02.09.23 Southwest Orange Observer

Stephen Facella and Daxon Fischer are bringing the community together

Crooked Can brews Lake County project

he said. “Those going to the theme parks and resorts already know our brand because it’s sold there.”

QUESINBERRY COMMUNITY EDITOR

Andy Sheeter created a popular brewery in Winter Garden nearly a decade ago, and he now is embarking on a new venture that will add a Crooked Can destination brewery in Lake County.

The Lake County craft brewery, which does not yet have a name, will sit on three acres and feature a 40,000-square-foot facility with a much larger production area plus a tap room, beer garden, flex lawn space, food hall similar to the Plant Street Market and headquarters space.

The Lake County Crooked Can will operate in a high-visibility area, Sheeter said.

“We’re right off the (Florida’s) Turnpike, so when visitors from out-of-town come in … the signage is right there, so they’ll see the sign,”

In 2014, Sheeter founded the Crooked Can Brewing Company, an 11,000-square-foot craft brewery that anchors the Plant Street Market in downtown Winter Garden. It has been so successful that it is at capacity for production and patron space, he said.

There are no plans to close or move the Winter Garden location, Sheeter said. This will serve as a second Central Florida location. A third brewery is located near Columbus, Ohio.

“This is going to be what we call a destination brewery, and I think one thing that’s important to know is this is a complement to the brewery in Winter Garden,” Sheeter said. “The brewery itself will have a much bigger production area because we’re out of capacity. It’s going to have a tap room. It will be set up better for corporate events.”

The outdoor beer garden will sit on one-acre and serve as an extension to the indoor area. The one-acre flex space will be available for concerts, receptions and other outdoor gatherings.

“We would envision us doing a lot more special events in this particular spot,” Sheeter said. “This will give us the flexibility if a business wanted to come in and do a corporate (pro-

gram). It’s a great area for kids to run around and have fun when it’s not being used.”

This space also allows the brewery to hold larger community events such as Oktoberfest or the Celtic Festival without having to get permission from the city to close off adjacent streets.

Sheeter acknowledges he won’t initially fill the entire 40,000 square feet.

“We won’t be able to utilize all the space up front, but five years from

now we want to be able to utilize it,” he said.

The brewery will be part of the Hills of Minneola development going in near the new turnpike exit at Hancock Road. Skorman Development is in charge of the project.

Work on the Lake County brewery likely will begin in 2024, Sheeter said. He currently is going through the necessary steps for permitting and architectural drawings.

Courtesy

This rendering depicts what the Minneola Crooked Can might look like.

Andy Sheeter, founder of the Winter Garden brewery, is making plans to open a 40,000-square-foot destination brewery in Minneola.

The Ocoee City Commission may face some key changes after the 2023 regional elections, scheduled for March 14. Three seats are up for election — mayor, District 1 (see Page 6) and District 3 (see page 7).

The Woman’s Club of Ocoee will host two political forums. The first, featuring the candidates

CHRIS ADKINS

A 46-year-old Florida native born in Winter Park, Chris Adkins spent his life moving around in the counties of Orange and Seminole and sometimes, Eustis — where he helped out on a chicken farm by grabbing eggs, bailing hay and learning about hard work. Adkins’ parents married young and were together for less than a year, so he found himself often with his grandparents, who he said taught him honesty, respect and integrity.

With a background in multi-store sales, operations management corporate auditing and growth for Genesco from the mid-1990s through 2006, Adkins realized all the hours he spent traveling started to take their toll. So, he and his wife, Cori, opened a small property management company that was later adapted — after the recession — to include corporate housing. The Adkinses have two children — Nash, 21, and Jett, 18.

How did you find your way to Ocoee?

When I found out my wife (Cori) was expecting, I was the area manager for Central Florida. So, Ocoee was a place that was helpful to move around for work. It was also a place were my father’s side of the family lived. So at 23 years old, I bought us our first home in Historic Brentwood Heights.

Why are you running for the mayor seat?

I am (very) aware of the fact Ocoee has the highest millage (tax) rate in Orange County to comparable cities. It has for more than a decade, and in addition, (it’s) something that really frustrates me. Our city adopted non ad-valorem fees as well — first starting with a firefighters fee. Now having (three) fees totaling more than $400 (added/ in addition to your taxes), that go into the general fund. Not even for what they say, then distributed throughout the budget. (Even) being used as collateral to secure the bond we received in October 2017.

(The) efficient, productive, and accountable use of funds is where I’m disappointed. The city management and leadership has misled the taxpayers and citizens of Ocoee. … I’m running to get us back on track, accountable, transparent and most of all stop what I consider waste.

What is your vision for the city?

We need to hold developers accountable or make better decisions on who we work with. As a city, we need to grow but not at warp speed, full of apartments while neglecting so much of our city. Sidewalks, resurfacing and expansion of our main infrastructure arteries has to keep pace. I will be sure to see exactly were we stand on these issues.

How do you differ from the other candidates?

At the end of the day, I am just a family man who cares about where I live. … I don’t own a bunch of properties or real estate. I don’t have developer friends or agreements with anyone but the taxpayers. It’s simple: I’m not a politician. I have a skill set that can help my city and no vested interest financially.

My opponents are both seasoned politicians. Mayor (Rusty) Johnson has held office in Ocoee for nearly 40 years. … George Oliver is a Super PACfunded commissioner (who) just won re-election recently. So, I’m not sure why he is running, (because) he has two years still left holding office on his current term. His move cost taxpayers a significant amount of money.

for districts 1 and 3, will take place from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 15. The second will feature the mayoral candidates from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 16. Both forums will take place at City Hall, 1 N. Bluford Ave., Ocoee. For more information about the forums, call Cathy Sills, (407) 810-0290.

RUSTY JOHNSON

(INCUMBENT)

Ocoee Mayor Rusty Johnson moved to Ocoee when he was 11 years old. Johnson graduated from Ocoee High School prior to attending Valencia College and Florida Technological University — which later became the University of Central Florida. Johnson is a U.S. Army Vietnam veteran and a retired U.S. Postal Service worker. He and his wife, Marilyn, have been married for 48 years and have five children and 11 grandchildren.

How did you find your way to Ocoee?

Several members of my mother’s family moved to Florida from South Carolina. They encouraged my parents to follow them, and we moved first to Oakland and then to Ocoee in 1956.

Why are you seeking another term as mayor?

I want to continue with our conservative budgeting and continue cutting property taxes. I want to continue prioritizing public safety by properly funding (the) police and fire (departments). I want to continue expanding recreation facilities for our children and families. I want to ensure the city makes improvements to infrastructure, including sidewalks and roads.

What is your vision for the city?

A city that is safe, healthy and vibrant. (I would like to) provide a safe place for people to live, work and visit; provide diverse recreational and cultural amenities that support healthy and joyful lifestyles and give residents a sense of community; develop and maintain city-owned infrastructure, parks and facilities that enhance our quality of life and the charm of our community; (and) deliver an efficient and effective city government that is both fiscally responsible and transparent.

What changes would you like to see in the city?

The city is in excellent financial health, and we are growing and slowly lowering our millage rate. My platform has always been to improve our economy so we could reduce reliance on residential taxation to pay for services. We need to increase our emphasis on quality-of-life issues. If you watched our budget meetings, you see that I am pushing to improve sidewalks and streets around town, and I am proud we are opening three new recreational amenities this year: Unity Park, Wellness Park and a new skate park at Central Park.

I would also like to increase emphasis on community engagement. One of my most memorable experiences was on the downtown master-planning process and the great turnout from citizens in the process. Moving forward, I would like to have quarterly community meetings to discuss upcoming projects and issues with citizens as we enter our next phase of growth.

As we grow, we need to create the types of places that people want, with opportunities to go to restaurants, shop, be entertained, have access to fitness, health and wellness, and not lose our identity.

How do you differ from the other candidates?

While we all probably feel like we want what’s best for the city, I am very different from my opponents. Holding office is a privilege and should be a product of one’s desire to serve their community. This is not a glamorous job, and we should not be in our jobs for the money. A major difference I see between myself and opponents who have made it clear is that they feel officials in a small city should receive big pay.

The election will be held Tuesday, March 14, with early voting taking place March 6 to 10. The polling location for precincts OC06 and OC09 is the Jim Beech Recreation Center, 1820 A.D. Mims Road; for OC07, the Ocoee Lakeshore Center, 125 N. Lakeshore Drive; and for OC08, the Ocoee Fire Station No. 39, 2515 Maguire Road.

GEORGE OLIVER III

Commissioner George Oliver

III is the first African American commissioner elected to the District 4 seat. Born in Tarpon Springs and raised in Atlanta, Georgia, Oliver has been an Ocoee resident for more than 20 years.

How did you find your way to Ocoee?

I was transferring from my job from Jacksonville to Orange County. My wife is originally from Orange County so we were coming back to Orlando. We were in Orlando for a couple of years, and as we started to look for places to stay, we … found ourselves in Ocoee, and we found (that) was the place we wanted to call home and moved here with our kids in 2002. … The city slogan was really captivating, it was “The Center of Good Living,” and I really loved that. … It had a lot to do with my upbringing, I was exposed to a lot of civil rights leaders as I grew up in Atlanta … and these were people who I found influential in my life.

Why are you running for the mayor seat?

Well, being a commissioner for almost five years now, I’ve had the opportunity to watch how we operate and to see some of the things we do as we take on projects, I’ve seen those things very well. I’ve also seen some things in the city that kind of give me pause as far as how we operate, how we make decisions, changes of some projects and things of that nature, and I’ve sat there and I’ve made my voice vocal a lot about some of these things and accountability, but they seem to have fallen on deaf ears in a lot of instances. So with that being said, the other only thing to do have more influence in the change is a thing of this level, and that is running for mayor.

Accountability is the first thing, I called for an operational audit when I first got here on the city commission. … I asked for the audit when I got there, and I was told it was never done. …

So I started to look for a comprehensive plan for the city, and there were no strategic goals, meaning that we had no mission and no vision. That really took me aback. … We should be writing every decision that we make, every project, to mitigate some of the risk when it comes to projects.

What is your vision for the city?

MEET THE CANDIDATES Ocoee mayoral candidates

The first thing I would do would be implement an operational audit. Beyond that, I would also bring an operational company to engage the citizens of Ocoee in a process where we can come up with a mission and a vision for our city. We’ll also have surveys that will go out, as well as direct phone calls and direct conversations with the citizens to help us get a mission and a vision for the city and a strategic plan. How do you differ from the other candidates?

It goes back to what I say about accountability and strategic planning. I don’t think the other two candidates have considered some of these things. I can say that the current mayor, I’ve never hear him talk about strategic planning. I’ve never heard him speak about a mission and a vision for the city. I’ve never heard him speak on the accountability in terms of the operational audit, we are definitely two different candidates in terms of that.

As it pertains to Chris Adkins, (he) and I stand forward on accountability, and we have had many conversations about that, so I can say we are definitely the same when it comes to that. But I don’t think Chris has come up with a plan as such, nor do I think the current mayor has come up with a plan ... so I have my high points in my plan … and it drills down into how we are going to achieve these goals.

Local music scene heats up at Playa

ANNABELLE SIKES

NEWS EDITOR

Music has the power to bring people together like no other art form.

Playa Pizza owner Stephen Facella and local musician Benjamin Neil are partnering to use the universal language to host a new event called “Fortune Finds,” a weekly songwriters showcase and open jam in Horizon West.

With the help of Neil’s co-host, Daxon Fischer, two of the three members of the local band If I’m Lucky are using their musical production background and passion for people to offer a platform for local artists to exhibit their talent in a comfortable setting.

The goal? To bring the community together through the art that has always done it best — music.

“We make music for people, and we make music because of people,” Neil said. “Not only the people that are part of the music community, but also the people that consume music. People that find a connection in music. If I can write a song or do something that brings people together, then I want to do that. There’s never enough music in my life. Anything I can do to make more music, participate in more music and share more music with more people is where I’m going to go.”

MUSICAL MAGIC

Facella first connected with Neil when Neil reached out over social media to introduce himself in early 2022.

The sign had just gone up on the Playa Pizza building during construction which read “live music” across the front.

When Facella learned Neil was a local musician who lived across the street from the restaurant, he invited Neil for a tour of the construction site. They’ve been friends ever since.

“I showed him the vision about how we wanted to have live music and highlight the talent in the community,” Facella said. “We wanted the place to be like a community gathering area or a community hangout.”

Facella said he believes there is an immense amount of talent in the area but artists don’t always have the opportunity to shine due to the large number of chains in the area who typically do not have open mics.

“We want to be that local hangout place where anyone can come and feel welcome, accepted and encouraged,” he said.

ATTEND THE EVENT

When: 8:30 p.m. every Friday

Where: Playa Pizza, 13211 Reams Road, Suite 108 More information: fortunehouseoffice@gmail.com

With more than 10 years in the event production and music scene industry, Neil provided the perfect perspective to bring to the table what Facella was searching for.

Neil shared he had hopes of making a showcase of original music in the area that was accessible for everyone from professionals to people who are just getting into songwriting or music. He said Playa Pizza seemed to be the perfect location because it was a beautiful space with a laidback feel.

“It was just really cool to hear of a local business owner that was so aligned with me and wanting to get music out there, especially sharing original music since I feel like that’s something more rare in Orlando for businesses to take a chance on,” Neil said. “We want to be able to use whatever small amount of influence or platform that we have to highlight other talent that’s here. One of the things we talk a lot about with each other is ‘a rising tide lifts all boats,’ so if we can use any kind of exposure we get to help bring someone else up with us then we’re going to do that.”

Through the band’s production company, Fortune House Productions, Neil and Fischer have hosted a handful of the events already and experienced an overwhelming turnout.

The first night the event was hosted in January, and it lasted more than five hours.

Fortune Finds is sectioned off into two separate slots. The first slot, which kicks off at 9 p.m., is filled with local artists the production company finds that have an established professional background. Artists that have performed so far in the slot include Mammoth & Chicken, Kaleia, About Tuesday, East Owls, Original Issue, Raspberry Pie and Fabiola Rivera.

The open jam slot of the event begins around 11 p.m. and continues until the end of the night. This section requires no sign up and offers the opportunity for who to sing or play a musical instrument. Instruments and back up are even provided for those that need assistance. Neil said his other goal besides

providing a platform is empowering artists.

“It’s really just an effort to bring the scene to the music community here together,” he said. “There’s nothing better than musicians supporting musicians.”

SUPPORTING LOCAL BUSINESS

Facella said one thing he learned during the pandemic was how fragile and interconnected the local economy is.

“There are so many chains in our area that employ people but don’t build community and their profits leave the area,” he said. “We are trying to keep our money as local as possible to stimulate our local economy. We really go out of our way to support local crafts, local businesses, local entertainers and artists.”

A testament to this concept is the beer served at the restaurant. There are 16 taps — and a beer cannot be on the tap unless it is brewed in Florida. For example, Cigar City, although based out of Tampa, is owned by a company in Colorado, so it’s not allowed on the tap.

While most of the restaurants in the Hamlin area of Horizon West are chains, Playa Pizza is a locally created brand.

“I live a mile from the restaurant,” Facella explained. “We have spent almost $1.7 million a mile from our house, our kids go to school here, we employ people from here, we buy products from Florida, the vendors we deal with are here, and we try and focus as much as we can on being hyperlocal. That’s our business philosophy.”

The restaurant’s vibe, interior and atmosphere are that of a beach, and Facella said he thought the perfect way to bring the relaxation and comfort aspect to attendees was through music.

“So far, the raw talent has been simply amazing,” he said. “We had an older guy who saw us online and wanted to play the drums. He came in and played an original song. Turns out he’s an immigrant from Egypt with 29,000 followers on Instagram, but he has nowhere around here that he gets to show off his talent.”

In the future, Facella said he would like the restaurant to be known as an engaged and giving community establishment.

“We want to use our profits for good and to build the community, to reinvest our community, so whether that means more locations here in our community where we’re able to do the same thing in other parts of

“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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ABOUT PLAYA PIZZA

Playa Pizza, which opened in the summer of 2022, is a 4,000-square-foot restaurant in Horizon West situated within eyesight of Cinderella Castle, across the street from Magic Kingdom Cast Member Parking and Disney University. Playa Pizza features New York-style pizza with specialty pies, a fun twist on Italian and American classics, and a full bar with 16 local craft beers on tap. The center point of the restaurant is an award-winning pizza oven, which is the first and only of its kind in the United States. All of the restaurant’s pizza and pasta dough is made in-house exclusively using the New York Watermaker. The water replication system mimics the mineral composition of New York City with technology that allows guests to experience authentic pizzas. In addition, visitors can see the dough being freshly made before their eyes in the “on-stage” pasta, dough and bread room.

Orlando, or whether it’s just this one location and we’re doing some awesome things in the schools, or we’re providing just a place for people to get a job and feel good about themselves and move on as they build our community in different aspects of their talents, we just want to be a place where people get their start and come here and feel comfortable,” he said.

As part of that goal, Playa Pizza recently has started to put together a 501(c)(3) organization called The Full Belly Fund by running a food pantry out of the restaurant.

“The place was a year late from opening, and while that was very frustrating and absolutely destroying when it comes to emotion and finances, we had an opportunity to help that kind of fell on us,” Facella said.

After noticing people walking from the apartment complexes next door, which are income-restricted and subsidized apartments, to the Mobile gas station to get snacks, Facella asked a passing gentleman what he was doing, who replied he was going to get food.

“It dawned on me that we are in a food desert,” he said. “No sidewalks, no public transit and three miles from the nearest grocery store. These people are using their food stamps to feed their families out of a gas station. We have groceries needed for the restaurant are delivered here every week so we decided why not run a grocery store out of Playa Pizza for those who are buying with EBT.”

EBT is the state agency’s method by which the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, which formerly used food stamps, benefits are distributed to families and individuals.

Playa Pizza has already received a $7,500 donation from Hormel Foods and now is waiting for the United States Department of Agriculture to sign off so it can turn on the EBT machine for people to come.

“We want to try to make this a nationwide movement,” Facella said. “We want to do good to get good.”

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Annabelle Sikes

Three members of Raspberry Pie took over the stage for a groovy showcase.

Pam Gould resigns from Shepherd’s Hope

AMY QUESINBERRY COMMUNITY EDITOR

Pam Gould spent four years as president and CEO helping the health care nonprofit Shepherd’s Hope grow in the West Orange County community. But she said it’s time to make a career change and shift her focus so she can make a larger impact in the community and with students through public service work.

Gould’s last day with Shepherd’s Hope was Jan. 31.

“Pam’s leadership has been instrumental to guiding Shepherd’s Hope through the challenges the pandemic presented the last several years,” Shepherd’s Hope Board Chair John Miller said in a prepared statement.

“I feel good about where I’m leaving things,” Gould said. “When I came in, we had 24 staff, and now there’s 37 positions. We’ve grown the revenue to match that increase in budget. We’re able to move in and bring in new technologies like telehealth and building capacity. I feel great about where they are.”

BUILDING HOPE

In March 2019, Gould arrived at Shepherd’s Hope to a vacant seat, no development person on staff and a nearly finished building that was behind in its construction schedule. And then the pandemic hit.

She said Dr. Bill Barnes, the organization’s founder, told her she was meant to be with Shepherd’s Hope during the global crisis to help solidify the nonprofit’s next chapter in the community.

During her time with Shepherd’s Hope, Gould reached many goals.

“I’m really proud of the team we’ve built,” she said. “I’m proud that we didn’t have to lay off anyone during COVID. I’m proud that we were able to bring additional services to build capacity and access.”

During Gould’s tenure, Shepherd’s Hope secured the first multimillion dollar endowment through Healthy West Orange and another million dollar commitment, so the organization is financially sound, she said.

She said she will continue to support Shepherd’s Hope.

“I feel like I’m walking alongside now, not walking in the lead,” she said.

“In addition to the work and how proud I am of Shepherd’s Hope, I am very committed to our community at large and the work I’ve done on the School Board,” she said.

Gould has a long career history in West Orange County and worked for organizations

including Orlando Health and Health Central; she worked on the School Nurse Program; she served as president of the Health Central Foundation; she has worked in marketing and human resources; and she has worked with the Garden Theatre, Winter Garden Heritage Foundation, the town of Oakland, Dave’s House and Florida Virtual School.

“I think all the experiences I’ve been able to have in the larger businesses … down to the smaller businesses, have given me a vantage point of the horizon and how it all connects together,” Gould said.

MATCHING STUDENTS WITH CAREERS

Gould believes in bringing together private, public and grassroots entities for partnerships that match students with potential career paths. School is about more than money and infrastructure, she said.

“If you’re not exposed to a lot of hands-on experiences while you’re learning the academic reading, writing, arithmetic, you’re lost when you graduate,” she said. “You might have a path to college but not a path to a career. If people understand what your gifts are, it helps to match you with (the right career). The more we can provide that for our students, the more successful they’ll be.”

Gould wants to create strategies and policies that will have a generational effect on the community. One way to fulfill that goal is by connecting businesses with students through apprenticeships and philanthropy. Another is through a DirectConnect program, which partners local high schools and professionals in careers such as construction and the culinary arts.

FINDING THE TEACHING MOMENTS

“I do think my (experiences) … have been all teaching moments in really understanding the horizon of our community,” Gould said. “I look forward to continuing to work in service and hopefully shape the community for generations to come.”

The Shepherd’s Hope board now is searching for a permanent president. Barnes will serve as interim CEO. He founded Shepherd’s Hope 25 years ago, and the first health center was opened at Orange Technical Center – Westside.

Other changes are coming to Shepherd’s Hope. Barnes said there will be a rebranding for the nonprofit in the next year. The name will be changed to Shepherd’s Health to better reflect the health services provided by the nonprofit; however, he stressed, there will be no changes in the services delivered.

The organization provides free health care access for the uninsured through urgent and specialty care and connecting to ongoing care. It provides services in West Orange from its Winter Garden headquarters at 455 Ninth St.

Amy Quesinberry

Pam Gould is proud of her four-year service to Shepherd’s Hope and knows she is leaving the nonprofit in a good position for continued success.

The president and CEO has left her position to concentrate on a different path in public service.

HOPE BELLAMY

A nonprofit and for-profit business owner, Hope Bellamy has been serving the community for more than 20 years.

Bellamy is the founder of Zigs Nation Digital Network and oversees the ZAPZ Academy. He holds a certification in senior assisted living and business analytics.

Why are you running for the District 1 seat?

I am an Ocoee resident. Ocoee has come a long way. … The residents today are not the residents of yesterday, so diversity is needed on a same level. Right now … with George Oliver running for mayor and Mr. Larry (Brinson) stepping down — it leaves those two seats vacant that once did have diversity … and I think Ocoee needs to have diversity as the people as a whole. The mayor is doing a wonderful job, he works across the board, but we still need diversity in order to move things accordingly.

What is your vision for the city?

I come from the lifestyle of a criminal. I got my rights back, and over the last 20 years, I have been doing community outreach, nonprofit, youthprograms. So I bring a lot to the table that normally elected officials don’t bring. A lot of times, they come two, three years down the line before the election and jump on boards and committees and all the good stuff prior to the election years. … Mine dates back

20 years, and I never wanted to go into politics on the level of a seat, but I see that Ocoee can be a pilot city for all the small cities. Ocoee can definitely move in that direction; it just needs some work — make it more user friendly. So there’s a lot that needs to be done, and I feel I’m the most experienced to getting it done.

What changes would you bring to the city?

Diversity is No. 1. Ocoee has a mix of African-Americans, Caucasians, Indians, Mexicans. But when you go to the city level, you don’t have the diversity to understand their language. … So I think we are not inclusive to everybody that resides here in Ocoee. My District 1 is getting a lot of apartments, buildings and homes, and the community was not addressed properly about this. … So, one of the things I want to do is, when developers do come into the city, that the community can actually voice their opinion. Another thing is an open-door policy where citizens can come up to the commissioners and talk to them not only at City Hall but also (in) the community.

How do you differ from the other candidate?

The fact that I was on the other side of the fence. I was there. I came from the low income; I came from the barely ate, I’ve been there. So what makes me different is that I’ve lived that, and I know how to get over that rope. I can relate better to the community as a whole, because I am one of them; I am part of them. … We’ve got to start grooming younger individuals to get into politics. … So we can have younger individuals to get on this board.

SCOTT KENNEDY

A 54-year-old native Floridian, Scott Kennedy has been a resident of the city of Ocoee for 18 years. Kennedy holds a bachelor’s degree in technical management and a master’s degree from Keller Graduate School of Management. Kennedy spent his youth doing volunteer work as part of the Royal Memoirs, with which he was awarded a gold medal of achievement. He serves as the HOA president at Forestbrooke Community Owners’ Association and is a member of the Human Relations Diversity Board.

How did you find your way to Ocoee?

I was born in Melbourne, so I am a native. My parents moved to Orlando, Orange County, when I was a baby, and I lived in Northwest Orange County my whole life. I went to Evans High School. I grew up in the Pine Hills area, and when I got married, my wife and I were saving for our first home. We found a spot we liked here in Ocoee, and we moved here.

Why are you running for the District 1 seat?

I’ve seen the issues and suffered the issues, and I’m running to be an advocate dedicated to that district. (I am) devoted to the issues that affect that district rather than broader state issues, county issues. I am running to be an advocate for the district where I live.

What is your vision for the city?

One of the issues I’m running on is a vision issue. That is, as we grow, I want to see balanced growth that maintains the character of Ocoee. This is our home; we are Ocoee. We are not Windermere. We are not Winter Garden. We are not Apopka. And I think what residents want — certainly residents in my district want — is they want to grow, but they don’t want to see the character of Ocoee change by that growth.

What changes would you bring to the city?

The issues I’m running on are the traffic and the congestion. I think we need to solve those. I think we need to advocate the money from the county to the city and then give it into our district. We have some roads that need to be widened. We have some roads that need more lighting — they are dangerous and congested — and as I said, managing the growth in a balanced way. Also, I want to see the budget and the funding for projects reflect the priorities of the district. Public safety is a huge issue in our district. We have some really bad accidents and fatalities, and I think people should be able to go out and enjoy the city, drive around, walk around with their kids and not get hit by speeding cars and things like that.

How do you differ from the other candidate?

So, I know absolutely nothing about the other candidate. I’ve never met him; I don’t know anything about him. I’m not running to run against another candidate. I have issues on the platform that I am running on, and that’s what I’m going to do.

Ocoee District 3 candidates

RICHARD FIRSTNER (INCUMBENT)

District 3 Commissioner Richard Firstner has worked for the city the past 28 years — since 1995 — when he was offered the position of assistant fire chief. He retired from the department in 2009 and has served 35 years in public service. Firstner ran for the District 3 Commissioner seat for the first time in 2016. He has lived in Wesmere since 2010.

How did you find your way to Ocoee?

My career in the fire service has taken me from Daytona Beach to the Kennedy Space Center and then to the Florida Fire College in Ocala.

When offered the opportunity to work in Ocoee, I jumped at the chance to return home to Central Florida.

Under my administration, I prepared the Ocoee Fire Department to achieve Advanced Life Support (paramedic) delivery and transport, an ISO rating of No. 1 and national accreditation. I am proud of the way the fire department has developed into a premier fire

and rescue delivery service in the state.

Why are you running for re-election?

We, as a commission, have accomplished great things moving the city into the future. We have increased the number of homes, businesses and jobs in the city, all while holding the line on costs and taxes to the residents. We have lowered the millage rate each year for the past seven years in a row.

(I want to) see the many projects that we have already started to completion. The Community Redevelopment Agency has plans to rejuvenate the State Road 50 corridor, the coming of the City Center project and the prospect of welcoming a youth sports complex are a few of the projects I would like to complete. We are already well underway with the Downtown Redevelopment project with the new City Hall, Lakeshore Center and Unity Park.

How do you differ from the other candidates?

I am proud to represent my friends and neighbors of District 3 with whom I have lived and worked every day, and will continue to serve them, listen to their concerns, answer their questions and work in their best interests.

SHANTE MUNNS

MEET THE CANDIDATES Ocoee District 1 candidates

A native of Orange County born and raised in Orlando, Shante Munns is a small-business owner who understands the challenges small businesses face within the communities in which they operate. Munns volunteers at the IAAMS nonprofit organization, which helps conduct community outreach projects throughout the Central Florida area.

How did you find your way to Ocoee?

I’m no stranger to Ocoee. I have family and friends who have lived here for years. I recently moved to Ocoee to help care for a family member.

Why are you running for the District 3 seat?

I want to establish a better quality of life for the citizens of Ocoee by improving air and water quality, bringing sustainable growth with improved infrastructure, and communication. To move Ocoee in the proper direction, we need leaders that connect to all Ocoee residents year around, not just election season.

What is your vision for the city?

(I would like to bring) economic development and sustainable growth, ensuring the residents have the essential resources and services throughout the community as needed, promoting

and engaging with businesses that will benefit the community of Ocoee, accommodating sustainable growth by effectively creating roadways and having developers contribute to share costs, ensuring the representation of diversity and unity is displayed equally, protecting our environment, holding individuals and companies accountable for the disposal of contaminated or hazardous materials, and protecting our air and water quality by conducting tests more frequently.

What changes would you bring to the city?

I would like to bring more community resources and neighborhood programs to the city, while implementing seminars focusing on community services and essential resources. More importantly, we need to establish better lines of communication between our city, our residents and business owners by addressing concerns in a timely manner. My goal and perspective for change would include leadership taking responsibility for their actions and showing the city of Ocoee that we are unified as one.

How do you differ from the incumbent?

As a candidate, I can engage with people from all walks of life, making it easier for residents to relate. My experiences of working with various communities is a blueprint for positive change in Ocoee ensuring the residence of District 3 will have the zealous representation that they deserve.

High schools on display at WGHF

HISTORY EXHIBITION

AMY QUESINBERRY COMMUNITY EDITOR

Before West Orange High School offered educational opportunities to local students starting in 1976, the school bell rang at two other Winter Garden high schools: Lakeview and Drew.

Lakeview High was on the west side of the city, and Charles R. Drew High was located in the predominantly black east side of Winter Garden.

An exhibition at the Winter Garden Heritage Museum showcases photographs, artifacts and other memorabilia saved from those school days, dating back from their inception to the days of segregation to the day when all students in Winter Garden could attend classes together.

“While the history of Lakeview High School has always been featured prominently at the Winter Garden Heritage Museum, thanks to items shared recently by members of the African-American community, we are able to highlight aspects of life at Drew High School,” Jim Crescitelli, WGHF director, said. “Rhonda Massey Steib recently shared photos and archived items that we are able to present in the exhibit.”

Education in east Winter Garden was scarce and underfunded in the early part of the 20th century. It improved vastly once William and Juanita Maxey arrived from Jacksonville and committed themselves to providing quality education to the city’s black children.

Both schools boasted successful

“Lakeview and Drew High Schools: A History” is on display at the Winter Garden Heritage Museum, 1 N. Main St., through Feb. 28. The museum is open from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, and admission is free.

The Winter Garden Heritage Foundation does not have many photos of the old Drew High School and is looking for images the community might have. To donate or have photos scanned, call WGHF at (407) 656-3244.

football teams through the years. Orange County Public Schools fully integrated its white and black student bodies in the 1969-70 school year when all Drew students transferred to Lakeview High in Winter Garden and the neighboring Ocoee High School. Five years later, the local high schools would merge again when West Orange High was built in Winter Garden.

The heritage foundation takes a look back at Winter Garden’s two former high schools, Lakeview and Drew.

Courtesy of Winter Garden Heritage Foundation Memorabilia from Winter Garden’s two former high schools are on display.

HAPCO brings music to Ocoee

ANDREA MUJICA STAFF WRITER

The HAPCO Foundation hosted a free concert in the city of Ocoee Saturday, Feb. 4, at the Ocoee Lakeshore Center.

Attendees enjoyed a cool breeze during the chilly night and a variation of jazz repertoires from the Ocoee High School Band Program and the University of Central Florida’s Flying Horse Big Band — which performed under the direction of Jeff Rupert. Jazz vocalist LeNard Rutledge performed alongside the UCF Knights during the performance.

Among the highlights of the evening was HAPCO founder and Oakland Commissioner Joseph McMullen’s presentation to Ocoee Mayor Rusty Johnson, who received the 2023 Ambassador of the Year Award.

“Rusty has been an avid advocate for HAPCO’s programs provid-

ing student musicians free education programs and live performance opportunities in our community for years,” McMullen said. “He has supported our annual Winter Jazz Band Clinic and our Summer Camp hosted for local middle and high school bands at Ocoee High School. He is working to bring quality entertain-

ment to the city of Ocoee for the community.

“HAPCO is honored to be able to contribute to this endeavor, showcasing bands like UCF’s The Flying Horse Big Band, the Ocoee High School Jazz Band and the Orlando Youth Orchestra,” McMullen said. “Rusty helps instill in young people

Oakland honors history at 2023 Heritage Day

Art, woodworking, fudge, spices, jewelry, kitchen products, candles and other specialty items were among the merchandise and food for sale at Oakland Heritage Day, held Saturday, 28, in historic downtown Oakland. About 100 vendors participated in the day, which celebrated the town’s history.

The day began with Westly’s Sixth Annual Virtual 5K at 9 a.m. and continued the celebration of the town’s charm, unique history, nature, wellness and the arts with

live music, food trucks, fine arts and crafts, vendors, interactive children’s activities, and more.

An exhibition at the Healthy West Orange Arts and Heritage Center spotlighted art recognizing Black History Month.

The Oakland Nature Preserve sponsored Historic Florida, which featured blacksmiths, animal ambassadors and a silent auction benefitting the preserve. Gatorland brought live alligators, snakes and exotic reptile encounters.

— AMY QUESINBERRY

a passion for excellence in all facets of their lives.”

“What a great night,” Johnson said. “This is what we want to do out here, … This is something a wonderful feeling to you when you have this and listen to this music. … As long as I’m around … Joseph will always be the No. 1 man for me to help. … This is

one of the good things we are going to be doing from now on.”

While the jazz concert unfolded, the HAPCO Uncorked! Event took place. Those with purchased admission had myriad options of food to taste created under the supervision of HAPCO Culinary Chef Anthony Fotherfill.

Musician Kelly Jarrard wowed the crowd with her instrument and vocal skills.

Alex Middleton, holding a ball python, reacted to a comment made by the Gatorland representative.

Musician Kelly Jarrard wowed the crowd with her instrument and vocal skills

Jazz vocalist LeNard Rutledge, saxophonist Najee, UCF Band Director Jeff Rupert and HAPCO founder Joseph McMullen.

The Ocoee High Jazz Ensemble performed a few tunes.

SPORTS

1Foundation Academy celebrated the college commitment of three varsity players as the school hosted a ceremony for them to sign their National Letters of Intent Wednesday, Feb. 1. Sam Zagame committed to play football at the United States Military Academy at West Point, Edward Byrd committed to play football at Southeastern University and Mason Williams committed to swim at Louisiana State University. Horizon High School also celebrated a National Letter of Intent signing day Wednesday, Feb. 1. The Hawks saw two players sign letters to play their respective sports at the collegiate level. Daniel Case Melo Porto committed to play football at the College of the Holy Cross, while Santiago Izaguirre committed to play volleyball at Emmanuel College.

2

The Windermere High School cheer team became the 2023 FHSAA Class 2A small varsity competitive cheer state champions Saturday, Feb. 4. The Wolverines competed against Durant (Plant City), Nease (Ponte Vedra), Tate (Cantonment), Park Vista (Lake Worth), Timber Creek (Orlando), Land O Lakes, George Steinbrenner (Lutz) and Wiregrass Ranch (Wesley Chapel).

3

The Foundation Academy cheerleading varsity squad participated as defending champions in the FHSAA Class 1A state championship Saturday, Feb. 4, where the Lady Lions became back-toback champions in the Large Non-Tumbling category.

4

The Legacy Charter girls varsity basketball team became the 2023 FHSAA Class 2A, District 8 champion for the first time in school history. The Lady Eagles brought home the first district championship title in every sport after defeating City of Life Christian Academy 52-33 Friday, Feb. 3.

The First Academy girls varsity basketball team became the 2023 FHSAA Class 3A, District 6 champions for the first time in six years after defeating Windermere Prep 52-43 during the district championship game Friday, Feb. 3.

5

Pitch perfection

The Foundation Academy girls soccer team, the Horizon High boys soccer team, the West Orange High boys soccer team and the Windermere High boys soccer team all became district champions and advanced to regional play this week. Despite some loses, other prep soccer teams in the area also advanced to the regional brackets and are still in the pursuit of a regional — and possibly state — championship title.

FOUNDATION ACADEMY

BOYS

Despite their 2-1 loss against Faith Christian Tuesday, Jan. 31, the Foundation Academy boys soccer team is still part of the group of teams battling for a Class 2A, District 6, Region 2 championship.

The Lions were set to play Circle Christian (9-5-1) at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 8, after press time, during one of the regional quarterfinal games. The winner of this game will either face Pine High School or Master’s Academy during the

Three West Orange- and Southwest Orange-area teams were crowned district champions last week. Now, their quests on the pitch continue in regional play.

regional semifinal at 7 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 11.

GIRLS

The Foundation girls varsity soccer team (12-4) became the Class 2A, District 6 champion after defeating Orangewood Christian 3-1 during the district championship game

Thursday, Feb. 2, at Orangewood Christian.

“(I’m) proud of our girls and all they have done and are yet to do,” head soccer coach James Grosshans said. “The win was really just affirmation on how hard the ladies have been working and how talented our ladies are. The win really

came down to (them) digging in and fighting until the final whistle.”

With this win, the Lady Lions brought home the second district championship title in its history.

“It shows how much the program has improved from where it

SEE DISTRICT PAGE 2B

Prep basketball teams reach postseason play

ANDREA MUJICA STAFF WRITER

For some prep basketball teams in the West Orange and Southwest Orange areas, the 2022 season has not yet come to an end. A number of teams have become district champions, advancing to regional play, while other teams are still in the pursuit of a district championship title or even waiting to find out who their opponents will be.

CENTRAL FLORIDA

CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

GIRLS

The CFCA girls varsity basketball team has an 18-7 overall season re-

cord and a 1-0 district record.

As the No. 1 seed in Class 2A, District 7 — despite their loss against Faith Christian 66-59 during the district championship game — the Lady Eagles are set to face Legacy Charter at 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 9, at Legacy Charter.

Both schools will face each other in what could be called a “Battle of the Eagles” during one of the Region 2 quarterfinal games to see which of the two Eagles will make it to the regional semifinal.

DR. PHILLIPS GIRLS

The Dr. Phillips High School girls varsity basketball team became the

2023 FSHAA Class 7A, District 5 champions after defeating Oak Ridge 64-53 Friday, Feb. 3. With an 18-game winning streak and a 25-1 overall season record, the Lady Panthers are set to host Harmony High School (16-4) at 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 9, during one of the Region 2 quarterfinal games.

FOUNDATION ACADEMY BOYS

The Foundation Academy boys varsity basketball team advanced to postseason play after defeating Liberty High School 94-60 during a home, non-district game Thursday, Feb. 2.

Windermere junior wrestler Lucas Drone is a two-time champion of the Massung Scramble Tournament. 2B.

ANDREA MUJICA STAFF WRITER

The Foundation Academy girls soccer team became district champions for the second time in the history of the program.

The Windermere High boys soccer team celebrated the win after being crowned district champs. Courtesy photos

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

Lucas Drone

Windermere High School junior and wrestler Lucas Drone became recently a two-time champion of the Massung Scramble Tournament. Drone competed in the 134-pound category and improved his season record to 30-4. He also is serving as assistant coach when needed during meets, as his father, Windermere head wrestling coach Aaron Drone, is the sole coach of the team at the moment.

Talk to us about your years as a wrestler.

I learned the basics in middle school, and then freshman year I didn’t get to go to the states series, but my sophomore year I did. Then I made it to regionals, but I placed at every tournament I went to. I’ve been wrestling for six years.

Why wrestling?

My dad got me into it because he wrestled in high school too. And then I’ve had several coaches. … This year, there was not a coach so he stepped in.

What is your favorite move to perform?

The Knee Drop. It helps me get to my opponent’s legs faster.

What do you love most about wrestling as a sport?

The camaraderie between my teammates and the experience of traveling around to different places I would not normally get to go.

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

I believe it’s taught me hard work and leadership. This year I’ve been voted in as captain so I’ve learned how to manage not only my personal life but also my wrestling team.

What do you think makes you a unique wrestler on the mat?

I think sometimes it’s my creativity and my body manipulation skills to where I know how the body reacts and moves, so it helps me find different angles that other people may not see.

Do you have a favorite professional wrestler that you like?

I would say Gabriel Stevenson, because even though he weighed 220 pounds in college, he was still able to do backflips and stuff (that I), at 134 pounds, can’t even do.

What’s your favorite hobby?

Cooking and baking. I find it very therapeutic and also, since wres-

Hoop dreams still alive

The Lions (18-7) were set to face The First Academy (16-9) at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 7 — after press time — during one of the two Class 3A, District 6 semifinal games.

HORIZON BOYS

THE BASICS

AGE: 16

SPORT: Wrestling MOVE: The Knee Drop

GRADE: 11

SCHOOL: Windermere High

tling is so diet-controlling, I like to find healthy ways to make food that tastes good.

What do you like to do on the weekends? I like to get my homework out of the way and talk to friends or try to find ways to relax: reading or play video games.

What are three things you would to a deserted island?

A fire starter, because you always need to be able to maybe boiled water for potable water or to keep yourself warm. A tarp for shelter, protection for the rain or even to collect rain water, and then rope maybe as a fire starter or to hang things up.

What’s your favorite movie?

“Ready Player 1.” I like a lot of pop culture, so that movie brought in video games and movies from all over and put it into one big film.

Who’s your favorite superhero? Swamp Thing. ... It’s cool to see how he connects to nature but also, even though he is an anti-hero, he tries to do good for nature and also humanity.

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

Probably super intelligence because, if you are strong or fast, without the intelligence on how to use it, then it’s useless.So, if I was smart, I could just make myself strong or make myself faster.

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

Australia, to see the different wildlife because I’m very big into wildlife. I would also like to see New Zealand for its grassy hills and its ocean tides. And then, probably, maybe Greece because of its rich history.

If you could go back in time to a specific period of history, which one would it be and why? I think I would go back to the 1980s, for the atmosphere and the movies that were coming out back at the time — (like) “Back to the Future.”

What color would you say represents you? I would say maroon, which is my favorite, because I know it’s very dark but it has the aspect of red, that way I have a good balance between compassion and also leadership when I need it.

If you could be an animal for a day, which one would you be and why?

A hawk — that way I can experience flying and also experience its speed and haunting capabilities.

Where would you like to go to college?

Notre Dame or maybe the University of Central Florida.

— ANDREA MUJICA

The Horizon High School boys basketball team (1-24) was scheduled to battle Lake Minneola (15-9) at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 7 — after press time — during one of the Class 6A, District 6 semifinal games.

GIRLS

The Horizon High School girls basketball team (16-11) continues its pursuit for a state championship title as the Lady Hawks are set to face Viera High School (21-4) at 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 9, during one of the Class 6A, Region 2 quarterfinal games.

LEGACY CHARTER BOYS

The Legacy Charter boys varsity basketball team continues its quest to become the 2023 FHSAA Class 2A, District 8 champion. With a 15-6 overall season record, the Eagles were scheduled to host City of Life Christian Academy (13-7) during one of the districts semifinal games at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 7, after press time.

OCOEE

GIRLS

The Ocoee High School girls varsity basketball team became the 2023 FHSAA Class 7A, District 3 champions after defeating Apopka High

School (17-9) with a score of 43-40 Friday, Feb. 3.

The girls now are set for a new quest: to bring home the Region 1 champion title and, potentially, pursue the state championship title. To do this, the Lady Knights will have to first travel to Hagerty High School (Oviedo) and face the Lady Huskies during one of the regional quarterfinals.

OLYMPIA

BOYS

The Olympia High School boys varsity basketball team culminated its 2022-23 regular season play with a 23-2 overall record and a 2-0 district record.

The Titans fell to Victory Christian Academy 56-53 during their last game of the regular season Saturday, Feb. 4. As the No. 1 seed in the district, the boys advanced to post-season play and are now waiting for the district tournament brackets to be released.

THE FIRST ACADEMY

BOYS

TFA boys varsity basketball team still is standing in the pursuit for a district championship title.

To become the 2023 FHSAA Class 3A, District 6 champions, however, the Royals (16-9) were first set to play against Foundation Academy at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 7, after press time, during one of the semifinal games.

GIRLS

The First Academy girls varsity basketball team became the 2023 FHSAA Class 3A, District 6 champions after defeating Windermere Prep 52-43 Friday, Feb. 3.

The Lady Royals are now set to travel to Seffner Christian to play the Crusaders at 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 9, during one of the Region 2 quarterfinal games.

WEST ORANGE BOYS

The West Orange High School boys varsity basketball team (7-17) remains in the battle for the Class 7A, District 5 title despite losing against the Ocoee Knights 68-61 Friday, Feb. 3.

The Warriors were set to face Cypress Creek (13-12) at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 7, at Olympia High School — after press time — for one of the quarterfinal games.

GIRLS

The West Orange High School girls varsity basketball team still continues its pursuit for a state championship title.

The Lady Warriors are set to face Palm Beach Gardens High School at 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 9, during one of the Class 7A, District 5 Region 2 quarterfinal games.

WINDERMERE PREP GIRLS

The Windermere Prep girls varsity basketball team (17-8) fell short of becoming the 2023 FHSAA Class 3A, District 6 champions after losing against The First Academy 5243 Friday, Feb. 3, during the district championship game.

Despite the loss, the Lady Lakers are set to face Holy Trinity Episcopal Academy (20-4) at 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 9, during one of the Region 2 quarterfinal games.

District domination

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1B

was when my seniors and myself began (that first year we were 5-9 where this year we are … 12-4),” Grosshans said. “This season, I have just been blessed to continue to work with ... a sharp group of women who enjoy being around each other.”

The girls are set to host Orangewood Christian at 5 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 7, after press time, for one of the Region 2 quarterfinal games.

HORIZON BOYS

The Horizon boys soccer team became the first soccer squad in school history to earn the FHSAA Class 5A, District 6 championship title.

“The district championship means a lot to the team,” head soccer coach Brad Duerksen said. “In our pre-season, we set several goals for our program. One of our goals was to win the district championship after coming so close last season. We also set a goal of going undefeated on our home field. We have been able to accomplish both of those goals this season.”

The Hawks defeated Gateway High School 2-1 during the championship game Wednesday, Feb. 1.

“The boys have put in a lot of hard work from last season to this season,” Duerksen said. “We are only a second-year program, but the boys bought into our philosophy from Day 1.”

The team was scheduled to play Matanzas High School (8-5-2) at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 8, after press time, for one of the Region 2 quarterfinal games.

GIRLS

Despite losing to Auburndale 2-1 Wednesday, Feb. 1, during the Class 5A, District 6 championship game, the Horizon girls soccer team remains standing in the battle for the state championship title.

The Lady Hawks were scheduled to host Mainland High School (14-3) for one of the Region 2 quarterfinal games at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 7, after press time.

LEGACY CHARTER

BOYS

Despite falling 3-2 to Faith Christian during the Class 2A, District 6 championship game Thursday, Feb. 2, the Legacy Charter boys soccer team has moved on to the regional bracket and continues its pursuit for a state championship title. The Eagles were bound to travel to St. Edward’s at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 8, after press time, to play the Pirates in one of the Region 2 quarterfinal games.

THE FIRST ACADEMY

GIRLS

The First Academy girls soccer team battled Montverde Academy for the Class 3A, District 5 championship title Wednesday, Feb. 1, but fell short on its quest for the district championship title 5-0.

Despite their loss, the Lady Royals advanced to the regional bracket and are part of a number of teams still battling for a regional and state championship title.

The girls were set to travel to Berkeley Prep at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Feb.7, after press time, to play the Buccaneers during one of the Region 2 quarterfinal games.

WEST ORANGE

BOYS

The West Orange boys soccer team became the Class 7A, District 3 champion after defeating East Ridge Wednesday, Feb. 1, during overtime.

Neither the Warriors nor the Knights were able to reach their opponents’ nets during regular arbitration, and it wasn’t until the first half of overtime that West Orange was able to score a goal to secure the championship.

The Warriors were set to host

Winter Park at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 7, after press time, during one of the Region 1 quarterfinal games.

WINDERMERE BOYS

Windermere became the Class 7A, District 5 champion after defeating Cypress Creek 4-1 Wednesday, Feb. 2, during the district championship.

“I think what it means is the hard work that the kids have put in, that means that they do have to listen and have to work as a complete unit, which means the coach, the players, the parents, and we’ve had that kind of cooperation all year,” head soccer coach Alvin Alexander said.

“This group of players (is) unlike I’ve ever played with before,” defensive midfielder Elias Baltajy said.

“We are a family and often on the pitch, and our hard work paid off,” right winger Gabriel Simoes said. “Me and all my other teammates always get to practice on time, respect the coach and take practice seriously, and that helps us in games.”

The Wolverines were bound to host Palm Harbor at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 8, after press time, during one of the Region 2 regional quarterfinal games.

WINDERMERE PREP BOYS

The Windermere Prep boys varsity soccer team (12-4-1) ended its quest for the Class 3A, District 5 after tying to Lake Highland Prep 1-1 but falling short during a penalty shoot-out 3-0 Thursday, Feb. 2, at the district championship game.

The Lakers, however, made it to the regional bracket and are still in the battle for the state championship title. The team was set to play Bishop Verot at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 8, after press time, during one of the Region 2 quarterfinal games.

WILLIE T. FINCHER SR. DIED JAN. 16, 2023

Willie T. Fincher Sr., 80 of Ocoee, Florida passed away peacefully on Monday, January 16, 2023, at his home with his loving family by his side.

Willie was born on Jan. 1, 1943, in Winter Garden, Florida, to the late Carlton and Margie Fincher.

Willie is survived by his loving wife of 29 years, Mary Lee (Godfrey) Fincher; he is survived by his children, Nancy Fincher, Willie Fincher Jr.; and his stepdaughter, Charlotte Johnson; brother, Roger Fincher; and several grandchildren, great-grandchildren,

nieces, nephews and extended family and friends.

Willie will be missed dearly. Winter Oak Funeral Home & Cremations.

Lady Lakers lock in second district crown

ing girls, and they are just going to continue to replace because they believe in training year-round with us,” Kurtz said.

The Windermere Prep girls weightlifting team entered its 2022-23 season as defending district champions — and now is a two-time district champion.

“The biggest thing is getting them bought in and trusting the process,” head weightlifting coach Micah Kurtz said.

Four years ago, Kurtz started the girls weightlifting team at the school with only 18 or 20 girls. Today, the team is twice the size, with 40 members — making it the biggest team at the school — and a force during tournaments and competitions. This is attributed to the trust and the comfort the girls have with each other.

“Our environment is top-tier,” senior Alexis Beaulieu said. “I love the environment that we have with the team in the weight room. We play music and have dance parties with our coaches, we sing karaoke and other stuff during practices, and I think that makes everyone feel more comfortable with the team. … We are constantly team-bonding with each other, and I believe that makes a great atmosphere.”

Not only does the environment within the weight room provides stability during meets, but it has reached out to younger athletes, and the program is open for sixth-graders if they wish to join. Currently, the youngest members of the girls weightlifting team are seventhgraders, and with about 10 seniors graduating, the team is hopeful for the future.

“We are looking at the return

Because of the growth in numbers this year, the only challenge the Lady Lakers experienced in regard to practice was the limited space at the weight room — but, nonetheless, the team was able to bring in a positive mindset and a winning mentality to every practice.

“That probably was our biggest problem (this season),” Kurtz said. “But, it’s a good one to have.”

Senior Danielle Works, 18, has been a member of the team the four years it’s been in existence and believes that an encouraging environment is more beneficial and result-oriented than a competitive one.

“The coaches’ encouragement is what kind of bonds the team together and the chemistry we have in terms of weightlifting,” she said.

“Our school is very communityoriented as well, so it’s very easy for all of us to get along, and since it’s a smaller school, everyone kind of knows everyone so it’s that bond that we all share.”

The Lady Lakers competed at the Class 1A Region 3 championship meet Friday, Feb. 3, at The Villages, where they placed third in the Traditional Lift category and in the Olympic Lift category with 38 and 36 points, respectively.

State Championship qualifiers are Bella Akabane and Beaulieu for first place, Ava Barbey and Works for second place and Sidney Provencher, Kirah Bilanovich and Sam Gerena for fourth place.

“I like to help the younger ones to realize that it is important for us to capitalize on the fact that you are constantly competing with yourself and that this is a welcoming environment,” Beaulieu said. “You should be able to make mistakes and learn from them and grow from them.”

ANDREA MUJICA STAFF WRITER

The Lady Lakers have had a successful ride this season as they conquered districts and placed third at regionals.

REGGIE MANGAL CENTRAL FLORIDA CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

Reggie Mangal is the dean and director of admissions at Central Florida Christian Academy. Although the job holds many different aspects, Mangal works to get to the root of the behaviors. He partners with parents as they navigate ways to best help their children be successful. On the admissions side, he gives tours to prospective families and meets with them to answer their questions. Mangal also tests incoming students so the school knows where they land academically. “I have an amazing assistant that helps me with the administrative side of admissions — shout out to Danielle — that I would be lost without her,” he said. “I love my team, administration/staff and faculty that I get to serve our school and community members with. God has truly blessed me here at CFCA.” Lower School Principal Pam Theobald said Mangal “makes all students feel like he is in their corner and that they are loved.”

What brought you to your school?

I recently planted a church with my best friend, Beloved Church, and I felt God leading me after nine years in my prior school to help disciple students by more openly sharing the gospel with them.

What do you love most about your school?

Day in and day out I get to live life in our community with our students who are the next big world changers.

What is your motivation?

My family motivates me to be the best version of myself in my personal life and my work life.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

The most rewarding part of my job is helping students to know that they belong, that they are known and they are loved. I work hard each and every day to get students to see themselves the way God sees them.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

Spending quality time with my beautiful wife, Jess, and two awesome kids, Auggie and Nora. We love playing Legos, going to the beach, singing karaoke loud enough for the neighbors to hear and really any other adventure we can go on together.

REPORT CARD

POSITION: Dean of Students

Admissions Director TIME AT SCHOOL: Almost two years

Who was your favorite teacher when you were in school? Why? Mr. Malone was my favorite teacher. He taught pre-law/government and saw the potential of the man I could be yet I couldn’t see in myself yet. When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up? Why?

I wanted to be a lawyer by day and a rockstar by night. I love standing up for those who cannot defend themselves and I wanted to also tour around to see the world.

What is your favorite children’s book and why? My favorite children’s book is one called “Friday Night Wrestlefest.” My 4-year-old son shares my love for wrestling, and that book has been a family favorite.

What are your hobbies?

I love playing music. I play at The Attic Door in downtown Winter

Garden once a month, and I lead worship at our church in Clermont.

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

I would like to be able to run really fast like Flash because he is one of my favorite superheroes.

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

Coldplay, Switchfoot and Ben Rector. They are all part of the reason I started playing music at age 15.

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

My dad’s famous BLT was my goto lunch. Favorite snacks were the original Doritos with Mountain Dew. I also loved Twix candy bars — and still do.

What is your favorite holiday and why?

Christmas is my favorite holiday because watching the magic of Christmas through my kids’ eyes brings me so much joy!

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

Sylvester, because we both shared a love for WWE wrestling. We were going to be tag team champions but the stars just never aligned. We are no longer in touch as my family moved to America from Curaçao.

What were your extracurricular activities as a student? Did you win any accolades or honors?

I was the president of the Future Business Leaders of America and played many different sports. Coming to America, I wanted to experience as many different things as I could.

— ANNABELLE SIKES

superintendent hosts town hall

we have a teacher shortage, but the greatest area is with teachers that teach children with disabilities.”

ANDREA MUJICA STAFF WRITER

Windermere High School parents attended a successful discussion with Dr. Maria Vazquez, superintendent of Orange County Public Schools, Tuesday, Jan. 31.

As part of her 100-day entry plan, Vazquez set a goal that included traveling around the district hosting 22 meetings with employees and 22 meetings with parents and community members.

Windermere High was the 21st school the superintendent visited.

“We’ve been asking the same three questions,” Vazquez said.

“We’ve been asking what’s going well, what’s not going well and … how we are doing with communication.”

Parents were asked to engage in a conversation that focused on the three questions using a platform called ThoughtExchange, where they were able to provide their thoughts and opinions. Vazquez read the top comments and discussed them with the parents while answering questions and expanding on requested information.

“At the end of the 100 days, we will combine everything to be able to see what are those top responses,” she said. “We are starting to see some patterns, this is the 21st (meeting), but we are starting to see some differences — some new answers based on communities, based on areas, based on parents or administrators — so it’s been interesting to see the commonalities and similarities but also to see those things that are unique.”

The first question was “Name one thing that is going well and we should continue it.”

Wolverine parents listed the football stadium moving to campus, communication, extracurricular programs and crossing guards. When asked the second question — “What is one thing that needs immediate attention and can be improved or changed?” — parents were vocal about some recent concerns.

One concern was teacher retention; a parent asked if teacher turnover could be reduced.

“That’s an issue; I’m sure you know it’s a national crisis with education,” Vazquez said. “Part of that is related to salary, but we are very hopeful that we are going to be able to provide raises for all of our employees this upcoming year.”

The lack of bus drivers and the low income they earn also was one of the topics discussed.

“Buses is an issue because we don’t have more drivers,” Vazquez

said. “I’m going to be perfectly transparent: That’s probably not going to change in the next year or so. We do have a pilot that we are starting in March with iPads on our buses. It’s a pilot that’s going to start in the Pine Hills complex. If that goes well then that pilot will go in all of our buses next year and it will at least let parents track where the bus is.

“We actually have the best package of any of our neighboring districts — we train them for free, there is a signing bonus, we have the highest rate,” Vazquez said. “However, they come, get their signing bonus, we train them, and then after a couple of weeks they leave us.”

One of the comments also shared was the need to have better-prepared teachers for advanced and more rigorous programs.

“When we look at the shortage of teachers, the greatest vacancies are in the area of exceptional (education),” Vazquez said. “Not only do

Better internet and Wi-Fi were mentioned, as well as better accessibility to counselors. One parent said there is a need for more approachable counselors, as well as better communication between the counselors and students. She said one of her sons had never visited his counselor’s office until his junior year of high school because he didn’t know who his counselor was.

“That should not happen,” Vazquez said.

A Windermere High student who was present at the meeting shared his experience with his counselor. He said during the transfer process from an out-of-state school, despite sending his transcripts to his counselor, these were not entered into the system until his second semester — so he had to spend a semester taking classes that were below his academic level.

“I feel like the counselors as a whole should be informed about what should happen and give students more flexibility about the courses that they can choose,” the student said.

At the end of the meeting, Vazquez expressed her appreciation with the parents who were present.

“I want to say thank you for coming out,” she said. “Some of you had so many things with your families that you took time out to come and meet me and share your thoughts with me. It really means a lot, and it also means how supportive you are of OCPS, and I want you to continue to be supportive.

“We are going to continue with town halls, probably not 22 in 100 days, but we are going to continue this forum and continue to reach out and connect with you,” Vazquez said.

Andrea Mujica

Orange County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Maria Vazquez enjoyed her time at Windermere High School.

JCC experiences blustery weather at Winterfest

The Rosen Jewish Community Center hosted its annual Winterfest event Saturday, Jan. 28. The event included food from several food trucks, a snow slide, games, face painting, a rock wall, pony rides and a petting zoo. The Rosen JCC is a not-for-profit organization that prides itself on its diverse, inclusive community and provides a wide array of programming for children and adults of all ages.

— ANNABELLE SIKES

Windermere hosts annual Wine & Dine

Hundreds of guests sipped and dined their way around the lawn of Windermere Town Hall Saturday, Feb. 4, at the town’s annual Wine & Dine event. Thirtyone restaurants — such as The Oceanaire Seafood Room, STK Steakhouse, Highball & Harvest and The Boathouse — set up tents and food stations to serve up everything from barbecue, pizza and pot pie to seafood, steak and spirits. Guests danced to a variety of music and checked out several of the latest cars and boats.

Proceeds from the event are granted to nonprofits such as West Orange Dream Center, Sleep in Heavenly Peace, Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida, One Purse and the Florida Symphony Youth Orchestras.

AMY QUESINBERRY

A stilt walker entertained children with his giant bubble creations.

One of the highlights of the Winterfest was the popular snow slide.

Above: Noah Edri, Abi Edri and Samantha Alba ran around the field together.

Left: Attendees stopped at the face painting booth for colorful makeup.

Below: Families attended the annual Winterfest event together.

Ainsley Dixon, director of food and beverage at Lake Nona Wave Hotel, served Exit, Pursued by Bear, a drink made of bourbon, orange liqueur, lemon juice, honey syrup and bitters.

Executive Chef Justin Plank of Terralina Crafted Italian prepared a wild mushroom risotto.

Susan Carmody, left, Jim Carmody, Karen Kubsch and Chris Kubsch enjoyed the evening at the Windermere Wine & Dine.

Jessie Nolla, left, and Johnna Matheny of Dixie Cream Café served up bowls of biscuits and gravy, chicken pot pie biscuits, and strawberry shortcake biscuits.

THESE OLD TIMES FROM THE WINTER GARDEN HERITAGE FOUNDATION

90 years ago

Hoyle Pounds, J.D. Pounds and E.L. Kerlin spent the day in Jacksonville, attending a meeting of Ford dealers.

Mr. and Mrs. R.L. Gulley motored to Orlando Sunday and visited Mr. and Mrs. Norman Gulley, their son and daughter-in-law.

85 years ago

Franklin Cappleman and Carl Hall, joined by Herbert Pounds in Winter Haven, attended the fair in Tampa on Wednesday.

72 years ago

A Lakeview Quarterback Club was formed in the interest of a new football stadium for the high school. The aim was to build an athletic plant that would be a credit to any town in the state.

60 years ago

Jere Sullivan was named local Heart Fund chairman.

Plans were announced for the Railroad Ramble to visit Winter Garden.

45 years ago

The Lakeview Junior High School Valentine Court was elected. Seventh grade: Tami Davis and Melissa Messeguer. Eighth grade: Suzanne Brown and Susan McCutcheon. Ninth grade: Betsy Shaw, Joanna Rosich, Patty Casteel and Cathi Norris.

30 years ago

The city of Ocoee was preparing to cut the ribbon on the largest construction project ever undertaken — the new Clarke Road, dubbed the “Road to Tomorrow,” was built to serve as a major north-south artery in the city. Another project with an even bigger impact on Ocoee’s future was the proposed one-million-squarefoot regional mall, accessed by Clarke Road.

FROM THE ARCHIVES

Drew High School students Betty Wade, Eugene Kemp and Myrtle Hardwick are seen in a classroom around 1964. Charles R. Drew was a black surgeon and medical researcher who, among other innovations, pioneered the development of large-scale blood banks. The high school for black students in segregated Winter Garden opened in 1957 and served students until the onset of integration in the 1969-70 school year.

The Winter Garden Heritage Museum is featuring many images of Drew students in its current exhibition, “School Bells are Ringing.”

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.

Tri-County Transit announced plans to extend its Lynx bus service to the west for folks in Winter Garden and Ocoee.

It was a memorable day for the members of the Southwest Orlando Jewish Congregation when the Ohalei Rivka temple opened to the community on ApopkaVineland Road.

The last day of operation for West Orange Hospital would be Feb. 28. The 44-year-old facility was being replaced by Health

Central, the new medical-mall facility in Ocoee.

20 years ago

Opal West retired from the Country House restaurant after 30 years of serving up breakfast and lunch to diners. She worked there as a waitress under five different ownership chapters, beginning when it was called the Ranch House. The first cup of coffee she served cost 11 cents, and burgers were 35 cents. Opal said after so

THROWBACK THURSDAY

FEB. 8, 1973

George Stuart, located on East Robinson Street in Orlando, advertised a sale on its office equipment in The Winter Garden Times in 1973. Nowadays, smart phones have replaced the need for nearly everything featured.

Electronic calculators, which had standard size keyboards but were small enough to fit into a briefcase, were priced at $99.95. It used the latest 1-chip ISI.

The electric adding machine, selling for $59.95, totaled to $9,999,999.99 and included keys for subtraction, automatic credit balance, electric clearance and non-add.

If you needed a locking metal filing cabinet with an 18-inch space-saver depth, they were available in twoand four-drawer for $24.95 or $37.95.

How about a Jetric sharpener? “Imagine a new electric pencil sharpener that does all the work at a price you’d expect to pay for a good manual!” It could be yours for $9.95.

many years of serving folks, she could meet people on the street and might not know their names but could recall how they liked their eggs cooked.

Winter Garden barber Earl Brigham met Tiger Woods while the golfer was on Plant Street filming a Nike commercial. Part of the filming was done inside the barbershop.

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

“H’D U MHX TKAUSAS. H’D ZSRHBX ZP

SAHB HZ HB MJZ H VP ZCHBL HZ’T U BHIA TAUTPBHBX PG WUBXJUXA.”

PWHFHU IPWDUB

“SY S EDFKA WLC WDRSCP S MXDWLWKU TDFKA WFI S’KK IZKK UDF

SC IBZ GLNZ WXZLIB, S KDOZA SI PXDTSCP FM.” HDCLIBLC WLCVG

“XW AGAECJIA UDP D FXOOFA ZXO IXRAE

OJ MAJMFA, OTA UJEFV UJBFV ZA D HBRT ZAOOAE MFDRA.” TDEEC POCFAP ©

Inc.

celebrity cipher sudoku

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

I’M EXHAUSTED! by Fred Piscop, edited by David Steinberg

By Luis Campos

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