12.24.20 Southwest Orange Observer by Orange Observer

SO U T H W EST O RA N G E

Observer Windermere, Horizon West, Dr. Phillips

YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD. VOLUME 6, NO. 13

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020

Tradition, re-imagined MERRY CHRISTMAS! Central Florida Ballet brought ‘The Nutcracker’ to West Orange Park. SEE 3.

The Observer wishes you a safe and happy holiday.

MERRY & BRIGHT Courtesy

They’ll be home for Christmas Sgt. Landon Beck, his wife and their six children will be moving into their new house in Winter Garden by Christmas. AMY QUESINBERRY COMMUNITY EDITOR

We scoured the community to find some of the best holiday lights displays in the area. PHOTOS ON PAGE 7.

Landon and Jessica Beck and their six children are spending Christmas in their new house thanks to the Home At Last organization. The Winter Garden home — with five bedrooms and four

Michael Eng

This home on Roxboro Road in Enclave at Berkshire Park features a dancing Santa on the front porch and a inflatable sleigh soaring over the driveway.

SPORTS

Ocoee, W.G. police make holidays merry for local kids FAREWELL,

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Foundation’s coach steps down. SEE 15.

The Ocoee Police Department and Winter Garden Police Athletic League worked hard to ensure local children in need have a happy holiday season. PAGE 4.

WE’RE HAPPY TONIGHT Snow in Florida?! Attendees of the Winter Garden Christmas Golf Cart Parade experienced the magic of the holiday season Sunday, Dec. 13. SEE PAGE 6.

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020

Holiday at home CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

bathrooms to accommodate the large family — is a far cry from the single-wide mobile home they were living in near Crescent City. The 3,784-square-foot home features Jack-and-Jill bathrooms, a large kitchen with a big family nook, a covered lanai, fenced yard and three-car garage. “We customized it to the size of the family,” said John Russo, senior estimator with Winter Park Construction, which has built all of West Orange County’s Home at Last houses. “We have a big, open floor plan.” Russo, who also serves on the HAL board of directors, said many surprises awaited the family last week during the official reveal at their home on South Main Street. This included full furnishings and a fully wired smart house. The non-

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profit Home at Last provides a mortgage-free home to severely wounded combat veterans who have fought in the military campaigns of Iraq and Afghanistan. Beck is a retired sergeant with the United States Marine Corps. In 2010, Beck was serving as a turret gunner on a mounted patrol in Afghanistan when his vehicle was ambushed and struck by a roadside bomb. He sustained multiple injuries. After returning to duty, he was deployed at an observation post and was further injured when it received heavy mortar and sniper fire. Beck retired from the Marines in 2012 with two Purple Hearts and has since been diagnosed with Traumatic Brain Injury and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, and he has chronic back and leg pain. He was unable to continue his education and find employment. This is the ninth home built by Home at Last and the first to be constructed in Winter Garden; the first eight are in Oakland. Hensel Phelps is the other

PAST RECIPIENTS n 2008 — U. S. Army Sgt. Joshua Cope was wounded in Iraq and lost both legs above the knee in a roadside IED explosion. n 2009 — U.S. Army SPC Marcus Griffin was seriously injured in a house-to-house search in the village of Buquaba in Iraq. n 2011 — U.S. Army Sgt. Major Patrick Corcoran suffered multiple serious injuries from an IED explosion in Afghanistan. A debilitating injury paralyzed him from the waist down. n 2012 — Staff Sgt. Jeffery Kelly sustained serious leg injuries in an enemy attack while traveling in a convoy in Iraq.

contractor on the projects, along with a long list of suppliers and vendors. The home was built for the Becks and their children, Serenity, 12; Cristian, 10; Cristopher, 6; Paisley-Ann, 5; Maximus, 4; and Stormi, 2. The family received a sneak peek recently, and Jessica Beck said the kids were ecstatic. “Paisley … was mostly excited that they will have their very own door — their own room,” she said. “Our oldest was excited to have a closet and bathroom of

n 2013 — U.S. Marine Cpl. Ronald “C.J.” Barnes Jr. stepped on a land mine during patrol and sustained severe injuries, including the loss of both legs. n 2014 — Retired U.S. Marine Sgt. Stephen Tovet was wounded from an IED blast while on patrol in Afghanistan, requiring amputation of his left leg, left hand and lower right leg. n 2017 — Retired U.S. Marine Sgt. Seann Windfield was conducting a building clearing in Baghdad when he fell through a roof, suffering a spinal disc herniation and nerve damage. n 2017 — Retired U.S. Army Capt. Elmer Rivera was wounded in a mortar attack in Iraq.

her own. The boys are all excited about having a driveway to ride their bikes on and the back yard. Landon couldn’t stop smiling at my reactions with all the rooms and, of course, my dream kitchen. “My favorite part as a wife and mother — I will be able to cook the way I would like,” Jessica said. “I have so much more room to spread out and experiment with cooking. We also have all working appliances, which definitely helps. Landon has a garage now, so when he has his PTSD epi-

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sodes, he will be able to step into his garage to find something to do to distract him. “Landon’s garage is the most important thing to me,” she said. “If I can get him to come back to me after an episode, that is the best thing ever. Landon appreciates our double shower-head shower; the hot water really helps his back, so he will get two angles of relief for his pain.” In the past, holidays meant a 40-minute car ride, which put a strain on Landon Beck’s back. The Becks will be spending their first Christmas in their new home, and Jessica Beck said she is “forever grateful to (Home At Last) for making sure it happened for our family.” The Becks are excited to have a driveway to ride their bicycles on and a fenced backyard in which to play. “This house means the world, our world,” Jessica Beck said. “We strongly feel that we have been placed here for a purpose and we are here to fulfill it. Home at Last outdid themselves with our home in the littlest specs, even though they knew nothing about our family, and that just means so much.”

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OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020

In “The Nutcracker,” the lead role is a young girl named Marie, also known in some versions as Clara.

Tanner Benton and Olivia Spade put on a beautiful performance.

‘Nutcracker’

in our neighborhood N

othing rings in the holidays quite like a performance of “The Nutcracker,” and this year, Central Florida Ballet tried something new. The organization hosted an outdoor, socially distanced show called “Nutcracker in Your Neighborhood” at West Orange Park on Saturday, Dec. 12. Guests were seated in their own circles to enjoy the hourlong performance, which included choreographed holiday-themed pieces and a truncated version of “The Nutcracker.”

One performance, called “Tea Time,” was described as a sarcastic take on high society.

— DANIELLE HENDRIX Dancers did a beautiful job performing in a truncated version of “The Nutcracker.” Left: Ansley Hynes was a beautiful Sugar Plum Fairy.

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OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020

... And hearts will be glowing DANIELLE HENDRIX ASSOCIATE EDITOR

“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

he holidays are about to get a little brighter for some children in Ocoee and Winter Garden. Each year, the Winter Garden Police Athletic League’s Holiday Gifts for Kids program provides Christmas gifts to children in need through both in-kind and financial donations. Similarly, the Ocoee Police Department hosts both a Holiday Toys for Kids in Need program and a Shop with a Cop event. In Winter Garden, Police Capt. Scott Allen — also the vice president of Winter Garden PAL — said the organization fundraises throughout the year to be able to host its holiday program. Each year, Winter Garden PAL helps more than 100 families and 500 children. “We go through (applications), and we select the families we believe need it the most,” Allen said. “Once we select them, we start bagging the gifts provided by the community and everything. We let the families give us an idea of what their kids would like for Christmas, and … once we’re done bagging the gifts that have been given to us, we go through the list and identify the things we need to purchase, and then we team up with different stores.” This year, Winter Garden PAL teamed up with Walmart in Hamlin to complete its big shopping trip Dec. 15. Allen said the store ensures it has the toys needed in stock, and the team sets up two registers for the officers to check out at. In any given year, Allen said, Winter Garden PAL will spend between $10,000 and $20,000 to buy gifts for the families in need. Some also receive Publix vouchers they can use to purchase food for their Christmas meal. Allen said the officers will fill a large, 14-foot enclosed trailer — sometimes two or more — with all the toys and bicycles purchased on this shopping trip. The pandemic has imposed some constraints on the Holiday Gifts for Kids program, Allen said. Typically, Winter Garden PAL provides about 100 bicycles to children in need. Because bicycles have been in such high demand this year, the organization couldn’t find enough to provide. Then there are the events hosted throughout the year, such as 5Ks and parades, that serve as fundraisers for the program. “In years past (with) the Christ-

Observer “Road to Serfdom,” 1944 President and CEO / Matt Walsh, mwalsh@yourobserver.com Editor and Publisher / Michael Eng, meng@OrangeObserver.com Design Editor / Jessica Eng, jeng@OrangeObserver.com Community Editor / Amy Quesinberry, amyq@OrangeObserver.com Sports Editor /Troy Herring, therring@OrangeObserver.com Associate Editor / Danielle Hendrix, dhendrix@OrangeObserver.com Multimedia Advertising Executives / Ann Carpenter, acarpenter@OrangeObserver.com Iggy Collazo, iggy@OrangeObserver.com Cyndi Gustafson, advertising@OrangeObserver.com Creative Services / Lindsay Cannizzaro, lcannizzaro@OrangeObserver.com

Courtesy Ocoee Police Department

This year, Ocoee police officers were joined by some Windermere police officers for the Ocoee department’s annual Shop with a Cop event.

Courtesy Winter Garden Police Athletic League

Representatives from the Winter Garden Police Athletic League, volunteers and Walmart employees teamed up during the organization’s shopping trip.

mas parade, part of being in the Christmas parade was to bring an unwrapped toy,” Allen said. “We would have our trailer set up there, and the people who came out to the Christmas parade would fill our trailer with toys. We weren’t able to do that this year because the parade was canceled. … There have been a lot of things making this year different. (With) how many toys we’ve got this year, I know it’ll be a lot more purchase-wise than we’ve had to do in the past because we don’t have these events that we usually get these toys from.” The Ocoee Police Department also has law-enforcement officers who do some serious shopping at Walmart; however, they bring children along with them to pick out their own toys. On Dec. 12, officers from the Ocoee Police Department — and

some from the Windermere Police Department — headed to the Walmart in Ocoee to help make the holidays brighter for 42 local children through Shop with a Cop. The children were selected randomly from those registered for the police department’s Holiday Toys for Kids in Need program. “Shop with a Cop is a great opportunity for the City of Ocoee Police Department and a community business partner to reach out and positively impact young children during the holiday season,” said Ocoee Police Lt. Jack Davidson. “The Ocoee Walmart donated over $4,000 to the event.” Shop with a Cop is another way to engage with the community and make a difference in the lives of some of Ocoee’s youngest citizens. “Events such as these are wonderful ways to positively influ-

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ence young children,” Davidson said. “Shop with a Cop is truly a wonderful event, and the Ocoee Police Department wishes to thank the officers who volunteer their time and our business partner, Walmart.” In addition to Shop with a Cop, as of press time, the Ocoee Police Department has been able to help more than 400 children and counting through its toy-drive initiative. Both organizations said the pandemic has increased the need across the community this year, but local businesses, citizens and community partners continue to step up to help fill in the gap. “We love how our community participates in our Holiday Toys for Kids in Need Program,” the Ocoee Police Department wrote on its Facebook page. “From donating toys during Operation Santa, donations during Shop with a Cop, business donations and individual family donations, you are why our toy program is so successful. Your generosity means so much more this year as the need is greater.” Allen said although Winter Garden PAL cannot help everyone in need, the organization does its best to do what it can to make a difference during the holidays. “We’re just trying to do our best to try and identify those families that need the assistance the most,” he said. “The most rewarding part … is when the kids come and they see they’re getting gifts that they normally wouldn’t get and seeing the smiles on their faces.”

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OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020

Oakland approves next phase of Oakland Park Certificates of occupancy were issued to Oakland Park’s first residents to live in the Oakland town limits.

IN OTHER NEWS n The commission authorized Town Manager Steve Koontz to enter an agreement with Nidy Sports Construction Company for the construction of a replacement tennis court and a new pickleball court as part of the improvements at Speer Park. Both courts will have asphalt surfaces. The project is being paid for with Recreation Impact Fees and not the General Fund or ad valorem taxes, Koontz said.

AMY QUESINBERRY COMMUNITY EDITOR

The Oakland Town Commission has given approval of phase 6B-1 in the Oakland Park subdivision, the second phase of home construction to take place in the town limits of Oakland. In this phase, 44 homes are planned. Phase 6A was approved last year, and several residents are receiving their certificate of occupancy before the end of the year. Phase 6B-1 continues west from phase 6A along the drainage area adjacent to Lake Apopka. It does not yet extend south to the West Orange Trail. The entire phase 6 will have 270 homes. The next two phases, 6B-2 and 6B-3, will be built south of 6B-1. Debra Dremann, general manager of Landeavor LLC, spoke before the commission at the Dec. 8 meeting about the next steps. Landeavor is moving forward with the grading of two ponds to the south and then moving west into phase 7. “We hope … all of the lots should be approved by the end of the year and work begins next year,” Dremann said. Town Manager Steve Koontz said an eagle’s nest sits near the phase’s border and Landeavor has done well with protecting the nest. He added the developer has come up with a planting plan for an area where it removed too much brush. “They are doing what they need to be doing,” Koontz said. “We want to make sure this happens the way we said it would,” Mayor Kathy Stark said. The traffic signal recently was installed and turned on, Dremann said, in cooperation with the city of Winter Garden. Commissioners noted the town has received complaints from residents unaware the light actually is in the city limits of Winter Garden. Dremann said the developer plans to improve the appearance of the intersection in the coming weeks with landscaping approved by the city. Part of the Oakland Park agreement with the town is to develop Catherine Ross Road (formerly Motamassek Road) as another north-south connector from Oakland Avenue to West Colonial Drive. Dremann said the preliminary survey, technical work and traffic studies have begun; the plan is to start work on the road by the end of 2021 and have it completed by January 2023.

n Koontz reported 562 gifts were available for children during the Santa’s Lane drive-thru Christmas event.

n Commissioners were notified of an opening event Jan. 30, 2021, at the Healthy West Orange Arts and Heritage Center. n The commission discussed the issue of continuing the Town Commission meetings via Zoom in the new year. Commissioners are required to meet in person, but residents and guests can watch online. Koontz said the potential problem is when a big issue comes before the commission and 100 people want to speak through Zoom. The commission will revisit the issue in April.

n The commission approved the candidates for positions on several town boards: School Advisory Committee, Laura Campise, CarolAnn Dooley and Kathy Memolo; Planning and Zoning Board, Michael Knapik and alternates Blaine Dooley and Tim Watts; Appearance Review Board, Jason Simmes, Raul Loya and alternate Tamera Christensen. The town continues to seek residents to serve on the Solid Waste Board. The deadline has been extended until the end of December.

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OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020

Rolling in a winter wonderland W

Ron Mueller readjusted Gonzo the cat’s hat and beard as they waited for the parade to start.

Golf carts made their way out of Dr. Bradford Memorial Park and into the streets of Winter Garden.

Levi Paradise enjoyed some playtime before the start of the parade.

The golf carts on display were loaded down with colorful Christmas decorations.

inter Garden residents weren’t going to let the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic get in the way of one of the city’s fun holiday traditions, as locals decorated their golf carts with Christmas lights and decorations — as well as life-sized Grinches — and made it out to participate in the Winter Garden Christmas Golf Cart Parade Sunday, Dec. 13. Participants who purchased tickets — with money going to the West Orange Junior Service League — showed up in their wildly decorated carts around 4:30 p.m. at Dr. Bradford Memorial Park to line up. They headed out around 5:45 p.m. to roll around the streets of downtown Winter Garden in what was an extended parade that was longer than in previous years. Awards were also handed out to deserving recipients for categories such as Most Lights, Best Cart and Best Mask.

Left: Brothers Logan and Carter Donovan spoke with Santa about their wish lists.

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OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020

This tastefully decorated home — located at 9640 Lake Hugh Drive in the Braemar subdivision in Gotha — lights up the night. Right: It feels a lot like Christmas at this home in Ocoee — located at 600 Cardinal St.

Watt’s up, West Orange? I

t seems the West Orange community is particularly excited about the holiday season. Perhaps that enthusiasm is because of a pentup need to offer some positivity, or perhaps because we’re all ready to say “sayonara” to 2020. Whatever the reason, it seems residents are particularly excited about the Christmas season, and it shows in the outdoor decorations adorning houses throughout the community. From Winter Garden and Ocoee to Horizon West and Windermere, we scoured the area to find some of the best displays around. From all of us at the Observer, we wish you a Merry Christmas!

This house definitely could compete for most lights. It’s located just west of the Oakland town limits, in Verde Park, at 12001 Florida Hills St., Winter Garden.

— MICHAEL ENG, DANIELLE HENDRIX, TROY HERRING AND AMY QUESINBERRY

A fun light show set to synchronized music is a treat to see in Hamlin. It’s located on Shonan Gold Drive.

With gumdrops, candy necklaces and gingerbread cookies, this home on Roxboro Road in Enclave at Berkshire Park sweetens the entire neighborhood.

Children will love this Santa’s workshop at 330 N. Tubb St. in Oakland. With their beautiful light train, the residents of this home on Nobleton Drive in Lakes of Windermere are choo-choo-choosing to have a Merry Christmas this year.

ONLINE

See more photos at OrangeObserver.com

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OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020

Festive and floral BAPTIST

METHODIST

2nd Campus: First Baptist Church @Horizon West Sundays: 9:45 a.m. All Ages FBCWG.org

UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST

First Baptist Church Pastor Tim Grosshans 125 E. Plant St, Winter Garden (407) 656-2352 Sundays: 8:30 a.m. Traditional 9:45 AM Bible Study 11:00 AM Contemporary Wednesdays: 6 p.m.- Awana

Starke Lake Baptist Church Pastor Jeff Pritchard PO Box 520 611 W Ave., Ocoee (407) 656-2351 StarkeLakeBaptist.org

First United Methodist Church 125 N. Lakeview Ave., Winter Garden (407) 656-1135 Services: Livestreaming Sunday @ 9 AM. Viewable on Facebook and Youtube Angela Withers, Karen Neff, Barbara Whittier and Jody Burttram showed off some of the decorations.

Windermere Union Church 10710 Park Ridge-Gotha Rd., Windermere (407) 876-2112 Adult Worship: 9 a.m. Sunday School: 10 a.m. WindermereUnion.org

he holidays were in full bloom at Nehrling Gardens Saturday, Dec. 12, as the community enjoyed the annual Holiday Amaryllis Festival. The free, family-friendly event offered amaryllis bulbs for sale, live music, a food truck, owl and bird ambassadors, and eco-friendly activities for the children. Volunteers also collected canned food and unwrapped toys for a raffle ticket to win a family fun basket.

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Luna Branco had her eye on the raffle baskets.

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REAL ESTATE

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020

Tildens Grove estate sells for $1.2 million A

home in the Tildens

GOTHA

Grove community in

The home at 2035 Lake Fischer Cove Lane, Gotha, sold Dec. 7, for $1,063,000. Built in 2015, it has five bedrooms, fourand-one-half baths, a pool and 5,244 square feet. The price per square foot is $202.71. Days on market: 13.

Windermere topped all West Orange-area residential real-estate transactions from Dec. 4 to 10. The home at 5421 Til-

BRAEMAR

LAKE FISCHER ESTATES

$1.2 million. Built in 2005,

The home at 9024 Lake Fischer Blvd., Gotha, sold Dec. 4, for $369,500. Built in 2001, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,559 square feet. The price per square foot is $144.39. Days on market: 147.

it has six bedrooms, five-

HORIZON WEST

and-one-half baths, a

The home at 15005 Tea Tree Drive, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 10, for $503,150. Built in 2020, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 3,135 square feet. The price per square foot is $160.49. Days on market: Zero.

dens Grove Blvd., Windermere, sold Dec. 7, for

pool and 6,185 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $194.02. Days on market: 51. These are the highestselling homes in each community in West Orange.

realtor.com

The home at 5421 Tildens Grove Blvd., Windermere, sold Dec. 7, for $1.2 million. This 6,000-plus-square-foot estate features a custom movie theater.

INDEPENDENCE/ SIGNATURE LAKES

The home at 7103 Blue Indigo Crescent, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 10, for $412,500. Built in 2006, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,709 square feet. The price per square foot is $152.27. Days on market: 10.

HAMILTON GARDENS

The home at 7108 Blue Indigo Crescent sold Dec. 7, for $380,000. Built in 2006, it has three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 2,026 square feet. The price per square foot is $187.56. Days on market: Four.

The home at 5971 Painted Leaf Drive, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 9, for $375,505. Built in 2020, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,138 square feet. The price per square foot is $175.63. Days on market: Zero.

LAKES OF WINDERMERE

The home at 6705 Duncaster St., Windermere, sold Dec. 7, for $430,000. Built in 2005, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,925 square feet. The price per square foot is $147.01. Days on market: 33.

SNAPSHOT

Total Sales: 71 High Sale Price: $1.2M Low Sale Price: $218,000

The home at 12633 Haddon Drive, Windermere, sold Dec. 4, for $382,000. Built in 2003, it has four bedrooms, threeand-one-half baths and 3,000 square feet. The price per square foot is $127.33. Days on market: 139. LAKEVIEW POINTE

The home at 14278 Murcott Blossom Blvd., Winter Garden, sold Dec. 9, for $358,000. Built in 2017, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,110 square feet. The price per square foot is $169.67. Days on market: 42.

PANTHER VIEW

The home at 14872 Winter Stay Drive, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 8, for $368,000. Built in 2018, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,089 square feet. The price per square foot is $176.16. Days on market: 34. SANCTUARY AT HAMLIN

The home at 7705 Tangerine Knoll Loop, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 8, for $420,000. Built in 2018, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,240 square feet. The price per square foot is $187.50. Days on market: 109. SUMMERLAKE

The home at 8141 Tropical Kingbird St., Winter Garden, sold Dec. 7, for $419,900. Built in 2014, it has four bedrooms, SEE REAL ESTATE PAGE 10

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OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020

three baths and 2,372 square feet. The price per square foot is $177.02. Days on market: Five. SUMMERPORT

The home at 14473 Yellow Butterfly Road, Windermere, sold Dec. 8, for $425,000. Built in 2006, it has five bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 3,211 square feet. The price per square foot is $132.36. Days on market: 356. The home at 13885 Bluebird Pond Road, Windermere, sold Dec. 8, for $392,200. Built in 2004, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,786 square feet. The price per square foot is $140.78. Days on market: 136. WATERLEIGH

The home at 9182 Sonoma Coast Drive, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 9, for $509,611. Built in 2020, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 3,327 square feet. The price per square foot is $153.17. Days on market: 17. The home at 16742 Oakboro St., Winter Garden, sold Dec. 9, for $364,990. Built in 2020, it has three bedrooms, two-andone-half baths and 2,027 square feet. The price per square foot is $180.06. Days on market: 87. WATERMARK

The home at 15090 Stuttgart Alley, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 4, for $387,000. Built in 2020, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,076 square feet. The price per square foot is $186.42. Days on market: 49.

$829,500. Built in 2000, it has five bedrooms, three baths, two half-baths and 4,889 square feet. The price per square foot is $169.67. Days on market: 14.

WINDERMERE LANDINGS

The home at 11655 Black Rail St., Windermere, sold Dec. 4, for $356,000. Built in 2012, it has three bedrooms, two-andone-half baths and 2,139 square feet. The price per square foot is $166.43. Days on market: Five.

The home at 8357 Bowden Way, Windermere, sold Dec. 8, for $520,000. Built in 2001, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 2,171 square feet. The price per square foot is $239.52. Days on market: 156.

WINDERMERE TRAILS

The home at 8917 Blue Mesa Drive, Windermere, sold Dec. 7, for $508,000. Built in 2013, it has five bedrooms, four baths and 3,914 square feet. The price per square foot is $129.79. Days on market: 178.

LAKE DOWN CREST

OAKLAND

TRAILSIDE STATION

zillow.com

The home at 1130 Stationside Drive, Oakland, sold Dec. 9, for $357,000. Built in 2002, it has four bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 1,790 square feet. The price per square foot is $199.44. Days on market: Two.

The home at 2419 Orsota Circle, Ocoee, sold Dec. 7, for $450,000. It was the largest transaction in Ocoee from Dec. 4 to Dec. 10.

five bedrooms, four baths, a pool and 3,586 square feet. The price per square foot is $125.49. Days on market: Four.

four bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,755 square feet. The price per square foot is $308.53. Days on market: Three.

OCOEE

The home at 623 Westyn Bay Blvd., Ocoee, sold Dec. 4, for $380,000. Built in 2011, it has four bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 2,609 square feet. The price per square foot is $145.65. Days on market: 14.

WINDERMERE

CROWN POINT WOODS

The home at 1762 Crown Point Woods Circle, Ocoee, sold Dec. 10, for $430,000. Built in 1987, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,264 square feet. The price per square foot is $189.93. Days on market: Two.

WEST ORANGE PROVIDENCE

The home at 239 Longhirst Loop sold Dec. 4, for $333,900. Built in 1998, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths, a pool and 2,002 square feet. The price per square foot is $166.78. Days on market: 32.

The home at 6257 Little Lake Sawyer Drive, Windermere, sold Dec. 7, for $1,189,000. Built in 2007, it has four bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths, a pool and 4,333 square feet. The price per square foot is $274.41. Days on market: Four.

WESTYN BAY

WATERSTONE

FENWICK COVE

The home at 2419 Orsota Circle, Ocoee, sold Dec. 7, for $450,000. Built in 2005, it has

The home at 6228 Lecco Way, Windermere, sold Dec. 4, for $850,000. Built in 2012, it has

PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE OF MUNICIPAL ELECTION AND CANDIDATE QUALIFYING Pursuant to Florida Elections Laws, Chapter 100, Section 100.021 and Ocoee Code of Ordinances, Section 5-13, notice is hereby given by the City of Ocoee, Florida that an election will be held TUESDAY, MARCH 9, 2021, in the City of

Ocoee for the purpose of electing two (2) City Commissioners for four-year terms, one (1) Commissioner from DISTRICT TWO and one (1) Commissioner from DISTRICT FOUR. Candidates for these offices must Qualify by filing qualifying papers and fees with the City Clerk during regular office hours (8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.) beginning at noon on THURSDAY, JANUARY 14, 2021, and ending at noon, FRIDAY, JANUARY 22, 2021, at City Hall, 150 North Lakeshore Drive, Ocoee, Florida. The fee for qualifying for the office of Commissioner is $90.00.

There will be two polling locations in the City of Ocoee at the Jim Beech Recreation Center, 1820 A. D. Mims Road, and the Ocoee Lakeshore Center, 125 North Lakeshore Drive. Polling places will be open between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, March 9, 2021. Those electors who opt to cast a vote-by-mail ballot for this election must contact the Orange County Supervisor of Elections either online at https://www.ocfelections.com/vote-by-mail.com or by calling (407) 836-8683 and requesting a vote-by-mail ballot. City of Ocoee residents who currently are registered to vote in general elections are registered for this city election. However, those citizens who have recently moved into the City of Ocoee (or who have moved within the City) should check with the Orange County Supervisor of Elections to be sure their registration shows a current address.

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All eligible citizens are urged to take part in this election process. If you are 18 years old, a U.S. citizen, a resident of the City of Ocoee and of the specific District of any office being sought, have not been adjudicated mentally incapacitated with respect to voting in Florida or any other state, have not been convicted of a felony without your civil rights having been restored pursuant to law, and do not claim the right to vote in another municipality, please be aware that you have a right to be registered to vote in this election and the books will close for such registration on February 8, 2021, at 5:00 p.m. Please contact the City Clerkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Office for more information at 407-905-3105.

DOWN ACRES ESTATES

The home at 9053 Ron Den Lane, Windermere, sold Dec. 10, for $425,000. Built in 1961, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 3,162 square feet. The price per square foot is $134.41. Days on market: 524. HARBOR ISLE

The home at 3103 Seigneury Drive, Windermere, sold Dec. 11, for $1.025 million. Built in 2003, it has eight bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths, a pool and 5,950 square feet. The price per square foot is $172.27. Days on market: 462. KEENEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S POINTE

The home at 6138 S. Hampshire Court, No. 2, sold Dec. 7, for

The home at 2808 Pinnacle Court, Windermere, sold Dec. 4, for $816,000. Built in 1997, it has five bedrooms, five baths, two half-baths, a pool and 5,071 square feet. The price per square foot is $160.92. Days on market: Six. LES TERRACES

The home at 2827 Ingeborg Court, Windermere, sold Dec. 8, for $434,900. Built in 1996, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,844 square feet. The price per square foot is $235.85. Days on market: Three. MAGNOLIA PARK

The home at 13508 Magnolia Park Court, Windermere, sold Dec. 7, for $599,000. Built in 1997, it has four bedrooms, four baths, a pool and 3,634 square feet. The price per square foot is $164.83. Days on market: 167. TILDENS GROVE

The home at 13421 Bonica Way, Windermere, sold Dec. 10, for $849,000. Built in 2005, it has six bedrooms, four-and-onehalf baths, a pool and 4,869 square feet. The price per square foot is $174.37. Days on market: 221.

OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

The home at 1710 Maple Leaf Drive, Windermere, sold Dec. 7, for $589,000. Built in 1986, it has four bedrooms, two-andone-half baths, a pool and 2,627 square feet. The price per square foot is $224.21. Days on market: 14.

WINTER GARDEN BLACK LAKE PARK

The home at 646 First Cape Coral Drive, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 4, for $430,000. Built in 2006, it has four bedrooms, two-andone-half baths and 3,635 square feet. The price per square foot is $118.29. Days on market: 15. BRONSON’S LANDING

The home at 2210 Rickover Place, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 8, for $520,000. Built in 2007, it has five bedrooms, four baths and 3,766 square feet. The price per square foot is $138.08. Days on market: 24. COVINGTON PARK

The home at 747 Meadow Glade Drive, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 7, for $370,000. Built in 2010, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 1,923 square feet. The price per square foot is $192.41. Days on market: Four. MCALLISTER LANDING

The home at 736 Brooks Field Drive, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 4, for $413,536. Built in 2020, it has four bedrooms, three baths

The home at 1793 Juniper Hammock St., Winter Garden, sold Dec. 4, for $403,865. Built in 2020, it has three bedrooms, twoand-one-half baths and 2,181 square feet. The price per square foot is $185.17. Days on market: 83. STONEYBROOK WEST

The home at 1904 Black Lake Blvd., Winter Garden, sold Dec. 6, for $530,000. Built in 2004, it has five bedrooms, four baths, a pool and 3,574 square feet. The price per square foot is $148.29. Days on market: 17. The home at 1249 Selbydon Way, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 7, for $503,000. Built in 2001, it has five bedrooms, three baths and 3,492 square feet. The price per square foot is $144.04. Days on market: Four. STOREY GROVE

The home at 10061 Bedtime Story Drive, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 4, for $327,900. Built in 2016, it has three bedrooms, two-andone-half baths and 1,770 square feet. The price per square foot is $185.25. Days on market: 24. WATERSIDE

The home at 16746 Turtle Hatch Drive, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 7, for $725,000. Built in 2018, it has six bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths and 4,451 square feet. The price per square foot is $162.88. Days on market: 17. The home at 17102 Harbor Oak Parkway, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 4, for $365,000. Built in 2018, it has three bedrooms, three

baths and 2,106 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $173.31. Days on market: 78. WESTFIELD LAKES

The home at 12313 Westfield Lakes Circle, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 7, for $490,000. Built in 2003, it has five bedrooms, four baths, a pool and 2,935 square feet. The price per square foot is $166.95. Days on market: 27.

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The home at 2284 Windermere Pointe Drive, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 7, for $550,000. Built in 2002, it has five bedrooms, four baths, a pool and 3,648 square feet. The price per square foot is $150.77. Days on market: Four.

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The home at 916 East Blvd., Windermere, sold Dec. 10, for $700,000. Built in 1925, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,428 square feet on 1.42 acres. The price per square foot is $490.20. Days on market: 57.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020

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TOWN OF WINDERMERE

OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020

DAWN ORLANDO

what you have. The second one is “Oh, The Places You’ll Go” by Dr. Seuss. I tell my students how important they are and that they can do or be anything they want.

SUMMERLAKE ELEMENTARY Dawn Orlando’s teaching journey was inspired by her first-grade teacher, and it came full circle when she joined Summerlake Elementary as a first-grade teacher herself. Orlando’s passion for teaching and motivating her students to succeed is evident daily, and she enjoys watching them learn and grow.

What brought you to your school? I wanted to experience opening a school. Once I found out about Summerlake opening and that Ms. (Delaine) Bender was the principal, I knew I needed to be under her leadership. What do you love most about your school? The energy. There is so much positivity and appreciation at Summerlake, not only from the entire staff, but (also) from our wonderful parents and community. What is your motivation? I know this may sound cliché, but “my kids” motivate me every single day. I am motivated when I see the sparkle in their eyes when they finally understand something or get excited about walking in our classroom. I really try to ensure that my kids know that our classroom is a safe place to be their own individual.

REPORT CARD

ROLE: First-grade teacher TIME AT SCHOOL: Since opening in August

What is the most rewarding part of your job? The most rewarding part is not only seeing their growth academically, but seeing them be respectful, kind and independent. I have been teaching with OCPS for 10 years and am still in touch with former students. It is incredibly rewarding to hear how they are doing and the impact I made on them. What do you like to do in your spare time? I hardly shut my brain off from teaching. However, when I do, I love to read a good book (preferably at the beach), I love going on walks and being outdoors, and I also love to play pickleball. Who was your favorite teacher when you were in school? Why? This is difficult, as I had many. The one teacher that stands out the most was my first-grade teacher, Ms. Terino. She taught me and a few of my siblings. I remember her being the most loving and caring teacher. She not only made a connection with me, she made a connection with my entire family. Every year at this time, I hang up a Christmas ornament she gave me. My name has faded off and a part of it broke, but that doesn’t matter. I still hang it up and smile. When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up? Why? I always wanted to be a teacher, but my journey took me on a dif-

ferent path. I went to college and got my degree in broadcasting. I was lucky enough to work on the Sally Jessy Raphael show in New York City for 10 years. When the show ended, I knew I needed to go back to school to fulfill my dream. I will never forget an assignment I had to do in one of my first education classes I took. I was so excited to go back to my elementary school to observe three classrooms. As soon as I walked in the lobby, I saw my first-grade teacher. Ms. Terino recognized me immediately and gave me a hug. We cried, and I told her she was the reason why I want to be a first-grade teacher. What is your favorite children’s book and why? I have two. The first one is “The Giving Tree” by Shel Silverstein. When I first read this story, I thought the character was selfish. As I got older and understood the message, I fell in love with it. It is so important to remember to be happy with and appreciate

Who would you say is your biggest inspiration and why? Besides all my students, my biggest inspiration comes from one of my best friends, Kim DiMaggio. She unfortunately passed away Feb. 24 from breast cancer. Kim was an amazing educator; she was also one of my biggest cheerleaders. She had such a gift and inspired so many children. She was always nurturing, caring and funny. Whenever I feel defeated, I am reminded what a fighter she was and the difference she made in so many lives. If you could only listen to three bands or artists for the rest of your life, what would they be and why? Jack Johnson, because of the human he is. Besides being an environmentalist, he has this chill vibe about him which comes through in his music. Pat Benatar, because not only is she from Long Island, too, she is a talented female rock star! I just love her voice. Growing up, I would make sure to see her every time she was in town. I still blast her songs when I hear them on the radio. ABBA, because some days you just need to dance. — DANIELLE HENDRIX

NOMINATE YOUR INFLUENCER

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

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INFLUENCER OF THE WEEK

OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020

OBSERVER SCHOOL ZONE

Bringing St. Augustine to Windermere After having to cancel the annual fourth-grade field trip to St. Augustine, teachers at Windermere Elementary created a memorable day for their students. DANIELLE HENDRIX ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Every year, Windermere Elementary fourth-graders look forward to the class field trip to St. Augustine. This year, the trip was added to the list of things canceled by COVID-19. However, thanks to the school’s fourth-grade team, not all was lost. Nancy Bromhead, Kim Campbell, Shanta Johnson, Susie Ott and Shannon Reid put their heads together to come up with a way to give their students a special day. With some help from Curriculum Resource Teacher Betsy Shaw and the school’s Parent-Teacher Organization, they brought a taste of St. Augustine to their students.

“We just had to give them something special that they could remember and say, ‘This was our St. Augustine day.’” — Kim Campbell

Campbell said the typical field trip usually takes place the first Friday in December, and the children get to enjoy a day exploring and learning about St. Augustine and the history embedded in it. It’s one of the highlights of the year. “A lot of these (students) have siblings who have gone, so they talked about it, and they always look forward to fourth grade to be able to go to St. Augustine,” Campbell said. “Even if they don’t have siblings, they still look forward to it. It’s something that they all know about. We started planning it and coming up with ideas to help do a special day for them. It’s not the same as going — it will never be the same as going — but we wanted them to have a special day that they would remember and (that was) still about St. Augustine while they were in fourth grade.” The team got creative, and on Friday, Dec. 7, they transformed the hallway into the Castillo de San Marcos — the oldest masonry fort in the continental United States — and classrooms into the Colonial Quarter, the Oldest Wooden School House, the Flagler hotels and the Fountain of Youth. A stone-wall background

Courtesy

The fourth-grade team at Windermere Elementary — Nancy Bromhead, Kim Campbell, Shanta Johnson, Susie Ott and Shannon Reid — brought the history of St. Augustine to their students.

spanned down the hallway, along with five of the flags that flew over St. Augustine. Each classroom represented — and was decorated for — a different place in St. Augustine that the students would have visited. As the students walked in, they also were greeted by large signs reading, “Welcome to St. Augustine!” “It’s kind of like a room transformation, and the kids didn’t know — it was a big surprise to them,” Campbell said. “We just told them they had to wear their class shirts, because that’s what we would have done if we had gone to St. Augustine. We wanted it to be a surprise. They were

surprised when they walked into the hallway and saw the hallway decorated and each of the rooms decorated. They really knew they were in for a special day.” The teachers dressed in costume as Henry Flagler, a school teacher, a Spanish soldier, a blacksmith and Juan Ponce de Leon. “We made butter, which would’ve been in the Colonial Quarter, because they would’ve gone in and saw the butter churned,” Campbell said. “We tried to do a little something from each (place). Then they made the Castillo de San Marcos out of edible materials that they built

and then could eat. They made quill pens — which kind of represented the oldest school house — and they were able to write with the quill pens all day. We had some old-fashioned paper that they wrote on, so they did that with the school house, too.” Each student was given a “passport” containing all the different activities that they had to complete throughout the day. All in all, it ended up being a big hit. “It’s such a different year,” Campbell said. “We just had to give them something special that they could remember and say, ‘This was our St. Augustine day.’ And at the end of the day, we all talked about, ‘What was your favorite part of the day?’ Everybody had something different and had wonderful things to say about everything that they did. … They were the first ones we’ve done this with … and do things that other fourth-grade classes haven’t done.” The team spent a few weeks preparing for the big day and coordinating with Shaw, as well as the PTO, to gather everything they needed for the students. Campbell said the project was a complete team effort, and it ended up being a success. “The most rewarding part was seeing the excitement on the kids’ faces when they knew they were in for this special day of St. Augustine,” she said. “We told them, ‘We know it’s not going to be the same as going, but this is your special day.’ They’re the first group that’s ever been able to do this with St. Augustine.”

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OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020

THESE OLD TIMES

FROM THE WINTER GARDEN HERITAGE FOUNDATION

THROWBACK THURSDAY DEC. 20, 1946 The West Orange News used advertising space to wish its readers a Merry Christmas in 1946: “Here’s wishing that the light of the season’s cheer will glow through all you do, adding greatly to your Christmas happiness.”

85 years ago

Two Atlantic Coast Line railway box cars, loaded with vegetables, turned over at the Avalon packinghouse near the Ocoee station. Three others were derailed. Rail officials blamed a “tampered with” switch or a misunderstanding between switch points. Advertised by Cappleman’s Cash and Carry: Fancy assorted chocolates, five-pound boxes, 90 cents; self-rising flour, 24 pounds, 97 cents. The Lincoln-Zephyr was viewed by scores of motor enthusiasts at the Pounds Motor Company showroom. The medium-priced car, delivering at $1,500, had a Ford V-12 engine and came in two models, two-door and four-door. Harriet Jane Jones’ students gave a recital. Artists taking part were Jimmie Lee Dillard, Margaret Ficquette, Nydia McAdams, Margaret Cappleman, Sarah Elizabeth McMillan, Jeanette Johnson, Dottie Lu Hall, Jean Sadler, Bill Sansbury, Howard Ficquette, Christine Kitchen and Harriet Pounds.

80 years ago

Miss Betty Roper entertained the Girl Reserves in her home. The event was the Christmas party for the group of 15 girls.

70 years ago

The Lakeview High Chapter Future Farmers of America was given an abandoned orange

CROSSWORD

An early 1960s Christmas was celebrated with a party at the home of Winter Garden resident Johnie Griffin. He operated a grocery store for many years at 730 E. Plant St., presently the site of the Carpenters Local Union. In a photograph shared by Sandra Oliver are, from left: top, H.C. Stevens, Kenneth Bush, Lennie Walls, M.L. Faircloth, Irvin Riffle and Wayne Wilson; bottom, Johnie Griffin, Ruby Daniels, Tennie Bush, Ann Rhodes, Hattie Welsh and Lenora Baldwin. Kenneth and Tennie “Tina” Bush are Sandra’s parents.

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. grove by the Orange County School Board. The boys were learning about caring for an orange grove under the direction of Robert Hargraves. The fruit from the trees was expected to take care of all the expenses.

REACHING ACROSS THE AISLE by Hal Moore; Edited by David Steinberg

ACROSS 1 Like tropical weather 6 Confuse 11 Music box? 17 Dubai or Sharjah 20 Marketing connections 22 Solved, with “together” 23 Removes (oneself) 24 Dull time in Canada? 26 In medias ___ 27 Words before “long way” or “step further” 28 Blunder badly 29 Touchy-___ 30 Predicament at basic training? 34 Bowling feats

FROM THE ARCHIVES

36 Jill Biden, ___ Jacobs 37 Round that’s downed 39 Respectful address 40 Tiny bit 43 Diana who played Emma Peel 45 Hip bones 47 Yellowstone grazer 49 ___ Vision (LensCrafters competitor) 51 Off base? 53 Kind of bear in Alaska 56 Follows 57 Coffee shop order with skim milk? 59 Plumber’s service or remuneration?

The new Civilian Defense Council got off to a good start. The council planned to meet to consider means of perfecting an efficient and workable way to meet any emergency that may arise. 114 Like well-traveled paths 116 Earth is a pale blue one in a famous photo 117 Moo goo ___ pan 118 Words you use when you’re apprehensive? 121 Extremely insistent 123 Moved like a hummingbird 124 Bring under control 125 ___ Line (WWII fortification) 126 Eating utensils used in jug bands 127 Studio stand 128 Fresh-mouthed

50 years ago

Two of the original buildings at the old Windermere school site were being torn down as a part of a modernization and beautification program.

52 Ques. response 54 Unwrap 55 White Russian ingredient 58 Guide for grading student work 60 One of the Gershwin brothers 63 Pat gently 66 Where to take off your boots 67 Bruins great Bobby 69 Mani’s partner 71 Antics 72 “Take responsiblity!” 73 Its hands are near your hand DOWN 74 Oktoberfest venue 1 Considered, as a case 75 Pizzeria fixture 2 Earth tone 77 Circled-off area? 3 Evolutionary mystery 78 Droop 4 Pique 79 Din 5 Hang down 80 Exchange 6 $$$ dispenser 81 Cash register part 7 Devil, in Spanish 82 Fellow fighter 8 Drained 83 National econ. figure 9 “___ & Stitch” 10 Noted celebrity gossip show 84 Musk of SpaceX 86 Pursue romantically 11 Tax pro 87 Attempt 12 Sum’s opposite 90 They’re better than one, 13 Hands over, like land it’s said 14 43,560 square feet 15 Piece of wax on a document, 95 ‘60s attorney general’s monogram say 99 Rum-soaked cake 16 Pushing boundaries 101 Mother ___ (native 18 Firebird roof option language) 19 Morales of “Ozark” 102 They’re attached to pet 21 One may be Freudian collars 25 GPS guesses 103 “Cool beans!” 31 Folktale 104 Second place? 32 Forensic show until 2015 61 Transmits 89 From Ireland, perhaps 105 Global legal venue, with 33 Casual pants originally 62 Not in mint condition 91 Like much expensive “The” worn by soldiers 64 Company number? produce 107 Dutch cheese 35 Became ready to pick 65 Annoy 92 Elite NFL player 38 Tried to avoid getting tagged 108 Baby ___ (“The Mandalo66 Group with pitchforks 93 As you solve this rian” nickname) 40 Factual 68 Short snooze 94 “Iliad” setting 109 iPods after Minis 41 Actor Guinness 70 Young bloke 96 “Do the ___!” (“Figure it 110 Poker pot 42 Common surface for a 71 What to do before you reap out!”) 111 Casino calculations laptop, ironically 74 Southwestern beast of 97 Tissue layer 112 Snare 43 Martini’s partner in burden 98 Toothpaste amount 113 Sub sandwich vermouth 76 Steady guy 100 Phone alert, slangily 115 Oompah instrument 44 Comic book artist 78 Upside-down “e,” phoneti- 102 Charged particle 119 SLC church 45 College wall growth cally 103 Quarterback nicknamed 120 Slippery swimmer 46 Was in charge of 80 Acting bug? “Broadway Joe” 122 Farrow or Wasikowska 48 Mario ___ (racing video 85 Knack for tying chess 106 Beer enjoyed while game) games? watching the Stanley Cup? 88 Less tame 111 Not this or that, with “the” 50 Campfire residue

CELEBRITY CIPHER

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

“PZB KZYT BTMKZD, ETZEVT TNCSTB MBT LNH PMDK MDW SMRT CZ JKT YT, ZB CSTU WZD’C AJNCT JDWTBKCMDW GSMC N’Y WZNDH.” – PBTW GNVVMBW “Z NHECR CZGD AH DKR NHLCR PEKUDL WKR YLDWAD NHLCR ODWYD, TAHO YHLLEOAZHK, TAHO RLEUT UDAAZKU AH GZRT.”

– GDCCX OLDTAHK Puzzle Two Clue: P equals H

WEST ORANG E HISTO RY

OBSERVER

Puzzle One Clue L equals B

SUDOKU

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

12-24-20

DECEMBER 24, 2020

SPORTS

West Orange freshman Jasmynne Gibson already is finding success on the hardwood. Page 16.

HIGH

Lord steps aside, hands program to Walker

The recently named Lake Buena Vista High School — the relief school for Dr. Phillips and Freedom — announced Thursday, Dec. 17, Joe Rienzi as its first head football coach. The former St. Cloud assistant said in a tweet that he “can’t wait to get to work building the LBV program into something the students, community and staff can be proud of for years to come.”

After launching Foundation Academy’s football program, Brad Lord hands the reins over to defensive coordinator Andre Walker. TROY HERRING SPORTS EDITOR

Some championships just mean more than others. The West Orange Wildcats youth cheer program was about to understand the meaning of that as they sat and waited in the Orange Convention Center. After the scores had been tallied, both the Wildcats Jr. Pee Wee and Wildcats varsity teams

When Brad Lord met Andre Walker a few years ago, he knew there was something special about him. Walker joined Lord’s Foundation Academy football program in 2015 and has served as the defensive coordinator and assistant head coach. Through the years, Lord noticed Walker’s coaching and his ability to bond with the players. He knew one day his program would belong to Walker. And the time to hand the reins over to Walker has come, as Foundation announced Thursday, Dec. 17, that Lord would be stepping down as head coach. Walker will take over one of the most dominant programs in Class 2A football. “I watched him build relationships with our players — that was key to knowing when it was time for me to step down,” Lord said. “Coach Walker, it’s his time. A guy in the restaurant business told me, ‘Don’t let talent ever walk away.’ “I know how much he loves Foundation and how much he has put his heart into this,” he said. “He was the right man.” Walker takes over a program that won nine games and picked up its first regional title — a 7-0 win over rival and proverbial thorn in their side Victory Christian — this year. A big part of that was thanks to Walker’s defense. For Walker, the new opportunity is a blessing and the fulfillment of a promise Lord made years ago. It’s the moment he knew was coming but was still overcome by when it finally happened. “It’s an honor to have Coach Lord be a mentor and trust in me to take over the program, because it’s like his baby,” he said. “He grew the program, and now with addition of me with him, we built something special. For him to instill and trust in me the program, it means a lot. “It’s hard to give up something where you don’t climb to the top of the mountain like we did this year, and to step aside and let a young gentleman like myself step into this position and take over,” he said. Lord helped start the football program in 2008. In 12 years, he has molded it into one of the most competitive programs in the state. For years, the Lions have been a consistent contender in the state playoffs, and Lord has been named Coach of the Year on multiple occasions by the Florida Athletic Coaches Association. He also

SEE CHEERING PAGE 16

SEE NEW PAGE 16

Several local football players were invited to participate in this year’s Cure Classic All-Stars game in Winter Park Thursday, Dec. 17. Jalen Thompson (Dr. Phillips), Tae’Quan Johnson (Ocoee), Jordan Thomas (Olympia), Ronnie Hayes (Dr. Phillips), De’Andre Robinson (Olympia), Amer Amer (Windermere), Chryse Gunn (Ocoee), Jahshari Jones (West Orange), Tyson Schwalbach (West Orange) and Miles Benjamin (Olympia) represented the area on the Orange County AllStars. Meanwhile, Scotty West (Foundation), Carlos Ponce de Leon Mendes (Windermere Prep), Wilkerson St. Juste (CFCA) and Greyson Labiad (Foundation) represented the area on the Seminole County All-Stars.

CHEERING

Former Windermere Prep Laker and Rollins College soccer standout Kelly Rowswell was named to the Sunshine State Conference women’s soccer AllDecade Team Wednesday, Dec. 16. Rowswell played between the pipes for the Tars from 2016 to 2019 and landed on the SSC AllConference First Team on three separate occasions.

CHAMPS

The West Orange Wildcats youth cheer program recently took home multiple national titles at the Pop Warner National Cheer & Dance Championship in Orlando.

In Windermere Prep girls basketball’s 55-42 win over Faith Christian Monday, Dec. 14, freshman Olivia Ikeda stepped up big for the Lakers as she picked up 15 points, three rebounds and three assists.

TROY HERRING SPORTS EDITOR

Despite the Windermere girls basketball team falling 60-58 to Apopka Monday, Dec. 14, senior Abigail Crain exploded for her best game of the season as she went for a whopping 32 points for the Wolverines. The loss dropped the Wolverines to 0-2 on the season.

Courtesy photos

The West Orange Wildcats brought home national titles this month.

SPORTS SPOTLIGHT

OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020

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

Jasmynne Gibson

There have been challenges in adjusting to the high school game, but West Orange freshman Jasmynne Gibson already is finding success on the court for the Warriors girls basketball team. So far this season, she is averaging more than 10 points per game and leads the team in rebounding.

When did you first get into basketball? Around third grade — mostly because my brother was playing, so I just started playing with him, and I started to like it.

THE BASICS SCHOOL: West Orange High GRADE: Freshman AGE: 14 SPORT: Basketball POSITION: Power forward

What is it about basketball that you enjoy so much? The action, the bonding with teammates — though mostly the action. I’m a competitor, so I like to compete against other teams.

“You’re good, you got it, just make it up the next time.” What were your expectations coming into your first high school season? At first, I didn’t really have high expectations, because I was new to all of this — I didn’t even know what to expect. But I think for my first year, I’m really liking it — I’m doing really good — so I think it exceeded my expectations.

What’s your favorite thing about playing power forward? The toughest part? My favorite part about that position is probably the looks from my teammates — I can just set a pick and roll, and it’s a wide-open lane for me. And the hardest part would probably be rebounding against other defenders.

Did you have any goals you were hoping to achieve in this first high school season? (Picking up) double-doubles — I’m working toward that; that was my goal coming into the season.

What is the toughest part about basketball in general? If I do something wrong or I mess up, I will get super mad. I’ll miss and I get mad, and it’ll mess up the next play — I let my emotions get in the way; that’s the hardest part for me.

How’s the season for you so far during this strange season? Good, but can be better. Some games I play (well), some games could be better, but I want to be able to play consistent all the time.

How do you get past those challenging times? I’ll think to myself, “It’s fine — everyone misses — you got it the next play.” Or my teammates will come and say,

What’s been the biggest adjustment that’s been challenging in your first season at WOHS? Playing against people who are better. In middle school ... you don’t play with a bunch of people who are D1 and all that, and then in high school, you’re jumping into a different skill level — a bunch of people who are better and who have better skills than you do. — TROY HERRING

Cheering championship CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15

were waiting to hear their names called during the Pop Warner National Cheer & Dance Championship. Then, the moments for both teams happened, and the results were big: The Wildcats Jr. Pee Wee team picked up the title in the YCADA PW 1 Non-Mount Cheer Junior Pee Wee Small Division, while The Wildcats Varsity team picked up the title in the YCADA PW 1 Non-Mount Cheer Varsity Small Division. “I’ve taken teams to nationals, and it’s rewarding every season, but I think this year in particular it just felt a little different because of how much you went through,” said Nicole Capozzi, head coach of the Pee Wee team. “Everyone kind of dealt with the pandemic in a different way. … But for us, kind of getting to make a lot of history for our town and for the girls to be exposed to something this big at such a young age was so unforgettable.” This year’s national competition — which took place from Dec. 5 to 7 — was different than previous years. A coach could take only two girls in to listen for the final results, said varsity coach LuAnn Goodell. Regardless of the limitations, it didn’t take away from the happiness the trophy brought her and her squad. “Of course, when we did come out, to see the parents and the other girls’ reactions was priceless — I was crying,” Goodell said. “They were all very excited, and

(it was) very well-deserved. I had a very good group of kids.” A SEASON OF CHANGE The road to nationals was about as strange as you would expect. The season normally would start Aug. 1, but the coaches with the Wildcats program waited in uncertainty for nearly a month. When the season began, there were the usual guidelines put into place, but it was the elimination of stunting that really made things challenging, said Chaelynn McCullough, an assistant on the Pee Wee team. “There were a lot of complications at the beginning, because when you think of cheerleading, you know of stunting and tumbling — we had to figure out how to make a routine with no stunts, because with city regulations we really couldn’t do hands-on,” McCullough said. “No one has heard of a non-stunting cheer team.” Along with the technical adjustments, all practices also had to be held outside — a challenge due to Florida’s wild weather. The masks also were tiring for the younger girls who were on the Pee Wee team, which comprises children ages 8 through 11. But the older girls — ages 12 to 16 — handled them in a surprisingly nonchalant way. “They all adapted really, really well to it,” Goodell said. “Actually, I had girls who, when it came to competition time and they took the mat, they really wanted to wear their masks but knew their

Courtesy photo

New era CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15

earned the 2020 Head Coach of the Year from the Observer. Lord has helped get dozens of his players to the next level — including the program’s first Power Five signee in Danny Stutsman — which is why he will now take on the role of football operations and athletic collegiate placement director at the school. “The deal was he couldn’t step

down as head coach if he didn’t move over to my program director,” Athletic Director Lisa Eaves said. “What we’re trying to create at Foundation Academy — across the board — are program directors that will help oversee our programs and help them reach max potential. … Athletic directors can only be in so many places at one time. “We have some great athletes coming up ... so having his expertise in the recruiting arena is just going to be phenomenal for us as a school,” she said. Along with his new role

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helping the student-athletes at Foundation catch college recruiters’ eyes, Lord now gets to do something he didn’t have a chance to do this season: Watch his son play football. Lord’s son, Brady, just finished his sophomore season on the team, so the man who helped build the school’s football program finally will get the opportunity to simply sit in the stands and watch his son — and his program — play the game he loves. “I’ve had 12 years of a great ride here,” Lord said.

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GOING ALL OUT As the shortened season progressed, the girls got more comfortable with the restrictions, and soon, they burned through the Mid-Florida competition before winning hardware at regionals. There, the Pee Wee team took second in non-mount and first in cheer, while the varsity girls took first in non-mount. In Capozzi’s eyes, getting first in cheer while being handed a decent second-place finish was a bit of a wake-up call for her girls. “They still came in second, but it motivated them, and it kind of lit that match of, ‘Hey, I want to do better,’ and then also rewarded them with the huge gap in scores for dance — it really proved that all of their efforts were being noticed,” Capozzi said. “I think regionals was a great turning point for our season.” Although the season is now over and Capozzi, Goodell and McCullough have time to reflect on this weird and successful season, the memories they have will last a good, long while, Goodell said. “They were awesome,” Goodell said. “It was an awesome year even though it was short footballwise. I love the girls — they did an awesome job.”

Brad Lord has handed the reins of his Foundation football program over to assistant Andre Walker.

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A star on both sides of the ball for Foundation Academy, Danny Stutsman officially signed during Early National Signing Day to play football at the University of Oklahoma. TROY HERRING

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Danny Stutsman will be making his way to Norman in the fall to play defense for the Sooners.

years at the school, especially during his sophomore and junior seasons when he realized what it would take to make it up to the next level of football. Now that his high school season is finished, Stutsman is back to the hardwood playing for the Lions’ basketball team, but he’s looking forward to a future in Norman, Oklahoma — and he has a message for the Sooners fans he hopes to win over as fans. “I’m just excited to get on the field as soon as possible, I’m ready to work, and I’m eager to get out there,” Stutsman said. “I think I’d want to tell them (the fans) I’m eager to get to work from the first day I step on campus, and I won’t stop working until the day I leave.”

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the first Oklahoma signee to get his paperwork in that day. Although he played on both sides of the ball for the Lions and found success on offense, Stutsman was recruited as a linebacker for the Sooners. At the OLB position, Stutsman — a four-star prospect and ranked 12th overall at the outside linebacker position by 247Sports — was part of a defense that helped lead the Lions to their first regional title and an impressive 9-2 season in the middle of a pandemic. And over the course of his four years on the team, he picked up a school-best 333 total tackles while amassing 20 sacks and eight caused fumbles. “Danny is such a great kid,” said Lions former head coach Brad Lord. “For a kid with his accolades, he is a very humble kid. He’s the greatest player I’ve coached — I’ve coached a lot of good ones, and he is right up there. “He’s going to be a stud at Oklahoma — Lincoln Riley picked right,” he said. “He’s an athlete, and I wouldn’t be surprised if he doesn’t get on the field right away as a freshman.” Looking back on his time at Foundation, Stutsman said he had grown a lot — both physically and mentally — during the past four

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In the immortal words of the late Tom Petty, “The waiting is the hardest part.” Those words rang with a bit of truth for Foundation Academy standout Danny Stutsman — who played both at linebacker and wide receiver — and his long wait to sign his national letter of intent with his school of choice: the University of Oklahoma. Although there were some athletes who waited until Early National Signing Day — Wednesday, Dec. 16 — the Foundation senior gave his verbal commitment to Oklahoma in May, and he’s been waiting for signing day ever since. “It’s just a relief,” Stutsman said.“It’s pretty much pure excitement at my house right now — I’m happy the day has come, and I’m ready to work from here on out.” Originally, a signing-day event was planned on campus, but after COVID-19 complications delayed that idea several times, the signing took place in the Stutsman home. “It was a little stressful — hearing from Coach Lord and that we have to re-change it and rechange it,” Stutsman said. “I got a little stressed out at the time, but I mean, I knew everything was going to be fine as long as I signed that paper.” And Stutsman didn’t just wait around to sign his letter of intent. He did it first thing in the morning at the behest of his position coach at Oklahoma. Stutsman said he could hardly sleep the night leading up to signing day, but at 7 a.m., he put pen to paper and made it official. In the process, he became

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See store for details

Full Synthetic Oil Service $

Custom measured, designed, manufactured and installed by shutter experts.

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

STRESS

179.95 179.95 edes E-Class BMW 5 Series Merc $199.95 $199.95

3.3" x 1" starting at $28.00 3.3" x 2" starting at $33.00 3.3" x 4" starting at $55.00

ORLANDO PREMIUM SHUTTER ers!

WE BUY JUNK CARS WE BUY SCRAP METAL

FREE

$ 99/ sq. ft.

Tires and Alignments

Tune-Ups and General Repair

In House Towing Available

FL 34787 S. 9th Street • Winter Garden,

Financing

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

PEST CONTROL

Center” “Your Complete Service ter Garden, FL 34787 10 West Story Rd. Win MV-01095 TFN

ie Hud

Richard Hudson • Regg

301029

REG#

Phone 407-656-6646 son

• Bridgestone • Michelin • Toyo • BFG

Tires

Willie’s Bar-B-Que Beef

302828

CATERING

“A luxury everyone can afford!”

• Chicken • Ribs • Pork • • Small & Large Orders • Catering

Style BBQ! We make Old Fashioned, Texas s Women and Children. A portion

Homeles of the profits help to fund

PET SERVICES

l Puppy Dreams Pet Hoe te

Willie J. Fulmore Owner

469-0060 17436 7th Street • 407-

from hom Your pet’s home away ty

301015

/ sq . ft.

The best shutt The best prices! With the best warranty!

881

BMW

3 59

...

Fully Installed From...

AUTO SERVICE

SA LE BR AK E PA Dedes C-Class 3 Series Merc

Full LAMIN y In stall ATE ed F rom

. ft.

9 / sq

Ins

301025

-FAMILY OWNED &

Three Business Card Sizes to choose from:

FLOORING

AUTO SERVICE

AIR CONDITIONING

LV11098

301035

OBSERVER

301014

WEST ORANGE TIMES &

301016

298995

347234

102 W. McKey Street Historic Downtown Ocoee www.LetItGoLifestyle.com (407) 797-3534

UPGRADES & REPAIRS

a unique no-cage facili boarding daycare and overnight

(407) 654-8885

TFN

Color included on all ads! Publishes every Thursday, and deadlines Friday the week prior.

OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020

OrangeObserver.com

A Very Big

THANK YOU to our community for donating over 1,500 books for kids in need this Holiday Season

Thank You for the Generous Donations • William Cox

• Winter Garden Senior

• Lucy Bradford

Group- Jessie Brock Community Center

Thank You to our Distribution Partners • Winter Garden

Police Department Holiday Gifts for Kids Program • Ocoee Police Department Holiday Gifts for Kids Program • Christian Service Center

• Edgewood Childrens Ranch • Spring Lake Elementary • Matthew’s Hope • Community Health Center

Thank You to the Following Collection Sites • The French Cafe • Bridgewater Middle School • Houseblend Cafe • Grain & Berry • Ocoee Police Department • Sunset Park Elementary • Dr Phillips YMCA

• West Orange Chamber of Commerce • Orange Technical College • Foundation Academy • Gymnastics USA • Roper YMCA • Pammie’s Sammies

348002-1

. . . t i a W But

S â&#x20AC;&#x2122; E R THE ! E R MO

XNLV18913

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