08.24.23 Southwest Orange Observer

Development draws residents’ ire

ANNABELLE SIKES

NEWS EDITOR

Hamlin-area residents aren’t thrilled with a developer’s request to rezone three parcels north of Schofield Road and west of Avalon Road.

The applicant, Scott M. Gentry, Kelly, Collins & Gentry, is requesting to rezone 29.58 gross acres from Citrus Rural District to Planned Development. The proposal is to construct a maximum of 100 multifamily residential dwelling units, 169,705 square feet of non-residential uses and 26 hotel rooms.

However, during a community meeting Tuesday, Aug. 15, members of the applicant team said they believe there is less than 50% chance the property will be used for multi-family use; instead it likely will be used to save the high demand for commercial and retail use.

COMMUNITY CONFUSION

Orange County Case Planner Doug McDowell led the presentation and explained PD zoning is required for all new development in the Horizon West Special Planning Area. The development must comply with the Horizon West Town Center PD code. One resident voiced concerns

about traffic and congestion in the area.

“Have you guys ever driven by the public schools and looked at the parking lots?” he asked. “The apartments that they’re building in this area; this whole area is so stinking congested.

We don’t have the infrastructure … our cell phone towers don’t even work. Planned development? There’s no planning involved. It’s just people with money coming in and building apartments. … We don’t need more apartments.”

McDowell said there is a new comprehensive plan in development that will help to mit-

igate some of the concerns residents have about rapid growth.

“I can tell you about the processes we go through, and yeah, there are things we need to fix, and we’re working on them,” McDowell said.

“It’s just very difficult when you’re in

a very rapidly growing area. … It can be very frustrating for the residents to see what’s going on and then have to deal with the things, and it just takes local government sometimes to catch up to things.

“We’ve got a new comp plan that’s in process,” he said. “We’re hoping to have it adopted by the end of the year. We’re hoping that’s going to address a lot of concerns. It’s going to give us a new code to work with that’s going to make it more flexible for us and the developers to do the right thing, we hope, and that will help solve some of these problems. It will get rid of some of the traffic problems, it will make areas a little more walkable, hopefully a little more safe.”

The applicant team said the development will most likely be non-residential — either office or retail.

“We don’t really see the site as a multi-family site,” a developer representative said. “Like all planned developments, and virtually all of them in Horizon West, when this gets approved, the land uses identified here are simply the land uses that were identified in the overall Horizon planned special map. But because this is only a 30-acre site, most projects, most PDs, will have a land use equivalency matrix based upon transportation, trip generation, and you’ll be able to convert it into multi-family units, residential, office or into retail use.”

However, the statement confused many residents in attendance.

“So we’re here at a community meeting discussing 100 multi-family, yet

you feel there’s a 50-50 chance there will be zero multi-family here?” one resident asked. “I’m a little confused as to why we’re having this meeting about something that’s written down.

… It said there’s 169,705 square feet of non-residential; what really are you thinking is going to go along here versus what is written down?”

Members of the applicant team said the development is still flexible, but they believe there is more retail demand because of the proximity of the site to the interchange.

“So are we going to have another community meeting?” the resident asked. “When you finally decide what’s actually going on this property, what will our opportunity be to have another conversation with you regarding what’s actually going to be on that property versus what’s actually on this page?”

The applicant team members said when the development plan is reviewed, there will be another opportunity for public comment. There is not another community meeting scheduled, unless Orange County District 1 Commissioner Nicole Wilson asks for one.

“They have not given us a more specific development plan at this stage, and they don’t have to,” McDowell said.

A public hearing for the request will next be held before the Orange County Planning and Zoning Commission before heading to the Orange County Board of County Commissioners. Both dates are to be determined.

The subject property is located in Horizon West north of Schofield Road and west of Avalon Road.

FAMILIAR FACES

EDITOR’S

NOTE: Familiar Faces is an ongoing feature in which we spotlight people you have seen but whose stories you may not know. If you want to nominate someone for a future edition, please email Editor and Publisher Michael Eng, meng@orange observer.com.

Chaplain Andy Jones

When the local police and fire departments need a pastoral presence, they all reach out to one person: Andy Jones.

Jones is the chaplain for the Winter Garden, Oakland and Windermere police departments; and the Winter Garden and Ocoee fire departments; as well as at Life Choices Women’s Clinic in Clermont.

He describes his role as being in the ministry of presence. If there is a crash on the side of the road, Jones is there to provide comfort to the people involved with and without injuries.

“We had an incident where we had a lady who was looking for her daughter, and they came in town looking for her daughter because she had disappeared overnight,” Jones said. “It was a collaboration – Orange County and Florida Highway Patrol – and they found themselves in our jurisdiction, and they found her daughter had committed suicide. I was called in for that.”

Jones is there in someone’s time of need, and it is his job to find out how he can offer his assistance — whether it’s speaking to one family member, an entire family or at the deceased person’s funeral service.

“This is a calling, and once I found out what it was, God cut me out to be able to do this,” Jones said. “He gives me an extra measure of confidence, clarity and compassion that does not come from me. At the end of the day, when I’ve been able to help someone, if you ask me what I said, I honestly couldn’t tell you because it’s what (was in my heart) at the moment.

“It’s a calling,” he reiterated. “If you get into it because it’s a position or the notoriety or the badge you carry, then you’re not in it for the right reason. I love being able to serve my Savior, and this is the greatest opportunity for me to do this.”

Jones is in his seventh year of serving the Windermere Police Department and has been with the Oakland Police Department for six and the Winter Garden Police Department for two. In the last year, he has become chaplain of the Ocoee and Winter Garden fire departments, as well.

“For me, the most important part is … introducing the Savior to people without preaching to them,” Jones said. “When you can live a life where someone can see

something inside of you that’s worth emulating or worth curiosity, then I feel I’ve done what the Father has asked me to do. And it helps that I love people. I genuinely love people.”

TAKING A DETOUR Jones, the owner of Orlando Quality Painting, decided he wanted to serve people and went to the Orange County Sheriff’s Office to inquire about becoming an auxiliary officer. He was accepted into the program but soon discovered his knees wouldn’t allow him to responsibly handle the work.

He was talking to his best friend, Windermere Police Chief Dave Ogden, who asked him if he had ever considered being a chaplain.

“I didn’t even know what that was at the time,” Jones said. “He said, ‘What do you want to accomplish?’ (I said), ‘I want to help people and serve people.’ After we had a conversation, I said, ‘Dave, why would you ask me to become your chaplain?’ This is what makes me want to be a chaplain even more: He said, ‘Because I trust you.’”

Ogden’s office has a glass table full of challenge coins, and Jones said the chief obtained each one of those because he affected someone.

“This is what I want my life to represent: ‘You listened to me, you heard me, you prayed with me, and you made a difference in my life,’” Jones said. “If I can’t do that, I’m not an effective person, I’m not an effective chaplain.”

‘IF GOD CAN MAKE A CHANGE

IN SOMEONE LIKE YOU’

Jones was born at Winter Park Memorial Hospital 63 years ago. He was raised in a Southern Baptist church and said any time the doors were open, his family was there. Once he was old enough, he cleaned the church and preached sermons in it. As a student at Lyman High School, he was known as a “Bible thumper” because he always had the Good Book in his back pocket.

But all that changed when he attended college.

“When I became college age, I became a complete wreck,” Jones said. “Everything

I learned went out the door. People who knew me back then (have said), ‘If God can make a change in someone like you, He can in anyone.’”

Jones and his wife, Carolann, started attending Discovery Church 32 years ago, and it was there that the couple renewed their faith in Christ. They have been married nearly 37 years, but they have known each other since he was 13 and she was 11. Jones said the day they met, he told her he would marry her one day and she laughed at him. They now have three children ages 35, 31 and 26 and three grandchildren ages 5, 3 and 1. The grands call them Moose and Lemon.

When Jones says his favorite activity is riding his Harley, what he means is he likes driving his Sebring convertible, which he named Harley, with the top down.

“My wife said that’s the closest I’m ever going to get to a motorcycle,” he said. “I have a few friends who were killed (on a motorcycle), and she asked me to never get one, and I accommodated that.”

Jones’ bucket list doesn’t include the typical travel destinations and wild adventures. Instead, it’s a different kind of fulfillment.

“I have survived two strokes, one brain surgery and myriad other things that have happened to me,” he said. “My bucket list … is to give my life away for the rest of my life serving God in this capacity.”

Serving as a pastor and a chaplain is one part of that. Another is his role with the IronMen of God organization: He is starting a sub-ministry called The Call, and its purpose is to serve first and responders and their wives and families.

“I used to have these crazy ideas and aspirations, but in 2019, I had a stroke, and I became blind,” Jones said. “I lost my vision and lost the feeling on the right side of my body. And in five minutes, I realized that my life had changed forever. Two-and-a-half hours, later it came back. No matter how strong you are or how wise you are, none of that matters. The journey in that twoand-a-half hours I went through, I realized that day that I wanted to spend the rest of my life … serving in this chaplain capacity.”

Meeting Dave Ogden, the Windermere police chief, through IronMen of God changed the trajectory of Jones’ life, he said.

“I have a sense of purpose; a greater sense of purpose,” Jones said. — AMY QUESINBERRY

WHAT THEY’RE SAYING

“Chaplain Jones’ mission is to provide spiritual guidance and service to anyone in need, and his willingness to respond to any incident is comforting. As a police department head, I can say that we are very lucky to have Chaplain Andy Jones as a part of the Oakland family.”

— Oakland Police Chief Darron Esan

“We are fortunate to have Chaplain Andy Jones at the Windermere Police Department. His role is unique and has benefited the officers, our employees and residents. Chaplains can provide emotional and spiritual support, crisis intervention, confidentiality, moral and ethical guidance, and family support, which are vital to community relations.

“Andy is one of my closest personal friends and was brought aboard as we were still rebuilding the image of this police department. He demonstrates sincere compassion for people that simply stands out. I have witnessed him provide comfort and support to people in their worst crisis moments and with an ability to connect with them that simply can’t be taught.”

Windermere Police

Chief Dave Ogden

“He has shown me that he genuinely cares about our first responders and provides for emotional and spiritual support for our men and women. He is on the Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) team, which debriefs first responders after a difficult scene that they have experienced. He may also respond to a scene to provide comfort to a victim or a relative of one. He does these things as a volunteer, and we appreciate his assistance.”

Winter Garden Police Chief Steve Graham

“Andy Jones is a great man and a brother in Christ. I have actually known Andy for the last couple of years through the IronMen of God men’s ministry that my fire marshal, Shawn Sorenson, and I have been attending almost every Friday morning.

“The department has been using another chaplain for the last 15-20 years who has been and still is a great blessing to our crews and our department.

“After meeting Andy, I almost immediately thought he would be a great resource to our department — not to replace our current chaplain but to supplement him. These great men have full-time jobs and family lives and are often stretched thin for their service, so having two available to us helps to fill in those times when the other is not available.

“(It’s) a happy occasion when we have our department chaplains come in to provide a word of encouragement and prayer to department and members. But their primary role for the department and our crews is to help us in dealing with the emotional impact following a traumatic or heart-breaking scene.

“Andy has been one of our two chaplains for only a brief time, but knowing Andy through IronMen of God gives me great confidence that he will be a great resource to the Ocoee Fire Department and our crews in our time of need.”

— Ocoee Fire Chief Tom Smothers

“Andy Jones exemplifies the crucial role that chaplains play in providing unwavering spiritual and emotional support to both firefighters and their families. Through his dedicated service, (he) has brought about profound positive impacts.

— Winter Garden Fire Chief Jose Gainza

Amy Quesinberry

The pastor serves in the role of ministry of presence to three police departments and two fire departments in West Orange County.

Allen’s Creamery to close next month Observer

AMY QUESINBERRY COMMUNITY EDITOR

Allen’s Creamery & CoffeeHouse has been the destination for family outings, playdates and first dates since it opened in Windermere in 2008. But all that’s left will be memories when the ice cream shop closes its doors after the Friday, Sept. 22, Food Truck Night.

Brothers Matt and Mark Allen and their wives, Amy and Anne, respectively, are the owners of the popular downtown business, and have loved being in the heart of the town and its activities for so long.

The Allens were saddened to share the news of their closing on their Facebook page last week.

“When we opened the shop over 15 years ago, our goal was to offer this wonderful community a local ice cream shop much like the one we grew up with,” they posted. “Hopefully, we accomplished this! … We hope we have provided as many happy memories to families and friends of our community as you have provided for us. The fond thoughts of the many events and milestones here will forever live in our hearts.”

‘A FUN PLACE FOR PEOPLE TO GATHER’

When the Allens were looking to open a business downtown, their initial thought was to use the building as a real-estate office.

“We decided to get into the food business,” Matt Allen said. “We grew up in a very small town in upstate New York and just wanted to replicate the ice cream shop we grew up with. … That was kind of the premise of it. … We ended up opening our real-estate office across the street.”

Ice cream was the easiest option in the food business.

“It was a vision for us to provide a fun place for people to gather,” Matt Allen said. “At that time … there wasn’t a whole lot of anything down here, and the thought was to bring families down here and to help with the schools and be a partner with them and do events.”

The owners recently hosted a book-signing event for Dr. Gregor Alexander, the famed NICU physician who befriended Matt and Amy Allen when their son, Ashton, was born 17 weeks early.

Allen’s Creamery has been the site of many birthday parties and family gatherings. On the shop’s Facebook page, folks responded with dozens of memories of time spent sharing ice cream with loved ones at Allen’s.

Mary Phillips thanked the Allens on the shop’s Facebook page for giving her her first job.

Others thanked them for providing the setting for so many wonderful memories with family and friends.

Soon after the ice cream shop opened its doors, Shelley Ball Bradford and her husband, Darren Aklan, went to Allen’s after playing volleyball at the church across the street.

“We thought, ‘What can we do that’s quick?’” Bradford said. “He said, ‘How about ice cream?’ So we went there, and we sat there and talked for several hours. When I told him last night, he said, ‘Oh, we have to go back.’ Every time I drive by, I think, ‘That’s where we sat.’”

The couple will go back again so she can order her mint chocolate chip and he can get his vanilla ice cream.

“It was just this quaint little place, and I feel like they’re disappearing, and it’s kind of sad,” Bradford said.

Erin Deniz and her friend Kalyn

ALLEN’S CHALLENGE

Every once in a while, some brave person tried the 11-scoop Allen’s Challenge, originally called the Allen’s Chain of Lakes Challenge because of the 11 lakes in the chain.

“It was around the time they were doing a lot of food challenges, and we were trying to come up with something fun and to promote,” Matt Allen said.

Anyone who finished 11 scoops of ice cream in 15 minutes received an Allen’s T-shirt.

“We’ve given away so many T-shirts,” he said. “It’s beyond me how people can finish these. I’ve never tried it; I never want to. … People have tried and succeeded, and lots have tried and failed.”

Reoples frequently set up summer playdates for their children, Olivia Deniz and Finn Staples. The 7-yearold best friends like going to the Windermere Library to check out books before stopping by Allen’s Creamery for Superman ice cream.

“They get their own table, the high-top table,” Deniz said. “We get relegated to the couches, and they can talk about whatever they want.”

The shop was one of the first places Olivia visited after she was born.

Meredith Gaylord and her husband, Scott, have four children, and each one had a scheduled birth, so the couple made it a tradition to go to Allen’s for ice cream — soft-serve chocolate for her and Moose Tracks for him — the night before the baby was born.

“It was just our special place,” Gaylord said. “My husband and I found it walking through downtown even before we had kids. It was cute and quaint, and had character. When we had kids, it was their first time having ice cream.”

The Gaylords now live in Maitland and will drive to Windermere one more time to indulge in some Allen’s Creamery ice cream, including sherbet for the 5-year-old and Superman for the 7-, 10- and 12-year-olds.

“I haven’t even told our kids yet,” she said. “They’re going to be devastated.”

Elizabeth Belcher is another mom who is planning a final ice cream date with her children.

“We used to ride our bikes there when we lived in Gotha,” she said. “They loved the bubblegum ice cream; they always liked the bright-colored stuff. Everyone was just so nice. It was nice to be able to relax after school.”

Jayden Belcher and Amiah Belcher were in elementary school when the tradition started, and they now are 22 and 21, respectively.

Elizabeth Belcher’s final order will be banana or classic vanilla ice cream, although she recalls occasionally ordering the blue ice cream because it reminded her of the Smurf ice cream she got at Kings Island as a child.

“It was just such a good feeling going in there,” she said of Allen’s. “It was just a nostalgic feeling in that store. It always felt good to go there. And it was always nice to sit outside on their patio and enjoy the weather and people watch.”

The Allens said they are touched by the positive comments people have been sharing.

“I read one: ‘I used to bring my grandkids here, and it used to be our little hiding spot,’” Matt Allen said. “Dads would come here to bond, and moms would bring their kids. That means more to us … because I remember after playing baseball our parents would take us to the ice cream shop. Those memories will last forever.”

The ice cream establishment had its share of regulars, including Roger Tome, the father-in-law of Windermere Mayor Jim O’Brien. Tome loved getting ice cream and sitting on a bench near the storefront. When he died in 2014, the Allens added a plaque to the bench in Tome’s memory.

FROM BUBBLEGUM TO BUTTER PECAN

Children tend to go for the brightest flavors in the freezer, so the Allens stocked plenty of Superman, Smurf and Bubblegum. The shop also was known for its milkshakes.

Through the years, the Allens tried to venture beyond regular ice cream. They offered nitrogen ice cream for a while, as well as doughnuts, barbecue and sandwiches, but Matt Allen said the pandemic forced them to start fresh and concentrate solely on ice cream.

The popularity of Allen’s wasn’t limited to the younger crowd, either. Older generations frequented the shop — and usually with some requests that reminded them of their younger years.

“Somebody wanted Rum Raisin, so we got it for him,” Matt Allen said. “Or they want malt in their milkshakes. I’ve had people come in and ask for root beer floats. We started carrying root beer for floats. … If somebody said they wanted something, we tried to find a way to accommodate that.”

COMMUNITY-ORIENTED

As much as Allen’s sold ice cream, it also was a valued partner in the community and offered discounts or free treats and hosted many community events.

Allen’s has hosted Halloween and Christmas events for years. The shop has offered $1 ice cream to students and created 60 pre-made ice cream treats for classes at Holy Family Catholic Church. Students and their parents made regular visits after school.

“We’ve always done that type of thing,” Matt Allen said.

O’Brien moved to Windermere the same year Allen’s opened, and he

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recalled the annual Day of Civics for Windermere Elementary School fifth-graders. Students walked to downtown Windermere to visit with town officials, learn about the town’s history and eat some ice cream at Allen’s.

“They’ve been a big supporter through the years,” O’Brien said.

He recalled the day Windermere Police Officer Robbie German was killed in the line of duty and how quick the Allens were to offer support.

“That happened very early in the morning, and, of course, we had a lot of people at the police station — town staff, Town Council, residents, officers,” O’Brien said. “It happened at like 3 in the morning; we were still there at like 5 or 6 in the morning. I called (the Allens), and they came in and got us coffee and doughnuts.

“I think they brought all of the doughnuts over,” he said.

The mayor made his own memories with his family through the years. He and his wife, Kristin, took their children, Jacob, now 22, and Emily, 16, for scoops of Rum Raisin, Strawberry, Heavenly Hash, Superman and Cookies & Cream.

“What a fantastic little business that truly has a heart in our community,” O’Brien said. “They’ve just been a total asset, and we loved having them. It’s sad to see the chapter close. … We’re going to miss them.”

The Allens will continue to focus on their commercial and residential realestate business.

“We thought about relocating, but not at this time,” Matt Allen said. “We had had offers to expand and whatnot, but the idea wasn’t to get rich off this business. It was to give to the community.”

As they wrap up their final month offering ice cream and community to downtown Windermere, the Allens want everyone to know how grateful they are for the kind words and memories.

“It’s been an honor to feel the support,” Matt Allen said. “We’ve all said we’re sad — we’re sad-happy to at least hear from the community all these wonderful stories and the pictures.”

The building at 528 Main St. and the one next to it will be torn down to make room for a new project that will include restaurants, retail and office space.

To contact us, email to Michael Eng, meng@OrangeObserver.com.

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Rachel Martin Photography

Brooke Allen had her senior photos taken at her parents’ ice cream shop in Windermere.

Amy Quesinberry

Ashton Allen enjoyed the Superman ice cream.

Courtesy photos

Windermere Mayor Jim O’Brien’s children, Jacob and Emily, made many visits to Allen’s Creamery.

Right: A bench outside the shop was dedicated to O’Brien’s father-in-law.

County to buy 20 Reams Road acres for conservation

The Orange County Commission approved the Orange County’s Green PLACE program to protect the land.

WHAT IS GREEN PLACE?

Orange County created the Green PLACE — Park Land Acquisition for Conservation and Environmental Protection — program to acquire and protect environmentally sensitive lands in the 1990s. By 2009, the county had acquired more than 23,000 acres of land through purchase, donation or partnership. Although the program was unfunded for many years, in 2021, the Orange County Board of County Commissioners approved a goal of acquiring an additional 23,000 acres of environmentally sensitive land before the year 2030, with a budget of $100 million. The funding has enabled county staff to begin evaluating more than 1,000 parcels for potential acquisition. The total land area currently designated for conservation in Orange County by private owners, as well as local and state governments, is 101,240 acres, including the properties protected under the program.

SIKES NEWS EDITOR

Environmentalists are celebrating a win for conservation following the county’s approval of the purchase of more than 20 acres in Horizon West at an Orange County Board of County Commissioners meeting Tuesday, July 25.

At the meeting, the commission approved Orange County’s Green PLACE’s request to purchase 20.845 acres of land along Reams Road for $2.7 million.

The property is directly adjacent to a stretch of Reams Road that was closed for several weeks due to flooding after Hurricane Ian. County officials said the land was selected for water resource protection, as well as the enhancement and protection of an existing wildlife corridor.

Beth Jackson, environmental program supervisor of natural resource management for the county, said a healthy, natural environment, including air, water and other natural resources such as forests, wetlands and groundwater, are essential to a community’s overall well-being.

“The Green PLACE program provides benefits to Orange County residents, flora and fauna communities, and the region’s economy,” Jackson said. “Fourteen Green PLACE natural areas are open to the public for nature-based recreation and provide a muchneeded respite from the stresses of daily urban life. Additionally, these areas help preserve habitat for plant and wildlife species and help

preserve water resources. Finally, there are increased opportunities for ecotourism, reduction in some infrastructure costs, and can even act as amenities to help the region attract new employers.”

PROPERTY PRESERVATION

Jackson said the parcel located along Reams Road was brought to the attention of county environmental officials by District 1 Commissioner Nicole Wilson.

The property was evaluated according to the county’s established criteria and identified as having a significant potential to support wildlife and enhance an existing wildlife corridor.

“The conservation of wetlands — like these under Green PLACE — is a win-win scenario,” Wilson said.

“Following last year’s hurricanes, the Reams Road area was impacted by flooding for weeks. There are significant road improvements coming to help prevent this on both Reams and Ficquette, but a root cause of the flooding is the overdevelopment of environmentally sensitive areas. Wetlands are incredibly effective at mitigating floods — not to mention the shelter they provide for many species that are finding themselves increasingly boxed in. I’m excited that this property and its inhabitants will be undisturbed for years to come.”

The road improvement projects are currently in the process of acquiring right of way. The project is set to be completed between 2027 and 2029.

Horizon West resident Don Kendzior, a naturalist and president of Noah’s Notes, a nonprofit environmental organization, has worked to preserve the wildlife corridor in the area. He also sits on the Green PLACE board.

“As development destroys more and more of our natural environ -

ment, it is important for the county to preserve parcels like this to ensure quality of life for residents through the provision of green space, flood mitigation, and preservation of biodiverse habitat and wildlife corridors,” he said. “The acquisition of this parcel within the Green PLACE repository will give the community much-needed green space and preserve wetlands critical for mitigating flood potential, as well as saving our native flora and fauna.”

Although the purchase was approved, the parcel currently is in the acquisition process, and the transaction has not been completed.

Jackson said the first steps toward approval of the acquisition include an appraisal; agreement on a purchase contract between the current property owners and the county; due diligence including an environmental assessment, surveys and title research; and final closing and transaction.

“Once the property legally changes hands, Orange County staff can

propose a change in its designated future land use to preservation,” she said. “This change will need to be approved by the Board of County Commissioners before being recorded on the county’s Future Land Use Map. Finally, Orange County’s Environmental Protection Division will start managing the land, including the removal of invasive species and enhancements to existing habitats.”

If approved, the property will add to existing privately owned areas that were set aside for conservation in the western part of the county.

The county is hoping to close on the property by the end of the year.

Jackson said Green PLACE’s goal is to continue to look for opportunities to preserve environmentally sensitive lands throughout Orange County.

Those who own property or are aware of a property that is listed, or may become listed, for sale can reach out to the Green PLACE program at GreenPLACE@ocfl.net.

ANNABELLE

Courtesy

The 20.845 acres of land along Reams Road was selected for water resource protection, as well as the enhancement and protection of an existing wildlife corridor.

Windermere leaders discuss Town Hall enhancements

ANABELLE SIKES

NEWS EDITOR

The town of Windermere hosted the second virtual public information workshop regarding Town Hall enhancements Wednesday, Aug. 16. Public Works Director Tonya Elliott-Moore said renovations to Town Hall are necessary to ensure the protection of the establishment now and in the future.

At the first virtual public information workshop, residents expressed concerns as to how the changes would impact the property’s historical designation.

“I have had discussions with staff members at the Florida Trust for Historic Preservation, and (they) stated in writing to me that (because) no federal or state funds are involved at this time, their role in this project would be extremely limited,” Elliott-Moore said. “However, they are happy to serve in an advisory capacity as needed. So, if Healthy West Orange funds can be used for this project, then potentially there will be no need for state or federal funds.”

Elliott-Moore said she will

continue to have discussions with the Florida Trust for Historic Preservation as the town moves forward in the process.

PROJECT PLANNING

Resident Brandi Haines still has concerns about the historic designation because of the significant modifications being made to the property.

“It says significant modifications may result in removal from the (National Register of Historic Places), and based on the experience I’ve had with projects in the past, changing roof lines (and) adding extensions, is what they consider to be a significant modification, which would in fact then remove it,” she said. “So, if no drawings have been looked at or anything like that, I’m not sure we really have the full answer on that part of it.”

Elliott-Moore said the town sent the organization the full presentation and plans. At least three four staff members, including the head of the division, said the designation would not be affected.

“We are running parallel right now, so we want to make sure the residents

“We are running parallel right now, so we want to make sure the residents are OK with the modifications, while at the same time, Tonya and I are working directly with the state and federal government relative to ensuring we do not lose the historic preservation of the building,”

City of Ocoee to celebrate 100 years of township

City commissioners also approved the preliminary site plan for Covington Oaks, a 17-lot residential subdivision.

ANDREA MUJICA STAFF WRITER

The Ocoee City Commission will celebrate the 100-year anniversary of Ocoee becoming a township in 1923, as discussed during the Tuesday, Aug. 15, meeting.

Ocoee Mayor Rusty Johnson

introduced a proclamation provided by the Florida League of Cities commemorating the 100th anniversary at the commission’s Tuesday, Aug. 1, meeting.

The town of Ocoee was established in November 1923. It was later abolished and re-established as the City of Ocoee in May 1925. Therefore,

are OK with the modifications, while at the same time, Tonya and I are working directly with the state and federal government relative to ensuring we do not lose the historic preservation of the building,” Town Consultant John Fitzgibbon said. “We are still walking step-bystep with them. … We understand that is an important aspect of this project, and we will make sure that whatever we do, we won’t lose that designation.”

Haines asked if one of the money sources being considered is the Healthy West Orange funds not used for the pavilion project.

Town Manager Robert Smith plans to meet with HWO to discuss the funds to see if the money can be utilized, but the town currently is not looking at any state or federal grant dollars.

“Would there still be a plan to potentially build just bathrooms?” Haines asked. “It’s my understanding that the main project got kiboshed, and we would be directly working with Healthy West Orange — not going through Rotary anymore. Is that still the case?”

Smith said the town needs to work with HWO and potentially Rotary Inc. The funds would go toward the Town Hall enhancement project if it qualified and the organizations agreed to it.

Haines asked if the town was trying to extend Town Hall as a wedding venue with the addition of the bridal suite in the plans.

Council Member Tom Stroup said he was also concerned about the space being a wedding destination spot. He said his priorities with

IN OTHER NEWS

n The Ocoee City Commission proclaimed the week of Sept. 10 to 16 as National Assisted Living week and urged all citizens to “volunteer in an assisted-living community, to visit friends and loved ones who reside at these communities and to learn more about how assistedliving services benefit our communities.”

n The commission approved all changes provided by the Charter Review Commission. These will be included in the ballots for the Municipal Elections Day March 19, 2024.

the Town Hall enhancements are the historic designation and an ordinance on the events hosted at the venue.

“Then, we’re back to square one with some of the same issues we’re trying to avoid with the pavilion,” he said. “The biggest problems I’ve had so far — complaints from the neighbors where I live — has been from the weddings that are going on there. … We just need to make sure that maybe at some point, maybe hand-in-hand with this, we come up with an effective noise ordinance that would let people enjoy their weddings but also let us enjoy our quality of life here on these back streets over here.”

Smith said the space is not a revenue-generator and would serve as a multipurpose room.

The town planned to discuss the Town Hall enhancements, as well as town-sponsored events, at a Town Council workshop Tuesday, Aug. 22, after press time.

BACKGROUND

The Town Council consented previously to engage Tom Price, a historical architect who has renovated and revitalized historical facilities in downtown Orlando, for the project.

Elliott-Moore said Price was tasked with looking at Town Hall and developing a draft plan based on three categories: Safety, accessibility and functionality; historical aesthetic improvements; and additional enhancements.

Fitzgibbon discussed the specifics of the changes under the three categories and walked residents

n The commissioners approved the 2024 holiday schedule and the cancellation of four commission meetings; Jan. 2, 2024; March 19, 2024; July 2, 2024; and Sept. 3, 2024.

n The commissioners proclaimed Sept. 11, 2023, to be known as “a day of prayer, remembrance and rededication to patriotism and love for our country that will be recognized forever.”

n The commissioners approved the rezoning and annexation of the Flores property, which sits on .97 acres of land at 2121 Lauren Beth Ave., Ocoee.

through the proposed floor plans.

Fitzgibbon said the conceptual plans have been reviewed by the Historic Preservation Board to gather feedback. He said the board loved the plans.

In terms of safety, accessibility and functionality, Fitzgibbon said staff looked at where foundation enhancements were needed — especially for the porch columns.

Staff looked also at disabled accessibility relative to the proximity of the parking, improving stage access and adding a handicapped lift, looking at new exits at the west stage area and the back of the kitchen area at the east side, looking at guardrails at the main entry landing, removing the steps at the northeast corner of Town Hall, and providing access from the multipurpose room to the porch.

As far as historical aesthetic improvements, Fitzgibbon said the town is looking at improved roof enhancements; renovating the porch columns, stairs and rails with Hardie board; replacing the rotted wood; and adding a new metal roof for the entire facility.

Fitzgibbon said the town is exploring a full hip roof design to eliminate the current flat roof.

To address additional enhancements, the town gathered feedback from residents, the HPB and past users of Town Hall.

The items include adding a new multipurpose room, conducting a restroom expansion, adding more family restrooms, creating exterior access to the Town Hall restrooms and looking at new kitchen equipment.

the city will host a small celebration in November to commemorate the century mark.

A date for the event is still to be determined.

COVINGTON OAKS APPROVED

The commission approved unanimously, with Commissioner Rosemary Wilsen absent, the preliminary subdivision plan for Covington Oaks.

The property — 9.94 acres — falls within the low-density residential designation and is located at 8667 A.D. Mims Road, Ocoee.

The development will consist of a 17-lot single-family detached residential subdivision with 80-footwide quarter-acre lots.

Lakeview HS WINTER GARDEN, FL

— Town Consultant John Fitzgibbon

THESE OLD TIMES FROM THE WINTER GARDEN HERITAGE FOUNDATION

90 years ago

A surprising opinion was handed down by Attorney Gen. Cary D. Landis, who ruled movies were illegal in Florida — regardless of whether or not municipalities had passed legislation to permit their legal operation.

Tomatoes and peppers were the main crop being picked by workers with M.C. Britt, A.B. Kannon, L.M. Austin and Clarence Tilden.

Jones Goodyear Service Station, telephone 55, in Winter Garden, featured 4.40-21 tires at $5.55 each.

Mrs. J. Earl Vick and sons John and Ned were in Chicago attending the World’s Fair.

Mr. and Mrs. Forrest Welsh and Mrs. D. Flemming were home again after a brief trip to the Chicago World’s Fair.

85 years ago

Mayor George Walker announced federal approval of a Works Progress Administration project to repave streets in Winter Garden.

72 years ago

The parking meters were being placed back on the streets of Winter Garden. The fine for parking overtime was 50 cents.

A check for $4,000 to help provide care for local polio patients was received by the Orange County Chapter of the National Foundation of Infantile Paralysis.

50 years ago

John A. Terrell, of Winter Garden, was selected for Outstanding Young Men of America. He recently was elected president of the Jaycees of Florida.

Mrs. Wade (Jan) Bradford was

FROM THE ARCHIVES

This men’s overcoat, size 37 large, very likely saw service during the Korean War and may have been in use from as early as the U.S. Air Force’s founding in 1947. It features two patches on each arm, signifying its owner was an airman. The buttons of the coat are engraved with the Air Force crest.

An upcoming exhibit, titled “Dressing the Part: Selections from the Wardrobe Collection,” will open at the Winter Garden Heritage Museum in early September and feature workday uniforms, military outfits, homecoming gowns and many other items donated by local residents.

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.

guest of honor at a baby shower given at the home of Mrs. William (Jane) Fairchild. In the Winter Garden City Tennis Tournament, Martha Teal defeated Jane Fulmer in the girls 12-and-under, and Craig Perry defeated Randy Buttram in the boys 12-and-under. In the 14-andunder, it was Robyne Teal over Jennifer Powell, and Paul Wiltse over Doug Knight. Ocoee teenagers Jim Shirley,

Tommy Breeze and Randy Freeman took a summer trip that carried them to Alaska and back. They logged almost 16,000 miles on Jim’s 1972 Datsun pickup. During the 37-day jaunt, they took turns driving and found time to climb a mountain, ride rapids, eat in a pizza shop in Anchorage and witness the Northern Lights. In Wyoming, they counted 214 deer and antelope alongside the road. They balked at having to

THROWBACK THURSDAY

AUG. 28, 1969

If you were looking for a used car in West Orange County in 1969, one of the best places to make a purchase was at John Lamb Chevrolet, on State Road 50 in Winter Garden.

An advertisement in The Winter Garden Times announced a two-door 1968 Camero for $2,095 and the same car in a super sport model with radio for $2,695; a 1962 Corvair Monza Coupe for $595; a fourspeed 1967 Chevelle SS 396 for $2,095; and an automatic, eight-cylinder 1965 Chevelle convertible with power steering, center console and bucket seats for $1,295. For $1,595, you could drive off with an eight-cylinder 1966 Oldsmobile F-85 or sixcylinder 1965 Chevy 1-Ton.

pay 88 cents a gallon for gas.

And they claimed the purchased a moose head skeleton from a drunken Indian. Ocoee’s Prima Vista subdivision, a 44-acre, 154-home residential tract south of Starke Lake on White Road, was ready for the first residents to move in.

The three-, four- and five-bedroom homes cost $30,000 to $41,000.

redfin.com

Crescent Lake Estates home sells for $1,865,000

Ahome in the Crescent Lakes Estates community in Windermere topped all West Orangearea residential real-estate transactions from Aug. 4 to 11.

The home at 1410 Crescent Lake Drive, Windermere, sold Aug. 8, for $1,865,000. Built in 1997, it has four bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 3,797 square feet on 4.64 acres. Days on market: Seven. These are the highest-selling homes in each community in West Orange.

DR. PHILLIPS BAY HILL

The home at 5646 Masters Blvd., Orlando, sold Aug. 9, for $1,018,000. Built in 1982, it has four bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 4,265 square feet of living area. Days on market:

Two.

BAY VIEW RESERVE

The condo at 7550 Hinson St., No. 14D, Orlando, sold Aug. 8, for $449,900. Built in 1985, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,870 square feet of living area. Days on market: Six.

ORANGE TREE

The home at 7709 Apple Tree Circle, Orlando, sold Aug. 8, for $700,000. Built in 1989, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,185 square feet of living area. Days on market: 30.

POINT CYPRESS

The townhouse at 8919 Della Scala Circle, Orlando, sold Aug. 8, for $625,000. Built in 2012, it has four bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 2,581 square feet.

Days on market: 11.

SAND LAKE VILLAGE

The condo at 10330 Turkey Lake Road, No. 105, Orlando, sold Aug. 7, for $228,000. Built in 1984, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,124 square feet of living area. Days on market: 37.

VISTA CAY AT HARBOR SQUARE

The condo at 5036 Shoreway Loop, No. 40305, Orlando, sold Aug. 11, for $630,000. Built in 2006, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,097 square feet. Days on market: Nine.

HORIZON WEST HAWKSMOOR

The townhouse at 15919 Marina Bay Drive, Winter Garden, sold Aug. 8, for $460,000. Built in 2020, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,767 square feet of living area.

Days on market: One.

ISLES OF LAKE HANCOCK

The home at 14680 Pylon Court, Winter Garden, sold Aug. 7, for $1,600,000. Built in 2016, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 3,350 square feet of living area.

Days on market: Six.

LAKE BURDEN SOUTH

The home at 11545 Brickyard Pond Lane, Windermere, sold Aug. 11, for $1,600,000. Built in 2014, it has six bedrooms, sixand-one-half baths and 5,159 square feet of living area. Days on market: 87.

LAKE SAWYER SOUTH

The townhouse at 12844 Salomon Cove Drive, Windermere, sold Aug. 11, for $420,000. Built in 2008, it has three bedrooms, two-andone-half baths and 1,644 square feet of living area. Days on market: 16.

LAKEVIEW POINTE

The home at 7167 Spring Park Drive, Winter Garden, sold Aug. 10, for $527,000. Built in 2016, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 1,954 square feet. Days on market: 14.

LATHAM PARK

The home at 14282 Aldford Drive, Winter Garden, sold Aug. 8, for $1,130,000. Built in 2016, it has five bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths and 3,503 square feet. Days on market: 32.

NORTHLAKE AT OVATION

The home at 17682 Northlake Grove Trail, Winter Garden, sold Aug. 7, for $515,000. Built in 2023, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,906 square feet. Days on market: 11.

STOREY GROVE

The townhouse at 11067 Suspense Drive, Winter Garden, sold Aug. 7, for $430,000. Built in 2017, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,992 square feet. Days on market: 22.

The townhouse at 15809 Water Spring Blvd., Winter Garden, sold Aug. 9, for $413,605. Built in 2022, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,755 square feet of living area. Days on market: 85.

SUMMERLAKE GROVES

The home at 15343 Murcott Harvest Loop, Winter Garden, sold Aug. 11, for $765,000. Built in 2017, it has four bedrooms, four baths and 3,038 square feet. Days on market: 13.

SNAPSHOT Total Sales: 53 High Sale Price: $1,865,000 Low Sale Price: $180,000

VILLAGES OF WESMERE

The home at 1956 Leather Fern Drive, Ocoee, sold Aug. 7, for $550,000. Built in 2013, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,131 square feet. Days on market: Three.

WINDERMERE BELMERE VILLAGE

The home at 1028 Lascala Drive, Windermere, sold Aug. 11, for $540,000. Built in 2002, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,208 square feet. Days on market: 216.

KEENE’S POINTE

The home at 11407 Camden Loop Way, Windermere, sold Aug. 7, for $1,020,000. Built in 2005, it has five bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths and 3,478 square feet. Days on market: Four.

WINTER GARDEN

ALEXANDER RIDGE

The home at 2099 Cestius Road, Winter Garden, sold Aug. 9, for $672,000. Built in 2014, it has five bedrooms, three baths and 3,731 square feet. Days on market: 31.

CANOPY OAKS

SUMMERPORT

The home at 14325 Bluebird Park Road, Windermere, sold Aug. 10, for $660,000. Built in 2004, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,439 square feet. Days on market: 27.

The home at 11857 Amelia Pond Drive, Windermere, sold Aug. 7, for $620,000. Built in 2003, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,353 square feet. Days on market: 108.

WATERLEIGH

The townhouse at 17061 Water Spring Blvd., Winter Garden, sold Aug. 9, for $409,740. Built in 2023, it has three bedrooms, two-andone-half baths and 1,567 square feet of living area. Days on market: 26.

WINDING BAY

The home at 14984 Lebeau Loop, Winter Garden, sold Aug. 8, for $566,900. Built in 2023, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 2,285 square feet. Days on market: 33.

OAKLAND LONGLEAF AT OAKLAND

The townhouse at 1400 Planted Pine St., Oakland, sold Aug. 8, for $400,000. Built in 2019, it has two bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,620 square feet. Days on market: 12.

OCOEE ARDEN PARK NORTH

The home at 1985 Mountain Pine St., Ocoee, sold Aug. 11, for $540,000. Built in 2020, it has five bedrooms, three baths and 2,555 square feet. Days on market: 81.

CAMBRIDGE VILLAGE

The home at 673 Neumann Village Court, Ocoee, sold Aug. 10, for $380,000. Built in 2002, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,610 square feet. Days on market: 47.

MEADOWS

The home at 471 Northern Durango Ave., Ocoee, sold Aug. 11, for $275,000. Built in 1981, it has two bedrooms, one bath and 1,008 square feet of living area. Days on market: Seven.

PLANTATION GROVE WEST

The home at 841 Grovesmere Loop, Ocoee, sold Aug. 9, for $630,000. Built in 1992, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,585 square feet of living area. Days on market: Three.

PRAIRIE MEADOWS

The townhouse at 2068 Milkweed St., Ocoee, sold Aug. 7, for $355,000. Built in 2021, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,485 square feet of living area. Days on market: 13.

SILVER GLEN

The home at 321 Forrest Crest Court, Ocoee, sold Aug. 10, for $545,000. Built in 1993, it has five bedrooms, three baths and 2,856 square feet of living area. Days on market: 22.

The home at 725 Canopy Estates Drive, Winter Garden, sold Aug. 10, for $1,600,000. Built in 2020, it has six bedrooms, five-and-one-half baths and 4,503 square feet. Days on market: 12.

CARRIAGE POINTE

The home at 2013 Bay Clover Drive, Winter Garden, sold Aug. 7, for $755,000. Built in 2010, it has four bedrooms, four baths and 3,163 square feet. Days on market: 42.

COVINGTON PARK

The home at 714 Bainbridge Loop, Winter Garden, sold Aug. 10, for $511,000. Built in 2010, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 1,904 square feet. Days on market: Three.

DEERFIELD PLACE

The home at 115 Doe Run Drive, Winter Garden, sold Aug. 9, for $709,000. Built in 2005, it has five bedrooms, four baths and 4,334 square feet. Days on market: 37.

G.T. SMITH SUBDIVISION

The home at 202 S. Lakeview Ave., Winter Garden, sold Aug. 7, for $730,000. Built in 1923, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 2,033 square feet. Days on market: 149.

LAKEVIEW RESERVE

The home at 149 Desiree Aurora St., Winter Garden, sold Aug. 11, for $518,000. Built in 2002, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 1,853 square feet. Days on market: Three.

OAKLAND PARK

The home at 925 Easley Ave., Winter Garden, sold Aug. 7, for $1,050,000. Built in 2016, it has four bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 2,667 square feet. Days on market: Six.

The home at 1013 Pawley Way, Winter Garden, sold Aug. 10, for $930,000. Built in 2015, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,619 square feet. Days on market: Nine.

The home at 1036 Kershaw Drive, Winter Garden, sold Aug. 9, for $759,000. Built in 2018, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,442 square feet. Days on market: 33.

RESERVE AT CARRIAGE POINTE

The home at 2012 Sandy Garden Lane, Winter Garden, sold Aug. 7, for $930,000. Built in 2013, it has four bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 4,319 square feet. Days on market: 25.

SANCTUARY AT TWIN WATERS

The home at 16743 Sanctuary Drive, Winter Garden, sold Aug. 9, for $770,000. Built in 2020, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,536 square feet. Days on market: 11.

WINTER OAKS

The home at 715 Canopy Oaks Court, Winter Garden, sold Aug. 7, for $583,000. Built in 2004, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,556 square feet. Days on market: 28.

The home at 1410 Crescent Lake Drive, Windermere, sold Aug. 8, for $1,865,000. This lakefront home sits on 4.64 acres. The selling agent was Vinnie Warren, Keller Williams at the Lakes.

Dwayne Green

The home at 5646 Masters Blvd., Orlando, sold Aug. 9, for $1,018,000. It was the largest transaction in Dr. Phillips from Aug. 4 to 11, 2023. The selling agent was Abi Ochoa, Property Force Realty.

Tony Salinger

The home at 841 Grovesmere Loop, Ocoee, sold Aug. 9, for $630,000. It was the largest transaction in Ocoee from Aug. 4 to 11, 2023. The selling agent was Kathleen Harrison, EXP Realty LLC.

GAME OF THE WEEK OCOEE VS. APOPKA

We are 300

ANDREA MUJICA STAFF WRITER

We are 300.

That’s a phrase that has been engraved on the minds and hearts of all players on the Ocoee High School football team.

“That’s the brotherhood that this team has; that’s our motto,” junior quarterback Jackson Keillor, 16, said.

“That’s the ‘I’ve got your back, you’ve got my back’ we live for.”

After a historic season last year during which the Knights made it to the Final Four, Ocoee is ready to make some noise this season.

“We are not trying to be last year’s

team,” head football coach Sheddrick Gurley said. “We are trying to create our own identity. As of right now, we just want to take it day by day and work on progression. That’s what we talk about every day in practice.”

The Knights brought home their first win of the season after defeating Oak Ridge 27-13 Friday, Aug. 18.

“We are very prepared (for this season),” defensive tackle Ezekiel Brinson, 16, said. “We’ve got to believe in each other; that’s our our team works. I believe in our offense a great deal, … I just hope that they trust us (the defense) to stop the other team, as well.”

SEE KNIGHTS ON PAGE 2B

Warrior mentality: Volleyball players share more than love of the game

West Orange senior Layla Reinbolt and freshman Millie Stone both had open heart surgeries during their early years.

ANDREA MUJICA STAFF WRITER

You could say West Orange High School volleyball players Layla Reinbolt and Millie Stone are connected by the heart. Sure, they share true passion and love for the game.

But, their connection is even deeper than that. They’ve both battled heart defects, endured open-heart surgeries. What’s more, they even share the same heart surgeon.

Several West Orange-area teams celebrated Kickoff Classic victories last week Both the Lake Buena Vista and Windermere football teams won their preseason games Friday, Aug. 18. The Vipers defeated the Liberty High School Chargers 34-6, while the Wolverines claimed a victory of 24-21 over the Tavares High School Bulldogs. Ocoee High School also celebrated a win after defeating Oak Ridge High school 27-13 in an away game, while the Foundation Academy Lions earned a 42-0 win against Bell Creek Athletics.

The Horizon High School girls volleyball team will play Ocoee High School during a district game at 7 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 24,

at home. The Lady Hawks will travel to Osceola High School at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 28, for a non-district game. 3

The Olympia High School boys golf team will host Horizon High School at 3:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 24, at the MetroWest Golf Club for the first tournament of its 2023-24 season. The Titans will host the Titan Invitational tournament at 1 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 26, at the Conservatory at Hammock Beach, 200 Conservatory Drive, Palm Coast. On the girls side, the Lady Titans will face Winter Park High School 4 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 29, at West Orange Country Club, 3300 West Orange Country Club Drive, Winter Garden.

The Dr. Phillips High School boys and girls varsity swimming teams will host Osceola High School at 2:30 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 30, at the Rosen Aquatic Center, 8422 International Drive, Orlando.

The West Orange High School boys and girls varsity crosscountry teams will attend the Kowboy Invitational at 7 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 26, at Osceola High School, 420 S. Thacker Ave., Kissimmee.

Foundation Academy freshman shortstop Joshua Ojeda recently was named MVP at the 14U PG End of Summer Classic. Page 2B.

The Ocoee High School Knights are eager to face the Apopka High School Blue Darters and will battle until the final whistle is blown to bring home another victory.

The Ocoee High football team lives by its “We are 300” motto, which has created a sense of trust and deep bonds between all members of the team.

Andrea Mujica

The Knights have a strong bond on and off the field.

Andrea Mujica

Layla Reinbolt and Millie Stone are excited to compete as Warriors this season.

IN OTHER ACTION

OF THE WEEK

Joshua Ojeda

Foundation Academy baseball team freshman shortstop Joshua Ojeda recently was named MVP at the 14U PG End of Summer Classic, which took place from Aug. 11 to 13 in Sanford.

How did it feel when you were named MVP of the tournament?

It was a big accomplishment, because I was blessed enough to finish top in the tournament in hitting and overall performance, so it is a really big accomplishment for me.

Tell us about your years as a baseball player.

I started when I was 4 years old in Little League and T-ball, and I’ve been playing ever since. I did a little bit of soccer, but I just liked baseball better. I feel like it fit better with me.

What is your earliest memory playing baseball?

Probably when I was about 8 years old. It was raining outside, everything was muddy — the whole field — and (my dad and I) were playing. It was so fun. I had to ride back in the trunk, because we were so muddy.

What do you love most about baseball as a sport?

Just the competitiveness and that every game is different; you don’t know what’s going to happen. You have to be on your toes and ready for the next pitch.

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

A lot of discipline, how you have to stay healthy and your body has to be healthy … and that you have to be really dedicated to the sport.

Do you have a favorite drill at practice?

I love taking ground balls and hitting in general. I love doing short hops when I’m fielding.

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

Probably my size. I have a really long arm span, so I can get to a lot of balls people don’t think I can get to as an infield.

THE BASICS

Age: 14 Sport: Baseball

Position: Shortstop, third and pitcher Grade: Freshman School: Homeschooled

Tampa Bay Rays. I’ve always liked them, because they are in the same state, and I just love how they do so (well), and they don’t spend a lot of money on buying off the players, so they develop their players really well.

What is your favorite hobby? I love fishing.

What do you like to do on the weekend?

I just like hanging out, in general. I like spending time with my brother when his family comes over.

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

Probably a fishing pole, any sort of ball — maybe a volleyball — because it can bounce, and I can use it for a lot of things, and then probably a knife.

What is your favorite movie? I always loved “Home Alone.”

Who is you favorite superhero?

Why?

Spider-Man. I feel like he is super powerful, but he has a good personality and a good character, in general. It would be cool to websling everywhere.

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

To rewind a bit, so if I make a mistake or something, I can fix it.

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

Definitely Aruba; Venezuela, when it gets better there; and

Knights ready for 2023 campaign

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1B

Ocoee has been working hard on having a one-game mentality, and this week they are focused on honing in on a formidable opponent in Apopka.

“That game is very important,” Gurley said. “To be honest, all games are important, but Apopka is one of those teams where I don’t think we have a win versus them. So, if we get to win versus Apopka, that would be huge for this team and huge for the community.”

On the defensive side of the ball, the boys have a new defense coordinator in Mike McClenston, who has been doing extensive work to ensure his players understand what they need to do on the line of scrimmage.

“I am very excited; I feel like we have played a lot during the summer,” Brinson said. “We got to know each other well, and I feel like the guys that are starting have been

coming together at practice. … So, it’s going to pay off a lot. We do a lot of running, and our conditioning has gotten better … so we are prepared for games at all times.”

Wen it comes to maintaining momentum, the team relies on skill and confidence — as well as encouragement from one another.

“We sure have a close-knit brotherhood,” Gurley said. “They know when to joke around; they know when to take everything seriously. They are just a unique group. Don’t get me wrong: Every team has some immaturity here and there, but at least these guys understand that the brotherhood means a lot to them.”

To stay competitive, the Knights have developed what they call a Championship Period during practice, which serves as scrimmage for games.

“The first-team offense goes against the first-team defense,” Gurley said. “It’s pretty much the

THURSDAY, AUG. 24

7:30 p.m. CFCA at Hardee

FRIDAY AUG. 25

n Dr. Phillips at Lake Mary

n Foundation Academy vs. Tenoroc

n Horizon at Freedom

n Lake Buena Vista vs. Gateway

n Legacy at Bishop

McLaughlin Catholic

n Olympia vs. Wekiva

n TFA vs. Crescent City

n West Orange vs. Oak Ridge

n Windermere at Colonial

n Windermere Prep vs. Seffner Christian

best out of five, and from there we take that in and go to practice. We just remain physical the whole time.”

When looking forward to the games ahead, the Knights feel confident with their unique identity — and their potential to live up to, and even surpass, last year’s success.

“(Getting to the Final Four) — that’s the standard,” Keillor said. “We made it there last year, so I don’t see any reason why we can’t make it there this year.”

Warriors share unique bond

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1B

LAYLA’S STORY

Doctors discovered Reinbolt’s heart issues early.

“We found out she had a heart murmur when she was 2 years old,” her mom, Amy Reinbolt, said. “I had taken her to the hospital for an ear infection. She had a really high fever, and they heard the murmur. Then, we started to see a cardiologist, and they could never figure out what was wrong with her. So, they just kind of monitored her and said she was growing up, and it’d work its way out.”

It didn’t.

At 6 years old, Layla Reinbolt — who has a big sense of humor and a fun personality — was lethargic, exhausted and slept more than she should.

“I took her to her regular doctor, she ordered a whole bunch of blood tests, because she did have a blood disease when she was 3 months old,” Amy Reinbolt said. “So they did all the blood tests and asked, ‘When was the last time she went to the cardiologist?’”

That was when Reinbolt, a senior right side and middle for the Warriors varsity team, was diagnosed with a sinus venous defect that caused anomalous drainage of the right upper pulmonary vein into the right atrium of her heart. She also was diagnosed with a small atrial septal defect.

“Her issue … was pretty rare and hard to find,” Amy Reinbolt said. “But, (the doctor) had seen it before, so they came in and told me that she needed open heart surgery to correct the situation.”

On Valentine’s Day 2013, at just 7 years old, Layla Reinbolt lay on the operating table. She had an ASD closure patch and a partial anomalous pulmonary venous return repair with baffle redirection to the left atrium.

After surgery, Layla resumed her normal behavior, moving around and always on the go with bolts of energy. She decided to try volleyball after getting cleared by her cardiologist and being encouraged to try sports to make her heart stronger.

“My sister introduced me to this sport, because I was doing a bunch of different sports at the time,” Layla Reinbolt said. “This sport clicked automatically. There’s something about the sport no one really understands — like the love and passion you have on the court.”

For the last for four years, Layla Reinbolt has been a starter on the

I love the

Warriors girls varsity team.

“I feel like my communication is very strong,” she said. “I’m always talking to people and walking through. My hitting or spiking is pretty good and so is my blocking.”

However, every year after the surgery, Layla Reinbolt has an echocardiogram done and pays a visit to her cardiologist.

“They’ve been monitoring her since her surgery because of her age and her growing and changing,” Amy Reinbolt said. “The patch they had to do — they want to make sure it stays solid and that she would never need a stent.”

MILLIE’S STORY

For Millie Stone, 14, a freshman outside for the Warriors JV team, the diagnosis came before she was born — during a prenatal ultrasound. She was born with a congenital heart defect called tricuspid atresia. The valve in charge of controlling the blood flow from the right upper chamber of the heart to the right lower chamber didn’t form.

“We were at our regular ultrasound, and they said, ‘We want you to come back in two weeks,’” her mom, Jessica Stone, said. “When I went back in two weeks, it was a lot more than that. … We found that day that she was going to need three open heart surgeries, which is a lot to hear when you are pregnant.”

Millie Stone lay on the operating table three times — when she was 5 weeks old, 5 months old and 3 years old. The surgeon who operated on her also was the pediatric cardiac

surgeon who operated on Layla Reinbolt — Dr. William DeCampli.

“The first one … they put a band on her pulmonary artery just to get the right amount of blood flow going to her lungs from the heart,” Jessica Stone said. “The second surgery is called the Glenn Procedure. … They rerouted all of (her) upper body flow so it skips the heart and just flows to the lungs. … And then the third surgery is called the Fontan Procedure, and that’s where they rerouted her lower body blood flow. Now, she just has the left side of the heart, she has one pump instead of two, she skips the whole right side of the heart — the right atrium and the right ventricle — (the blood) never goes into the right side of the heart.”

Millie’s sister introduced her to volleyball and now she also loves the sport; this year she will step onto the court as a Lady Warrior.

“They had a camp for incoming sixth- through incoming ninthgraders,” she said. “That’s when I first met Layla.”

After her last surgery took place, Millie has been going to her cardiologist on an annual basis for an electrocardiogram.

“She’s a healthy kid,” Jessica Stone said. “I love her spirit and her work ethic with her team. She’s a leader on the court, and it’s exciting to have her play at the high school level, because her older sister is a junior and she’s a setter on varsity. So, (we are) able to cheer for them both. We have two West Orange Warriors.”

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

Andrea Mujica

A new friendship emerged between the Stones and the Reinbolts when they found out Millie, left, and Layla had open heart surgery by the same doctor.

Dr. Phillips water polo players win Junior Olympics

The Team Orlando 16U girls category competed at The USA Water Polo Junior Olympics in Dallas for the first time.

DR. PHILLIPS PLAYERS

ANDREA MUJICA STAFF WRITER

Members of the Dr. Phillips girls varsity water polo team competed recently at The USA Water Polo Junior Olympics — which took place in Dallas — and brought home the gold.

“It means a lot,” junior goalie Maran Harris, 16, said. “We are a newly developed team, and we just started to getting to play together with some of our other teammates. It was a very monumental moment to see everything come together after all the hard work. It was awesome.”

This was the first time Team Orlando attended the Junior Olympics with a girls division. It had attended in the past but only with a boys team, and despite not being able to practice much as a team, the girls did not disappoint.

“Sometimes, personalities are difficult to mesh together,” said Leo Ramirez, Dr. Phillips head water polo coach. “But they accepted each other and took to each other right away. It was like watching a team that had been (playing) together forever.”

“I actually didn’t get to meet people much before getting to play with them,” junior wing driver Vivi Kasten, 15, said. “I didn’t know half their names before the first game. But, it was really fun. We all worked together super well, communicated

really well, and we just clicked as a team.”

Coming in as the underdogs, the team turned some heads game after game, displaying a strong chemistry on the water and growing their level of confidence for their upcoming 2023-24 water polo high school season.

“It means a lot to the girls,” Ramirez said. “Their confidence level went up a lot, and we didn’t know what to expect. We were put into a group that had the second seed of the tournament in it. … We just beat very good teams, and that gave them a lot of confidence. Teams couldn’t score on us. We had great offense, and we had the most goals and allowed the least goals (of the tournament). They were very confident.”

Senior utility and wing Nicole Speller, 17, competed last year at the Junior Olympics in the 16U category but this year entered as an 18U player — who also brought gold.

“Even though I didn’t play in the 16U division, I played in it last year, and we came in eighth (overall),” she said. “Seeing the progress from going and finish eighth to winning gold — it was good to see all the hard work that we’ve put in from last year to now. And, I realized how much harder one year division going up makes a difference, because I had to put in a lot more effort in games. It was very hard, but I pushed the entire game, and it was worth it.”

More than 30 boys teams and 15 girls teams participated in this year’s tournament.

“Honestly, it was not what I was

expecting at all,” Harris said. “I was just hoping to win one of the first games when the bracket was set. I was not expecting to win all our games. … I’m so proud of us for being able to come together and achieve that.”

Dr. Phillips sophomore driver and utility Avery Haugh, 15, was named MVP of the tournament.

“I’m really grateful for it; I couldn’t have done it without the team and coaches,” she said. “We all worked together as a team, and I wouldn’t have been able to do everything I did without them. Being able to communicate with the team and be able to help lead them and assist them in whatever I could to ultimately coming out winning every game.”

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Bringing home the gold was definitely an unexpected achievement for Dr. Phillip water polo players who recently participated at The USA Water Polo Junior Olympics.

SCHOOL BRIEFS

PLUMBING FORCES EARLY RELEASE AT WINDERMERE

Issues with plumbing Thursday, Aug. 20, at Windermere High School have forced the school to release students early.

“This was the result of a lift station failure,” said David Ocasio, assistant director of media relations for Orange County Public Schools. “Repairs were quickly made by OCPS maintenance staff, and the station is once again pumping.”

According to Principal Andrew Leftakis, release procedures began at 12:45 p.m.

Maintenance crews cleaned and disinfected impacted areas, and students were able to return to campus Friday, Aug. 21.

ORANGE SCHOOL BOARD ADOPTS TENTATIVE MILLAGE

The Orange County School Board at its Aug. 1 meeting adopted the tentative millage rate to support the tentative budget for the 2023-24 school year.

The 2023-24 millage rate is 6.421, compared to 6.462 for the 2022-23 year.

The tentative OCPS budget for 2023-24 includes $2,707,394,287 for the General Fund, $291,327,666 for the Special Revenue Fund, $237,058,471 for the Debt Service Fund, $2,405,000,820 for the Capital Projects Fund, and $368,529,039 for the Internal Service Fund.

The School Board will host the final budget hearing at 5 p.m. Sept. 12, at the Ronald Blocker Educational Leadership Center, 445 West Amelia St., Orlando.

OCPS SUPERINTENDENT

NAMES NEW LEADERS

OCPS Superintendent Dr. Maria Vazquez announced the appointments of new school leaders, including several in the West Orange and Southwest Orange areas.

New principals include Janet Bittick, Windermere Elementary; Tracy Webley, Keene’s Crossing Elementary; and Sean Downing, Prairie Lake Elementary. New assistant principals include Jacqueline Lemieux and Steve Louis-Jean, Windy Ridge K-8 School, and Karen Nelthropp, Olympia High.

INFLUENCER OF THE WEEK

JULIE BRANOM DILLARD STREET ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Julie Branom is the program assistant for the Exceptional Student Education program at Dillard Street Elementary School and has been at the Winter Garden school for more than 20 years. She works with students in prekindergarten through fifth grade assisting teachers in the classroom.

“She is the ultimate team player and is able to provide support wherever needed,” said Jenesis McGhee, school secretary. “She is always smiling and positive toward all the students she works with, and her students know that she will always be there for them. She is always encouraging her students to be the best they can be. Mrs. Branom always goes above and beyond, and her love for working with children with special needs is unmatched.”

What brought you to your school?

I ran a home daycare for 15 years and decided to get a job in the school system so I would have summers off with my own two children. I figured this would be the best place to go, (because) it was in my own community, my children attended this school, and my husband was a Dillard Street Elementary alumni.

What do you love most about your school?

What I love most about my school is that it is a part of my community, and I like being able to see the children outside of school. It’s fun to see the surprised look on their faces when they recognize you in the grocery store, a restaurant, walking in the park or at a special event in downtown Winter Garden.

What is your motivation?

I love to be around children of all ages. I really love what I do and can’t see myself doing anything else.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

The most rewarding part of my job is watching children grow and mature in their body and mind. When you stay in one school for as long as I have, you see this happening from year to year.

REPORT CARD

POSITION: ESE program assistant TIME AT SCHOOL: 25 years

This is what makes it difficult sometimes when they graduate from elementary school — you get too attached, and it’s sad to see them go. Thanks to Facebook though, I have been able to catch up with some of my former students now as adults. What do you like to do in your spare time?

I like to go fishing with my family either on a lake or off a pier on either coast. I love being out in nature, walking, doing yard work or just watching a beautiful sunset. I especially love spending time with my toy poodle, Rocco!

Who was your favorite teacher when you were in school? Why?

I went to a small public school K-12 in the Finger Lakes area of New York state, and because it was so small, I had this one teacher for several subjects when I was in high school. Her name was Mrs. Sinicropi, and she taught typing, shorthand and accounting. She also owned

(still owns) a flower shop where I order flowers from whenever I need flowers for someone in New York. She was just such a caring, considerate and understanding person. Everyone loved her.

When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up? Why?

I always wanted to be a teacher when I was a child. At the end of each school year in elementary I would bring home all the excess papers that the teacher would be getting rid of and make my little sister play school with me. My sister, to this day, claims that’s why she hated school. Even though I loved playing school, when I entered middle and high school, I leaned toward secretarial-type work, because I loved organizing things, working with numbers and just everything that had to do with being a secretary.

What is your favorite children’s book and why?

I love a lot of children’s books, but I guess the book I first fell in love with when I had my home daycare was “Chicka Chicka Boom Boom,” by Bill Martin Jr. and John Archambault. It’s just a really fun alphabet book with bright colors and cute little rhymes.

What are your hobbies?

I don’t know if I have any real hobbies unless collecting snowmen and cows is a hobby. My family thinks I have enough of these, so I’m trying to resist getting any more.

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

If I could have any superpower, I guess it would be to be able to heal people with mental illness, especially children. Mental illness is such a mysterious thing and so hard to manage, let alone cure. I see children with mental illness, and it breaks my heart to not know how to make it all better for them or to make it go away so they can live a more normal life.

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

Contemporary Christian music is my “jam.” My three favorite groups would be Casting Crowns, Chris Tomlin and MercyMe.

What was your go-to lunch as an elementary student?

Any favorite snacks or special treats you remember?

My go-to lunch was square pizza all through school K-12. The only snack I remember was in kindergarten, and it was plain crackers with orange juice. We always had it after our nap time.

What is your favorite holiday and why?

My favorite holiday is Easter. It’s my favorite, because it symbolizes new beginnings, forgiveness and hope in something greater than ourselves.

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

Are you still in touch?

My best friend was Lisa Heitmann. We did everything together like we were family. I visited her this summer while I was in New York visiting my family.

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

I did several intramural sports when I was in school. Soccer and field hockey were my favorites. I also was involved in 4-H for several years, where I learned cooking and sewing skills. One of my sewing projects won a blue ribbon and was entered in the New York State Fair.

Lions showcase personalities in the parking lot

Foundation Academy seniors took their paint cans, paint brushes and creativity to the student parking lot recently to make their mark for the 2023-24 school year. Bright colors and a plethora of themes filled the parking spaces as students and their friends and families continued the Foundation Academy tradition.

—

AMY QUESINBERRY

AMY QUESINBERRY

Allie Frame created a video game scene on her senior parking space at Foundation Academy.

Courtesy photos

Elizabeth Jackson chose a bright pink color to personalize her parking space.

Sydney Ellis, Hailey Long and Valentina Castelan documented their hard work with a photo.

Zephy Rogers channeled Spider-Man for his parking space.

Colonel Foster N. Dickson, USAF Ret., passed away Aug. 10, 2023, at Augusta University Medical Center, Augusta, Georgia. He was a resident of Aiken, South Carolina.

Colonel Dickson was born in Winter Garden, Florida, and graduated from Austin High School, Austin, Texas. He attended the University of Florida until he entered the United States Air Force Aviation Cadet Program in March of 1954. He subsequently received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Aviation Technology from Louisiana Tech University.

Colonel Dickson is a graduate of Squadron Officer School, the Industrial College of the Armed Forces and Armed Forces Staff College.

Immediately following his graduation from Armed Forces Staff College, Colonel Dickson served his country as a Forward Air Controller and Air Liaison Officer with the 20th Tactical Air Support Squadron in the Republic of South Vietnam. He accumulated 350 combat hours in the OV-10 aircraft. During this Southeast Asia tour, he also served as Chief, Current Operations, 504th Tactical Air Support Group.

Upon his departure from South Vietnam, Colonel Dickson was assigned to Headquarters Second Air Force, Barksdale AFB, Louisiana, where he had duties as Command Post Officer Controller, Deputy Chief of Programs Division, Chief of the Forces Status Division and Chief of the Command Control Division. From there, he proceeded to the 920th Air Refueling Squadron, Wurtsmith AFB,

Michigan, where he served as the Squadron Commander for two years.

From March 1978 until June 1980, Colonel Dickson served as the Chief of the Command-and-Control Branch, Survivability Section, at Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe. From June 1980 until March 1983, he served as Commander, 340th Air Refueling Group, Altus Air Force Base, Oklahoma.

A Command Pilot with more than 6,800 flying hours, including 500 combat hours, Colonel Dickson flew the T-6, T-28, T-33, T-37, C-45, C-118 and KC-135. He also flew the B-25, AT-33, H-19 and OV-10 aircraft.

He is the recipient of the Distinguished Flying Cross, Bronze Star, Defense Meritorious Medal and the Air Force Meritorious Medal.

Upon his retirement from the Air Force, he joined Nortel Networks as a Program Director of Federal Programs. He retired in 1997 as President of Federal Programs.

He was predeceased by his father, Raymond George Dickson; mother, Martha Ruth Hall; and his brother, Charles.

Colonel Dickson was married to the former Tommie Shirley Davis, of Winter Garden, Florida, in 1954. They have one daughter, Teresa McCracken (Thomas) Dallas, Texas; and two sons, Joseph, Winter Garden, Florida, Richmond (Krys), Aiken, South Carolina; five grandchildren; and one great-grandson.

The couple were married for 69 years.

Interment will take at 2 p.m. Friday, Oct. 20, 2023, at Fort Jackson National Cemetery, Columbia, SC, 4170 Percival Road, Columbia, SC 29229.

Memorials may be made to the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN, 38105; or stjude.org.

The Historic George Funeral Home & Cremation Center, 211 Park Ave SW, Aiken, SC 29801; (803) 649-6234, has charge of arrangements.

Online expressions of sympathy for the family may be left by visiting georgefuneralhomes.com.

Lakers prep spots for senior year

Seniors at Windermere Preparatory School were eager to personalize their parking spaces and mark the beginning of their final year of high school. The tradition of painting the parking spots drew students and their families and friends to the school Aug. 6. The end result was a colorful representation of the senior class.

— AMY QUESINBERRY

COL. FOSTER N. DICKSON DIED AUG. 10, 2023.

Abby Walsh and Matthew Anderson chose a colorful pattern for the parking space at Windermere Prep.

Left: Sophia Gegg had fun personalizing her parking spot.

Courtesy photos Sam Gerena, Natalia Matabuena and Yessica Matabuena took a break from painting.

But Wait ... THERE’S MORE!