01.26.23 Southwest Orange Observer

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Social, North Italia, Windermere Pizza 14, ole Red, Cu ba Libre, Ellie Lou’s Brews & BBQ, Dixie Cream Café, Market to Table, Do Good Farm, Nothing Bundt Cakes, Pilars, Windermere Brewing Company, Kelly’s Homemade Ice Cream, The Modern Host and Seito Sushi.

With the support of sponsors, restaurants and participants over the years, more than $850,000 has been donated to local charities.

PAGE 4A.

Orange County will break ground Jan. 26 on a new complex that will become the home of the Dr. Phillips Little League. SEE 1B.

The town will host the 2023 Heritage Day to celebrate 135 years. SEE PAGE 6A.

Photos by Andrea Mujica

Windermere, Horizon West, Dr. Phillips

City mulls options to keep its downtown charm

Initially settled in the 1850s, Winter Garden began to grow significantly after the arrival of the railroad in the 1880s.

By the turn of the century, a small commercial district had emerged along Plant Street and residential neighborhoods began to appear.

The historic development of the area spans from about 1890, the date of the oldest remaining buildings, through 1945. With few exceptions, the historic buildings in Winter Garden date between 1915 and 1940.

In 2009, the City Commission created an Architectural Review and Historic Preservation Board to advise and make recommendations on new construction, demolitions, renovations and upgrades of buildings within the district.

On Jan. 11, 2010, the City Commission adopted Ordinance 10-05, which established a Historic Downtown Architectural Overlay for the designated area in the city’s historic downtown district. The area is about 116 acres and includes 270 residential and commercial properties.

“The city’s historic district is the heart of the community — it

contains some of the city’s oldest, most treasured structures,” Planning Director Kelly Carson said. “The historic buildings tell the story of Winter Garden, helping us understand the social, cultural, economic and environmental transformations that have shaped the area.”

Recently, Carson said, the city also worked with a consultant to prepare an updated architectural survey of structures within the historic district and beyond. The city will be using those findings and recommendations to update the historic district regulations, potentially expanding the district and considering additional structures for contributing status.

TURNING POINT

The historic fabric of Winter Garden remains largely intact; however, District 1 Commissioner Lisa Bennett believes the city is coming to a turning point.

“The city is coming to a point where our comprehensive plan is reaching our maximum growth,” she said. “So we’re looking overall at more of a redevelopment phase, not so much development.”

City Manager Jon Williams agreed that as a city, the area is reaching build-out.

“Moving forward we will be dealing more and more with redevelopment and infill development,” he said.

“Infill development needs to be

respectful and compatible with the existing environment. We need to just make sure our codes accomplish that.”

Although Bennett believes the city and staff have done a great job with allowing good development, the area is entering into a critical-mass phase in which the city has to be careful to protect the area — as well as to allow change.

“The only thing for sure in life is change, and as a city, if you don’t, you’re stagnant,” she said. “What we’ve allowed to be developed I think has been good, specifically here in my district. Everybody wants to come here. That’s great, but as a commissioner I’m elected to protect the people (who) currently live here.”

BACKGROUND

At the City Commission meeting Thursday, Dec. 8, 2022, Bennett spoke of her district, in and around the downtown area, older homes being demolished and rebuilt, and how this is changing the character of the area.

To preserve the character and protect the charm of the residential area surrounding downtown, she asked Williams to revisit a draft ordinance establishing a downtown residential overlay district. Another option she suggested would be to research the existing code for modification, which would place a size restriction on the residential buildings within the downtown district.

Bennett suggested when demolishing a single-story home, a single-

story home should be rebuilt in its place. She also suggested incentives for saving, remodeling or upgrading older homes — and possibly allowing additions within guidelines of the code.

The city said maintaining balance is the key.

“The city is tasked with finding a balance between respecting individual property rights while maintaining the small-town charm that defines us,” Carson said. “It is a delicate balancing act that involves close coordination with a number of stakeholders including community members, land owners, developers, elected officials and other interested parties.”

From 2012 to 2022, the city has added one million square feet in the downtown area. The percentage value change for the downtown Community Redevelopment Agency in the same years is 187%. Projects that have been approved downtown throughout the past years include new apartment buildings such as on Tremaine and Boyd, mixed use with retail; Park and Plant, townhomes; Smith and Main, coming soon; and a new apartment building on East Plant Street.

Building addition projects that have or are expanding their commercial footprint include Plant Street Market, 2016; The Exchange, 2022; 161 S. Boyd St., 2017; 360 W. Plant St., 2018; expansion of the Whole Enchilada building adding a rooftop area, 2018; and Tremaine/Boyd, 2019.

COMMUNITY CONSERVATION

As a Winter Garden native, Bennett has watched the downtown area transform first hand.

“I know a lot of people (who) have lived in this area forever,” she said. “I know how proud the citizens are in my district, and I know that they have Winter Garden’s best interest at heart. They just want to preserve this way of life for their children and grandchildren.”

The main concern citizens have expressed is they want new structures to blend with the area without being overbearing and with no encroaching variances.

The idea of preservation is not uncommon among cities. Many have adopted similar ordinances, which provide criteria for infill development and what a property owner can build on a property.

As a real-estate broker, Bennett said she has watched several of the older homes in the area be bulldozed and the values of the properties shoot through the roof.

“District 1 is a little unique in that it’s more individual investors that come here,” she said. “They’re like, ‘Well I love downtown. I want to move my family here and take part in that,’ because the city makes it a very desirable place to come and live.”

Looking forward, Bennett said she would love for residents to attend City Commission meetings.

Struggling for survival

ANNABELLE SIKES NEWS EDITOR

When 16-year-old Valeria Arraiz Ramos came home from school Wednesday, Jan. 4, her family knew there was something wrong.

Valeria was behaving differently, moving slowly and barely speaking. That night, she barely slept or ate.

The West Orange High School junior has now been at the AdventHealth for Children hospital for almost three weeks. Although she’s gone from critical condition to stable, her recovery process is slow and financially challenging for the family of five who came from Venezuela.

Valeria’s father, Carlos, said the family is at a loss for what to do.

“We are upset and frustrated, because we never thought we would be in a situation like this,” he said. “We are crying, nervous and desperate.”

WARNING SIGNS

Valeria didn’t go to school Thursday, Jan. 5; she wasn’t feeling well and couldn’t talk. She wasn’t even responding to single commands, so her parents took her to the emergency room.

There, doctors ran tests on Valeria’s blood and her urine, ran a meningitis encephalitis panel, and a computed tomography scan; and did an X-ray of her chest. The results all came back negative, and the only abnormality was the detection of a urinary tract infection.

Valeria was released from the hospital and went home that night, but her mental status didn’t improve.

The following day, Friday, Jan. 6, Valeria couldn’t recognize her family or even talk. She was rushed to the children’s hospital, where she remains.

Valeria doesn’t respond, talk or eat. She has a feeding tube. Doctors are still looking for answers and are running a battery of tests to figure out why Valeria is having these symptoms.

Although she is now stable and can walk, her recovery process is slow.

She is completing physical and speech therapy every day. She can

HELP THE FAMILY

n GoFundMe: bit.ly/3DbUNhZ

n Amazon Wishlist for gift card donations and food items: bit. ly/3iUQSzj. Choose the “West Orange HS Food Pantry C/O Margaret Beadle’s Gift Registry Address” for shipment directly to WO.

n Alternatives: Gift cards to Publix, Target, Walmart or gas stations (to assist the family with travel to and from downtown Orlando) can be purchased and dropped off to the front office at the school to the attention of Mrs. Beadle. Food items such as pasta, sauce, bread, cereal, etc. can be delivered to the school front desk as well.

NEWS BRIEFS

PAM GOULD RESIGNS FROM SHEPHERD’S HOPE

Pam Gould, president and CEO of West Orange nonprofit Shepherd’s Hope, has resigned. Her last day will be Jan. 31 the organization announced Friday, Jan. 20.

“Pam Gould has decided to chart another path of service, which cannot be pursued while at Shepherd’s Hope,” Shepherd’s Hope Board Chair John Miller said in a prepared statement. “Pam’s leadership has been instrumental to guiding Shepherd’s Hope through the challenges the pandemic presented the last several years. On behalf of our Board of Directors, I thank Pam for her many contributions and wish her the very best in her next chapter of community service.”

The Shepherd’s Hope board will begin a search for a permanent president immediately. Founder Dr. Bill Barnes will serve as interim CEO.

Shepherd’s Hope provides free health care access for the uninsured through urgent and specialty care and connecting where appropriate to ongoing care. The organization provides services in West Orange from its Winter Garden headquarters, 455 Ninth St., Winter Garden.

WOPA ELECTS NEW CHAIRWOMAN

hardly hold objects in her hands.

As of Friday, Jan. 20, Valeria also tested positive for COVID-19.

FINANCIAL FIGHT

Valeria is the oldest daughter in a family of five. In addition to her father, Carlos, the family includes her mother, Leidys; sister Valeska, 15; and brother Vicente, 9.

The family fled from Venezuela and came to Florida in 2017 seeking political asylum.

According to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, the Arraiz Ramoses are among more than 850,000 people who fled the country and are waiting to establish residency in the United States for the same reason.

The family does not have any relatives in the U.S. to support them emotionally or financially, and they are still working on mastering English.

Carlos Arraiz is a salesman in a furniture store in Orlando, while Leidys Ramos recently was hired by a local restaurant to work in the kitchen. Leidys Ramos was only on her second week at the job when Valeria got sick. Now, she has lost her job because of her time spent with her daughter in the hospital.

Although the family is facing a lifealtering turn of events, the bills won’t stop coming.

The parents have two other younger children to feed and rent to pay.

A friend of the family, Renata Harris, launched a GoFundMe page for the family Sunday, Jan. 8. However, the family recently had to close the page and open a new one because they need the money that is already there.

SWEET STUDENT

Marisol Gerritsen, West Orange High School Spanish teacher, has been working with the family to offer support in any way possible.

She shared Valeria is one of her top students in her AP Spanish Literature & Culture class, as well as a studious and dedicated student.

Gerritsen visits Valeria when she can after work; she feels it is her duty as a teacher to help when someone is in real need.

“Valeria is a very good student,” Gerritsen said. “She’s sweet, very responsible, respectful and has a lot of friends at school that care about her. All the teachers love her. She is in my smallest class on period six. It is an advanced course at university level in high school. We are like family. We make coffee; I bring them food, cupcakes and cookies; and we read stories, poetry, drama and novels.”

West Orange High has given Gerritsen some food items and gift cards to take to the family over the last few

weeks. Gerritsen also has brought flowers, chocolates and books, with the hope Valeria will be able to read.

“The West Orange High School PTSO is committed to helping this special Warrior family in their time of need,” the PTSO stated.

Valeria is part of the Spanish Honor Society at the school. She also loves modeling, dancing and baking.

She won Miss Latina Tampa 2020 in the pre-teen category and is known for her flavorful birthday cakes.

When asked to describe their daughter, Valeria’s parents said, “She is amazing, a good person, nice, respectful, beautiful, friendly and awesome.”

County increases impact fees for fire, police, parks

nents, service area and population, and fee comparison. Law enforcement is similar.

“Under Florida statutes, any increases in impact fees have to be done in phasing so there’s not sort of a gut punch to the industry,” Wilson said.

AMY QUESINBERRY COMMUNITY EDITOR

The Orange County Board of County Commissioners approved at its Tuesday, Jan. 10 meeting three ordinances designed to increase impact fees assessed on new development. The rates were raised for fire/rescue services, law enforcement, and parks and recreation.

The rate of increase depends on the type of dwelling or building. For instance, the impact fee for fire/rescue services rose from $339 to $346 for a single-family detached dwelling, the fee for law enforcement increased from $502 to $510, and the fee for parks and recreation went up from $1,785 to $2,246.

“It’s important for people to know that the impact fees that are assessed on new development is what is used to pay for the infrastructure required to accommodate the new develop-

ment,” Orange County District 1 Commissioner Nicole Wilson said. “It’s a fee that is tagged onto the specific type of permit that is issued.”

The fees are assigned according to the type of development and the impact it has on the infrastructure — for example, a warehouse vs. an apartment complex.

“Those are all assessed differently,” Wilson said.

“For the Parks and Recreation Department, staff looks at aspects from service area and population, cost components, fee comparisons, facility inventory, level of service, demand component and, net impact of costs,” Wilson said. “It’s numbercrunching. They really are able to give it to us as, per population, there is where you are and where you need to be to continue the level of service.”

For fire/rescue, county staff looked at facility inventory, level of service, credit components, demand compo-

The county previously completed updates for transportation in 2020 and schools in 2021.

The commission is provided with a technical study every five years to ensure impact fees are based on the most current and localized data.

HOW THIS AFFECTS CITIZENS

Wilson said the commission is looking at impact-fee incentives, as well, to encourage investors to create a variety of housing markets, including affordable housing. There currently is a crisis in the housing market, with rising sales and rental prices and a decrease in housing inventory.

“The update is closely tied to our efforts to increase affordable housing inventory by adding exemptions for accessory dwelling units (1,500 square feet or less) and exemptions for certified affordable housing units,” Wilson said.

“(The impact fees) were originally adopted in the 1980s as a way to require new development to pay a share of the infrastructure costs necessitated by its development,” she said. “They are a one-time fee on new development. The updated transportation impact fee went into effect on June 27, 2021.”

Orange County took inventory of its fire/rescue services and has 40 fire stations (owned, excludes four leased stations), three ancillary facilities, 380,000 square feet of building space on 94 acres of land, and $139.7 million worth of vehicles and equipment.

Law-enforcement inventory totaled 374,000 square feet of total building space, 147 acres of land, and $156 million in necessary vehicles and equipment.

Park acreage is divided into two classifications: activity-based and resource-based. This list includes 26 community parks, 21 specialty parks, six district parks and one regional park totaling 5,000 acres. That does not include Habitat parklands, smaller neighborhood and pocket parks, or parks located in municipalities.

The 26-member board of the West Orange Political Alliance has elected Michelle Strenth as its new chairwoman. Strenth previously served on the WOPA board as its vice chairwoman for the past two years.

Strenth is an executive with more than 15 years of experience in public policy and advocacy. She has provided thought leadership and worked to protect various companies’ legislative and regulatory initiatives as they are created with various legislative and municipal bodies. She ensures robust relationships are established with all elected officials, agency staff, industry associations and community leaders.

She has a degree in finance from East Tennessee State University and her MBA from the University of Central Florida. She is a graduate of Leadership Florida, Leadership Orlando Class 76, Leadership Winter Park Class 29 and former chair of the Winter Park Chamber of Commerce.

She is a former board member of the Frederick Leadership Initiative and the Children’s Home Society of Central Florida.

“Michelle’s vast experience in the healthcare arena, working closing with legislators and policymakers, and dealing with issues within the West Orange area will certainly benefit our efforts,” said Nick Asma, former WOPA chairman.

WHAT ARE IMPACT FEES?

Impact fees are one-time charges assessed on new development to help pay for public infrastructure required to accommodate the new development. Impact fees are generally charged at the issuance of a project’s building permit. For certain types of land uses, the impact fee ordinances allow payment to occur prior to the authorization of pre-power or issuance of a project’s certificate of occupancy. The total impact fee for a project is the sum of the school, law enforcement, fire, parks and transportation impact fees, as well as the water and sewer capital charges.

The rate is assessed according to the various impact fees and depending on the land-use types such as residential, nonresidential and commercial categories. This includes single-family, detached, duplex and mobile home; multi-family; hotel and motel; retirement housing; commercial, retail and assembly; office and institutional; industrial; educational; and storage.

Source: Orange County Government

The Orange County Commission approved increases related to fire/rescue services, law enforcement, and parks and recreation.

Valeria Arraiz Ramos, a West Orange High School junior, has been in critical condition at the AdventHealth for Children hospital for almost three weeks. No one knows what has happened to her.

Courtesy photos

Minnie Mouse visited Valeria at the beginning of her stay in the hospital. Right: Valeria is a normal 16-year-old who loves modeling, baking and dancing.

ANDREA MUJICA STAFF WRITER

The Horizon West Theater Company will host its very first production of “The Wizard of Oz” at 6:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 27, and Saturday, Jan. 28, in the Lakeview Middle School auditorium.

“I had choreographed a couple of Horizon West Theater plays before, and when they asked me to direct, I really wanted to choose a show that could get as many kids involved as possible,” Wizard of Oz Director Kristi Hill said. “That was exactly what I was excited about, ‘The Wizard of Oz’ is written so you can do it with a small cast, but we were able to add dancers and add people to each of the numbers, so we kind of turned every small number into a big production to allow more kids to become involved and get featured in different ways.”

With 28 spots open during the audition process, the production provided availability for eight 4- to 6-year-olds who wished to audition and be a part of the play — the Horizon West Theater Shining Stars — and even had people on the waiting list.

Lilly Belle Lanese, 9, has been with the Horizon West Theater Company for two-and-one-half years. She auditioned for the roles of the Scarecrow, Dorothy and the Cowardly Lion. She will be portraying the Cowardly Lion this upcoming weekend.

“I am very excited to see how the audience reacts to me and my friends’ (acting),” she said. “(I’m excited) to being me and being the little lion that I am because … (everyone in ) the cast is so tall, and then all of the sudden, you have this little lion busting out these songs, and I feel the audience is going to be like, ‘She’s so tiny.’”

This is 11-year-old Eliana Iridarry’s second year as part of the theater cast, and she is loving portraying Dorothy on stage so far.

“I strove to be Dorothy,” she said. “One thing that’s unique (about Dorothy that I bring in) is my glasses.

Dorothy doesn’t wear glasses — and I also put a lot of energy into my lines.”

According to Eliana’s mom,

Crystal, the role of Dorothy has provided Eliana with an opportunity to learn how to open up and use her voice because of the hard work everyone in the theater puts in to help every child in the production.

“They have worked so hard with the children, teaching them and helping them get out of their shells,” Crystal said. “They are just a great team to be a part of; they really help the kids, and they are very positive.”

One of the unique twists Hill is most excited about presenting in this version of “The Wizard of Oz” is how whimsical it is.

“One of the things that really inspired me as director was the fact of taking it to a fantastical world that would allow us to exit our daily life and go into a fantasy,” she said.

“So that was part of my production design, I wanted everything in Kansas to be very linear and straight, but once we go to Oz, it is really like we went through the rabbit hole.”

Broadway Media, a mission-driven company that aspires to help those who want to become involved in the theater world at an affordable cost, offering screening projections, stage

ABOUT HORIZON WEST THEATER COMPANY

Founded in 2018, the Horizon West Theater Company has one mission — “to connect our community by encouraging participation in all aspects of theatrical production, providing arts education and inspiring performing artists and volunteers to create quality theater arts.”

The organization works as a nonprofit, and all who are part of it are volunteers who donate their time and efforts to creating theater magic. Currently, the productions at the company are pay for play, and the cost is $425 for all performances and rehearsals.

The Horizon West Theater Company currently has no home base, and is looking to set roots in the upcoming years in a place they can — in the future — call home, and offer theater performance opportunities for everyone in the community.

screens, stage projections, among others, is providing the projections for the play.

“Everything is bigger and rounder and fantastical,” Hill said. “So we really went on not trying to take a conventional take on everything, but we looked for the most whimsical way we can do this … almost like transporting into a different place — not just Oz — but a very specific Oz, where it’s lighthearted and very much like a cartoon, a whimsical version of ‘The Wizard of Oz.’”

A few key elements that make this play unique also include the fact that Dorothy notices herself going from sepia to color, Glinda wears a Maria Antoinette inspired gown with a pink wig, and the trees — or tree belles as they are called at the theater — wear hoop skirts.

Rehearsing is always the hardest part, and getting the children to learn their parts also can be challenging. But, since the auditions took place

“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

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last September and the roles were revealed, the cast has been practicing Thursdays and Saturdays every week for a couple of hours each day.

“The thing that’s most especial about these kids is that the majority are new cast performers,” Hill said.

“They are excited to learn; they are like little sponges. … (although) they may be young and new, with the costumes and the setting — and the projections from Broadway Media— we were able to put them in this professional quality production that they have gotten to embrace. They are eager to learn, ready to listen, and it’s been fun to see how young they are and watch them fall in love with theater.”

The set of the play would not be complete without all the volunteers that have spent hours building every prompt that is needed for decoration.

“We have an amazing production team,” Hill said. “This year, we realized we needed more volunteers. We introduced our new internship program, and we have two performance interns and one stage management intern. … No one involved in this production is getting compensated in any way, (all volunteers) have dedicated hundreds of hours every week, just because they love the kids and they love theater.”

Hill hopes the children come away from the experience with lessons that will service them throughout their lives and their acting careers.

“They have really worked together,” she said. “When they put in that effort and sacrifice, they were able to produce and create something amazing. And I see it even in our final rehearsals, leading up to (the performance), that energy and excitement, we’ve made something really special.”

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LISTENING SESSION:

Windermere residents sound off on pavilion

ANNABELLE SIKES NEWS EDITOR

Dozens of residents logged on to add their input to a proposed outdoor pavilion project planned for downtown Windermere.

The town, on Monday, Jan. 23, hosted a virtual public input workshop about the project, in partnership with Windermere Rotary Inc. and the West Orange Healthcare District. The plan includes a pavilion complete with a stage, concession stand and other amenities, with the goal of offering accommodations for more events in the future.

However, not all residents are thrilled; concerns ranged from noise and traffic to trees and location.

BACKGROUND

The project, approved in July 2020, is a partnership between the WOHD and Rotary Inc. A grant agreement between the WOHD and Rotary Inc. was effective as of May 5, 2021. Rotary Inc. received $1 million in grant funds from the WOHD to construct the pavilion.

Rotary Inc. received the first $200,000 in funding after the agreement was signed. It received a second payment — $400,000 — after the Town Council approved the architectural plans and the owner’s representative. The third payment — $400,000 — will be distributed within 50% completion of the project.

The grant agreement states if Rotary Inc. does not complete the pavilion, it may be considered a “material breach” of the agreement, allowing the WOHD to require repayment of some or all of the grant.

The grant also states the construction of the pavilion must begin within 18 months of the effective date, Nov. 5, 2022, and the pavilion must be completed and donated to the town within three years of the effective date, May 5, 2024.

Rotary Inc. and the town of Windermere entered into the second part of the project agreement June 22, 2021.

Town Council acknowledged Rotary Inc.’s receipt of the $1 million in grant funds and approved the construction of the pavilion with certain conditions including that ownership of the pavil-

ion be transferred to the town, and for concession rights to Rotary Inc. only for Healthy West Orange and Rotary Inc. events.

ANSWERING FAQS

Town Manager Robert Smith took the time to answer some of the most frequently asked questions by residents before taking public input.

One point of confusion has been the discrepancy between Windermere Rotary Inc. and the Windermere Rotary Club. The project is not part of the Windermere Rotary Club, as Windermere Rotary Inc. is a 501c3 nonprofit organization. Windermere Rotary Club is a separate organization.

Smith said the funds only can be used to construct the pavilion. Once the pavilion is constructed, ownership of the entire “project” constructed with the funds — including but not limited to the pavilion, concession stand, restrooms, etc. — will be transferred to the town.

Although Rotary Inc. will have exclusive rights to the concession stand, it will be only for Rotary Inc. events and HWO events. All Rotary Inc. events and HWO events will require a special event permit to be approved and issued by the town. The town manager will require the event organizer to submit the permit, hold a public information workshop, then appear before the Town Council for consideration.

COMMUNITY CONCERNS

More than 80 town residents participated in this week’s workshop, and their concerns and suggestions ran the gamut. Some even suggested eliminating the project altogether.

However, Smith said eliminating the project could make the town responsible for costs — estimated between $75,000 to $150,000 — already incurred by Rotary Inc.

Although the project was approved by the Town Council, if the council wanted to revise the project, then Rotary Inc. would need to amend the grant agreement with the WOHD, and the council would need to amend the project agreement that the town has with Rotary Inc.

“It is unknown whether the WOHD will agree to amend the grant agree-

ment, and if they do agree, whether the WOHD would require a reduction in the amount of the grant funds,” Smith said.

Other concerns included the projects size, design and location; noise; and parking and traffic.

Resident Tom Johnson said he appreciated all the work the town has put into the project.

“As a 20-year member of Rotary, we want the best for the community, and everyone on this Zoom is so caring for our town,” he said. “Hope we as Rotarians can help.”

Resident Regiane Cidral said she believes the project is organizing what is already offered today — but with a plus.

“This is a beautiful project that will bring more organization to our town,” she said. “No more rented portable restrooms, no more rented tents for the orchestra, food truck night will have better lighting and won’t need to rent it anymore, no more renting screens for the move nights, and the list goes on.”

Resident Liz Beavers said although she thinks the pavilion could be a great

asset to the town, she does have concerns about the size and placement.

“I understand about septic drain field and not building on top of them but wondering if all of that could be redesigned so the pavilion could be moved back and the angles shifted so it fits the space better and leaves more green space up front rather than wasted space in the back,” she said.

Resident Theresa SchretzmannMyers said her main concern is also the loss of green space and historic tree canopy.

“You cannot replace historic tree canopy and the shade, stormwater mitigation and carbon sequestration they do by destroying them,” she said.

“We don’t need a concession stand or a stage. You can bring in risers and a tent. … The additional noise, crowds, lighting and traffic this pavilion brings … is huge.”

Windermere Tree Board Chair Susan Carter said the trees being removed are tagged, and the last time she walked the site, five trees were being removed.

“I am hoping to that we can make every effort to save as many as pos-

sible — especially the pines,” Carter said. “The footprint of the building is staked, but it is a bit unclear. The current design of the building crosses the sidewalk and will result in the removal of an oak that has been tagged with tape.”

Town Council Member-elect Tom Stroup said as a retired cop, he knows noise and traffic always have been the No. 1 complaints in any community. He said Windermere is still 95% residential.

“What we forget sometimes is that we are a neighborhood,” he said. “We have to keep remembering the reason people are worried about noise and traffic is because this is our front yards. When we build this pavilion, it’s not just affecting the downtown area. … We’re literally putting a sound stage in the middle of our neighborhood.”

MOVING FORWARD Smith said the town will hold an additional public workshop to go over any amended plans if requested by the Town Council. A possible additional public input meeting may be hosted after any amendments are made. Both the 45% and the 100% plans would need to be approved by Town Council.

If there is any major deviation from the 100% approved design, additional Town Council approval is also necessary.

A project between Windermere Rotary Inc. and the West Orange Healthcare District may bring an outdoor pavilion to the northwest corner of Town Square Park.

Courtesy photos

The proposed pavilion will include a stage, a concession stand and other amenities.

County increasing programs at Maxey Community Center

In addition to children’s activities, Orange County wants to bring a more varied range of programming for adults and senior citizens.

AMY QUESINBERRY COMMUNITY EDITOR

After the COVID-19 pandemic, Orange County brought back some programs, but many facilities have been offering basic emergency programming, said Orange County District 1 Commissioner Nicole Wilson.

The county now is ramping up for a more robust offering of programs.

“There are some opportunities for better programs,” Wilson said. “I’m optimistic that we’ll be able to do things for each age group.”

In a focus on senior citizens, computer safety courses and a senior prom are being planned at the Maxey Community Center.

Orange County is searching for partnerships with organizations that can bring in educational components to West Orange County and, more specifically, to the Maxey Community Center.

“They are vetted as a partner and screened for not only their ability but to make sure they’re a good fit,” Wilson said.

The Orange County Commission approved a consent agenda at its Tuesday, Jan. 10, meeting that contained several items that pertain to West Orange County. Several of the items are either new contracts or renewals, Wilson said, and all are designed to improve the quality of life for residents.

The county approved a contract for reading and math coaches with City Year Inc. through Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Florida Inc. This is a countywide program and will be offered at the Maxey Community

Oakland to celebrate 135 years with Heritage Day

Center in east Winter Garden.

The total contract award amount is $375,000 for a three-year term.

A suspension prevention and intervention program contract was approved with Central Florida Urban League Inc. The total three-year contract term will cost $300,000.

The county has approved a contract with Harbor House of Central Florida, Inc. that focuses on domestic violence prevention. The three-year contract award is $600,000.

“We are a funder of the victims service center, which has a District 1 presence at Shepherd’s (Hope),” Wilson said.

This is an existing contract; Wilson said there is a push to make sure any of the funds placed into the community action programs are used.

“That’s part of our programming and our priorities to make sure we’re providing those safety nets and services,” she said.

An item on the BCC’s consent agenda for Tuesday, Jan. 24, pertained to the Orange County Citizens’ Commission for Children and a contract to pilot a domestic violence child care program for domestic violence survivors with children ages birth to 12 years to minimize barriers to care.

“Citizens’ Commission for Children will initiate referrals for DV child care for children approved by domestic violence service providers in Orange County,” the agenda item read. “The Community Coordinated Care for Children will work with each referred survivor to fund childcare at an approved childcare center. They will also collaborate with Orange County’s Neighborhood Centers for Families to identify additional needs of the survivor and his/her family.”

Childcare stipends will be provided countywide until funding is exhausted, and the number of children served will vary based on the individual cost of child care.

The town of Oakland has a half-day of activities scheduled at Speer Park and the town’s arts and heritage center.

AMY QUESINBERRY COMMUNITY EDITOR

Established in 1887, the town of Oakland is one of the oldest municipalities in Orange County and once was a major center of commerce with a thriving downtown that included an opera house and many businesses. A devastating fire wiped out the downtown but not the town’s determination to forge on.

Today, Oakland continues to grow, with more than 3,500 residents and an increasing commercial presence on Oakland Avenue and West Colonial Drive.

Oakland’s town commissioners, officials and residents will recognize that resolve to rebuild Saturday during the Oakland Heritage Day celebration in the town’s historic downtown area.

The event celebrates Oakland’s small-town charm, unique history, nature, wellness and the arts with a family-friendly day of live music, food trucks, fine arts and crafts, vendors, interactive children’s activities, and more.

Activities will take place in two locations: Speer Park and the Healthy West Orange Arts & Heritage Center.

At the arts and heritage center, Westly’s Sixth Annual Virtual 5K inperson event kicks off at 9 a.m. and continues to the Healthy West Orange Fresh Start Zone at Speer Park. Register at bit.ly/3JO7aT3. The Orlando Youth Chamber Ensemble will perform on the center porch from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Soul Haven Ranch will offer horse-drawn carriage tours beginning on Petris Avenue outside the center. Register at bit.ly/3X1QflF.

Folks can do their part in preserv-

IF YOU GO

OAKLAND HERITAGE DAY

WHEN: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 28

WHERE: Historic downtown Oakland — Speer Park, 331 N. Tubb St.; and Healthy West Orange Arts and Heritage Center, 126 W. Petris Ave.

WHAT TO BRING: Chair or blanket to enjoy the live entertainment; old Oakland photos, family documents, artifacts and stories to donate, copy or share at the heritage center

ing the town’s history by participating in a History Harvest. The town is hoping attendees will take their historic items relating to Oakland to the center from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. to be donated, loaned or scanned.

The center’s art and history exhibit will celebrate black heritage in Florida and Oakland with a soft opening of a new exhibition, “Hold Fast to Dreams,” from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The art exhibit delves into the town’s black heritage, starting with the growing workforce after the Civil

War of citrus, lumber and turpentine, and continuing through the arrival of the railroad and the refurbishing of the Historic African American Cemetery.

The exhibition also highlights many of Oakland’s black leaders, as well as families that have lived in the town for generations.

At Speer Park, The Gerry Williams Band, a funk, soul and R&B act, headlines the festival, with additional performances by soloist Kelly Jarrard and Handpicked, a banjo trio known for its residency at a local theme park. Food trucks will offer Burger Fi, Smoking Soul BBQ, Razzo’s Pizzeria and Hot Dog Therapy; and West Orange Creamery will have sweet treats, and a beer and wine garden.

The Oakland Nature Preserve is sponsoring Historic Florida, which will feature blacksmiths, animal ambassadors and a silent auction benefitting the preserve. Gatorland will bring live alligators, snakes and exotic reptile encounters.

For more information, visit oaklandfl.gov/999/Community-Events.

The event is presented by Orlando Health in partnership with Healthy West Orange and the Oakland Nature Preserve.

“Oakland Heritage Day at Speer Park has been a long-standing event that allows residents and attendees to enjoy the history, as well as all the arts and crafts, food, and beverages the vendors have to offer,” Oakland Mayor Kathy Stark said. “There will be bands, music and a hands-on educational offering from Gatorland Orlando. Runners can take part in Westly’s 6th Annual 5K held by Healthy West Orange.

“This event has a long history in Oakland and has gotten better year after year,” Stark said. “I always look forward to seeing residents I know and meeting new residents and attendees. Oakland has much to be proud of, and this is a great way to have fun and learn about our town at the same time.”

STATE OF THE CITY

The commission screened a State of the City video to summarize the achievements of 2022 and the future projects scheduled for 2023 during its Tuesday, Jan. 17, meeting.

“It has been my honor to serve you as your mayor since 2015,” Ocoee Mayor Rusty Johnson said in the video. “It’s been the city’s commitment to create smart, sustainable and safe development, we are no longer that small West Orange town.”

Headlining the Ocoee achievements in 2022 was the opening of its new City Hall. This $22 million project is part of the city’s downtown revitalization. Because construction was completed under budget, more parking spaces were added on Oakland Avenue, the sewer system to serve downtown businesses on the north side of McKey Street was extended, and there will be another parking area added on Lakewood Avenue.

UTILITIES DEPARTMENT

n Completed McKey Street water main upgrade as part of McKey Street reconstruction and utility improvements — added wider sidewalks and additional parking for the downtown area and finished phase one of the water main upgrades on West Oakland Avenue.

n Treated 631 million gallons of wastewater provided 1.345 billion gallons of potable water and 1.486 billion gallons of replanting water for citizens.

CRA n The overall property value with the CRA and the taxable property value for the CRA has increased from $157,484,822 in 2006 to more than $418 million in 2022.

n The CRA also began construction of the Healthy West Orange Wellness Park on South Bluford Avenue near the Ocoee Police Station. The park will include four shaded wellness stations and .5mile perimeter walking path. The West Orange Healthcare District awarded the CRA with a $2.25

million grant for the construction of the wellness park. Total cost is $2.75 million. It is expected to open this year.

MAJOR PROJECTS

n McKey Street reconstruction between Bluford Avenue and Lakewood Avenue

n North Lakewood/East Oakland reconstruction

n West Oakland/North Cumberland improvements, phase I drainage and utility upgrades

OCOEE FIRE DEPARTMENT

n Ocoee Fire Department responded to a total of 6,347 calls for services. Of those, more than 5,000 were for medical calls. The department transported 3,398 patients.

2023 UTILITIES PLANS

n Relocating of existing utilities on North Clarke Road to accommodate widening and expansion of sanitary sewer to Floral Street in the downtown area

n Wastewater facility tower upgrade design as well as continued replacement of system components that have met their service life

n Utility improvements from Bluford Avenue to Delaware Street to State Road 50

PARKS AND PROGRAMS

n Renovated pickleball courts at Tiger Minor Park

n Inclusive playground at Tiger Minor Park

n Installed disc golf course at Prairie Lake Park

n Escape Park at Vandergrift Central Park

n Fitness center at the Jim Beech center moved to the Vignette Fitness Center

n New girls youth volleyball league

Clear communication: Ocoee approves tower

The community-backed tower will be 5G-equipped and offer room for two different carriers.

ANDREA MUJICA STAFF WRITER

The Ocoee City Commission during its Tuesday, Jan. 17, meeting approved the special exception request to build what soon will be the Ocoee Oaks UMC Communications Tower.

The owner of the property — about 12.58 acres at 201 S. Clarke Road — is Ocoee Oaks United Methodist Church, Inc.

Applicant Mattania Jahn spoke in representation of Diamond Communications LLC, mentioning the “proposed bell tower would be painted white to look like an extension of the church’s campus.”

There were a few requirements regarding the construction of communications towers in the area, including a maximum height of 125 feet. However, the special exception for the Ocoee Oaks UMC Communications Tower granted the applicant permission for a 135-foot height.

Other stipulations include the location of the tower must be located on either private or public property but cannot be located on a single-family or duplex residential property; and an innovative design that will be aesthetically pleasing. Two design options were provided — a pine tree and a bell tower. Although there is no distance separation requirements, the proposed tower will be located about 217 feet from Clarke Road; and the tower will provide room for four future co-locations.

“This tower is something the entire (Whitehill) community is 100% behind,” Whitehill HOA President Doug Gomber said. “(The

IN OTHER NEWS

n The commission approved all items on the consent agenda. These include the approval of the election services contract with the Orange County Supervisor of Elections for the March 14 General Municipal Election; the approval to allow the fire department to accept the Dickey Foundation Grant that will allow the department to purchase one Lion SmartDummy Rescue training dummy and three Lion SmartDummy Rescue replacement coveralls; and the approval of the demolition of the old City Hall building located at 150 N. Lakeshore Drive, which passed 4-1 with Commissioner George Oliver dissenting.

n The commission approved unanimously the annexation and rezoning of the Howard Property located at 8708 A.D. Mims Road.

n The commission approved unanimously a substantial amendment to the Ocoee Town Shops PUD for a WaWa gas station. The property is 3.39 acres in size and located at the corner of Clarke Road and West Colonial Drive and is currently undeveloped.

applicant) has done a very good job trying to make this tower fit in the community; it fits perfectly with the church (design) and property. … We encourage (the commission) to take the bell tower plan — no one in our neighborhood likes the tree tower option, … but we would approve of you approving this amendment and this project.”

Commissioner Rosemary Wilsen added her thoughts on the subject

n The commission approved unanimously the adoption of the five-year schedule of the city of Ocoee Capital Improvement and the update of the Capital Improvements Element, used to consider the need for the prioritizing and the location of public facilities to encourage the use of those facilities in an efficient manner while there is development taking place within the city limits.

n The commission denied a petition from Commissioner Larry Brinson to combine the fire and police advisory boards into one Citizen Advisory Public Safety Board.

n The commission approved The Woman’s Club of Ocoee to host a political forum in relation to the upcoming March 14 election. There will be two forums hosted: one for districts 1 and 3 commission candidates from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 15, and another one for mayoral candidates from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 16.

n The commission rescheduled the appointment of members to the Human Relations Diversity Board to the Tuesday, Jan. 31, meeting. The motion passed 3-2 with commissioners Brinson and Oliver dissenting.

prior to the approval of the special exception.

“I’ve heard nothing but positive comments regarding the bell tower,” she said. “So, I am supportive of the bell tower.”

The communications tower will be 5G-equipped and will offer room for two different carriers to offer communication services to residents in the area.

Town of Windermere hosts first awards and recognition ceremony

The town of Windermere came together to host its first awards and recognition ceremony Friday, Jan. 20, at Family Church. The event honored town staff, police officers, community partners and more, and kicked off with hors d’oeuvres before friends and family gathered in the auditorium. The event included a presentation of colors by the Windermere Police Department Honor Guard; an invocation by Chaplain Wesley Beacham; opening remarks by Town Council member Bill Martini, Town Manager Robert Smith and Police Chief Dave Ogden, a video montage; the presentation of awards; and closing remarks by Public Works Director Tonya Elliott-Moore.

— ANNABELLE SIKES

AWARDS

YEARS OF SERVICE AWARDS

Dorothy Burkhalter (30)

Jennifer Treadwell (10) Chief Dave Ogden (10) Lori Sipek (10) Rick Nunez (five) Reserve Sgt. John Alcalde (five) Chaplain Andy Jones (five) Reserve Officer Jeff Bacigalupi (five)

RETIREMENTS

Reserve Detective John Allen Deputy Chief Jennifer Treadwell Lori Sipek

AWARD OF MERIT

Jennifer Treadwell Sgt. Jeff Czwornog

DISASTER RESPONSE AWARD FOR HURRICANE IAN

Reserve Sgt. John Alcalde Sgt. Jeff Czwornog Officer Camero DeCarlo Officer Griffin Hebel Detective Carlos Hernandez Sgt. Chip Irwin Officer Ryan Miller

Officer Jerrell Ogletree Officer Rich Vnencak Officer Mark Wilson Officer Shadwink Barboza

Town Manager Robert Smith John Fitzgibbon Deputy Chief Jayson Bonk Chief Dave Ogden Public Works Director Tonya Elliott-Moore

Public Works Operations Manager Travis Mathias Caleb Cook Brian Hitchens Rick Nunez Diane Edwards Tara Vegel Theresa Syphers Sea Cadets

CERTIFICATE OF APPRECIATION

Officer Jerrell Ogletree Diane Edwards Tara Vegel Theresa Syphers Chaplain Andy Jones Chaplain Wesley Beacham

OFFICER OF THE YEAR

Reserve Officer Carollee “CJ” Burrell

COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD Officer Mark Wilson

UNIT CITATION — RESERVE UNIT/PRESIDENTIAL AWARD

Reserve Sgt. John Alcalde Officer Carollee “CJ” Burrell Officer Jeff Bacigalupi Officer Patrick Husic Officer Brian Miller Reserve Detective John Allen Retired Lt. Mark DeStefano Chaplain Andy Jones

TOWN MANAGER’S

SPECIAL AWARD Public Works Director Tonya Elliott-Moore

PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR’S SPECIAL AWARD Brian Hichens

COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP AWARDS

Tom Stroup

The Art Room Dr. Diana Greer (Windermere Elementary School)

Bonny Elder Family Church Ellie Lou’s Brews & BBQ Windermere Wine & Dine

The Observer has been an invaluable asset to our approach at staying in front of the most important element in our strategy, which is our community. They have been a solid foundation for which our brand can maintain top-of-mind status.

Deputy Chief Jayson Bonk hosted the first town of Windermere awards and recognition ceremony.

Dorothy Burkhalter was recognized for her 30 years of service with the town.

Tom Stroup was one of seven to receive the Community Partnership award.

Bentley

Ahome in the Bentley Park community in Dr. Phillips topped all West Orange-area residential real-estate transactions from Jan. 14 to 22.

The home at 9326 Bentley Park Circle, Orlando, sold Jan. 20, for $3,150,000. Built in 1997, it has five bedrooms, six-and-onehalf baths and 7,100 square feet of living area. Days on market: 45.

These are the highestselling homes in each community in West Orange.

DR. PHILLIPS

BAY PARK

The home at 5759 Craindale Drive, Orlando, sold Jan. 17, for $625,000. Built in 1992, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,588 square feet of living area. Days on market: 42.

BENTLEY PARK

The home at 9326 Bentley Park Circle, Orlando, sold Jan. 20, for $3,150,000. Built in 1997, it has five bedrooms, six-and-one-half baths and 7,100 square feet of living area. Days on market: 45.

CITRUS CHASE

The home at 8207 Citrus Chase Drive, Orlando, sold Jan. 19, for $300,000. Built in 1983, it has two bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,186 square feet of living area. Days on market: 39.

ESTATES AT PARKSIDE

The home at 8174 Ludington Circle, Orlando, sold Jan. 20, for $1,225,000. Built in 2017, it has six bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths and 4,266 square feet of living area. Days on market: Eight.

SANDY SPRINGS

The home at 7933 Palmdale Drive, Orlando, sold Jan. 17, for $362,500. Built in 1988, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 2,179 square feet of living area. Days on market: Two.

TANGELO PARK

The home at 6920 Mandarin Drive, Orlando, sold Jan. 20, for $240,000. Built in 1961, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,260 square feet of living area. Days on market: 46.

TURNBURY WOODS

The home at 8703 Bay Ridge Blvd., Orlando, sold Jan. 17, for $650,000. Built in 1985, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,804 square feet of living area. Days on market: 109.

GOTHA

PEARL LAKE

The home at 1741 Blackwood Ave., Gotha, sold Jan. 20, for $444,000. Built in 1969, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,895 square feet of living area. Days on market: Nine.

HORIZON WEST

AT OVATION

ENCORE

The home at 13879 Lanyard Way, Winter Garden, sold Jan. 18, for $499,000. Built in 2022, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 1,983 square feet of living area. Days on market: 45.

HICKORY HAMMOCK

The home at 16191 Johns Lake Overlook Drive, Winter Garden, sold Jan. 17, for $1,750,000. Built in 2016, it has seven bedrooms, six baths and 5,131 square feet of living area. Days on market: 34.

INDEPENDENCE/

SIGNATURE LAKES

The home at 6213 Schoolhouse Pond Road, Winter Garden, sold Jan. 2012, for $750,000. Built in 2017, it has five bedrooms, three baths and 3,720 square feet of living area. Days on market: 44.

LAKE REAMS TOWNHOMES

The townhouse at 8615 Danforth Drive, Windermere, sold Jan. 18, for $325,000. Built in 2004, it has two bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,280 square feet of living area. Days on market: Five.

LAKES OF WINDERMERE

The home at 13101 Penshurst Lane, Windermere, sold Jan. 19, for $535,000. Built in 2007, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,948 square feet of living area. Days on market: Eight.

ORCHARD PARK

The home at 13884 Peach Orchard Way, Winter Garden, sold Jan. 19, for $675,000. Built in 2017, it has four bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 3,944 square feet of living area. Days on market: 66.

The home at 4408 Old Sycamore Loop, Winter Garden, sold Jan. 17, for $587,500. Built in 2015, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,218 square feet of living area. Days on market: Six.

The home at 14431 Brushwood Way, Winter Garden, sold Jan. 17, for $580,000. Built in 2017, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 2,466 square feet of living area. Days on market: One.

STOREY GROVE

The townhouse at 14095 Title Way, Winter Garden, sold Jan. 20, for $380,000. Built in 2020, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 1,636 square feet of living area. Days on market: One.

WATERLEIGH

The home at 11135 Bostwick Alley, Winter Garden, sold Jan. 18, for $630,000. Built in 2022, it has four bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 2,489 square feet of living area.

The home at 10225 Meadow Brook Drive, Winter Garden, sold Jan. 17, for $570,000. Built in 2018, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 2,487 square feet of living area. Days on market: 53.

WINDERMERE TRAILS

The home at 9718 Crescendo Ave., Windermere, sold Jan. 20, for $765,000. Built in 2016, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 3,138 square feet of living area. Days on market: 50.

OAKLAND OAKLAND TRAILS

The home at 2441 Standing Rock Circle, Oakland, sold Jan. 18, for $449,990. Built in 2018, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 1,759 square feet of living area. Days on market: 99.

OCOEE MEADOWS

The home at 462 Wurst Road, Ocoee, sold Jan. 19, for $255,000. Built in 1981, it has three bedrooms, one bath and 1,250 square feet of living area. Days on market: 74.

REFLECTIONS

The home at 1705 Sparkling Water Circle, Ocoee, sold Jan. 19, for $405,000. Built in 1995, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,884 square feet of living area. Days on market: 20.

TWIN LAKES MANOR

The home at 1215 Russell Drive, Ocoee, sold Jan. 20, for $290,000. Built in 1980, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 1,187 square feet of living area. Days on market: 15.

WESMERE

The home at 313 Carisbrooke St., Ocoee, sold Jan. 20, for $495,000. Built in 1992, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,241 square feet of living area. Days on market: 21.

WESTYN BAY

The home at 578 Palio Court, Ocoee, sold Jan. 19, for $560,000. Built in 2006, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 3,421 square feet of living area. Days on market: 142.

The townhouse at 436 Scarlatti Court, Ocoee, sold Jan. 17, for $310,000. Built in 2006, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 1,549 square feet of living area. Days on market: 16.

WEST ORANGE

OXFORD MOOR

The home at 5915 Oxford Moor Blvd., Windermere, sold Jan. 17, for $1,675,000. Built in 2011, it has five bedrooms, five-and-one-half baths and 5,867 square feet of living area. Days on market: Seven.

WESTOVER CLUB

The home at 9639 Westover Club Circle, Windermere, sold Jan. 20, for $759,999. Built in 2001, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 3,248 square feet of living area. Days on market: 164.

WINDERMERE RESERVE AT WATERFORD POINTE

The home at 2009 Water Key Drive, Windermere, sold Jan. 19, for $1,225,000. Built in 2001, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 3,395 square feet of living area. Days on market: 91.

WINTER GARDEN ESTATES AT LAKEVIEW PRESERVE

The home at 3190 Sailing Pier Ave., Winter Garden, sold Jan. 16, for $870,000. Built in 2022, it has four bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 3,820 square feet of living area. Days on market: 30.

GLENVIEW ESTATES

The home at 955 Glenview Circle, Winter Garden, sold Jan. 18, for $432,000. Built in 1987, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,524 square feet of living area. Days on market: Seven.

LAKE APOPKA SOUND

The home at 17946 Hither Hills Circle, Winter Garden, sold Jan. 19, for $648,990. Built in 2022, it has five bedrooms, four-andone-half baths and 3,314 square feet of living area. Days on market: 108.

REGAL POINTE

The home at 648 Grand Royal Circle, Winter Garden, sold Jan. 18, for $365,000. Built in 2002, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,854 square feet of living area. Days on market: Six.

STONEYBROOK WEST

The home at 15570 Amberbeam Blvd., Winter Garden, sold Jan. 19, for $635,000. Built in 2003, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,224 square feet of living area. Days on market: Seven.

WATERSIDE AT JOHNS LAKE

The home at 1380 Viscaya Cove Blvd., Winter Garden, sold Jan. 20, for $470,000. Built in 2021, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,030 square feet of living area. Days on market: 32.

WINTER GARDEN

The home at 900 W. Plant St., Winter Garden, sold Jan. 17, for $3.1 million. Built in 1986, it has seven bedrooms, six baths, two half-baths and 7,704 square feet of living area. Days on market: 14.

The home at 9326 Bentley Park Circle, Orlando, sold Jan. 20, for $3,150,000. This custom estate offers views of Lake Tibet Butler and is located in guard-gated Bentley Park in Bay Hill.

realtor.com

The home at 578 Palio Court, Ocoee, sold Jan. 19, for $560,000. It was the largest transaction in Ocoee from Jan. 14 to 22.

realtor.com

The home at 5915 Oxford Moor Blvd., Windermere, sold Jan. 17, for $1,675,000. It was the largest transaction in the Horizon West area from Jan. 14 to 22.

HERE WE GROW AGAIN

W ith 2022 officially in the books and the New Year underway, we at Lake Apopka Natural Gas District (LANGD) are looking forward to the year ahead and the opportunity to build on recent growth. Since 1959, LANGD has provided safe, reliable and cost-effective natural gas to a customer base that has expanded to over 27,000, and we have grown by an incredible 38.5% over the past five years, making us the fourth-fastest growing municipally owned natural gas system in the state of Florida.

None of that would be possible without the tremendous support from our valued customers in Apopka, Clermont, Winter Garden and surrounding areas. In 2022 alone, LANGD welcomed over 1,000 new customers, including some well-known and new commercial brands. Together, our new commercial and residential customers enjoy and rely on the unmatched benefits of natural gas, including its versatility, reliability and cost-saving capabilities.

With so much anticipated growth on the horizon, we’ve recently formed a committee to research these areas of growth and created a Five-Year Strategic Growth Plan to expand our distribution system to meet future development needs within our service territory. This year alone, we expect to extend our system’s infrastructure by more than 12 miles, to serve new customers across our service area.

Our board of directors also unanimously approved a $10.1 million main extension plan, which aims to accommodate Orange and Lake counties’ population growth, development and system improvement, so you know we’re serious when we say we’re expanding!

BAPTIST

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 Baptists Church

EPISCOPAL

Church of the Messiah 241 N. Main St., Winter Garden Services: 8, 9:30, & 11 AM, 4 PM (French & Creole), 7 PM www.ChurchoftheMessiah.com

METHODIST

First United Methodist www.fumcwg.org 125 N. Lakeview Ave., Winter Garden

We are happy to consistently be extending our services to new customers, and when you look at all of the benefits that natural gas has to offer, it becomes clear why so many people want to make the switch.

ANGLICAN

ANGLICAN COMMUNITY FELLOWSHIP CHURCH

Rector The Rev. Canon Tim Trombitas 1146 East Plant St, Winter Garden SUNDAY SERVICE 10:00 AM Find us at: Theacf.net

STARKE LAKE BAPTIST

CHURCH

PO Box 520, 611 W Ave, Ocoee Pastor Jeff Pritchard (407) 656-2351 www.starkelakebaptist.org

METHODIST

FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 125 N. Lakeview Ave Winter Garden Service Times 9:00 AM and 11:15 AM Phone – 407-656-1135 Web: fumcwg.org

W. Colonial Winter Garden 407-654-9661 Fellowship 9:45AM,

BAPTIST

BEULAH BAPTIST

Not only is natural gas costefficient, yielding an average savings of $879 per year; but it is also environmentally friendly. According to a recent article by Blue Flame Alliance , natural gas is the cleanestburning fossil fuel and helps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by emitting 50-60% less carbon dioxide than coal and 30% less than petroleum. It is also delivered underground directly to your home, making it extremely dependable – even during a storm. That’s part of the reason why so many essential services like hospitals, nursing homes and fire stations rely on natural gas to cook meals, keep their water hot and generators running.

Pastor Casey Butner 671 Beulah Rd, Winter Garden 407-656-3342 | BeulahBaptistWG.org SUNDAY BIBLE STUDY 9:30AM SUNDAY SERVICE 11:00AM WEDNESDAY SERVICE 6:00PM

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH

125 E Plant St., Winter Garden 407-656-2352 SUNDAYS 8:30 am Traditional 9:45 am Bible Study 11:00 am Contemporary WEDNESDAYS - 6pm - Awana Pastor Tim Grosshans www.fbcwg.org 2nd Campus: FOUNDATION WORSHIP SUNDAYS 9:45 am - All Ages Foundation Academy High School 15304 Tilden Rd., Winter Garden www.FoundationWorship.com 407-730-1867

Appliances that operate from the direct use of natural gas are also up to three times as efficient as electric ones. This uninterrupted delivery of energy to your home is not only more efficient, but also reduces carbon emissions and saves you money.

With so many customers switching to natural gas to fill their daily needs, we want to make sure we are expanding to meet those needs, so we can continue to provide outstanding and reliable service for years to come.

District offices are located at 1320 Winter Garden-Vineland Road, Winter Garden; 38 N. Park Avenue, Apopka; and, 676 W. Montrose Street, Clermont.

CHURCH OF GOD

OCOEE CHURCH OF GOD Pastor Thomas Odom 1105 N. Lakewood Avenue, Ocoee 407-656-8011

EPISCOPAL CHURCH OF THE MESSIAH 241 N. Main, Winter Garden Services: 8, 9:30, & 11am, 7pm www.churchofthemessiah.com

UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST WINDERMERE UNION CHURCH 10710 Park Ridge-Gotha Rd. Windermere, FL 34786 407-876-2112 Worship times: 9:00am Adult Sunday School 10:00am Worship www.windermereunion.org

visit www.langd.org for more information on natural gas service for your home, business or vehicle. Be sure to “like,” “follow” and “share” LANGD’s content on Facebook and LinkedIn.

HIGH 5 TOTAL DOMINATION

1The Windermere High School varsity cheer team was crowned champions at the Metro West Conference, while the Horizon High varsity cheer squad came in as the conference runner-up Wednesday, Jan. 18. The other participating teams at the Metro West Conference included Olympia, Edgewater, Wekiva, West Orange, Apopka, Lake Buena Vista, Ocoee and Dr. Phillips.

2The Dr. Phillips girls basketball team has a current 21-1 overall season record, a 1-0 district record and a 14-game winning streak.

The Lady Panthers defeated Lake Highland Prep 80-64 Wednesday, Jan. 18, and hosted Mainland for a home, non-district, game at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 24, after press time.

3

The Olympia High School boys varsity basketball team defeated the West Orange Warriors 84-63 during a non-district game Friday, Jan. 20. The Titans have 20 wins this season and currently are on a 10-game winning streak. Cam Miles led the team with 19 points during the game against the Warriors, while Sean Owens added 17 points.

The Titans hosted Edgewater for a non-district game at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 25, after press time.

STAFF WRITER

With its third consecutive undefeated regular season, the Windermere High School JV boys soccer team continues to impress and rewrite the Wolverine history book.

4

Foundation Academy junior basketball player Jacob Crain scored the 1000th point of his high school career during the game against Orangewood Christian Friday, Jan. 20.

“Being undefeated is more about connecting with your players,” head JV soccer coach Douglas Hernandez said. “You don’t (get to be) undefeated by yourself. You get to be undefeated with a group — a family. A family works together all the time; I work like a father for (my players).”

Hernandez has been the head JV coach for the boys soccer team since the program’s inception in 2018 and is the only coach from that first year who still remains a member of the Wolverines family.

5

The Central Florida Christian Academy boys varsity basketball team defeated The Villages Charter at the Buffalo’s territory 74-69 Friday, Jan. 20. The Eagles had a four-game winning streak before their game against Victory Christian Academy Saturday, Jan. 21.

“It’s a good accomplishment as a coach, not losing one game in all those years,” Hernandez said. “I know that one day we are going to lose, but I am going to try to continue my legacy and not lose.”

For freshman and center man Caden Scramoncin, 15, this season

MUJICA STAFF WRITER

The Dr. Phillips Little League — along with Orange County Parks and Recreation — will host a groundbreaking ceremony for the DPLL future complex at 9:30 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 26.

“We are very excited,” Dr. Phillips Little League President Nomi Ansari said. “We’ve been working with the county for quite some time on the move — at least for the past five years.”

The new complex will sit on 16.06 acres and will feature four grass fields: one dedicated softball field, two smaller baseball fields — to accommodate games for the 12-and-under division — and one

big baseball field to accommodate games for the 13- to 16-year-old division. The complex also will feature a concession stand and restrooms.

One of the biggest improvements the new complex will offer is lighting on all four fields.

“Right now, our softball field doesn’t (have lights),” Ansari said. “So, this will help our softball program to play on-site during evening and night games, which will be very helpful.”

The new complex will be located near the corner of Buenavista Woods Boulevard and Bissell Street.

“The location is in a part of town that has a lot of new development,” Ansari said. “It is walking distance to several restaurants, it’s right next to Lake Buena Vista High School and a new middle school, so the location offers a lot of benefits to those who

league.”

According to Matt Suedmeyer, Orange County Parks and Recre -

Legacy Charter’s Javier Perez is a leader on the Eagles’ soccer team. Page 2B.

ANDREA

take part in the little

You have to go back to a different world — pre-COVID — to find the last time the Windermere High JV boys soccer team lost a match. The Wolverines just completed their third consecutive undefeated regular season.

Thursday’s ceremony will mark the beginning of a project that’s been in the works for about five years.

ANDREA MUJICA

Andrea Mujica

Head JV soccer coach Douglas Hernandez leans on his support system every season: his wife, Marilia; the school’s staff; his players; and the parents.

Javier Perez

Tell us about your team.

I don’t know what it was, but ever since the new year, our team really just clicked on a different level.

How have you contributed to your team?

I think my main contribution is from a leadership aspect. There’s two seniors on the team, including myself, but I play the majority of the time, so I’m always trying to lead our team. Where that comes from is mainly just through the communication aspect, as well as keeping our whole team’s heads in the game.

Tell us about your years as a soccer player.

I started off at the YMCA when I was 5 years old. When I was around 9 or 10 years old, my parents tried to get me into other sports, but soccer just always felt right to me.

What do you love most about soccer as a sport?

I’ve really taken pride in the whole leadership aspect. Growing up, I was never a captain, but the past few years, I have been for both club and high school. I guess taking a pride of being able to lead a team in whole has really helped me wanting to continue playing.

What do you believe soccer has taught you not only on the field but also outside of it?

Outside of the field, I guess just how to work with others from multiple angles. I’ve had players on my team — both club and high school — (who don’t take communication the same way as others do), so I guess catering to certain people.

Do you have a favorite drill to do at practice?

Shooting drills, because I feel like that’s the worst part of my game, personally. So, whenever I am doing a shooting drill, I feel like that’s when I get to work most on myself.

THE BASICS

What’s your favorite hobby?

Bowling and anything Lego related. … I just like the process of building (the Legos). Once I’m done building them, I don’t touch them anymore.

What do you like to do on the weekends?

That’s typically when I get my college work done. But, when I do have free time, I like to spend the weekend with my friends.

What’s your favorite movie?

“Interstellar” or “Inception.”

Both are deep movies and really make you think.

Who is your favorite superhero?

Doctor Strange — I guess just his whole magic aspect. He’s unique from the rest.

If you could have a superpower, what would it be and why?

Probably teleportation, just because you could get rid of that whole time management.

What are three places you’d like to visit? Why?

Costa Rica. I’ve already been there before, but every time I go there is a 10-out-of-10 travel experience. Mexico, I went there when I was younger, but I don’t really remember it. It was a cruise vacation and I was too young to remember anything. Probably where my dad grew up in Texas, because he’s told me a lot of stories.

Which one would you choose: Instagram, BeReal or TikTok? Instagram. BeReal is too new, and TikTok probably does more bad than good … because of how much I hear people sitting in front of it for hours.

What color would you say represents your personality?

I wear a whole lot of white, but I would not say that represents me. I’ve always been attracted to the color blue. But I guess I kind of enjoy being a more relaxed

Where do you want to go to University of Central Florida — it’s where I’m set up right now. I’ve applied, and I’ve been admitted. But it wasn’t always that way, I started off wanting to go to the University of South Florida, but after contemplating the pros and cons as far as travel expenses, (I decided) to go to UCF.

What would you like to study? I would like to get a degree in biology to then get into (physician assistant) school.

If you could be an animal for a day, which one would you be? A panda. I have thought about this before. All the videos you see, they look so friendly with the other pandas, and they look like

Mental game bolsters JV soccer

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1B

was one to remember.

“Next season, whether I play JV or varsity, I want to keep another undefeated year,” he said. “I want to keep the streak going. It was really cool being part of an undefeated team.”

Part of the secret for the Wolverines’ success all these years has been the mentality component Hernandez has implemented in the Wolverines’ play style.

“It’s different when you coach club (than) when you coach high school,” he said. “In club, it depends on which level you get assigned to. In high school, everybody has a chance (to play), but I create the same mentality I had in Brazil when I was playing there. You earn your play time if you demonstrate your effort in

practice. Then you are guaranteed your place in the game. If you are late to practice, then you have less play time. It’s merit-based.”

Scrimmaging against the varsity team also proved successful for the Wolverines this year, because it allowed the players more time on the field against more experienced, older opponents.

“(That helped us) learn how to play against older kids during trainings,” Scramoncin said. “Coach (Hernandez) always says keep practice intense, and we always kind of have a battle for our positioning for the next game, because we always tried to keep our position (on the field).”

Before every practice, Hernandez addresses his players and talks about what practice will consist of, lays out his expectations and conducts one-on-ones with his

players to work on the psychological aspect and check in to see how they are feeling.

Hernandez believes in having his players work on the passing drill; he expects them to understand how to properly execute passing the ball during the games.

“I want my team always dominating the passing drill and then go to the game,” he said. “I don’t have anything to hide from anyone, because soccer is like everybody sees it when you play it. My game is exposed.”

For freshman striker Luiz Romualdo, 15, this year provided him an opportunity to get more play time and to play in a formation with which he was unfamiliar.

“It was really hard to make the team, but it was great,” he said. “I started being a bench player, and then took my place as a starter.”

Over the years, the Wolverines have had different opponents that have left a mark on the team. However, the team approaches each game with a win mentality and presses on until the last second of the match.

“Each game is a different story, and we need to (adapt) to play under any circumstances and situations,” Hernandez said.

Every time the team experiences a tough game, Hernandez is able to bring back his players to concentrate on their play and to give their all on the field.

“I talk about the social media with them; I tell them that they are (there) to play soccer, not to fight, not to retaliate but to get a (winning) results, because I know (they) carry a huge responsibility to stay undefeated,” Hernandez said. “To be undefeated is not everything. You can tie the game. … But, If you do much more, you would feel much better if you win this game. … I get everybody together and say, ‘Now is our time. Whatever it is, you guys will move forward from it. I know you guys and I know you will win this game.’”

The key behind Hernandez’s philosophy for his players is to always use the soccer ball to let out frustrations, demonstrate their abilities and show what the team is able to do as one.

“(We always) respond inside the field — not in social media, no fighting — only with the ball,” he said. “We can only resolve what is happening inside the sidelines here. … I am very strict on that. If people talk and one of my players talk back, that person will be out of the team.”

DPLL excited about new home

ation Division Manager, the “four acres next to the OCPS property were already designated as a park. The additional acres were acquired through a partnership with OCPS.”

The league is looking forward to the new facility, because it will provide a better experience for its players and their families.

“We absolutely want to maximize this opportunity,” Ansari said. “Our program has seen exponential growth since COVID, so we plan to demonstrate and provide the best Little League program in all of Florida — and bring great quality baseball, softball and T-ball — and make it a place where they community can come and enjoy wonderful games.”

There will be two access points for the complex — one off Buena Vista Woods Boulevard and a second off Bissell Street.

The estimated date for completion is late spring 2023, and the funds for the project came from the Orange County General Fund

and the park impact fees.

“Our hope and goal is to host some of those little league tournaments (that are hosted during the summer) there —some of which are district-wide, and sometimes Central Florida-wide,” Ansari said.

LEAVING THE OLD COMPLEX

Despite the excitement behind having a new facility built especially for them, the league has mixed feelings about leaving its old home at 8100 Wallace Road.

“It’s a little sad,” Ansari said.

“We’ve been at the current location for almost four decades — since the mid-1980s. But, it’s also exciting because we are moving into a facility that’s brand new.”

The league had been leasing the property from the Dr. Phillips Charities foundation. However, a few years ago, the foundation decided it wanted to repurpose the property. Instead of asking the league to look for another facility, the foundation helped it ease into conversations with Orange County to see if the county could help —

and provide the Little League — a new place to play.

“It’s kind of a sensitive area to be honest,” Ansari said. “I’m not familiar with what they decided to do with the property, if they want to use it for commercial or residential. … But, the (foundation) approached the county, so the county stepped in and helped us find another field.”

Legacy Charter senior and boys varsity soccer team captain Javier Perez has led the Eagles as the team captain during his senior year and is looking forward to finishing the season on a high note. Perez has scored five goals as a center-defensive mid this season.

Courtesy

Every game, head coach Douglas Hernandez addresses his players to plant the win-type mentality that has led to the team’s success over the years.

Wolverines, Hawks battle to a tie

ANDREA MUJICA STAFF WRITER

What probably was the most expected — and anticipated — game of the season for both the Windermere Wolverines and the Horizon Hawks boys varsity soccer teams ended with no goals on a 0-0 tie Tuesday, Jan. 17.

Horizon (10-3-4) did not lost a single game at its home field this season, and head soccer coach Brad Duerksen was excited that was still the case at the end of the game.

“I was extremely pleased by how hard we played,” he said. “We weren’t perfect by any means, we

created quite a few opportunities in the second half where it could’ve gone either way at certain times.

The ending score came up with the penalty save by (goalkeeper Daniel Case Melo Porto), so I’m glad that he was able to make that save. I’m very proud of how hard they played.”

The Wolverines ended their regular season with a 10-1-2 record, losing their undefeated score to Ocoee.

“The passions of this game made it very difficult for us to come in and play like we typically play,” Windermere head soccer coach Alvin Alexander said. “I think we played (well), but we’ve typically scored three or four goals in every

OBITUARIES

HERNANDEZ DIED JAN. 16, 2023.

Rebecca Margaret Hernandez, 65, of Ocoee, Florida, lost her battle with Alzheimer’s disease on Jan. 16, 2023. She was born in Sebring, Florida, on Nov. 10, 1957, to A.W. “Spizz” and Doris Pollard.

She was a 1975 graduate of Sebring High School. She worked most of her life in the banking industry in Sebring and the Ocoee/Winter Garden area. She retired from Contemporary Construction Specialist LLC in Winter Park in 2013.

She is survived by her loving children, Rina and Nicholas Hernandez and stepson Hugo Jr., with their dad, Hugo Hernandez; her longtime love, Ronnie Cooper, and his sons, Daniel and Joshua (Savanna); brother, Roy (Lori) Pollard; sisters, DeDe (Jim) Mims and Angie (John R.) Carter; and many

loving cousins, nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her mom and dad, Doris and “Spizz,” and namesake aunt, Margaret Pollard.

Funeral arrangements by DeGusipe Funeral Home & Crematory: The viewing was from 10 to 10:55 a.m. Jan. 22, 2023; the service was from 11 a.m. to noon; and the reception was from noon to 2 p.m., all at DeGusipe Funeral Home, Ocoee Chapel.

game. … (Horizon ) played well tonight, and well enough to tie (the game) up.”

A tough offensive and defensive battle on both sides, the Hawks and the Wolverines had a couple of opportunities to score during the game, but neither team was successful.

“I know they wanted this game really badly,” Duerksen said. “We haven’t lost on our home field all season and we wanted to keep it that way. It was nice to keep a zero on our end, … (and) I thought both teams played really well.”

Horizon won its final game of the regular season 3-0 Friday, Jan. 20, at Mulberry. Windermere dropped its final game of the regular season — a 1-0 loss — Friday, Jan. 20, to Ocoee.

REBECCA MARGARET

Andrea Mujica

Jhonny Mujica Photography

Andrea Mujica

INFLUENCER OF THE

Taise Camargo is an English language learner paraprofessional at Panther Lake Elementary. Camargo provides staff support in bilingual communication, works with kids providing basic instruction in reading and spelling, translates to parents, helps with student communication, and more. Principal Christine Szymanski said while Camargo works with students who speak a variety of languages, she does have a special connection with the Portuguese students as this is her native language. “She works really hard to ensure our students and families feel comfortable at school while they are learning English and adjusting to a new culture,” Szymanski said.

What brought you to your school?

After being a stay-at-home mom, I continued working toward my degree to where I could help others. After graduating, my son was old enough to start school, and I wanted to rejoin the workforce. I found a position here at Panther Lake Elementary, where I could help others, much like others helped me when I moved to the United States.

What do you love most about your school?

I enjoy seeing the impact that I make with not only the children I work with but also their families and my fellow co-workers. The kids always smile and say, “Good morning,” to me as we pass each other in the halls.

What is your motivation?

I would have to say my family is my motivation. They have all been so supportive in everything I do. I try to bring this same support to my workplace.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

The kids! When I find a way to gain their trust and help them through a hard situation, it relates to me and how I would want someone to be there to look out for my own child.

REPORT CARD

POSITION: English language learner paraprofessional TIME AT SCHOOL: Three months TIME AT OCPS: One year

What do you like to do in your spare time?

Spend time with my family doing things around the house, exploring new cooking recipes to try or a quick weekend getaway.

Who was your favorite teacher when you were in school?

I didn’t really have a favorite teacher. The people (who) had the most impact were the support staff. Why? I felt the support staff had that advantage to work oneon-one with me. I wasn’t just one of the students in a class.

When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up? I always wanted to be a doctor. Why? I wanted to help people. It was only after I started down that

path I was able to find a different way I could help others.

What is your favorite children’s book and why?

“The Little Prince.” This book is full of life lessons.

What are your hobbies?

I like to travel, create new projects on my Cricut and hunt for deals.

If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?

Teleportation. If I could teleport I could visit anywhere or anyone in the blink of an eye.

If you could only listen to three bands or artists for the rest of your life, what would they be and why?

Dave Matthews Band, Maroon 5 and Coldplay. They don’t have just one style, always something for every mood.

What was your go-to lunch as an elementary student? Any favorite snacks or special treats you remember?

Coxinha — these are from Brazil. Closest compared to chicken croquettes.

What is your favorite holiday and why?

Christmas. Lights, decoration and family togetherness.

Who was your best friend when you were in school and why? Are you still in touch?

Nathalia. No, we lost touch over the years.

— ANNABELLE SIKES

OBSERVER SCHOOL ZONE

Water Spring completes Disney races

AMY QUESINBERRY COMMUNITY EDITOR

Eleven teachers at Water Spring Elementary School laced up their running shoes after months of preparation for the Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend.

Kelly Bua, Stephanie Fraunberger, Amanda Harper, Erin Heitzman, Lindsay Johns, Karen Lane, Heather Neuman, Andrea Silva, Robert Snodgrass, Krista Steele and Christine Van Lue all participated. For some, it was the first time, and for others, it was the chance to add a medal to their collection.

Harper and Fraunberger, who train together, ran the 5K, 10K and half marathon during the weekend, totaling 22.4 miles over three days. It was their sixth weekend participating in RunDisney events and their 12th RunDisney race.

The running duo even has a RunDisney Instagram, @mandyandstephrunwithmagic.

The two ran their first RunDisney race for Wine and Dine Weekend in 2021. When they realized other Water Spring teachers were running it, they started the school tradition that anyone who runs in any of the races during a race weekend would meet in the lobby the following school day to take a photo wearing their race shirts and medals and celebrate their accomplishments.

“We really feel this has brought people together at school by sharing our love for RunDisney with each other,” Harper said. “It has

really helped people across different grade levels and positions feel part of a community. This marathon weekend was very exciting, because for some staff members it was their first RunDisney event. Stephanie Fraunberger and I run every race together, but for this 10K, Krista Steele joined us. It was so much fun being part of her first race experience.”

Harper and Fraunberger will be running the 5K, 10K and half marathon for Princess Weekend in February. Once they complete this Fairytale Challenge, they will receive a fourth medal. They also plan to run the Springtime Surprise weekend in April, and completing all three races will earn them a fourth medal.

Steele said she is not a big fan of running, but one of her goals from last year was to exercise more, so she accepted the challenge of the 10K.

“I was really pleased with my time, (because) I had never done a race like this before and kept up a good enough pace to avoid the bal-

loon ladies and not get swept,” she said. “The 2:30 a.m. call time was not fun, but seeing everyone ready for the race and their throwback outfits gave me a boost of energy and adrenaline.”

Steele has plans to sign up for the 5K and 10K and, maybe, the half marathon, at Disney’s Wine and Dine in November.

Heitzman has been running Disney challenges since 2015. Her next half marathon is in late February, and she has numerous Disney races scheduled: the Enchanted 10K, Princess Half Marathon and the Toy Story 10-miler during the Springtime Surprise race weekend in April.

Snodgrass decided to tackle a marathon after participating in a 5K, 10K, 10-miler and half marathon, all with RunDisney.

“RunDisney events are always a magical experience,” he said. “I allowed myself to stop to meet characters and take in all the entertainment Disney provides during races.”

Neuman has run many halves and

triathlons before, but never a full marathon.

“I decided to give it a try to see if I could,” she said. “My daughter met me on Main Street to cheer me on; it was the best hug ever. At mile 20, when I hit the wall during training, my daughter and best friend were constantly texting me encouragement until the end. I still get emotional over it when I think about it.”

For veteran runner Van Lue, who has been running consistently since 2009, this was her 29th half marathon; she also has run three full ones. Her son also ran the half, and when he was struggling with ankle pain, the two met up around mile 6 and walked most of the rest of the route.

“The time with him was more special and important than the time on the clock,” Van Lue said. “Running Disney is like no other. I have done many half marathons, but nothing compares to running down Main Street and through the castle at the crack of dawn.”

The Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend offers runners a chance to participate in races of various lengths, from 5K to 26.2 miles.

Participating in the Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend were: front, Robert Snodgrass, left, Kelly Bua, Andrea Silva, Karen Lane and Heather Neuman; and back, Christine Van Lue, left, Stephanie Fraunberger, Amanda Harper, Erin Heitzman, Krista Steele and Lindsay Johns.

Courtesy photo

Christ School’s dyslexic program earns accreditation

About 20 families participating in The Bridge program at The Christ School come from the West Orange and Southwest Orange communities.

THE BRIDGE

n GRADES: Second through sixth. Next year, the program will expand to include first grade.

n TUITION: $24,804 (one-time payment); $25,486 (multiple payments)

n ASSISTANCE: The Bridge accepts the Florida Empowerment Scholarship and The McKay Scholarship and has its own school voucher, as well as its own financial assistance process.

TEACHER LEVELS

n Orton-Gillingham Classroom Educator Level: Qualified to apply OGA approach principles to provide literacy instruction in small groups

n Associate Level: Qualified to provide 1:1 instruction under mentorship of an Academy Fellow

n Certified Level: Independent practitioner who is qualified to teach and tutor individuals and small groups by implementing the OGA approach

n Fellow Level: Independent practitioners qualified to train and supervise other educators in within the OGA approach. These are qualified for individual lessons.

ANDREA MUJICA STAFF WRITER

Three years since its inception, The Christ School’s The Bridge program received its Orton-Gillingham Academy accreditation to continue providing education to students in Central Florida with dyslexia.

“From the very beginning, we looked at what the (OGA) accreditation guidelines were, so we could get there, and we could be successful in getting it,” Alissa Plaisance, director of The Bridge and Student Support, said.

According to the Orton-Gillingham Academy website, “The OrtonGillingham Approach is a research based approach, and has been used for many decades to successfully provide literacy remediation to students of all ages.”

This approach is used to help students with dyslexic better grasp the skills in the areas of reading, writing and spelling. It utilizes the various components that constitute the English language.

“For us, we teach the why of the spelling of words and why (words) are read the way they are,” Plaisance said. “Then we teach the students how to decode the words, the different syllable types and how to crack the code. … Then, we assess the students on those skills, so they are not just memorizing a bunch of words.”

Not only do the teachers provide the students with distinct skills so their brains can properly read the words but they also teach them math in a specific way.

“Math is introduced in a concrete way (as multi-sensory math),” Plaisance said. “There are manipulative ways to bring that concept to life and connect it to a representational level and, eventually, the paper-pencil abstract.”

THE BRIDGE

Together with Head of School Aaron Farrant, Plaisance worked toward implementing a program that provides dyslexic students a safe and efficient learning environment.

“He asked about where students with dyslexia go to school here (when he first got to the school five years ago),” Plaisance said. “We got into a wonderful conversation about the landscape of Central Florida, and we knew that we had certain families here who were doing tutoring after school, working with different therapists and piecing it all together. We really felt that there could be a better way.”

Thus, The Bridge was born. For its first two years, the program existed as a pull-out program before transitioning into a full-time offering.

At the beginning, the program only had four students. Now, there are 70 students enrolled, and more families reaching out to inquire about the program. Of those 70 students, 20 live in the Windermere, Winter Garden, Horizon West and Ocoee areas.

There is a ratio of 1:10 per classroom — except during the OGA hour, when students are separated into their breakout rooms and are in a 1:5 ratio. The intensity of this programs offers

WHAT IS DYSLEXIA?

According to the Orton-Gillingham Academy website, the word dyslexics comes from the Greek words “Dys” and “Lex.”

Dys means “difficulty with,” and “lex” derives from a longer word “Legein” which means “to speak,” relating to words.

Words are found in the practices of listening, speaking, reading, spelling, writing, mathematics, and even in the way they are organized, understood and in how thoughts are expressed.

Based on neuroscientific and linguistic research then, the definition of dyslexia can be summarized as “difficulty in the use and processing of arbitrary linguistic/ symbol codes,” according to the website. This can be either in the form of spoken language, written language and even in the process of language comprehension.

Dyslexic individuals often find themselves struggling to master the basic elements of the language system of their culture despite having a traditional classroom teaching.

an hour of OGA a day to provide repetition to the students.

“The students are taught by different teachers (other than their homeroom teacher) who are specialized in whether it’s OGA reading or multisensory math,” Plaisance said. “We do phonological awareness drills, visual drills, reviewing words, go over our red words (irregular words that don’t follow a particular pattern) and introduce new material. We do that for a chunk of the lesson, and then we focus on a spelling piece and dictation for sounds, words, phrases and sentences and then, toward the end, we work on some oral reading as well.”

Teachers use a tactic called scoping sequence, which helps them determine students’ individual skill levels.

“It starts from the most basic vowel-consonant sound — Can the child read? Can they spell?” Plaisance said. “Then, that scoping sequence goes into all the way to Greek and Latin, much more rare words inner English language, so it does take quite a while to go through the scoping sequence. On average, to really provide that mediation, it takes anywhere from three to four years.”

The Bridge closely follows advice from Anna Gillingham: “You go as fast as you can but as slow as you need.” This creates a steady mindset for its students even when they leave the program.

Currently the program spans from second to sixth grades. Next year, it will begin in the first grade.

“We help them developing their schedules, making recommendation of classes and looking into accommodations the school can provide — like if they need extra time, using speech to text, keyboarding instead of handwriting for some kids or having a spot in the classroom that works well for them,” Plaisance said. “Those types of things (helps us and the student) create a student academic plan that transitions with them to their next school.”

The program also offers opportunities for parents fellowship and community engagement so families are able to connect and become a part of The Bridge community.

Coyotes dedicate school

AMY QUESINBERRY COMMUNITY EDITOR

The Hamlin Middle School gymnasium was a sea of purple and full of excitement as the school celebrated its first-year dedication Friday, Jan. 20, with all of the students plus officials from the school, Orange County Public Schools and Orange County Government. The ceremony included music, speeches and the cutting of a long purple ribbon.

Dr. Suzanne Knight told those in attendance that being principal of the Hamlin Middle and getting to open a new school “has been one of the most rewarding and exciting experiences of my 35-plus years in education and one that I am so very grateful for. … My vision for Hamlin

is to provide a safe learning environment for all students … and to make sure we are an extension and a reflection of our community that lead our students to success.”

Orange County School Board Chair Teresa Jacobs spoke as well: “As rad as your school is, it’s not the bricks and mortar, it’s not the ceilings and the floor, it’s not all the wonderful resources that are here that make it so special. It’s all of you. It’s all of your teachers … and your principal, Dr. Knight.”

The students and parents also heard from Dr. Maria Vazquez, OCPS superintendent, who said Hamlin Middle is an incredible facility.

“All of this was done for you because this community believes so much in the power of education,”

Vazquez said. “There is nothing like opening a new school … not everyone gets that opportunity. Every student, every teacher, every staff member, you are turning the rooms, the hallways, all the buildings into a home under the leadership of your amazing principal, Dr. Knight.”

Vazquez presented a box holding a special key to Knight and said it was the “key to unlocking the future and vision of these students. May this key always remind you and those who follow you of this very special first year.”

The school’s choral and band students performed, and three students — sixth-grader Skylar Hernandez, seventh-grader Victor Senese and eighth-grader Jaylynne Riker — gave short speeches on their experience at HMS.

After the ceremony, a congratulatory cake was served in the media center.

Courtesy photo

Multi-sensory math teacher, Meggen Breen, utilizes manipulatives to give a concrete understanding of place value.

Above: Eighth-grader Jaylynne Riker shared her Hamlin Middle School experience.

Below: OCPS Superintendent Dr. Maria Vazquez presented a special key to Hamlin Middle Principal Dr. Suzanne Knight.

Dr. Suzanne Knight, OCPS officials and a gymnasium full of students celebrated the first year of Hamlin Middle School.

OCPS Superintendent Dr. Maria Vazquez, West Orange High School Principal Matt Turner and Orange County Commissioner Nicole Wilson attended the dedication.

70 years ago

While Coach Ted Wiedenbeck led his Lakeview High School basketball team to a victory over Eustis, his wife, Marian, gave birth to their third child, Steve, in West Orange Memorial Hospital. Steve’s birth was announced at halftime of the basketball game.

55 years ago

The first Thistle Class sailboat racing contest, organized by Jimmy McKey, was held on Lake Apopka on a perfect day except for one thing — no wind.

45 years ago

The Ocoee Woman’s Club held its 54th birthday luncheon. Models Miriam Reid, Robbie Stallard, Carol Hornsby, Rena Rhodes and Janet Crozier presented a fashion show from The Outlook in Ocoee. Lee Roy Hester Jr., of Gainesville, acquired the W.T. Zeigler Furniture Store on Dillard Street in Winter Garden.

A sign to West Orange High School directed people to the offthe-beaten-path high school. The sign was erected in front of the Winter Garden Lumber Co. by the WOHS DECA Club.

40 years ago

Attending the sixth annual Breakfast Career Education Specialists at Sea World were West Orange High Principal Tony Krapf and occupational specialist Linda Lockert; Gene Gossett and director Frank House, of Westside Vo-Tech; and Millie Cobb and Principal Bob Williams, of Ocoee Junior High School.

Craig Maloy and Jerry Carrier experienced an ill-fated fishing expedition in the middle of Lake Apopka and ended up swimming a mile, fully clothed, in water in the low 60s.

FROM THE ARCHIVES

Local residents prepared for the Fifth West Orange Communities Sing, a performance sponsored by the West Orange Ministerial Association and area churches. They performed Jan. 29, 1979, at the First United Methodist in Winter Garden.

Singers included Jimmy McKey, Harriette Grimes and Frances McKey, fifth, sixth and eighth persons in the front row; and Carol Knighton, Donna Halquist, Dink Butler, Roy Fulmer, Larry Grimes and Barbara Fulmer, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth and eighth persons in the back row. To identify any of the singers, call the Winter Garden Heritage Foundation at (407) 656-3244 or post directly to the WGHF Facebook page.

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

Ocoee’s new postmaster, Ron Herrington, said he was happy to be back “home.”

20 years ago

How will Windermere look in 20 years? The town held workshops and a charette to gauge residents’ wants for the town in the next two decades. The approaches to the town from the north, south and east looked like rural country highways that

invited drivers into Windermere, according to a planning firm hired by the town. By narrowing the roads and adding curbs and brick sections and roundabouts to slow traffic, they predicted many drivers would choose a different route, which was what residents seemed to want. The town’s shopping area also was a hot-button issue, and some residents envisioned a small deli, restaurant, ice cream shop and town park.

The city of Winter Garden began its yearlong celebration of its 100th anniversary with a historyinspired event at Tanner Hall.

The town of Oakland and Orange County Public Schools, in partnership with Chancellor Beacon Academies Inc., broke ground on a new elementary school to be named Oakland Avenue Charter School. Oakland Mayor Jon VanderLey spearheaded the charter school project.

JAN. 31, 1947

Elsie the Cow has been the popular mascot and “spokescow” for Borden Dairy Company since 1936. Folks attending the 1947 Florida State Fair in Tampa had the chance to meet Elsie; the opportunity was advertised in the Jan. 31, 1947, issue of The West Orange News

The ad read: “Elsie, whose bovine beauty and moovelous charm have made her the nation’s glamour cow, is coming to the Florida State Fair. She will arrive in Tampa aboard her deluxe ‘Creamliner’ in time for opening day. Renowned radio personality, star of the silver screen and hostesses to more than 10 million people in her many personal appearances, Elsie is the greatest cow-sonality of all time. Be sure to see her in her boudoir in the Flower Building. Elsie is counting on her many Florida fans and friends to visit her.”

By Luis Campos

West Orange Chamber of Commerce Celebrates Business

West Orange Chamber of Commerce celebrates the grand opening of The Dolly Llama

The West Orange Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors celebrated the grand opening of The Dolly Llama. Located at 3279 Daniels Rd, Ste 106 in Winter Garden Village, the Dolly Llama is a specialty Belgian Waffles and Ice Cream store with crafted recipes and build-your-own options to choose from regular and vegan offerings. They serve variety of tasty menu items ranging from ice creams, bubble waffles, OG Liege waffles, shakes and more.

To learn more, visit https://thedollyllamaus.com.

West Orange Chamber of Commerce celebrates the 50-year anniversary of Community Health CentersWinter Garden

The West Orange Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors celebrated the 50-year anniversary of Community Health Centers - Winter Garden. Located at 13275 W Colonial Dr in Winter Garden, Community Health Centers, Inc., (CHC) provides quality and compassionate primary healthcare services to insured, uninsured, underinsured and underserved children and adults within Central Florida. To learn more, visit http://www.chcfl.org.

West Orange Chamber of Commerce celebrates the grand opening of Muse Multimedia Agency

The West Orange Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors celebrated the grand opening of Muse Multimedia Agency. Located at 1220 Winter Garden Vineland Rd in Winter Garden, Muse is a full service multimedia marketing agency that helps business owners and entrepreneurs use social media, digital and print marketing as well as television and radio advertisements to find, connect and convert audiences into followers, clients and customers.

To learn more, visit https://www.museagency.net/.

West Orange Chamber of Commerce celebrates the grand opening of Quick Mobile Repair

The West Orange Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors celebrated the grand opening of Quick Mobile Repair. Located at 8991 W Colonial Dr in Ocoee, Quick Mobile Repair is a locally owned and operated device repair shop that has become one of America’s fastest-growing companies in its sector. With more than a dozen locations nationwide since its founding in 2012, QMR specializes in fast and affordable smartphone, tablet, computer and gaming console repair solutions for individuals and B2B customers alike.

To learn more, visit http://www.quickmobilerepair.com.

To learn more and to register for participation visit wochamber.com/ChamberGroups or call 407-656-1304

The West Orange Chamber recognizes and applauds our long-standing member businesses for their continued commitment to Advancing Community, Collaboration and Leadership.