be able to get it because deputies did something wrong. What are the three biggest needs of the Sheriff’s Office now, and how would you work to fill those needs? The first would definitely be hire more social workers and mental-health professionals. Right now, the Sheriff’s Office needs to have more social workers and mental-health professionals who actually work for the Sheriff’s Office. The second is to end the school-to-prison pipeline by treating kids like kids and not arresting them for common youthful behavior. … Another one of my policy positions is ending full-custodial arrests

ing meritoriously in the U.S. Marines in a prestigious unit, Embassy Duty. What defines me is growing up in the tough streets of the Bronx serving my community as an altar boy, Cub Scout, Boy Scout and a Junior Naval Cadet. ... I am a community servant of 45-plus years. Serving my community is a calling for me, a sense of duty. What are the three biggest needs of the Sheriff’s Office now, and how would you work to fill those needs? n Diversity. One of the building blocks to building relationships in the community is to have a diverse OCSO. n Effective leadership through emotional intelligence to build morale within OCSO. n Build a stronger partnership and relationship with the community. How should the Sheriff’s Office change or grow following the nationwide unrest caused by the death of George Floyd? My message is about integ-

for misdemeanor offenses except for domestic violence. How should the Sheriff’s Office change or grow following the nationwide unrest caused by the death of George Floyd? If we’re going to really change policing in this country, then we have to start that with a true reform candidate for sheriff. ... I know that my criminal justice reformminded policies are going to make it not only safer for the community members but also for the deputies. … With the George Floyd protests, our Orlando Police Department and OCSO arrested dozens of people. I represented nearly 20 protestors — with my law firm, pro bono. ... Every single one of the cases that I represented somebody for was dismissed. How can the Sheriff’s Office relationship with the community improve? (Implement) a Civilian Review Board that has actual teeth and has the ability to subpoena officers. There’s

rity and accountability to the community. I will hold the members of the OCSO accountable, as I did as a state trooper and as a U.S. Marine. I will not mislead the community or media, and I will have a zero tolerance of excessive use of force. Any member of OCSO found to have used excessive use of force will be terminated. How can the Sheriff’s Office relationship with the community improve? n Community policing. Rebuild the trust with the community. (This includes) collaborative problem-solving between police and the community; implementing periodic community surveys to obtain feedback; establishing an open transparency with the media and the community; conducting an audit of use-of-force policy; prohibiting profiling on traffic stops; promoting a “Know Your Rights” campaign; and ... recruiting ambassadors from the communities (who) will be the voice for the community of the black and brown.

— DANIELLE HENDRIX

a controlling case in Florida which is from Demings vs. the Civilian Review Board. The Florida Supreme Court said the civilian review boards do not have subpoena power because of the Law Enforcement Officers’ Bill of Rights. So the Civilian Review Board doesn’t have subpoena power. ... I’m going to fundamentally change the position of the Sheriff’s Office … that position is going to be they can subpoena deputies. As West Orange County continues to grow, how should the Sheriff’s Office change to accommodate that growth? The way that we fix that is by having more deputies rotate through. There’s not a huge presence — they move cars around occasionally to stop the speeders and stuff — but it’s really going to be a presence thing. The way we can do that is we can stop over-criminalizing our young people, essentially, and stop over-criminalizing the black and brown neighborhoods where we have

n Civilian Appeals Board. Currently at issue is the Orange County Sheriff’s Office Citizens Review Board’s power to compel sheriff’s deputies to appear and testify in CRB investigations by subpoena. … There are four different levels of CRB used throughout the United States. The one I plan to implement is the following. If the complainant disagrees with the outcome of an Internal Affairs Complaint investigation, their case will go to the Civilian Appeals Board, which reviews everything internal affairs had access to, including body-cam footage. Once the Civilian Appeals Board reaches a conclusion, it is forwarded to the sheriff to determine the final course of action. As West Orange County continues to grow, how should the Sheriff’s Office change to accommodate that growth? It’s important that the OCSO hires more but good lawenforcement officers to meet the demand. This may also

Age: 35 City/town: Winter Garden Family: Married to wife Jennifer for 12 years; two children Education: Bachelor’s degree in business administration and master’s degree in human resources, Strayer University; Law degree from University of Miami School of Law Qualifications: Criminaldefense attorney; experience in the Orange County Public Defender’s office in 2019

historically placed so many law-enforcement officers. ... That’s going to free up some of our resources to come out to the Horizon West area at night.

Age: 58 City/town: Born in the Bronx; resides in Orlando Family: Married for 30 years; two children Education: Bachelor’s degree in criminal justice administration, Columbia Southern University Qualifications: Promoted to major in 2013 as the bureau commander of Criminal Investigation and Intelligence with the Florida Highway Patrol; assigned troop commander in 2015 for Troop K-Turnpike/Orlando; promoted to rank of chief upon retirement; currently senior manager of security for Walt Disney World

require ... building a Sheriff’s Office substation to handle calls for service on the west side of Orange County.

OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

ERIC MCINTYRE

What qualities and skills would you bring to the position? I would bring the quality and skills of at least 30 years of community involvement, which includes working as a volunteer and mentor, as well as my real, down-to-earth life experience and experience as a S.W.A.T., tactical team commander, hostage negotiations, Criminal Investigations Division supervisor, agency recruiter, public information officer, internal affairs investigator, patrol offi-

JOHN MINA Why are you running again for county sheriff? Ensuring the safety of the residents and visitors of Orange County has been my life’s work. I have been a resident of Orange County for 30 years, and I care deeply about the safety of this community. I feel a huge responsibility to run for sheriff again because I am the most qualified person and have the most experience. I have shown proven leadership in crisis situations and have become a trusted face of law enforcement in Central Florida. What qualities and skills do you bring to the position? I have 30 years of lawenforcement experience. I have attended the FBI National Academy and the Southern Police Institute Command Officer Development Course. I have been both a chief of police and sheriff. I have also testified before U.S. Congress and spoken at the White House on

DARRYL SHEPPARD Why are you running for county sheriff? I see systemic issues within law enforcement today and the communities they serve, and I believe it’s time for us to go in a new direction. We need someone who is educated and dedicated to make these changes. I will bring better transparency, better programs for rehabilitation, better accountability and better leadership to the Orange County Sheriff’s Office. What qualities and skills would you bring to the position? I am a dedicated leader with an extensive educational, business management and leadership background. ... I am not going to be persuaded by the establishment or “blue curtain.” I will maintain my commitment to do what is right on behalf of the citizens we serve. Why are you the best candidate? I understand what it’s like

Why are you the best candidate? I am the only candidate who has lived and worked continuously in communities and neighborhoods and who is actively working in the field as a law-enforcement officer daily. I see the disparities residents and business owners are facing due to crime, violence, social injustice and economic inequalities. This places me at an advantage of knowing the root issues and effectively addressing them. What are the three biggest needs of the Sheriff’s Office now, and how would you work to fill those needs? n Real positive and trustworthy leadership is needed. I would begin by listening to the concerns of the deputies and work together to build positive inhouse relationships, because as a team, together everyone achieves more.

police-related issues. I am a board member of the International Association of Chiefs of Police. Why are you the best candidate? I have been chief and sheriff of two of the largest law-enforcement agencies in Florida. I have shown I can lead our community through crisis and tragedy, such as the Pulse shooting, COVID-19 and now the unrest caused by nationwide incidents involving law enforcement. And I have shown calm, measured leadership in dealing with those events. I have been able to reduce crime at both agencies I led. Crime is down in Orange County by 19%, and violent crime is down by 12%. What are the three biggest needs of the Sheriff’s Office now, and how would you work to fill those needs? As Orange County continues to grow, so does the need to increase the amount of deputies. No. 1 is keeping up with

to be victimized by others and have to fight constantly for your voice to be heard. ... This allows me to understand and effect change from a unique perspective. I won’t have to take a sideline approach to policies and hope they are effective. What are the three biggest needs of the Sheriff’s Office now, and how would you work to fill those needs? I think the biggest needs today start with restoring trust between the community and law enforcement. One of the ways this can be done is by changing the types of interactions between law enforcement and increasing non-law-enforcement interactions between citizens and law enforcement. In my platform, I have discussed mandatory non-law-enforcement community-service hours to help restore trust and build relationships. I think accountability is another muchneeded aspect in the Sheriff’s Office. We have to set the tone

n Building positive relationships with the Orange County community — making for a united Orange County, considering the diversity of the county — by enhancing community policing. I would look to have deputies exit their vehicles and build relationships with the citizens and the children of the community. n No. 3, a big need is to reduce crime and the fear of crime in Orange County and the cities within the county. Safety of the public is important; therefore, I would evaluate the crime trends of homicides, violent crimes, crimes of persons and property and implement strategies of prevention and apprehension. How should the Sheriff’s Office change or grow following the nationwide unrest caused by the death of George Floyd? The Sheriff’s Office should be reviewing its use-of-force policy and banning the use of chokeholds. (It) should also be looking at deputy accountability, requiring deputies to inter-

attrition and growth. We have worked hard to increase our staff and hired almost 200 deputies last year. We will continue that momentum to ensure we are keeping up with growth. No. 2 is the need for a new communications center. We will continue to work with Orange County government to get this accomplished. No. 3 is the need to expand our current operations building and fleet management on John Young Parkway. As we continue to grow, so does the need for space. We have submitted capital improvement projects and are working with Orange County government to accomplish these needs. How should the Sheriff’s Office change or grow following the nationwide unrest caused by the death of George Floyd? I have worked with several community groups and my own Citizen’s Advisory Committee to take a hard look at our training and use-of-force policy. I have also convened my own internal work group

that while we are responsible for enforcing the law, we are also responsible for obeying those laws. Lastly, I think it’s important to make the citizens feel involved in their Sheriff’s Office. I plan to address this by reforming the CRB and making it have the necessary subpoena powers it should, either indirectly or directly, and defending those changes. How should the Sheriff’s Office change or grow following the nationwide unrest caused by the death of George Floyd? The situation involving Mr. Floyd is a symptom of bigger problems we have faced within the minority community for a long time. Moving forward, we have to ensure officers are held accountable and a climate is created where this will never be a tolerated type of behavior. Racism and bigotry have no place in law enforcement or public service. Having a sheriff that represents more of the same isn’t going to change the climate and will further create issues like that of Mr. Floyd. I

THURSDAY, JULY 23, 2020

vene when witnessing excessive-force incidents. How can the Sheriff’s Office relationship with the community improve? The Sheriff’s Office relationship with the community can improve with my campaign initiative of “Your Community — Your Voice,” which places deputies in the community actively engaging with residents and building positive relationships. The goal of “Your Community — Your Voice” is to provide residents with a platform for their voice to be heard on the issues going on in their community, and for law enforcement to respond appropriately. As West Orange County continues to grow, how should the Sheriff’s Office change to accommodate that growth? As West Orange County continues to grow, the Sheriff’s Office must change to accommodate diversity. As sheriff, I will structure the department to reflect the diverse community we serve.

Age: 49 City/town: Orlando Family: Wife, Carol; six children Education: Honors bachelor’s degree in criminal justice administration, Columbia College; ABA-approved associate’s degree in paralegal studies, Southern College — Orlando Qualifications: Vice chairman and secretary of Police Municipal Pension Trust Fund Board (representing Eatonville police); past chairman and vice chair of Orlando’s Criminal Nuisance Abatement Board; board member for Local Community Advisory Committee at Neighborhood Center for Families; Orange County Public Schools volunteer/mentor; Valencia College Criminal Justice Institute Advisory Board (agency liaison)

to look at best practices from around the country. Both the internal group and my Citizen’s Advisory Committee will meet to work on these policies together. How can the Sheriff’s Office relationship with the community improve? I have a strong record of working with the community and listening to their needs. I have increased the amount of community-engagement events and have shared my philosophy of building trust and treating all people with dignity and respect. The only way to continue to build the relationship is to continue listening and change policies that mirror the community’s need when practical. As West Orange County continues to grow, how should the Sheriff’s Office change to accommodate that growth? We must continue to hire more deputies and increase our staffing levels to accommodate growth. ... We have adjusted

Age: 51 City/town: Ocoee Family: Married for 28 years; two grown sons Education: Bachelor’s degree in criminal justice administration; halfway through a master’s degree, both from Columbia College Qualifications: Law-enforcement officer for nearly 30 years; chief of the Orlando Police Department for almost four years; sheriff of Orange County for almost two years

the size of each sector in Orange County so there will be more deputies in each area. ... We applied for and have received federal funding for $2.5 million that will help offset the cost of 20 additional deputies.

am the new direction we need to ensure that climate no longer exists. How can the Sheriff’s Office relationship with the community improve? I think we have a lot of room for improvement when it comes to our relationship with the community. As I stated earlier, we have to restore trust and accountability for that relationship to improve. Without these components, we are just running in circles. In doing so, I think respecting each other can go a long way in restoring trust. The stereotypes or impatient attitudes we’ve seen used in the past damage relationships and prevent us from achieving growth. As West Orange County continues to grow, how should the Sheriff’s Office change to accommodate that growth? As the county continues to grow, it is the responsibility of the sheriff to maintain awareness of that growth and maintain the safety of its citizens.

Age: 37 City/town: Orlando Education: AA degree (honors), AS degree in criminal justice technology (honors), bachelor’s degree in interdisciplinary studies with minor in psychology and criminal justice — FAMU

Whether that be additional patrols, increased staff, more outreach and prevention programs or other resources, I will make sure the citizens have it. I want our citizens to be able to live their lives free and happy without the need to worry about their safety and that of their friends, family (and) loved ones. That will be my commitment to you as sheriff.

2020 PRIMARY

Why are you running for county sheriff? My vision, mission and focus include protecting victims of domestic violence and crimes against the elderly and our children. The vision is to enhance community policing, allow for more positive interactions with law enforcement and the public, to provide safety for neighborhoods and businesses, enforce equality, restore public trust and provide transparency.

cer, detective, sergeant, lieutenant, acting captain and interim chief to chief of police.

OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, JULY 23, 2020

REAL ESTATE

A guide to public and alternative schools in West Orange County.

BACK TO

School

Isleworth estate sells for $2.65M

home in the Isleworth

HORIZON WEST

community in Win-

real-estate transactions

The home at 1854 Burdock Drive, Winter Garden, sold July 16, for $382,000. Built in 2007, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,581 square feet. The price per square foot is $148. Days on market: Three.

from July 10 to 16.

HICKORY HAMMOCK

dermere topped all West Orange-area residential

The home at 4913 Aviva

COMING THURSDAY, AUGUST 20

Garden Court, Windermere, sold July 10, for $2.65 million. Built in

Everything parents can expect for kids to return safely to a traditional or virtual classroom in August.

2019, it has four bedrooms, four baths, two half-baths, a pool and 4,676 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $566.72. Days on market: 407. These are the highestselling homes in each

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community in West Orange.

CARRIAGE POINTE

The home at 15770 Citrus Grove Loop, Winter Garden, sold July 15, for $389,500. Built in 2015, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,318 square feet. The price per square foot is $168.03. Days on market: Three. HIGHLANDS AT SUMMERLAKE GROVES

The home at 7243 Summerlake Groves St., Winter Garden, sold July 13, for $369,000. Built in 2018, it has three bedrooms, twoand-one-half baths and 2,119 square feet. The price per square foot is $174.14. Days on market: 29. INDEPENDENCE/ SIGNATURE LAKES

The home at 6247 Sunset Isle Drive, Winter Garden, sold July 16, for $850,000. Built in 2014, it has four bedrooms, three-andone-half baths, a pool and 3,064 square feet. The price per square foot is $277.42. Days on market: Eight. The home at 6333 Schoolhouse Pond Road, Winter Garden, sold

1 vote in the virtual straw poll An opportunity to hear from the candidates including candidate debates

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eet the Candidates. Vote in the Straw Poll.

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OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

July 10, for $390,000. Built in 2013, it has four bedrooms, threeand-one-half baths and 2,607 square feet. The price per square foot is $149.60. Days on market: 48.

The home at 16178 Wind View Lane, Winter Garden, sold July 10, for $350,000. Built in 2016, it has three bedrooms, two-andone-half baths and 2,170 square feet. The price per square foot is $161.29. Days on market: 11.

LAKE SAWYER SOUTH

The home at 7490 Tattant Blvd., Windermere, sold July 16, for $438,000. Built in 2012, it has five bedrooms, three baths and 2,979 square feet. The price per square foot is $147.03. Days on market: Five.

WICKHAM PARK

The home at 12667 Calderdale Ave., Windermere, sold July 10, for $309,000. Built in 2012, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,696 square feet. The price per square foot is $182.19. Days on market: Four.

LAKEVIEW PRESERVE

The home at 3251 Buoy Circle, Winter Garden, sold July 14, for $385,000. Built in 2020, it has five bedrooms, three baths and 2,297 square feet. The price per square foot is $167.61. Days on market: 85.

This Isleworth home, at 4913 Aviva Garden Court, Windermere, sold July 10, for $2.65 million. The Henri by Goehring & Morgan presents a modern, relaxed lifestyle with the latest in interior finishes.

LATHAM PARK NORTH

ORCHARD PARK

The home at 14347 Shocklach Drive, Winter Garden, sold July 10, for $364,000. Built in 2015, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,126 square feet. The price per square foot is $171.21. Days on market: Two. ORCHARD HILLS

The home at 5000 Weeping Holly Court, Winter Garden, sold July 10, for $442,500. Built in 2017, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,957 square feet. The price per square foot is $149.64. Days on market: Six. The home at 4890 Palmetto Park Drive, Winter Garden, sold July 15, for $406,000. Built in 2015, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,893 square feet. The price per square foot is $140.34. Days on market: 60.

WINDERMERE SOUND

realtor.com

The home at 3017 Irish Peach Drive, Winter Garden, sold July 14, for $384,000. Built in 2018, it has four bedrooms, two-andone-half baths and 2,533 square feet. The price per square foot is $151.60. Days on market: 80. SANCTUARY AT HAMLIN

The home at 7722 Tangerine Knoll Loop, Winter Garden, sold July 13, for $480,000. Built in 2019, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,818 square feet. The price per square foot is $170.33. Days on market: 48. SUMMERLAKE

The home at 8149 Pond Apple Drive sold July 14, for $555,000. Built in 2017, it has five bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths, a pool and 4,248 square feet. The price per square foot is $130.65. Days on market: 29.

SUMMERLAKE GROVES

The home at 15535 Murcott Harvest Loop, Winter Garden, sold July 10, for $418,000. Built in 2015, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 2,671 square feet. The price per square foot is $156.50. Days on market: 62. WATERLEIGH

The home at 9438 Komika Lane, Winter Garden, sold July 14, for $373,490. Built in 2020, it has four bedrooms, three-andone-half baths and 2,489 square feet. The price per square foot is $150.06. Days on market: 24. The home at 16731 Herongate Drive, Winter Garden, sold July 10, for $361,490. Built in 2020, it has three bedrooms, two-andone-half baths and 2,216 square feet. The price per square foot is $163.13. Days on market: 50.

The home at 13236 Penshurst Lane, Windermere, sold July 15, for $359,000. Built in 2015, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,061 square feet. The price per square foot is $174.19. Days on market: 15. WINDERMERE TRAILS

The home at 8718 Crescendo Ave., Windermere, sold July 15, for $440,000. Built in 2016, it has four bedrooms, three-andone-half baths and 3,421 square feet. The price per square foot is $128.62. Days on market: Five.

GOTHA

TOWN OF GOTHA

The home at 1480 Hempel Ave., Windermere, sold July 14, for $866,000. Built in 2007, it has five bedrooms, four-and-onehalf baths, a pool and 4,219 square feet. The price per square foot is $205.26. Days on market: Three.

OAKLAND

OAKLAND POINTE

The home at 21 Oakland Pointe Circle, Oakland, sold July 14, for $329,000. Built in 2001, it has

THURSDAY, JULY 23, 2020

SNAPSHOT

Total Sales: 94 High Sale Price: $2.65 million Low Sale Price: $123,500

three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 1,848 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $178.03. Days on market: 91. OAKLAND TRAILS

The home at 1763 Standing Rock Circle, Oakland, sold July 15, for $400,000. Built in 2020, it has three bedrooms, two-andone-half baths and 2,038 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $196.27. Days on market: 10. The home at 2207 Standing Rock Circle, Oakland, sold July 14, for $331,540. Built in 2020, it has four bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 2,191 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $151.32. Days on market: Seven.

OCOEE

ARDEN PARK SOUTH

The home at 1523 Terra Verde Way, Ocoee, sold July 10, for $369,500. Built in 2017, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,176 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $169.81. Days on market: Three. FORESTBROOKE

The home at 196 Beacon Pointe Drive, Ocoee, sold July 15, for $392,500. Built in 2004, it has four bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,763 square feet. The price per square foot is $142.06. Days on market: Nine. SEE REAL ESTATE PAGE 10

PROVEN

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Make the choice that’s right for you: Live in the heart of downtown Orlando, lakefront in Winter Park or at our neighborhood on the shore of Lake Baldwin. Enjoy active, independent living in a variety of affordable residences enhanced by housekeeping, dining, transportation and more. No matter what you choose, residents enjoy a maintenance-free lifestyle and the assurance of a full range of supportive healthcare services.

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IN THE DEMOCRATIC PRIMARY

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, JULY 23, 2020

REAL ESTATE

INGRAM TRAILS

The home at 2804 Pythagoras Circle, Ocoee, sold July 10, for $315,000. Built in 2009, it has four bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 2,719 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $115.85. Days on market: One.

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The home at 11198 Ledgement Lane, Windermere, sold July 10, for $545,000. Built in 2003, it has four bedrooms, three baths, two half-baths, a pool and 3,415 square feet. The price per square foot is $159.59. Days on market: Five.

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The home at 5531 Oxford Moor Blvd., Windermere, sold July 13, for $695,000. Built in 2002, it has four bedrooms, four baths and 3,676 square feet. The price per square foot is $189.06. Days on market: Four.

WINDERMERE

BELMERE VILLAGE

The home at 11755 Bella Milano Court, Windermere, sold July 10, for $434,900. Built in 2006, it has five bedrooms, four-and-onehalf baths and 3,121 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $139.35. Days on market: 122. KEENE’S POINTE

The home at 6824 Valhalla Way, Windermere, sold July 10, for $1.297 million. Built in 2004, it has five bedrooms, six-and-

MARINA BAY ESTATES

The home at 11015 Clipper Court, Windermere, sold July 9, for $1.225 million. Built in 1966, it has four bedrooms, three-andone-half baths, a pool and 3,700 square feet. The price per square foot is $331.08. Days on market: 35. TILDENS GROVE

The home at 5305 Tildens Grove Blvd., Windermere, sold July 10, for $820,000. Built in 2005, it has four bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 3,895 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $210.53. Days on market: Six. The home at 5137 Tildens Grove Blvd., Windermere, sold July 9, for $800,000. Built in 2004, it has six bedrooms, four-andone-half baths, a pool and 5,284 square feet. The price per square foot is $151.40. Days on market: 242. WILLOWS AT LAKE RHEA

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Office Hours: Mon: 8-4 OfficeGarden, Hours: Mon: 8-4 Office Hours: Mon: 8-4 Winter Garden, FL 34787 Winter FL 34787 Office Hours: Mon: 8-4 WINDSOR LANDING 213 SHours: Dillard St., Suite 140 Tues-Thurs: 8-12 && 1-5 Tues-Thurs: 8-12 &8-4 1-5 Tues-Thurs: 8-12 1-5 Office Mon: 8-4 Office Hours: Mon: Tues-Thurs: 8-12 & 1-5 The home at 3412 Kentshire Blvd., Winter Garden, FL1-5 34787Fri: 7-1 Fri: 7-1 Fri: 7-1 Tues-Thurs: 8-12 & Tues-Thurs: 8-12 &Appointment! 1-5 Call Today Call Today for Your Appointment!Ocoee, sold July 15, for $511,000. Call Todayfor forYour YourAppointment! Fri: 7-1 Call Today for Your Appointment! Office Hours: Mon: 8-4 Fri: 7-1 Fri: 7-1 Today for Your Appointment! Call Today for Your Appointment! Built in 2003, it has five bedTues-Thurs: 8-12Call & 1-5 rooms, three baths, a pool and Fri: 7-1 Call Today for Your Appointment! 3,559 square feet. The price per MIKE YOAKUM square foot is $143.58. Days on Pastor market: Two.

one-half baths, a pool and 5,866 square feet. The price per square foot is $221.10. Days on market: 175.

The home at 11500 Willow Gardens Drive, Windermere, sold July 10, for $830,000. Built in 1993, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths, a pool and 3,524 square feet. The price per square foot is $235.53. Days on market: 71. WINDERMERE DOWNS

The home at 9667 Woodmont Place, Windermere, sold July 10, for $578,000. Built in 1973, it has five bedrooms, three baths and 3,111 square feet. The price per square foot is $185.79. Days on market: 50.

WINTER GARDEN CANOPY OAKS

The home at 12916 Canopy Woods Way, Winter Garden, sold July 10, for $879,000. Built in 2018, it has four bedrooms, fourand-one-half baths, a pool and 3,665 square feet. The price per square foot is $239.84. Days on market: Two.

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The home at 1024 Sadie Lane, Winter Garden, sold July 15, for $347,500. Built in 2001, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths, a pool and 2,169 square feet. The price per square foot is $160.21. Days on market: 32. LAKE COVE POINTE

The home at 451 Tierra Verde Lane, Winter Garden, sold July 13, for $521,000. Built in 2001, it has four bedrooms, three-andone-half baths and 2,817 square feet. The price per square foot is $184.95. Days on market: Two. STONEYBROOK WEST

The home at 2485 Baronsmede Court, No. 3, Winter Garden, sold July 16, for $445,000. Built in 2004, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 3,228 square feet. The price per square foot is $137.86. Days on market: 205. STOREY GROVE

The home at 10258 Love Story St., Winter Garden, sold July 15, for $455,000. Built in 2019, it has four bedrooms, three-andone-half baths and 3,505 square feet. The price per square foot is $129.81. Days on market: Four. WINTER GARDEN

The home at 14424 Tilden Road, Winter Garden, sold July 10, for $550,000. Built in 1970, it has four bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 3,540 square feet. The price per square foot is $155.37. Days on market: 331. WINTERMERE HARBOR

The home at 13062 Lakeshore Grove Drive, Winter Garden, sold July 13, for $420,000. Built in 1999, it has four bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,669 square feet. The price per square foot is $157.36. Days on market: 129.

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The home at 14025 Country Estate Drive, Winter Garden, sold July 10, for $750,000. Built in 2003, it has five bedrooms, five baths, two half-baths, a pool and 5,108 square feet. The price per square foot is $146,83. Days on market: 207.

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OrangeObserver.com

THESE OLD TIMES

FROM THE WINTER GARDEN HERITAGE FOUNDATION

THURSDAY, JULY 23, 2020

THROWBACK THURSDAY JULY 22, 1971 How does a Hanseatic Caribbean cruise sound right now? Imagine yourself enjoying the sun and surf of Curacao, La Guaira, Trinidad, Barbados, Martinique and St. Thomas, all for as low as $395. The Landseair travel service in Winter Garden advertised a 12-day sailing trip in the July 22, 1971, issue of The Winter Garden Times. The price included extra cocktails; and singles were welcomed, too. The travel agency was located in the West Orange Shopping Center, on Dillard Street in Winter Garden.

85 years ago

Do you see where skirts will be shorter this winter? Shorter and wider. But do deliver us from the atrocities we wore several seasons back, up to our knees. Some famous designers also forecast boots — high-top shoes. Can you imagine them in Florida?

50 years ago

Sam and Marian Wagster are leading a group of high school students on a six-week European tour. They are Jacque Dennis, Betty Heidt, Lorraine McMurtrey, Craig Cox, Carol Sutton, Jill Pitchford, Sally Adkins, Debby Adkins, Janet McMillan, Craig Griffith, Phyllis Hawk and Mary Lea Bradford. At a meeting of the City Council last week, Tom Ritten, of Ocoee, was granted a one-year license to establish a towing service at Winter Garden Road and Silver Star Road Extension. A tragedy was averted at Clermont Beach when several boys pulled a nearly drowned man from the water. Leonard Dyal, 12, and Johnny Dyal, 11, of Winter Garden, and their cousin, Joey Gay, were picnicking with their family when another man called to them to help with the rescue. From Editor’s Notebook: The following was taken from a 1915 issue of the Winter Garden Times — “We believe that if

FROM THE ARCHIVES Fifteen employees of the Valbro Corporation pose at the company’s office, once located at 11 N. Main St. in Winter Garden (a former Coca-Cola distribution point): Ralph Pryor, left, flatbed press room; Bonnie Bray, bindery; George Landers, sales; Louise Vining, bindery; Donald Bennett, rotary press room; A.C. Valdes, president; George Bekemeyer, production manager; J.M. Valdes, secretary-treasurer; Major Womack, rotary press room; Nettie Giddens, bindery; D.J. Giddens, composing room; Marguerite Kennington, office; Charles Littlejohn, composing room; Ralph Swift, flatbed press room; and F.E. Smith, sales.

The mission of the Winter Garden Heritage Foundation is to preserve the heritage and architecture of Winter Garden while creating new cultural experiences. The Foundation also preserves the material culture of West Orange County, using it to educate the area’s youth on the community’s rich history.

they lower Lake Apopka four or five feet, that in the course of 10 years it would be a benefit to Winter Garden. By that time, the mud flats would have dried out and several acres would be added to our trucking lands.”

20 years ago

Winter Garden Mayor Jack Quesinberry and Oakland Mayor Jon VanderLey proclaimed National Garden Week, honoring the Bloom & Grow Garden Society. Their wives,

Gloria Quesinberry and Kay VanderLey, were among the garden club members accepting the proclamations.

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3Bd./2 Ba. BEAUTIFUL BRICK HOME LOCATED IN THE HEART OF OCOEE...This home is a PAMPERED BEAUTY... Classic beauty of first quality construction, lovingly maintained, step inside and be amazed. If you like sitting outside then you have your choice of sitting on the covered screened porch in the front or the covered screened porch in the back. Attached 2 car garage. Great home for 1st time home buyer or down sizing. Some of the FEATURES INCLUDE: DOUBLE PANE WINDOWS-ENERGY EFFICIENT, NEW CARPET JUST INSTALLED IN 2 BEDROOMS, RE-PLUMBED, A/C SYSTEM INSTALLED IN 4/16 AND STILL UNDER WARRANTY. LANDSCAPING PROFESSIONALLY DONE...VINYL FENCED BACK YARD WITH STORAGE SHED.

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OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, JULY 23, 2020

Teacher inspires reading through summer book club

FOUNDATION ACADEMY

For many parents, it’s been a challenge keeping their kids engaged over the summer — and even more of a challenge getting them to read. On top of that, solutions have seemed fewer now considering COVID-19 safety measures. Rosemary Ford, a Sunset Park Elementary teacher and mother, understands this struggle and has made a way to help. This summer, Ford has encouraged kids to explore their books and their minds through Mrs. Ford’s Sunshine State Book Club. This club gives children the opportunity to discover books, exercise their responsibility and discuss their

“Planet Earth is Blue” and “Beatrice Zinker, Upside Down Thinker” are two books Rosemary Ford’s students read this past summer.

Those interested in this club can contact Rosemary Ford at (407) 489-9167. It is open to new members.

thetic to different situations,” Ford said. “That’s sort of why I love the Sunshine State books. They are always super thought-provoking.” Ford keeps her reading groups at a maximum of five students so every kid can have their voice heard without too much distraction. Even for the students who found it more challenging to read the books, after being able to slow down and dissect the text, they were able to learn new vocabulary and aspects of the story. Students interacting with and learning from books that push them has made one of the most memorable moments for Ford. Overall, her favorite part about being able to host this club has been watching the kids learn new things and connect to the stories. She especially loves

the creativity the kids show in their work. For an assignment, one of the students created a movie trailer for the book “Planet Earth is Blue.” Participating in this club has inspired kids to go further in their reading. Some of the kids enjoyed the books so much, they told Ford they wanted to participate in Battle of the Books, a reading program for public schools. Ford said she has been thrilled to hear this from the children; a big goal of hers was for them to develop a love of reading from this experience. As the students went deeper into the book, they all began to grow closer to the story’s perspective and to their peers’ perspectives. Connections like Mrs. Ford’s Sunshine State Book Club can make a lasting impact on children and their views on reading.

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thoughts and learnings virtually with other students. As a mother, Ford knew how hard it can be to motivate kids to read books over the summer. After having classes online for the last nine weeks of school, she knew how to teach virtually and saw it as a safe opportunity to get kids into books. “I thought this (club) might be a nice way to take that accountability or take that responsibility off the parents a little bit,” she said. She also said it was a great way to teach kids to be accountable for their own work and to learn with their peers, which is what she thinks the kids enjoy the most. They feel more motivated to get their work done, and it keeps their brains moving during the summer while having fun with friends. Throughout the summer, club members have read one of the Grades 3-5 Sunshine State books. As the kids read through the chapters, they are given vocabulary and comprehension assignments and meet on Wednesdays through Zoom. Although these meetings are

WE’RE IN THE

ZONE EVERY THURSDAY

With Observer School Zone, we celebrate the achievements of the students and educators at all our West Orange schools and provide unparalleled news coverage. FEATURES INCLUDE: • School News • Photo Galleries • Upcoming Events

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Rosemary Ford’s Sunshine State Book Club meets on Zoom to discuss books and foster a love of reading.

done virtually, Ford still tries her best to make them productive and fun. During the meetings, they do review activities such as virtual Jeopardy! and have in-depth conversations on the books’ themes. In the past, participants have discussed topics such as friendship in the book “Beatrice Zinker, Upside Down Thinker,” and delicate topics such as foster care and death in “Planet Earth is Blue.” “It makes us more empa-

MRS. FORD’S SUNSHINE STATE BOOK CLUB

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OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, JULY 23, 2020

SUMMER SCHOOL ZONE THE MASKED READER

‘Reaching For the Moon: The Autobiography of NASA Mathematician Katherine Johnson’ T GABE GOMES AKA THE MASKED READER

here is a very popular quote stated by Norman Vincent Peale that says, “Shoot for the moon. Even if you miss, you’ll land among the stars.” Well, unfortunately, that wasn’t an option for Katherine Johnson in 1969. As a NASA mathematician, if she succeeded, then she would have been part of history and made history at the same time. If not, the lives and jobs of many would have been in jeopardy. And all of this is mentioned in her book “Reaching For the Moon: The Autobiography of NASA Mathematician Katherine Johnson.” In her autobiography, Mrs. Johnson gives an insight on the difficulties, tragedy and triumphs of growing up as a black woman in a racist community, as well as some incredible accomplishments she made in her later life. This book also addresses some problems that still exist today, such as how people still discriminate against women of color. Johnson helped make the calculations that sent the first people

to the moon: Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin and Michael Collins. This book got my attention at first because I am largely obsessed with space (sue me). But the book became even more interesting once I found out about how people such as Mrs. Johnson helped pave the way for equality. When Mrs. Johnson started working, everyone looked down on her. But now, they even named an entire section of NASA after her. This woman has inspired me and others to never discriminate, underestimate or judge anyone by things that they can’t control. I absolutely loved this book, and I hope it inspires people for generations to step up when it is hard — just like what she has done. And, although Mrs. Johnson is not alive anymore (she died in 2020 after living 101 years), her work lives on. I hope many people find out just how important she was. After all, if you put your mind to it, like her, you can always reach for the moon.

ONLINE

For more book reviews from The Masked Reader, visit his YouTube channel, bit. ly/2BMi0Lh.

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OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, JULY 23, 2020

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

THESE TIMES

EPISCOPAL

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

Courtesy photo

Welcome to my castle

METHODIST

First United Methodist Church 125 N. Lakeview Ave., Winter Garden (407) 656-1135 Services: Livestreaming Sunday @ 9 AM. Viewable on Facebook and Youtube

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

AMY QUESINBERRY COMMUNITY EDITOR

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

We realize that not everyone is ready to move forward for any number of reasons.

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am royalty. Well, my family has its own castle. OK, OK, it’s really just a crumbling remainder of the majestic palace of yore. But — it’s a castle, nonetheless. And it bears my name. The origins, anyway. It was exciting to find out I have a castle, but then I learned I have a whole village honoring me. (Please don’t burst my bubble.) I’m on my way to haute and elite. The remains of Questenberg Castle are visible in the steep Harz Mountains above the small Questenberg village in Saxony-Anhalt, Germany. It supposedly means “crested peak” or “plumed mountain.” Whether we sign our name Questenberg, Quissinborow, Questynbery, Questenbury, Quisenberry, Quesenberry or, my personal favorite, Quesinberry — we are just one big probably-mostof-us-are-happy family. It is believed all of us Q’s are descended from one man. High up on our ancestral tree is the granddaddy of us all: Tielmann von Questenberg, born in Brunswick, Germany, around 1380. He is noted as being the first to bear the surname Questenberg in our lineage. I discovered a book on the families of that region that says the Questenbergs “rose in three generations from ordinary burghers to be barons, counts and imperial counts.” I’m so proud of them; talk about social climbers. Some sources say Tielmann’s father’s name was Heinrich, others say his name was Hermann — Lord Hermann, Count von Questenberg, an “Imperial Councillor of His Roman Imperial Majesty.” How’s that for a title? So, technically, he was the count “of” Questenberg; it wasn’t his last name. I also learned that two generations after Papa Tielmann, we married an English woman and settled in Canterbury, England. By then, the name had evolved. We crossed the great pond to Virginia in the 1600s, made a few more spelling changes to the name, moved to Kentucky in the late 1780s and stayed there for many generations. It has been fascinating to search on Ancestry.com and see origi-

nal documents that were created decades before I was born. The U.S. Census conducts a headcount of the population every 10 years, and it’s easy to discover who was living under the same roof at a given time. I have found that early census officials wrote illegibly and were prone to misspelling names, and the earlier the census, the more chances there are of an incorrect name. Many people could not spell their own names, so the census takers had to guess the spelling of the name based on how it was phonetically pronounced. I personally know the struggle people have when it comes to correctly pronouncing or spelling my last name. It’s been butchered my entire life. The name is revered in Germany even today. If you ever find yourself visiting Questenberg — and why wouldn’t you? — you need to go in the spring to witness something that is sure to be really fun — the Questen Festival, or Questenfest! I’m betting the annual event’s modern-day version includes a photo of me somewhere in the celebration. The spring festival is an old village tradition that takes place on Pentecost weekend and involves an ancient pagan sun wheel (the queste) and a tree (the questenbaum). As the village’s history dictates, a peeled oak trunk is carried up a high hill by the village’s manly men every 10 years. It is decorated with a wreath made of tree branches and two tassels made of birch twigs. At sunrise on the Monday after Pentecost, the villagers remove the old wreath and burn it. In the afternoon, a wreath and tassels made from fresh birch and beech green are tied to the trunk until the next year’s festival. There are several versions of the reason for the celebration. One legend says the castle lord lost his daughter in the nearby forest and asked the villagers to help look for her. On the third day of the Pentecost holiday, they found her in a field playing with a crest with two tassels. Some guy’s blog said it represented war, order and organized society. Another explanation is that it was originally a fertility symbol. Another called it a Germanic sun cult. I swear I’m not making this up. At the top of my bucket list is to visit Questenberg and Questenberg Castle, definitely in the springtime. I wonder if Quesinberrys get free admission or a free refrigerator magnet? Also on my list is a visit to Carew Castle, a family get-away in Wales on another branch of Daddy’s tree on his mother’s side. But that’s a story for another time. Isn’t ancestry fascinating? You might want to see what your ancestors were up to. You could have a castle, village or festival, too.

JULY 23, 2020

SPORTS

Winter Garden resident Ethan Brown has become a force on the mound for the Winter Garden Squeeze. Page 16.

Lakers bring on new batch of coaches Windermere Prep will see new faces leading its baseball, girls basketball, cheerleading and volleyball programs this school year. TROY HERRING SPORTS EDITOR

The campus of Windermere Prep may be quiet now, but the school’s athletic department has been busy. Last week, the school announced the addition of four new head coaches who will be taking over programs at the school, including Roger Peluso (volleyball), Adam Taylor (baseball), Audrey Petterson (cheer) and Radhika Miller (girls basketball). ROGER PELUSO

For the last 19 years, Roger Peluso led the Ransom Everglades girls volleyball program to new heights. In 2013, his Raiders team won the FHSAA state title, and he was named Florida Dairy Farmers and Miami Herald Coach of the Year for his leadership. For the past year, Peluso taught and coached at Winter Park High School, but when the job opened at Windermere Prep, he couldn’t say no — mainly because he saw how supportive the community and administration was at the school. “They see the potential in things, and I really like that,” Peluso said. “I like to be a part of things that grow — I’m a little older now, and I’ve been on the other side of it where you are kind of just part of it, and I like it. It’s a lot of fun to see the before and after.” Although questions remain about the start of the season because of COVID-19, Peluso hopes he and his athletes can get to the court sooner than later. “I just hope that whatever is modified that the kids who are in the program have an opportunity to play,” Peluso said. “I feel like we’ve been away from sports so much that this is the one thing that is a positive.”

The sandlot

With Little League seasons long canceled, local children take to the field at Veteran’s Memorial Park in Winter Garden for Sandlot Days. TROY HERRING SPORTS EDITOR

or a brief few hours, everything in the world is right. On this surprisingly breezy Friday night, Field 1 at Veteran’s Memorial Park in Winter Garden is lively, as the sounds of laughing children and metal bats pinging loudly create a cacophony of sound that together creates a traditional song of summer that hasn’t been heard in months. For some of these 12- and 13-year-olds, this is the first time they have been able to take to the field with their friends for a baseball game since they found

out the Little League season was canceled in May. But right now — in this moment of sandlot baseball — everything is perfect with children playing on the field. “It’s been really good,” said Winter Garden Little Leaguer Joseph Griffin, 12. “I’ve been thinking about taking a break from baseball, but they got me hooked onto this.” For Jack Patterson, who plays for the Winter Garden Junior Squeeze, this summer has been a strange one, but he is happy to get back together for a game with his buddies. “It’s weird, but also not weird, because I’m traveling ball,” Jack SEE RETURNING PAGE 16

RADHIKA MILLER

Photos by Troy Herring

Nick Tanko fired off a pitch during Friday night’s game.

When it comes to basketball, Radhika Miller just can’t get enough. A native of Tennessee, Miller joins the Lakers family following an impressive nine-year stint at Cumberland County High School, where she led the Lady Jets to six district championships, five sub-state sectional games and was named coach of the year four times. SEE WP PAGE 16

SPORTS SPOTLIGHT

OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, JULY 23, 2020

SPONSORED BY MARK’S FLOORING AND SHANNON TILL/STATE FARM IN FOWLER GROVES

Ethan Brown

A lefty for the Winter Garden Squeeze, Ethan Brown has become one of head coach Terry Abbott’s go-to guys on the mound. In five games, the Winter Garden resident has tossed 16 strikeouts and holds a 3.00 ERA in 12 innings pitched.

When did you first get into baseball? It was as long (back) as I can remember. When I first started, I was actually a righty, but after that — throwing-wise — mechanics are kind of weird, so one of my coaches back in the day said, “Maybe he is a lefty.” A few days later, I got my first lefty glove, and it’s been a ride ever since.

THE BASICS TEAM: Winter Garden Squeeze POSITION: Pitcher AGE: 20 RESIDES: Winter Garden SCHOOL/YEAR: Seminole State College/Junior

championship. I was able to close out both games on the same day … nine pitches, three Ks each time. I think that was when I first realized this was something serious, and I could take it far.

What kept you in the sport for so long? It’s just how the game is actually played itself. It doesn’t end from a timer; you have to compete to win, you have to compete to the end. And just the fact me being the lefty pitcher that I am, of my caliber as I was growing up, just made it fun and easy for me, so I guess it stuck with me. And I did play football and basketball, but (they) just didn’t click like baseball did.

What is your favorite part about pitching? The hardest part? I would say the most fun part is, on off-days, being able to hang out with the grinders in the bullpen — really just being able to enjoy the time and bond with the players. As far as the challenging part, it’s stepping on the mound — everyone’s eyes are on you and you have to compete.

What’s been the biggest change you’ve seen in yourself since you first started? I would say maturity level — just learning more about the in-depth logistics and analysis of the game itself, instead of going out there throwing a fastball or curveball. On top of that, I would also say growing as a person — the game teaches you so much, in and outside of the team.

How do you mentally get past having a difficult outing? I feel like it’s something you either have it or you don’t. If you have a short mindset, you’re able to just put games like that behind and focus on the next outing. I feel like that is a huge part, as well as having helpful teammates that are going to back you up.

Is there a moment that stands out for you during your baseball career? Back when I was 12 years old, we had a little tournament going on and for the semifinal game, as well as the

How has this season been going for you with the Squeeze? It’s progressively gotten better. I feel like during the coronavirus break, even though I was still was throwing, there were some mechanical tweaks that I just didn’t focus on, and I started realizing that as I started to get video during the season. — TROY HERRING

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Returning to the ballfield said. “It’s not fun when you don’t get to play with your friends.” SANDLOT DAYS

When Winter Garden Little League announced in May that the summer season wouldn’t happen, there was a lot of disappointment, WGLL President Jaclyn Lowe said. “It’s been kind of sad on both a personal and president level, because my kids love to play baseball and you get in that baseball groove — where you’re playing, fall, spring and AllStars over the summer,” Lowe said. “But when there is nothing, then you’re kind of like, ‘Hmph, what do I do?’” The answer would come through an option offered by Little League known as Sandlot Days. And luckily, thanks to support from the city of Winter Garden, the organization was given permission to hold games at Veteran’s Memorial Park. As the name entails, Sandlot Days involves loosely organized games where children can go out and just enjoy the game of baseball without the stress of winning and losing, Lowe said. “These kids are having so much fun, and it kind of takes it back to that really old-school playground (baseball),” Lowe said. “Kids are in charge, there is no pressure, and they’re just out there — there is no match-

Troy Herring

Chace Kessler appreciates the chance to play baseball.

ing uniforms, and it’s like on the playground. “They seem like they’re having a lot more fun than they do when they get into the Little League setting or the travel-ball setting (where) it’s about winning,” she said. “Now, it’s just being out there messing around.” PLAY BALL

The Sandlot Days started in mid-June with little marketing — Lowe wanted to get a test run in to see how things went before taking the program public. A few weeks later, things were set to go public and allow children — both from the league and outside of it — to come out and play. Since then, 96 players have registered to play across the four different age groups offered by WGLL: Tuesday night is for the youngest children (6-, 7- and 8-year-olds), Thursday night is for the oldest (13-, 14-, 15- and 16-year-olds), Friday night is for the Little League majors group

WP adds coaches Miller, who first got into coaching after graduating from the University of North Alabama, is quite familiar with Windermere Prep. For the last five years, she brought her team down to participate in the Rock Holiday Classic basketball tournament held at the school. “I’m excited to be a part of it,” Miller said. “I developed some good friendships here with some of the other coaches and people here in the area, and to have an opportunity to come and be a part of this great community here at Windermere Prep, it’s a new journey.” The basketball season doesn’t start for a while, but Miller has been ready to go since she got here, she said. “I want the players to buy in to what I want this program to be about,” Miller said. “I want this program to be built on a defensive foundation … and hard work.” ADAM TAYLOR

Adam Taylor’s life always has revolved around baseball.

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Following his collegiate playing days at Randolph-Macon College, he moved on to the coaching side of the game, and for the past 17 years, that’s where he’s been. Taylor has had coaching stints at several schools — including the University of Richmond — where he served in different roles before going into coaching in the private school and travel-ball realms. Much like the other new coaches joining the Lakers, Taylor was impressed by the school. “After the interview process — which took a while, understandably — and being able to go over and see the facilities and what was in place, I knew it was a really good fit,” Taylor said. “I’m excited. It’s certainly my first high school head-coaching job, but not my first rodeo.”

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(11- and 12-year-olds), and Saturday morning is for children who are 9 and 10 years old. And although the children largely run the program on the field, adults who normally coach — such as Kyle Flannigan (7-, 8- and 9-year-olds), Steve Puhr (10- and 11-year olds), Josh Steele and Jerry Johnston (11and 12-year-olds) and Marcus Griffin (13 years and older) — play the roles of supervisors and officials. Seeing how the young players adapt and do things has been the best part of the whole experience, Steele said. “It’s cool to watch the kids, and put the responsibility on them and see how they handle things — they go out there and pick their own teams and they pick positions and everything like that,” Steele said. “It’s been fun to watch them kind of grow a little bit themselves at that age and kind of almost coach their own teams.” So far, the experiment has been going well, with kids generally following social distancing and other guidelines that were put into place to allow this to happen. At this point whatever it takes to keep playing baseball, they’ll do it, because for some — if not all — it’s the dream of dreams. “When I get older, I want to play for a Major League team,” Jack said. “I don’t care who I get on, I just want to play baseball.”

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15

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CHLOE MARIE THORNTON DIED JULY 16, 2020.

Patricia Lyndsey Davis, age 73, entered into eternal rest on July 7, 2020, after a long, hard and well-fought battle with several cancers. Born to Virgil and Margaret Lindsey on Aug. 5, 1946. Pat, Mom and Nana, as many knew her by, grew up in Ocoee, Florida, later moving to Tennessee. She was well known for her spunk, love and all-around sense of humor. She served many friends and family at her restaurant in Ocoee, named Pat’s Kountry Fixin’s, where she never met a stranger and loved and cared for her customers as her own family. Pat will be missed deeply by all those who knew her. She is survived by her Son, Robbie (Barbara) Casey; Daughters, Becky Snyder, Samie (Jeff) Bennett and Sherry Keith; and Son, Ried Wiedman. She is a loving Nana to 24 grandkids and 25 greatgrandchildren. She is preceded in death by her Parents, her loving Husband and Daughter.

Fonda Hardy, Alvis Hardy, James Hardy, Millard Hardy and Billy Hardy. Chloe is survived by her sister, Elaine Creech; as well as her children, Anna Hopper (Mike), Stanley Thornton, Connie Gagnon and Beverly Thornton; grandchildren, Jennifer Mosley, Wayne Mosley (Danielle), Barry Mosley, Amanda Arvanetes (Timothy), Trent Hopper (Brandi) and Shannon Hopper; and great-grandchildren, Rylan Chloe Marion, Charleigh Gonzalez, Quinn Gonzalez, Allisyn Mosley, Levi Mos-

Michael A. Kalagian, 77, of Ocoee, died July 14, 2020. Winter Oak Funeral Home and Cremations.

Marjorie Ann LaVornia, 75, of Ocoee, died July 17, 2020. DeGusipe Funeral Home & Crematory, Ocoee.

Andrew J. Gillespie, 90, of Ocoee, died July 17, 2020. Winter Oak Funeral Home and Cremations.

Richard Patterson, 64, of Winter Garden, died July 18, 2020. Winter Oak Funeral Home and Cremations.

Marie M. Clifford, 93, of Winter Garden, died July 17, 2020. Winter Oak Funeral Home and Cremations.

Mark Edward Sterns, 64, of Ocoee, died July 15, 2020. Collison Carey Hand Funeral Home, Winter Garden. Corlis Yasutake, 77, of Windermere, died July 18, 2020. Winter Oak Funeral Home and Cremations.

Jonathan D. Fallucca, 34, of Winter Garden, died July 17, 2020. Winter Oak Funeral Home and Cremations.

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Jacqueline, originally from the south shore of Massachusetts, moved to Winter Garden to reside with her daughter and son-in-law, Laureen Josselyn and Albert Clancy, in 2015. After a time, she moved to Inspired Living in Ocoee and then to Winter Garden Rehabilitation and Nursing center, formerly known as Quality Healthcare in Winter Garden. Both facilities are gems of the West Orange community. Jacqueline’s full obituary can be seen on Legacy.com.

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Chloe Marie Thornton, known to many as “Chloe from Ocoee,” passed away peacefully on July 16, 2020, at the age of 87. Chloe Marie Thornton was born in Arab, Alabama, on Dec. 3, 1932, to Elbert and Ada Hardy. At the age of 11, Chloe and her family moved to the city of Ocoee, where she attended Ocoee Elementary, Ocoee High and graduated from Lakeview High School. She was very proud to have lived most of her life in Ocoee and wore a pin inscribe “Ocoee Mom.” She was a devout Christian, wonderful wife, mother, grandmother, sister and friend. Chloe was preceded in death by her loving husband, Jesse Edward Thornton Jr.; sisters, Etna Howard and Etha Hall; and brothers,

ley, Clayton Mosley, Sebastian Hopper, Emily Cockrell, Chloe Hopper, Jayden Colon, Joshua Arvanetes, Lauren Lopez, Jacob Arvanetes, Katie Hopper, Luke Hopper, Kinley Hopper and baby girl due in December; as well as many extended family members and friends whom she loved dearly. Visitation and gathering will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, July 23, 2020, at the West Orlando Baptist Church, 1006 E. Crown Point Road, Ocoee, Florida. Funeral services will directly follow at 11 a.m. Chloe is in the care of Collison Carey Hand Funeral Home in Winter Garden, Florida. If attending the visitation or services, we kindly recommend you follow local and state guidelines regarding the current public health advisory as it relates to social distancing and face covering.

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