09.21.23 Southwest Orange Observer

ORANGE

ALL RISE: Court is in session

transportation.

NATURE

The Oakland Nature Preserve and Orange Audubon Society are gearing up for the 2023 Nature Fest open house, to be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 23, at ONP. Attendees can meet members of the environmental community, check out the children’s art tent and the vendors, participate in animal interactions and guided hikes, learn interesting facts from the various presentations, and more.

Slots are still available for a boat tour of Lake Apopka. Register at oaklandnaturepreserve. wildapricot.org/naturefest. Admission to the festival is free, but all donations will benefit the mission of ONP.

The Winter Garden City Commission did not vote on a request to build 61 new townhomes at 1265 and 1271 Avalon Road.

SEE PAGE 2A

Windermere Preparatory School at season-opening meet. SEE PAGE 3B.

The Fernwood Boat Ramp currently is open from dawn to dusk to follow Orange County standards. SEE PAGE 6A.

Annabelle Sikes

Kids lace up for Westly Westly’s Mile returns to schools throughout West Orange County. SEE PAGE 7B. Athletes SOUTHWEST

Windermere High School

Winter Garden delays townhome decision

ANNABELLE SIKES

NEWS EDITOR

Winter Garden city commissioners’ concerns stalled a city decision on a proposal for 61 new townhomes.

Commissioners discussed the townhomes, proposed for 1265 and 1271 Avalon Road, during their meeting Thursday, Sept. 14. However, they voted only to table two of the three ordinances pertaining to the proposal.

The applicant is requesting annexation and to amend the Future Land Use from County Low Density Residential to City Medium Density Residential, as well as rezone the subject property from Single-Family Dwelling District to Planned Unit Development.

The approval would permit the construction of the units in 11 separate townhome buildings that will have five or six units each. The project would include associated site development such as recreation areas, open spaces, sidewalks, a lift station, landscaping and stormwater ponds.

Although the annexation ordinance passed, the city voted unanimously to

IN OTHER NEWS

postpone the other two ordinances to a date to be determined following a suggestion by Commissioner Ron Mueller and agreement from the applicant.

Mayor John Rees abstained from all three votes because his family owns property located across the street from the proposed development.

DENSITY DISCUSSION

Mueller referred to the proposals as a “sticky wicket.”

“As we’ve all discussed on this board before, Avalon already has an enormous traffic issue there,” he said. “Diagonally across the street from this piece of land is Tucker Ranch.

We’re getting ready to invest $25 million into building this incredible park, and instead of putting nice homes in the area, we want to pack it with a bunch of townhomes that, by any stretch of imagination, are not going to be any more affordable for anyone.

… I don’t think this is the proper use for this request.”

Planning Director Kelly Carson said the FLU designation of medium density residential allows for up to 10 dwelling units per acre; the applicant is proposing seven dwelling units per acre.

“This is less than both the immediately surrounding city developments to the east and west … ” she said. “This provides additional housing options for buyers who maybe don’t want to live in a single-family neighborhood.

n The Winter Garden City Commission approved unanimously the first reading of four ordinances pertaining to adopting the proposed budgets and millage rate for Fiscal Year 2023-24. The General Fund revenues budget for FY 2023-24 totals $82,768,911. This is an increase of $31,920,525, or 63%, when compared to the budget for the prior fiscal year. The budget reflects no change in millage rate — set at 4.5 mills.

n Commissioners approved unanimously a baseball complex use agreement with the Winter Garden Little League.

It provides a good transition from the heavy arterial commercial uses from the north, to the more low density further south on Avalon. Staff has analyzed this extensively and does believe that this is the most appropriate use for this property given the context and what surrounds it.”

Carson said a traffic study determined there is sufficient capacity to handle the project. However, Mueller and Rees were skeptical of that determination.

“I’m curious how we get that when we see everyday traffic is deeply backed up there,” Mueller said. “Peo-

n City commissioners approved unanimously increasing labor, material and equipment costs for the Cathcart Construction Company Continuing Contract.

n Commissioners approved unanimously to waive the formal procurement process and approve the purchase of a used power generator from United Rentals in the amount of $290,935.96.

n The commission approved unanimously to waive the formal procurement process and approve the purchase order to Sky Light Roofing to install a new roof at Tanner Hall in the amount of $145,333, which includes a 10% contingency.

ple are constantly complaining, and then our traffic study says, ‘Oh, it’s not a problem.’”

“The traffic is bad; it’s going to be bad,” Rees said. “I don’t know that I subscribe to that.”

Doug Kelly, representing the applicant, said the intent was to be compatible with the surrounding medium density residential developments.

“We are set on a townhome product, and really the density gets us where we need to be to make this site worth just because of the land value on it,” he said.

After discussing with his client, Kelly agreed to postpone the development discussion.

STONEYBROOK EXCHANGE Commissioners approved unanimously the first reading of an ordinance rezoning 11.34 acres located at Stoneybrook West Parkway.

n Commissioners approved unanimously the site plan for 721 Vineland Road for The Nurture Place.

n City commissioners approved unanimously the site plan for the 35 and 41 W. Morgan St. office and retail center, and 965, 981 and 995 Vineland Road for Kanoe USA.

n The commission approved unanimously the site plan for 14909 W. Colonial Drive for Winter Garden Grove.

n Commissioners approved unanimously the special event of the annual Oktoberfest hosted by the Crooked Can Brewery for Oct. 20, 21 and 22.

The subject property is located south of State Road 429, west of Windermere Road, east of Scarlett Sage Court and north of Stoneybrook West Parkway.

The applicant is requesting to rezone the subject property from Arterial Commercial District to Planned Commercial Development to comprise 13 buildings consisting of office and retail uses.

The 89,889-square-foot property also will consist of parking, a stormwater pond and enhanced landscaping. Carson said all the buildings will be one story tall, except for the building at the corner of Stoneybrook West and Windermere, which will be two stories.

The struggle bus

ANNABELLE SIKES NEWS EDITOR

Over a two-day period in September, a parent of a Horizon West Middle School student received four messages regarding problems with the student’s school bus.

The first message informed the parent the student’s morning bus was running 60 to 90 minutes late. It was sent at 4:41 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 5, after the school day had been completed.

The next morning, the parent received a text at 8:51 a.m. relaying the bus was running about 20 to 30 minutes late.

The morning after that, the parent received a text at 8:44 a.m. stating the bus was running about 40 to 50 minutes late in the morning. That afternoon, a fourth text stated the bus was running 30 to 40 minutes late.

And that’s just one parent of one student at one school.

For the last two school years, Orange County Public Schools has been about 100 bus drivers short of what it needs to transport about 56,000 students throughout the county.

District 4 Orange County School Board Member Pam Gould calls the shortage one of the greatest challenges the district is facing.

“We really saw CDL driver’s licenses become in high demand when goods needed to move across the country during COVID,” she said. “There was a huge increase in online shopping and delivery systems, and then there was a backlog of goods that didn’t make it to the storage and they had to get distributed, and that hasn’t changed. There was a national shortage in CDL licensed drivers even prior to COVID.”

Gould said the shortage can be blamed on one thing: money.

“When you have school districts who, especially in Florida, receive far less funding than other states provide their school districts, it’s hard for us to be competitive in an ever-increasing and demanding CDL market,” she said.

‘IT’S MADDENING!’

Danelle Ward, who has a freshman student at West Orange High School, said the buses have had the same issues since they resumed after the pandemic.

“For the last three years, we mostly drive her because the buses are late all the time and kids are sitting three to four per seat (not safe at all),” she said. “This year, the bus is dropping them off outside the gate to our neighborhood, and the kids are standing there waiting for a car to go in or come out to open the gate so they can walk home. It’s not safe, and the driver should not do that. I don’t want the driver to get fired, but they need to go through the main gate and drop these kids off where they are supposed to. They pick them up at that spot inside the gate, but apparently don’t want to take the five extra minutes to drive around to the main gate after school for drop off.”

Niki DeRogatis, who has a freshman student at Windermere High School, also has concerns with safety.

“We haven’t really had much issue with the timing of the buses as they are never the same bus, and when differ-

ent buses pick her up or take her home the time varies,” she said. “My biggest concern is that her bus is overcrowded with students. They are sitting three in a seat and on the floor consistently.”

According to OCPS officials, the standard capacity for a secondary run, two students to a seat, is 52 students. An elementary run has a maximum capacity of 78, or three students per seat.

“Runs are designed taking those capacities into account,” OCPS

Administrator for Media Relations

Michael Ollendorff said. “Also, standard procedures are that a driver will not depart unless all students are sitting in a seat.”

Sandy Lynne, who has a student attending Horizon High School, said her daughter is in dual enrollment and OCPS is supposed to provide transportation.

“They have finally gotten that sorted out, but if her bus is late in the morning, she will miss her bus from Horizon to Orange Technical College,” she said. “If she drives to school, she still has to either take a bus from there (keep in mind it’s the opposite direction of our house), or she can drive from there. We share a car, however, and they will not allow her to occasionally drive to OTC. It’s all or nothing. They have yet to explain why if a bus from here is late and she chooses to drive why she can’t drive directly to OTC. Or on days she can’t drive because of my work schedule she can take a bus, while on days she can drive she could drive from here to there.”

Lynne said her daughter is the only student at the school who attends OTC, so she rides on a bus by herself there and back.

Other parents believe poor communication is making the problem worse.

Kristin Patricia, who has twins at SunRidge Middle School, said not only are the buses never on time but also delays are not communicated with a proper warning.

“I go on their dashboard that is supposed to be up to date with any bus delays, but SunRidge Middle School is never on the list, yet it is late every day for dismissal,” she said. “When it says it’s on campus, we will get a text an hour or more later saying it’s leaving. My neighbor picked up the kids yesterday. We got a text saying their bus was on campus. She said there was no bus there. It’s maddening!”

Laura Laytham, who also has a student at Hamlin Middle, said the first month of school the bus was constantly late, arriving after 9:30 a.m. when school starts at 9:30 a.m.

“Two weeks ago, my daughter said she heard at school that the bus driver quit in the middle of the day, so their route had to get picked up by another bus after that driver did their first route,” Laytham said. “So they weren’t picked up until almost 5 p.m. and got home close to 6 p.m. What is frustrating is that if the driver did quit, the management of the bus system knew that ahead and could have communicated that to the school, who then could communicate to parents so that we know which bus will be excessively late. Then we can decide if we want to have the kids wait or go pick them up. The lack of communication is the biggest failure above all.”

Laytham said she emailed the principal at the school and asked her to advocate for the school since parents

are not allowed to have their students ride bikes or walk. The principal never replied.

A NUMBERS GAME OCPS bus drivers currently are paid between $16.65 and $19.98 per hour. Benefits for bus drivers hired by OCPS include retirement packages through the Florida Retirement System, paid employee health insurance valued at $9,289, uniform program for bus operators and mechanics, no weekends or late night shifts, as well as paid holidays and 10 sick days.

“It’s a crisis because there are so many jobs out there,” Gould said. “If you want to drive, you can be making over $100,000 a year long-hauling or working for one of the bigger companies (such as) Amazon or Walmart. These drivers have a lot of choices, and of course, they’re going to do what’s best for their families.”

Gould said district officials are doing everything they possibly can to explore options.

“We have very dedicated bus drivers who want to support our students, but they can’t break driving laws, they’re often having two to three routes, and it is causing a big pinch in how we deliver kids to and from schools, among other things (such as) games and field trips, and all those things that are so essential to their whole learning,” she said.

“We just can’t be competitive, and as long as we’re not competitive in the market, we’re going to struggle.”

DRIVEN TO DRIVE?

“If you want to drive, you can be making over $100,000 a year long-hauling or working for one of the bigger companies (such as) Amazon or Walmart. These drivers have a lot of choices, and of course, they’re going to do what’s best for their families.”

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES: bit.ly/3PJgIUq

REQUIREMENTS AND BENEFITS: bit.ly/3PJcVXa

— District 4 Orange County School Board Member Pam Gould

The bus driver shortage continues to cause problems for Orange County Public Schools, as well as parents and students.

Annabelle Sikes

Orange County Public Schools Transportation Services still needs about 100 drivers to cover absences, long-term leave, workers’ compensation and vacancies.

Windermere High School students start pre-law club

JOIN THE CLUB

WHEN: 2:30 to 3 p.m. Tuesdays or Thursdays

WHERE: Windermere High School, Room 5-110 MORE INFORMATION: bit.ly/3t3ZwA0

ANNABELLE SIKES NEWS EDITOR

Amiddle school civics classroom is where Windermere High School senior Paulo Moreira first fell in love with the art of law.

He was intrigued by the concept of helping people through the profession.

However, when he started at Windermere as a freshman, he couldn’t find any classes, organizations or clubs on campus to further explore that interest.

“I wanted to make a difference on a bigger scale and to be a better citizen in helping make society what it is,” he said. “After that, it motivated me to figure out the possibilities law could give me in a career and what resources I would need. I quickly realized I didn’t really have anywhere to go to learn about or get information when it comes to law.”

Rather than abandoning the interest, Moreira leaned into it and now has helped establish the school’s first pre-law club.

“That sprung the idea of creating this club to help students coming into the school to give them an opportunity to learn more about law and the importance of it,” he said. “I want this club to make that part of the process easier so people don’t have to go through all those extra steps that I did. I didn’t really have anyone to go to so hopefully this can help students.”

LAYING DOWN THE LAW

WHS’ pre-law club is led by five officers: Moreira, president; Nicolas Mujica, vice president; Raissa Oliveira, treasurer; Maria Victoria Sacchi, secretary; and Maria Fernanda Sacchi, historian.

The new club is sponsored by Carroll Stoner, physics teacher, and welcomes all students that hold a passion or interest to pursue a career in law.

Maria Victoria Sacchi said the goal of the club is to find students at the school who have an interest in law but may need a little guidance on where to go with that interest.

“We want to have mock trials and stuff like that to give a hands-on approach,” she said. “We also want to find volunteer opportunities and internships for students so they can get involved outside of the classroom. Providing that additional experience will help students figure out if law truly is something they want to do because the process is long and hard.”

For the mock trials, the officers plan to have a script only they know. The other students will have to find evidence, analyze the case and present findings based on the information given.

The officers would also like to bring in professionals who are established in the field to serve as guest speakers.

The club, which hosted its first meeting last week, already boasts about 50 members, and that number is growing.

One of Moreira’s personal goals with the club is to eliminate the fear of law being too difficult to pursue and to expose students to the different ways they can use law, showcasing there’s not just one type.

Mujica said Moreira’s idea for the club sparked his interest in a possible law career.

Mujica said a common misconception is that a decision to become a lawyer must start when a student declares his or her major.

“You can pretty much take any major you want and then still take the LSAT and get accepted into law college,” he said. “We want to make sure to explain that to students right off the bat.”

As the only sophomore officer, Maria Fernanda Sacchi still isn’t sure where she wants to go to college or what she wants to study. However, the club gives her the ability to learn and explore an option.

“Law is always something that’s really interested me, so when my friends told me about their idea for the club it got me really excited,” she said.

Maria Victoria Sacchi realized a lot of students at the school are interested in law but don’t have guidance as to what to do with that interest.

“We wanted to provide resources and a space for people who have the similar interest in law,” she said. “It was a hard process to go through all the steps and the paperwork, but we did get it done, and we’re excited to explore and have fun with it this year.”

PERSONAL PASSIONS

Mujica said his father, a lawyer, also inspired his interest in the career.

“I’ve always been a really big history buff, and I love politics a lot,” he said. “The last elections, I would even watch all the debates because I just have interest in that stuff. My brother’s fiancee is also in the law field. She took me to the court, and I had the opportunity to shadow a judge. Since that moment, I’ve just been com-

pletely in love with the whole process. Not just the cases and the court, but everything else that goes on behind the scenes too, like the research and the reading.”

Oliveira’s father also is a lawyer.

“I’ve been watching him since I was a kid,” she said. “I noticed that my dad always really enjoyed what he does and that made me want to learn more, even though I never really had an interest in law before.”

Because she teaches four different classes, Stoner typically does not sponsor clubs but said the students inspired her with their passion and dedication.

“It’s nice to see the students so excited about learning outside of just the lessons and classes we teach,” she said. “They have a genuine interest in wanting to expand their learning and help others.”

Oliveira thinks law is about more than just being a lawyer.

“It can involve so many different aspects and there are so many routes you can take it,” she said. “That’s one of the best parts about it, that you can do so much with it.”

Mujica plans to pursue a career in law. He hopes to attend college and major in political science before attending law school.

Moreira has a desire to go to law school but wants to explore the government side of the profession.

“I just love the way we can kind of use law in the government to make changes and have a positive impact on the way people live their lives,” he said.

The officers hope to grow interest in the club as much as possible and emphasize everyone is welcome.

Mujica wants to make sure the club stays at the school even after the seniors graduate.

“We want to make sure our meetings are entertaining and our members can be active in participation,” he said.

“The sad thing about being seniors is there is no next year for us here at the school,” Moreira said. “We don’t know what’s going to happen, so hopefully, students enjoy the idea enough to keep it going. It’s kind of our legacy.”

If there are any professionals interested in guest speaking at future prelaw club meetings, the officers ask those interested to reach out to the school directly.

“If we are to build a better world, we must remember that the guiding principle is this — a policy of freedom for the individual is the only truly progressive policy.”

Friedrich Hayek

“Road to Serfdom,” 1944 Editor and Publisher / Michael Eng, meng@OrangeObserver.com

Design Editor / Jessica Eng, jeng@OrangeObserver.com

News Editor / Annabelle Sikes, asikes@OrangeObserver.com

Community Editor / Amy Quesinberry, amyq@OrangeObserver.com

Staff Writer / Andrea Mujica, amujica@OrangeObserver.com

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Multimedia Advertising Executive / Iggy Collazo, iggy@OrangeObserver.com

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CONTACT US

The West Orange Times West Orange Times & Observer and Southwest Orange Observer are published once weekly, on Thursdays. The papers can be found in many commercial locations throughout West Orange and Southwest Orange.

If you wish to subscribe, visit our website, OrangeObserver.com, call (407) 656-2121 or visit our office, 661 Garden Commerce Parkway, Suite 180, Winter Garden.

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PUBLIC NOTICES

The West Orange Times meets the legal requirements to publish legal and public notices in Orange County per F.S. 50.011

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WEST ORANGE TIMES

The West Orange Times (USPS 687120) is published weekly for $60 per year and $110 per two years by the Observer Media Group, 661 Garden Commerce Parkway, Winter Garden, Florida, 34787. Periodical postage paid at Winter Garden, Florida.

POSTMASTER: Send changes of address to the (name of pub; i.e., West Orange Times, West Orange Times & Observer or Southwest Orange Observer), Observer Media Group, 14004 Roosevelt Blvd., Suite 606 Clearwater, FL 33762-9908.

Observer Media Group Inc. is locally owned. Publisher of the Longboat Observer, East County Observer, Sarasota Observer, Siesta Key Observer, Palm Coast Observer, Ormond Beach Observer, West Orange Times & Observer, Southwest Orange Observer, Business Observer, Jacksonville Daily Record, Jacksonville Record & Observer, LWR Life Magazine, Baldwin Park Living Magazine and Season Magazine

Founding Editor and CEO / Matt Walsh President / Emily Walsh Vice President / Lisa Walsh

Chairman Emeritus / David Beliles 1970 Main St. Third Floor Sarasota, FL 34236 941-366-3468

Annabelle Sikes

The club is led by five officers: Nicolas Mujica, vice president; Raissa Oliveira, treasurer; Paulo Moreira, president; Maria Victoria Sacchi, secretary; and Maria Fernanda Sacchi, historian.

Proud to be an ‘us-y’

Lisa Walsh coined the term “us-y” — a sort of shorthand we use in our company to describe the kind of person who fits in with our culture and who we think will succeed here. It means trustworthy and honest, hardworking and dependable, innovative and collaborative. It means bold but not boastful. It means finding a way to say yes. It means living by the Golden Rule.

So often during hiring and firing decisions, the question, “Is this person an us-y?” will arise. And the answer to that question reveals the way we go.

Observer Media Group co-owner Lisa Walsh dies at 69

Lisa Walsh was a pillar in the Sarasota-Manatee community; a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister and daughter; and the backbone of one of the most successful media companies in Florida.

From the day she started editing the Longboat Observer to the day she handed over editing duties of the four newspapers she built with her husband, there was never a frantic rush, never a shout, never a tense flurry of activity to meet deadlines.

No matter how late the papers to the printers or how big the story, Lisa Walsh was never anything but poised.

It had nothing to do with how much she cared about the papers — and make no mistake, she cared down to the comma — running around barking orders or breathing down reporters’ necks to get copy just wasn’t her nature.

But that doesn’t mean she wasn’t effective. As she leaned over your desk and said, “We’re going to need that story now,” writers got the message.

Despite her petite 5-foot-4 frame, perfectly styled hair and manicured nails, she was tough. And everyone knew it.

Of course, everyone knew this by the way she faced challenges — head on. She sought solutions instead of indulging in problems. She let logic prevail over emotion. And in her understated way, whether it was navigating three deadlines a week, sorting out a crisis at a nonprofit or even battling a rare form of Parkinson’s disease for seven years, she led with patience, grace and dignity.

It was that way until the end. She died at 12:25 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 14, 2023, from complications from her Parkinson’s. She was 69.

Walsh died at Sarasota Memorial Hospital. When her health began

deteriorating rapidly Tuesday, Sept. 12, doctors gave her four to six hours to live. She kept going for 27 more. “My mother, tiny though she was, was incredibly strong and determined and never gave up,” said Emily Walsh, her eldest daughter. Walsh was surrounded when she died by her husband Matt and three adult children, Emily, Kate and Brian. Emily is president of the Observer Media Group and lives in Sarasota with her husband, Pat Robinson, and son Rhys, 13, and stepson, Colin, 13; Kate lives in Colorado Springs and is a co-owner and artistic director of a 500-student ballet school; and Brian lives in Hampstead, North Carolina, where he is a major in the Marines and married to Maria Amodio Walsh; they have two children, Maeve, 6, and Jackson, 3.  Walsh is also survived by her father, David Beliles, who lives in Sarasota, and her brother, David Beliles Jr., who lives in Lincoln, Nebraska.

— KAT WINGERT AND MARK GORDON, OBSERVER

Like Lisa and Matt, I earned my degree from the University of Missouri School of Journalism, noted as one of the top journalism schools in the world (and the oldest in the United States). However, my education in this wild industry did not truly begin until I started my career at Observer Media Group.

In school, there was one particular professor whose mere mention caused every aspiring reporter to quake. Even years before you’d ever have an encounter with her, you knew her name. Her presence loomed like the end boss of a video game.

And indeed, she was tough — her red-ink comments on your copy felt like daggers, and it seemed everyone’s tails were perpetually between their legs.

But here’s the problem: There was no resolution, no full-circle, “Atta boy,” at the end. We all just received our degrees, turned our tassels and left.

I didn’t have the privilege of working directly with Lisa until about a decade into my career at OMG. But even so, her unique and distinct fingerprints were all over our start-up East County Observer newspaper. Our version of hyperlocal news (no news is too small), our color palette, our design — it was all Lisa.

In about 2011, my cheese moved, and I was brought into

the downtown Sarasota office to work more closely with the other OMG editors and directly with Lisa. Naturally, I came in thinking I already knew everything.

Oops.

Forget daggers. There were some days I felt like samurai swords had pierced my very soul. I started questioning everything I thought I knew about news, newspapers, photography, editing, deadlines, headlines. At times, I even wondered if I really wasn’t cut out for journalism, after all.

And then came the conversation that changed my and my family’s lives forever.

We want to open a new paper in Plant City. And we want you to go and do it.

It all clicked. I was being put through a gauntlet of sorts — not as some cruel joke but rather to prepare me for every possible challenge that could lie ahead. It wasn’t that Lisa didn’t believe in me. It was that she did.  Atta boy, indeed.

Since that year — now more than a decade ago — I’ve been able to take on every role and challenge sent my way with the confidence and knowledge that Lisa thought I was good enough to handle it.

Even though Lisa was not directly involved with the Plant City newspaper or our newspapers here in West Orange, she has been and will continue to be on every page of every edition we publish. Most important, she’s in our daily interactions with one another and with our readers — in how we treat other people. She defined our corporate culture — aka The Observer Way. It probably should just be called The Lisa Way.

Lisa was a mom to all of us — and her drive for great journalism, for philanthropy and for building a company on the right values is at the heart of everything we do. She was a titan in the news industry, and we will miss her terribly.

— MICHAEL ENG

Residents rally for ramp access

ANNABELLE

SIKES NEWS EDITOR

Windermere is considering an expansion of its hours for the gate at the Fernwood Boat Ramp following a Town Council meeting Tuesday, Sept. 12. The Parks & Recreation Committee has made a recommendation for the council to consider a time change for the gate. The ramp currently is open from dawn to dusk to follow Orange County standards. The committee said its members have received some feedback and would like the council to consider 5 a.m. to 11 p.m. as hours of operation.

Parks & Recreation Chair Nora Brophy voiced support for extending the Fernwood Boat Ramp hours.

“Now that the fences are up and that seems to have really alleviated the problem of people always coming there and trying to go to Bird Island, maybe we could expand the hours for residents a bit; people who already have boat passes,” she said. “So they could leave early in the morning if they want to go out fishing … or make sure if they’re watching fireworks and they don’t get back until 9:30 (p.m.) that they can still get their boat in.”

EXTENDING THE HOURS

Resident Kim Head supported the measure.

“It should be open 24/7,” she said. “That’s the whole reason our family bought our house. That’s the whole reason we live in Windermere. For us to have any time cut off is just not right.”

Resident Lesha Miller emailed her comments to be read at the meeting.

“We are so excited about how well the gate codes are working and how quiet Fernwood now is,” she said. “I appreciate being able to speak to most of you about allowing residents to use

one of our best amenities in town.

Sunset cruises, Disney fireworks and early-morning fishing are staples in our town. Please consider allowing the boat ramp to stay open after sunset.”

Mayor Jim O’Brien believes the town should proceed cautiously with any changes.

“I know that we truly wanted to make sure that we took this slow and we made sure … it was working,” he said. “With the exception of a couple of hours, all the feedback I get has been super positive. … I did talk to Tonya (Elliott-Moore) about this a little bit, and she mentioned that we may need some lighting there if we’re going to have some extended hours in the

dark. … My take on it is I would rather proceed cautiously based upon the fact that we have just kind of regained what I would consider to be … a much better situation for those individuals that live down there.”

Town Council Member Tony Davit believes now that the fencing is up, access should not be restricted outside of what has been instituted.

“It’s not up to us to govern the way that people enjoy the lakes … ,” he said. “If I want to go out at two in the morning and launch my boat for a 2 to 4 cruise, that should be up to me to decide, not necessarily the Town Council.”

Town Council Member Tom Stroup agreed with Davit.

“We have a key access pad now (that) shows every person that comes and goes no matter what time of day,” he said. “We have cameras down there (that) will show the bad activities, so to speak, and we can adjust. I say give it a chance at 24/7. If there’s a problem, we pull it back and say we tried.

… I don’t want to re-create the same problem we just fixed, but under the circumstances, I’m really holding the residents of Windermere accountable

IN OTHER NEWS

n The Windermere Town Council approved unanimously a resolution for the non-ad valorem assessment roll for streetlights for The Willows at Lake Rhea Phases 1, 2 and 3. Each resident previously was paying $113.70 a year to cover the cost of the street lights. As Duke Energy increased the costs, on the next tax bill each resident will be required to pay $116.82. This is a total increase of $3.12.

n Council members approved unanimously an interlocal agreement between the city of Apopka and the town for the town to utilize the city’s firearms range to provide training and firearm transition classes for its law enforcement officers. The town previously used the city of Ocoee’s, but the facility is under construction.

for their own actions.”

Davit made a motion to open the boat ramp 24/7 with or without lighting. The lighting issue will be investigated separately.

The motion passed unanimously.

LICENSE TO DRIVE

Council members also approved unanimously the first reading of an ordinance pertaining to the operation of golf carts on public roads or streets in the town.

The ordinance amends the town’s code by requiring any person operating a golf cart on designated town roads or streets to have a valid learner’s permit or driver’s license.

The ordinance reflects changes made by House Bill 949, which was signed into law by Gov. Ron DeSantis in May.

Although Florida law has previously allowed anyone age 14 and older to drive a golf cart, the new bill states golf cart drivers under age 18 must be at least 15 with a learner’s permit or 16 with a driver’s license.

In addition, anyone who is age 18 or older must have a valid governmentissued ID to drive a golf cart.

n Windermere officials approved unanimously Tracy McLaughlin and Stephen Dimino as new members of the Parks & Recreation Committee.

n The Town Council approved unanimously Joan Foglia, Vicki Hearst and Bonnie DiCocco as new members of the Windermere Tree Board.

n The Windermere Town Council approved unanimously a contract for low-level safety lighting at the parking lot at West Fifth Avenue.

n Council members discussed construction work in the town on Sundays and federal holidays. Windermere officials opted to review surrounding municipalities ordinances and consider options moving forward.

The ramp currently is open from dawn to dusk to follow Orange County standards.

“It should be open 24/7. That’s the whole reason our family bought our house. That’s the whole reason we live in Windermere. For us to have any time cut off is just not right.”

— Kim Head, Windermere resident

Courtesy photo

The ramp is located along the Lake Butler shoreline, with the entrance on West Seventh Avenue and Butler Street.

St. Luke’s UMC to host TheoEd Orlando

TheoEd will make its first visit to Orlando at 4 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 24.

ANDREA MUJICA STAFF WRITER

TheoEd, a faith-based speaker series inspired by TED Talks, is coming this weekend to St. Luke’s United Methodist Church in Southwest Orange.

“We wanted to sort of reimagine the ways in which people who are interested in faith get to explore questions that matter to them,” TheoEd Founding Director Ryan Bonfiglio said. “In the church world, the typical formats are the sermon … or a long academic lecture. … And we knew that most people aren’t drawn to those things. But, we did know that people by the billions were being drawn to the short format, highly polished, no-notes talks that TED really had popularized.”

Hence, TheoEd provides a space for those who are interested in learning more about the church and are curious about topics that involve the Bible, theology and spirituality.

“Our rule of thumb is to follow the passions and the expertise of the speakers that we work with,” Bonfi-

IF YOU GO

THEOED WHEN: 4 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 24

WHERE: Founder’s Hall at St.

Luke’s United Methodist Church, 4851 S. Apopka-Vineland Road, Orlando

TICKETS: $15. Table tickets

(eight people) are $75

WEBSITE: st.lukes.org/theoed

INFORMATION: Email TheoEd@emory.edu

MEET THE SPEAKERS

glio said. “We’ve had themes from poverty to body image to the problem of suicide all the way over to questions of science and faith. What does salvation mean? We’ve had a number of talks about racism and social justice. We’ve had talks about affordable-housing problem. We’ve had talks about things that are more specific to the church or specific to Scripture. It really is a wide range of topics that have surfaced.”

The event is sponsored by The Candler Foundry at Emory University’s Candler School of Theology, and the Orlando event will feature speakers Jacqui Lewis, Brian McLaren, Lydia Muñoz, Luke Powery, Clay Price and Cliff Price.

“We really want the event not to feel like church,” Bonfiglio said. “We’ve noticed that many people have actually left the church — not because of a lack of spiritual interest but because the church hasn’t been for them a place that’s been hospitable and welcoming to their lives, to their choices and to the questions they have.”

TheoEd’s ultimate goal is to bring people together and spark conversations of importance among people with different views about the world, faith, religion who come from different backgrounds.

“My hopefulness is that people, who are different from one another, can have some space to have conversations to engage in ideas that might actually shift how they think about themselves, how they think about God and how they think about the communities that they live in,” Bonfiglio said. “What TheoEd is designed to do is not answer all those questions about faith but to spark conversations that help people far beyond the event of TheoEd to explore and be curious with one another about how faith relates to the issues and questions that are pressing in our world today.”

A senior minister and public theologian at Middle Church in New York, Lewis advocates for racial equality, gun control, economic justice and equal rights for all sexual orientations and genders through her activism, preaching, speaking, writing and teaching. She has been featured in “The Today Show,” “All in with Chris Hayes,” “AM Joy,” “The Melissa Harris Perry Show,” among others.

An author, speaker, activist and public theologian, McLaren is a former college English teacher and pastor. He is a faculty member of The Living School and participates in the podcast “Learning How to See.” McLaren also is a book author and a co-host of “Southern Lights.”

An ordained elder in the Eastern Pennsylvania Conference of The United Methodist Church, Muñoz serves as executive director for the National Plan for Hispanic/Latino Seminary. Muñoz has been a leader of worship for more than 20 years in different countries and has experience developing ministries that focus on serving justice among marginalized and multicultural communities.

The dean of Duke University Chapel, Powery is an associate professor of homiletics — the theological study of the art of preaching — at Duke Divinity School. He delivers sermons regularly at Duke Chapel and at different churches around the country as well as internationally. Powery bases his teaching and research in preaching, worship, pneumatology and culture particularly to the expressions of the African diaspora. He is the author of numerous books such as “Dem Dry Bones: Preaching, Death and Hope.”

A coordinator with Talent Casting and Booking who specializes in celebrity talent, Price started a career with Disney in 1997 as a percussionist with the Disney All-American College Orchestra. He obtained his degree in music education from the University of Georgia and soon after moved to Orlando to be a full-time cast member with Walt Disney World Entertainment. Price was a drummer for the “Tapestry of Nations” parade at Epcot and currently acts as substitute pianist for the Magic Music Days choral workshops.

Originally from Wrightsville, Georgia, Price is an entertainment stage manager and art director for Disney Parks and Resorts and Disney Live Entertainment. He obtained a degree in environmental design and landscape architecture from the University of Georgia, where he was a member of the Redcoat Marching Band. Price started his career with Disney Parks Live Entertainment in 1998 as an entertainment cast member and has entertained guests locally and internationally.

Oakland officials approve tentative millage rate, budget

The tentatively approved budget for Fiscal Year 2023-24 is $25.4 million, with a millage rate at 6.3.

AMY QUESINBERRY COMMUNITY EDITOR

The Oakland Town Commission held a budget hearing Monday, Sept. 11, and approved the tentative millage rate and tentative budget for Fiscal Year 2023-24, which begins Oct. 1 and ends Sept. 30, 2024.

The proposed millage rate for the new fiscal year is 6.3, the same rate as the current fiscal year. The town typically lowers the millage rate every two years. The millage rate was 6.75 for FY 2015-16, 2016-17 and 2017-18. In FY18-19, the rate was 6.65, followed by two years at 6.5 and one year at 6.4. It was lowered to 6.3 for FY 2022-23.

“Our budget is balanced with 6.3 mills,” Town Manager Andy Stewart said.

Stewart said the town could not

lower the millage rate without affecting town services.

“We did not decrease the millage rate because of increases to the General Fund (expenses),” Stewart said.

“Orange County Fire Rescue (expenses) increased.”

The tentative FY 2023-24 budget was approved at $25,931,440. This breaks down to $8,574,987 for the General Fund, $5,443,585 for the Utility/Enterprise Fund, $5,307,307 for the Impact Fee Fund and 6,605,561 for Oakland Avenue Charter School.

Stewart shared details of the budget in a report to the commission.

The budget for the General Fund includes a 4% cost-of-living increase for town staff and a 4% increase to the employees’ health-insurance premiums; two temporary succession-planning positions in finance

and public works; and reallocates the administrative assistant position in the town manager’s office to the vacant facility rentals coordinator position at the Healthy West Orange Arts and Heritage Center. The reallocation will allow the center to extend operating hours during the week and enhance activities and programs for residents. The transfer saves the town $60,000 in payroll expenses.

The Enterprise Budget funds a new utility service worker position in the water department and funds the design of the town’s Lake Apopka alternative water source project.

There have been no changes to the Impact Fee budget.

The General Fund has a contingency of $220,933, and Stewart said Oakland’s auditor wants the town to have more in reserves.

“The contingency does provide a good cushion,” Stewart said.

“There’s a lot of work that’s gone into this, and I will say this is a pretty

IN OTHER NEWS

n The town of Oakland proclaimed Sept. 17 to 23 Constitution Week.

n Mayor Kathy Stark announced her State of the Town address will be given Monday, Oct. 16, at the Oakland Meeting Hall.

tight budget this year,” Mayor Kathy Stark said. “There’s not a lot of room for expenditures unless we find grants.”

The final budget hearing is at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 26, at the Oakland Meeting Hall.

REGULAR AGENDA

The regular Town Commission meeting followed the budget hearing. Elected officials approved the consent agenda, which included

approval for assignments identified as out-of-field for 17 teachers at the charter school. All but two were identified as out-of-field in the area of English as a Second Language.

In the town manager’s report, Stewart announced Regan Reynolds was hired as human resources director and administrative specialist Stefanie Hicks has been tapped to fill the position of facility rentals coordinator.

Also in Stewart’s report, he said the town will be submitting a request to the state legislature for the south Lake Apopka septic-to-sewer initiative in the amount of $650,000. This project will extend central sewer to the four existing municipal buildings currently served by septic systems, provide central sewer to the two adjacent utility buildings, provide for septic system elimination to about 15 existing residential and commercial properties, and provide capacity to serve future development in the area.

JACQUI LEWIS

BRIAN D. MCLAREN

LYDIA ESTHER MUÑOZ

LUKE A. POWERY

CLAY PRICE

CLIFF PRICE

Lake Butler Estates home sells for $2M

A home in the Lake Butler Estates community in Windermere topped all West Orange-area residential real-estate transactions from Sept. 3 to 9.

The home at 11503 Lake Butler Blvd., Windermere, sold Sept. 5, for $2 million.

Built in 1992, it has five bedrooms, five baths and 4,336 square feet of living area. Days on market: 418. The selling agent was Michael “Bo” Julian, Julian Properties Inc.

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

HORIZON WEST HAMLIN RESERVE

The home at 6373 Flat Lemon Drive, Winter Garden, sold Sept. 6, for $575,000. Built in 2018, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,066 square feet of living area. Days on market: 17.

HIGHLAND RIDGE

The home at 14305 Braemar St., Winter Garden, sold Sept. 6, for $515,775. Built in 2023, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,011 square feet of living area.

INDEPENDENCE

The home at 7149 Broomshedge Trail, Winter Garden, sold Sept. 5, for $743,000. Built in 2008, it has four bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 3,117 square feet of living area. Days on market: Nine.

LAKESHORE PRESERVE

The townhouse at 8920 Bismarck Palm Drive, Winter Garden, sold Sept. 9, for $535,000. Built in 2018, it has three bedrooms, twoand-one-half baths and 2,052 square feet of living area. Days on market: 55.

LAKEVIEW POINTE

The home at 7231 Enchanted Lake Drive, Winter Garden, sold Sept. 5, for $1,075,000. Built in 2016, it has five bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths and 3,645 square feet of living area. Days on market: 21.

OVERLOOK 2 AT HAMLIN

The home at 15090 Shonan Gold Drive, Winter Garden, sold Sept. 8, for $1,580,000. Built in 2020, it has four bedrooms, four baths and 3,487 square feet of living area.

PANTHER VIEW

The home at 9038 Pinch Shot Drive, Winter Garden, sold Sept. 5, for $775,000. Built in 2019, it has five bedrooms, three baths and 3,296 square feet of living area. Days on market: Three.

STOREY GROVE

The home at 17167 Writing Alley, Winter Garden, sold Sept. 8, for $572,500. Built in 2020, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 2,502 square feet of living area. Days on market: Six.

SUMMERPORT

The home at 4344 Indian Deer Road, Windermere, sold Sept. 6, for $738,000. Built in 2006, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,412 square feet of living area. Days on market: 11.

WATERMARK

The home at 14722 Seton Creek Blvd., Winter Garden, sold Sept. 5, for $670,000. Built in 2019, it has four bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 2,078 square feet of living area. Days on market: 63.

WINDERMERE SOUND

The home at 13260 Penshurst Lane, Windermere, sold Sept. 8, for $565,000. Built in 2015, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,076 square feet of living area. Days on market: 21.

WINDING BAY

The home at 15463 Lebeau Loop, Winter Garden, sold Sept. 8, for $705,900. Built in 2023, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 2,540 square feet of living area. Days on market: 27.

OCOEE

ARDEN PARK NORTH

The home at 1711 Lake Sims Parkway, Ocoee, sold Sept. 8, for $520,000. Built in 2019, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,543 square feet of living area. Days on market: 22.

The home at 2821 Red Alder Blvd., Ocoee, sold Sept. 7, for $485,000. Built in 2018, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,938 square feet of living area. Days on market: 19.

ARDEN PARK SOUTH

The home at 1523 Terra Verde Way, Ocoee, sold Sept. 6, for $570,000. Built in 2017, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,176 square feet of living area. Days on market: Two.

FOREST TRAILS

The home at 2381 Laurel Blossom Circle, Ocoee, sold Sept. 5, for $580,000. Built in 2006, it has six bedrooms, four-and-onehalf baths and 3,753 square feet of living area. Days on market: 107.

FORESTBROOKE

The home at 3234 Fawnwood Drive, Ocoee, sold Sept. 8, for $465,000. Built in 2005, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,334 square feet of living area. Days on market: 23.

HARBOUR HIGHLANDS

The home at 814 E. Harbour Court, Ocoee, sold Sept. 7, for $400,000. Built in 1984, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 1,768 square feet of living area. Days on market: Six.

VILLAGES OF WESMERE

The home at 1980 Leather Fern Drive, Ocoee, sold Sept. 6, for $605,000. Built in 2014, it has four bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 2,603 square feet of living area. Days on market: Six.

WINDERMERE BUTLER BAY

The home at 2229 Butler Bay Drive N., Windermere, sold Sept. 5, for $1,420,000. Built in 1989, it has five bedrooms, four baths and 3,600 square feet of living area. Days on market: 160.

The home at 2241 Lake Crescent Court, Windermere, sold Sept. 8, for $1,550,000. Built in 1989, it has four bedrooms, three-andone-half baths and 3,299 square feet of living area. Days on market: 154.

CRESCENT LAKE ESTATES

The home at 2625 Crescent Lake Court, Windermere, sold Sept. 7, for $838,000. Built in 1990, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,911 square feet of living area.

Days on market: 43.

ESTANCIA AT WINDERMERE

The home at 1109 Estancia Woods Loop, Windermere, sold Sept. 8, for $1,225,000. Built in 2020, it has four bedrooms, four baths and 3,493 square feet of living area.

Days on market: 40.

KEENE’S POINTE

The home at 5938 Blakeford Drive, Windermere, sold Sept. 6, for $1,750,000. Built in 1999, it has five bedrooms, four-and-onehalf baths and 4,210 square feet of living area. Days on market: 82.

The home at 6548 Lake Burden View Drive, Windermere, sold Sept. 8, for $1,600,000. Built in 2006, it has four bedrooms, four baths and 3,675 square feet of living area. Days on market: Two.

LAKE BUTLER ESTATES

The home at 11503 Lake Butler Blvd., Windermere, sold Sept. 5, for $2 million. Built in 1992, it has five bedrooms, five baths and 4,336 square feet of living area.

Days on market: 418.

TOWN OF WINDERMERE

The home at 323 E. Seventh Ave., Windermere, sold Sept. 5, for $1,160,000. Built in 2013, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,338 square feet of living area.

Days on market: 39.

UNINCORPORATED

ORANGE COUNTY

The home at 12100 McKinnon Road, Windermere, sold Sept. 8, for $1,810,000. Built in 1998, it has five bedrooms, six baths and 4,201 square feet of living area.

Days on market: Eight.

WHITNEY ISLES AT BELMERE

The home at 1361 Whitney Isles Drive, Windermere, sold Sept. 6, for $620,000. Built in 2006, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,787 square feet of living area. Days on market: 39.

WILLOWS AT LAKE RHEA

The home at 11400 Willow Stowe Lane, Windermere, sold Sept. 5, for $915,000. Built in 1989, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,515 square feet of living area. Days on market: Two.

WINTER GARDEN

AMBERLEIGH

The home at 341 Lake Amberleigh Drive, Winter Garden, sold Sept. 7, for $506,000. Built in 2003, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,078 square feet of living area. Days on market: Seven.

BANANA BAY ESTATES

The home at 13566 Banana Bay Drive, Winter Garden, sold Sept. 5, for $675,000. Built in 1997, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,417 square feet of living area. Days on market: 44.

CANOPY OAKS

The home at 682 Canopy Estates Drive, Winter Garden, sold Sept. 7, for $1,200,000. Built in 2018, it has four bedrooms, four-andone-half baths and 3,665 square feet of living area. Days on market: 23.

ELLMAN PARK

The home at 509 S. Lakeview Ave., Winter Garden, sold Sept. 7, for $805,000. Built in 2023, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,351 square feet. Days on market: 104.

JOHNS LAKE POINTE

The home at 15326 Heron Hideaway Circle, Winter Garden, sold Sept. 5, for $850,000. Built in 2013, it has five bedrooms, four baths and 4,178 square feet of living area. Days on market: 53.

PARK PLACE

The townhouse at 466 Hazelnut Court, Winter Garden, sold Sept. 7, for $770,000. Built in 2019, it has three bedrooms, two-andone-half baths and 1,794 square feet. Days on market: 66.

WATERSIDE ON JOHNS LAKE

The home at 17367 Channel Way, Winter Garden, sold Sept. 7, for $816,000. Built in 2019, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 2,932 square feet. Days on market: 24.

LeClair, 360 Images

home at 682 Canopy Estates Drive, Winter Garden, sold Sept. 7, for $1,200,000. It was the largest transaction in Winter Garden from Sept. 3 to 9. The selling agent was Jared Dunn, LPT Realty.

THESE OLD TIMES

50 years ago

Letter to the Editor: “To elementary students, During the past two years I have been privileged to work with the elementary students at Maxey, Dillard Street, Winter Garden and Tildenville schools. Most of the children knew me as Sgt. Decker. I am no longer with the police department in Winter Garden, and I will miss presenting safety and drug abuse programs. Children, I will always be your friend. Feel free to call on me at any time. I am presently with the Ocoee Police Department. Stop by and see me when you can. Sincerely, your friend, Ed Decker.”

40 years ago

Millie Keneipp opened a new monogramming shop called Monograms By Millie in the West Orange Shopping Center on Dillard Street. She invited folks in to get personalization and logos on everything from shirts, jackets and sweaters to towels, tote bags and canvas-back chairs.

Alice Marshall, owner of Finders Keepers, an antique and used furniture shop on Main Street in Windermere, obtained a temporary restraining order that prevented the town of Windermere from moving the building in which her business was situated. The town owned the building and wanted to move it further down the block to make room for a recreational plan.

35 years ago

The Winter Garden City Commission gave the makers of the horror movie, “Witch Story,” permission to shoot a scene at the Edgewater Hotel. Attempts to film part of the movie in Ocoee at the WithersMaguire House were turned down

FROM THE WINTER GARDEN HERITAGE FOUNDATION

FROM THE ARCHIVES

The town of Oakland prepared to celebrate its 100th birthday in the autumn of 1987 — and resident and historian Louise Battin was outside Town Hall with a new sign commissioned to mark the town’s center. The Orange Belt Railway set up its offices in the town while preparing to lay track along the south shore of Lake Apopka.

Founder “Judge” James Gamble Speer contributed half interest in a 200-acre tract to enable the railroad to be completed to Oakland from Apopka; the town’s Speer Park is named for him. The completion of this rail system through the area — along with the later Tavares & Gulf Railroad — helped put the region on the map as a major shipper of citrus and vegetables for the next century.

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.

by the city’s commission. From Editor’s Notebook: Someone stopped at Pounds Motor Company and wanted to rent a hedging machine. When he told Herbert Pounds it was to mutilate a woman in a movie, Herbert turned him down.

30 years ago

A bulldozer knocked down the 17-year-old Ocoee City Hall in

two hours in preparation for the construction of a new municipal complex on the same site. Huber Construction was building the new facility, which included a city hall and police department.

20 years ago

The young camel seemed eager to give Ocoee Mayor Scott Vandergrift a big, sloppy kiss, but it could have been the carrot

THROWBACK THURSDAY

SEPT. 20, 1973

If you shopped at Winn Dixie in 1973, you were sure to get the latest deals on food, drinks and household goods. In its weekly full-page advertisements in The Winter Garden Times, the grocery store let shoppers know of the best prices each week.

In the meat department, one could buy one pound of sliced bacon for $1.19, three pounds of ground beef for $2.89, frozen frying chickens at 50 cents per pound and chuck roast for $1.28 per pound. Elsewhere, shoppers could score four bottles of Hunt’s ketchup, four cans of Astor fruit cocktail, four bags of shoestring potatoes or Ocoma five pot pies for a buck.

In addition, there were offerings of fine English dinnerware in the Lochs of Scotland pattern and multiple “extra top value stamps” on select items lining the shelves.

dangling from the mayor’s mouth that enticed Sir Gus closer. At the Old Geezers Game between Winter Garden and Ocoee, the mayor from the losing city had to kiss the camel. To show he was a good sport, Winter Garden Mayor Jack Quesinberry let the camel plant one on his face, as well.

celebrity cipher

Celebrity

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pets (Abbr.)

108 Opera star

109 Spaghetti ___ carbonara

112 Having a bad day

114 Enjoyable

116 Fleur de ___ (expensive salt)

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© 2023 NEA, Inc.

Puzzle One Clue: K equals Y Puzzle Two Clue: A equals V Puzzle Three Clue: T equals L

sudoku

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

SHORT FILMS by Adam Simpson, edited by Jeff Chen

By Luis Campos

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

SPORTS

Foundation’s Sam Hoenstine placed second in the 500-meter freestyle and the 200-meter IM during a tri-meet against Master’s Academy and Windermere Prep Thursday, Sept. 7. Page 2B.

GAME OF THE WEEK

WEST ORANGE (1-3) VS.

JONES (1-3)

The Horizon High School softball team announced its fall ball schedule. The varsity Lady Hawks will host West Orange at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 19; Cypress Creek at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 21; Timber Creek at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 5; and Ocoee at 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 13. Horizon will travel to Ocoee at 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 29; The First Academy at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 10; Apopka at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 17; Foundation Academy at 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 19; and East Ridge at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 25.

2

The First Academy varsity girls volleyball team defeated True North Classical Academy 2-1 Saturday, Sept. 16, during a home tournament game. As of press time, the Lady Royals own an 11-7 overall season record and a 1-0 Class 3A, District 5 record. TFA will host Windermere Prep for a non-district game at 7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 21. 3

The Lake Buena Vista girls varsity swim team defeated Cypress Creek during a dual meet Friday, Sept. 15. The Lady Vipers brought home the second win of the season with a score of 107-21 for a 2-1 overall season record. Lake Buena Vista will travel to the Rosen Aquatic Center for a dual meet against Freedom High School at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 4.

The Legacy High School girls varsity volleyball team currently owns a 6-3 overall season record and a 2-0 Class 2A, District 7 record. The Lady Eagles will next travel Ocoee High School for a non-district game at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 21.

4

Warrior from the Windy City

Senior Trever Jackson shocked the West Orange High School football community this summer when he announced he was transferring to Jones High School.

Jackson, a four-start recruit who announced recently his commitment to Ole Miss, was set to pilot a highpowered Warriors offense.

“This one hurts!” West Orange football tweeted from its official account. “Still love you, Trev. ... Wish you the best at your new school.”

However, Jackson’s decision paved a path for a new quarterback — junior Jack Reilly.

5

The Olympia High School girls and boys varsity cross country teams currently own a 1-0-1 overall season record. The Lady Titans will next travel to West Orange High School for the West Orange Invitational at 7:15 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 23.

Sophomore sets Horizon 5K record

Track athlete Maryn Whitesell broke recently the school record for the 5K race at the Hill Invitational Saturday, Sept. 9.

ANDREA MUJICA

STAFF WRITER

Horizon High School sophomore cross country athlete Maryn Whitesell broke recently the school record for the 5K with a time of 20:09.60, during the Hawks on the Hill Invitational Saturday, Sept. 9.

Horizon’s previous record (21:22.10) was held by McKenna McBride.

“It was pretty crazy when I originally got the time; I didn’t really

believe it would be that low,” Whitesell said. “During the race, I kind of felt awful, but afterwards, it felt really nice just to say that I got to that point.”

Whitesell, 15, has been competing in cross country since her freshman year of high school; she also is a part of the track and field girls varsity team for the Hawks. Prior to entering high school, however, she excelled in dance, gymnastics and soccer.

“I kind of just dropped them off and started running,” she said. “One of my friends had told me that I should try it, and it took me a very long time to try it and to sign up for it. (I got to) practice on the first day of school, and I didn’t really know anybody. But it’s been really nice, because the team is

Reilly, 17, moved to West Orange from Chicago a mere month and a half ago. In the Windy City, he played for St. Francis of Assisi School. However, his love for football began at age 5, and the sport runs in his family.

“When I was able to talk to coach

SEE NEW ON PAGE 2B

GAME OF THE WEEK

FRIDAY, SEPT. 22 7 p.m. West Orange vs. Jones

West Orange High quarterback Jack Reilly moved from Chicago just weeks before the start of the season. This week, he’ll lead the West Orange offense against Jones.

Andrea Mujica

West Orange High School newcomer quarterback Jack Reilly is excited to be a part of the Warrior family.

ANDREA MUJICA STAFF WRITER

Andrea Mujica

Maryn Whitesell has been running cross country since her freshman year of high school. This year, she runs under the tutelage of head coach Anthony Barnes.

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

Sam Hoenstine

Foundation Academy senior swimmer Sam Hoenstine has been leading the Lions for two years as the boys team captain. Hoenstine placed second in the 500-meter freestyle and the 200-meter IM during a tri-meet against Master’s Academy and Windermere Prep Thursday, Sept. 7. Hoenstine was part of the 200-meter medley relay that won the event during the meet and swam a leg of the 400-meter freestyle relay that placed second.

How did you get into swimming?

When I was in ninth grade, I started swimming because my sister, Katie Hoenstine, was leaving to college, and she wanted me to try it. I really liked it, and I started swimming club. I just liked the aspect of being a big team, where everybody practices together; we are doing the same set. I really like that. I swam club for two years, but now I’m doing high school (only). I’m (also) playing other sports as well, (such as) lacrosse, and I’m going to try for the soccer team, as well.

What do you love most about swimming as a sport?

I like that it’s physically challenging, but it’s rewarding at the same time. In a race, you are really tired, but when you start winning, you forget about it. I just like the race aspect (of the sport).

What do you believe swimming has taught you in and out of the pool?

It’s taught me that good sportsmanship and bonding with a team is important. I like that it teaches you discipline. You can have a really hard practice, but as long as you stick it out and you work hard, you will get better.

What is your favorite thing about your team?

I like my coach (Chad Sundermeyer). He’s a great coach, and I think he’s a good teacher — not only in the sport but in life, as well.

What do you think about when you are in the middle of a competition? I’m just hoping to win, get a better time.

New quarterback leads West Orange offense

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1B

THE BASICS

Sport: Swimming

Distance: 100-meter

breaststroke

Style: Breaststroke

Grade: Senior School: Foundation Academy

What is your favorite hobby? I like playing soccer on the weekends.

Who is your favorite athlete?

Why?

In soccer, (my favorite player) is Neymar Jr. I like his play style.

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

A soccer ball, a boat and a weight set — dumbbells and stuff to stay in shape.

Is there a TV series you are binge-watching right now?

“Lost.” It’s just mystery. They get stuck on an island, and there’s weird stuff happening.

If you could choose one person you admire to have dinner with, who would it be?

Probably my grandfather, Don Hoenstine. He’s got a lot of interesting stories, and I could learn a lot.

Looking back, what would you say to your 10-year-old self?

I would say if I’m interested in doing something, start early and work for it.

If you could write a letter to your future self, what would you say? Have discipline and good work

What is your biggest fear?

Ironically, deep dark water.

What is a fun fact about you?

I actually like reggaeton a lot. I like Bad Bunny and Ozuna.

Who is you favorite superhero?

I guess Batman, because he doesn’t have that many superpowers — it’s all his inventions.

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

I would say teleportation — to travel

What are three places you would like to visit? Why? Portugal, Chile and

If you could go back in time to a specific period of history, which one would it be and why? When Jesus was in His min-

What color would you say represents your personality?

Probably yellow, it’s kind of bright. It’s an energetic color.

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

Probably a bird; you can fly.

— ANDREA MUJICA

(Geno) Thompson about the program before getting here … everything he talked about was something I was looking for — family, work ethic,” he said. “West Orange has a reputation. … And (I said) that’s where I want to go. I want to be able to go to the next level, and this is that place.”

“Football is definitely a family thing,” Reilly said. “My dad played it, both my brothers played it. … My family (members) are a big sports fans.”

Through his years on the gridiron — and his weeks with the Warriors — Reilly has learned the value of leadership and how to implement it on the field.

“There are multiple ways for one to lead a team,” he said. “I do this sport because I feel like football is a great teacher. You go through adversity and just so many other things on a day-to-day basis with football that one way or another kind of represent life. So, it definitely (has taught me) how to be a leader, but it has also taught be a supporter — to be more supportive of others — and build my character. I feel like I’m able to bring hope to people during times of doubt and rally the troops.”

A crucial ability that Reilly has as a quarterback on the gridiron is to call audibles when necessary.

WEEK THREE RECAP

GAME OF THE WEEK

Dr. Phillips (2-2), 58

Windermere (3-1), 35

HIGHLIGHTS: Dr. Phillips handed Windermere its first loss of the season, 58-35, Thursday, Sept. 14. Windermere quarterback Bryce Speed went 13-for-24 for a total of 262 passing yards. Athlete Isaiah Nell carried the ball five times for 105 yards during the game. For the Panthers, quarterback Stanley Anderson-Lofton went 14-for-20 for a total of 331 passing yards. The Panthers carried the ball a total of 37 times during the game for 351 rushing yards — running backs Amari Major and Kenorris White contributed by carrying the ball 17 times for 163 yards and 13 times for 102 yards, respectively.

UP NEXT: The Wolverines will travel to Lake Buena Vista Friday, Sept. 22. The Panthers will host Boone Friday, Sept. 22.

“If he sees something on defense, if there is an opportunity there, we can check plays,” Thompson said. “He has full right to do that. … The biggest thing for him is learning. … He’s been here for a month and a half or less, and the fact is he’s plugged in and he’s still learning everybody. He is still trying to get used to the Florida heat. But, I know that once the quarterback gets acclimated to the team, the team can be acclimated to the quarterback, (and) you are going to see a completely different outcome on a week-to-week basis.”

Last year, West Orange applied the motto “Sacrifice Me for We,” and even though the Warriors are still applying it this season, the new motto is “Unfinished Business.”

“We are focusing on the word finish,” Thompson said. “It’s funny, because now we are doing a really good job in the second half, but we are not doing such a great job in the first half. So, we’ve got to continue to work as a whole.”

And to do that, the team has been working on the physicality and the endurance of all teams — offense, defense and special teams — to be ready for Friday night.

“It’s just getting them to understand that we have to start off fast,” Thompson said. “We want to play the best opponent. When we scheduled, we did not necessarily look at the schedule to have a good record; we looked at the schedule to give our

THURSDAY, SEPT. 14

Legacy Charter (1-3), 39

Trinity Prep (0-4), 0

HIGHLIGHTS: The Legacy Charter football team defeated Trinity Prep 39-0 Thursday, Sept. 14. On the defensive side of the ball, the Eagles had 48 total tackles — 27 solo tackles, 21 assisted tackles and 12 tackles-for-loss.

UP NEXT: The Eagles will travel to Windermere Prep Friday, Sept. 22.

Olympia (3-1), 39

Ocoee (2-2), 17

UP NEXT: The Titans are on a bye this week and will travel to Windermere Friday, Sept. 29.

West Orange (1-3), 9 Wekiva (2-2), 12

UP NEXT: The Warriors will host Jones Friday, Sept. 22.

FRIDAY, SEPT. 15

Foundation Academy (2-2), 14

Orlando Christian Prep (4-0), 32

HIGHLIGHTS: Running back J.T. Bronaugh carried the ball nine times for a 86 yards and a touchdown. On the defensive side of the ball, linebacker Cole Huntley

OTHER GRIDIRON ACTION

FRIDAY, SEPT. 22

n 7 p.m. Dr. Phillips vs. Boone

n 7 p.m. Foundation vs. Eustis

n 7 p.m. Horizon at New Smyrna Beach

n 7 p.m. Lake Buena Vista vs. Windermere

n 7 p.m. Ocoee vs. Freedom

n 7 p.m. TFA vs. Bronson

n 7 p.m. Windermere Prep vs. Legacy Charter

kids opportunities. … Because, one of the things that stuck out for me — and this is my 14th year coaching — when college coaches come in, they don’t want to just see film on a kid. They want to see film on a kid versus a quality opponent. … So, one of the main reasons why we make our schedule so difficult is to make sure that we are playing the best.”

With a 1-3 overall season record, the Warriors are entering week five of the 2023-24 season with the hopes of showing a strong front on the line of scrimmage.

“We are the underdogs,” Reilly said. “People don’t expect us to win these games, and we are going out there and we are just going to prove everyone wrong. It’s coming. Every day, we are getting better (to) drive the doubt out of people.”

had seven total tackles and one interception return of 96 yards for a touchdown. Defensive tackle Drew Flournoy had 13 tackles.

UP NEXT: The Lions will host Eustis Friday, Sept. 22.

The First Academy (3-1), 22 Pine Ridge (3-0), 28

HIGHLIGHTS: Despite a 28-22 loss against Pine Ridge High School Friday, Sept. 15, The First Academy football team continues to show prowess on its defensive skills by having 52 total tackles during the game — 36 solo tackles, 16 assisted tackles and 6.5 tackles-for-loss.

UP NEXT: The Royals will host Bronson Friday, Sept. 22.

Windermere Prep (0-3), 12 Crystal River (2-1), 22

UP NEXT: The Lakers will host Legacy Charter Friday, Sept. 22.

MONDAY, SEPT. 18 Horizon (3-1), 27

Poinciana (1-2), 28

UP NEXT: The Hawks will travel to New Smyrna Beach Friday, Sept. 22.

Lady Hawk sets school record

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1B

a really close-knit group of people, so we practice now in the summer and in the fall.”

Part of the success Whitesell has enjoyed on the track can be accredited to her commitment to being at every practice and to embrace her coach’s advice.

“Maryn is actually very responsible, very receptive,” head cross country coach Anthony Barnes said. “She is like a sponge when it comes to learning things, and she just continues to improve through leadership.”

One of the hardest skills for Whitesell to grasp was the negative split. Now that she mastered it, it feels natural.

“It’s running faster in the second

half of the race,” she said. “Just being able to increase your speed as you are going through the race instead of slowing down to a more comfortable pace. It’s mostly (thanks) to the workouts that we do. If you are given a workout where you do different repetitions of 800 meters or a mile, then each rep you try to slowly run faster. So, whenever you are in a race, it feels more natural to run faster in the end, when you are already tired.”

The team has a set schedule for training drills.

“We have basically a speed day when we do intervals, we have a day that we call an anaerobic threshold run — those days we do 2-mile repeats,” Barnes said. “We have two recovery days and usually a day for competition, and then we do one

day a week where it’s just mostly strides. But, if we don’t (have a competition day), then we do run at what you consider actual race pace, but we do very little of that.”

In addition to improving on her speed — and her breathing control — Whitesell is excited to continue seeing her improvements on the track, as well as her times.

“Physically, you know what your body can do,” she said. “You just have to push yourself and push through the pain and discomfort to get there, which can be a huge obstacle.”

Junior boys runner Girmay Buck also broke the school record with a time of 17:06.75 during the Hawks on the Hill Invitational Saturday, Sept. 9. The previous time was held by Connor Parrish with a 17:09.40.

The Windermere High School swim team defeated Windermere Prep during its first meet of the season Wednesday, Sept. 13. Both the girls and boys swim teams for the Wolverines earned wins against the Lakers with scores of 194107 and 189-114, respectively.

Windermere High bests Windermere Prep in swimming showdown

ANDREA MUJICA

SCHOOL BRIEFS

MEDICAL SCHOOL TO OPEN IN HORIZON WEST

The application process for students interested in attending the Orlando College of Osteopathic Medicine in Horizon West is now open.

The school, located at 7011 Kiran Patel Drive, Winter Garden, is expected to welcome its first class August 2024.

OCOM, which broke ground July 2022, announced its approval for the pre-accreditation process from the American Osteopathic Association’s Commission on Osteopathic College Accreditation Thursday, Sept. 14.

This approval allows the institution to start accepting applications and recruiting students to become part of the inaugural class of Florida’s newest medical school.

OCOM benefactor Dr. Kiran C. Patel said the school is going to change health care for the region for generations to come.

“With an innovative medical school curriculum meticulously crafted by our esteemed faculty, under the leadership of the dean and chief academic officer, Dr. Robert Hasty, our institution stands at the forefront of modern medical education,” Patel said.

To learn more, visit ocom.org/accreditation.

ORANGE SCHOOL BOARD ADOPTS 2023-24 BUDGET

The Orange County School Board on Sept. 12 approved the Orange County Public Schools budget for 2023-24.

The 2023-24 millage rate is 6.421, compared to 6.462 last year.

The budget for 2023-24 includes $2,723,984,930 for the General Fund, $325,285,696 for the Special Revenue Fund, $242,796,524 for the Debt Service Fund, $3,097,205,514 for the Capital Projects Fund and $359,479,829 for the Internal Service Fund.

COREY GILCHRIST THE FIRST ACADEMY

Corey Gilchrist is the director of auxiliary programs at The First Academy. She plans and oversees programs outside of the school day primarily for TFA’s preschool and Lower School students, including fine arts classes and lessons, enrichment programs, sports clinics and leagues, the after-school care program, and summer programming for all students on campus. Since she took over the auxiliary programming in 2021, TFA now has a competitive sports league for five Lower School sports, a full summer day camp and Little Academies programming for preschoolers. In one year, participation in after-school extracurricular activities grew from 126 student registrations to 982. Last year, TFA offered 53 programs compared to 12 the year before.

What brought you to your school?

I came to The First Academy in 2012 and immediately fell in love with the Christian emphasis, staff and campus. Every time I step on campus and hear the Christian music playing and see the Bible verses on the buildings, I’m reminded of what brought me to TFA initially.

What do you love most about your school?

My favorite thing about TFA is the people I work with. My team has amazing ideas and are often helping me brainstorm solutions with their creativity. We really complement (one another) well.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

The most rewarding part of my job is being able to bring ideas to fruition. I love hearing “I wish TFA had (insert idea)” and being able to make it happen for parents, students or teachers. It’s rewarding to see programs and participation grow alongside happy families.

What would you be if you weren’t in this profession? If I weren’t in this profession, I would be some type of events coordinator. I enjoy getting to know vendors and the companies they own and would like to help people bring their event vision to life.

Who influences you?

My mom is now my greatest influence. As a new mom myself, I am so grateful

REPORT CARD

POSITION: Director of auxiliary programs TIME AT SCHOOL: Nine years

for her work ethic, faith and values she instilled into my brother and (me). My mom inspires me to become more like her each day.

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

My favorite teacher was my first-grade teacher, Mrs. West. I remember she wore something gold and sparkly each day. She had a big personality and was always making us laugh.

What is your favorite children’s book and why?

Oh, this is a tough one. I have so many favorites. One of my favorite children’s books is “Giraffes Can’t Dance,” because of the message of being confident in who you are.

What do you like to do in your spare time? I enjoy spending time with my family, working out and traveling.

If you could dine with any famous person, past or present, who would it be and why?

If I could dine with any famous person, it would be Lucille Ball. I’ve been a huge “I Love Lucy” fan since I can remember. I’ve watched all 180 episodes and love Lucy’s spunky personality.

If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why? I would love to be able to time travel. I’d like to learn from family members I didn’t get a chance to meet, as well as see different periods of time that I’ve only heard about.

If you could only listen to three bands or artists, who would they be and why? They would be Maverick City Music, India Arie and The Temptations. I

enjoy a variety of music, and these three artists always put me in a good mood.

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

I loved Lunchables — especially the pizza and nacho ones. My favorite snacks were Nutty Bars and Star Crunch.

What is your favorite holiday and why?

My favorite holiday is Thanksgiving. I love how cooking and baking become all-day events while surrounded by family. It’s really not about the meal itself, but spending time with loved ones in the kitchen will always be a core memory that I hope to continue to pass on to my family.

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

My best friend in school was Stephanie. We played sports together, and she has a calm demeanor I appreciate. Although we live in different states now, we are still in touch. We talk weekly on the phone, and we try to see each other a few times a year. Last year, I was in her wedding, and a few weekends ago, she met my baby girl!

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

I was into music and sports. I played violin, clarinet and piano. My main sports were soccer, volleyball and track. I was first chair in clarinet, and our high school soccer team went to the state tournament.

ANNABELLE SIKES

B-I-N-G-O! Hamlin Elementary hosts night for grandparents

Hamlin Elementary School held its popular Grandparents Bingo Night Friday, Sept. 15. Families could buy dinner from several food trucks before heading into the cafeteria for a night of fun and games. Students had the chance to meet Hamlin’s mascot, Harley the Husky, and give him high-fives as he danced his way through the cafeteria.

— AMY QUESINBERRY

Hamlin Elementary teacher Andrea Stratchko; Susana Bilbao; Agustina Bilbao; Martha Guevara; Harley the Husky; Dr. Angela MurphyOsborne, Hamlin principal; Shirley Cowans, former area superintendent for the West Learning Community of Orange County Public Schools; and teacher Allison Olszewski enjoyed Grandparents Bingo Night.

Right: Lon Hazelwood received help from his granddaughters, Zariah and Esmerelda Ransome, selecting the bingo cards for the night.

Their grandmother, Sylvia Hazelwood, also played games with the girls.

Caroline Hyde was excited to play bingo with her grandparents, Jim and Karen Reitz.

Making it a family affair were Grayson Woodby, Reedus Musial, Cohen Swick, Brooke Musial, Liam Woodby, Maggie and Bill Musial, Brian and Keli Zwick, and Kinslee Zwick.

Feng Xiao, Eric Huang, Ting Zhang and Arianna Huang were ready for a night of bingo playing.

Windermere principal returns to childhood school

Life has come full circle for Janet Bittick, who is leading Windermere Elementary School, where she and her children attended.

AMY QUESINBERRY COMMUNITY EDITOR

Janet Zweifel Bittick was a student at Windermere Elementary School in the 1970s, she spent a semester there as a teaching intern in the spring of 1988, and she was a Mustang parent when her two children attended Windermere from 2011 to 2015.

And now she has returned to the school — this time as principal.

“I definitely feel like I won the lottery,” Bittick said. “I’ve been at some great schools, and it’s just great to come back here. This is my community.”

She walked into her new school Aug. 3, the same day as the teachers.

“We were having their ‘welcome back,’ and it was my welcome back, too,” she said.

Bittick is ready to start a series of roundtable forums in which she asks four simple questions, she said: “What do you love about the school? What is something you would change? Are there things you like but want me to rethink them? And, in general, what are things we don’t have that you’d like to see our school move toward?”

She already has held a discussion with her WES team leaders. Next, she wants to meet with teachers, followed by a meeting with parents and then the school’s Student Council members.

She acknowledged Windermere Elementary’s position as a cuttingedge school, and her plan is to keep growing — whether it’s with technology or “whatever is out there that’s the next thing that would be enticing for our children to learn and safe for children,” Bittick said.

“Windermere is always on that cutting edge, and we have such a great Mustang Fund, a great PTO — the school doesn’t want for a lot, and we’re fortunate for that,” she said.

Dr. Diana Greer served as principal prior to Bittick’s arrival.

“She was an icon here; I’m filling big shoes,” Bittick said. “She was an amazing woman, and I … want to continue her amazing legacy and the

traditions she started and keep that going forward.”

Bittick is a 1988 graduate of West Orange High School and earned her education degree from the University of Central Florida. She lives in Keene’s Pointe, purposely buying a home in that neighborhood so her son and daughter could attend Windermere Elementary.

This is the seventh principal’s assignment for Bittick. She led three schools in Orange County, California, and has served at four elementary schools in Orange County, Florida: four years at West Creek, four years at Sunset Park, two-and-one-half years at Eccleston and now Windermere.

She spent two years as director of professional leadership and learning for Marion County Public Schools,

and while she loved the job, she missed being with students. So she returned “home” to Orange County Public Schools.

During Windermere Elementary’s Meet Your Teacher event at the beginning of this school year, a mom walked up to Bittick and recognized her as her first-grade teacher at Frangus Elementary.

“Her children enjoyed me telling stories about her,” Bittick said. “It’s so great running into all these people. I walked into one of the kindergarten classes — and it was my old kindergarten class.”

Two thoughts keep Bittick grounded in her mission to be a success principal leading a successful school.

“One is ‘keep the main thing the main thing,’ and that’s the kids; it’s

putting the kids first,” she said. “(The other is) ‘It’s about kids.’ Is this going to help kids? Everything comes back to what’s best for the kids.”

Bittick considers herself blessed to be serving the Windermere school and community. She praised the students for their manners, good behavior and excellent test scores, and said the parents have been helpful in getting her reacquainted with the school. She said she is grateful for her phenomenal staff, including her new

assistant principal, Dr. Sharon Williams.

“We’re both veterans in OCPS but both new at the same time at Windermere Elementary,” Bittick said.

“I come to work every day and realize how good I have it,” Bittick said. “I will continue to work hard to continue the legacy. I was part of that legacy … I have some ownership because it’s my school.

“I couldn’t ask for a better school,” she said.

Amy Quesinberry

Janet Bittick is the new principal for the Windermere Elementary Mustangs.

Right: Janet Bittick, center, graduated from the University of Central Florida with two of her friends, Kim Campbell and Amy Hiers Bell. Campbell is a teacher at Windermere Elementary.

Courtesy photo

Janet Bittick’s kindergarten photo was taken when she was a student at Windermere Elementary.

Courtesy photo

Westly’s Mile kicks off second year

to inspire her about the organization’s mission.

WANT MORE?

To learn more about living a healthy lifestyle in West Orange County, visit healthywestorange.org.

healthy habits.

Westly’s Mile — a collaboration among The Foundation for a Healthier West Orange, Healthy West Orange and the American Heart Association — is off to a running start.

After a successful inaugural in 2022, the program has more than doubled in size and celebrated its second year at a kick-off event Wednesday, Sept. 13, at Independence Elementary School.

The walk/run club is designed to give elementary students in West Orange County a foundation of

Last year, the program started in five schools and has since expanded to 11 schools in the West Orange and Southwest Orange areas. These include Panther Lake, Frangus, Independence, Castleview, Pine Hills, Citrus, Maxey, Ocoee, SunRidge, Tildenville and Tangelo Park elementary schools.

In its inaugural year, 400 students logged nearly 7,000 combined miles. With more than 1,000 students participating this year, they’ll likely leave that record in the dust.

Lesa Boettcher, COO at the Foundation for a Healthier West Orange, said the children are what continue

“Seeing their excitement, seeing their accomplishments and seeing what each kid gets out of this experience is different,” she said. “It could be emotional, or it could help with social integration. It’s not a competition. It’s a safe place that hopefully builds their healthy habits forever.”

Evan Petrarca, physical education teacher at Independence, is helping to lead the program on the ground.

“I thought the program was a great idea,” he said. “We have kids who sit outside and wait for the doors to open before school, and there’s not always someone there keeping an eye on them. I thought it was a great way to get their energy up in the morning and start the day off on a positive note. Here, I can keep them safe and get them active

— especially before it gets too hot later in the day.”

Heather Maloney, executive director at AHA, said the goal is to be in 29 schools by year five, eventually integrating into every elementary school in the area.

Being a parent of a child at one of the schools, Maloney understands the benefits derived from the program.

“I know the benefits for them while they are exercising are exponential,” she said. “They are sleeping better, eating better, focusing more. We want to inspire them to start exercising and develop it into their lifestyles at a young age so it remains an important part of their routine as they get older.”

Kenneth Chappel Bruce, 73, of Ocoee, Florida, went peacefully to his final resting place on Sept. 12, 2023, surrounded by family and friends. He was born on Feb. 1, 1950, to Loette and Jesse Bruce.

Kenny (aka Papa), the most loving, generous devoted Father, Grandfather, Brother and Uncle, is survived by his daughters, Chastity Hooks and husband (Andy), and Ashley Hurst; son, Jason Bruce and wife (Jennifer); and nine grandchildren, Wyatt, Kole, Casey, Zachary, Dakota, Storm, Sydney, Patrick and Jackson.

Kenny worked for the city of Ocoee for 28 years obtaining the position of Project Coordinator before retiring in 2012. He loved working for the city of Ocoee, and his co-workers were considered family.

He had a sarcastic wit, humor and love for his family. He was always making jokes to make everyone laugh. He loved to be on the lake fishing with his brother, Eddie. He enjoyed fishing and bowling. He was an amazing bowler and loved the competition of bowling in his league. Everyone who knew him would say he was a good, loyal man and a friend you could count on. He will be truly missed by all.

His Celebration of Life will be from 1 to 3 p.m. Sept. 24 at the Withers-Maguire House, 16 E. Oakland Ave., Ocoee FL 34761.

Kenneth’s arrangements are in the caring guidance of Winter Oak Funeral Home, 1132 E. Plant St., Winter Garden, FL 34787.

ANNABELLE SIKES

NEWS EDITOR

Westly’s Mile is a walk/run club designed to give elementary students in West Orange County a foundation of healthy habits.

Independence Elementary School is starting its first year as part of the program.

Annabelle Sikes

BAPTIST

First Baptist Church

Pastor Tim Grosshans 125 E. Plant St, Winter Garden (407) 656-2352

Sundays: 8:30 AM Traditional 9:45 AM Bible Study 11 AM Contemporary Wednesdays: 6 PM Awana

EPISCOPAL Church of the Messiah

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

METHODIST

First United Methodist www.fumcwg.org

CHURCH DIRECTORY

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

CHURCH OF GOD

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

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

Adult Sunday School

Worship www.windermereunion.org