12.09.21 West Orange Times & Observer by Orange Observer

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021

Record book rewritten Ocoee High School’s Jasmyne Wright reached a 1,000-point career total last week. SEE PAGE 15.

Crowning achievement

Residents: HELI-NO! After local opposition, Riegl USA put its plans for a helipad on hold. SEE PAGE 2.

YOUR TOWN ELKS TO HOST FUNDRAISER The Winter Garden Elks Lodge is holding a fundraising rally for The Firehood Foundation. The rally will take place from noon to 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 11, at the BPOE No. 2165, 700 S. Ninth St., Winter Garden. The event includes a 50/50 raffle and a chance to win a whiskey barrel bar or a set of corn hole boards. Tom “Bull” Hill has been walking to raise money for the foundation for many years. His next walk is in January 2022, and this fundraiser is to assist Hill in his journey. The foundation provides financial and emotional support to first responders and their families. For more, visit thefirehoodfoundation.org.

SWELL TIME! West Orange welcomes the holiday season with festive family fun. SEE PAGES 6-8.

Festival supports Disney cast-offs

The holiday festival will raise money for the Cast Member Pantry. SEE PAGE 4. PRSRT STD ECRWSS US POSTAGE PAID WINTER GARDEN, FL PERMIT NO. 81

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OBSERVER SCHOOL ZONE

Courtesy photo

Alyson Chu, the first Mrs. Winter Garden America, is working with Shepherd’s Hope as part of her platform of healthy living. SEE STORY ON PAGE 4.

Moore the merrier! WOHS’ Payton Moore earned national honors for excellence in FFA. SEE PAGE 13.

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021

Riegl USA postpones helipad plans The news was shared during a standing-roomonly meeting last week. JIM CARCHIDI ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Riegl USA has postponed its request for a helipad in Winter Garden as it seeks alternatives. The announcement came during a Nov. 30 meeting regarding the helipad request. Winter Garden City Commissioner Ron Mueller said 173 residents — many from the Brandy Creek and Oaks at Brandy Lake communities — attended that meeting. Chairs were even placed in the hallway to accommodate the overflow. Riegl USA’s headquarters, 14707 West Colonial Drive, is especially close to Brandy Creek and the Oaks at Brandy Lake. Residents were surprised by a recent series of low helicopter flights from the proposed helipad site, raising concerns for safety and the impact of noise levels. Interim City Manager Jon Williams said a special allowance was made for the tests, but n o

further flight approvals have been issued. The company opened its 18,500-square-foot facility last year, with the intention to expand. A helipad was an intended addition, and, according to Riegl USA Project Manager Stephen Aldridge, the company presented the plan two years ago to the city. “We are here to listen to you,” Riegl USA Senior Vice President Jim Van Rens told the audience at the start of the meeting. He explained the company’s need for a helipad but conceded the need for further discussion. “Companies such as Duke Energy and Florida Power & Light use our technology to monitor vegetation growth that destroys power lines during hurricane season, so the helicopter pad is critical to support our customers when time is of the essence,” he said. “We will put on hold the helipad and the Winter Garden campus development plans to hear your concerns. We look forward to working with the city of Winter Garden and our neighbors on a mutually beneficial solution.” Van Rens’ statement failed to put the audience at ease. Brandy Creek resident Lynn Fitzgerald was first to comment. “We have veterans in our subdivi-

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expressed her concern for the longrange effects of the helipad. “If this gets approved; guess what? It may get approved in Ocoee,” she said. “And I don’t want to have to deal with this issue in my city. This has to stop.” Oaks at Brandy Lake resident Ken Alessi presented a slideshow of FAA regulations he said were violated. Riegl USA President Johannes Riegl Jr. said the FAA has reviewed and accepted the plans. But Van Rens received applause with an admission. “We probably have been remiss in not trying to communicate with the community earlier,” he said. “It’s clear that everyone is against this. We hear that clearly, there’s no confusion.” City leaders took turns addressing the audience at the end of the meeting.

“I was actually touching the wall of my house. It’s solid, poured cement and I could feel it (vibrating). Over time, it’s going to destroy the drywall, the ceiling.” — Nicholas Wilson, resident near Riegl USA headquarters

“This is not an approval process; this is not scheduled on any City Commission meetings as of yet,” Winter Garden Community Development Director Steve Pash said. “We hold these meetings to gather all of your comments.” “We understand, based upon the presentation that was made here tonight, the project is on hold,” Williams said. “We’ll certainly keep in touch with the HOAs to make sure you are duly informed throughout this entire process.” Mueller took the mic as audience members pressed him to comment on a City Commission vote. “We appreciate (Riegl USA’s) business; this is how our city grows,” he said. “But the give-and-take is, you can’t have everything you want. … It’s horribly impactful to all of us, and it’s clear that it can’t go forward. If it came before the board, I would vote no.” After the meeting, Riegl reiterated the hold on the project and stated there was no timeline for the expansion but he hoped a compromise could eventually be reached. “We heard the concerns, and we understand them,” he said. “It’s not a convenience. … We really do need (the helipad) for moving our business forward and supporting out critical customer base. We still want to see if there are possibilities.”

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sion who lived through the Vietnam War, and believe me, helicopters are not a pleasant sound (for them) to be hearing,” she said. Fitzgerals also cited possible noise disruptions for young children and residents working from home, as well as the fear of declining property values. “This project will change the quality of our lives,” she said. “It really comes down to this: did the company act as a good neighbor to us by not letting us know about this until now?” The meeting lasted more than 90 minutes and included comments from about 30 residents. Blake Price, a resident of the Oaks at Brandy Lake, wanted information on possible zoning changes and controls on helipad activity. “Just because you use it once a month doesn’t mean that, when you decide to move your company and somebody else moves in, that it doesn’t get used daily or hourly,” he said. Nicholas Wilson, whose home is across the pond from the Riegl USA headquarters, described his experience during last week’s helicopter activity. “I was actually touching the wall of my house,” he said. “It’s solid, poured cement, and I could feel it (vibrating). Over time, it’s going to destroy the drywall, the ceiling.” Ocoee resident Melissa Myers

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021

Amaryllis Festival set to bloom at Nehrling Gardens An abundance of flowering plants and artwork will be for sale during the annual holiday event Dec. 11. AMY QUESINBERRY COMMUNITY EDITOR

A beautiful sight! CHRIS MARTUCCI SPORTS EDITOR

rivers making their way through downtown Windermere will notice a mural of a cartoon reindeer with the phrase “Merry Christmas” painted above it in big white letters on the side of Vintage Realty’s office. The festive artwork was created by students from The First Academy’s chapter of the National Art Honor Society. Every year, the real-estate firm invites one of the area’s private schools to paint a mural in the spirit of the Christmas season on the side of its office building. Last year, Foundation Academy was given the task, and this year was TFA’s turn. A city tradition, the Christmas Mural has become an anticipated part of festivities, gaining media attention even as it is being created. After a week of hard work, the mural was officially unveiled during the Light Up Windermere event Nov. 19. TFAs NAHS adviser Cynthia Collins said after the previous year, this was a chance not only for her students but also the whole community to come together and bring some muchneeded festive cheer. “To pass down the importance of art in the community …some of the people who were involved with Right Brain projects were more successful with that,” she said. “It was a really fun thing to get back to. Windermere is an amazing town. They’re so sweet; anytime we start and get the scaffolding up, they’re already coming and saying they can’t wait.” The students who worked on the project also learned the value of coming together and merging their talents toward a common goal. Whether they are a two-dimensional artist or a three-dimensional artist, they all had to work on this project together and make it as successful as it could be. “We have a tendency to stay in our groups, except on these projects, so we got to work as a whole group,” Collins said, adding there were 40 students in the whole group. “It was a good bonding experience.” The project was especially personal for chapter chaplain Paris Wilson because she is a Windermere resident. Furthermore, she said it served as a chance for her to get to know some of the other TFA students she wouldn’t otherwise get to know. “As a senior leader, it was fun getting to know the next generation of artists and hang out with them,” Wilson said. “It’s always fun giving back to our community.” President Miguel Otoch added this was the third time TFA has been asked to do a mural and his second. “It was a fun experience,” he said.

Downtown Windermere features custom holiday artwork created by students from The First Academy.

IF YOU GO

MURAL PROCESS

National Art Honor Society students spent a week transferring their creation to the 12-foot-tall wall at Vintage Realty, 501 Main St., Windermere.

“We went on a Friday to paint, and I went on Wednesday to help. I like it a lot.” “It was exciting because with COVID, everything was taken away last year,” Vice President Faith McCray said. “It helped me realize everything we took for granted. The fact we finally got to do something, it was exciting for us.” What made the work fun for them was having passing drivers shout out encouragement, such as “Go TFA,” and “Looks great,” as they were working on the mural. People out for a walk would stop and come over to chat and take pictures with them, as well.

Ten years ago, Nehrling Gardens planned a free nature-themed community event with some amaryllis bulbs and a few vendors. Today, the 10th annual Holiday Amaryllis Festival has grown to include food, music, children’s crafts, a variety of plants, and many more vendors and visitors. Angela Withers, president of Nehrling’s board of directors, said people anticipate the event each year so they can purchase their amaryllis bulbs for themselves and for gifts. “They want to get the special amaryllis bulbs,” she said. “They are a wonderful Florida plant. You see them full force at Christmas, and then you stick them in the garden, and then in the spring, there they are.” Vendor booths will be set up and offering a variety of plants and other items. Participants include Nehrling Gardens, selling blooming and boxed Amaryllis, a variety of garden plants and holiday items in the gift shop; Amaryllis Spectacularis, offering unique and rare amaryllis bulbs; Russell’s Bromeliads, with air plants, succulents and bromeliads; Hicks Orchids, with orchids and orchid supplies; Roger Kipp, selling folk art holiday gifts and artwork; David Bloodgood Pottery, offering hand-thrown glazed pots and other items; Seminole Springs Herb Farm, with organic herbs and antique roses; and Backhaus German Bakery & Deli, selling sandwiches and traditional German baked treats. “One wonderful addition in terms of vendors is Wild Birds Unlimited, and they are the fabulous company that sell the best bird feeders, bird seed, all your special squirrel-proof bird feeders,” Withers said. Folks can visit with the owls and raptors from Avian Reconditioning Center Birds of Prey at the lakefront from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.; and attend a program on Culture, Care & Hybridization of Amaryllis by Theresa Schretzmann-Myers at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Dragon Bamboo will host children’s eco-activities and eco-education. Lenore Eastham, a retired Orange County Public Schools art teacher, will offer a craft station with a takehome tooled foil ornament that can be hung inside or outside. Children can make peanut-butter pinecone bird feeders to take home and hang in their trees, too. David Chomanics, a resident caretaker at Nehrling, will set up his Florida Ecology Outpost and share his amazing collection of bones, bugs and other natural items. There will be holiday music from the Olympia High School strings students, raffle drawings and photo opportunities throughout the gardens. Nehrling is supporting two charities and collecting items from guests who wish to contribute — non-perishable food for the West Orange Christian Service Center and unwrapped toys for the Winter Garden Police Department’s Holiday Gifts for Kids program.

Courtesy photos

NATIONAL ART HONOR SOCIETY The purpose of the National Art Honor Society at TFA is to inspire and recognize students with God-given artistic ability and bring art education to the attention of the school and community.

10TH ANNUAL HOLIDAY AMARYLLIS FESTIVAL WHEN: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 11 WHERE: Nehrling Gardens, 2267 Hempel Ave., Gotha. DETAILS: The gardens will feature beautiful and rare amaryllis bulbs for sale, as well as blooming amaryllis and other plants for the holidays. INFORMATION: info@nehrlinggardens.org

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021

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

“Road to Serfdom,” 1944 Editor and Publisher / Michael Eng, meng@OrangeObserver.com Design Editor / Jessica Eng, jeng@OrangeObserver.com Community Editor / Amy Quesinberry, amyq@OrangeObserver.com Associate Editor / Jim Carchidi, jcarchidi@OrangeObserver.com Sports Editor /Chris Martucci, cmartucci@OrangeObserver.com Staff Writer / Annabelle Sikes, asikes@OrangeObserver.com Multimedia Advertising Executives / Iggy Collazo, iggy@OrangeObserver.com Cyndi Gustafson, advertising@OrangeObserver.com Creative Services / Lindsay Cannizzaro, lcannizzaro@OrangeObserver.com

Alyson Chu’s platform is healthy living, and she is partnering with Shepherd’s Hope to help bring this to families in need.

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Meet Mrs. Winter Garden AMY QUESINBERRY COMMUNITY EDITOR

lyson Chu has created a healthy lifestyle for herself and her family, and she wants to share it with others. The West Orange County resident accepted the Mrs. Winter Garden America title in October, and, through her platform, is partnering with Shepherd’s Hope and its new Healthy Eating Active Lifestyle program. Chu will compete Feb. 25 and 26, 2022, at the Westgate Resort Orlando for the title of Mrs. Florida America 2022. She is the first person to hold the Mrs. Winter Garden Florida title. Contestants are nominated by members of the pageant committee. “Someone from the committee had known about me in the community and reached out … and (wanted) me to apply and be considered for the role,” Chu said. She went through the application and interview process before the title was bestowed upon her. She is one of about 20 contestants vying for the crown at the state level. As Mrs. Winter Garden, Chu is available to speak to organizations and community groups sharing her story and her platform of healthy living. She already has spoken to students at Maxey Elementary School about healthy eating and staying active, as well as a group of senior citizens at the West Orange Neighborhood Center. Chu said she did her own research after accepting her title. She wanted to select an organization that allowed her to give back to the community but

also aligned with the healthy lifestyle she has embraced. She reached out to Healthy West Orange, which directed her to Shepherd’s Hope. “I went to go tour their facility about a month ago, and I was so taken aback by all the services they offer and all the new projects they offer,” she said. “The biggest thing for them is making more people aware that they’re located there and the services they offer.” Her goal is to raise awareness of Shepherd’s Hope’s HEAL program, which promotes eating healthy and staying active. It is slated to start in the new year. “HEAL addresses your mind, body and soul,” Chu said. “Examples are eating healthy foods, growing healthy foods, exercising (and) practicing mindfulness. Another part is mental health, and I’m proud to be working with Victoria’s Voice.” This foundation was started after the death of Victoria Siegel, the 18-year-old daughter of David and Jackie Siegel, who died of a drug overdose in 2015. Chu said she is excited about this next chapter in her life and the opportunity to help others. She has lived in Central Florida since 2007, and she and her husband, Ryan, moved to Winter Garden in 2016. They have a 3-year-old daughter, Aliyah. “We definitely fell in love with the sense of community the city has to offer,” she said. The Mrs. Florida America Pageant is a part of the Mrs. America Organization. The 2022 pageant is Feb. 25 and 26, when Brittany Carson, the 2021 Mrs. Florida America, will be on hand to crown her successor. Carson, a native

TO SUPPORT ALYSON CHU Email: alysonbchu@gmail.com Instagram: @_alysonpaige_ Facebook: Alyson Chu LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/alysonchu

Floridian born and raised in Central Florida, is an advanced practice nurse practitioner caring for critical patients in the emergency room setting. Her platform is child safety and drug prevention. Sponsorship is key to being a successful pageant contestant. Chu has several sponsors but is looking for others who can support her platform and her bid for Mrs. Florida America. “If anyone would like to support my cause, please email me,” she said. “I have some great opportunities that showcase local businesses that help support a healthy lifestyle. I will be working with Shepherd’s Hope organization, and a portion of the sponsorships will be helping families in need by expanding outreach and providing healthy meals.” She also has been working with local farms creating healthy food baskets and giving them to families in need, she said. “I wanted to do this because I wanted to create a legacy for my daughter to know me as more than just her mommy, but someone who wanted to help give back to her community and help others in need,” Chu said. “I want to continue to show my daughter what it means to live a healthy lifestyle and build a strong foundation.”

Holiday festival will raise funds for Cast Member Pantry AMY QUESINBERRY COMMUNITY EDITOR

An afternoon of fun is being planned for this weekend, and the community is invited to enjoy games, food, activities and a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus. The Cast Member Pantry Holiday Festival will take place Saturday, Dec. 11, in Horizon West. The 10 vendors are former Walt Disney World cast members who were furloughed after the coronavirus pandemic began. They will be selling a variety of items that could make perfect holiday gifts, including edible arrangements, wreaths, holiday decorations, customizable gifts such as water bottles and keychains, and door hangers. “They turned their creativity into side hustles, and some of them are even doing this full time,” Emily Lartigue said. “You can find a gift for everyone.” Lartigue was a seven-year cast

member with Walt Disney World when she was furloughed. She started the Cast Member Pantry in March 2020 when she saw how many Disney employees also were furloughed. The pantry, set up at a local storage unit, enabled them to pick up donated food goods, toiletries and other necessities. Lartigue began setting up appointments for people to shop for items. She got her start at Disney through the college program, moving up from a Blizzard Beach lifeguard to a consultant in organization development. She was furloughed not long after getting this dream job, she said. This festival is for the West Orange County community, but it’s also about giving back to the cast member community, Lartigue said. Those who take their blue or green identification cards can get a free family photograph with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Other attendees can have a Santa photo taken for $5.

The event also is serving as a fundraiser for the pantry, and although attendance is free, there will be opportunities for people to have some fun and monetarily support the pantry at the same time. There will be a giant candy cane scavenger hunt for $5, face painting, opportunities for children to make ornaments and a chance to adopt a puppy or kitten from Creegan Canine Rescue. “We wanted to do an in-person event for a while for the Cast Member Pantry, but we wanted to wait until everyone had their chance to get vaccinated,” Lartigue said. “The goal of the event is to raise funds for Cast Member Pantry … and highlighting the cast member vendors was important.” Lartigue said the food trucks also will be donating a portion of their proceeds to the pantry. A gift-wrapping station will be set up, and attendees who make

“I went to go tour (the Shepherd’s Hope) facility about a month ago, and I was so taken aback by all the services they offer and all the new projects they offer,.The biggest thing for them is making more people aware that they’re located there and the services they offer.”

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

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— Alyson Chu

IF YOU GO CAST MEMBER PANTRY HOLIDAY FESTIVAL WHEN: Noon to 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 11 WHERE: On the campus of Family Church, 8464 Winter Garden Vineland Road, Orlando DETAILS: The party will be a fun day of games, food, local vendors and a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus. Proceeds will benefit the Cast Member Pantry for Walt Disney World employees in need.

a purchase can get their packages wrapped on the spot for a fee. Entertainment will include the Windermere High School cheerleaders, who will showcase their competition routine for the crowd. “We would love to see community involvement,” Lartigue said. “We don’t know what to expect, but we would love to be blown away with the turnout.” Another way to support the pantry is to register to sponsor a cast member in need on a monthly basis. Information will be available at the festival.

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The park is scheduled to open in early 2024 as part of an expansion to Horizon West facilities. CHRIS MARTUCCI SPORTS EDITOR

Members of the Horizon West community jumped online for a virtual meeting hosted by the office of Orange County District 1 Commissioner Nicole Wilson and Orange County Parks and Recreation to give their input on what should go into the proposed Bentonshire Park in Horizon West. Wilson was not on the call; Orange County Parks and Recreation Division Manager Matt Suedmeyer was on hand to lead the meeting, along with the landscaping architect for the Bentonshire Park project, Grant Wenrick. Bentonshire Park is part of a three-park expansion into Horizon West, along with Silverleaf Lake Park and Cawood Park, all of which will open within the next five years. Bentonshire is scheduled to open first in 2024, while Silverleaf Lake and Cawood are scheduled to open in 2025 and 2026, respectively. Bentonshire is expected to be a neighborhood park, which will span between two and 19 acres of land (five acres typically). It will be located in Lakeside Village at the junction of Bentonshire Avenue and Overstreet Road. Suedmeyer and Wenrick took questions from members of the community on what they can expect the park to look like. Residents also were allowed to give their input on what amenities the park would have. Suedmeyer noted there are some things that will not be put into consideration. “Things like splash pads and recreation centers are not being considered due to the large amount of space they take up and the maintenance they require,” Suedmeyer said during the presentation. Some of the aspects he noted would be considered include playground equipment, picnic pavilions, an open field for kite-flying or playing ball, and a flexible space for miscellaneous activities such as yoga. Community members have until Dec. 17 to give their input on what they would like to see go into the park, which they can do in an online survey. Once residents have given thoughts on what they want to see go into the park, there will be a second meeting Feb. 9, 2022, to finalize details. There will be a third meeting if needed, but Suedmeyer said he doesn’t anticipate a need. The park is estimated to cost about $1 million to create, which Suedmeyer said already has been allocated. During public comment, members of the community raised concerns about the lack of available parking on sight for those who wish to drive over to the park. Some even raised the idea of lowering the speed limit on the road near the park. Some ideas for amenities in the park that were suggested were beach volleyball courts and tennis courts. The master planning of the park is scheduled to last through the first part of 2022 before transitioning into the designing phase, which is to take up most of the year. The park is scheduled for an early 2024 opening date. Wilson did not return repeated attempts seeking comment before press time Tuesday.

NEWS BRIEFS

Discussion begins on Bentonshire Park plan

OBSERVER

AdventHealth suspends vaccine requirements AdventHealth on Thursday, Dec. 2, announced plans to suspend the COVID-19 vaccine mandate for employees. AdventHealth officials previously sent a letter to employees stating they had until Monday, Dec. 6, to get their first shot of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines, or a single shot of the Johnson and Johnson vaccine, and until Jan. 4 to receive the second dose of the twoshot vaccines. The suspension of the employee vaccine requirements comes shortly after Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signed a bill to prevent private employers from enforcing vaccine mandates, among other legislation. Although recent court decisions resulted in the health care organization’s reconsideration of a vaccine mandate, AdventHealth officials said they still strongly encourage team members to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. “Based on scientific evidence and what we see in our hospitals every day, COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective at reducing both the risk of becoming infected and the level of harm in the case of a breakthrough infection,” AdventHealth officials said in a statement. “As part of our commitment to protecting the health and wellbeing of our team members, patients and communities, we strongly encourage all of our team members to receive the COVID-19 vaccine.”

Ocoee remembers Pearl Harbor The city of Ocoee hosted a solemn ceremony Tuesday, Dec. 7, to honor the 80th anniversary of the Pearl Harbor attacks. The event, held at 5:30 p.m. at

Ocoee City Hall, was presented by the American Legion Post 109 and VFW Post 4305. It included appearances by Mayor Rusty Johnson, Commissioner Nicole Wilson and many local veterans.

D’Uva celebrates 20 years with chamber

A special member of the West Orange Chamber of Commerce is celebrating a big anniversary this year. Stine D’Uva, president and CEO at the WOCC, is celebrating 20 years of service in the West Orange community. The WOCC team, Board of Directors and trustees took to social media to thank D’Uva for her dedication. “We want to thank Stina for all the hard and tireless work, effort and love you have bestowed on the organization,” the team said. “Your leadership, strength and grace make the WOCC an award-winning chamber that brings a positive contribution to the #WestOrange business community.” D’Uva commented back with her returned appreciation for her WOCC family. “Thank you so much for all the kind words and support that have enabled me to reach this milestone,” D’Uva said. “Serving the chamber has and will continue to be an honor that I will

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021

never take for granted. Here’s to the future!” Several team members continued the celebration by taking D’Uva out to breakfast last week at the Eggs Up Grill.

Second Harvest selects new CEO The Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida has a new president and CEO. Effective Jan. 1, 2022, Derrick Chubbs will succeed Dave Krepcho, who will retire after leading the nonprofit since 2004. “Derrick is an accomplished business leader who is driven by a passion to help others, making him the ideal leader for Second Harvest,” said Jeff Lutes, Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida Board chairman. “With thousands of families working to regain stable financial footing amid the pandemic, our work to feed hope has never been more important than it is right now. Derrick will further Dave’s legacy while positioning Second Harvest for the future.” Chubbs will join the Central Florida team after five years of service as the president and CEO of the Central Texas Food Bank in Austin. The CTFB is the largest hunger relief agency in Central Texas and provides more than 64 million pounds of food and grocery items to more than 300,000 residents across 21 counties. Prior to joining the Food Bank Network, Chubbs served with the American Red Cross, where he held both regional and national executive roles. He began his professional career in the for-profit technology sector, holding senior leadership positions with companies such as IBM, Pervasive Software and Dell, before following his passion for community service.

BENTONSHIRE PARK SURVEY

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If you want to give your thoughts on what should go into Bentonshire Park, you have until Dec. 17 to fill out an online survey, surveymonkey.com/r/ BentonshirePark.

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OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021

Walking in a Winter (Garden) Wonderland B

ells were jingling and bands were rocking while City Hall became the centerpiece of the season during Light Up Winter Garden Friday, Dec. 3. Businesses set up pop-up shops as residents celebrated with hymns and candle light, then projection shows and snowball fights. The City Hall light show continues 6 to 9 p.m. Dec. 10-12, 17-19 and 23. — JIM CARCHIDI

A forest of Christmas trees lines Winter Garden City Hall.

Charlie the Saint Bernard was dressed up and stepping out with owner Brett Schulman.

Abby Zabik and Elena King visited Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Right: Amanda Wilmot and Norm Wright, with Quinn and Vaughn Wright

Melissa Daly and Colleen Burns make their way down Plant Street for Light Up Winter Garden.

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OrangeObserver.com

OBSERVER

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021

Right down Santa Claus Lane

The parade began with the Winter Garden Police Department Honor Guard.

foggy morning gave way to a merry and bright celebration as the Winter Garden Christmas Parade made its return Saturday, Dec. 4. Residents lined the parade route along Dillard and Plant streets, many with blankets to ward off the chilly temperatures. Local organizations, businesses, schools and community leaders marched, rode, waved and threw candy along the crowded downtown streets and rang in the holidays with a local vibe. — JIM CARCHIDI Right: Members of the Ocoee High School Marching Knights played gift-wrapped sousaphones.

Merky Morales, Raquel Alvarez and Chung Diamond decorated the tree on the Masonic Lodge float.

Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings

Claire, Emma and Olivia Dyal; Beth Cardwell; and Sydnie Dyal

Santa and Mrs. Claus waved to the crowd and completed the festivities.

Young Star Musical Theatre students showcased their singing and dancing talents at this year’s parade. Right: The Knights of Columbus float featured a manger scene complete with the Three Wise Men.

HOPE F O R

T H E

Holiday

Amaryllis Festival

H O L I D AY S

Fun, Free Family Event

Historic Nehrling Gardens www.NehrlingGardens.org

Saturday, Dec. 11th 9am-3pm 2267 Hempel Avenue, Gotha Bring a food item or toy for charity and receive a ticket in our raffle This holiday season, give the gift of meals and hope. Your investment of $10 provides up to 40 meals for families, seniors and kids in our community experiencing hunger.

Amaryllis flowers and bulbs Nature themed vendors Owls & Birds of Prey Eco-Activities for kids Food, live music

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OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021

Oakland ushers in the holiday season

Donovan Crawford, 8, shared his wish list with Santa Claus.

Santa Claus makes early stop in Ocoee F

Santa Claus and his elf brigade: John and Pam Schmidt, left, and Mike and Maryann O’Donnell.

akland was a popular place to be Saturday, Dec. 4, when the town held its Santa’s Lane Christmas event in the Town Square. Santa Claus made his entrance in a horse-drawn carriage and took a seat in front of the giant Christmas tree to listen to each child’s wish list. Santa’s elves were there to help hand out goody bags. Other activities included performances by local students, pony rides, food carts, a chance to write a letter to Santa and the opportunity to vote for the best-decorated Christmas tree in the Healthy West Orange Arts and Heritage Center at the Town of Oakland.

amilies in Ocoee were treated to an Evening with Santa Friday, Dec. 3, at the Ocoee Lakeshore Center. There was much excitement in the air as children munched on pizza and snacks; wrote letters to Santa Claus; watched a magician, Kevin King, as he wowed the crowd; enjoyed activities; and had the chance to sit on Santa’s lap and share their Christmas list. The free event was hosted by the city of Ocoee.

Children were able to create a wish list in their letters to Santa Claus.

— AMY QUESINBERRY

Four-week-old Parker LeMaster is content in Santa’s arms.

Scarlett Thackurdeen, 3, decorated her letter to Santa with many colors.

Right: Several ponies, including Nutterbutter, ridden by Alex Alvarado, 5, were brought to the event.

Right: Magician Kevin King kept the crowd entertained at Ocoee’s Meet Santa event.

General Family Dentistry

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OBSERVER

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021

Signature Lakes estate sells for $2,299,000 A

home in the Signature

ORCHARD HILLS

The home at 14359 Magnolia Ridge Loop, Winter Garden, sold Nov. 29, for $775,000. Built in 2015, it has five bedrooms, threeand-one-half baths and 3,881 square feet. Days on market: Six.

Lakes community in Ho-

rizon West topped all West Orange-area residential real-estate transactions from

The home at 4896 Palmetto Park Drive, Winter Garden, sold Nov. 29, for $630,000. Built in 2016, it has five bedrooms, four baths and 2,809 square feet. Days on market: 49.

Nov. 26 to Dec. 3. The home at 14628 Avenue of the Rushes, Winter

PANTHER VIEW

Garden, sold Nov. 30, for

The home at 14747 Winter Stay Drive, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 3, for $585,000. Built in 2019, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,662 square feet. Days on market: 10.

$2,299,000. Built in 2018, it has five bedrooms, five-andone-half baths and 5,675 square feet of living area. These are the highestselling homes in each community in West Orange. DR. PHILLIPS

BAY VISTA ESTATES

The home at 8520 Sand Lake Shores Drive, Orlando, sold Nov. 30, for $644,580. Built in 1988, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,355 square feet. Days on market: Two. BRISTOL PARK

The home at 9358 Wickham Way, Orlando, sold Nov. 30, for $580,000. Built in 1993, it has four bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 2,774 square feet. Days on market: 78. CYPRESS POINT

The home at 8737 White Ibis Court, Orlando, sold Nov. 29, for $1,649,000. Built in 1997, it has six bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths and 5,977 square feet. Days on market: 25.

coldwellbankerhomes.com

The home at 14628 Avenue of the Rushes, Winter Garden, sold Nov. 30, for $2,299,000. This custom home on Lake Hancock includes 40 acres of lake ownership.

EMERSON POINTE

The home at 9221 Bayway Drive, Orlando, sold Dec. 3, for $1.6 million. Built in 2007, it has six bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths and 5,322 square feet. Days on market: 22. NORTH BAY

The home at 5717 Bay Side Drive, Orlando, sold Dec. 1, for $600,000. Built in 1987, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,185 square feet. Days on market: 16. ORANGE TREE COUNTRY CLUB

The home at 7315 Everleigh Court, Orlando, sold Dec. 1, for $505,000. Built in 1987, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,892 square feet. Days on market: Four. PHILLIPS COVE CONDOMINIUMS

The home at 7027 Phillips Cove Court, No. 22, Orlando, sold Nov. 30, for $775,000. Built in 2017, it has three bedrooms, three-andone-half baths and 2,502 square feet. Days on market: 37.

SNAPSHOT Total Sales: 124 High Sale Price: $2,299,000 Low Sale Price: $174,000 RUBY LAKE

The home at 10770 Lemon Lake Blvd., Orlando, sold Nov. 30, for $875,000. Built in 2018, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 3,018 square feet. Days on market: Two. VIZCAYA

The home at 8126 Firenze Blvd., Orlando, sold Nov. 30, for $1,875,000. Built in 2002, it has five bedrooms, six-and-one-half baths and 6,004 square feet. Days on market: Seven. WATERS EDGE BOCA POINTE AT TURTLE CREEK

The home at 10730 Emerald Chase Drive, Orlando, sold Nov. 30, for $1.1 million. Built in 2002, it has five bedrooms, four baths, two half-baths and 4,908 square feet. Days on market: 13.

HORIZON WEST ASHLIN PARK

The home at 7229 Backwoods Trail, Windermere, sold Dec. 3, for $540,000. Built in 2017, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,214 square feet. Days on market: Eight. ENCLAVE AT HAMLIN

The home at 15391 Arcadia Bluff Loop, Winter Garden, sold Nov. 29, for $630,946. Built in 2021, it has four bedrooms, three-andone-half baths and 2,908 square feet. Days on market: 47. LAKESHORE PRESERVE

The home at 15687 Panther Lake Drive, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 3, for $1,710,000. Built in 2020, it has four bedrooms, four-andone-half baths and 4,276 square feet. Days on market: 31. MABEL BRIDGE

The home at 11843 Verrazano Drive, Orlando, sold Dec. 3, for $500,000. Built in 2012, it has four bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 3,099 square feet. Days on market: One.

ROYAL CYPRESS PRESERVE

The home at 10583 Royal Cypress Way, Orlando, sold Nov. 30, for $1.15 million. Built in 2019, it has five bedrooms, four-and-onehalf baths and 4,294 square feet. Days on market: 114. ROYAL LEGACY ESTATES

The home at 11836 Aldendale St., Orlando, sold Nov. 30, for $990,000. Built in 2017, it has six bedrooms, six baths and 4,630 square feet. Days on market: Four. STILLWATER CROSSINGS

The home at 4239 Blue Major Drive, Windermere, sold Dec. 1, for $750,000. Built in 2014, it has four bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 3,494 square feet. Days on market: Two. VALLEY VIEW

The home at 9508 Quiet Lane, Winter Garden, sold Nov. 30, for $750,000. Built in 2001, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,655 square feet. Days on market: 88. WATERLEIGH

The home at 8899 Sonoma Coast Drive, Winter Garden, sold Nov. SEE REAL ESTATE PAGE 10

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REAL ESTATE

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021

REAL ESTATE

OBSERVER

30, for $620,000. Built in 2021, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,113 square feet. The home at 8875 Sonoma Coast Drive, Winter Garden, sold Nov. 30, for $616,000. Built in 2021, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,113 square feet. WATERMARK

The home at 14675 Seton Creek Blvd., Winter Garden, sold Nov. 30, for $955,000. Built in 2016, it has five bedrooms, four baths and 3,812 square feet. Days on market: 68.

OAKLAND

First Baptist Church Pastor Tim Grosshans 125 E. Plant St, Winter Garden (407) 656-2352 Sundays: 8:30 AM Traditional 9:45 AM Bible Study 11 AM Contemporary Wednesdays: 6 PM Awana 2nd Campus: First Baptist Church @ Horizon West 15304 Tilden Road, Winter Garden Sundays: 9:45 AM All Ages www.FBCWG.org Starke Lake Baptist Church Pastor Jeff Pritchard PO Box 520 611 W Ave., Ocoee (407) 656-2351 www.StarkeLakeBaptist.org Victory Baptist Church & Christian Academy 1601 A.D. Mims Rd, Ocoee FL 34761 (407) 656-3097 www.VBCOCOEE.com Sunday: 11AM & 6 PM Wednesday: 7 PM

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

The home at 2862 Dawn Redwood Place, Ocoee, sold Nov. 30, for $495,435. Built in 2021, it has five bedrooms, three baths and 3,291 square feet.

Church of the Messiah 241 N. Main St., Winter Garden Services: 8, 9:30, & 11 AM., 7 PM www.ChurchoftheMessiah.com

The home at 1661 American Beech Parkway, Ocoee, sold Nov. 30, for $476,900. Built in 2020, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,656 square feet.

METHODIST

First United Methodist Church 125 N. Lakeview Ave., Winter Garden (407) 656-1135 Services: 9 AM Contemporary 11:15 AM Traditional Viewable on YouTube

The home at 1732 Sourwood Drive, Ocoee, sold Nov. 29, for $426,570. Built in 2021, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,061 square feet. HAMMOCKS

NON-DENOMINATIONAL Purpose Church Orlando 13640 W Colonial Dr. Ste 110, Winter Garden (407) 654-9661 Sunday Service: 10:05 AM Sunday Brazilian Service: 7 PM Saturday Service: 6 PM www.purposechurchorlando.org

The home at 1107 Wineberry Court, Ocoee, sold Dec. 1, for $420,000. Built in 1994, it has four bedrooms, twoand-one-half baths and 2,708 square feet. Days on market: 21. REMINGTON OAKS

The home at 2259 Grand Poplar St., Ocoee, sold Dec. 1, for $419,999. Built in 2001, it has five bedrooms, three baths and 2,820 square feet. Days on market: 38. SPRING LAKE RESERVE

The home at 1117 Eagle Run Way, Ocoee, sold Nov. 29, for $403,000. Built in 2016, it has four bedrooms, twoand-one-half baths and 2,356 square feet. Days on market: Four. WATERSIDE

125 N. Lakeview Ave. Winter Garden (407) 656-1135

FOOD PANTRY

2nd & 4th Tuesday of the month 1-3pm in Education Bldg

CARING TABLE

4th Monday of the month at Elks Lodge from 5-7pm

The home at 2112 New Victor Road, Ocoee, sold Nov. 30, for $465,000. Built in 1995, it has four bedrooms, two-andone-half baths and 2,330 square feet. Days on market: 39. WESTYN BAY

The home at 2449 Orsota Circle, Ocoee, sold Nov. 29, for $610,000. Built in 2005, it has four bedrooms, four baths and 3,634 square feet. Days on market: Four.

FAMILY 1st Wednesday of the month from 6-8pm MOVIE Family Movie in Fellowship Hall NIGHT Kids Movie - Education Bldg refreshments available for purchase sponsored by the united methodist men

The home at 2686 Migliara Lane, Ocoee, sold Dec. 2, for $440,000. Built in 2005, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,513 square feet. Days on market: 21.

For those ready to take advantage of our Moving Forward Program, the following is a partial list of assistance available through our Program.

The home at 637 Palio Court, Ocoee, sold Nov. 30, for $425,000. Built in 2006, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,375 square feet. Days on market: 24.

Transitional Housing Mental Healthcare Counseling Montessori Preschool & Daycare Educational Opportunities Resume Building & Employment Opportunities Legal Assistance Credit Counseling & Debt Reduction

The home at 13526 Zori Lane, Windermere, sold Nov. 30, for $665,000. Built in 2004, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 3,129 square feet. Days on market: Four.

WINDERMERE

BELLA VITA ESTATES

The home at 11267 Rapallo Lane, Windermere, sold Nov. 29, for $510,000. Built in 2002, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,172 square feet. Days on market: Eight. CRESCENT LAKE ESTATES

The home at 1350 Crescent Lake Drive, Windermere, sold Dec. 1, for $1.88 million. Built in 1985, it has five bedrooms, five baths and 4,695 square feet. Days on market: 18. DAVIS SHORES

The home at 63 Main St., Windermere, sold Dec. 3, for $749,000. Built in 2014, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 2,186 square feet. ESTANCIA AT WINDERMERE

The home at 1134 Estancia Woods Loop, Windermere, sold Nov. 30, for $1.7 million. Built in 2018, it has five bedrooms, six-and-one-half baths and 5,603 square feet. Days on market: Five. ESTATES AT WINDERMERE

The home at 2522 Ridgewind Way, Windermere, sold Nov. 30, for $925,000. Built in 1996, it has five bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths and 4,236 square feet. Days on market: Two. KEENE’S POINTE

The home at 6731 Valhalla Way, Windermere, sold Nov. 30, for $1.8 million. Built in 2006, it has six bedrooms, seven-and-one-half baths and 6,435 square fee of living area t. Days on market: 279. The home at 6119 Foxfield Court, Windermere, sold Nov. 30, for $864,500. Built in 2001, it has three bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 3,244 square feet of living area. Days on market: 51. WATERFORD POINTE

The home at 13111 Luntz Point Lane, Windermere, sold Nov. 29, for $1.75 million. Built in 2006, it has five bedrooms, six-and-one-half baths and 6,275 square feet of living area. Days on market: One. WESTOVER RESERVE

The home at 9137 Royal Gate Drive, Windermere, sold Dec. 3, for $810,000. Built in 2000, it has five bedrooms, four baths and 3,367 square feet. Days on market: Seven.

WINTER GARDEN BAY ISLE

The home at 14051 Hampshire Bay Circle, Winter Garden, sold Nov. 29, for $665,000. Built in 2004, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 3,538 square feet. Days on market: Four.

351592-1

Moving Forward Program Offerings

PROVIDENCE

BELMERE VILLAGE

ARDEN PARK NORTH

EPISCOPAL

The home at 5855 Oxford Moor Blvd., Windermere, sold Nov. 30, for $1.12 million. Built in 2003, it has five bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths and 4,500 square feet. Days on market: Three.

OCOEE

The home at 956 Keaton Parkway, Ocoee, sold Nov. 30, for $450,000. Built in 1995, it has five bedrooms, threeand-one-half baths and 3,598 square feet. Days on market: Six.

CHURCH OF GOD

OXFORD MOOR

The home at 2018 Bellamere Court, Windermere, sold Nov. 29, for $1,919,900. Built in 2021, it has five bedrooms, five-and-one-half baths and 4,688 square feet. Days on market: 86.

ADMIRAL POINTE

BAPTIST

WEST ORANGE

The home at 1775 White Feather Loop, Oakland, sold Dec. 3, for $415,000. Built in 2017, it has three bedrooms, twoand-one-half baths and 1,838 square feet. Days on market: 11.

OAKLAND TRAILS

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The home at 8126 Firenze Blvd., Orlando, sold Nov. 30, for $1,875,000. It was the largest transaction in Dr. Phillips from Nov. 26 to Dec. 2.

The home at 537 Setting Sun Drive, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 3, for $445,000. Built in 2005, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 1,933 square feet. Days on market: Two. CARRIAGE POINTE

The home at 2174 Bay Clover Drive, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 1, for $580,000. Built in 2012, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 2,886 square feet. Days on market: Three. The home at 1905 Jean Marie Drive, Winter Garden, sold Nov. 29, for $374,609. Built in 2009, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,642 square feet. Days on market: Seven. COVINGTON PARK

The home at 632 Meadow Glade Drive, Winter Garden, sold Nov. 30, for $449,000. Built in 2011, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,043 square feet. Days on market: Three. CYPRESS RESERVE

The home at 14043 Jomatt Loop, Winter Garden, sold Nov. 30, for $572,500. Built in 2019, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 2,713 square feet of living area. Days on market: Four. FULLERS CROSSING

The home at 1020 Woodson Hammock Circle, Winter Garden, sold Nov. 30, for $390,000. Built in 2001, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,487 square feet. G.T. SMITH SUBDIVISION

The home at 310 S. Boyd St., Winter Garden, sold Nov. 1992, for $345,000. Built in 1992, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 1,995 square feet of living area. Days on market: 17. GLYNWOOD

The home at 337 Duff Drive, Winter Garden, sold Nov. 30, for $715,000. Built in 2005, it has five bedrooms, four baths and 3,836 square feet. Days on market: Two. ISLAND POINTE

The home at 975 Sadie Lane, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 3, for $448,500. Built in 2002, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,732 square feet. Days on market: Four. MCALLISTER LANDING

The home at 1504 Juniper Hammock St., Winter Garden, sold Dec. 1, for $601,000. Built in 2019, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 3,027 square feet. Days on market: 17.

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The home at 1674 Victoria Way, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 2, for $500,000. Built in 1992, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,239 square feet of living area. Days on market: Five.

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The home at 16779 Broadwater Ave., Winter Garden, sold Nov. 30, for $1,097,333. It has seven bedrooms, fiveand-one-half baths and 6,289 square feet. The home at 1379 Williams Road, Winter Garden, sold Nov. 29, for $421,860. Built in 2021, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,023 square feet. Days on market: 16.

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The home at 1368 Viscaya Cove Blvd., Winter Garden, sold Nov. 30, for $458,395. Built in 2021, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,522 square feet. Days on market: 33. WATERSIDE AT JOHNS LAKE

The home at 17095 Harbor Oak Parkway, Winter Garden, sold Nov. 30, for $413,000. Built in 2017, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,692 square feet. Days on market: Eight. WINTER OAKS

The home at 707 Chase Oaks Court, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 2, for $520,000. Built in 2003, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,560 square feet of living area. Days on market: Three.

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The home at 684 Large Oak Lane, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 2, for $2,058,950. To be built in 2022, it has five bedrooms, five-and-one-half baths and 4,834 square feet. The home at 1002 Lake Brim Drive, Winter Garden, sold Nov. 30, for $820,000. Built in 2017, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,402 square feet. Days on market: 14.

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OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021

SUMMERLAKE RAISES $11K FOR NONPROFIT Summerlake Elementary School recently raised more than $11,000 for the Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida through its virtual food drive. Second Harvest is a private, nonprofit organization that collects, stores and distributes donated food to more than 550 feeding partners in six Central Florida counties. Summerlake Elementary School PTO Vice President Veronica Solarz said the virtual food drive began last year when COVID-19 restrictions were in place. “We didn’t want a food collection falling on the teachers and staff that were already going above and beyond the call of duty during the first few months of school — especially being a brand-new school last year,” Solarz said. “So I started looking for different options and found that Second Harvest offered a virtual option, and I loved it.” Solarz said even with so many of the students being virtual last year, the event was a hit. This year, the food drive ran for six days. The original goal of $2,500 was met in less than one day. The school quickly expanded its efforts, setting a new goal of $10,000, which was still surpassed. The school helped to provide more than 43,508 meals for those in need. Solarz said she had the opportunity to speak with the students during lunch about the drive. She let them know why they were taking part in the drive, how $1 provided 4 meals and why it’s important to be a good neighbor to those in need.

INFLUENCER OF THE WEEK

MICHELLE LUCAS-LAWHORNE, WHISPERING OAK ELEMENTARY Michelle Lucas-Lawhorne is a Voluntary Pre-K teacher at Whispering Oak Elementary School. Her day is divided into a morning and an afternoon program, with two separate groups of children ages 4 and 5. She teaches her students school-readiness skills, such as letters, sounds and numbers; as well as classroom routines and responsibilities that help them transition successfully to kindergarten and elementary school in general.

What brought you to your school? When Whispering Oak Elementary was first built, I lived within the community and thought it would be a great opportunity to work with children in my community. It was also a bonus that it was so close to home and I could attend many after school functions. What do you love most about your school? I love the strong sense of community that has always been here. The students, the families and my colleagues here have always been great and promoted a positive atmosphere. What is your motivation? My motivation has always been to help students reach their full potential and to enjoy learning. To not only learn the ABC’s and 123’s but to also learn to be good communicators, be helpful to those around them and to spread kindness. What is the most rewarding part of your job? Watching the students grow and flourish. It is so rewarding to see where students start out and how much they grow in a single school year. What do you like to do in your spare time? I like to play and snuggle with my two dogs, watch Hallmark Christmas movies, take naps and spend time with my husband and family.

HORIZON HIGH TO DEBUT PLAY The Horizon High School Theatre Department will showcase its original adaptation of “A Christmas Carol” this week. The show will take place Thursday, Dec. 9; Friday, Dec. 10; and Saturday, Dec. 11. Reserved seating is required for the production. Tickets start at $10. Tickets can be purchased at teachtix.com/horizonhs/a-christmas-carol.

Who was your favorite teacher when you were in school? Why?

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If you could only listen to three bands or artists for the rest of your life, what would they be and why? Journey, Garth Brooks and Taylor Swift. I have always loved Journey’s music — especially the song “Don’t Stop Believing.” I have seen Garth Brooks three times in concert, and I love country music, in general, but

What is your favorite holiday and why? Christmas! I love the music, decorations, the meaning of Christmas — and hanging out with my family has always been important to me. It’s a special time of the year for me. Who was your best friend when you were in school and why? Are you still in touch? My best friend was my sister Jennifer. We always encouraged and uplifted (one another). — AMY QUESINBERRY

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

but also character.

PLANT ST. CAMPUS

What are your hobbies? I would say a hobby of mine is creating new games for my students to learn important concepts in a creative way. I also love spending time with my family.

If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why? Time travel, so that I could go back and spend time with family and friends who are no longer with me. What was your go-to lunch as an elementary student? PBJ! Extra-crunchy Jif peanut butter and strawberry jam. To this day, I love PBJ sandwiches, and if I do not feel like making them, my husband will make them for me.

NOMINATE YOUR INFLUENCER

Character Matters. An education should not only develop intellect,

125 E. Plant St. Winter Garden, FL 34787 Grades Pre-K - 6

When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up? Since I was a little girl, I always wanted to be a teacher. When I was younger, I had a lot of great teachers who were there for me, supported me, mentored me and inspired me to want to do the same thing one day when I was older. Teaching is truly a calling. What is your favorite children’s book and why? My favorite children’s book is “The Gingerbread Girl,” because she is strong and determined.

his songs are so fun and energetic and great to sing along to. I love Taylor Swift ever since she showed up to the scene. Her songs are fun. I believe she is very down to earth, as well as a good person.

REPORT CARD

E s TD. 1958

PREVIEW EVENTS

It is very difficult for me to pick just one. I had amazing teachers throughout my schooling. I attended many OCPS schools growing up. The one that I think made a such a difference in my life was my fourth-grade teacher, Mr. Police. His classroom was amazing. He not only taught us what we needed to know for school, but (also) he taught us life skills, (such as) being organized.

OrangeObserver.com

OBSERVER

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021

OBSERVER SCHOOL ZONE

West Orange High senior makes history with FFA win Payton Moore placed fourth in the National FFA Organization’s 2021 Veterinary Science Career Development Event finals. JIM CARCHIDI ASSOCIATE EDITOR

West Orange High School senior Payton Moore is having a great year. She is vice president of the National Honor Society, plays violin in the school orchestra and is a member of the National Beta Club. She even owns her own show lamb named Hazel. But her involvement in the school’s FFA program earned her a place in history when she placed fourth in the National FFA Organization’s 2021 Veterinary Science Career Development Event finals. “The last state competition we won was in 1995,” West Orange High agriscience teacher Kristy Lightbody said of the Warrior FFA team victory in last spring’s Florida FFA State Championship. Moore, along with teammates Cate Solomon, Joslyn Hui and Caden Lourdel, earned first place for their knowledge of veterinary science and disciplines. But something even bigger was in

Photos by Jim Carchidi

The award Payton Moore won in the National FFA Organization’s 2021 Veterinary Science Career Development Event finals.

store as the Warriors earned the right to qualify for the national championship, held during the National FFA Convention in October. “We had to take a written exam that was based on five textbooks they provided,” Moore said of the state-level requirements. “There was a test on (medical) applications which was, basically, calculating dosages for different medications. … There was identification of (more than) 90 different veterinary tools. … We had to identify parasites and their life cycles. … And then there was (animal) breed identification.” If the competition sounds daunting, imagine having to prepare on your own. “We study general animal science, but not everything that an actual veterinarian would do,” Lightbody said of West Orange’s agriscience curriculum. Earning the range of experience necessary for state and national competitions is a trial and a labor of love. Moore and her teammates studied everything from identifying different breeds of livestock to properly calculating medication dosages. Moore even received a book on parasites as a Christmas gift from her grandparents. “We taught each other,” she said of the team’s effort to prepare. “We had to go to different schools to find different textbooks; we made flashcards; I watched YouTube videos of people doing the procedures, and then I did them on my own.” Despite their effort, the Warriors did not place high enough to move on to the national competition in Indianapolis. But West Orange still would be represented.

Payton Moore, pictured with her natural wool ewe Hazel, waits tables to pay for her feed and other needs.

“Our team didn’t advance but (the judges) announced four individuals (from the team competition) who placed high enough to move on,” said Lightbody. Moore’s individual score was high enough for her to be included in that group. She was one of 127 individual competitors expected to demonstrate clinical procedures and proper animal handling and restraint. This also required several more hours of self-teaching and improvising, such as practicing horse haltering with a stuffed toy. “I hadn’t ever seen a horse haltered before,” Moore said. “I had only seen it done in a video. So it was just the fear of the unknown, but then being able to overcome it.” She didn’t have her usual teammates for support, but her father, Gregory, and Lightbody were with

her in Indianapolis. And they felt the pressure as much as she did — especially when the top-10 finalists were announced. “They’re like, ‘We’re going to call all the names, and if you don’t hear your name, you’re in the top 10,’” Lightbody said. “My heart rate got up to 172.” Moore’s name eventually would be heard during the awards presentation, when the 10 winners were announced in descending order. “It’s amazing, honestly, because it finally puts our school on the board … and now the nation notices,” Lightbody said. “It’s not just winning the award. It’s more about putting our name out there and saying, ‘You know what? We can do this, too.’” According to FFA rules, once a team wins a state championship,

that team and its individual members no longer can compete. But that won’t stop Moore from preparing her peers to follow in her footsteps. “Payton can come in for this year’s team and help coach them,” Lightbody said. “It will be a completely new team that has either competed in the past and not won, or that has never competed before.” Moore plans to show Hazel at the Florida State Fair. She is considering applying to the University of Florida and majoring in biomedical engineering. Despite her place in history, she remains grounded. The honors she earned came with a simple lesson. “The day before the competition, my dad and I just scooted around Indianapolis on scooters,” she said. “I realized that … I studied, I prepared, but I’ve got to enjoy it.”

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W EST O RANG E HISTO RY

OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021

THESE OLD TIMES

FROM THE WINTER GARDEN HERITAGE FOUNDATION THROWBACK THURSDAY DEC. 9, 1971 If you were looking for something special to give a loved one for Christmas 1971, J. Philip Jewelers was one store that had a little bit of everything. During its Christmas sale, the shop offered everything from jewelry, tape decks and tape recorders to cake plates, radios and lighters. Promise rings were available for $14, portable tape recorders could be had for $29.95, cut glass giftware such as covered dishes and relish dishes were on sale for 69 cents each, loose diamonds were $299, and an eight-track stereo tape deck could be yours for $69.95. The shop, located on East Cypress Street in the West Orange Shopping Center, advertised its holiday deals in The Winter Garden Times.

85 years ago

Ned Vick, who was attending Boles Military Academy in Jacksonville, was home for the Christmas holidays.

75 years ago

Winter Garden was experiencing a building boom. Construction had started on the new Ed Fisher and Bill Hartzog business block located on Plant Street between the hardware store and the Winter Garden Theater. Work on the Roy Fulmer business block on Story Road was progressing rapidly. Roy Rouse and Leroy Hoequist, who were planning to erect a building at Main and Miller for a self-serving laundry, were to build a proposed building at a new location. The new furniture factory, operated by Wayne Rachel and Perry White on Story Road, began turning out beautiful furniture in nature cedar.

70 years ago

Troop 204 Boy Scouts who attended an Orlando Court of Honor were Herbert Schley, Larry Mask, Ernest Crawford, Louise Kenneday, Jimmy Breadwell, Jody Gufford, Jimmy Crawford, Buddy Arflin, Charles Seagraves and Phillip Fiedler. Sen. J.B. Rogers, Rotary Club program chairman, introduced as guest speaker A.D. Davis, president of the Winn-Lovett Grocery Company. Dr. John Scanlon had the misfortune of breaking his arm while on a hunting trip.

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.

30 years ago

The Ocoee City Commission approved an 18-hole public golf course and a 50-year lease agreement for a 240-acre tract of land off Ocoee-Clarcona Road.

20 years ago

Elizabeth “Lib” Youngblood was chosen by the congregation as Disciple of the Year at the First United Methodist Church of Winter Gar-

den. She received a cross necklace and was recognized at a reception. Her main focus has always been with the United Methodist Women, where she served as vice president, president and secretary of missionary education. Past Disciples of the Year were Vivian Johns, Dot Gracey, Frankie Woosley, Lowell Teal, Billy Davis, George Van Demark, Ruth Hawk, Ellen Roper, Mary Tanner, Gay Annis, Gloria Quesinberry,

Tammy Starling, Vikki Chitwood, Virginia and Franklin Cappleman, Nancy Sines, Anna Fulford and Jim Campbell. Ward Britt was named president of the Winter Garden Heritage Foundation, the umbrella organization for the Winter Garden Heritage Museum and the new History Center.

celebrity cipher

IN THE MIDDLE OF by Gary Larson. Edited by Amanda Rafkin quinceanera, e.g. 57 “Piece of cake!” 58 Dart 60 Partiality 61 Thrift store caveat 64 Novelist Jesmyn 65 Toothbrush brand 66 McDonald’s fixtures DOWN 67 Sound from a leaky 1 Denver winter hours faucet (Abbr.) 68 Follower of an Afrocen2 Post-E.R. place, maybe tric religion 3 Respectful title 69 Employee with a Civic 4 Gives temporarily duty, perhaps? 5 Pot growers? 70 Line spoken to the 6 Legendary person audience 7 “Certainly,” for short 71 “Farewell, you pesky 8 Rats with red eyes little insect!”? 9 Deodorant type 75 Evil spirits 10 Furniture giant 76 Philly’s NFL team 11 Big commotion about a 78 “If I Only Had a Heart” ‘70s dance fad? singer 12 Last letter in Canada? 79 Digging plants with 13 Picked from a lineup, fronds? briefly 80 Altoids and others 14 Culturally forbidden 81 Famous ___ cookies 15 “This is a tough call” 82 Yellow flag tosser 16 Barrier around a 83 Places to park barbecue area? 85 Event with lightning, 17 Moisturizer ingredient often 18 Seats for kitties, 86 Share with, like a story sometimes 89 “I’ve finally got it!” 24 Phone notifications 90 Puts another way 29 Hilary of “Fatale” 92 Blue cartoon char31 Fanatical enthusiast acters 32 Paged 94 Trivial 33 Builds on 97 Took without asking 34 Shoestrings 100 Large-scale 36 Psychedelic drug 101 Choose to join 38 Some TomboyX gar102 Home with multiple ments layers? 39 Like Old Mother Hub- 103 Part of a train track bard’s cupboard 104 Ragout or maafe, e.g. 41 Video game inspired by 106 Stink to high heaven pentomino puzzles 107 Guitar accessory 43 Jazz pianist Art 110 Japanese honorific 44 Take in 112 Kin, for short 46 Santa’s reindeer, e.g. 113 Siri runs on it 47 Rival 114 Catan resource 49 Cause to stir 115 Petty criticism 52 Small change? 53 “Solve for x” subject 55 Seijin no Hi or 119 Based on theoretical deduction 120 Paper towel layer 121 Stitched together 122 The ___ the limit 123 When a night light goes out?

ACROSS

35 Bird often depicted 1 Placed in the wrong spot with Athena 37 Creme-filled cookie 8 Bone-dry 38 Comfy spot to eat 12 Pasta that’s often breakfast baked 39 Tycoon 16 Chum 40 Observe Ramadan 19 Word before “fair” or 42 1990s commerce pact “museum” 45 Overhaul an almanac? 20 Thor’s brother 48 Beneath 21 Dutch cheese 50 Pencil filler 22 Arroz ___ cubana 51 Test results that might 23 Look for guidance in earn college credits the works of Aesop? 25 What an IOU signifies 52 “The ___ of Amontillado” 26 Blouse or cami, e.g. 54 Blue Jays’ home 27 Lion’s home 56 Small sofas 28 Purple flowers 57 Seals’ rhyming prey 30 Special things 58 Dessert that often has 32 Big Mouth Billy ___ melon 34 TV host Jay 59 Buck’s mate

60 Sudden loud sound 61 Top-tier celebs 62 First-aid pro 63 Rough-and-ready nun? 69 Sucky appliance, for short? 72 Large collection 73 Person in a queue, maybe 74 Mature 77 Smokers’ receptacles 79 Pigmented eye part 80 High-ranking officer 84 Sit unused 85 ___, Crackle and Pop 86 “Let’s get a move on!” 87 Biblical garden 88 Benjamin of “Law & Order” 90 Seismology concern around a Nevada gam-

bling city? 91 Glossary items 93 “Get outta here!” 94 Bombards 95 Guitar maker Paul 96 Pet food brand 98 “I want my bone now!” 99 Punching tools 100 Poet and filmmaker Thylias 102 Bakery hybrids 105 Red wine grape 107 Toothpaste tube top 108 Dunderhead 109 Becomes putrid 111 Fashion group into vintage clothing? 116 OPEC’s concern 117 Bug biting a dog 118 Velma from “ScoobyDoo,” e.g.

By Luis Campos Celebrity Cipher cryptograms are created from quotations by famous people, past and present. Each letter in the cipher stands for another.

“X NPFS OXNVMKTSS! X’O DPXRD WP ZS XR OXNVMKTSS 20 ASMEI! X’NN ZS CSES IP NPRD, WCSA’NN ZS IXYT PG OS!”

– DXMRRXI MRWSWPTPKROHP

“CTP CYLKD NI DGI WTAYLCI KTD DT CVBI AU EGLD V DGVKM VH YVCGD IBIK DGTACG V DGVKM VD VH GTUIXIHH.” – LPNVYLX WGIHDIY E. KVNVDS “K PACYF OJXEF KE JWG OJSGGJ XEF OKEU XEF UGJ GEACUW JA LXT JWG NKYYO. K FAE’J EGGF DKYYKAEO AH FAYYXSO.”

– OKEGXF A’PAEEAS

Puzzle Three Clue: T equals Y

crossword

Puzzle Two Clue H equals K

Cast members of West Orange High School’s production of “Terror on the Hill” are Rick Charron, Melissa Messeguer, Chris Arnett, Mike Jones, Tracey Veler, Kathryn Garrison, Mark Parker, Susan Harper, Michelle Tuck, Dominic Boebel, Kevin Broughton and Suzie Massa. Grand-prize winner in the Ocoee Christmas Parade was the Ocoee Junior High Student Council float.

The Ocoee Fire Department’s firetruck fire truck cruises past the intersection of Franklin Street and the Ocoee-Apopka Road in this photograph taken at a 1960s Christmas parade. Winter Garden photographer B.P. Hannon took the picture. Christmas parades are beloved traditions in West Orange County, and they continue to attract thousands of holiday revelers.

Puzzle One Clue V equals W

40 years ago

FROM THE ARCHIVES

sudoku Complete the grid so that every row, column and 3x3 box contains every digit from 1 to 9 inclusively.

12-9-21

DECEMBER 9, 2021

HIGH

SPORTS

Kaia Pritchett scored a hat trick for the Horizon Hawks in a recent game agains Umatilla. Page 16.

Southwest Aquatics competed at the Rosen Aquatic Invite during the weekend of Dec. 4 and had good results across the board. David Mendez broke multiple team records in several events for the 11-12 age group. He and teammate Kaden Kiefer finished third and second for points, respectively. Kiefer broke the 11-12 record in the 200-yard individual medley and the 500-yard freestyle. Daniela Macias qualified for the Futures meet in the 100-yard butterfly, making the cut with a time of 57.15.

Photos by Chris Martucci

Ocoee senior Jasmyne Wright beamed with pride as she was honored for reaching 1,000 career points during the Kinghts’ game against West Orange.

Dr. Phillips basketball took on Miami’s Riviera Prep Dec. 3 and came away with a narrow 72-67 victory in a game between two of the top teams in Florida. The Panthers led by as many as 23 points, until Riviera Prep came back in the fourth quarter to get within three. DP was able to hold on at the end with clutch free throws by Jackson Slater and Denzel Aberdeen. Riley Kugel was the leading scorer for Dr. Phillips with 23.

Foundation Academy’s Donovan Branch on Sunday, Dec. 5, confirmed his commitment to play for the University of Connecticut next year via Twitter. Branch is one of three Division I commits on Foundation’s defensive line, along with teammates Reggie Jean, who also committed to UConn, and Bryan Thomas Jr., who committed to the University of South Carolina. All three are expected to sign their letters of intent in a ceremony at Foundation Academy on Dec. 15.

Horizon’s basketball teams notched their first wins in school history. The girls team defeated The First Academy Dec. 1 64-20. Sophomore guard Molly Smith led the way with 14 points. The boys defeated Davenport 67-46 Dec. 2. Freshman Korvante Hatter notched a doubledouble with 18 points and 18 rebounds to lead the Hawks to victory.

More than 20 players from West Orange County schools were selected to participate in the Cure Classic senior football All-Star Game. Dr. Phillips and West Orange had the most representatives with six each. Olympia had three, with quarterback CJ Brooks highlighting that group. Windermere, Foundation Academy, The First Academy, and Central Florida Christian each had one representative. The game takes place Dec. 16 at Showalter Field in Winter Park.

Buying in A change of culture is propelling Ocoee High School girls basketball’s fast start this season. CHRIS MARTUCCI SPORTS EDITOR

fter a lackluster 2020-21 season, second-year Ocoee girls basketball coach Marcus Spencer knew it was time to get back to the drawing board. With a 3-17 record in his first year as head coach, Spencer knew things had to change heading into the 2021-22 season. It had been a difficult year with COVID-19 ravaging the team at various points, but a

new season presented a chance for a new beginning. That gave birth to the slogan that would be a mantra for the team. It’s even printed on plain white T-shirts — black for the players as they warm up before the games. Change the culture. “We want to be a much better, improved team,” Spencer said. “Being much better at understanding the game and playing hard for one another.” So far, that seems to be paying off; the team is off to a strong start to the 2021 season with six wins. During the Metro West Conference basketball tournament at Wekiva, ranked as the eighth seed, Ocoee took fifth in the tournament and defeated teams from Olympia, Evans, and Lake Minneola. “We implemented a new system,

“We want to be a much better, improved team. Being much better at understanding the game and playing hard for one another.” — Coach Marcus Spencer

SEE CHANGE PAGE 16

Foundation girls weightlifting UCF’s move to sets bar high for new season Big 12 could have Now in its third year, the Lions girls wrestling team has big goals for 2021-22.

Local coaches are curious how the change will affect their players in the future.

CHRIS MARTUCCI SPORTS EDITOR

Foundation Academy’s girls weightlifting team is heading into its third year and has started the season with some positive results. After a year of virtual meets and home meets in 2020-21, the team is back to a normal schedule; it competed at the Leesburg High Invitational Nov. 19. The team had two girls finish in the top 10 in their respective weight classes. Head coach Christy Thompson has seen her squad double in size since the program started in 2019. The team now has eight members and a district champion in 2020 in Rylie Winters. Senior lifter Taylor Clayton took second at the Class 1A, District 10 competition behind Winters. SEE LIONS PAGE 16

recruiting impacts CHRIS MARTUCCI SPORTS EDITOR

Courtesy photo

Foundation Academy’s girls weightlifting team started with four members but now boasts eight as it settles into its third season.

The University of Central Florida in September announced it would be moving into college football’s upper echelon by joining the Big 12 conference along with Brigham Young University, current College Football Playoff semifinalist University of Cincinnati and the University of Houston. This puts UCF in one of the “Power 5” conferences for the first time in its history. The move takes effect at the start SEE WILL PAGE 17

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021

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Kaia Pritchett Kaia Pritchett is a junior for the first Horizon Hawks varsity girls soccer team and has played a huge part in its fast start. She scored a hat trick in Horizon’s game against Umatilla, one of three she has scored in her high school career. Prior to coming to Horizon, Pritchett played two seasons at Windermere High School on its JV team. She also plays for the Florida Rush soccer club in Orlando. Upon graduating from Horizon, Pritchett wants to do something in psychology or law and help as many people as she can in either capacity.

What’s your experience at Horizon been so far? I like it a lot. I’m in the Ace program, so (I) have a lot more classes pointed toward that rather than AP. It’s been really helpful, because the teachers know what they’re doing, they’re understanding, and I like their grading policy a lot — especially with late work. It was a rough transition leaving some friends behind, but it’s been a positive experience.

THE BASICS AGE: 16 SCHOOL: Horizon GRADE: Junior SPORT: Soccer POSITION: Striker

our team is so fluid, and we work together really well. It’s achievable, so I hope we can make it there.

What are some of your favorite classes so far? I really like my psychology class. I took one last year, but the teacher this year is really good. She’s really understanding and in tune with the students. I also have a lot of friends in the class, which makes it a good experience. I find it interesting to study the mind and all the different experiments. You scored a hat trick against Umatilla recently. Describe how that felt. It was one of my better moments — I was very proud. That was the first one I had for Horizon. We worked together well as a team in that game — especially the offense and defense. They did a great job keeping things clean. The adrenaline is definitely there. What’s one thing you attribute to the fast start your team has been on this season? Our coach. He makes sure our egos don’t get too high and makes sure we work well as a team. He pushes communication, too. We get along as people and not just players — both on and off the field. We’re working together, which makes it a great experience. You’ve played for Coach Brown before. What is it that you like about playing for him? You know what he wants — he has high expectations — but he never pushes you over the edge. It makes you more willing to go forward, because you’re connected to him. The communication is there between him and us. He knows when to have fun, but he also knows when to get serious.

Favorite soccer player? Alex Morgan. She’s also a forward and, like me, she shoots with her left foot, though she’s right-footed. Favorite holiday movie? “Christmas Vacation.” It’s a family favorite; we watch it every year. Favorite TV/Netflix show? “Criminal Minds” or “Death Note.” Favorite anime? “Bungo Stray Dogs,” which led me to one of my favorite hobbies: collecting classic literature. Favorite book? “Percy Jackson and the Olympians: The Lightning Thief,” because it introduces you to all the characters. What are some of your other hobbies? Listening to music and finding new artists, and drawing, as well. Favorite music and favorite artist? Alternative rock music, and I like Led Zeppelin. What’s an interesting thing about you that no one would expect to know? I have a ball python named Ramen that’s 2 years old. My mom and I made a deal that if I scored three goals in a game, she would let me have one. I then did that, and we got him. He’s really cool. If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you want to go? Europe, in general. I’d like to visit France and see the Eiffel Tower and all that stuff.

What is the ultimate goal for you this season? I hope we keep winning this season and that we make it to states. I think we have a good shot, because Athlete of the Week sponsored by:

Jasmyne Wright pulled up for a shot against West Orange. She scored 1,000 career points during the game.

— CHRIS MARTUCCI

Change in culture CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15

and it takes time, but now the (players) are starting to see some success,” Spencer said. “We’re into it, they’re excited. … We haven’t been 5-1 in a while. In the Metro West tournament, we beat three teams that beat us last year and kind of blew the doors off us. That was one of those wow moments for us.” The team’s strong performance out the gate has attracted attention from around the school community. “I have former coaches and even Coach Sheppard (the football coach) calling me and saying, ‘You guys are rocking; what are you doing?’” Spencer said. Players such as senior guard Christa Sistrunk have been through a lot the last couple of years. Sistrunk was formerly looked at as a player with a bit of attitude not just on the court but also with former coaches too. However, this year, she said she has broken away from that mindset. “I want to be the best player that I can be — and not having an attitude,” Sistrunk said, the leading scorer for Ocoee so far this season. “So far, things have been good with the team. We’re a well-oiled machine so far.” Prior to the game against West Orange Dec. 2, senior guard Jasmyne Wright needed only two points to reach a career total of 1,000 points, which would make her the second Ocoee player to reach that milestone. Wright spent her first three years with Orlando Christian Prep before transferring to Ocoee. With any player, but especially a senior, adjusting to playing a whole

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15

Thompson said she’s seeing much more growth in her athletes this season. “Our message and the spirit of what weightlifting is and can be has permeated to the students and other athletes,” Thompson said. “We make a point to encourage the girls to be supportive of each other. The environment they have created … has carried out to other girls.” As the strength and conditioning coach at Foundation, Thompson seemed like a natural fit for the team when it launched in 2019. But weightlifting is a winter sport and coincided with the basketball season, for which Thompson served as head coach at the time. “I had to make a choice,” Thompson said. “It made sense as being the strength and conditioning coach to be there for these girls and to start

this new program the right way. I got it off going in the right direction, so it was important at the time to do that.” Since then, she has not looked back. Adjusting to the new sport gave her a different perspective on what can constitute success besides the usual wins and losses. “It’s different from any other sport in that you can technically lose the meet by points, but you can still come out with so many different victories,” Thompson said. “There is breaking personal records and people placing in their weight class. There is always something positive to take away from every opportunity. We have little successes, but I don’t put pressure on them.” Thompson said she enjoyed seeing the way her young athletes grow in self-confidence and how that affects other parts of their lives. “Seeing them progress in that

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they are timid at first when they come in — not sure if they are going to do well — but then seeing them progress week to week and get stronger … you see their confidence grow,” Thompson said. “As a female myself, they need that confidence for life. Weightlifting is something that brings that out of them.” She also hopes her team’s success can help change others’ perceptions of female weightlifters. “Fitness for life,” Thompson said. “We need exercisers for life — people to be healthy and fit. I want to break the cycle of, ‘If I get the gym, I’ll get big and bulky.’ I want to break that myth. Whether they win titles or not, I want (the athletes) to be comfortable in their own skin. I want them to walk into an LA Fitness or the YMCA and feel comfortable and confident in going in to life some weights.”

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and would be something I can tell people later.” Ocoee ended up losing the game to West Orange 44-30, but that did not dampen the team’s spirits. It’s just another step toward the ultimate goal for the team at the end of the year. “We have a good possibility of making it to regionals,” Wright said. But first up is the district tournament. Ocoee plays in the highly competitive Class 7A, District 4, and Spencer said capturing the district crown would turn more than a few heads. “It would blow the roof right off,” Spencer said. As the Knights prepare to face Oak Ridge Dec. 9, they will be using all they have learned to continue this run toward the district playoffs and maybe — just maybe — the state tournament.

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new system and with new teammates is hard — especially for one year. However, Wright, has accepted the challenge with a positive attitude, and it seems to be rubbing off on her teammates. “I’ve been meshing with the group; they’re super welcoming to me from the get-go,” Wright said. “It’s a good group of girls.” Compared to previous coaches, she finds herself working harder under Spencer, but it’s a welcome change. “I was captain last year on my team, and the coach would let me do whatever I wanted,” she said. “He would just stay on the sideline, but with Coach Spencer, he’s a bit more hands-on with us, I would say. Like, we’d do one play, but then he’d yell out to do another play.” During the game with the Warriors, Wright had several opportunities to grab those two points but could not get her shots to fall early on. Every time she took a shot, the anticipation would rise until the ball stayed out of the hoop. For a while, it seemed like it wasn’t needed; both teams were playing a tight first half. Then came her first of two foul shots in the second quarter. With a calm, cool composure, Wright nailed both foul shots to give the Knights the edge. Spencer stopped the game for a few moments to honor Wright for her achievement. The crowd gave her a standing ovation, which left Wright visibly emotional. “It’s great; I didn’t think I would get it,” Wright said. “It’s a huge milestone, an accomplishment that not many can have, especially girls,

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JOYCE DAVIS BORNACK DIED NOV. 20, 2021.

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her. She was a one-of-a-kind friend, mother, sister and grandma. Joyce is survived by her loving daughter, Veronica Marquina (Carlos); stepchildren, Dawn Penuel, Bart Bornack and Herb Bornack Jr.; grandson, Steven Joseph Dykes; and step-grandchildren, Kimberly Penuel and Ryan Bornack. Please join us in celebration of her Life from 4 to 8 p.m. Dec. 21, 2021, at Dubsdread, 549 W. Par St., Orlando, Florida 32804, in its “Florida Room.” In lieu of flowers, Joyce’s family invites you to make a donation in her name to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Condolences may be offered at deltonamemorialfuneralhome. com.

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Our hearts break as we announce the passing of Joyce Davis Bornack, age 76, on Nov. 20, 2021. She was surrounded by loving family as she gently went to heaven. Joyce was born Sept. 2, 1945, in Cypress Inn, Tennessee, to the late William and Mamie (Thrasher) Copeland. She was one of 11 children. She bravely joined the U.S. Air Force to serve her country; and soon met her late husband, Joseph Ronald Davis. They enjoyed music and dancing together and completed their family with their daughter, Veronica. Joyce made a career for herself with Bell South Telephone Company as a Customer Service Representative. She was fortunate to love twice in her life and found her dear late husband, Herbert Bornack. They enjoyed traveling together both here and abroad; and loved to be on the water, boating with friends and family. Joyce loved life and those around her. There will never be another Joyce. Thank you to all of you that loved

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of the 2025 season, during which Oklahoma and Texas officially will begin play in the Southeastern Conference. And the change could have an impact on West Orange and Southwest Orange. Rather than going to Tallahassee, Gainesville, Miami or anywhere else in the country, could the change convince the area’s top talent to stay in Central Florida? Central Florida Christian Academy head coach Jeremy Campbell believes it will. “It opens up more opportunities for the kids here in the area,” he said. “They have not always tapped into Orlando, but Coach (Gus) Malzahn is trying to do that. We have a lot of great talent here, so I hope it encourages some of these guys to stay home and play for UCF.” Some CFCA players such as current eighth-grader Noah Maddox would be seniors the year before the Knights move to the Big 12. The opportunity to start in the Big 12 right off the bat could appeal to players in his situation. Windermere head coach Eric Olson agreed the move elevates UCF into the conversation for area athletes, but it still has a long way to go in being one of the first to emerge. “Kids are still talking Florida State

and Florida, but this does add UCF into the conversation,” Olson said. “They usually have a shot at the national title and have a good fanbase here, as well, but now, they’re up against some good competition year in and year out.” Legacy High School coach Trent Hopper offered a different take. As a self-described massive college football fan, he said he prefers conferences to be more regional. Before Nebraska left in 2011 for the Big 10, the Big 12 comprised primarily schools in the Midwest from the aforementioned Cornhuskers down to Texas. Now, it features teams such as West Virginia, which are farther east than the primary target region. “You don’t have that workday bickering in the office or the atmosphere it used to have,” Hopper said. “The SEC works, because it’s just the Southeast teams, but now, you add Missouri and eventually Oklahoma and Texas, none of which (is) located in that area.” Hopper also said he doesn’t see things changing much in recruiting. UCF hasn’t placed much emphasis on recruiting in Orlando and especially West Orange County, he said. “When you look at their roster, the bulk of their guys come from Oviedo or Hagerty, primarily,” Hopper said. “I don’t know why they don’t look to Orlando and West Orange County,

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but I don’t see that changing, unfortunately.” Since beginning Division I-A play in 1996, UCF has been an independent, part of the Mid-America Conference and Conference USA. They have been with the American Athletic Conference since 2013. The Knights lay claim to the 2017 national championship after defeating Auburn in the Peach Bowl, alhough they were not invited to the College Football Playoff that season despite their 12-0 record going into the bowl game. UCF finished the 2021 regular season with an 8-4 record — the best among Florida schools — and will play Florida in the Gasparilla Bowl Dec. 23 in Tampa.

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James “Wayne” Anderson, 77, of Winter Garden, Florida, passed away peacefully on Thursday, Dec. 2, 2021, at Health Central Park Nursing Home in Winter Garden. Wayne was born Dec. 28, 1943, in Orlando, Florida. He is the son of the late JZ and Ouida Anderson. Wayne was the loving husband of Jacqueline “Jackie” Renfroe Anderson for 58 years. Besides his loving wife, Jackie, he is survived by two children, Suzanne “Suzy” Anderson and Kenneth “Kenny” Anderson; one grandson, David Wood; and two sisters, Debbie Edmondson and Sandra Moses. Winter Oak Funeral Home & Cremation.

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Throughout the past three months, school photos were submitted in the Show Us Your Strength Photo Contest.

Now is your turn in picking a winner. Which one is your favorite? Head over to OrangeObserver.com to vote.The voting period ends at 11:59 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 16. The winning school will receive $2,500 from Healthy West Orange.

WIN $2,500

FOR YOUR SCHOOL! The winning

VOTE NOW UNTIL DEC. 16

subm be announced ission will Thursday, Jan. 6, 2022!

www.OrangeObserver.com/2021-Show-Us-Your-Strength

Vote now, vote often!

369341-1

Presenting Sponsor:

362650-1

Brought To You By:

Prices vary from in-store. Fees, tips & taxes may apply. Subject to terms & availability.

Reimagining the future of orthopedic care, to help you make the most of the present. Orthopedic Expertise in Winter Garden During this special time of year, don’t let joint pain keep you from experiencing the wonders of the season with those you love. AdventHealth and Rothman Orthopaedics are here to help you start the new year with your best foot forward by concentrating their expertise on joint care and sports medicine and leading the field in orthopedic innovation. Next-Day Appointments Available Rothman Orthopaedics

21-ORTHO-12805

366025-1

15502 Stoneybrook W Parkway, Suite 114

To request an appointment, call 844-869-8555 or visit TransformingOrtho.com.

. . . t i a But W

S ’ E R E H T ! E R MO

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Flip the page for more sales and specials!

Tis the

season 2021 h o l i d ay h a p p e n i n g s in downtown winter garden ❆ ❆ ❆ ❆ ❆ ❆ ❆ ❆ ❆ ❆ ❆ ❆ ❆ ❆

november 27 ★ ★

december 3

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december 4 ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

december 5

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december 9

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december 10 ★ ★ ★

december 11 ★ ★ ★

december 12

★ ★

december 17 ★ ★ ★

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december 19 ★ ★

december 22

★

december 23 ★ ★

december 24

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december 26

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december 27

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december 28

★

december 29

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december 30

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event details and reservation links at www.cwgdn.com and www.downtownwg.com