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.