The city of Winter Garden approved a variance to permit the height of a fence at a property located off South Lakeview Avenue.
SEE PAGE 2A.
YOUR TOWN
EXPLORE NATURE AT ONP FESTIVAL
The Oakland Nature Preserve is hosting its third annual Nature Fest from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 21, at the preserve, 747 Machete Trail, Oakland.
Meet ONP’s animal ambassadors, learn the history of Lake Apopka and about the cleanup efforts being made, take a boat ride on the lake or a guided hike on the grounds, visit with the nature preserve’s community partners, and connect with nature. Vendors will include those related to nature and natureinspired art, as well as environmental organizations and food trucks.
NEHRLING
TO HOST FALL PLANT SALE
Nehrling Gardens is holding its fall plant sale from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Sept. 21. A wide variety of native and tropical plants are available for fall gardens. All sales help fund the restoration and maintenance of the historic Nehrling Gardens, located at 2267 Hempel Ave., in Gotha.
Stoneybrook West Golf Club hosts first West Orange Invitational. 1B.
Board to DEATH
The First Academy’s Upper School Theatre Department presented its fall production, ‘Not a Clue.’ Written specifically for the TFA troupe, the play takes inspiration from the cult classic, ‘Clue.’ STORY ON PAGE 4A.
West Oaks Farmers Market sprouts in Ocoee
The new market will be set up from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays at the West Oaks Mall in Ocoee. SEE PAGE 7A
GAME OF THE WEEK
The West Orange High Warriors’ team-first culture is embedded into their DNA. PAGE 1B.
Dr. Phillips High School and the town of Windermere hosted 9/11 ceremonies. 3B.
Matt Santana, left, portrayed Mulberry, while Wilson Blair played the jock Captain Dan D. Lion.
“Not a Clue” was chock full of hilarious moments and fourth-wall-breaking antics.
Top: Amelia Kourie, as Snow, had the audiences in stitches.
Mia Brian portrayed Turquoise, a selfproclaimed Christian whose knowledge of the Bible was suspect at best.
Photos by Michael Eng
City commission OKs 4-foot fence
The Winter Garden City Commission on Sept. 12 approved a variance to permit a 4-foot fence height at a property located at 530 S. Lakeview Ave.
The decision reverses a decision made previously by the Planning and Zoning Board.
At the meeting, applicants Daniel and Krista Meloon requested to appeal the P&Z board’s Aug. 5 decision, where the board denied the request of a 4-foot-tall fence in the front yard along the front property line, as well as a 4-foot-tall fence along the front side yards of the property in lieu of the permitted 3-foottall fence at the property.
“We would just appreciate the approval,” Krista Meloon said. “There are several other homes that have the same exact fence that we installed.”
“I would like to point out that we’re not asking for anything that doesn’t already exist,” Daniel Meloon added.
of the property and concluded the use is out of character with other properties in the same zoning category. The board denied the variance based on these grounds.
According to the city code, any person aggrieved by a decision of the P&Z board may file a notice of appeal to the City Commission within 15 days. The commission then shall conduct a hearing, hear testimony of witnesses and other evidence offered, and vote to reverse, modify or affirm a decision of the board.
“In my opinion, it’s a fence, and if there’s precedent in the area, even on the street, it just doesn’t seem right,”
Commissioner Lisa Bennett said.
Commissioner Iliana R. Jones agreed and said she does not see the fence as taking away from the character of the area.
Commissioner Colin Sharman suggested delaying the decision to give the commission more time to think about the request.
IN OTHER NEWS
n The Winter Garden City Commission approved the first reading of four ordinances relating to the proposed budget and millage rate for Fiscal Year 2024-25.
n The city approved the first reading of two separate sets of three ordinances pertaining to annexation, amending the Future Land Use Map and rezoning of two properties: a .35-acre property located at 1245 N. West Crown Point Road and a .69-acre property located at 10 Broad St. Planning Director Kelly Carson said the annexations will provide a more efficient delivery of services to the properties and further the goals and objectives of the city’s comprehensive plan to eliminate enclaves.
n The commission approved the first reading of two ordinances amending the FLUM and changing the zoning designation of a .15-acre property located at 34 W. Story Road. Annexation will provide the same benefits as cited by Carson above.
n Winter Garden approved an interlocal agreement for fire dispatch services for an additional five years with Orange County. The previous agreement was set to expire Sept. 30, 2024.
n The City Commission approved the final plat for the 5.48-acre property located at 16123 Marsh Road for the Avalon Retail Center. The applicant was requesting approval of the final plat to create three commercial lots, as well as provide common area tracts and all associated easements.
n Commissioners approved three upcoming special events: National Night Out Oct. 1, the West Orange High School Homecoming Parade Oct. 17 and the annual Oktoberfest celebration by Crooked Can Brewing Company Oct. 18, 19 and 20.
The City Commission also approved authorizing City Manager Jon C. Williams to execute a grant agreement with Central Florida Hope Center Inc., located at 1010 S. Dillard St., Winter Garden, in an amount not to exceed $100,000.
Economic Development Director Marc Hutchinson said the one-year grant agreement will help expand the delivery of economic opportunities for the underserved and undereducated individuals and families exclusively in Winter Garden.
Tim Grosshans, president of the Central Florida Hope Center, said the public charity showcases the efforts of the local churches coming together to meet the needs of residents who are in dire need of services.
The Hope Center’s Life Solutions project is designed to enhance the economic prosperity of qualified residents to include expanded case management services with the hire of a dedicated case manager, who will create a customized action plan for residents providing them with essential life skills training, time management skills, workplace communication skills, hygiene, interview preparation and other enabling workforce tools.
According to a staff report, the P&Z board found the fence height does not allow a reasonable use
“I, personally, don’t have an issue with a 4-foot fence; I think it’s welcoming,” he said. “However, overriding a board vote without doing our due diligence gives me odds.”
The item was approved 4-1, with Sharman dissenting. City staff also recommended the approval.
n Commissioners approved and ratified the proposed Police Benevolent Association Police Officer Collective Bargaining Agreement and the Police Benevolent Association Police Sergeant Collective Bargaining Agreement for the period of Oct. 1, 2024, to Sept. 30, 2027.
n During City Manager Jon C. Williams comments, he brought up a complaint filed by former Commissioner Ron Mueller with the Florida Elections Commission against Mayor John Rees regarding comments made at the March 14 meeting alleging violations of the Florida elections laws. Williams said the matter has been disposed of in favor of the mayor. The city then approved reimbursing Rees for legal fees incurred during the process.
Residents also will get connected to additional community resources to further expand their workforce development, housing assistance needs and access food security programs. Success of the Life Solutions project will be measured by job-referral rates, job-placement rates and jobretention rates.
We remember
Residents throughout West Orange and Southwest Orange took moments out of their day Sept. 11, 2024, to remember, memorialize and celebrate the heroes and lives of those lost during the 9/11 attacks 23 years ago.
At Dr. Phillips High School, members of the school’s Air Force JROTC program, along with students, faculty, community members and Orange County first responders, gathered for the JROTC’s annual 9/11 memorial event. Orange County Undersheriff Mark J. Canty spoke to those in attendance about the importance of remembering and memorializing the events of that tragic day.
Later that day, in downtown Windermere, the town hosted its annual 9/11 memorial service on the back porch of its Town Hall. The service featured performances of patriotic songs from a local choir led by Family Church Worship Arts Pastor Mark Goff, the playing of taps and the laying of flowers at the town’s 9/11 memorial monument.
Orange County Fire Rescue, which services the town of Oakland, increased its rates, so the town was forced to rethink its budget for Fiscal Year 2024-25.
AMY QUESINBERRY COMMUNITY EDITOR
The Oakland Town Commission discussed several options at its Sept. 9 budget hearing before deciding on a higher millage rate to offset the increase in fire taxes approved by Orange County Fire Rescue. The county is contracted to provide fire and rescue services to Oakland and three other Central Florida municipalities.
In June, the commission had proposed a tentative balanced budget of $9,149,168 with no increase to the town’s millage rate of 6.3 for Fiscal Year 2024-25. On July 12, Oakland received a letter from OCFR notifying the town it was increasing the millage to its Municipal Service Taxing Unit rate from 2.2 to 2.8, which raised its fee by $521,497. The new MSTU rate for FY24-25 is $2,065,081.
Town staff looked for ways to cut the budget without sacrificing services to residents, and July 23, the commission approved a tentative millage rate of 6.9 to offset the proposed county increase.
In earlier meetings between Oakland and Orange County, the town requested to be charged solely on volume and requested a one-year deferral with no payment difference. Oakland Finance Director Gaby Leon said both requests were denied.
The county offered two options at the 6.9 millage rate: to pay in full, or to defer it for the first year and pay it back in three years.
Leon explained several other options to the commission: Drop the millage rate to 6.3, as originally proposed in early summer, which would leave no money in the town’s reserves; choose the payment plan and set the town’s millage rate at 6.6, which wouldn’t leave much money in reserves; or keep the new proposed millage rate at 6.9 and pay in full, which would allow the town to retain more in reserves.
Mayor Shane Taylor suggested adopting a millage rate of 6.7, which would increase by $105 annually the tax bill for a home worth $300,000.
“There seems to be some sort of sweet spot at pulling $125,000 out of the reserves and then paying Orange County in full that would still give us money left over in the town to use for who-knows-what could happen,” Taylor said.
Taylor added the town only will “take a hit” in the first year. The tax bill for developers will help offset the cost.
“When we get caught up, we will stay at that level for a few years,” Commissioner Sal Ramos said. “There’s also commercial coming up. … In the next three to five years, we will start to do what we did 10 to 12 years ago (dropping the millage rate). … We will be back at 6.3 eventually.”
In a memo to the commission, Leon shared budget changes:
n The updated budget reflects a savings of about $54,000 to employee health insurance because the town switched from United Healthcare
to Florida Blue. The updated budget reflects a 3% increase to general liability insurance and workers compensation insurance. The updated budget includes an increase to attorney fees and to auditing fees due to recent resignations by both firms.
n The General Fund budget still includes 4% cost-of-living adjustment for all employees and includes a 2% increase to retirement contribution for sworn officers to be competitive with other agencies. A compensation study is also included in the budget to assist with employee turnover and compression.
n The Enterprise budget still includes a 4% COLA for employees. The updated Enterprise budget shows an increase to solid waste due to a change in providers.
n The Impact Fee budget now reflects an increase of $100,000 to Transportation Impact Fees for Catherine Ross Road and an increase of $50,000 to Wastewater Impact Fees for Onsite Sewage Treatment and Disposal System Remediation Plan. There was also a decrease of $169,000 to Water Impact Fees for the alternative water supply project.
The commission approved unanimously a tentative General Fund budget of $9,797,759 and a tentative millage rate of 6.7, and set the final public hearing for 6 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 24.
TREE AGREEMENT
At the regular Town Commission meeting following the budget hearing, the elected officials approved a tree replacement agreement with the Southern Oaks Homeowners Association.
Earlier this year, the town contracted a licensed dredging company to remove sediment from Lake Apopka and place it in a fill area. A portion of the fill area was on private property under the ownership of the Southern Oaks HOA, which maintains the sediment could potentially cause harm to trees in the designated area.
Town Manager Andy Stewart said the town obtained soil samples, a survey and an arborist tree report.
The agreement requires the town to maintain and replace any trees that fall or die prior to May 13, 2029, within the fill area.
MORE PARKING IN TOWN?
Town events are growing in popularity, but with that comes the need for more parking for attendees, Taylor said.
Stewart was given approval to conduct a public parking and traffic study as the town continues to look for more parking options. At the same time, the town and Oakland Avenue Charter School have been looking for ways to reduce traffic on Oakland Avenue during school drop-off and pick-up.
The study will look at open space on the southwest corner of the school property that could tackle both issues.
Ben Ptashinsky-Skinner and his daughter, Charlotte, took a moment following the memorial service to read Windermere’s 9/11 memorial monument.
A moment of silence, followed by the playing of taps, was held at the Dr. Phillips High School memorial event .
Members of the Dr. Phillips High School Air Force JROTC program stood at attention during the program’s annual 9/11 memorial event.
Orange County Undersheriff Mark J. Canty spoke to the crowd of students and others in attendance at the 9/11 memorial event at Dr. Phillips High School.
Members of the Orange County Sheriff’s Office Honor Guard attended the Dr. Phillips High School memorial event.
All fun and games
The First Academy’s Upper School Theatre Department presented its fall production,
“Not a Clue,” Sept. 12, 13 and 14 at the school’s Black Box Theatre.
The hourlong show, written by local playwright Katie Thayer, was specifically crafted for TFA and pays homage to the classic “Clue” film. The show also was completely student driven and led by 17-year-old student director Tori Smith.
“The board game ‘Clue’ and all the properties surrounding ‘Clue’ are beloved property, and the hijinks fit with the direction we wanted to go with bringing on a student director,” Upper School Theatre Director Jason Porrata said. “We wanted a show that would have a lot of fun and be something our students could get excited about. We commissioned a new work that’s based on the board game and inspired by the various plays and movies revolving around it. It just fits really well with the wants and needs of all of our students. … We’ve tried to hand more and more things off to the students so that they can learn, grow and take ownership of the space and the arts. Tori has been an excellent example of leadership and taking those things to heart. It’s been really cool to see the students take the forefront of things and take on the responsibilities.”
WHODUNIT?
Smith was bitten by the “theater bug” when she was only 4 years old.
Although her whole family is involved in theater, when it comes to directing, she took inspiration from her mother.
“My mom worked at a public school and directed theater there for a while,” she said. “She also directed some of the things I would do growing up. I would get to watch her work through the process, and I found it to be fascinating. She and I have always loved breaking down theatrical productions and looking at all of the different aspects from the set to the lighting and movement on stage.”
Last spring, Smith reached out to Porrata about the possibility of assistant directing the spring musical, which she said she learned a lot from and was a wonderful experience. This time, when the fall play came along, Porrata reached out to Smith to direct.
“I was ecstatic,” Smith said. “I love leading, and I love the arts so much. It’s just been incredible to watch everything come together. It means so much that Mr. P. put his faith in us. All the small pieces really bring this large picture that we’ve all worked to create to life.” Smith said the production of “Not a Clue” is unique.
“It was fun to take the movie and take Jumanji and kind of create this new monster of a show,” Smith said. “There’s also some other shout-outs and references to other board games along the way. It’s really different from anything I think anyone has seen before. There’s lots of levels to
explore, and I think people are really blown away by it.”
Smith’s favorite part about putting the show together was “all of it.”
“Our theater program is pretty small, so we’re all pretty close,” she said. “It’s been awesome to build our relationships in new ways, because they’re some of my best friends, but in this situation I had to be more of an authority figure. They’ve shown me so much respect, patience and love throughout the whole process.”
She said the biggest challenge was managing all the different pieces of the puzzle and figuring out how to make them fit the best way possible.
“If you’ve been around Orlando, you know we’re in a strong theatrical community,” Porrata said.
“We go and see shows at many other schools, but for me what’s most inspiring when it comes to our experiences here is seeing the way the students take the lead. This show has sort of been, in some ways, a culmination of years of work with that. There’s been failings, challenges, frustrations and lots of learning from both the students and myself. That’s the power of theater. I could do all of this for them, but
them doing it themselves is so much more impactful.
“As a Christian school, we believe the value of the arts is so much more than just being pretty; we think it reflects something beautiful about a God that’s beautiful,” he said. “So, even in a silly, dumb show like this, the beauty of it is that when we laugh we are created by a God who laughs and loves silliness and loves to see us smile. Our hope for our audiences and our students is that as they come to our shows they recognize a God who makes beautiful things and loves them very much.”
Smith said the show isn’t necessarily an inspiring piece of work with lessons to be learned, but it is for people to have a good time.
“In a world where we move so fast and we need screens to do everything for us and we need to have multiple things going on at one time, theater is a moment where you just sit back and you watch and let yourself be enraptured by this beautiful art,” she said. “It’s an outlet for the performers and the audience. It’s a moment to step away and appreciate things in a new light. I just wanted everyone to leave with a smile on their face.”
“If
CAST LIST
Aliya Asfour: MisRead
Wilson Blair: Captain Dan D.
Lion
Mia Brian: Turquoise
Brogan Gentry: Jake Cook, understudy Wendall Butler, understudy Captain Dan D. Lion, understudy Mulberry
Marketing and Sales Associate / Zari Gotay, zari@OrangeObserver.com
CONTACT US
and achievements.
To contact us, email to Michael Eng, meng@OrangeObserver.com.
The West Orange Times meets the legal requirements to
WEST ORANGE TIMES
Lauren Jackson, far right, aka Emma Corpse, was the first character to meet an untimely end.
Student director Tori Smith welcomed the audience to TFA’s production of “Not a Clue.”
Danielle Whipple played the part of Abigail Butler.
Photos by Michael Eng
Austin Williams portrayed Wendell Butler.
Aliya Asfour portrayed MisRead, an aspiring TikTok influencer.
Ava Walden’s character Cavity Sam didn’t last long before she was offed.
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
Wolverines show true character in stadium snafu
t was supposed to be a moment seven-plus years in the making. All the fighting, all the pleas, all the speeches had been made. Windermere High finally had its on-campus stadium.
For months, Wolverine Nation watched in anticipation as the practice field began morphing into its true home turf. Stands were added. Walls were erected for the concession stand and restrooms.
date and opponent and the words “Inaugural Home Kickoff” and “Welcome Home, Wolverines” emblazoned on the side.
But alas, leave it to an unsigned piece of a paper and a strip of metaphorical red tape to derail all of it.
Lesser schools might have folded under these circumstances. But for these battle-tested and unbelievably resilient high-schoolers, they didn’t merely persevere. Rather, they drenched Sept. 13 with the sweetest lemonade you’ve ever tasted.
Without blinking, Wolverine Nation packed up its navy and lime, hauled it 11-and-one-half miles north to gracious host Ocoee High and re-themed the party to “Under Construction.”
The cheerleaders and fans donned hard hats and neon vests. The football team entered the field by tearing through a “Caution Victor-E Zone” banner decorated with caution tape, a hammer and a wrench. And that customized football? The Wolverines just scratched out “Welcome Home, Wolverines” to make it “Welcome to Ocoee, Wolverines.”
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
The date was set: Friday, Sept. 13. The opponent: University. This was the moment. It was all systems go. Then, two days before kickoff, it all fell apart.
In hindsight, planning for the opening of the “Wolverine-a” (as some have dubbed it) on a Friday the 13th might not have been the best idea. In perhaps a fitting twist on this years-long saga, Orange County Public Schools’ own Building Code Compliance Office did not issue the certificate of occupancy for the stadium.
“The concession stand and announcers booth still need to be completed and inspected before a certificate of occupancy is issued,” OCPS Media Relations Administrator Michael Ollendorff said.
However, in the days leading up to Sept. 13, it seems Windermere High was well aware the concession stand wasn’t going to be operational and planned to have concessions available under tents to compensate. A line of portable toilets stood at the ready to accommodate those needs, as well.
And oh yeah, Windermere destroyed University, 57-7, to remain undefeated this season.
“Thank you to everyone who helped us pivot so quickly to a neutral site,” school officials wrote on Facebook.
“And thank you to Ocoee High School who opened (its) doors to us so we could stay on the west side of town. From the concession stand to the field, they were amazing hosts, and we’ll forever be in their debt. ... We’re just thankful we had a place to play tonight.”
CHURCH DIRECTORY
Advertise your Services or Events on this page weekly. This page appears weekly in the West Orange Times & Observer and online at OrangeObserver.com. To advertise in the Church Directory call 407-656-2121 or email AdvertiseNow@OrangeObserver.com
Sure, it wasn’t the night we all wanted. But the challenges of it all did allow Windermere students to show us once again their amazing resolve and ability to make the most out of disappointing circumstances.
The Wolverines even had a commemorative football made with the
On behalf of the entire West Orange community: You have made us proud. And at some point soon, you will, indeed, celebrate the opening of your beautiful new stadium. And we all will be there to savor the moment with you.
New market takes root at West Oaks Mall
NEWS EDITOR
A new farmers market in the city of Ocoee will benefit West Orange County residents, the West Oaks Mall and local vendors.
The West Oaks Farmers Market, created by Gregory McLeod, officially launched Friday, Sept. 13.
The market will be set up from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Fridays on the side of the mall closest to JCPenney and Saturdays on the side of the mall closest to Dillard’s.
The market offers 100% local produce, as well as a selection of sweet treats, home decor and accessories, candles, books, wreaths, clothing, and more.
“I pretty much grew up in the Pine Hills area and would frequent the West Oaks Mall as a kid/teenager,” McLeod said. “So, it holds many memories and is almost nostalgic when I go there now. … I first thought about the idea while at work. I try to go to farmers markets myself as much as I can, but living in Florida the weather permits most of our outdoor events. This gave me the idea to have an indoor farmers market. That way, we could operate rain or shine. I did some research and contacted the general manager of the West Oaks Mall with a proposal, and she loved it. So, here we are!”
A FRESH START
McLeod has been to many local markets in the past and loved the energy and good vibes he got every time he went.
“I thought this would be a perfect spot,” he said of the Ocoee mall. “Also, I think this is the perfect way to help some of the small businesses in the area reach more customers. The idea came out of nowhere, actually. It almost slapped me in the face when I was thinking of where we
GET INVOLVED
could open an indoor farmers market. Then, I remembered, like most malls, the West Oaks Mall is almost always empty and unused.”
The market is starting off with about 10 vendors, which include Dipped by Ade, Get Just Desserts, The Flour Den, Stacey’s Crafts, Julia Norvella Creations, Flip & Sip, Hope Designs, Lola’s Artesanias and JAC Designz.
Local participating vendor Christy Lowery-Qualls, of Get Just Desserts, heard about the market on Facebook.
“I’m known as the local cake person, and everyone’s always asking me if I’m doing any events or selling my product, so I thought it would be a great opportunity,” she said. “I made other desserts in addition to cakes for the market, and I love that its local and its helping the community. I think it’s going to help everyone involved. We really need something to help bring people back to this mall. My hope is that this brings a stronger sense of community back to Ocoee.”
The market also will feature live music from local artists, including Jordan Mohr, a local country singer and songwriter, who performed Saturday, Sept. 14.
In the future, McLeod hopes to expand the market to include about 20 to 25 vendors.
He wants to spread the word about the market and encourage more small businesses to get involved.
“I am most excited about seeing everyone gathered inside the mall and giving one of my favorite places to visit as an adolescent a new breath of life,” he said. “I just can’t wait to see what comes next.”
For more information on the new West Oaks Farmers Market, contact McLeod at westoaksfarmers@gmail. com.
If you have something special you want to bring to the new farmers market, email Gregory McLeod at westoaksfarmers@gmail.com.
ANNABELLE SIKES
Moya Franceshi, left, came to support her fiance, Gregory McLeod, the creator behind the new farmers market.
Maria Serna represented Lola’s Artesanias at the West Oaks Farmers Market.
Photos by Annabelle Sikes
Stacey Peterson, left, and Patty Kaufman ran the Stacey’s Crafts table together.
Windermere youth reactivate WAY Committee
Olympia High sophomores Anna and Maija Andert are working to reactivate the Windermere Active Youth Committee with a new mission and vision.
IN OTHER NEWS
n Mayor Jim O’Brien presented Parks & Recreation committee member Tracy Mitchell with a plaque of recognition for more than 20 years of service on the committee.
n The Windermere Town Council approved a resolution adopting emergency and disaster readiness procedures. To ensure eligibility for Federal Emergency Management Agency reimbursements, the town is required to adopt a disaster readiness assessment and policy, as mandated by the Florida Recovery Obligation Calculation protocol. The purpose of the policy is to establish guidelines for the responsibilities and compensation of town employees before, during and after a declared state of emergency and/or when normal town operations are otherwise suspended.
n Council members approved awarding Cathcart Construction a bid in the amount of $5,538,687 for West Second Avenue roadway drainage and water utility improvements.
n The council approved the final Windermere Vision Zero report.
n The town approved a revision of language in the interlocal agreement for police dispatch services.
ANNABELLE SIKES NEWS EDITOR
Two Olympia High School students are bringing the Windermere Active Youth Committee back to the town of Windermere.
Sisters Anna and Maija Andert, both sophomores at the school, are working to reactivate the special committee with a new mission and vision: To have a positive impact on the town through encouraging volunteerism and civic responsibility, advocating for the community, and building meaningful relationships among generations.
“The Windermere Active Youth Committee is dedicated to promoting involvement among generations of Windermere residents and educating the youth on local government,” the pair explained at the Sept. 10 Windermere Town Council meeting. “Through volunteerism and civic responsibility, the WAY Committee members hope to improve not only our relationship with the community but also with our environment.
The Windermere Active Youth Committee will create volunteer opportunities for members and students of surrounding high schools. The creation of this committee will unite residents through accomplished goals and community betterment.”
THE NEXT GENERATION
The WAY Committee was established by local high school students several years ago and aimed to foster community engagement, educate youth about local governance and bridge the intergenerational gap.
However, the committee’s activities had to be suspended because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Town Manager Robert Smith said he is pleased to announce the committee’s reactivation in the town of Windermere.
“This revitalization presents opportunities for renewed civic participation, knowledge sharing, and meaningful connections between
younger and older community members,” he said.
Maija Andert said the pair got the idea to reactive the committee the summer before their freshman year but ended up getting busy with starting high school.
“We wanted to start this committee up again because our mom was the liaison when the WAY Committee first started, and we would tag along to the meetings in elementary school,” she said. “I always looked up to the high-schoolers and hoped to be a part of it myself.”
“I vividly remember watching Grace Foglia talk to the council for the first time about creating the committee and seeing all the ‘big kids’ who were going to sign up and just being in awe that they could do such a big thing,” Anna Andert added. “Ever since then, I’ve wanted to do the same. So, when the option to reactivate the committee presented itself, I just knew I couldn’t say no.”
The WAY Committee will comprise 10 to 12 voting members who would be Windermere residents, as well as an unlimited number of non-voting members who will be required to live in the 34786 area code. All members will be current high school students.
The sisters plan to recruit members through announcements from the town, advertisements with local publications, contact with high-school service and civic clubs, and speaking with friends and parents of potential members.
Meeting dates and times, as well as bylaws regarding topics such as attendance requirements, will be voted on by the committee members.
Committee activities will include government and civic education, such as a tour of the police department and town facilities, meetings with town staff, attending Town Council meetings, and learning about the Florida Sunshine Law; producing a signature event designed by the committee; and volunteering for other town committees, events and activities.
Initial funding for the committee is
to be determined in coordination with town staff and will need to be approved by the Town Council. The funding will help cover the cost of T-shirts for the committee members to be worn at events and meetings, advertisements for events, and staffing and supplies needed for hosted events.
An initial meeting for the committee is planned for Oct. 30, and the meeting will cover topics including introductions, bylaws, scheduling, composing a mission statement and selecting officers.
“We believe that we would show our community that our generation cares about our town and our government just as much as older ones,” Anna Andert said. “We want to show that you’re never too young for civic responsibility. Our ultimate goal is to improve youth representation in our town and its government and have the committee grow bigger than what we imagine today.”
Council Member Mandy David will serve as the liaison for the WAY Committee.
WANT TO JOIN?
Those interested in joining, helping or connecting with the Windermere Active Youth Committee can contact Executive Assistant Brianna Wilson at bwilson@ town.windermere.fl.us. She will help relay information to the committee’s leaders.
The sisters said they are both thrilled to be able to reactive the club and recognize the people who have helped out along the way, including their mother Liz Andert and Smith.
“This committee will help get the youth involved with town events and bring our generations closer,” Maija Andert said. “My ultimate goal for this committee is to educate our generation and sink the roots of this committee into the town and hopefully have it last for a long time — even after we graduate. I hope that future years of the committee and youth will expand our goals and even bring an idea on behalf of our town to the state.”
Annabelle Sikes
Sisters Anna, left, and Maija Andert are bringing the WAY Committee back to Windermere.
Golden Oak estate
for $5.05M
Ahome in the Golden Oak community at Disney topped all West Orange-area residential real-estate transactions from Sept. 2 to 8.
The home at 10074 Symphony Grove Drive, Golden Oak, sold Sept. 4, for $5,050,000. Built in 2020, it has four bedrooms, fourand-one-half baths and 3,208 square feet. Days on market: 49. The sellers were represented by Gregory Foxx, Golden Oak Realty.
DR. PHILLIPS
BELLA NOTTE AT VIZCAYA
The townhouse at 8757 Via Vella Notte, Orlando, sold Sept. 6, for $622,000. Built in 2003, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,363 square feet. Days on market: Two.
GOTHA BRAEMAR
The home at 2041 Lake Fischer Cove Lane, Gotha, sold Sept. 4, for $1,635,000. Built in 2014, it has six bedrooms, four baths and 4,490 square feet. Days on market: 20.
HORIZON WEST GRANDE PINES
The home at 11851 Sheltering Pine Drive, Orlando, sold Sept. 3, for $810,000. Built in 2008, it has five bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths and 3,428 square feet. Days on market: 24.
INDEPENDENCE
The home at 6164 Meriwether Crescent, Winter Garden, sold Sept. 5, for $700,000. Built in 2011, it has four bedrooms, two-andone-half baths and 2,608 square feet of living area. Days on market: 38.
ORCHARD PARK
The home at 14019 Pecan Orchard Drive, Winter Garden, sold Sept. 3, for $690,000. Built in 2018, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,834 square feet. Days on market: 36.
OVERLOOK 2 AT HAMLIN
The home at 5341 Bowman Drive, Winter Garden, sold Sept. 5, for $1,185,000. Built in 2015, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 4,000 square feet.
PANTHER VIEW
The home at 14891 Winter Stay Drive, Winter Garden, sold Sept. 6, for $685,000. Built in 2018, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,662 square feet. Days on market: 129.
SANCTUARY AT LAKES OF WINDERMERE
The home at 13124 Orange Isle Drive, Windermere, sold Sept. 4, for $700,000. Built in 2022, it has four bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 3,201 square feet of living area. Days on market: 123.
SUMMERLAKE
The home at 8166 Common Teal Court, Winter Garden, sold Sept. 4, for $847,000. Built in 2019, it has four bedrooms, four baths and 3,561 square feet of living area. Days on market: 106.
The home at 8031 Pond Apple Drive sold Sept. 6, for $822,500. Built in 2017, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,957 square feet. Days on market: Two.
THORNHILL ESTATES
The home at 11746 Aldendale St. sold Sept. 3, for $960,000. Built in 2007, it has four bedrooms, threeand-one-half baths and 3,972 square feet. Days on market: 53.
OAKLAND JOHNS LANDING
The home at 538 Johns Landing Way, Oakland, sold Sept. 5, for $632,000. Built in 2003, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,469 square feet. Days on market: Two.
OCOEE NORTH OCOEE ADDITION
The home at 108 Wurst Road, Ocoee, sold Sept. 4, for $440,000. Built in 2018, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,711 square feet. Days on market: Three.
VILLAGES OF WESMERE
The home at 297 Horsemint Lane, Ocoee, sold Sept. 6, for $468,700. Built in 2011, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,150 square feet. Days on market: Six.
WYNWOOD
The home at 2536 Coachwood Drive, Ocoee, sold Sept. 4, for $434,990. Built in 2024, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,672 square feet. Days on market: 50.
WINDERMERE
KEENE’S POINTE
The home at 9861 Grosvenor Circle sold Sept. 6, for $1,700,000. Built in 2009, it has four bedrooms, five baths, two half-baths and 3,534 square feet. Days on market: 104.
LAKE DOWN COVE
The home at 9548 Hempel Cove Blvd. sold Sept. 6, for $1,375,000. Built in 1995, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 4,770 square feet.
TOWN OF WINDERMERE
The home at 409 W. Second Ave. sold Sept. 3, for $1,525,000. Built in 1995, it has five bedrooms, fourand-one-half baths and 4,688 square feet. Days on market: 90.
TUSCANY RIDGE
The home at 9108 Tintori Lane, Windermere, sold Sept. 5, for $1,400,000. Built in 2006, it has six bedrooms, five baths and 4,927 square feet. Days on market: 10.
WESTOVER RESERVE
The home at 1822 Westover Reserve Blvd. sold Sept. 5, for $970,000. Built in 1997, it has five bedrooms, four baths and 3,395 square feet.
WINTER GARDEN
AVALON RESERVE
The home at 1117 Vinsetta Circle, Winter Garden, sold Sept. 5, for $750,000. Built in 2014, it has five bedrooms, three baths and 3,273 square feet. Days on market: 91.
The home at 10074 Symphony Grove Drive, Golden Oak, sold Sept. 4, for $5,050,000. This home’s outdoor living space features a summer kitchen overlooking a pool and spa. The sellers were represented by Gregory Foxx, Golden Oak Realty.
CARRIAGE POINTE
The home at 2226 Redmark Lane, Winter Garden, sold Sept. 6, for $700,000. Built in 2012, it has four bedrooms, four baths and 3,184 square feet. Days on market: 38.
FULLERS CROSSING
The home at 1136 Burland Circle, Winter Garden, sold Sept. 5, for $550,000. Built in 2005, it has five bedrooms, four baths and 3,414 square feet. Days on market: 100.
MCALLISTER LANDING
The home at 699 Caterpillar Run, Winter Garden, sold Sept. 7, for $709,900. Built in 2019, it has five bedrooms, three baths and 3,449 square feet. Days on market: 35.
STONEYBROOK WEST
The home at 13907 Fox Glove St., Winter Garden, sold Sept. 4, for $565,000. Built in 2003, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,319 square feet. Days on market: 14.
VERDE PARK
The home at 17951 Gourd Neck Loop, Winter Garden, Lake County, sold Sept. 5, for $727,500. Built in 2015, it has five bedrooms, four baths and 3,163 square feet. Days on market: 43.
WESTFIELD LAKES
The home at 228 Blue Stone Circle, Winter Garden, sold Sept. 6, for $650,000. Built in 1998, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,775 square feet. Days on market: 67.
LAKE APOPKA NATURAL GAS DISTRICT CONTINUES TO LEND A HELPING HAND
As inflation and rising costs continue to strain budgets, energy disconnections have become an unfortunate reality for many Americans, but there’s hope! At Lake Apopka Natural Gas District (LANGD), we are committed to ensuring our customers in Apopka, Clermont, Winter Garden, and surrounding areas do not have to face these challenges alone. In 2021, the employees of LANGD were hearing and seeing the need to help those dealing with financial hardship and we launched LANGD’s Helping Hand, a customer assistance program designed to support residential customers struggling to keep up with their bills. Over the past two years, Helping Hand has supported our community in ways we could never have imagined.
In partnership with Heart of Florida United Way, LANGD’s Helping Hand has proven to be a vital resource for our community. The program was initiated after a $5,000 investment by LANGD’s board of directors, and thanks to the generosity of community members, vendors, LANGD employees and even fellow customers, it has continued to grow. In just over three years, the program has provided thousands of dollars in assistance, helping dozens of families keep their showers hot, and meals cooked.
The success of the Helping Hand reflects on LANGD’s deep-rooted commitment to our community. We are your neighbors, we live in the communities that we serve and when the COVID-19
pandemic surfaced in 2020, nobody could have imagined how it would affect so many families trying to make ends meet. The Helping Hand program was founded a year into the pandemic to provide critical financial assistance to families facing unprecedented economic challenges at the time, and its impact today is as strong as ever.
In addition to our Helping Hand program, the District also encourages customers to explore the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) and how it can also help low-income households with their energy bills. As a federally funded initiative, LIHEAP provides crucial support that ensures that more families have access to consistent, safe, and reliable natural gas, especially during challenging economic times. Learn more at https://acf.hhs.gov/ocs/programs/liheap.
LANGD’s Helping Hand is more than just a financial assistance program; it is a testament to our belief in the power of community. We understand that everyone needs someone to lean on from time to time, and we are proud to offer that Helping Hand.
If you or someone you know is a LANGD residential customer facing financial hardship, you may qualify for assistance. Applicants must be a customer of record or authorized on the account, have a past-due balance, and are not involved in tampering-related criminal activity. Assistance is available up to twice a year or up to $350 per household within a 12-month
period. If you want to donate to the Helping Hand fund, check out www.langd.org to learn more or contact us at (407) 656-2734. We are grateful for the generosity of our customers, employees, our vendors, and other community members who have donated to Helping Hand, and we believe the best is yet to come.
At LANGD, we will always work hard to ensure families in need have access to natural gas. Learn about switching to resilient, affordable and reliable natural gas by contacting the District’s marketing team at (407) 656-2734, x307, marketing@langd.org or visit www.langd.org for more information.
SPORTS
HIGH 5
1
The First Academy football has announced changes to its 2024 schedule, following cancellations from earlier this year.
Of the three changes to the Royals’ schedule, the biggest of note is its Oct. 18, Week Nine matchup against powerhouse Seminole High (3-0), which now will be TFA’s Homecoming game. The Royals have also added a game in Week Five, originally scheduled to be their bye week. TFA now will host Atlantic High School at 6:30 p.m. Sept. 20. With the added game in its original bye week, the third change to TFA’s schedule is its Week 10 game against Joshua Academy. TFA will no longer play that game, and that will become its new bye week.
2
Windermere Prep soccer player Alyssa Parsons announced her commitment to play college soccer at USC. “I am thrilled to join the Trojan family and contribute to USC’s rich tradition of excellence,” Parsons said in an Instagram post. “I am excited to embark on this new chapter All glory to God!”
3Olympia High boys swimming finished second out of 12 teams competing at the 2024 Record Breaker Invitational Sept. 14 at the Port Orange YMCA, while breaking several school and meet records.
The Titans finished first in five individual and relay events — the 200-meter medley relay (Keith Willis, Ethan Hodson, Austin Lesperance and Tristan Bonnet), 400-meter freestyle relay (Willis, Hodson, Lesperance and Bonnet), 200-meter freestyle (Bonnet), 200-meter individual medley (Hodson) and 100-meter breaststroke (Hodson) — setting a new meet record for each and a school record in the 200 medley relay. Bonnet added a secondplace finish in the 50-meter freestyle, as did Lesperance in the 100-meter butterfly Willis finished third in the 100-meter backstroke.
4The First Academy senior girls basketball player Sofi Miller has announced her commitment to continue her playing and academic career at Tennessee Tech. Miller, who averaged 13.8 points, 10.6 rebounds and 3.5 blocks a game last season, transferred to TFA from Sarasota High for her senior season.
5Not only did the Horizon boys cross country win the Hawks on the Hill Invitational at Lake Minneola High School Sept. 14, the Hawks also broke a handful of school and personal records.
Horizon as a team finished with a combined scorers (top five finishers) time of 86:46.06, which tops its previous team best from the Class 3A state meet last season by one minute. Hawks junior Jacob Finch finished first at the meet and broke the school individual record, which he also set at the 2023 state meet, with a time of 16:19.23, while freshman Maleik Lewis finished third and the other three Hawks scoring runner all finished in the top 12 — Girmay Buck (eighth), Mason Paulsberg (11th) and Andrew Hurm (12th).
Horizon will try to make it five consecutive team wins at the SSG Hammond Cross Country Invitational Sept. 21 at East Ridge High.
Sacrifice Me 4 We
Although the talent, coaching and resources all help West Orange football win games, it’s the team-first culture that’s moving the Warriors program forward.
SAM ALBUQUERQUE SPORTS EDITOR
Culture is more than motivational speeches or posters with quotes on the wall. It’s more than mottos or mantras that often are repeated by out-oftouch leaders to their team but are rarely digested and applied in reality.
In actuality, culture is simply how an organization’s standards, usually set by its leader, are met by those being led. Culture is tricky, because you need the buy-in from the people who have the least control. You need them to trust that what you’re ask-
ing of them will produce the proper result.
For West Orange High football, you don’t have to ask anyone if coach Geno Thompson’s players have bought into the standard he and his staff have set.
Players such as lineman Nico Marti, who plays both ways; seior defensive lineman Jackson Delgado, who often spends most games occupying two blockers to open up gaps for the linebackers; and sophomore starting quarterback Brian Dillard, who often sacrifices his own accolades, attention and glory for the team. All three representative of the effect their “Scrifice Me 4 We” mentality has on
Wolverine boys win first West Orange Invitational
Stoneybrook West Golf Club hosted the West Orange Invitational Sept. 13.
SAM ALBUQUERQUE
SPORTS EDITOR
One of the first things Stoneybrook West Golf Club Managing Director Rocky Hodge wanted to do when he reopened the famed West Orange course in 2023 was to make it the home of West Orange High golf. Along with the support of Warriors girls golf coach Michelle Head and boys coach Jason Thorndill, the West Orange teams made the move with big plans in mind — mainly hosting their own invitational golf tournament.
“We were all really excited that the course opened up again last year and we could establish this relationship between West Orange golf and Stoneybrook West as our new home course,” Thorndill said. “Since the beginning of our partnership, my vision was to do a tournament as soon as we could. So us to be here around a year after the course reopened makes me happy.”
On Sept. 13 Thorndill’s vision for the West Orange Boys Golf Invitational became a reality at the Warriors’ new home course, Stoneybrook West, as nine teams from around Central Florida came together for the first edition of the tournament. It was safe to assume he was excited
WEEK FIVE SCHEDULE
THURSDAY, SEPT. 19 n 4 p.m. Windermere Prep (0-2) vs. Trinity Prep (0-3)
FRIDAY, SEPT. 20 n 6:30 p.m. The First Academy (4-0) vs. Atlantic (4-0) n 7 p.m. CFCA (1-2) vs. Father Lopez (0-3) n 7 p.m. Dr. Phillips (3-0) vs. Lake Mary (2-1) n 7 p.m. Foundation Academy (1-2) vs. Melbourne Central Catholic (2-1) n 7 p.m. Horizon (0-4) at Evans (1-2) n 7 p.m. Lake Buena Vista (1-1) vs. West Orange (3-0) n 7 p.m. Olympia (2-2) at Lake Nona (1-2) n 7 p.m. Ocoee (2-2) at Boone (2-2) n 7 p.m. Windermere (4-0) vs. East River (2-2)
BYE n Legacy Charter helping build up these young men and push the West Orange football program forward. This was on display in the Warriors’ Week Four win over Boone High, to move West Orange moving to 3-0 for the first time since 2015.
SEE TEAM-FIRST PAGE 3B
Central Florida Christian football QB Mason Mathis led a long game-winning drive to give the Eagles its first win under coach Kevin Blackman. Page 2B.
Sam Albuquerque
Sam Albuquerque
West Orange High’s senior center, Nico Marti, left, and sophomore quarterback, Brian Dillard, are two examples of players who have bought into the Warriors’ ‘we before me’ mindset.
West Orange High senior Shawn Coultoff won the individual title at the inaugural edition of his school’s home tournament.
ATHLETE
Mason Mathis
Trailing to the visiting Marco Island Academy, the Central Florida Christian Academy Eagles needed a touchdown in the waning moments of the fourth quarter to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat.
Enter sophomore Mason Mathis.
The transfer QB from The First Academy made key plays for the CFCA offense’s gamewinning march down the length of the field, including the biggest play of the night.
After leading the Eagles to the Marco Island 30-yard line, Mathis took the shotgun snap and rolled to his left, as a fever of Rays defenders were clipping at his heels. As a Marco Island defender dived at his feet, Mathis jumped to avoid him while throwing the ball across his body to find receiver Hunter Mattsson for the 29-yard gain that set up the game-winning TD run.
The win marks CFCA’s first under second-year coach Kevin Blackman and the program’s first since the 2021 season.
How does it feel to be named Athlete of the Week?
I am very honored to be given this (honor), and I just want to give all the glory to God, because if it wasn’t for Him, I wouldn’t be here right now.
What did it feel like to lead the game-winning drive against Marco Island?
It felt great leading the team to that win. I really felt calm, and knowing God was with me, I just knew we were going to go down and score.
What do you like the most about football?
Being part of a team where we build (one another up) on and off the field.
What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned from football? Learning to push through, even when things are hard.
Who is your favorite athlete? My favorite
BASICS Age: 16
my game after Money Manziel!
Favorite football memory?
My favorite football memory is when I won a 7-on-7 National Championship with my team, 24K!
What is your go-to pre-game hype song?
Honestly, I don’t have one. I like to be focused and get hyped with my teammates.
What is your favorite subject in school?
I like math, because for some reason, it has always come easy to me.
What is your favorite movie?
“Despicable Me,” because it is so funny, and I like humor.
If you could have dinner with one person — dead or alive — who would it be?
Martin Luther King Jr., because I think it would be interesting to ask him about his iconic moments like the “I Have a Dream” speech. He is a shining example of how one person can stand up for his beliefs and make a change.
If you could go back in time to a specific period in history, when and where would you go?
Medieval times with the kings, queens and knights. It would be cool to attend the tournaments and check out the castles.
Looking back, what piece of advice would you give your younger self?
Surround yourself with friends who have the same mindset and goals as you. Your circle of friends can be empowering.
Who is your favorite superhero?
Spider-Man; his heroic values, such as selflessness and courage, inspire me. He is a regular person who uses his powers for the good of others.
Who is your favorite supervilGru from “Despicable Me,” because he’s so funny.
If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?
I’d want to fly, so I could travel anywhere, at any
If you could travel to three places in the world, where would you go and why?
Easy: Switzerland to snowboard, ski and go snowmobiling. The Maldives for the tropical vibe, and Thailand to experience all the culture.
Does pineapple belong on pizza? No, double pepperoni all the way.
— SAM ALBUQUERQUE
Windermere High School golf coach gets 1,000th win
to get started. “I pretty much invited everybody from the West Metro and other schools too,” Thorndill said. “I thought it really worked out well for our first time hosting a tournament. We had a nine-team event, so the groups divided into sets of three which made the numbers work really well.”
BRINGING HOME THE BACON
The inaugural golf invitational wasn’t the only history made on the Stoneybrook West course at the event, Windermere High boys golf coach Eric Bacon led his team to a first-place finish, marking his 1,000th career win as head coach.
The Wolverines shot for a combined score of 290 (+2), topping second-place Winter Park by eight strokes. Tournament hosts, West Orange, shot 304 (+16) on the 18-hole course and finished third while another area team — Foundation Academy — finished fifth after shooting 314 (+26).
Wolverines senior duo of Samuel Camargo and Cameron Baez finished in second and third, respectively, after Camargo shot a 67 (-5) to bring home the silver, while Baez shot a 68 (-4) to finish third.
Bacon, Windermere’s coach since the school opened, has been involved in youth golfing in Central Florida for more than 17 years — first serving as the manager of the AAU Eagle Junior Golfers Club tour, as well as the head boys golf coach
The Master’s Academy before taking over at Windermere High.
In the past seven seasons, Bacon has guided the Wolverines to seven consecutive trips to the state championship tournament and doesn’t
see a reason No. 8 won’t happen in 2024.
“I think we’ll get to the state tournament and have a chance,” Bacon said. “That’s our goal every year … at least give ourselves a chance to win a championship. You never know when you’re playing at a golf course like Mission Inn what could happen, but I believe we’ll get there and hopefully, we’ll be ready to play.”
WARRIOR DEFENDS HOME FIELD
Despite finishing third as a team, just 14 strokes from the combined score lead of Windermere, Thorndill’s ace golfer made sure to bring
home some hardware for the blue and orange faithful at its home tournament debut.
West Orange senior and Florida State commit Shawn Coultoff led all tournament golfers with a score of 64 (-8) across his home 18-hole golf course to claim the first individual crown of the West Orange Invitational.
“Shawn is obviously phenomenal, and being committed to play at FSU is a really cool opportunity for him,” Thorndill said. “With him leading the way, our first goal is to reach regionals as a team, especially because we are the host site for that tournament.”
Area teams face off at West Orange Cross Country Invitational
Following a team win at the St. Cloud Invitational Sept. 7 — its second of the early season — Windermere High girls cross country finished in second at the West Orange Invitational Sept. 14. This is the fourth consecutive top-two finish for the Wolverines this season. On the individual front, Olympia High senior girls runner Emily Knopfle finished third and was the best finisher of any runner — boy or girl — from West Orange and South-
west Orange at the meet. Fellow Titans senior Aubrey Frost finished sixth and Windermere senior Ava Lack led the Lady Wolverines runners with a seventh-place finish. As for the boys, another Titans senior, Taylor Fritts, led the way for the area’s boys at the meet, finishing 22nd with a time of 5:40.4, while the Windermere boys cross country team topped the other participating area squads with a seventh-place finish. — SAM ALBUQUERQUE
Windermere’s Cameron Baez finished third and helped the Wolverines win the team crown of the West Orange Invitational at Stoneybrook West Golf Club. Sam Albuquerque
Photos by Thomas Lightbody | TK Photography Olympia senior Emily Knopfle crossed the finish line in third at the 2024 West Orange XC Invitational.
West Orange High’s Jaiden McKee sprinted to the finish line of the boys race.
LAST WEEK’S RESULTS
CFCA (1-2), 36
Marco Island (1-2), 34
HIGHLIGHTS: After a rough start to the season, CFCA captured its first win of 2024 on the back of a late-game drive led by sophomore quarterback Mason Mathis. CFCA can credit its 36-34 home win over Marco Island Academy to its balanced offensive attack that saw Nyshaun Drye score two rushing TDs and Davy Murphy catch two receiving TDs.
UP NEXT: CFCA will stay at the Eagles’ Nest in Week Five, as it hosts Father Lopez Sept. 20.
Dr. Phillips (3-0), 21
Ocoee (2-2), 7
HIGHLIGHTS: Led by its rushing attack — with two touchdowns on the night by Kenorris White and Amari Major — the Panthers (3-0) earned a 21-7 victory over Ocoee High in a slow, choppy game riddled with penalties and stoppages.
“I’m excited about (this win),” said Dr. Phillips coach Rodney Wells. “This is a tough week. Every (high school) coach, probably in the nation ... hates Homecoming. This Homecoming week, we had festivities all week. They’re thinking about the dance and thinking about this and that. It’s just a lot of distractions this week, along with not just us but everybody else in Florida not having time on the practice field. We probably had an hour, maybe, each day. So it was sloppy, but it’s a good win.”
On the other side, Ocoee coach Buck Gurley liked the fight he saw from his players. He just wants his young team to tighten up a few things.
“We still have the grit in us,” Gurley said. “The discipline wasn’t there today. We jumped offside a lot of times, we didn’t get lined up correctly on offense a lot of times. We have to go back to the basics of football.”
UP NEXT: The Panthers will host Seminole County powerhouse Lake Mary High and its Notre Dame commit quarterback Noah Grubbs at Bill Spoone Stadium Sept. 20. The Knights travel to Boone High to take on the Braves.
The First Academy (4-0), 42 Melbourne Central Catholic (2-1), 6 HIGHLIGHTS: In its first district game of the season, the TFA Royals made another statement by topping Melbourne Central Catholic, 42-6. According to Royals coach Jeff Conaway, a lot of credit for the win goes to their defense.
“Incredible job by the defense tonight, because that quarterback can run and he has a very good arm, and he’s very accurate,” Conaway said. “He’s got weapons, and I thought we contained them well; we forced them to put together long drives. We didn’t give them any explosives. And I felt like that’s huge when you play an offense like this. Very proud of coach (Jacob) Gill, the defensive staff and the way that our guys played in the box, but really out there on the perimeter.”
UP NEXT: After a few changes to its schedule, the Royals will host Atlantic High Sept. 20.
Horizon (0-4), 19 Forest (1-3), 21
HIGHLIGHTS: The Hawks fell in its first Class 6A, District 6 matchup of the season to the Forest Wildcats on the road. After taking a 13-0 lead to start the game, Forest scored 21 unanswered points to seal the win.
UP NEXT: Horizon High will be on the road for its third of four consecutive road games, as it faces Evans High Sept. 20.
Lake Buena Vista (1-1), 24
Oak Ridge (2-2), 14
HIGHLIGHTS: Led by its defense, particularly seniors Erik Denico and Jefferson Ogine-Noel, the Vipers picked up their first win of the season over Oak Ridge High.
Denico caught an interception and made four total tackles on the night, while Ogine-Noel led LBV with eight total tackles, one of which was for a loss.
“We came out and competed, and the boys played great,” Vipers coach Brant Peddy said.
UP NEXT: Lake Buena Vista High will have its toughest test of the early season, as the Vipers host the undefeated West Orange Warriors Sept. 20.
Legacy Charter (1-4), 20
Trinity Prep (0-3), 0
HIGHLIGHTS: The Eagles earned their first win of the season behind a threerushing touchdown performance on offense and a shutout by the defense.
“It feels good to get the first one,” Legacy coach Zachary Fox said. “I’m proud of the product we were able to put together this week. We controlled the ball and the clock very well on offense. On defense, we were able to create turnovers and play lights-out ball for 48 minutes. We challenged the guys this week to put together a brand of football they would be proud of, and they were able to exceed those expectations.”
UP NEXT: The Eagles will be on a bye week next, before traveling to Lake Highland Prep Sept. 27.
Olympia (2-2), 30
Timber Creek (1-3), 23
HIGHLIGHTS: After losing two straight, the Titans bounced back against Timber Creek at home and squeezed out a win in overtime.
“They gave everything they had last night, and I couldn’t be more proud of the way they played,” Olympia coach Travis Gabriel said. “It wasn’t even about the win, I was good regardless of that. All I ask them to do every game is just play hard all four quarters and the scoreboard will take care of itself and I think they did that last night.”
UP NEXT: Olympia High will be on the road in Week Five, as the Titans face off against the Lake Nona Lions Sept. 20.
West Orange (3-0), 24
Boone (2-2), 17
HIGHLIGHTS: West Orange continues to build on its early season success with another win — this time over Boone High at Raymond Screws Field.
“(The) team played a great game tonight,” Warriors coach Geno Thompson said. “(We) battled through adversity for the second week in a row, (but) this time it was the defense that anchored our success. (The) offense got right after halftime, (we) made some match-up adjustments and took advantage. Hats off to Coach (Andy) Johnson at Boone; his team played with a lot of passion, and it was a battle.”
UP NEXT: West Orange High will head to Southwest Orange next week to face Lake Buena Vista High Sept. 20.
Windermere (4-0), 57
University (0-3), 7
HIGHLIGHTS: Despite the disappointment that came with the delay of the opening of its new on-campus stadium, the Windermere Wolverines didn’t seem fazed on the football field.
“We came to play tonight,” Windermere coach Riki Smith said. “The effort and intensity level was where it needed to be. I told the players to enjoy it tonight and tomorrow (because we’re) back to work on Sunday.”
Quarterback Jack Reilly continues his great start to the early season with three touchdown passes, while running back Henry Rodgers had a trio of TDs of his own. Senior athlete Bryce Speed also joined the TD party on both sides of the ball — catching one of Reilly’s TD passes and returning an interception for a score.
UP NEXT: It is unclear where the Wolverines will play its next game. They are slated to host East River High, Sept. 20.
Team-first culture anchors Warriors
“We saw the perfect example of what we’re preaching this past Friday night with the situation with Brian,” Thompson said. “We’re leading by seven, and there’s like a minute left on the clock. Boone had just scored on us the possession before in like 15, 20 seconds, and they had two time-outs left — which Brian was fully aware of, we didn’t have to remind him of any of this — so it was a situation where that game could very well have turned out differently if Brian doesn’t make that decision.”
The decision Thompson’s quarterback made was to give up a walk-in touchdown and give the Braves offense another possession to score points. Instead he slid short of the end zone to keep the ball and let the clock run out, sealing the 24-17 win for the Warriors.
“There was only a little time left on the clock, and I knew that one first down would essentially win us the game,” Dillard said. “Once I broke free, my head just went straight to I have to slide mode, and I was definitely hearing coach in the back of my head, too. … Obviously, I trust our defense and scoring a touchdown is always nice, but ultimately ending the game faster and getting the win is more important. There’s also no need to extend the game and risk someone getting injured or anything crazy like that.”
Unlike Dillard’s sacrifice, which came with all eyeballs on him, players in the trenches such as Delgado usually don’t get the same sort of attention from the outside for their sacrifices.
“When you’re on the field, a lot of times you have a job or responsibility that you have to do,” Thompson said. “For example, a defensive lineman like Jackson — his job may be spilling or cutting, maybe it’s taking on a 350-pounder. Those responsibilities don’t usually get your name in the paper. Not many people are going to know that the reason why that middle linebacker made the tackle is because that defensive lineman did his job and took on the pulling guard.
“But the guys in the locker room know and the coaches know how important it was to our success that you did your job,” he said. “And that’s what we try to preach across the board with our guys; do your job to the best of your ability and sacrifice yourself for the betterment of the team … it’s not about me, it’s not about my stats, it’s about the team and what can we do to better the team.”
Delgado has bought into that mindset.
“I play nose tackle, so that means all night, I’m getting double-teamed, and most of the time, I don’t make the tackle,” he said. “But if I can take those two big linemen’s attention and they come toward me, that leaves my linebackers free to make the tackle, right? Every player on this team does little stuff like that, and that’s what makes this team special. I always receivers blocking for the running backs, or if another receiver catches the ball. Our O-Line is always pushing forward, pulling and getting to the second level. Guys like Brian are always unselfish and always put the team making big plays ahead of getting things like stats.”
On the other side of the trenches — the offensive line — there’s an inherent sacrifice that just comes with playing a position whose sole purpose is to help others succeed.
“Playing offensive line, that’s like the classic sacrificial/unselfish group on the football field,” Marti said. “You just go out there and have to block every play, without nearly ever getting to touch the ball. At the end of the game, if you did your job well, your name doesn’t get called out, you only get called out on the negative stuff. To play this sort of position, sacrifice for the team is just part of the job.”
These three Warriors are great representatives of the numerous players who have bought into the team-first mentality.
“What I’ve seen over my years, coaching and playing, is when teams are willing to sacrifice for (one another), they win games they shouldn’t,” Thompson said.
Sam Albuquerque
Dr. Phillips quarterback Stanley Anderson-Lofton rolled out of the pocket against Ocoee.
SUKUNYA ANAN KLA SCHOOLS OF HORIZON WEST
Sukunya Anan, known to many as Ms. Bell, is the lead pre-K teacher at KLA Schools of Horizon West. Her job duties include creating custom experiences and curriculum, observing children’s progression, promoting self-awareness among the children, and communicating with all parents about their child’s development. Some of her job-related accolades include becoming a part of the pre-K teachers lead team, teacher of the month and being one of four lead teachers chosen to attend a study group at Reggio Emilia’s Loris Malaguzzi International Centre in Reggio Emilia, Italy.
What brought you to your school?
What brought me to the KLA Schools of Horizon West was the opportunity to broaden my educational teaching background. Having had experience in traditional teaching settings, I wanted to learn the Reggio Emilia Approach of developing early childhood children.
What do you love most about your school?
I love my school’s environment and overall layout. There are many different areas for children to discover.
What is the most rewarding part of your job?
The most rewarding part of my job is being able to make a difference. From the first day of school until the last day of school, the progress made by the children is enormous.
What would you be if you weren’t in this profession?
I would be a flight attendant in an international airline. The reason for this is because I also have a passion for hospitality.
REPORT CARD
POSITION: Lead pre-K teacher TIME AT SCHOOL: More than a year
Who influences you?
The person that influences me the most would be Mrs. Milena Barros, who is the pedagogist at my school. She promotes positivity and observation of the children.
Who was your favorite teacher when you were in school? Why?
My favorite teacher was Mr. Dominick, because he always pushed me out of my comfort zone, which allowed me to learn better.
What is your favorite children’s book and why?
My favorite children’s book is “Pete the Cat: I Love My White Shoes,” because the story engages the children to keep trying and no matter what you step in, to keep singing your song, because it’s all good.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
In my spare time, I like to attend group dancing sessions. Exercising and listening to music helps me prepare for any challenge.
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 Lalisa Manobal from the Blackpink band. The reason is because she is an international superstar from my home country of Thailand.
If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?
My superpower would be to have the ability to speak any language ever created. With this superpower, I would be able to communicate and emphasize with young children across the world.
If you could only listen to three bands or artists, who would they be and why?
If I could only listen to three bands or artists, it would be Blackpink, Drake and Jaran Mnopet, who is a Thai artist. I like these three artists, because they cover a wide range of genres.
What was your go-to lunch and favorite snack as an elementary student?
I went to elementary school in Bangkok, Thailand, and my favorite go-to lunch was spicy noodle soup. My favorite snack in elementary school was Thai basil potato chips.
What is your favorite holiday and why?
Christmas is my favorite holiday of all time. I love Christmas music, family gatherings and all the holiday festivities.
Who was your best friend when you were in school and why? Are you still in touch? When I was in school, one of my best friends was Pinknuch. We had very similar upbringings and understand each other very well. We are still in touch.
What were your extracurricular activities as a student?
Did you win any accolades or honors?
As a student, I participated in cheerleading, dancing and played an instrument called the ranat. The ranat is similar to a xylophone.
— ANNABELLE SIKES
Gotha Middle to rock the school
AMY QUESINBERRY COMMUNITY EDITOR
Friday, Sept. 27, is going to be a rockin’ day at Gotha Middle School. The school was selected to be the 2024 Orange County Public Schools representative and host school for Rock Your School.
Get Your Teach On is a national program, and conferences are held each summer to empower teachers “to be bigger and brighter” and provide free resources to enhance education. It culminates with a one-week Rock Your School event that starts in Los Angeles and moves across the country, celebrating at host schools along the way until it final stop in Florida.
Gotha Middle was chosen as the East Coast representative and is the first OCPS middle school chosen, Principal Monica Emery said.
OCPS even has its own Rock Your School theme: Amp Up Education.
GYTO representatives will be at Gotha Middle to host a rally that also will celebrate the school’s 30th anniversary and that the school was just two points shy of an “A” grade.
“That’s going to be the focus of our celebration,” Emery said.
GYTO will have a deejay, and students will participate in competitions through their Cambridge learner attribute groups: Confident, Responsible, Reflective, Innovative and Engaged.
“They have themes, they have challenges, they award points based on participation, there will be kids vs. staff,” Emery said.
“There will be a local celebrity here too to cheer on the teachers and the kids.”
The middle school has been named an Orange County Public Schools Rock Your School host school and will celebrate Sept. 27.
Helping plan the rally is the school’s Shenanigan Squad, which is a group of teachers and staff who go above and beyond in creating fun at the school.
Last year, more than 100,000 educators participated in the weeklong Rock Your School.
The initiative was started five years ago to encourage teachers and schools to create an educational experience by doing something different for their students to celebrate the little things.
Last year, more than 100,000 educators participated in the weeklong Rock Your School.
The events are filmed and shared on social media, including GYTO’s YouTube channel.
Gotha Middle has a history of celebrating its students through music. One annual tradition is to create a musical montage and video; the entire school — students and staff — participates. A camera operator meanders throughout the entire campus, with everyone lining the sides, carrying signs, wearing costumes and fun accessories, and singing along.
Courtesy photo
The Shenanigan Squad at Gotha Middle School: Emilee McCluskey, top left, Maureen Miller and Principal Monica Emery; Michelle Davis, bottom left, Davina Chunoo, George the mascot, Erin Hinz and Cindy Jones. Not pictured: Kimberly Do.
Original staff members retire from Windermere High School
Lori and Nancy Laurenzana, who have spent a combined 62 years in education, were hired in 2017 to open the high school.
Nancy and Lori Laurenzana are ready for the next chapter of their lives. The two teachers at Windermere High School have counseled one last student and led one final film class after a combined 62 years in the education field and are heading into retirement. Lori Laurenzana’s last official day at WHS was Aug. 9; Nancy Laurenzana finished her last day Sept. 4. Both were working at Maitland Middle School in 2017 when they were recruited to open the new Windermere High.
Nancy Laurenzana worked for Orange County Public Schools for more than 30 years, teaching and working with students from sixth to 12th grade at three different schools: Ocoee and Maitland middle schools (three years and 24 years, respectively) and Windermere High. She taught
a variety of courses — math, science, Spanish, computer classes and TV broadcast — and served as a media specialist and technology specialist
before landing her favorite position as college and career specialist. “I would meet with the seniors and do presentations for them on what
weekdays at 6pm, weekends at noon* Children 7+ are welcome and must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
*Please call ahead
would be some options for them after high school,” she said. “Presentations in groups and then meet individually — if they’re going to college, or career options, or connect with (the) military. … I put together career fairs and bring people in the industry and help (students) apply for jobs. Each year, I hosted a college fair where we had over 100 different colleges.”
Lori Laurenzana has worked for OCPS for 32 years, teaching digital and video technology — film and broadcast — for more than half her career.
“I taught it at Maitland the entire time and was very involved with film competitions,” she said. “My middle-school kids would beat out highschool kids in competitions. That was one of the reasons Mr. (former principal Doug) Guthrie wanted me to come over to Windermere and start the program from scratch.”
She started at Glenridge Middle School in 1989 for one year, taught reading at Apopka Middle School for one year and then helped open Discovery Middle School. After seven years, she helped open Gotha Middle School. She then taught at Maitland Middle before helping open Windermere High.
“I’ve spent half of my career opening up new schools,” Lori Laurenzana said.
Both educators said working with students have been a fulfilling career.
For Nancy Laurenzana, it was turning them on to books, allowing them to explore the world around them through virtual field trips and helping them see what career options are out there. She took graduating seniors on European adventures too.
For Lori Laurenzana, it was showing them the different career paths in
either film or broadcast. She took her students all over the country to participate in film competitions. Some former students have pursued their own career in the industry, and a few have won major awards.
The couple married in 2017 and has a blended family of six children ranging in age from 22 to 32.
They both agreed this was the year to retire.
“My mother passed away, and it put things in perspective,” Lori Laurenzana said. “Life is short, and there’s no guarantee for tomorrow.”
“It’s just time to let go of the education piece and explore new things,” Nancy Laurenzana said.
“I am now ready for the next adventure,” Lori Laurenzana wrote on her Facebook page. “Life is short. ... Eat the cake, buy the shoes, book the cruise and capture the moments. Let’s go!”
Nancy Laurenzana’s Facebook post similarly summed up the decision:
“Now it’s time to play, explore and keep learning through our travels for the next 41 years.”
“Every day is like a Saturday,” Lori Laurenzana said.
The two have traveled to more than 35 countries and all but six states in the United States. They enjoy getting out and learning other cultures, and they chronicle their explorations through photos and videos.
“Nancy has this philosophy of traveling,” Lori Laurenzana said. “’Go Go’ is going to Europe and traveling internationally while you’re still in shape and good health; go now and do all the stuff outside the U.S. ‘Slow Go’ is when you finish the U.S. and ADA is everywhere. ‘No Go’ is when we find a beach and have a condo on the beach.”
Lori, center left, and Nancy Laurenzana were surrounded by their blended family when they got married in 2017.
Nancy, left, and Lori Laurenzana took their last “first day of school” photo in August.
Courtesy photos
Nancy, right, and Lori Laurenzana spent a combined 62 years in education.
Windermere High Principal Andrew Leftakis recognized Nancy, left, and Lori Laurenzana for their longtime commitment to education.
It is with the heaviest hearts that we announce the passing of Mark Edward Brown, 66, of Dr. Phillips, who entered Heaven on Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024, after suffering a cardiac event at home.
Mark was an incredible husband, proud father, and adored Grandpa and Papa. He also held many other cherished roles, including son, brother, uncle, nephew, cousin, educator, administrator, church usher and loyal friend. His life was defined by selfless love, kindness and a deep devotion to his faith, family and community.
He is survived by his wife, Kelly; his sons, Eric (Vicky) Brown of Germany, parents of adored grandchildren, Emma and Valentin Brown; Mike (Caley) Brown, of Minneola, Florida, parents of treasured grand-
Manouchehr Roohi Broujeni, 85, died Sunday, Sept. 15, 2024, surrounded by his family. Woodlawn Memorial Park and Funeral Home, Gotha.
John Edward Carr, 84, died Wednesday, Sept. 11, 2024. Winter Oak Funeral Home & Cremations, Winter Garden.
sons, Brody and Cooper Brown; parents-in-law, Bill and Judy Moss; brother, Neal Brown; numerous loved aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.
Mark is preceded in death by his parents, Betty (Stack) and Clinton Brown; brother, Dale Brown; brother-in-law, Jim Moss. Mark’s love for their surviving children — Tim, Jeoff, Jillian and Isabella — extend-
Carol Josephine (Keeney) Fullerton, 98, died Wednesday, Sept. 4, 2024. Collison Carey Hand Funeral Home, Winter Garden.
Josephine Coombs Gilbert, 93, died Tuesday, Sept. 10, 2024, in Winter Garden. Winter Oak Funeral Home & Cremations, Winter Garden.
ed far beyond that of an uncle.
Born in Missouri on June 14, 1958, the youngest son of Betty and Clinton Brown, Mark grew up as a faithful member of Temple Baptist Church.
Mark was an avid sports lover from childhood. He enjoyed playing baseball and tennis and running cross country during his school years and continued his love for sports throughout college and beyond.
Mark taught and coached many teams throughout his life. After attending Southwest Baptist University, Mark taught and coached in Stockton, Missouri. Mark moved to Central Florida, where he raised his two incredible sons, Eric and Mike, alongside their mother, Donna Poston Brown. Mark continued his career where he held titles as teacher, athletic director, assistant principal and principal. He faith-
Terri Jane Mongiello, 72, of Orlando, died Thursday, Sept. 5, 2024 at AdventHealth Hospice in Orlando. Winter Oak Funeral Home & Cremations, Winter Garden.
Gonzalo Perez Nieves, 86, died Friday, Sept. 6th, 2024, in his home in Winter Garden. Collison Carey Hand Funeral Home, Winter Garden.
fully served at West Orange, Jones and Freedom High Schools; Southwest Middle School; and Blankner School, leaving a lasting impact on countless students and colleagues. Mark obtained his Masters of Educational Leadership from University of Central Florida.
In 2012, Mark married his beloved wife, Kelly. Together, they built a life rooted in love and faith. They shared a deep bond for 12 beautiful years with their beloved black lab, Cheyenne. Together, they were active members of First Baptist of Orlando, where Mark was a bright presence in the community as an usher and was involved in the Alzheimer’s support ministry.
Mark’s passing has left a void that can never be filled, but those who knew him take comfort in knowing he is with Jesus, waiting to welcome us with the same warmth and love he gave so freely in life. Mark taught
Maria Migdalia Olmeda, 70, of Ocoee, died Sunday, Sept. 15, 2024. Collison Carey Hand Funeral Home, Winter Garden.
Glenn “Boosie” Peters, 62, of Ocoee, died Tuesday, Sept. 10, 2024, at the Davenport Nursing Home after suffering a stroke April 11, 2024. Winter Oak Funeral Home & Cremations, Winter Garden.
us all how to love Jesus and others, and we will continue honoring his legacy by living out those lessons. Love Jesus and love one another.
A Celebration of Life was held at 4 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 18, 2024, at First Baptist of Orlando, Henry Chapel, located at 3000 S. John Young Parkway, Orlando, Florida. A reception followed at FOP Lodge No. 25, 5505 Hansel Ave., Orlando, Florida.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Association in Mark’s memory. The family is also requesting written sentiments, photos, cards and videos to be shared at memoriesofmarkbrown@ gmail.com.
Mark leaves behind a loving legacy of faith, kindness and how he cared for people that will forever remain in the hearts of all who had the honor of knowing him.
Sursatee “Geeta” Ramsuchit 69, died Friday, Sept. 6, 2024, surrounded by her family. Winter Oak Funeral Home & Cremations, Winter Garden.
John Thomas Rock, 85, of Orlando, died Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. DeGusipe Funeral Home & Crematory — West Orange Chapel, Ocoee.
THE WAYS WE WERE FROM THE WINTER GARDEN HERITAGE FOUNDATION
80 years ago
Cpl. Dayl W. Donahey and Mrs. Donahey returned to Boca Raton Field following a stay with the latter’s parents, Mr. and Mrs. Clarence Lau.
Gordon Wright, of Ocoee, left for Jacksonville to enter the United States Navy.
George W. Bray Jr., serving with the Armed Forces in France, was promoted to corporal with the U.S. Engineers.
70 years ago
Mr. and Mrs. Hubert Donaldson spent the weekend in Jacksonville as guests of Mr. and Mrs. Tommy Sewell.
Mr. and Mrs. Roy Fulmer entertained at their camp on Lake Butler honoring their son, Granville, on his birthday and as a going-away party. He graduated from the University of Florida with the rank of second lieutenant and reported to the Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas.
50 years ago
Howard’s Winter Garden Hardware
celebrated its grand opening on North Dillard Street. The store specialized in supplies for home, auto, farm and industry.
The new West Orange High School under construction was cited for design excellence by the Council of Educational Facility Planners.
At Lakeview High School, class officers were as follows: Denise
This Deutz-Allis tractor, model 6265, was made from 1986 through 1989. The back of this photo, dated September 1990, notes the image was made by Pounds Motor Co., once located in its building at the southeast corner of Plant and Main streets in Winter Garden adjacent to the Garden Theatre. Among his many enterprises, founder Hoyle Pounds sold tractors to area citrus and vegetable farmers. The Winter Garden Heritage Foundation, thanks to the generosity of the Pounds family, preserves many artifacts and documents relating to this company. 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.
Morris, Rachel Mashburn, Lisa Godfrey, Jimmy Jones, Teddy Bryant and Rick Miller, seniors; Jim Roberson, Nancy Bowden and Greg Kannon, juniors; and Jerry Gillard, Skate Clenney, Tamara Wilcox and Ronnie Fleming, sophomores.
Wayne and Jean Icenhour reshaped the West Orange Music Center, adding men’s, women’s and children’s apparel — a smart move because they knew the clothing business well from their years running Penny Saver Department Store in Winter Garden.
45 years ago
Mary Anne Swickerath, an ADDi-
tions volunteer at Ocoee Elementary School, spent her summer teaching arts and crafts at the Ocoee Youth Center.
Lee Ann Mitchell, of Windermere, was ready for the Valdosta State College football season as a Blazer Girl, serving as an official recruiting hostess for VSC football players and prospects. The ground was broken for the erection of a combination church building and parish house for the Episcopal Church of the Messiah in Winter Garden. It was being
built at the corner of Woodland and Tilden streets in the cathedral style of architecture. Seating capacity was planned for 120.
40 years ago
Johnny Luff, town manager of Windermere, reported employees found two patches of hydrilla growing in the shallow water near the boat ramp at Seventh Avenue. The town called the Environmental Protection Agency, and the Orange County Pollution Control made a visit to treat the weeds.
THROWBACK
THURSDAY
SEPT. 18, 1942
An advertisement in West Orange News touted “Florida’s newest, finest and largest allyear hotel,” the Riviera Hotel Bar and Grill, near Daytona Beach. It was called the “po’ folks” vacation headquarters. Amenities included a
Cipher cryptograms are created from quotations by
past and present. Each letter in the cipher stands for another.
