07.20.23 Southwest Orange Observer

Windermere, Horizon West, Dr. Phillips

YOU YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.

Gym campers catch big air

Students at Gymnastics USA tumble into fun during the gym’s annual camp.

Fast track

YOUR TOWN

CHAMBER LOOKING FOR LEADERSHIP GRADUATES

The West Orange Chamber of Commerce is looking for graduates of its Leadership West Orange program to invite them to a reunion event in October. Chamber staff wants to reconnect with all participants of the program, which began in 1994, and give graduates a chance to catch up with old friends. Contact Artena Greene at (407) 656-1304, Ext. 2, or agreene@wochamber.com.

NEW MARKET TAKES ROOT

At 18, Rhen Myers is graduating from the University of Central Florida with a degree in criminal justice. Her goal: The FBI. SEE STORY ON PAGE 4A.

Pavilion discussion continues in

Windermere

The town of Oakland is working on plans to host a farmers market in front of the Healthy West Orange Arts & Heritage Center along the West Orange Trail starting in September. The market will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the second and fourth Thursdays — with the inaugural market opening Thursday, Sept. 14.

The town is partnering with Orange Blossom Market Co. to secure quality vendors offering fresh produce, specialty items, homemade food, and arts and crafts. Live music will be featured on the porch of the heritage center on select dates. Vendors selling handmade items are encouraged to apply by emailing specialevents@ oaklandfl.gov. For more, visit oaklandfl.gov/1028/FarmersMarket.

UNDER THE SEA

Training days

Town Council members approved unanimously the tabling of the Windermere Pavilion project after a request from Mayor Jim O’Brien. SEE PAGE 6A.

The Lone Sailor Division of the Naval Sea Cadet Corps is seeking new students. 3A.

Annabelle Sikes

Windermere residents Denise Myers and her daughter Rhen Myers have a close relationship.

IN OTHER NEWS

Town tables pavilion discussion

ANNABELLE SIKES NEWS EDITOR

Town Council members in Windermere continued the pavilion project discussion at the Town Council meeting Tuesday, July 11.

Before voting to terminate the Healthy West Orange pavilion, Mayor Jim O’Brien asked the Town Council if it would be favorable to tabling the item so the town could take another look at bringing something positive to the community.

“I was disappointed in the result — not so much about the building per se, but I think we learned a lot and learned a lot about what people were thinking, what people were concerned about, what was bothering people, what was on their minds,” he said. “I think some of it was tough to hear, to be honest with you, but still always constructive to hear. I think that there are some opportunities to take this kind of tough thing and turn it into a potential positive.”

PAVILION POSTPONED

The proposed outdoor pavilion planned for downtown Windermere continued to face mixed opinions from residents following a Town

Council workshop in June. The project is a partnership between the West Orange Healthcare District and Windermere Rotary Inc.

At the workshop, council members unanimously consented to do nothing with the project and return the cost spent to date.

At the time of the meeting, O’Brien said he hated to give back money and believed the town needs to take a closer look at events, and the size of events, in the future.

“I wrestle with this,” he said. “I really feel like we’re taking out some displeasure on events on a pavilion. But … certainly I do hear all the feedback and respect all of that feedback.

I wish we could go to take a different look at it and a better look at it, but I think it’s pretty clear that council doesn’t feel that way. … I understand that, and I think that we will probably … maybe regret (this decision). … You’re basically telling a funding source that we’re not a viable place for them.”

Following the June meeting, O’Brien said he met with Byron and Norma Sutton, longtime Rotary members.

The Suttons said they are willing to take the discussions back to the Rotary board and the other involved parties to see if the agreement can be worked out without the separate proposed building.

“I don’t want to say exactly what the result of that will be, but I believe that they have the ability to get that approved, most likely, by Healthy West

Orange and allow us, in my mind, to do some things that are more Town Hall centric,” O’Brien said.

Council Member Tony Davit he was glad to hear the discussion brought to the table.

“I truly believe there’s a win-win here,” he said. “I think there’s some reconfiguration, and if both parties kind of take a step back, look at the master plan, look at the other opportunities we have down here at Town Square, I truly believe there’s value there where we can get to a point that everybody’s happy.”

Council Member Molly Rose said she sat in on a phone call with Town Manager Robert Smith, Rotary and HWO where HWO officials said they were not in favor of looking at a different type of project.

“Obviously, I would love to get some money and help us … but I think we should take Rotary out of the equation,” she said. “I think we should do our negotiations directly with Healthy West Orange. I think we’ll get the best for the town and the citizens that way and that’s who the project is for us, the citizens.”

In addition, Rose said she is not in agreement with what

n Jake Carsten presented his Eagle Scout project to the Windermere Town Council. Carsten hopes to install an American flag receptacle in the town to provide a place for the community to have their flags retired respectfully.

n The council approved, with Council Member Tom Stroup absent, the second reading of an ordinance to implement a traffic-calming program on Oakdale Street by installing a diversion barrier. The barrier will be placed at the intersection of Ninth Avenue East and Oakdale Street, and will require vehicles traveling north on Oakdale to turn left onto Ninth Avenue. The diversion barrier will include landscaping, a dedicated place for golf carts to pass through, signage to minimize people turning around their vehicles and to prevent the standing of delivery and other vehicles, and notification to emergency agencies and other utilities and delivery companies.

HWO is asking for in terms of prices. The Town Council voted unanimously, with Council Member Tom Stroup absent, to table the project for 90 days.

TOWN EVENTS

The project also has spurred a slew of comments regarding events. Based on recent comments, O’Brien said he wants to make sure the events the town is hosting make sense for the community and serve local residents. He proposed scheduling a workshop

n The council approved two interlocal agreements. The first is between Orange County and the town for community development programs under the urban county program, and the second is for permit inspection and review and fire/EMS services between the city of Ocoee and the town.

n Council members approved the first reading of an ordinance regarding the final development plan/major development site plan and development agreement for Windermere downtown property redevelopment. The subject property is located at the northeast corner of Main Street and East Sixth Avenue and is within the Town Center Overlay District.

n Council Member Mandy David asked the Town Council to consider renaming the Windermere Recreation Center tennis courts after recently passed community member Doug Bowman. Bowman served on the Parks & Recreation Committee and was an avid tennis player.

to further discuss the thoughts of the community. “What I was hearing and thinking with the input that we received was are we being strategic with the events that we are having,” he said. The Town Council consented to O’Brien’s proposal.

CADETS FIRST, CADETS ALWAYS

SEA CADETS

The Naval Sea Cadet Corps is the Navy’s youth development program. It gives young Americans skills, knowledge and confidence through a variety of training opportunities. Sea Cadets wear uniforms; work as teams in a disciplined environment; and adhere to the core values of honor, respect, commitment and service. The program’s military culture stresses concepts of duty, service and self-sacrifice — the foundation of good leadership. Cadets are given leadership opportunities by staffing summer training events, planning unit drill sessions and teaching others.

Lone Sailor Division as a midshipman and continuing to serve as a liaison between the cadets and adults. This rank is given to adult officers who are not yet 21.

AMY QUESINBERRY

COMMUNITY EDITOR

Jeff Hawk believes in giving youth not only a sense of purpose but also the confidence to seek out how they can be a contributing member of society.

Hawk is the commanding officer of the Lone Sailor Division of the United States Naval Sea Cadets Corps, which was established in 2018 to develop future leaders. The group, currently numbering 24 male and female cadets ages 10 through 18, meets monthly at Windermere Town Hall.

“We teach them a lot of leadership skills, but we also help them find the

confidence in themselves along with it,” Hawk said. “They get that military-style training and atmosphere without being screamed at and yelled at. It’s a naval youth development program. … We believe in ‘one ship, one fight,’ and our region’s motto is ‘Cadets First, Cadets Always.’”

The West Orange County unit is sponsored by American Legion Post 63, Windermere Police Department and Central Florida Navy League.

Hawk’s youngest cadet is 11; the oldest is 18, and his last official day is Aug. 20.

Jared Fairchild, of Winter Garden, graduated from West Orange High School and, subsequently, the Sea Cadets, in May. Fairchild obtained the rank of cadet chief petty officer, the highest rank one can reach in the program. As command chief of the unit, Fairchild has acted as the liaison between the adults and cadets in the program.

“The most important thing I have probably learned is how to be a good and respected leader while also learning how to work together as a cohesive unit,” Fairchild said.

He plans to stay involved in the program to utilize what he has learned to mentor the cadets along their own path to becoming good leaders.

“The unit is like a family the way we help and care for each other,” Fairchild said.

His goal is to enlist in the Coast Guard and become a rescue swimmer — while also remaining with the

Hawk is a retired U.S. Army sergeant who served from 2003 to 2012. He met his wife, Ashley, while both were on deployment in Iraq, and she, too, is a Sea Cadet officer. Both of their children, ages 15 and 13, are involved in the program.

“My son started as a league cadet in this program,” Hawk said. “He was shy, and it’s helped him open up a lot. … He’s actually about to become a petty officer first class.”

Cadets take part in drills at the Windermere Police Department on the third weekend of the month and attend a variety of summer training events. They are available for color guards, flag-retirement ceremonies and other community service opportunities in the Windermere, Winter Garden, Dr. Phillips and Ocoee areas.

“They love to do it,” Hawk said.

“They get experiences they would not get. Most of the cadets end up really liking the program and join the military after graduation. We’re not a recruitment program, and a lot of parents don’t understand this. If a child goes through the program and complete the program, they can go in the military at a higher rank.”

The Lone Sailor Division is one of six units in Central Florida Region 6-8. The others are American Pride Squadron, Clermont Battalion, Chris Kyle Battalion, Centurion Battalion and Freedom Battalion, which is operated through Freedom High School.

Last year, the local division won the Chairman’s Award for recruiting and retention; ranked 11th out of the top 25 in the nation; and was named the top unit in Region 6, which covers

OPEN HOUSE

The Lone Sailor Division of the United States Naval Sea Cadet Corps is holding an open house from 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday, July 30, at Windermere Town Hall, 520 Main St. This is a change for parents and potential cadets to learn about the unit and the program, meet other cadets and Commanding Officer Jeff Hawk, and ask questions. Those interested in attending can register for the event at lonesailordivision.org. For more information, email info@ lonesailordivision.org.

Florida, Georgia and South Carolina.

Hawk said in Florida alone, there are about 25 units.

Meghan Hone is the finance officer and event coordinator for the Lone Sailor Division. She became a

volunteer with Sea Cadets because of her daughter, Kate, who is currently the division’s public affairs officer.

“Kate … wanted to be an astronaut since she was 2 years old,” Hone said.

“She came to me when she was about 13 and said, ‘You know, a lot of astronauts are pilots first, so I want to be a pilot, in either the Air Force or the Navy.’ I said, ‘OK, let’s find a way to support you trying to be a pilot,’ so I did some looking around. … I found Sea Cadets and the Lone Sailor Division.”

Kate joined in 2021 and has loved her experience. When Kate asked her mother to get involved as an adult volunteer, Hone agreed.

She said she recommends the Sea Cadets program to all families.

“The change I saw in her even in the first three months of being in the program is incredible,” Hone said. “Our cadets are young leaders, and they have so much character and … they’re just outstanding kids.”

The Lone Sailor Division is a West Orange County unit with about 24 youth participants who learn leadership skills and gain confidence while discovering their purpose.

Cadets visited the Lone Sailor Memorial at Lake Baldwin.

Lone Sailor Division cadets spent time at MacDill Air Force Base.

Courtesy photos Field ops are part of training.

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Super scholar graduates college at 18

ANNABELLE SIKES

NEWS EDITOR

Windermere resident Rhen Myers was 14 years old when she started college. By age 16, Myers had finished her college general education requirements and had to select a major.

Now, while most students at the age of 18 are graduating high school, Myers is graduating summa cum laude from the University of Central Florida with a top honor graduation distinction.

MATURE MASTERMIND

Denise Myers knew her daughter was unique from a young age.

Rhen Myers excelled academically and skipped a grade before she entered her upper elementary school years.

“Academics have always been my strong suit, and that’s the way my brain is wired,” Rhen Myers said. “This has just always been my niche. My brain just learns information differently than others.”

Denise Myers said she placed a high priority on academics and made sure to supply her daughter with the tools she needed along the way.

“I didn’t just have her go to school, come home and simply ask her if she had any homework,” she said. “I would sit with her, and we would talk about things she was learning, and I would invest in her learning. I would always push her to expand her thinking. Not just in education but also in routes of how she gets there. As she has evolved through this process, she has adopted it to be her own.”

Rhen Myers attended The First Academy before transferring to Windermere High School.

When she was 14 years old, she

“… I would always push her to expand her thinking. Not just in education but also in routes of how she gets there. As she has evolved through this process, she has adopted it to be her own.”

began dual enrollment online through the University of Florida.

While many students chose to take Advanced Placement courses for college credit, Rhen Myers said she felt dual enrollment was a better option.

“You can do dual enrollment or AP to get college credit, but AP is a class you take all year where at the end you take a test that you either pass or fail,” she said. “Dual enrollment is on a grading scale, and the college classes only last a semester. Some of the AP credits also do not transfer the same to universities depending on where you decide to go.”

Rhen Myers finished her high school credits early. She decided to not graduate early but rather attend all four years to graduate later from Windermere with 74 college credits in May 2022.

Although she had obtained the Bright Futures scholarship and had a Florida Prepaid college plan, none of the money was utilized for her college credits. Because she was technically still a part of Orange County Public Schools, her dual enrollment was completely covered financially.

Rhen Myers started with general education courses at UF before transferring to UCF after a year.

At age 16, she was tasked with selecting a major to pursue. Denise Myers called on many business professionals to give her daughter some insight into potential careers.

“It is important to see what excites a kid’s brain chemistry,” Denise Myers said.

Rhen Myers rode on a plane with a pilot, talked to an anesthesiologist, spoke to a criminal defense attorney and even sat in a courtroom watching a murder trial for a week.

Having had a long-term exposure to law enforcement through her friends and family, Rhen Myers decided to pursue a criminal justice major.

Her first class in her major, Careers in Criminal Justice, was her first in-person class. Every session she attended featured a new guest speaker. She said the class sealed the deal for her in terms of her passion.

“I loved the concept of profiling, but after finishing the class, I realized no matter what route I took in the criminal-justice realm, I was going to love it,” Rhen Myers said. “The in-person classes brought me out of high school and put me in the real world, so I could have a taste of what life looks like.”

WELL-ROUNDED INDIVIDUAL

In addition to maintaining a 4.0 GPA, Rhen Myers worked part-time at Publix and Starbucks, respectively.

In high school, she was a member of the National Honor Society and a manager for the football team, participated in the Student Government Association and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, and helped coordinate Dance Marathon for Children’s Miracle Network.

When she was 16, she attended the Federal Bureau of Investigation National Academy Association’s Youth Leadership Program, where she was awarded a $1,000 scholarship. She also was asked to give the commencement speech at her graduation from the program.

Community service and giving back to others is a love that drives both mother and daughter.

Denise Myers said although the Bright Futures scholarship requires only 100 hours of community service for all four years of high school, she challenged her daughter to complete 100 hours every school year.

Rhen Myers graduated from WHS with more than 500 hours of community service.

At UCF, Rhen Myers participated in Knight-Thon for the Children’s Miracle Network.

She was also the leader of the eighth-grade girls group at a summer camp hosted by her church, Lifebridge Orlando, where she consistently serves in the youth and young adult ministry.

Denise Myers believes it is up to the parent to develop well-rounded individuals in their children. She said she worked hard to build a community around her daughter to help her excel and grow.

Instead of focusing only on academics, Rhen Myers played soccer, did gymnastics, wake surfs, spends time on the water, makes fitness a priority and loves developing her relationships with friends.

LEADING THE WAY

Her list of achievements may be long, but Rhen Myers said her age is the only caveat.

Graduating college at the young age of 18 leaves a question about what comes next.

Although she explored the possibility of pursuing a master’s degree or law school, her field of interest requires real-life experience.

She cannot attend the police academy until she is 19, and she must be 21 to enter into the FBI.

“I had someone come to speak at my first in-person class at UCF; he was retired Air Force and created his own intelligence company,” Rhen Myers said. “We spoke to him, and he said the military is a great option. I could do it with my age, and I also have some family members who are in the Air Force.”

Rhen Myers currently is planning to enlist in the Air Force. She hopes to secure a position in command control so she can experience leadership and learn from watching the commanders.

While enlisted, she plans to work on obtaining her master’s degree, which will be paid for by the military.

She will be enlisted for four years and finish when she is 22 years old. At that time, she will be considered a veteran, and hopes to apply for the FBI with the help of the veteran’s preference.

Her dream is to one day work for the FBI pursuing behavioral science on the criminal side.

In the meantime, she is considering a job offer from the Winter Garden Police Department as a 911 dispatcher.

Rhen Myers said the biggest piece of her story is her faith, and the way she has been led on her journey by something greater than herself.

“My faith is my center point,” Rhen Myers said. “Everything else revolves around that. God has the bigger plan for my life already laid out. I just have to trust in the steps as I go.”

Rhen Myers will graduate Aug. 5 from UCF with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice with a minor in legal studies.

She said it’s surreal to think of the accomplishment, and she hopes to encourage other young adults to challenge themselves to do more and believe in themselves.

“When I sit down and think about it, I realize the norm is to graduate from high school when one is 18, but I’m graduating from college at the same age,” she said. “Doing that surprises me with how I even got that done. It’s really cool and it’s definitely a trinket for me to have in the back of my mind to know that I did that and have that accomplishment. It’s an encouragement, especially when people have told me that it couldn’t be done. I’m here, and I did it.”

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— Denise Myers

Rhen Myers attended the Federal Bureau of Investigation National Academy Association’s Youth Leadership Program.

Rhen Myers graduated from Windermere High School in 2022. Courtesy photos

Denise Myers said she has raised her daughter, Rhen Myers, to be a well-rounded individual.

Part of our world

The Theatre at St. Luke’s version of ‘The Little Mermaid’ will run July 20 to 30.

AMY QUESINBERRY

COMMUNITY EDITOR

A new twist on the classic Disney film “The Little Mermaid” is hitting the stage at Theatre at St. Luke’s, and Steve MacKinnon is excited to present this unique interpretation to the community.

“(In) this creative re-telling of Disney’s classic musical … Ariel finds her voice, follows her calling to discover her true identity, and works for her family’s understanding and acceptance,” said MacKinnon, the senior artistic director who is co-directing the show with Ke’Lee Pernell.

St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, in the Dr. Phillips area, is known for selecting shows that correlate with current events, MacKinnon said.

The Rev. Dr. Jennifer Stiles Williams, lead pator, emphasized the importance of choosing productions that touch hearts and ignite

IF YOU GO DISNEY’S THE LITTLE MERMAID

WHEN: 7 p.m. Thursday, July 20, through Saturday, July 22, and Thursday, July 27, through Sunday, July 30; 2 p.m. Sunday, July 23, Saturday, July 29, and Sunday, July 30

WHERE: Theatre at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, 4851 S. Apopka-Vineland Road, Orlando TICKETS: $15 to $38; available online at st.lukes.org/mermaid

meaningful conversations.

“At St. Luke’s, we believe in using the power of the arts to illuminate relevant issues in our community,” she said. “The Little Mermaid reminds us of the universal longing for acceptance, love and the courage to pursue our dreams — no matter the obstacles we face. Through this production, we hope to spark conversations about the importance of embracing diversity and fostering inclusivity.”

Auditions were held for the stage production, and because the church is located in the heart of the entertainment community, many in

the cast work for local theme parks.

“We all kind of work in the arts around here,” MacKinnon said. “Everything is based around tourism and entertainment, and people around here have a heart for it. We have professionals, amateurs, kids, retirees, Disney performers (and) first-timers. It’s really exciting … the people who show up for this program.”

This is the church theater’s 12th season. He said some of the performers have performed for several summers to continue their craft.

The cast of 45 — which ranges from ages 8 to 80 — includes Mekiah Thomas as Ariel, Calistenes Fuguet as Prince Eric, Mosi Arthur as Sebastian, Jake Gatsby Reid as Flounder, Quentin Avery Brown as King Triton, Jake Aboyoun as Scuttle and Daisy McCarthy Tucker as Ursula. An ensemble and a full, 12-person orchestra made up of both professionals and amateurs complete the performances.

The creative team includes Joe Klug, scenic design; Alyx Jacobs, lighting design; Mindi French, costume design; and Anthony Narciso, sound. MacKinnon said the crew includes professional designers and volunteers who helped build and paint the set.

Tiffany Meadows-Green will lead the production as stage manager, and Kim Ball is in charge of choreography.

“It takes a village to put on the summer show,” MacKinnon said. “It’s pretty epic — all the people we’ve collaborated with to bring it together.”

In addition to the big stage show each summer, Theatre at St. Luke’s provides smaller plays and special events, pop-up shows with live entertainment or improv, youth shows and youth camps.

The team of MacKinnon and Pernell have produced close to 15 shows together. As with all their productions, “The Little Mermaid” is a

labor of love. And love is at the core of the show’s message.

“It’s a message about acceptance and people living into their purpose and calling into the world,” MacKinnon said. “Discovering themselves and families learning to let go and accept their children as they are. And we were excited to tell the story through a lens that would reach all people.

“It reflects who we are as a church and who we are and what we stand for — and we’re trying to reflect that through the awesome theater program,” he said.

$2.99 lb

Courtesy of St. Luke’s United Methodist Church

First Baptist Church @ Horizon West 15304 Tilden Road, Winter Garden

Sundays: 9:45 AM All Ages www.FBCWG.org

Starke Lake Baptist Church

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

Victory Baptist Church & Christian Academy 1601 A.D. Mims Rd, Ocoee FL 34761 (407) 656-3097

www.VBCOCOEE.com

Sunday: 11AM & 6 PM Wednesday: 7 PM

CHURCH OF GOD

Ocoee Church of God

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

EPISCOPAL

Church of the Messiah

241 N. Main St., Winter Garden

Sunday: 8, 9:30, & 11 AM., 4PM (French & Creole), 7 PM www.ChurchoftheMessiah.com

METHODIST

First United Methodist www.fumcwg.org

125 N. Lakeview Ave., Winter Garden (407) 656-1135 Services: 9 AM Traditional 10:45 AM Contemporary Also viewable on YouTube

NON-DENOMINATIONAL

Purpose Church Orlando 13640 W Colonial Dr. Ste 110, Winter Garden (407) 654-9661

Sunday Service: 10:05 AM

Sunday Brazilian Service: 7 PM Saturday Service: 6 PM www.purposechurchorlando.org

Owners silent after pizza shop closes

ANNABELLE SIKES

NEWS EDITOR

A half-torn, weathered piece of white printer paper on the door of downtown Winter Garden business Winter Garden Pizza Company reads, “Sorry, we’re closed.” Residents were left with unanswered questions after the restaurant, located at 42 W. Plant St., appears to have closed unexpectedly as early as Friday, July 7.

Locals first took to social media to inquire about the closure, citing instances of the restaurant’s doors being locked, as well as orders being placed but not being completed.

WGPC’s website page no longer can be found, and the company’s phone number is disconnected.

The Observer contacted the restaurant’s owners, Frank and Grace Echevarria, multiple times for comment, with no response. In addition, no texts, emails or social media messages were responded to, as of press time Tuesday, July 18.

STICKY SITUATION?

Angie Sebring, a former employee of WGPC, said she worked her typical shift the morning of Friday, July 7, before the doors were locked.

“They told us to go home, that we weren’t going to be open on Saturday because we didn’t have enough ingredients,” she said. “Then, a couple of hours later, we got a text saying that we were permanently closed.”

Sebring, who worked at the establishment for almost a year, believes the restaurant was having trouble with payments.

“Honestly, we all had our suspicions that was happening,” she said. “It just happened too soon.”

Local resident Nikki Carlile posted a screenshot of a text message conversation from an anonymous source on Facebook.

“So, according to staff, WG Pizza closed yesterday afternoon around 5 p.m.,” the message reads. “Staff was told that checks are bouncing left, right and center for staff and suppliers. There’s no more money in the bank, and they’re closing the doors. It also seems some staff were not told and arrived to work this morning. One girl finally got ahold of a manager via Instagram. No managers are answering the phones and talking to staff according to the two employees we saw this morning.”

Mary Lou Kilgore took to Facebook Sunday, July 9, to inquire on the situation.

“What’s going on with Winter Garden Pizza?” she asked. “They accepted my order and payment yesterday at dinner time. Nobody (was) there at pick-up time. Door locked and (the) sign said, ‘Sorry, we’re closed.’”

Dylan Palmero, previous manager at WGPC, said he believes what happened at the restaurant is not his story to tell.

“None of the employees (who) worked there really know why they closed or the real truth,” he said.

“Everything you hear from people will just be speculation. This is just not our story to tell. It is sad that all of these good people lost their jobs.”

According to Sebring, there are about 35 employees who worked at the restaurant.

Even with the issues, Sebring said she loved her job and was upset the business closed.

“Everyone was so friendly,” she said. “The job was so easy. The amount of people I’ve met from all over and even locals who I would notice walking in the streets. It was a dog-friendly place, so even the fourlegged friends could enjoy a day out.”

City of Winter Garden officials said they do not know the status of WGPC, and heard about its closure on social media.

City officials said the city usually does not get involved with landlord or tenant issues. The city has removed the outdoor seating in front of the restaurant to convert it back to public parking spaces.

BUSINESS HISTORY

WGPC’s home was occupied previously by Davis Pharmacy for the majority of the 20th century.

William and Leah Laboy, previous owners of Orange Crate Cafe, opened WGPC April 15, 2002. The restaurant had several owners, including Michael Scorsone.

Winter Garden resident Dawn Davidson she took her children to the restaurant every Friday night.

“Continued to go even after they started doing subtle things like making the salad plates smaller because we wanted to support them,” she said. “We knew servers by name and loved our ritual pizza night. I don’t know what happened with all the ownership changes, and we stopped going as the quality dropped. I feel like the real place shut down years ago, and we’ve just been waiting for the shoe to drop. Sad for the community to lose a classic place that’s been here so long.”

Dinah Caroyl Tompkins

Carboneau also wrote on Facebook to acknowledge the company’s history.

“WG Pizza was a true iconic part of downtown Winter Garden for years with their orange crate label décor and all,” the post read. “What a shock it closed and under such awful circumstances in terms of treatment of employees. Hope whatever goes in that space reflects (the) true Winter Garden and not some highpriced boutique eatery most couldn’t afford.”

Local diners have been left with myriad questions after Winter Garden Pizza Company closed unexpectedly.

Annabelle Sikes Winter Garden Pizza Company opened in 2002.

Town of Oakland manager starting ‘Ask Andy’ meetings

Residents will have the chance to meet the new town official and get answers to their questions.

IN OTHER NEWS

n Town Manager Andy Stewart gave the Oakland Town Commission an update on the Lake Apopka Outfall project. He said town staff and Vice Mayor Mike Satterfield met with Solitude Lake Management Company officials to discuss the final stages, and the contractor agreed to remove additional sediment between the lakefront docks and extending the canal an additional 10 feet to the north. n Elected officials and town staff were reminded of the 25th anniversary celebration for Satterfield. The event will take place between 6 and 7 p.m. Tuesday, July 25, before the regular Town Commission meeting, and light refreshments will be served. Those attending should RSVP to Lynn Dattolo at ldattolo@oaklandfl. gov or (407) 6561117, Ext. 2101.

Winter Garden commission begins 2023-24 budget talks

The commission approved unanimously setting the proposed millage rate at the current rate of 4.5 mills at the Thursday, July 13, meeting.

AMY QUESINBERRY COMMUNITY EDITOR

Oakland Town Manager Andy Stewart has been in his new position for two months, and he’s been getting to know the staff, the town and its residents.

To make himself even more available to Oakland’s citizens, he announced at the July 11 Town Commission meeting he is starting a series of “Ask Andy” get-togethers. The first is scheduled for 10 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 9, at the Healthy West Orange Arts & Heritage Center at the Town of Oakland.

Also at the meeting, commissioners approved the consent agenda, which included a release of lien and satisfaction of final judgment of foreclosure on property at 532 W. Sadler Ave., as well as acceptance of improvements to two commercial sites on West Colonial Drive.

The two-parcel Kiddie Academy site, at 15708 and 15710 W. Colonial, contains a day care/learning center and a children’s swim school. The developer made improvements consisting of roadways and paving that allow an extension of Catherine Ross Road to serve future development in the areas south of Colonial Drive, as well as water and sewer facilities.

The developer, EG3 Development LLC, received impact fee credits in the amount of $199,330.

The second set of improvements accepted by commissioners was at Lakeside Church, 16001 W. Colonial. The 9.13-acre, threeparcel site, contains the church and two outparcels. The improvements were providing water infrastructure and sanitary sewer facilities to serve the three parcels. Developers also donated land to be used for the extension of Starr Street and received a transportation impact fee credit of $124,544.93

ANNABELLE SIKES NEWS EDITOR

The Winter Garden City Commission has begun its budget discussions for Fiscal Year 2023-24.

Commissioners approved unanimously setting the proposed millage at the current rate of 4.5 mills at the Thursday, July 13, meeting.

The Truth in Millage legislation timetable required the city to advise the property appraiser of the proposed millage rate no later than noon July 28.

According to City Manager Jon C. Williams’ report, the current Gross Taxable Value for the coming year is projected at $5,570,212,378.

This number represents a 12.79% increase in taxable value over FY 2022-23. The total increase is $631,616,092.

The current year rolled-back rate is 4.0908, so the proposed millage rate is greater than the rolled-back rate by 10%.

One mill will generate about $5,347,404 in revenue, budgeting at 96% of the estimated amount levied.

The FY 2022-23 budgeted ad valorem tax revenue is $21,334,736, and Williams said the city should achieve the budgeted amount. In FY 2021-22, the city budgeted $19,039,702 and recorded $19,147,737. With the current millage rate adopted, the projected AVTR is calculated at $24,063,317, budgeted at 96% of the estimated amount levied.

The rolled-back rate of 4.0908 per $1,000 would produce $21,875,160 or $2,188,158 less revenue than the 4.5 rate. Commissioners agreed also to schedule two budget public hearing dates for 6:30 p.m. Sept. 14 and Sept. 28.

IN OTHER NEWS

n The Winter Garden City Commission approved two sets of meeting minutes: Regular meeting minutes from June 8 and June 22.

n The City Commission approved unanimously the first reading of an ordinance amending the Fiscal Year 2022-23 budget for mid-year adjustments.

n Commissioners heard the first reading of an ordinance amending the buildings and building regulations chapter of the city’s code. The change would require a planning pre-application review prior to the submission of a building permit. The review would be conducted by the planning department and would expire if a subsequent building permit is not filed within six months of issuance. The ordinance was approved unanimously with the Planning and Zoning Board’s recommendation to add the four words “requiring a planning review,” to clarify the applications that do not have any planning review aspects would not be required to go through the new process.

n The City Commission approved unanimously the second renewal term for emergency debris management service with Phillips & Jordan Inc.

n Commissioners approved unanimously a contract with Cherry Lake to install landscaping and irrigation in the South Park Avenue right-of-way in the amount of $139,500.

n The City Commission approved unanimously awarding a purchase order to TD Thomson Construction Inc. to replace asphalt on Main Street in the amount of $107,490.

n Commissioners approved unanimously an interlocal cooperation agreement between Orange County and the city for community redevelopment programs under the urban county program.

n The City Commission approved, 3-1, a site plan for 455 W. Plant St. for a multi-purpose building. Commissioner Ron Mueller dissented.

n Commissioners approved unanimously a site plan for 12363 W. Colonial Drive for the Dovec Surgery Center.

n The City Commission approved unanimously the site plan and binding lot combination agreement for 11 W. Smith St. and 186 S. Main St.

n Commissioners approved unanimously the site plan for Tucker Oaks Boulevard.

n The City Commission approved unanimously the Back to School Bash special event from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 5, at Zanders Park.

n Commissioners approved unanimously the Winter Garden Police Athletic League’s Donut Dash 5K run special event from 7 to 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 4.

Breast Cancer Coach helps alleviate fears after diagnosis

AMY QUESINBERRY COMMUNITY EDITOR

Getting a breast cancer diagnosis can be frightening, but Tammy Springer-Marcotte has created a business in which she walks alongside patients as they deal with those fears. Breast Cancer Coach LLC is an online company that empowers women with education once diagnosed with the disease. She calls it a resource and support hub.

Although Springer-Marcotte is not a breast cancer survivor, she has worked in the field for her entire 35-year career, first as a mammographer and ultrasound technician and then transitioning to the industry side in medical sales.

“Through my journey, I’ve learned that there’s a big gap between women who are diagnosed and women who truly understand(ing) what’s going on,” she said. “Women need to have a better understand of what they’re diagnosed with so they can make a well-informed decision on their treatment plan.”

Springer-Marcotte knows women who have received an abnormal mammogram, are told to get a biopsy, hear the news that they have breast cancer and are told to see a surgeon.

“They’re (panicking), because now it’s going to take three weeks to get an appointment,” she said. “All they hear is cancer. ‘I’m going to die.’ … They’re on the edge. I’m here to talk them off the ledge. … That’s where I come in.”

At BCC, Springer-Marcotte walks women through their diagnosis, whether it’s helping them form well-thought-out questions to ask their doctor or to give them a shoulder to cry on.

“Let me spend time with you on the phone and cry it out and talk through it,” she said. “And now when you get to your doctor’s appointment, your head space is better … and (your) time with the doctor is more valuable.”

When Springer-Marcotte asked several physicians about her idea, many were on board with it and said they see her role as a kind of team member. One asked how he can help her succeed.

A LIGHTBULB MOMENT

Before starting BCC, a friend of Springer-Marcotte called her after receiving a breast cancer diagnosis. She talked her through many trying moments and gave her some direction as she walked this frightening path.

Springer-Marcotte said: “She’s now on the back end of chemo and radiation … and she said, ‘You’ve helped me, you don’t even know. The timing of helping me think through it, asking the right questions, if I needed a second opinion, guiding me on where I

Horse farm owner appeals city decision

ANNABELLE SIKES NEWS EDITOR

Anne Bingler, owner of Crown Pointe Equestrian, has filed an appeal against the city of Winter Garden’s decision to annex and rezone a property next to her horse farm.

The appeal was filed by S. Brent Spain, the lawyer representing Bingler, Friday, July 7, in the Ninth Judicial Circuit Court in Orange County.

In the appeal, Spain stated the city’s decision “denied the petitioner procedural due process, departed from the essential requirements of law and was not supported by competent substantial evidence.”

The measures the city approved Thursday, June 8, allows for the annexation of the 30.24-acre parcel located on Tilden Road into the city, as well as amends the Future Land Use and rezones the property to Planned Unit Development.

The approval means the development of a neighborhood with 24 homes on the subject property owned by Gotha-based developer SCMS LLC. Three of the homes would directly abut the horse farm.

BREAST CANCER COACH

WEBSITE: breastcancercoach.com

EMAIL: tammy@breastcancercoach.com

PHONE: (352) 780-1956

need to go. I feel like you guiding me really saved my life.’ Sometimes you don’t realize your impact.”

She set out to create a business model with plans to form an advisory board.

BCC also acts as a support network for patients’ caregivers and families, especially when the disease has advanced.

“The caregivers kind of get forgotten about,” SpringerMarcotte said. “They carry it all on their shoulders.”

She discussed her idea with a friend, who owns a vacation rental home near Winter Garden, and the friend offered to hold retreats at this location on a lake in the woods. Another friend, who is a yoga instructor, could hold classes.

“It’s being able to relax and get your head space into (one) of selfcare,” Springer-Marcotte said.

“THERE’S SUCH A NEED”

Olga Ivanov is the medical director at BCC and said she was excited to join the team because of Marcotte’s expertise in the field and her ability to execute the idea. She is a boardcertified and fellowship-trained breast surgeon and currently is

assistant professor of surgery at the University of Central Florida. Her role is to review each case and relay the information to SpringerMarcotte.

“I spend three minutes with Tammy, and then she can take an hour with the patient,” Ivanov said.

The two have worked together in the breast cancer field since 2011.

“We’ve been talking about this for a long time,” Springer-Marcotte said. “There’s such a need, and there’s nothing like it out there. … That’s an important piece. I don’t think women are aware of the options. When they hear that word ‘cancer,’ it’s really hard to process what doctors are saying. Doctors don’t frankly have the time to sit and talk to them (for the length of time) that some women need, and that’s where we come in.”

When a patient goes to BCC, the first appointment is to review mammogram, ultrasound, MRI and pathology reports. The next steps are to determine a plan for the patient, and BCC offers various options and price levels that include by-the-hour, a three-month breast cancer coaching program or a oneyear VIP support package.

BCC offers many services, including personalized coaching, emotional support, education and resources, and survivorship care planning. Coaches work closely with patients to develop a customized care plan that takes into consideration the patient’s unique needs, treatment options and personal preferences. Coaches allow patients a safe space in which to

express their feelings while going through a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment.

Access to accurate and up-to-date information is crucial on the breast cancer journey, Springer-Marcotte said. BCC equips patients with educational resources, reputable sources and practical tools to enhance their understanding of breast cancer, the treatment options available, survivorship, and self-care practices.

Coaches will address long-term concerns, including prevention, lifestyle changes and emotional well-being.

“We’re enabling women to take an active role in their own care and treatment journeys,” SpringerMarcotte said.

“There’s a tremendous gap between the physician who gives the diagnosis and the woman and where she stands with it emotionally and physically — and someone needs to bridge that gap,” Ivanov said.

“The petitioner will be subsequently affected by the city’s decision to annex and rezone SCMS’s property,” the document reads. “Indeed, the petitioner’s existing horse farm operations will be directly and adversely impacted by SCMS’s proposed residential subdivision and the ongoing viability of the petitioner’s agricultural operations will be directly jeopardized by the development, as proposed.”

Bingler said she cannot comment on the appeal. Spain did not respond to multiple requests for comment as of press time Tuesday, July 18. Jayne Behrle, communications and marketing manager for the city, said the city cannot comment because of the pending litigation.

Jeff Buak, a business lawyer with Foley & Lardner LLP, said his practice focuses on real property transactions, property rights, land use and zoning, real-estate development and more.

Upon reviewing the petition, he believes people will know more if and when the petitioner’s request to file an amended petition is approved.

“Right now, the petitioner has not provided details as to how the city violated their due process rights,” Buak said. “As the counsel for (the) petitioner points out, this is a ‘bare bones’ petition without specifics of how the city failed to meet the statutory requirements in Chapter 171, Florida Statutes, nor which standards within its own land development code were violated by the city.

It also does not address standing for the petitioner to bring this action.”

The project has drawn opposition from Bingler and nearby residents since the City Commission first discussed the proposed plans in March. Crown Pointe has owned the narrow plot of land along Tilden Road for almost 25 years.

Tammy Springer-Marcotte acts as a breast cancer doula of sorts for women diagnosed with the disease who might need someone walking alongside them on their cancer journey.

Amy Quesinberry

Olga Ivanov and Tammy Springer-Marcotte are working together to make a difference in the lives of women following a breast cancer diagnosis.

“Women need to have a better understand(ing) of what they’re diagnosed with so they can make a well-informed decision on their treatment plan.”

— Tammy Springer-Marcotte

Students go topsy-turvy for Gymnastics USA camp

Gymnastics USA, located in Winter Garden, currently is hosting its annual summer camp. Athletes ages 3 to 12 who are interested in the sport of gymnastics will have the opportunity to spend their summer days learning stretching exercises and how to tumble, twirl and play other games. Also, crafts are included in the daily activities offered to campers. The camp will be open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. throughout the summer. For more information, contact (407) 504-0911 or email admin-wg@ gymnasticsusa.us.

Publication Date: Thursday, August 24, 2023

Ad Space Deadline: Tuesday, August 8

Tap into the passion and commitment around Friday Night Sights by promoting your business and services to teens, alumni, parents and residents who love high school football and come out to support our kids!

Reach more than 85,000 readers + 10,000 copies will be distributed at area high school football games in September.

Includes information from all 12 public, private and charter schools in West Orange and Southwest Orange including:

• In-depth analysis of each team, including rosters, schedules and players to watch

• Features on the marching bands, cheerleading squads, JROTC programs, cheering sections and more

• Behind-the-scenes looks into all the support groups that make Friday football games happen each week

Nestled in the heart of beautiful Gotha, we pride ourselves in providing a tight community that offers students a distinctive learning environment, through an established program of educational innovation.

— ANDREA MUJICA

Campers had fun while hanging upside down from one of the bars.

Lyla Adams worked on her twirls with the help of camp coach Delaney Whatts.

Right: Nicole Trilha had a lovely time at camp.

Julia Bruzual thought about what twirl to practice next.

Aria Woodard improved her skills with the help of one of the camp coaches.

Jaxson McGee and Evan Wick watched fellow campers practice their tumbling skills.

Left: Eli Gideon was all smiles while attempting to hold himself up at one of the bars.

Isabella Zhang practiced her tumbles at the camp.

SPORTS

5

1Lake Buena Vista High School announced recently the hiring of Taj Baldwin-Kollore, who will serve as the new girls head basketball coach. BaldwinKollore will work with the girls varsity team to lead players in the upcoming 2023-24 season.

2

SouthWest Aquatics swimmer George Kudmani qualified recently for the senior championships in the 50-meter butterfly event with a time of 26.88. Furthermore, swimmer David Mendez broke recently the boys 13- to 14-year-old 100-meter butterfly record with a time of 59.75.

3

Montverde Academy is hosting its summer sports camp where athletes are able to improve their sports skills, agility and speed. Student-athletes in grades 6 through 12 are welcome to register until Friday, July 28 for the second session of the camp. Tuition is $190. For more information, visit montverde.org.

Windermere High School alumni and Florida State University pitcher Carson Montgomery recently was selected by the San Diego Padres in the 2023 MLB Draft. At 6-foot-3, Montgomery has a career ERA of 7.50 in 66 innings. His fastball usually falls within the 94- to 98-mph range, but this past spring averaged 93 mph. His slider usually falls in the mid-80 range.

4

Band of Brothers

STATE CHAMPS

Joseph Benamati

Kyle Carman

Javier Centeno

Brody Cone

Ramses De Maio

Diego Diaz

Aaron Dominguez

Kingston Ebanks

Marshall Guin

Austin Haley

Ahmed Khan

Andrew Nodal

Christopher Pedrinan

Shakir Rodriguez-Muhammad

Tyler Silk

Cameron Whitten

LOCAL SECTIONAL CHAMPS

5

Dr. Phillips High School released its sports tryout dates. Studentathletes interested in bowling will have the opportunity to try out for the team Monday, Aug. 21; for football, tryouts will take place Monday, July 31; for swimming, tryouts will take place Thursday, Aug. 3; for cross country, tryouts will take place Monday, July 31; for volleyball, tryouts will take place from Monday, July 31, to Tuesday, Aug. 1; and, for co-ed cheer, tryouts will take place Thursday, Aug. 17. Students interested in trying out for the golf teams should contact the head coach.

ANDREA MUJICA STAFF WRITER

The Dr. Phillips Little League All-Star 16U division made history Sunday, July 9, after defeating North Springs Little League 8-2 during the state championship game.

With the win, DP claimed the state championship title for the first time in league history.

“It’s awesome,” head baseball coach Michael Roy said. “I know the most common word you’ll hear is ‘surreal,’ but it is.”

A band of brothers, as they like to

call themselves, the boys have relied heavily on trust this season.

“Coaches have been great, putting up good quality practices, everybody showing up and doing their job, and just helping each other out,” shortstop, pitcher and third baseman Diego Diaz said. “Playing as a team, trusting (one another) and trusting (everyone’s) abilities. Everybody is good in this team; they are on this team for a reason. I believe teamwork is what has gotten us this far.”

Winning the state title has been a dream for many of the players on

Lake Buena Vista football coach steps down

After former head football coach at Lake Buena Vista High School, Joe Rienzi, made the decision to step down, Grant Peddy will lead the Vipers during the 2023-24 football season.

ANDREA MUJICA STAFF WRITER

Lake Buena Vista High School just bid farewell to its founding head football coach, Joe Rienzi.

“I’m going to miss everything about (Lake Buena Vista),” he said.

“It’s a program that I started. I was the first real teacher hired there. I’m going to miss the kids. I’m going to miss the community. I’m going to miss the student section on Friday nights — that was probably the best I’ve been around. It’s like moving away from your family, so it’s tough.”

Rienzi built the Vipers football program from the ground up, teaching his players everything about the game. Even though there was no plan to leave, the decision to step

down from his head football coach position came after his wife, Gabby Rienzi, was offered an opportunity to advance her professional career in the small city of Lebanon, Tennessee.

“She’s been my cheerleader for a long, long time,” Rienzi said of his wife. “I’ve been coaching for 15 years. She’s been my cheerleader for forever. So she wanted to go for an opportunity, so I said, ‘Go for it.’ … (My wife and I) put a lot of thought into the decision. … To be able to support her and be the kind of spouse that she’s been to me through my entire career, (well) it’s nice to have the opportunity to be that for her.”

Two seasons in and a handful of memories later, Rienzi will forever treasure his time at Lake Buena

Vista, the place that allowed him to live his dream. “As a coach, I had dreams, too,” he said. “I always wanted to be a head coach. I’m always going to be appreciative of Dr. (Guy) Swenson and Ms. Bradley. … They gave me an opportunity at a brand-new school … to live my dreams. But (it’s more than that). It’s the relationship with the kids — the guys you work with and the students on campus. That’s the stuff I’m going to remember the most and the stuff I’m going to hold onto.”

For Rienzi, the biggest thing he wanted to pass along to his athletes was not the fundamentals of the game but rather how to be good

The Windermere Little League 10U softball division became Section 5 champion after defeating Oviedo Little League 4-3 during the sectional championship game Sunday, July 9. The girls advanced to the state tournament that will take place the weekend of July 14 to 16 at Woodville Little League.

The Windermere Little League 11U baseball team defeated Oviedo Little League 20-0 during the Section 5 championship game Sunday, July 9. The boys advanced to the state tournament that will take place the weekend of July 14 to 16 at Zephyrhills Little League.

The Dr. Phillips Little League AllStar Major (12U) division and the All-Star Intermediate (13U) division both became sectional champions this season.

Windermere Little League’s Sophia Margelos has been a force both on the mound and in the outfield. Page 2B.

After defeating North Springs Little League 8-2 recently, the DPLL 16U division became the first team in the league to win a state championship title.

Andrea Mujica

The boys have developed a tight-knit chemistry on the field this season. The team also has a strong offense that currently boasts a .517 batting average.

Courtesy photo Joe Rienzi started the football program at Lake Buena Vista High

Sophia Margelos

Windermere Little League pitcher and outfielder Sophia Margelos was a key player for the Junior division this year. Margelos completed her season with a batting average of .431 and an OBP of 1.071. She also pitched 93 innings, struck out 140 and had a WHIP of 1.58.

Tell us about your years as a softball player.

I played baseball since I was 5 years old. And at 9 years old, I switched to softball, because I was playing all boys as I got older. I didn’t enjoy that a lot, so I switched.

Why softball and baseball?

My dad played a lot, and I also have an older brother who played. And T-ball sounded fun, so I played it, and then I really liked it so I kept playing. And then softball to me seemed kind of similar, and then I played it, and it was really fun to me.

What is your favorite memory playing softball?

When I hit my first home run when I was 12. It felt good, because it was my first one, so it was nice.

What do you love most about softball?

I like the competition and how it just keeps me happy. Whenever I feel sad, it calms me, and then the competition is nice, too. It’s a really active sport, and I met most of my friends through softball.

What do you believe softball has taught you on and off the field?

That team work is the key to success. You can’t accomplish stuff by yourself. You always need someone to help you with it.

Do you have a favorite drill at practice?

There’s an outfield drill where you run across the outfield to catch pop-ups at certain points, and then you keep going all the way across. It helps you get fast and stay focused whenever you are catching a fly ball. It helps me determine where the ball goes.

What do you think makes you a unique player on the softball field?

DPLL claims first state title

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1B

the team since they were playing on All-Star teams back when they were 8 or 9 years old. This year, that dream finally became a reality.

THE BASICS

Age: 14

Sport: Softball

Position: Pitcher, outfielder

Grade: Rising freshman

School: Windermere High

What would you like to study in college?

I kind of like the business area — especially for being an interior design artist. I really enjoy decorating things — especially my room or houses. I find that very fun.

What is your favorite hobby?

I really enjoy hanging out with my friends. I like to go shopping or swimming or somewhere fun like a themed park.

What are three things you would take with you to a deserted island?

A sketch book so I can draw, a book so I can keep myself entertained and probably a pet just to hang out with.

What TV series are you watching right now?

“The Summer I Turned Pretty.” I like that it is relatable, sometimes.

Who is you favorite superhero?

Why?

I like Thor, because I think his powers are super cool.

Who is your favorite Disney character? Why? I like Rapunzel a lot, because when I was a kid, she was my favorite princess. I like that she’s kind of like me in a way … she is super brave.

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

To fly, because I feel like there’s

“It feels crazy, knowing that we made history; that’s wild,” third and first baseman Shakir Rodriguez said. “I never even thought that would ever happen, so it means a lot. I want to thank God, because it’s crazy that we are the first to ever do (this) at (DPLL).”

Leadership on and off the field also played a huge role this season.

“I’ve watched them in the batting cages helping (one another) with the swing,” Roy said. “I watched them on the field talking about how you made this right or wrong, also making our job a lot easier. That’s made them that much more close-knit and knowing they are going to work things out. I think that’s really the biggest thing.”

The team has enjoyed much success with its offense this season. It currently owns a .517 batting average, with Aaron Dominguez leading the team with a .778 batting average and Rodriguez coming in close second with a .739 batting average.

“The biggest thing has been our consistency with our bats,” Roy said. “Our lineup, one through nine, is going to be able to hit any type of quality pitching. You throw 80- to 85-mph pitches, and we are still going to be consistently hitting.”

The boys are excited to represent Florida at the regional tournament, which takes place starting Saturday, July 22, at Safety Harbor Little League.

“I’ve been wanting to do this for a long time,” Diaz said. “Knowing you have a whole state behind you that you are trying to represent. It’s just fun.”

“I don’t really know how good the teams are going to be,” Rodriguez said. “I’m hoping they

are all right, because the teams in the state championship they were all right, not good. So, I feel like we got it.”

The ultimate goal for all members of the band of brothers and their coaches is to get on a plane and travel to North Carolina to compete in the World Series. To do this, the game plan is to earn three wins in the first three games, which will qualify the team to play on the final round of the tournament. If the team does not win three consecutive games, the boys will enter the loser bracket and will have to play a total of six or seven games prior to qualifying to the final round.

“For that, you have to be able to have a lot of depth in pitching, which we do,” Roy said. “(We want) to try to maximize the first three games with three wins and wait to see who we are going to go against later.”

DPLL will face North Carolina Little League at 10 a.m. Saturday, July 22.

Peddy will lead LBV Vipers

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1B

human beings. That’s what he wants them to remember.

“I’d like to think they’ll remember the good stuff, the fun times we had together,” he said. “I would like to think that I always told them that I want them to be decent human beings. Our team GPA increased almost an entire half point. … I hope that they realize that being a football player is a privilege, and I hope they use it to be better themselves in the future. … I ended every single practice by saying, ‘Take care of your grades; take care of your bodies. I love you guys.’ Hopefully, they understand that I do.”

Rienzi has accepted a position to teach at Lebanon High School and is looking forward to returning to coaching in the near future.

A NEW VIPER

Once a chapter ends, another begins, and the Vipers now have a new head football coach in Grant Peddy, whose training philosophy differs from Rienzi’s but still has the same goal in mind — to train good athletes and teach them, above all else, how to be great people.

“I want them to learn life lessons through football,” he said. “To me, there is no other sport that teaches life lessons better than football.”

Originally from Jackson,

Tennessee, Peddy’s background runs within the strength and conditioning world.

“Strength and conditioning is my background; football is my love,” he said. “I’ve taken the conditioning up a little bit. I believe you got to put the work in.”

Three things are at the base of what Peddy wishes to teach the boys prior to the start of the 202324 season: hard work, discipline and structure.

“We’ve got to be disciplined,” he said. “What I’ve seen here is they were ending games last year, but they weren’t disciplined. I hate to lose, but as long as our kids are competitive and they fight to the end — win or lose — I think that’s an improvement.”

Peddy was one of the coaches Rienzi was looking to hire as part of his coaching staff back in 2020, when Lake Buena Vista wasn’t yet open. However, life had another plans for him — taking him to Mount Dora High School, then Windermere High School, until he finally landed at Lake Buena Vista during the spring season.

“I’m excited for him, and I’m excited to see what he can do with his first round at being head coach,” Rienzi said. “He’s a great dude. He’s somebody that I know will be great for the kids at (Lake Buena Vista). He’s going to be a great influence on them. The kids

already like him, because he was with us in the spring. I’m excited to see him pick up the ball and run with it.”

In addition to working on the depth of the team, Peddy is looking forward to motivating the boys to become leaders within the team — and to help them believe they have the ability to win and finish all the games — while allowing them to create memories that will last a lifetime.

“I believe in a starting (practice) time, I don’t believe in a finish time,” he said. “I will tell you when I think we are going to try to stop, but I’m not going to carry that because success never stops. … (I believe) in giving the kids an experience, something they can remember, because high school is once and everybody loves high school. I believe in giving the kids a great experience and in helping them grow and develop and be good people in the community.”

want them to learn life lessons through football. To me, there is no other sport that teaches life lessons better than football.”

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

“I

— Grant

Peddy

Andrea Mujica

Grant Peddy is ready to take on the challenge of leading the Vipers for the upcming 2023-24 season.

QB Shootout, Battle in the Pit return to CFCA

More than 200 student-athletes gathered at Central Florida Christian Academy’s football field to participate in the third edition of the QB Shootout and the Battle in the Pit.

the mental aspect of the game.

The QB Shootout and Battle in the Pit returned to Central Florida Christian Academy for a third year Saturday, July 15.

“Being the third year, it’s been actually a step up,” Lo Wood, CEO and president of Excel Speed and Fitness Training LLC, said. “The reason I say step up is because of the amount of support that we received from the church this year … to bless the camp. That’s a step up because we didn’t do that the last two years.”

With more than 200 athletes participating this year, there were 21 coaches pouring their knowledge of the game into the young minds not only about what it means to be a good football players on the field but also about how to be great players in

“We had an hour presentation from the coaches who poured into the kids mentally teaching them things they can take with them to implement for the rest of their lives,” Wood said. “Then, we practice the drills and the skills.”

The QB Shootout and the Battle in the Pit presents an opportunity for athletes in the area who are interested in bettering their playing skills and learning from top-notch coaches. However, there is one thing that every athlete was expected to learn before the training sessions were over, and that is hard work equals fun.

“We ask them to take one thing from each and every one of their coaches,” Wood said. “And that is: hard work equals fun, because there is no fun in losing.”

ANDREA MUJICA STAFF WRITER

Middle school quarterbacks sharpened their throwing mechanics.

Quarterbacks Nicolas Flores, 14, and Aaron Williams, 17, passed the ball to wide receivers to work on throwing precision.

Middle school defensive linemen worked on tackling drills.

Above: Defensive back Sean Cannon, 15, learned how to properly back pedal before jumping for a catch.

Right: Lo Wood, CEO and president of Excel Speed and Fitness Training LLC, and former Dallas Cowboy player Mike Lowman at the event.

Sanibel Sea School offers special summertime experience

LILY PARKER WINDERMERE PREPARATORY SCHOOL

Over the past few weeks, I have been participating in the Counselor in Training program with Sanibel Sea School. During the weeklong camps, I worked with ages 4 through 13. In the weeks I participated, the themes represented what we were going to be learning about.

Sanibel Sea School is a hands-on experience for everyone involved. This includes seeing the different animals, going into the water to explore their habitat and creating many crafts that would explain what the animals look like. For example, in the two weeks I went, we learned about sand dollars and gopher tortoises.

My first week at camp was all about sand dollars. The age group for this week was ages 4 to 6, also

known as Sea Squirts. We started the week off by looking at baby sand dollars and learning what they do when they are born. Then, we headed into the ocean to get a closer look at the animals, which included going on a beach walk to find the dried-up sand dollars and getting to pick up one that was alive.

Throughout the rest of the week, we dived deeper into what sand dollars do, how they eat and how they have an effect on the ocean.

The following week was gopher tortoise week, also known as Island Skills week. The age group consisted of children between the ages of 7 and 13.

During this week, we learned about gopher tortoises and how they are a keystone species. A keystone species is an animal that is the center of an ecosystem.

Without the gopher tortoise, the entire ecosystem would crash.

After lunch, we prepared for the surf paddle race. To teach about the animals, we listened to a talk from an expert, got to dig burrows in the sand and played games to learn about what would happen if there were no gopher tortoises. We demonstrated what a keystone species is and how they have such a big effect on the animals around them.

Then, we prepared for the surf paddle race. This race is when you separate the campers into four different teams and teach them how to paddle on a surfboard and how to turn. The goal is to perfect their techniques and make them as fast as possible. At the end of the week, Sanibel Sea School would head into the ocean and get ready to race. They would do this by using colored sunscreen

to distinguish the different teams and come up with a team chant.

The race includes four different rounds where the points would be given out. The team who was the fastest would win the entire race and get to put their bracelet on the golden conch. Sanibel Sea School created

Lily Parker enjoyed spending time with the campers at Sanibel Sea School. Courtesy

an experience that was fun for everyone involved and allowed everyone to learn something new. Throughout my experience, I was learning something new and made friends with the campers. By the end of the week, I had made many memories that would last me a lifetime.

Ocoee sports leagues offer fun, fellowship for students

perfect for the expansion of the youth basketball and volleyball league. Additionally, there are brand-new lights to help players and the audience see the actionpacked games. The city of Ocoee logo sits in the center of the gym to show off Ocoee’s pride. The project was completed in May 2023.

“We have coaches that played in the league as kids and are now coaching,” Operations Manager Toren Hogan said. “It really reinforces the importance of recreation centers and us being a part of the community.”

is steadily growing as it brings new improvements to the beloved sports leagues and the gymnasium itself more than two years after the pandemic put a halt to nearly everything.

The most noticeable and beautiful change is the newly renovated gym, which previously had tan floors. The gym now features a light gray floor with blue accents and black bleachers,

“The new gym makes the kids more excited to play and brings in a competitive atmosphere to the gym,” returning basketball coach Alex Gonzalez said. “We’ve already had buzzer beaters, overtime games and games ending in ties. We aim to make the league as balanced and competitive as possible.”

Originally, youth basketball was only once a year and had fewer than 100 players, but with great management and support from families, the leagues grew to new heights for kids all around to enjoy their favorite recreational activities.

The youth leagues are now offered twice a year, summer and winter, and have grown with more than 225 participants in each season. Just this year, there were 265 players, ranging from ages 4 to 15.

The community has been beneficial in supporting all the programs, with parents volunteering to help out at games and step in for times when coaches are absent. Recreational aides and specialists help the games run smoothly every Saturday and relay information throughout the season. Coaches also play a key role in the league. They are the leaders of their groups and go dayin and day-out to train the young children.

Some coaches even played when they were young and wanted to come back and to teach the youth.

“I grew up playing sports, and basketball was always my favorite and what I excelled in,” Hogan said. “Coaching is my way of giving back to the community. Now that my own kids play in the league, coaching allows me to bond with them through the game of basketball.”

The youth volleyball league debuted in fall 2022. The league originally was scheduled to start in 2020, but it was postponed because of the pandemic. The new gym and community helped grow the league from its long hiatus and brought 75 girls in 2022.

The recreational leaders now

expect to have more than 100 youth play this season, which will serve as a record high for Ocoee. Registration opened July 15, with the season starting in September.

Due to the success of the youth leagues, Parks & Recreation was able to partner with the Ocoee Police Department to host a new program of late-night basketball and volleyball. The games are hosted once a month, from 7 to 10 p.m. on specific Fridays, and offer

free food and games for ages 12 to 18.

The final addition to the growing recreational activities is the new 10,000-foot Ocoee Action Sports Park, with a pump track, ramps and a grind box, located near the Ocoee Bulldog football fields. It features activities for bikers and skaters to smoothly ride the walls and jump over ramps.

Photos by Daniel Gonzalez

JONATHAN DAVID BEKEMEYER

DIED JULY 13, 2023.

Jonathan David Bekemeyer, age 67, passed away from a brief illness on July 13, 2023. Jon was born at West Orange Memorial Hospital in Winter Garden, Florida, to Fred and Mildred Bekemeyer. He was the youngest of four children, Carol Ann Bekemeyer, Pam Bloodworth (Jerry) and Fred Bekemeyer (Gwen).

Jon attended Winter Garden Elementary and Dillard Street Elementary, and graduated from Lakeview High School.

Jon received his Bachelor’s Degree in Theology and later received his Master’s Degree in Biblical Studies from Luther Rice Seminary. Jon started two local churches, Fellowship Bible Church, in MetroWest, and Grace Community Church, in Clermont, where he served as Pastor for 29-and-one-half years before retiring in July 2022.

In 2004, Jon and his wife, Amy, founded Family Matters of Central Florida. This nonprofit has assist-

WILLIAM “WILD BILL” HAYES

DIED JUNE 15, 2023.

(Valrico, Florida) William

“Wild Bill” Hayes, born Oct. 16, 1961, to James Wells and Mary Martin Hayes in Winter Park, Florida. Sadly, Bill, 62, passed away on June 15, 2023.  Bill was raised in Windermere, Florida, and graduated from West Orange High in 1979. He attended UCF and worked in the survey equipment sales field in Orlando and Tampa for 20-plus years.

Bill is survived by his wife, Lois K. Hayes; daughter, Jessica Hayes; and sons, Tommy and Danny Riotto, of Tampa. Also, survived by his parents and siblings Tom Hayes,

SCHOOL BRIEFS

YOUTH GRADUATE FROM SEMINARY PROGRAM

$895

ed more than 1,000 children and families in Lake County through its counseling and tutoring programs.

Services were held at the Grace Community Church in Clermont, 14244 John’s Lake Road, Clermont, Florida 37411 at 11 a.m. Monday, July 17, 2023. The family received guests at 10:30 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Family Matters of Central Florida (familymatterscfl. org); or Family Matters of Central Florida, 387 Seminole St., Clermont, Florida 34711. Arrangements by: Cremation Choices, Minneola, cremationchoicesfl.com or (352) 394-8228.

While many high school seniors celebrated their high school graduation this last month, 19 local seniors were able to celebrate a second graduation June 4 in honor of completing the Orlando West Stake Seminary program of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

For the last four years, these students have awakened early, before school, to study the scriptures and attend seminary classes together. They were joined by more than 100 other high school students from 11 local congregations that participate in the program.

They met together in homes, church buildings and over Zoom to study the life of Jesus Christ and the scriptures. They were taught by local volunteers who teach each morning in addition to their regular work schedule and family responsibilities. To qualify for seminary graduation, a student must attend eight semesters of study.

It is a sacrifice for these dedicated students to wake up each morning before school to study the scriptures together, but well worth it, president Hansen said.

Julie Hayes Boniec, Dan Hayes; and, too many nieces and nephews to mention. Bill was an avid Miami Dolphins fan. Bill enjoyed the dad role, as his family is most important and visited with friends at their annual Wakulla Cocoa Beach gathering.

Graduating student Katie Whitney said: “My seminary experiences this semester has taught me to truly love God. I didn’t use to look forward to seminary, but now it’s somewhere I genuinely want to be, helping me prioritize the Lord every day.”

“We are so thankful for the dedicated efforts of our seminary

students and their instructors, who very often sacrifice their early-morning hours to study the Gospel of Jesus Christ,” said Hansen, who oversees the 13 local congregations that are part of the Orlando West Stake. “Their commitment to follow Him in their daily lives is heartwarming and wonderful to witness.”

Seminary is a worldwide, religious educational program for youth ages 14 through 18 and is open to teenagers of all faiths. The four-year program is sponsored by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

For more information about the seminary program, visit churchofjesuschrist.org.

KIDDIE ACADEMY HOSTS GRAND OPENING

The Kiddie Academy of Oakland celebrated its grand opening last weekend. The child care program offers services for infants through age 12. The grand opening event, which took place Saturday, July 15, included a ribbon-cutting ceremony, bounce house, face painting and a special visit from Disney characters.

The Kiddie Academy opened its first location more than 40 years ago, and the company now has more than 300 academies serving more than 37,000 students.

“We’re driven—through our passion for early childhood education, community commitment and Life Essentials philosophy—to prepare children for school and for life,” Kiddie Academy’s website reads. “We’re here to educate and encourage your child to do more and be more—not just while they’re with us, but outside the classroom. We believe curiosity and learning generate their own momentum,

and we’re dedicated to developing what’s unique in every child we care for.”

For more information about the Kiddie Academy of Oakland, call (407) 961-6060.

FOUNDATION SEEKS NEW STAFF MEMBERS

Foundation Academy is looking to fill an empty position for the 2023-24 school year.

The director of family enrichment is key to furthering the mission of the school and reports to the vice president of development.

The director must develop and maintain active and productive relationships with parents, along with faculty and leadership, according to the job posting.

In addition, the director will support key events for the school, as well as manage special interest groups, secure branding and sponsorships from local businesses, apply for grants and manage committees as needed.

The school also is searching for a director of spiritual development, elementary teachers and substitute teachers.

Those who wish to learn more information should visit foundationacademy.net.

GARDEN THEATRE HOSTS SUMMER CAMP

Orlando Health is the sponsor of the summer camp programs at the Garden Theatre.

About 150 students have enrolled in summer camps, and the number continues to grow each week. Through the sponsorship Orlando Health provides, the theater has been able to provide six full scholarships to camp this summer and still has funds remaining for others.

ORANGE HISTORY

THESE OLD TIMES FROM THE WINTER GARDEN HERITAGE FOUNDATION

110 years ago

A.B. Newton was putting a bathroom and lavatory into his house.

Compiled from The Winter Garden Progress, by W.B. Burch: “We are sorry to say Hoyle Pounds, one of our baseball boys, got his nose broken during the game at Winter Park. The score was 15-4 in favor of Winter Park.”

90 years ago

Raymond G. Dickson Plumbing Company moved from the Garden City Garage to 24 E. Plant St.

The possibility of closing the Ocoee High School and sending its students to Winter Garden was disclosed by members of the County Board of Education when members inspected the local high school building. According to Superintendent Judson B. Walker, there was a new state ruling that if two high schools were within 10 miles of each other, one would be closed.

Winter Garden went on the air with a program from 8:30 to 9 p.m. over station WDBO, Orlando.

Members of the Knights of the Ku Klux Klan of Orange County announced a rally at the Winter Garden American Legion Hall.

Mr. and Mrs. Joe Griffith announced the arrival of a son born at the Griffith home. The young child was named Donald Morris.

The First National Bank of Winter Garden listed its resources at $283,221.11, according to J.S. Fairchild, cashier.

60

years ago

The pink ladies of West Orange Memorial Hospital Auxiliary were in the throes of planning to publish a cookbook.

The West Orange Federal Savings and Loan Association an -

FROM THE ARCHIVES

A Waverly Brands citrus truck and four employees are seen in this photograph. At left: Joe B. Austin, the brother of citrus grower Lester Austin Sr., who grew citrus in the Winter Garden area and shipped from the South Lake Apopka Citrus Growers Association. Three unidentified men stand to Austin’s left. Waverly is located in southern Polk County, where citrus cultivation is practiced despite many challenges. Photo courtesy of Valerie Bronson, who shared the image with the Winter Garden Heritage Foundation.

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.

nounced 4.25% per annum current rate compounded quarterly.

50 years ago

The Ocoee Fire Department rolled out its “emergency room on wheels.” The department had 11 volunteers who qualified as emergency medical technicians. The EMTs were on call once the vehicle was in full service, and any one of them was capable of handling many types of emergen -

cies with the sophisticated gear on board. The EMTs were expected to make arrangements with West Orange Memorial Hospital to take a course on the electrocardiogram machine, which the ambulance carries to monitor a person’s heartbeat.

Doug Chaulk and R.M. “Best” Downing began operating a mobile home sales lot called D & B Mobile Homes, which specialized in bank-repossessed mobile

THROWBACK THURSDAY

JULY 19, 1973

Entertainment was hard to come by in West Orange County in the 1970s, and only a handful of businesses offered live music and theater productions. In the July 19, 1973, issue of The Winter Garden Times two venues advertised their entertainment.

Patrons of the Winter Garden Inn could enjoy 60-cent drinks during Happy Hour while listening to Steven Douglas work his magic on the organ in the Gold Lion Room.

Across town, at Once Upon a Stage, a dinner theater centrally located at Par and Edgewater, dreamy stage, screen and TV star Fabian was performing in the comedy “The Tender Trap.”

homes. It was located on South Bluford Avenue in Ocoee.

Dr. L. Linton Deck Jr., new superintendent of Orange County Public Schools, spoke to the Rotary Club of Windermere. He was welcomed by club president Dave Bergman and introduced by Don Shaw, principal of Hiawassee Elementary School.

celebrity cipher

By Luis Campos

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

NOGUX APW ZWOXNUL.”

OXZUIO DUWGUI

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XRZVN U NRVIYRGUV ZC U GUIIRD FW BKFZBR.” OZV SZRCRY

“E’L FTS D GEZ CDF TC SDPUEFZ DGTXS

AJEFZ. DFA SMKF E LDUK D LTOEK

RMKHK E UEPP KOKHJGTAJ.”

AEHKBSTH DGKP CKHHDHD © 2023 NEA, Inc.

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

SILENCE IS GOLDEN by Michael Berg, edited by Jeff Chen

But Wait ... THERE’S MORE!

LOOKS GOOD ON US

Live & Love Local Winter Garden

The rich history of Winter Garden has flourished with the most memorable restaurants, shops, museums, parks, and activities.

IT’S TIME TO MAKE MEMORIES THAT WILL LAST A LIFETIME.