11.21.24 Southwest Orange Observer

SOUTHWEST ORANGE

Windermere, Horizon West, Dr. Phillips

Your hyperlocal wish book COMFORT FOOD

Oakland resident Joseph ‘Joe’ Warren is a lifelong artist in myriad media. SEE PAGE 7B.

YOUR TOWN

Will Winter Garden end recycling services?

Staff calculate the city is spending more than $1 million per year on recycling services, and the volume of recycled material is decreasing. SEE PAGE 8A.

GAME OF THE WEEK

The West Orange High Warriors will meet Plant City in the next round of the 2024 playoffs. SEE PAGE 1B.

Despite mixed opinions from Windermere Town Council members, the Chaine du Lac annexation will move forward to a second reading. SEE

2A.

Courtesy photos Luke Malegni learned some new cooking skills through this project.

Right: Chase Prevett was excited to help Luke Malegni with his casserole project.

IN OTHER NEWS

n The Windermere Town Council approved a resolution, as well as an agreement, pertaining to the Windermere Trail Project — Town of Windermere Safe Routes to School Project Phase 1. The Florida Department of Transportation requires the resolution to be adopted in conjunction with the Local Agency Program Agreement. FDOT also requires the execution of three agreements as part of the process for moving forward to the construction phase on the Pedestrian Bridge and the Ward Trail, both parts of the Phase 1 project.

n Windermere approved Paul M. Pantozzi II to the Long Range Planning Committee.

n Council members approved the following appointments to the newly developed Windermere Active Youth Committee: Anna Andert, Claire O’Malley, Emerson Elliott, Emily Schurr, Loren Williams, Maija Andert and Sophia Andert.

n The town approved two financial items from the Parks & Recreation Committee for the Centennial Celebration: Laub’s Drainage & Flexi Pave for the Centennial Walkway at Central Park in the amount of $72,087.50 and Rep Services Inc. for the purchase of the Centennial Adopt-a-Bench Program in the amount of $21,186.69.

Chaine du Lac annexation moving forward

ANNABELLE SIKES NEWS EDITOR

Although Windermere Town Council members generally support the proposed annexation of the Chaine du Lac community, opinions vary on whether a referendum for approval should apply only to Chaine du Lac residents or to all town residents.

At its Nov. 12 meeting, the Town Council opted to move the ordinance forward to a second reading planned for Dec. 10.

According to cost estimates from Town Clerk Dorothy Burkhalter, advertising the referendum to only Chaine du Lac residents would cost about $1,500 to $2,000. Including all town residents would increase costs to about $4,000 to $5,000. The referendum would require a 50% plus one vote to pass.

However, council members Tom Stroup and Brandi Haines believe the cost should not be the determining factor and all residents in the town should have an opportunity to voice their opinions on a decision that impacts the entire community.

“I have had a couple of people come to me and say they think it’s a good idea to annex in Chaine du Lac, and I have friends that live in Chaine du Lac (who) want to be annexed in,” Haines said. “That being said, the majority of people I’ve spoken with say the exact opposite. Some of them have said that even if they want Chaine du Lac annexed, they want the right to have a vote on it.”

REFERENDUM ROUNDTABLE

Chaine du Lac is located on 103 acres south of Lake Butler Boulevard and abuts the town limits to the west. The annexation would include not only the community’s homeowners association but also the entire area.

The Windermere proper town limit is 2.2 square miles, and Chaine du Lac would add about one-third of a square mile.

Town Planner Brad Cornelius said the town is essentially a built-out community with few vacant properties left. Currently, the town has about 3,038 residents, with a total of about 3,250 residents estimated after build-out. Chaine du Lac would bring in about 212 residents if annexed.

Although council members reached a consensus at a workshop in May to move forward with the annexation, they have been divided throughout the process on whether the entire town population should be included as part of the voting process.

The annexation was initiated by the Chaine du Lac HOA.

Unlike Stroup and Haines, Mayor Jim O’Brien said most town residents he has spoken to support the annexation and refer to it as a “no-brainer.”

“We have an annexation that is of relatively small size with minimal impact; the character matches the character of the town,” he said. “We have to go with what we feel the

town would think. Is it an option to have a full referendum? Yes. They’re very rarely successful. … The more you can control the borders of your community, the more you can control the quality of life, and that’s what we strive to do here. This isn’t about getting big. It’s about maintaining and increasing a little bit of what we receive in taxes so we are able to provide additional services and opportunities.”

However, Stroup maintained that if the entire town was allowed to vote on the annexation, then its success or failure would be based on the true will of the people.

“If the residents in Windermere voted not to have Chaine du Lac annexed in, that would be a valid reason to have a referendum,” Stroup said. “Not having a referendum in fear of residents not being for it is not the right reason not to have a referendum.”

BESSIE DRAINAGE Council members also shared mixed opinions on a sub-recipient grant agreement for the Bessie Drainage project, which was tabled following concerns from Haines at the October Town Council meeting.

Under the grant process for the Florida Division of Emergency Management, the town was awarded funds for drainage improvements for the Bessie Basin area.

This agreement is only for the portion for which FDEM will pay under the Benefit Cost Analysis performed for the project.

The plans have been submitted to the state; staff recommended the approval of the agreement.

However, residents are upset because they thought potable water was included with the project, which now appears not to be the case.

At the October meeting, Town Manager Robert Smith said the town was hoping to obtain additional money for the potable water at the same time but currently does not have the funds to do so. Therefore, the town currently is focused on completing the stormwater projects.

Former Town Council Member and Windermere resident Bill Bardoe said he opposed the project from the beginning.

“The only carrot that was offered that made me change my mind was the Orange County water … but that’s gone now,” he said. “It was taken out. We didn’t even find out about it until three weeks ago. … It’s not going to happen in my lifetime. I’m never going to see that water.”

Nancy Bardoe said the couple’s neighbors also are opposed to the project.

“There’s been a lack of communication and transparency,” she said.

“I know people here know how important this is to us, and I just don’t think we received the information we needed.” Haines also said she has a concern with transparency. However, the item passed, 4-1, with Haines dissenting.

NEW CHAPTER: County breaks ground on Horizon West Library

Orange County Library System hosted a groundbreaking event for the Horizon West Branch Library Nov. 13 at 4657 Hamlin Groves Trail, Winter Garden.

The library, set to open in spring 2025, is located past the Horizon West Regional Park entrance.

The library campus will include 11 acres with shared parking, retention ponds, the library building, an outdoor area and space for a future recreation center. The 20,000-square-foot library building with outdoor space will be on 1.1 acres.

Borrelli + Partners created the library’s design. The Horizon West branch will include a lobby, children’s section, an area for collections, public computers, training rooms, study rooms, a media lab, meeting rooms, an outdoor stage, administration area and support space. The library also will have meeting space with flex walls that can accommodate large or small events.

The library’s design also incorporates natural elements that blend in with the regional park.

— ANNABELLE SIKES

of the

ONLINE Library updates: Visit ocls.org/horizon-west-updates. To read the

visit shorturl.at/3Tsxy.

Oakland amends office park agreement

IN OTHER NEWS

n The Oakland Town Commission appointed Jonathan R. Baucom to the Appearance Review Board as an alternate member; as well as Jay Russell as a regular member and Ed Kulakowski as an alternate member on the Planning & Zoning Board.

n Commissioners passed a resolution that amends the defined contribution retirement plan for Oakland’s police officers. In the Fiscal Year 2024-25 budget, an increase to the town contribution from 14% to 16% for full-time officers had been approved, so the resolution was necessary.

n Norine Dworkin, editor-in-chief of VoxPopuli, confronted Commissioner Sal Ramos regarding his business’ contributions to the political campaign of Austin Arthur, who unsuccessfully ran for the District 1 seat on the Orange County Board of County Commissioners. Ramos’ company, Empire Finish Systems, donated $1,000 to the campaign in July and another $1,000 in August. According to state law, individual donations

cannot exceed $1,000. Dworkin asked Ramos to explain how this happened. He responded, “No comment,” but he did say the Arthur campaign returned the second $1,000 donation earlier this month.

n In his town manager’s report, Andy Stewart said residents have been complaining about the cellular carrier coverage, and town staff is working on a solution.

n Finance Director Gaby Leon provided end-of-year figures for the town’s three funds and included numbers reflecting state- and town-generated revenues, compensation, operating expenses, and other expenses associated with each department. A budget amendment is not needed because the General, Enterprise and Impact Fee funds did not exceed approved budgeted expenditures. The General Fund is left with about $800,000 in reserves. Leon said $200,000 of that will be used to fund the General Fund for Fiscal Year 2024-25. She and Stewart are working on investing some of the town’s reserves to increase revenue for the upcoming fiscal year.

Town commissioners agreed to increase the number of buildings to keep the structures one story.

AMY QUESINBERRY PRICE COMMUNITY EDITOR

Representatives for the Oakland Exchange Office Complex appeared before the Oakland Town Commission Nov. 12 to request changes to the developer’s agreement. The owner, RaceTrac Inc., wants to build 12 office buildings behind the existing RaceTrac. The request was to change the site layout and building development standards, vacate a 5-foot internal utility easement/landscape buffer between Lots 5 and 6, construct a 42-square-foot monument sign instead of the required maximum of 32 square feet, maintain a 5-foot-wide sidewalk, and increase the maximum allowed office space from 30,000 square feet to 37,184.

Sarah Mastison, town planner, presented the proposal, which included information pertaining to infrastructure. The project will connect to the town’s potable water and sewer. A traffic study from earlier this year also was submitted and approved by

the town’s contracted engineer, who said the project traffic would be less than 2% of the existing traffic.

The agreement requires the developer to keep at least 18 of the existing trees on the property.

The developer requested the site layout so it can build one-story buildings — instead of the two- and three-story structures previously requested.

“We wanted it to be residential in character, as it transitions between commercial with the gas stations and the homes behind,” said Jimmy Crawford, the attorney representing developer JW2 LLC. “We wanted to have less impact on the neighborhood.”

Commissioner Joseph McMullen questioned the traffic study and wanted additional information.

“I will tell you, it’s a mess around 7:20 (a.m.) … when I’m trying to go out to the cleaners (or) grocery store,” he said. “I try to do that in the morning, and it’s hard to get out. We really need to look at this … and you’ve got kids standing there (waiting) for the bus. … It’s the volume. … Adding 12 businesses, I can’t imagine how 12 business is going to be added to that.”

Crawford said the offices shouldn’t produce a high volume of traffic.

“We think the better design, less impact on the community, more than outweighs the traffic,” he said.

“I want the area to developed; I really, really do,” Commissioner Sal Ramos said. “But … it’s really hard to get out.”

Crawford said he will request his traffic surveyor to attend the Dec. 10 Town Commission meeting. The commission voted in favor of the amendment ordinance, which included the Planning & Zoning Board’s conditions of enhanced dumpster screening and denial of the increase in size for the monument sign.

TREE CITY USA

The town now has received the Tree City USA Award for 21 consecutive years. A report to the commission outlined the town’s status:

“Due to the trees being planted by developers in the new neighborhoods and a renewed emphasis on tree planting along rights-of-way and in publicly owned spaces, our per-capita expenditure has once remained very high,” the report says. “In 2014, the value placed on this standard was a mere $5.45. By 2018, due to construction of Oakland Trails, it had jumped to $65.87. For three years in a row — 2021, 2022 and 2023 — it was slightly less than $70 per capita. ... For 2024, the per capita value placed on tree planting and maintenance activities was $32.13.”

Members

Horizon West Happenings team joined project leaders at the ground-breaking ceremony.

Orange Observer’s latest report on the library,

Annabelle Sikes

Windermere High junior spearheads casserole campaign

MICHAEL ENG

EDITOR AND PUBLISHER

For some, food is the most effective way to a person’s heart. It’s an instant way to invite someone into a home, break down a barrier and, quite literally, feed a need.

With a food blogger and cooking teacher for a mother, Windermere High School junior Luke Malegni has grown up with the dinner table as the center of the home. The 17-year-old has enjoyed home-cooked meals his whole life, and rarely does his family find itself in a restaurant. Even when he was participating in the Orlando Area Rowing Society, Luke’s family would postpone dinner until practice was over — just so they could break bread together.

Moreover, since he was little, Luke’s mother, Stacie Archer, has instilled in him and his siblings a dedication to giving back to others. They often donated their time to various causes — especially during the holiday season. Last year, the family served food at a homeless shelter in the Parramore community.

And that’s why this year, Luke decided to launch a new program at his school. With the help of several campus groups, including the Student Government Association, he recruited his fellow Wolverines to join him in a casserole-making drive. It was an instant success — divided into 8-inch-by-8-inch baking pans. More than 70 students signed up for the cause and created more than 100 casseroles for One Heart for Women and Children, a local community food pantry that provides food assistance and support to those in need. Participating students brought the casseroles to Windermere High Nov. 20. The dishes then were transported in a refrigerated van to the College Parkbased pantry for distribution to families throughout the area.

In addition to the casseroles, Luke also approached grocery chain WinnDixie, which donated turkeys to accompany the homemade dishes.

“Thanksgiving has always been one of my favorite holidays,” Luke said.

ONE HEART FOR WOMEN & CHILDREN

“It’s all about the turkey and my family recipes.”

And it’s also the perfect time to give back.

“The right thing to do this year was to share my family’s recipes with school friends, so we could bring a homemade Thanksgiving to families who can’t afford to cook this holiday,” he said.

INSPIRATION

For about eight months, Luke has worked at the Lakeside Village Publix. And it was there he found the inspiration he needed for this year’s holiday service project.

“I’m bagging groceries, and I’ve seen the grocery prices going up,” he said. “A lot of people can’t afford groceries.”

Luke said statistics reported by the U.S. Department of Labor are staggering: Prices have soared 25% since 2019, the department reported. However, in cases of essentials such as eggs and milk, Luke knows that percentage is much higher.

After hurricanes Helene and Milton ravaged the Gulf Coast of Florida, many sought refuge in the Orlando area. Recently, at his job, Luke came face-to-face with a woman from Tampa whose house flooded. She and her family currently are living in a hotel and trying to stretch every dollar.

“There are a lot of people in need,” he said.

To the rescue: A ragtag team of teen cooks.

With his mother’s help, Luke created a menu of four different classic Thanksgiving side dishes — sweet potato casserole, cornbread, stuffing and green bean casserole. All the recipes are easy enough for even the most inexperienced cook.

With the menu in place, Luke set out to recruit as many of his peers as possible. He placed 30 flyers all around campus, and had teachers and administrators help to get the word out through the school’s online network.

Then, with the help of treasurer Chase Prevett, the Student Government Association assisted him in spreading the word even further.

Luke said there are families at Windermere High receiving assistance from One Heart, which made the organization a natural choice for beneficiary.

As a Christian, Luke said it is important for him to live his life as an example of Christ’s love.

“Jesus gave His life for us; He sacrificed Himself for us because He loves us,” he said. “I love giving back in any way I can.

“These are homemade dishes from the heart,” Luke said of the casseroles.

“It’s been really cool to see students and families doing this (with me).”

FUTURE PLANS Luke said he wants to bring the casserole program back to Windermere

ON THE MENU

Here are the four recipes students made as part of this project.

STUFFING INGREDIENTS

■ 1/2 stick unsalted butter, plus more for topping

■ 1 cup yellow diced onion

■ 1 cup diced celery

■ 1 apple, cored and finely chopped

■ 1 tsp. dried sage

METHOD

■ 1 tsp. dried thyme

■ Kosher salt and ground pepper to taste

■ 1 1/2 cups of chicken broth

■ 1 egg

■ 2 Tbsp. parsley

■ 10 slices of store-bought white bread, cubed

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Spray an 8x8-inch foil cake pan with nonstick spray.

2. Melt 1/2 stick of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions, celery, apple, sage and thyme. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes, then add the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.

3. Meanwhile, whisk together egg and parsley in a large bowl. Add the cubed bread, then put in the vegetable-broth mixture.

4. Transfer the stuffing mixture to the 8x8 pan, then dot with remaining butter. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes, then uncover and bake until golden brown, about 20 more minutes.

GREEN BEAN CASSEROLE

INGREDIENTS

■ 1 (10.5 oz) can of condensed

Cream of Mushroom Soup

■ 1/2 cup milk

■ 1 tsp. salt

METHOD

■ 1/2 tsp. black pepper

■ 2 cans French-cut green beans, drained

■ 1 1/3 cups of crispy fried onions, divided

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray an 8x8-inch foil cake pan with non-stick spray.

2. Meanwhile, in a large bowl, mix soup, milk, salt, black pepper, green beans and 2/3 cup of fried onions.

3. Pour into baking pan. (Place pan on a cooking sheet for support.) Bake uncovered for 25 minutes, or until mixture is bubbling. Remove from oven.

4. Stir bean mixture again. Sprinkle with 1/3 fried onions. Bake 5-10 minutes longer or until onions are golden brown.

SWEET POTATO CASSEROLE

INGREDIENTS

■ 2 Tbsp. unsalted butter, melted

■ 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed

■ 1/4 cup milk

■ 4 tablespoons brown sugar

■ 1 tsp. vanilla

METHOD

■ 1/2 tsp. kosher salt

■ 1 large egg

■ 1/4 cup flour

■ 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed

■ 2 Tbsp. unsalted butter, melted

■ 1 tsp. kosher salt

■ 1/4 cup chopped pecans

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray an 8x8-inch foil cake pan with non-stick spray.

2. Meanwhile, place sweet potatoes in a large saucepan. Add water until potatoes are completely submerged.

3. Bring to a boil over high heat, then lower the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook potatoes until tender, about 15 to 20 minutes.

4. Drain and cool. Mash sweet potatoes. In a large bowl, add mashed potatoes. Whisk together with butter, milk, brown sugar, vanilla, salt and egg. Transfer to foil cake pan.

5. For the topping: combine flour, brown sugar, butter and salt. Stir until moist and mixture clumps together. Add pecans. Spread mixture evenly over the top of the sweet potatoes. Bake 25-30 minutes.

“If

Design Editor / Jessica Eng, jeng@OrangeObserver.com News Editor / Annabelle Sikes, asikes@OrangeObserver.com

Community Editor / Amy Quesinberry Price, amyq@OrangeObserver.com

Sports Editor / Sam Albuquerque, sama@OrangeObserver.com

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Marketing and Sales Associate / Zari Gotay, zari@OrangeObserver.com

CONTACT

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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SEND US YOUR NEWS

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

STATEMENT OF OWNERSHIP

PUBLIC NOTICES

The West Orange Times meets the legal requirements to publish legal and public notices in Orange County per F.S. 50.011 USPS Periodicals Permit (USPS# 687-120)

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

METHOD 1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray an 8x8-inch foil cake pan with non-stick spray.

2. In a large bowl, combine the eggs, sour cream, melted butter, sugar and salt. Whisk until well combined.

3. Add the cornbread mix, whole corn kernels and creamed corn. Stir until combined.

4. Transfer batter into prepared foil pan. Bake for 55-60 minutes. The top and edges will be lightly brown, and the middle may be a little jiggly. That’s fine.

High next year and hopes to have even more students participating.

After high school, Luke hopes to attend Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to pursue a degree in computer science. However, even though those plans would

take him far from home, Luke expects to continue finding ways to give back to his community.

“I’ve always loved helping others; it makes me feel good,” he said. “If I have something to give, it’s definitely worth giving.”

Courtesy photo

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

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

Starke Lake Baptist Church

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

Victory Baptist Church & Christian Academy

1601 A.D. Mims Rd, Ocoee FL 34761 (407) 656-3097 www.VBCOCOEE.com

Sunday: 11AM & 6 PM Wednesday: 7 PM

EPISCOPAL

Church of the Messiah

241 N. Main St., Winter Garden

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

METHODIST

First United Methodist www.fumcwg.org 125 N. Lakeview Ave., Winter Garden (407) 656-1135

Services: 9 AM Traditional 10:45 AM Contemporary Also viewable on YouTube

Soiree for the senses

HWest foodies enjoyed their favorite event of the year as Horizon West Happenings’ hosted the 2024 Flavor Fest Nov. 9 at 14111 Shoreside Way, Winter Garden.

This annual community event celebrates the diverse culinary landscape of Horizon West. Community restaurants, caterers and food vendors showcased both classic favorites and unique dishes that represent the international element of the community.

Attendees also enjoyed hours of live music from Audio Exchange, local teen sensation Francesca Tarantino and trio Horizon’s Best.

MICHAEL ENG

28,

Francesca Tarantino performed a variety of classic rock and pop hits. Audio Exchange entertained attendees with several sets of music.

Horizon West Church had a huge presence at this year’s Flavor Fest.

Kelly’s Homemade Ice Cream had a steady line throughout the event.

Left: The Hash House A Go Go teamed served meat loaf sliders to hungry guests.

Father, daughter recognized as Kentucky Colonels

John C. Stewart Jr. and Taylor Ulman-Stewart Davis were honored for their significant accomplishments and community service.

AMY QUESINBERRY PRICE

EDITOR

COMMUNITY

The father-daughter duo of John C. Stewart Jr. and Taylor UlmanStewart Davis has been recognized for years of community service and has received the highest title of honor awarded by the governor of Kentucky.

Stewart and Davis both were honored with the prestigious title of Kentucky Colonel in recognition of their significant accomplishments and outstanding service to the community, state and nation.

Stewart is a longtime resident of Winter Garden, and Davis grew up in Winter Garden.

Stewart has dedicated his life to being a volunteer, bringing joy to children in need. As a member of Bahia Shriners in Orlando since 1997, he is known in Winter Garden for his bright red Shriner parade vehicle and two decades of service to the city’s Parks and Recreation Department in coordinating the city’s annual Christmas parade.

In 1998, Stewart founded the annual Bahia Shriners Children’s Christmas Day in Paisley. For 26 years, the event has provided thousands of underprivileged rural children with a festive family picnic, a visit with Santa, toys, shoes, clothing and essential hygiene products.

Many children in need of orthopedic and prosthetic services have been referred to the Shriners Children’s Hospital system because of this annual event.

Born in Hamilton County, Ohio, Stewart experienced a traumatic burn injury when he was 12 and received many weeks of treatment and care at the Shriners Children’s Hospital in Cincinnati. This inspired him to become a Shriner. He is past master of Mokanna Lodge No. 329 F&AM and member of the Scottish Rite and Royal Order of Jesters.

He has been recognized for his efforts through the years, and he has received numerous accolades and awards for his Shriner and Masonic philanthropic efforts, as chairman of the Bahia Shrine Circus, and in his construction mission teamwork with the First United Methodist Church of Winter Garden.

Now retired, Stewart’s career as a heavy-hit auto body technician was marked by his strong work ethic and dedication to helping his neighbors get back on the road safely.

Stewart was nominated by his fellow Shriners and awarded the high honor of Kentucky Colonel by Commonwealth Gov. Andy Beshear in recognition of his lifetime of service in Central Florida and his support to western Kentucky after devastating tornadoes in December 2021.

“I wasn’t aware that I had been nominated for Kentucky Colonel,” Stewart said. “The current potentate of Bahia Shrine, Mark Charlton, submitted my name for consideration. … The official award letter and certificate arrived in the mail from the governor’s office and I could not have been more surprised and honored. Bahia has several Kentucky Colonels in the fraternity, and it is humbling to be in their company.

“I grew up in southern Ohio, and my mother and her entire family were from the Louisville, Kentucky, area, so this honor was very personal and close to my heart,” he said.

Stewart said he nominated his daughter for Kentucky Colonel because of her years of hard work and what she’s now doing in the Kentucky community of Bowling Green.

“I’m so incredibly proud of Taylor and what she has accomplished,” Stewart said. “When Taylor relocated to Bowling Green, she already had so much volunteer experience. She jumped right in and is making a big difference in her new community. The tornado disaster was right after she and my son-in-law relocated to Kentucky, blocks from their home.”

Davis said her nomination came as a complete surprise.

“You can only be nominated by other Kentucky Colonels, and knowing how much my dad has built his life around philanthropy, it makes this recognition all the more special,” she said. “It’s such an honor! I’ve modeled much of my career and commitment to nonprofit work after my dad’s efforts, and the fact that he felt I’d done enough to be nominated is incredibly meaningful.

“While receiving recognition from the governor is a huge honor, having my dad be the one who nominated me makes it even more personal and special,” Davis said.

The 2003 graduate of West Orange High School has carved a path of notable professional and community achievements. After earning her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in advertising from the University of Florida, Taylor embarked on a career that has taken her from Florida to Wyoming, Denver and now Bowling Green, where she lives with her husband, Matt.

In her professional role, Davis serves as the targeted marketing director of strategic projects for Vitalant, one of the nation’s largest independent, nonprofit organizations focused exclusively on providing lifesaving blood products to nearly 1,000 hospitals across the United States. She also is an advertising professional-in-residence at Western Kentucky University, where she teaches in the School of Media and Communications.

Prior to her work with Vitalant, she was a fundraiser and marketer for Harbor House of Central Florida, one of the largest domestic violence nonprofits in the state.

Davis’ commitment to community service extends beyond her professional life. She continued her work to support survivors of domestic abuse by volunteering with Family Tree in Denver, recently serving on the board of directors and leading its Communications Council. She also is a founding board member of The Healing Collaborative, a Denverbased nonprofit providing cuttingedge mental health technologies to children and adults experiencing adverse effects of trauma. She sits on America’s Blood Center’s Communications and Partnerships Committee.

Since relocating to Bowling Green, Davis has served on the United Way of Southern Kentucky Kindergarten Readiness Allocations Committee and regularly volunteers with Hope House Ministries’ Addiction Recovery program. She was commissioned as a Kentucky

CELEBRATE THE HOLIDAYS WITH COMFORT AND SAVINGS: CHOOSE NATURAL GAS

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As the weather changes and temperatures drop, give yourself the gift of savings and peace of mind this holiday season. By choosing natural gas, you’re investing in an energy source that delivers reliability, efficiency and versatility – all while helping you save money on your utility bills. From keeping your home warm to making sure every meal is cooked to perfection; natural gas has got you covered.

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Colonel by Beshear in July.

Courtesy photos

John C. Stewart Jr., of Winter Garden, was honored with the title of Kentucky Colonel for giving back to his community.

Taylor Ulman-Stewart Davis, formerly of Winter Garden, was named a Kentucky Colonel for her work in her community.

Winter Garden considers eliminating recycling services

ANNABELLE SIKES

NEWS EDITOR

The Winter Garden City Commission at its Nov. 14 meeting approved unanimously the first reading of an ordinance that would amend the city code to eliminate the city’s requirement to provide recycling collection services.

City staff said they have been working on their “Six Sigma Recycling Project” for the last year to address the ongoing issues associated with recycling in Winter Garden.

Residents currently have recycling curbside services once per week.

“We do use temporary labor for this, which most people don’t know, and that is a big cost to the operation, and it also requires a lot of our city employees to put in copious amounts of overtime to cover the current demand,” said Nicole Smith, project manager in performance management for the city.

Smith said China stopped accepting recycled material from the United States in 2018, changing the business from profitable to break-even to costing the city because of high disposal fees. It costs about three times more to dump recycled goods versus general waste.

“A big factor right now that we’ve found is contamination in loads,” Smith said. “Contamination happens when people dispose of items that shouldn’t be in a recycling container, such as a greasy pizza box, plastic containers and children’s toys. … Despite efforts to educate residents using stickers directly on the cans, various articles in city publications and campaigns during events, contamination remains an issue and ruins any potential recyclable material.”

According to a report from the city that shows a five-year trend, the volume of recycled materials has decreased from 2019 to 2024 — from 3,018 tons in 2019-2020 to 2,480 tons in 2023-2024. Although the city has

increased in population by 10%, the city’s loads have decreased by 22%.

Smith said the city spends about $1,058,830 a year to run the recycling operation.

“There are many cities and counties in Florida and across the nation who have publicly eliminated their curbside program,” Smith said. “Some have gone to burning their trash for energy, some offer designated dropoff locations and others have simply chosen to take all waste to the landfill.”

Other known government agencies in Florida who have stopped their curbside program include Polk County, Clay County, Bradenton, Pembroke Pines, Davie, Mount Dora, Lady Lake and The Villages.

Smith said residents who wish to continue recycling can visit a local facility within the city’s boundaries that will accept cardboard, paper and aluminum, as well as additional facilities scattered throughout the Central Florida area.

“A lot of people are seeing this as just a financial opportunity for us, but we are not seeing it as that,” she said.

“We’re seeing it as we’re still dedicated to the environment, and we’re seeing that what we’re doing right now is not working. We say that we’re recycling, but we’re unfortunately not. About 7% of all waste collected by the city is recycled goods. Out of that 7%, Orange County said in 2019 about 85% of what they receive is contaminated. … Out of everything that we’re collecting, only 1% is actually being recycled.”

Smith said the goal is to make the change a true environmental initiative through the launch of the city’s Zero Waste Campaign.

“Reduce, reuse and recycle is in a specific order for a reason,” she said.

“To truly make an impact on the environment, we need to focus on reducing first, then reusing and then recycling last.”

A second reading of the ordinance is scheduled to take place Dec. 12.

ALCOHOL ORDINANCE APPROVED

The commission also approved the much-discussed alcohol ordinance.

Since the ordinance’s first reading approval at the City Commission’s Oct. 24 meeting, Planning Director Kelly Carson said the city made additional updates and adjustments to better reflect input from local business owners voicing concerns. The commission’s motion of approval at the meeting was made with staff’s recommended changes in addition to clarifying that calling the police to respond to an incident would not automatically constitute a “strike” against an establishment.

Staff’s recommended changes included clarifying the new hours of sale do not apply to package sales, adding the option for restaurants to provide an affidavit in lieu of POS receipts and percentages of alcohol vs. food sales, modifying the suspension of permit section to simplify the list of violations and clarify culpability, as well as other minor text changes required for consistency and clarification.

“We think this is going to encourage businesses to self-regulate; it takes the (burden) off the taxpayers to subsidize these issues; and it ensures we have a process so that we can make sure the city of Winter Garden remains charming, family-friendly, and ensures local business can survive and strive,” Carson said.

Throughout the process, some business owners have expressed concerns regarding the ordinance, including the long-term economic impact the ordinance could have on the area if approved.

Charles Roper, co-owner of Pilar’s Martini & Loft, said working with the city on the ordinance has been both productive and frustrating.

“Right now, the ordinance reads as if it would go into effect immediately, but I would rather have something saying it’s not going to be effective until Jan. 1 (2025) or until all of the businesses

IN OTHER NEWS

n The Winter Garden City Commission approved the second reading of a series of three ordinances pertaining to the annexation, amending of the Future Land Use Map and rezoning of .79 acres located at 1302 E. Fullers Cross Road.

n The city approved the second reading of an ordinance rezoning .5 acres located at 210 and 214 S. Dillard St. from Professional Office District to Planned Commercial District. This will permit the development of a mixed-use building comprising commercial uses on the bottom floors and residential uses on the second floor.

n Winter Garden approved the second reading of a series of three ordinances pertaining to the annexation, amending of the FLUM and rezoning of .26 acres located at 1253 N. West Crown Point Road.

n The City Commission approved the second reading of an ordinance relating to water and wastewater utilities, amending the city’s fee schedule to adopt revised water, sewer, reclaimed water, and irrigation utility rates and fees. The city is required to build a new wastewater treatment plant to meet state mandates. To fund the project, as well as operate and maintain the facility, city representatives said they need to increase the existing water and sewer rates. The proposed increase will be for the next five years, increasing Jan. 1, 2025, and the following years on Oct. 1.

have had a chance to apply and get through the application and appeals of this ordinance for late-night sales,” he said. “There’s things in here that are already regulated by DBPR (the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation), so we’re still curious as to why the city is trying to regulate things that are already regulated. … I wouldn’t agree that this process has been completely open and transparent. It has been difficult to get through this process, but we have gotten through it. So, thank you to staff for working with us on this.”

n City leaders approved the second reading of an ordinance amending the city’s code to create a new section covering natural gas installation. The new section would require all new platted subdivisions and replats of existing subdivisions of more than five lots to install natural gas lines and facilities if gas mains already are available or are located within 100 feet of the proposed subdivision.

n Winter Garden approved and ratified the proposed International Associate of Fire Fighters Local 4947 “A” Group Collective Bargaining Agreement for the period of Oct. 1 through Sept. 30, 2027.

n Commissioners approved the purchase of 391 Grove Court and authorized the city manager to sign a contract and hire contractors to complete renovations in the amount of $541,000 for purchase and $200,000 for renovations.

n The commission approved two binding lot combination agreements: one for 186 N. St. and one for 210 and 214 S. Dillard St.

n The City Commission approved two site plans: one for 603 Hennis Road (Winter Garden Industrial) and one for 16290 Marsh Road (Winter Garden Fire Station).

n City leaders approved waiving the formal procurement process and awarded a contract for installation of Avigilon security cameras and associated software to Iron Bow Technologies and Security 101 for $199,356.

The owner of Lucky Straws Boba Tea Cafe also spoke during the public comment portion of the meeting, saying the ordinance seems like an additional “gate-keeping opportunity” for the city.

Winter Garden resident Cindy Bodine worries about the ordinance shifting the alcohol issue to a different part of the area and then having local residents driving home drunk. Commissioners approved the ordinance, with the modification that the late-night sales change will not go into effect until Jan. 1, 2025.

Ahome in the Lakeshore Preserve community in Horizon West topped all West Orange-area residential real-estate transactions from Nov. 11 to 17.

The home at 15522 Shorebird Lane, Winter Garden, sold Nov. 12, for $2,430,000. Built in 2020, it has seven bedrooms, six-and-onehalf baths and 6,400 square feet. Days on market: 12. The sellers were represented by Carmen Gonzalez, Horizon West Realty LLC.

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

DR. PHILLIPS

PHILLIPS BAY CONDOMINIUMS

The townhouse at 7328 Cypress Grove Road, No. 73, Orlando, sold Nov. 15, for $450,000. Built in 2000, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,333 square feet. Days on market: 32.

PHILLIPS GROVE

The home at 7941 Wandering Way, Orlando, sold Nov. 15, for $1,235,000. Built in 2021, it has four bedrooms, four baths and 4,205 square feet. Days on market: 45.

SAND LAKE POINT

The home at 10151 Pointview Court, Orlando, sold Nov. 11, for $785,000. Built in 1994, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,355 square feet. Days on market: 55.

SANDPOINTE TOWNHOMES

The townhouse at 8230 Sandpoint Blvd., Orlando, sold Nov. 15, for $472,875. Built in 1990, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,598 square feet.

SHADOW BAY SPRINGS

The home at 5145 Spring Run Ave., Orlando, sold Nov. 15, for $488,000. Built in 1983, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,705 square feet. Days on market: 18.

WATERS EDGE BOCA POINTE AT TURTLE CREEK

The home at 10725 Boca Pointe Drive, Orlando, sold Nov. 14, for $1,099,000. Built in 1998, it has five bedrooms, five baths and 3,980 square feet. Days on market: One.

HORIZON WEST

ASHLIN PARK

The townhouse at 11812 Water Run Alley, Windermere, sold Nov. 12, for $420,000. Built in 2016, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 1,569 square feet. Days on market: 140.

EDENS HAMMOCK

The townhouse at 14036 Bridgewater Crossings Blvd., Windermere, sold Nov. 14, for $440,000. Built in 2006, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,629 square feet. Days on market: 94.

ENCLAVE AT HAMLIN

The home at 15281 Arcadia Bluff Loop, Winter Garden, sold Nov. 12, for $1,385,000. Built in 2020, it has five bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths and 4,115 square feet. Days on market: 80.

ENCORE AT OVATION

The home at 12200 Encore at Ovation Way, Winter Garden, sold Nov. 14, for $765,000. Built in 2020, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,346 square feet. Days on market: 16.

HAMLIN RIDGE

The townhouse at 16362 Hamlin Hills Road, Winter Garden, sold Nov. 11, for $434,990. Built in 2024, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 1,715 square feet.

The townhouse at 16410 Hamlin Hills Road, Winter Garden, sold Nov. 11, for $426,990. Built in 2024, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 1,715 square feet.

HARVEST AT OVATION

The home at 13092 Sunrise Harvest Drive, Winter Garden, sold Nov. 15, for $789,000. Built in 2024, it has four bedrooms, threeand-one-half baths and 3,041 square feet. Days on market: 268.

INDEPENDENCE/

SIGNATURE LAKES

The home at 6542 Point Hancock Drive, Winter Garden, sold Nov. 12, for $865,000. Built in 2011, it has five bedrooms, three baths and 3,452 square feet. Days on market: Six.

The home at 6109 Sunset Isle Drive, Winter Garden, sold Nov. 14, for $760,000. Built in 2014, it has six bedrooms, four baths and 4,468 square feet. Days on market: 114.

LAKESHORE PRESERVE

The home at 15522 Shorebird Lane, Winter Garden, sold Nov. 12, for $2,430,000. Built in 2020, it has seven bedrooms, six-and-one-half baths and 6,400 square feet. Days on market: 12.

The home at 15613 Sylvester Palm Drive, Winter Garden, sold Nov. 15, for $830,000. Built in 2018, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 2,306 square feet. Days on market: 150.

LAKEVIEW POINTE

The home at 7131 Spring Park Drive, Winter Garden, sold Nov. 15, for $509,000. Built in 2016, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 2,088 square feet. Days on market: 13.

LATHAM PARK NORTH

The home at 14197 Shocklach Drive, Winter Garden, sold Nov. 12, for $600,000. Built in 2019, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 2,395 square feet. Days on market: 36.

ORCHARD HILLS

The home at 4224 Oak Lodge Way, Winter Garden, sold Nov. 11, for $660,000. Built in 2015, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 3,009 square feet. Days on market: 59.

The home at 4984 Wildwood Pointe Road, Winter Garden, sold Nov. 13, for $530,000. Built in 2016, it has three bedrooms, two-andone-half baths and 1,997 square feet. Days on market: 22.

PEACHTREE PARK

The home at 8797 Peachtree Park Court, Windermere, sold Nov. 14, for $560,000. Built in 2017, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,710 square feet. Days on market: 30.

SERENADE AT OVATION

The home at 14211 Lanyard Way, Winter Garden, sold Nov. 12, for $800,000. Built in 2024, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 3,038 square feet. Days on market: 66.

WILLOWS ON THE LAKE

The home at 1775 Carolina Wren Drive, Ocoee, sold Nov. 12, for $550,000. Built in 2004, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,561 square feet.

SOUTHWEST ORANGE

CYPRESS ISLE

The home at 8832 Sunset Blvd., Orlando, sold Nov. 12, for $1,188,000. Built in 1990, it has four bedrooms, four-and-onehalf baths and 3,053 square feet. Days on market: 79.

WINDERMERE

ISLES OF WINDERMERE

The home at 12726 Windermere Isles Place, Windermere, sold Nov. 12, for $1,260,000. Built in 1997, it has five bedrooms, fourand-one-half baths and 4,135 square feet of living area. Days on market: 95.

LAKE DOWN COVE

STOREY GROVE

The townhouse at 10642 Words Drive, Winter Garden, sold Nov. 12, for $455,000. Built in 2023, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,992 square feet. Days on market: 21.

SUMMERLAKE

The home at 15235 Southern Martin St., Winter Garden, sold Nov. 15, for $620,000. Built in 2018, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,278 square feet. Days on market: 72.

SUMMERLAKE GROVES

The home at 15497 Murcott Blossom Blvd., Winter Garden, sold Nov. 13, for $482,000. Built in 2015, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,765 square feet. Days on market: 61.

VINEYARDS

The townhouse at 5843 Soter Lane, Windermere, sold Nov. 14, for $460,000. Built in 2019, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 2,002 square feet. Days on market: Five.

WATERMARK

The townhouse at 9767 Amber Chestnut Way, Winter Garden, sold Nov. 15, for $449,000. Built in 2019, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,789 square feet. Days on market: 46.

WEST LAKE HANCOCK ESTATES

The home at 14579 Black Quill Drive, Winter Garden, sold Nov. 13, for $770,000. Built in 2015, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,915 square feet. Days on market: Six.

The home at 7565 Bishop Square Drive, Winter Garden, sold Nov. 13, for $745,000. Built in 2016, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,914 square feet. Days on market: 34.

OCOEE

ARDEN PARK NORTH

The home at 1949 Mountain Pine St., Ocoee, sold Nov. 12, for $547,400. Built in 2020, it has five bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 3,385 square feet. Days on market: 32.

VILLAGES OF WESMERE

The home at 179 Spruce Pine Road, Ocoee, sold Nov. 15, for $505,575. Built in 2011, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,426 square feet. Days on market: 167.

The home at 2508 Hempel Cove Court, Windermere, sold Nov. 14, for $1,770,000. Built in 2008, it has five bedrooms, six baths and 5,478 square feet of living area. Days on market: Five.

WINDERMERE CLUB

The home at 21034 Lake Crescent Court, Windermere, sold Nov. 15, for $1,507,000. Built in 1990, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 3,425 square feet. Days on market: 18.

WINTER GARDEN

MCALLISTER LANDING

The home at 741 Caterpillar Run, Winter Garden, sold Nov. 12, for $730,100. Built in 2019, it has seven bedrooms, four baths and 4,700 square feet. Days on market: 50.

HERITAGE AT PLANT STREET

The townhouse at 647 E. Plant St., Winter Garden, sold Nov. 14, for $487,000. Built in 2018, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 1,688 square feet of living area. Days on market: 10.

STANTON ESTATES

The home at 252 Stanton Estates Circle, Winter Garden, sold Nov. 11, for $1,450,000. Built in 2019, it has five bedrooms, five baths and 4,532 square feet. Days on market: 85.

STONE CREEK

The home at 15326 Beamleigh Road, Winter Garden, sold Nov. 14, for $450,000. Built in 2001, it has three bedrooms, twoand-one-half baths and 1,828 square feet of living area. Days on market: 17.

STONEYBROOK WEST

The home at 13909 Eylewood Drive, Winter Garden, sold Nov. 15, for $643,000. Built in 2003, it has five bedrooms, three baths and 3,041 square feet. Days on market: Two.

The home at 2427 Balforn Tower Way, Winter Garden, sold Nov. 15, for $520,000. Built in 2008, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,020 square feet. Days on market: 26.

TILDEN PLACE

The home at 14384 Wabasso Loop, Winter Garden, sold Nov. 12, for $839,000. Built in 2022, it has five bedrooms, three baths and 3,562 square feet. Days on market: Seven.

The home at 15522 Shorebird Lane, Winter Garden, sold Nov. 12, for $2,430,000. The Santa Bella model, built by Toll Brothers, is the largest home offered in Lakeshore Preserve. The sellers were represented by Carmen Gonzalez, Horizon West Realty LLC.

Courtesy photo

The home at 1775 Carolina Wren Drive, Ocoee, sold Nov. 12, for $550,000. It was the largest transaction in Ocoee from Nov. 11 to 17. The sellers were represented by Ahmad Hassan, Compass Florida LLC. Courtesy photo

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SPORTS

HIGH 5

1After four seasons as head coach and 10 overall on the coaching staff, Andre Walker is no longer the Foundation Academy football coach.

“Foundation Academy appreciates Coach Walker’s time, energy and effort in leading the football program,” Foundation Athletics Director Robert East said. “Change is seldom easy. Ecclesiastes 3:1 may put this in perspective best, ‘There is an occasion for everything and a time for every activity under heaven.’ The changing landscape of athletics at the high school level requires schools and programs to be tremendously agile while remaining true to the school’s mission.” Walker had a record of 25-15 as head coach and never led the Lions to a losing season.

“I think we were on two separate paths,” Walker said. “The school wanted leadership to go in a different direction, and I thought we had come to a form of compromise, and apparently, it wasn’t so.”

2

Following sanctions against its football team, which saw the forfeiture of all 2024 wins and a twoyear postseason ban, The First Academy football coach, Jeff Conaway, will no longer serve as the school’s athletics director, according to a letter sent out to TFA families by Head of School Dr. Steve Whitaker. Conaway will remain the Royals football coach.

“Our return to a leader who serves as full-time AD allows our coaches to dedicate themselves to their teams fully and positions the AD to integrate the school’s mission into each sport, working closely with the FHSAA and monitoring steady growth across all girls’ and boys’ sports at all grade levels,” Whitaker wrote TFA’s former AD Will Cohen will serve as the interim while the school searches for a replacement.

3

West Orange star defensive back Ivan Taylor — son of Super Bowl champion Ike Taylor — has flipped his college commitment from Michigan to Alabama, he announced on X. “(I’m) happy to announce my commitment to the University of Alabama,” Taylor wrote. “I’m blessed for the opportunity, and I look forward to playing for Coach (Kalen) DeBoer and his staff. Roll Tide!”

4Foundation Academy softball player Riley Winters has announced her commitment to Belmont University, becoming the program’s second-ever Division I commit. The junior will join forces with current Lions senior Lizzie Ozim, who recently signed her National Letter of Intent with Belmont. The two future Bruins led the Lions last season in batting average, hits and runs scored.

5

A pair of area boys soccer coaches reached milestone wins marks in the early portion of the 2024-25 season. After a 2-0 win over Boone High, Ocoee High coach Peter Moore claimed his 200th career win as the Knights’ head coach, while Windermere Prep’s Jonathan Griffiths won his 100th game as the Lakers’ coach — a 2-0 home win over Polk Christian Prep.

GAME OF THE WEEK: FHSAA CLASS 7A, REGION 2 SEMIFINALS

West Orange (9-2) at Plant City (9-2)

Senior standard

Since the spring, West Orange High football coach Geno Thompson’s been raving about his seniors. Now, with a 9-2 record and a chance to make a playoff run, we are seeing why.

SAM ALBUQUERQUE SPORTS EDITOR

Since spring football, West Orange High football coach Geno Thompson has been raving about his team to anyone who would listen — particularly singing the praises of his senior class. However, coming off of a 3-7 season in 2023 and significant roster turnover made it easy to dismiss or be skeptical of Thompson’s prognostications before the season by chalking it up to coach speak or trying to have a positive attitude.

FHSAA CLASS 7A REGIONAL SEMIFINAL SCHEDULE n 7:30 p.m. West Orange (9-2) at Plant City (9-2) n 7:30 p.m. Dr. Phillips (10-1) vs. Jupiter (10-1)

Fast-forward to now, and, well, it wasn’t coach speak. Thompson was right. His seniors are special, and because of their collective bond, trust and leadership, this group has been the driving force behind the Warriors’ 9-2 record, district championship and what they hope is the early stages of a deep playoff run.

Windermere, West Orange boys defend regional crowns

Defending boys soccer region champions, Windermere and West Orange, clashed in an early season match between last year’s top West, Southwest Orange teams.

SAM ALBUQUERQUE SPORTS EDITOR

The 2024-25 high school boys soccer season has kicked off in West Orange and Southwest Orange, and two of the area’s top teams from last season — defending Class 7A, Region 2 champions Windermere High and 7A state runner-up West Orange High — meet on the pitch Nov. 18 for what could be a playoff preview. Although it may be hard to gauge just how good each of these two teams are this early in the season, this

matchup, during which the Wolverines (5-0) topped the Warriors (1-1) by a score of 8-2, provides a valuable data point for the two teams and their coaches. “One thing I’ve learned in my time coaching is not to take these early-season games as seriously as I would a January game,” Windermere coach Lou Romao said. “January is really when you should be hitting your peak, and focusing on improving is what we’re doing now. Obvi-

“I’ve said it from the beginning of the season: I had no idea what our record was going to be by the end of the season, but I knew this was going to be a fun year because of the senior leadership on this team,” Thompson

From never being able to play baseball again to college signee, Parker Hohnstock’s long journey has him ready to lead West Orange baseball in his senior season. Page 2B.

Sam Albuquerque

West Orange football’s senior leaders — including Logan Hartman, left, Mason Gifford, Bryson Furrey, coach Geno Thompson, Ivan Taylor, Nico Marti and Ryne Brown — have been key to the Warriors’ 2024 success.

Sam Albuquerque

Senior Logan Hartman (No. 22) has played a pivotal role on and off the field this season for the Warriors’ defensive front.

Last season, West Orange High baseball’s Parker Hohnstock was a key member of the Warriors’ pitching staff, which led the team to a 17-9 record. As a junior, the right-handed pitcher threw 37.1 innings for the Warriors, striking out 50 batters — a team-high — while allowing 14 earned runs for an ERA of 2.62 and holding opposing batters to a .209 average.

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK Parker Hohnstock

Just looking at the numbers, anyone could tell that the St. Leo University baseball signee’s junior season was impressive, but when you consider the fact a doctor told Hohnstock there was a chance he would not be able to walk normally again (let alone play baseball) following a longboarding accident, the senior’s journey to this point is incredible.

Following surgery for a broken pelvis and detached hamstring in December 2021, Hohnstock faced a grueling recovery process that started with him in a leg brace, unable to walk for four months. This moment, though difficult, became pivotal in his journey. For the next nine to 10 months, Hohnstock dedicated himself fully to the recovery process. Nearly a year later, he was able to step onto the mound again and do what he loves: pitch.

How does it feel to be named Athlete of the Week?

It is an honor to be named the Athletic of the Week … it means a lot. I feel very blessed, so thank you for the honor!

What do you like the most about baseball?

Dominating the competition and the adrenaline that it gives me.

What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned from playing sports?

To achieve what you want, you must be disciplined and not take your time playing for granted; it can be taken away in a second.

What are you most excited about for your senior season?

I am looking forward to winning a district title for West Orange, and I’m excited about continuing my development to be the best pitcher I can be.

How does it feel to know you’re

It feels great! It is everything I have worked for the last few years. I have always dreamed as a kid of playing college baseball.

Who is your favorite athlete? Mike Trout has been my favorite player since I started playing baseball as a kid.

What is your go-to pre-game meal?

Chicken, rice and two energy drinks.

What is your go-to pre-game hype song?

“Faneto” by Chief Keef.

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

Knife, tent and a flare gun. The knife would be for finding food and protecting myself. The tent is for shelter, and the flare gun is so I can send out for help so I can be rescued.

If you could have dinner with one person — dead or alive — who would it be? Why?

My grandpa, PePaw. I miss him; he passed away a few months ago. I would tell him what I have been able to accomplish since he has been gone.

If you could go back in time to a specific period in history, when and where would you go? Why?

Back when Jesus was alive, so I could experience my faith in realtime. It would be cool to be present when Jesus was a living person and experience it firsthand.

Looking back, what piece of advice would you give your younger self?

Work harder, definitely! Your dreams are closer than you think.

If you could ask your future self a question, what would it be?  In the end, did everything work out the way you wanted?

If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why? The ability to grant wishes. You can do anything you desire with

If you could travel to three places in the world, where would you go Greece, because of its beauty, the blue water and white houses. Italy for its food and culture. Maldives for the beauty of the water, and it’s a great vacation spot.

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

I would be a Hawk. I could fly around and get a bird’s eye view of the world.

What is your most controversial food take?

Canned tuna and relish are pretty good

Does pineapple belong on

Absolutely not!  — SAM ALBUQUERQUE

Senior leadership key to West Orange’s postseason success

CONTINUED

said. “It’s probably one of the best seasons I’ve ever had coaching, because this group has made football fun. Obviously, as a head coach, you still have to deal with a bunch of different headaches and things of that nature, but it’s been a lot less this year — and I’m sure that has to do with winning — but also I think its because of how they carry themselves on a day-to-day basis. All year, I’ve heard nothing but praise about this senior class and the team as a whole from the teachers, faculty and the community about how they carry themselves.”

OFF-FIELD BROTHERHOOD, ON-FIELD SUCCESS

Some of the most important characteristics of successful teams are chemistry, camaraderie and communication. These are also some of the most difficult characteristics to cultivate because they’re not microwavable. It takes an organic process to develop these things, and that takes a long time.

Luckily for Thompson, a lot of these seniors have been growing into a tight-knit group since their Pop Warner days.

“These guys just love (one another); that’s what makes them special,” Thompson said. “For the most part, they’ve been playing together since they were in the West Orange Bob-

cats in like the third or fourth grade, so they’ve been growing together since they were kids. … We always talk about teams that have left a legacy here, (they) are the ones who have that camaraderie, the teams that stick together, that hang out all the time, and that’s the kind of relationship these guys have with (one another). That sort of history and camaraderie is what makes it easy for them to sacrifice for (one another), and that’s been the case with this group. Pretty much since January, most of the seniors have independently been organizing and doing 5 a.m. or even 4 a.m. workouts.”

One of the seniors leading those workouts — and hosting them at his family’s home gym — is senior defensive back and Alabama commit Ivan Taylor. From his perspective, these early morning sessions have been crucial to the success West Orange has had this season.

“This team is probably the most hard-working group that I’ve been around,” Taylor said. “A lot of our seniors will go work out early in the morning or late at night — just do things a lot of other people wouldn’t do. That sort of commitment from my teammates has really motivated me to work even harder. Everyone has those days where you don’t want to do it, but because my guys are always there, I have to get up and put in the work for them. This

offseason was really good for us — not only in terms of the hard work we put in but we really got closer as a team. … I would say this class of seniors is so special because of our bond. We’re such a tight-knit group. We workout together, we eat together. There are a lot of things that go into making a great team, but I think having that special bond is one of the most important.” Ultimately, that bond does more than push teammates to sacrifice for each other.

“On the field, communication and trust are two of the biggest things you need to be successful,” Taylor said. “If I’m able to trust my teammate with doing something with my full heart, that’s all I need. I just need to trust the person lining up next to me, and that is easy when that person is your brother.”

AND LEGACY

LEADERSHIP

Despite having talented seniors throughout its position groups, this West Orange team has plenty of underclassmen who play significant roles. One of the other aspects that makes this senior group special is their ability to lead the team and understand the importance their leadership today will have on the present and future of the program.

“Average teams are those where

Wolverines, Warriors meet in early-season clash

ously, we’re going to look at what we’re doing and what they can do. They’re going to do the same, and we’ll see where we stand at the moment. But again, we can’t take the result of this game tonight as seriously. Just look at last year; we beat them 6-1 in our first game, then 2-1 in our second matchup. West Orange, of course, got better as the season went on. They kept getting better and went all the way to states. Winning tonight does not necessarily mean you’re going to be better than them later in the season.”

West Orange coach Scott Fisher echoed Romao’s sentiments and doubled down on the philosophy of using a tough schedule to prepare your team for the postseason.

“If you come out and play a lot of really weak teams, the problems we may have as a team never show up,” Fisher said. “But when you play good teams, those issues are exposed and quickly become glaring, which then allows us as coaches to address them, and that’s all we are trying to take away from these early-season games against tough opponents. Both Lou and I know that nobody’s winning a championship in game two or game three or game four. Just look at last year; we were pretty bad at the beginning of the season. But seeing that early on allowed us to address a lot of things, and then we really started to peak at the right time. So again, nobody’s winning championships now, but it’s good to play these games so you can start to address the problems that you’re going to have later in the season. Right now, it’s all about iron sharpening iron.”

SEASON STARTING POINT

As both teams and their coaching staffs continue to use the early portion of the regular season to iron out the wrinkles of their respective

approaches, with training camp, preseason and a few games under their belts, an early season identity has begun to form for each side.

Fans of boys high school soccer in the area surely will be wondering what Romao’s and Fisher’s early impressions of their squads are and what the two coaches think fans should be on the lookout for in 24-25. For the Wolverines, Romao’s side will be a mixture of youth and experience, which should provide similar results: wins.

“The biggest difference with this year’s squad compared to last season is that our attackers are all young, but the defenders are all pretty much seniors, so we have a lot of leadership coming from the back line,” Romao said. “Despite the youth up top, I don’t feel like this team is behind where last year’s team was at this point. I think they’re just as good, and honestly, I think they could actually be better than last year, because we have more options in attack. We have very skilled players in the middle (who) can control the pace of the game and great finishers (who) can put the ball in the back of the net. I think that combination could end up being more dangerous, because … other teams (will) need to spread their focus on stopping multiple players, not just looking at one player.”

Fisher will focus on helping his West Orange side develop chemistry and solidifying a defensive line that lost three of four starters from last season.

“Last season’s team had played together for a year, so they had a base understanding of how they played and where we should play everyone,” he said. “This year, we have a lot of guys (who) haven’t played together, so developing that chemistry and finding the right combination of players is going to be big for us. Until we find that, it’s

going to be like the first half of our last game against Timber Creek. It was bad soccer — all because our guys are still getting used to playing together. It’s going to take a little work for us to progress, for sure. But every time they come out here to play, and especially against quality competition, hopefully, they’ll get more and more used to playing with (one another).”

Both West Orange and Windermere will be off for the week of Thanksgiving before returning to the pitch in December. The Wolverines will be at Lake Mary High Monday, Dec. 2, and the Warriors will host rivals Ocoee High Tuesday, Dec. 3.

Sam Albuquerque Windermere junior Andres Grisanti (No. 17) lined up a header in the Wolverines’ 8-2 win over West Orange.

the coaches lead; great teams are the ones that are player-led,” Thompson said. “That, to me, is always the biggest thing: Getting players to buy into the process of wanting to be great and understanding that to do that, you have to take ownership. We, as coaches, can say whatever we want until we’re blue in the face, and a lot of times they don’t grasp that message right away. But when there are leaders among your players who are echoing that message you’re giving your team and they’re reinforcing the message, it makes it a lot easier to have success.”

That’s what this group has done.

“Because most of us grew up playing with (one another), our relationships with this program goes beyond football,” senior receiver Ryne Brown said. “We’re not just a team; we’re like a family. And because we’ve created that special bond, when it comes to football, we’re able to take accountability with each other and be leaders. Without that leadership, we can’t be a good team. We can’t be a good team without that bond. It just strengthens everything we do.”

As the Warriors prepare to continue their run in the playoffs, these seniors know their time is winding down, and regardless of how the season ends, it’s undeniable the impact these players have made on the program.

“I’m sure when this season ends, it’ll be tear-filled and emotional because of how great this group is,” Thompson said. “I’m just grateful for everything they’ve given to this program, the kind of dedication they put into this. … They’re the group that’s resurrected this program and brought it back to where it needs to be and I can’t say enough good things about these guys.”

But with the possibility of playing four more games together, assuming the Warriors reach the state championship, this is a moment to savor for this senior class.

“This season has meant everything to me,” senior linebacker Bryson Furrey said. “Playing with my brothers is the best part of football, and it’s just been great. If we keep winning and are able to keep playing together, that would be amazing, and that’s the goal. So, we’re just locking in each day for the chance to keep fighting next to each other for another week.”

FRIDAY, NOV. 15

CLASS 7A, REGION 3 QUARTERFINALS

No. 2 Dr. Phillips (10-1), 49

No. 7 Tohopekaliga (6-5), 21

HIGHLIGHTS: With a balanced offensive attack, Dr. Phillips High football took care of business from the kickoff in the opening round of the FHSAA Class 7A playoffs at Bill Spoone Stadium against Tohopekaliga High.

“We started out really fast,” said Panthers coach Rodney Wells. “We kicked off to them, and our defense got a three-and-out on that first drive, then our offense came out and scored. That was a lot of momentum going our way. Anytime regular season or playoffs that you can get a three-and-out and your offense gets the ball and scores to start the game, it’s a good thing.”

The high-flying DP attack — led by quarterback Stanley AndersonLofton and the Panthers’ trio of running backs; Zion Matthews, Amari Major and Kenorris White — didn’t stop the scoring train; the area’s most potent offense kept rolling all night and pushed the game to a running clock by the third quarter.

“We just continued to score offensively, through the game,” Wells said.

“We had short fields, and Stanley made some plays with his arms. I think he had three passing touchdowns and two rushing touchdowns ... he did a great job tonight. We had one turnover ... but other than that, it was clean on offense. We were able to make it a running clock by the third when we got it 49-14. ... Overall, I was very excited. Anytime you can score 49 points, that’s a good night.”

Despite the quality of the performance, Wells still saw room for improvement — especially on defense.

“With their passing attack and their tempo, it gave us some problems in the first half,” he said.

“We weren’t getting lined up quick enough; the defense wasn’t communicating. We had two, maybe three, penalties that gave them another 30 yards, which helped them score on that drive. ... We just had too many penalties on defense; we need to clean that up.” UP NEXT: Dr. Phillips, as the No.

2 seed in Region 3, will host its regional semifinal matchup against No. 3 Jupiter High (10-1) — which shut out Treasure Coast High in its first-round game — at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 22.

CLASS 7A, REGION 2 QUARTERFINALS

NO. 3 WEST ORANGE (9-2), 20 NO. 6 APOPKA (4-6), 19

HIGHLIGHTS: On the back of three touchdowns by quarterback Brian Dillard and a gritty performance by its defensive front, West Orange High football held on to beat the Apopka Blue Darters by one point at Raymond Screws Field.

“It was a very gutsy win,” said Warriors coach Geno Thompson after the game. “Hats off to Jeff (Rolson) over there; they did a phenomenal job. Whenever you play a team twice, it’s very difficult, because you don’t know what they’re going to come out in. That was the case tonight. They didn’t do anything they did on film, so that made it very difficult to prepare.”

After trading scores to open the game, the West Orange offense took control and extended its lead over Apopka to 20-6 by the 4:36 mark in the third quarter. Dillard’s three touchdowns — two on the

LOCAL MOTION

This annual guide provides important information about the West Orange communities of Winter Garden, Oakland, Ocoee, Dr. Phillips, Windermere, Gotha and Horizon West including the history, area maps, hospitals, utility companies and local leaders.

Including:

• History of each municipality, interviews with local leaders and a calendar of can’t-miss events

• Round-up of local activities and ways to get involved

• Suggestions for date nights and family weekend excursions for every budget

A complete guide to public, private and charter schools, including preschools and options for students with special needs

whole game, constantly hitting the Blue Darters QB. The West Orange defense was able to make Davison uncomfortable enough in the fourth quarter to stop the comeback attempt just short.

UP NEXT: West Orange will be on the road in the regional semifinals, as it heads an hour west to take on the No. 2 Raiders of Plant City High (9-2) — and its potent offensive attack led by three-star senior quarterback and Coastal Carolina commit Chris Denson — at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 22.

MONDAY, NOV. 18

SSAA CLASS 1A

CHAMPIONSHIP GAME

LEGACY CHARTER (5-6), 12 CEDAR CREEK CHRISTIAN (5-6), 8

OBSERVER 8, PLAYOFFS A weekly power ranking of the eight best football programs in West, Southwest Orange County.

1. Dr. Phillips (10-1)

2. West Orange (9-2)

3. Windermere (10-0)

4. Ocoee (5-5)

5. Olympia (4-6)

6. Foundation Academy (5-5)

7. Legacy Charter (5-6)

8. Lake Buena Vista (3-7)

ground and a passing TD to receiver Ryne Brown — led the Warriors’ run of 20 unanswered points.

However, despite taking control in the first three quarters, the fourth quarter saw the Blue Darters take the momentum back and force West Orange up against the wall; especially when Apopka’s junior QB Tyson Davison got out of the pocket and extended plays. Although Davison was able to use his legs to make key plays down the stretch, the Warriors defensive front — led by senior Logan Hartman and freshman Matheus Kaminski Cordeiro — practically lived in the Apopka backfield the

HIGHLIGHTS: After a mix-up with game officials postponed this contest to Nov. 18 and moved it from Ocoee to the Jacksonville-based school, Legacy went on the road and brought home the hardware in a defensive battle, topping Cedar Creek, 12-8, and finishing its season on a four-game winning streak.

“I can’t say enough about the willingness and poise these boys played with,” Legacy coach Zachary Fox said. “This game came down to the wire, and they never broke. Huge shout-out to the coaching staff for a great game on both sides of the ball. To go from being 0-4 to finishing the season 4-0 with a championship, you can’t write this. All glory to the man above.”

Despite the Eagles’ storybook turnaround on the field, the championship match was more gritty defensive standoff than a fairy tale. Thanks to these two defenses, the game was scoreless through the first three quarters, before the Eagles broke through early in the fourth on a Jake Threadgill touchdown pass to Ryan Rushing.

After Cedar Creek responded with a TD of its own, the Eagles’ offense was able to march down the field and score the last points of the game; a short run by senior Mario Gomez, and on the back of its defense — which iced the win with a fourth-down stop in the final minute of the game — Legacy ran out the clock to take home the 1A crown.

Tyler Silk, Dr. Phillips High yearbook staff

Dr. Phillips captains Maliki Wright, left, Cam Dixon, Mykel Calixte and Stanley Anderson-Lofton took the field for the coin toss.

DANIELLE SMITH

DILLARD STREET ELEMENTARY

Danielle Smith, a first-grade teacher at Dillard Street Elementary School, has been named Teacher of the Year at DSES and is a finalist for Orange County Public Schools Teacher of the Year. Last year, she won the school’s Hero Teacher Award. Smith hosts an afterschool Science Club, along with Shelly Branch, for kindergarten through second-grade students. The two started the club last year with funding from the local DAR chapter. This year, she applied for and received the Duke Energy — Math, Science and Energy Education grant to bring coding with Blue Bots, circuit kits and 3D pens to the club.

What brought you to your school?

I moved to the area four years ago from Southwest Florida, where I had taught. I originally started at Summerlake Elementary School in OCPS, and when the opportunity came up to work closer to home, I was very excited about it. I love that I can drive my golf cart to work, and because Dillard Street Elementary is my zoned school, my two sons can ride along with me. It is wonderful to share this educational experience with my children.

What do you love most about your school?

This school is my extended family. I feel supported by everyone I work with, making it an enjoyable place to work and a safe space for me to experiment and grow in my profession. The school also expands this feeling of family to the entire school community: The entire staff takes the time to get to know every student and their families in a way that builds positive relationships.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

One rewarding part of my job is growing readers and, hopefully,

REPORT CARD

POSITION: First-grade teacher TIME AT SCHOOL: Three years

lifelong learners. Watching students go from not knowing any letters or sounds to understanding the written word is an amazing experience. There is nothing like seeing their eyes light up and their faces glow when they realize they have become a reader.

Who influences you?

I am lucky to have had so many positive influences in my life. From my early days as a teacher at Deep Creek Elementary School in Southwest Florida, I had wonderful mentors who guided and supported me. In every school in which I have worked, I have wonderful and inspiring teachers from whom I have learned valuable lessons. One of OCPS’ core values is collaboration, and I feel that is a huge influence and contributes to my success here. So many educators and staff at OCPS have willingly extended their help and support. I hope that whether I have worked with fellow colleagues for years or have just had the opportunity to be with them during a PD experience, I have been able to reciprocate the positive support I have felt. What do you like to do in your spare time?

Nothing gives me more joy than spending time with my family! My sons are all involved in baseball, and I love watching them play. I also enjoy going on trips to Disney, gardening, being in nature, walking outside, and traveling to the mountains with my husband and sons.

Who was your favorite teacher in school and why?

My favorite teacher is my mother, who was a reading teacher for almost 30 years. The way she loves her students, her passion for their success and her gift of teaching others to read is an inspiration. I remember being a staff kid being at school with her, and the smell of the copy room, the die cuts, and the smell of paper and books. It brings me back to my childhood. What is your favorite children’s book and why?

I could never pick one, because it really depends upon what I am experiencing and feeling! Perhaps I could give you a book each week? Right now, our favorite book as a class for laughs is “I Say Ooh You Say Aah” by John Kane. I love everything by Mo Willems, but “We Are Growing!” is always a fun first-grade read. Lastly, because it is fall, I would recommend “Scarecrow” by Cynthia Rylant.

If you could only listen to three bands or artists, who would they be and why?

While I do love all music genres, country brings me back to when I rode horses in my younger years. I also love anything I can sing along with, such as the Guardians of the Galaxy Awesome Mix and Taylor Swift.

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

My best friend in school was Stephanie Tronnes. At the time, we not only looked alike, but we also had a lot in common. We were both in 4-H and loved horses and fashion. We had the best time together. My lifelong best friends have always been my two sisters. They are my constant sounding boards, and I am so grateful to have them. Now that we are grown with families of our own, we have children who are close in age. It’s the best watching the cousins grow up together.

— AMY QUESINBERRY PRICE

OBSERVER SCHOOL ZONE

Atwater Bay celebrates dedication

Students, teachers, parents, Orange County Public Schools administrators and others gathered in the cafetorium of Atwater Bay Elementary School Nov. 6 to celebrate the dedication of the new school in Horizon West.

The Horizon High School JROTC presented the colors, and the school’s Sing-Rays Chorus sang the national anthem and the new Atwater Bay school song. Speakers included Principal Matt Hendricks, outgoing School Board District 4 Member Pam Gould and OCPS superintendent Dr. Maria F. Vazquez.

Several students helped cut the ribbon to officially dedicate the school. Afterward, a reception was held in the media center.

— AMY QUESINBERRY PRICE

The Atwater Bay Elementary chorus sang the national anthem and the new school song.

Dr. Rahim Jones, OCPS chief of elementary schools, left, and outgoing School Board District 4 Member Pam Gould assisted Atwater Bay Elementary students Noah Miller, left, and Mila Ormiston during the ribbon-cutting ceremony.

Left: Dr. Maria F. Vazquez, Orange County Public Schools superintendent, presented a ceremonial key to Atwater Bay Principal Matt Hendricks.

Hamlin Elementary School leader named state’s principal of the year

Principal Dr. Angela Murphy-Osborne traveled to Washington, D.C., with her 89-year-old mother and childhood friend to accept the honor.

ANNABELLE SIKES

NEWS EDITOR

For the second time, Hamlin Elementary School Principal Angela Murphy-Osborne has been named principal of the year for Florida by the National Association of Elementary School Principals.

Murphy-Osborne is only one of two principals to receive the honor twice, and she is the only one to receive the honor twice in the same state.

She traveled in October to Washington, D.C., accompanied by her 89-year-old mother, Kathy Murphy, and childhood friend Janet Lanham, to accept the honor with 36 other National Distinguished Principals.

“It’s very humbling to receive this honor,” Murphy-Osborne said. “I put a lot into my work, and I love what I do and being a principal. Every day, I wake up feeling very blessed to be a principal. I honestly never thought I would be a principal, because I had a pretty difficult time in school growing up. Instead, that experience inspired me on this journey to ensure other children are provided with the tools they need to succeed in a comfortable and safe environment.”

JOURNEY

AN UNFORGETTABLE

NAESP’s NDP program honors outstanding elementary and middlelevel principals who ensure children acquire a sound foundation for lifelong learning and achievement. Each year, NAESP congratulates principals from across the nation and U.S. overseas schools for their exemplary achievements.

Principal honorees are selected by NAESP state affiliates and by committees representing private and overseas schools. Criteria for selection of the principals require the honorees are active principals of schools

where programs are designed to meet the academic and social needs of all students and where there are firmly established community ties with parents and local business organizations.

This year, the organization recognized 37 NDPs: Thirty-five public school principals — one pre-K or kindergarten, 29 elementary, three middle-level and two K-8 — one representing the U.S. Department of State Overseas Schools and one representing the U.S. Department of Defense Education Activity.

The 2024 class of NDPs was honored in Washington, D.C., and the trip culminated with an awards banquet Oct. 11.

“The importance of principal leadership has never been more important, as schools and communities continue to recover from the challenges of the past few years,” NAESP

Executive Director Dr. L. Earl Franks said. “That is why we are so proud to recognize the outstanding leadership of the 2024 class of NAESP NDPs. These principals lead highly successful learning communities and serve as examples of excellence for all school leaders.”

During her visit to D.C., MurphyOsborne joined other principals from their winning states for a series of events, including tours of the White House, the monuments and the Department of Education, as well as attended several training sessions. Each winner also was asked to give a three-minute speech about themselves and their educational experience.

“It was really interesting learning from all the different principals about their experiences and the different structures and guidelines in each of their states,” she said. “Everyone was so different, but also we all shared a big commonality in our love for edu-

cation. We all love our kids, and we all want a better future for them. We also all shared a love for our staff, who I know have become my family here at Hamlin Elementary.”

Murphy-Osborne said receiving the award the second time meant even more than the first.

“My mother got to accompany me the second time — she had a stroke seven years ago, and I help take care of her and my disabled husband, who also had a stroke around the same time,” she said. “I didn’t have the personal challenges I do now as a firsttime winner. So, getting the honor the second time — despite all of the challenges I have in my life— meant more. I knew I won several months ago, and I was just asking God to please let

my mother live long enough to go on this trip with me. I took her, and she was actually the life of the party. The principals (who) were there and their husbands were dancing with my mom in her wheelchair, and the band came down and sang to her. She had the best time.”

‘HAMLIN ELEMENTARY IS SPECIAL’

Murphy-Osborne grew up in West Virginia with her parents and her foster siblings — some of whom have special needs. She said one of her favorite activities growing up was playing school with her foster brothers and sisters. She came from humble beginnings, with her father working as a coal miner and her mother working in a hospi-

tal. She said her parents worked hard to get herself and her siblings through college.

Murphy-Osborne received her special-education degree from Lock Haven University in Pennsylvania and went on to Nova University, where she received her master’s and doctoral degrees. She started as a teacher in Pennsylvania before moving to Florida. She served as a dean at Pine Hills Elementary School and later became assistant principal at Magnolia School.

She previously served as principal of Palmetto Elementary School for two years and Spring Lake Elementary School for 10.

She worked in Title 1 schools — schools in which children from lowincome families make up at least 40% of enrollment — for 24 years. In only one academic year, Murphy-Osborne helped a school that had earned an “F” letter grade achieve “A” status. She helped to open Independence Elementary School in 2015 and served as its principal for seven years before helping to open Hamlin Elementary in August 2022 in Horizon West. Hamlin Elementary helped to relieve Water Spring and Whispering Oak elementary schools.

“Hamlin Elementary is special,” she said. “There’s one major difference between this school and the other schools I’ve served at, and that’s that if parents have an issue or there’s a situation that comes up that they’re not necessarily happy with, they give a solution to the problem or they come and talk with you. They’re gentle in the way they approach any situation they bring up. It’s a wonderful community here, where we work together every single day to help make a difference. I feel like everything we do here is above and beyond for the kids.”

Because of what Murphy-Osborne has been through with her family over the last few years, she said her perspective on life has changed.

“I used to live to work,” she said. “I just wanted to work, work, work. Now, I work to live. My mother and husband had strokes, and now my life is different. I come to work, and I love my work, so I always give it 100%. But now when I go home, I take time for my family. For a lot of years, I didn’t do that. I just want happiness, peace and to live each day like it’s the last.”

Courtesy photo

Hamlin Elementary School leader Angela Murphy-Osborne, right, is the Florida

Principal of the Year. She attended the awards banquet with friend Janet Lanham and mother Kathy Murphy.

Works of HeART

Joseph ‘Joe’ Warren

The mission of the Winter Garden Art Association is to showcase, encourage and celebrate individual creativity and artistic expression among local artists.

West Orange County is teeming with artists whose talents range from visual to performing to literary arts. Whether they are expressing themselves with a microphone, paint brush and canvas, or the written word, artists and their creations give us avenues in which to imagine, dream and wonder.

In this feature, the Observer and the WGAA will highlight a local artist monthly.

This month, meet Joseph “Joe” Warren, a resident of Oakland. For more information on the artist and his art, visit warrenpaintings.com.

How

painting.

What are your favorite medium(s)?

For traditional mediums, I prefer oil paint and watercolor. I use digital medium, specifically Photoshop, as a composition tool.

What are your favorite themes in your artwork?

Figure painting has always interested me, imagery of people in action or involved in interaction with (one another) and other things or pets. The exploration of activities drives the compositions. These activities define them and give insight to the complexities of personalities. Like my other paintings, I like a saturated color palette in approaching figure painting. Specifically, the beach has always interested me. Having grown up in the Santa Monica Canyon area of Southern California, the beach was always in walking distance. It was a place of renewal, a place of reflection, a place of sanctuary and, of course, a place of recreation. As I was entering my teen years, the surf craze, which drove the California beach culture or pop culture, was catching on and was quickly becoming a phenomenon. It influenced language, music, fashion, all facets of everyday life. It’s no wonder the beach had an effect on me.

Consequently, I keep coming back to it for inspiration and find the imagery quite compelling. A spinoff of people at the beach is finding people congregating in public areas, such as outdoor markets and theme parks. I find the density of communal activity compelling.

Another theme in art I find compelling is pop art. Popular imagery composed so that on the surface it appears to be unrelated. In short, I just want to have fun with otherwise disconnected elements.

Why is expressing yourself through art important to you?  As a child and through my adult and professional life, I’ve always enjoyed producing artwork. I enjoy the tactile quality of paint on canvas or paper and find the use of Photoshop as a useful tool in composing my paintings.

Do you have a formal art education? If so, where and when?

I earned a bachelor’s degree in graphic art from San Diego State University in June 1970. I continued on with my art training by attending the University of Wisconsin, Madison, earning my master’s degree in arts in 1971 and my MFA in 1972. Both degrees were in painting, drawing and design.

What professional experience do you have?

I have professional experience in the field of 2D art. What I learned from my work experience also informed me as a painter. I taught drawing at Wayne State University. Internationally, I taught painting and drawing and was the head of the Department of Fine Art at Kenyatta University in Nairobi, Kenya. I have also exhibited paintings nationally and internationally. My experience living in East Africa has proven to be indelible.

Upon my return from East Africa, my career diverted from fine art to interior design. For eight years, I worked as an interior designer specializing in hospitality design for Holiday Inns in Memphis, Tennessee. After an exciting and fulfilling career at Walt Disney Imagineering, I retired at the end of 2013.

As the lead creative designer, I managed a team of artists and creative designers along with a variety of design driven projects for the Walt Disney World portfolio. My creative responsibilities included concept artwork to illustrate a variety of ideas for themed environments and assisted project teams assigned to developing Disney theme parks, attractions, resorts and the Disney cruise ships. I also created artwork for reproduction, and many of my creations are on display throughout the Disney theme parks and resorts.

Who is your favorite famous artist and why?

For artistic influences, there are two painters I look to as teachers and mentors. Both in their own way, they approach their imagery with a singular, iconic vision. First, I look to my experience as an artist illustrator with Walt Disney Imagineering. From 1995 to 2000, every summer WDI would sponsor Imagineering artists and designers to attend weeklong painting workshops in Montana. Our teacher-mentor was a talented Disney artist and illustrator by the name of Tom Gilleon. Since his

Disney days, Tom has developed a reputation for being the foremost Western artist in the genre of Western art and is known for his tepees and heads of Native Americans. Over the six-year run of the program, we became friends. Tom both taught and modeled the use of technology in composing and producing paintings and illustrations along with traditional media.

The second painter who was influential to me was Wayne Thiebaud, a California painter. Thiebaud was a visiting artist at the University of Wisconsin during my graduate studies and allowed four interested students to watch him paint in his U of W studio. I was one of the four students. His process, palette and materials have stayed with me through my progression as a painter. He is incorrectly known as a pop artist, and he prefers to be identified as a contemporary still-life painter, although he went on to paint figures and landscapes. Thiebaud passed away several years ago at the age of 101.

As for historical figures, I can find inspiration and influence from Sorolla, Sargent, the French Impressionists and Warhol. There are many others as well.

In what notable places has your artwork been displayed?

The Salmagundi Club, New York, New York; The Howland Cultural Center, Beacon, New York; Visual Arts Center, Punta Gorda; SoBo Art Gallery, Winter Garden; and The Healthy West Orange Arts and Heritage Center at the Town of Oakland.

Do you have accolades and awards?

I won the Curator’s Award at the SoBo Gallery in the Top Choice Annual Exhibition in 2023; third place in the 13th Biennial National Exhibition at the Visual Arts Center in Punta Gorda in 2022; and the Blick Art Materials Award in the 93rd Grand National Exhibition in New York in 2021. My work appears in multiple publications: “A Portrait of Walt Disney World: 50 years of the Most Magical Place on Earth”; “Imagineering, A Behind the Dreams Look at Making MORE Magic Real”; “The Art of Walt Disney World”; and The Imagineering Workout, Exercises to Shape Your Creative Muscles.”

— AMY QUESINBERRY PRICE

As a California native, Joseph ‘Joe’ Warren has always found the beach inspiring.

Warren enjoys the tactile feedback he gets from putting paint on canvas.

Left: Warren, an Oakland resident, has spent most of his life creating art.

Courtesy photos

THE WAYS WE WERE FROM THE WINTER GARDEN HERITAGE FOUNDATION

80 years ago

One thousand soldiers of the 352nd Battalion arrived in Winter Garden from Clermont and were stationed at the barracks on Lake Apopka.

70 years ago

The Orlando Transit Company bus had a freak accident in front of the Davis Pharmacy on Plant Street when the bus hit the bumper of Gene Cappleman’s car that was parked.

County Commissioner A.D. Mims said the actual cost for the Avalon Road job was $15,558.06. The resurfacing work was done by the J.D. Manley Construction Company.

55 years ago

Jaycees Ernest Crawford, Stan Smith, Calvin Grubbs, Robert Rudd and Tom Goddard attended the District 8 conference held in Orlando.

45 years ago

Special recognition went to the employees and management of B.L. Cobia Inc., Winter Garden, for the excellence of merchandise supplied to Sears during the past year.

50 years ago

Orange County officials, including County Commission Chairman Jack Martin, broke ground for the new Orange County Branch Courthouse on Story Road in Ocoee. The 30,000-square-foot complex was to resemble a modern shopping mall, with a central concourse and offices on each side. Planned were a sheriff substation, Health Department clinic, voter registration office, public defender, probation and parole complex, court clerk office, and tax collector office.

FROM THE ARCHIVES

This dramatic photograph of a Tavares & Gulf railroad “wood burner” engine was donated to the Winter Garden Heritage Foundation by Winter Garden’s Lau family. The T&G began just southeast of Tavares at Ellsworth Junction, running south through Astatula and then winding through Ferndale and Montverde on the west side of Lake Apopka. Just below Montverde was Wait’s Junction; at this point, the T&G split into two lines — one ran west to Clermont, and the eastern branch continued to Ocoee. The foundation welcomes further information from railroad enthusiasts about this engine. Call (407) 656-3244.

The 1913 T&G depot at 101 S. Boyd St. today serves as the Central Florida Railroad Museum and is open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays.

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.

35 years ago

Seven members of First Baptist Church Winter Garden continue telling heartwarming stories of volunteerism during the rebuilding phase after Hurricane Hugo ravaged South Carolina: Dixon and Bernice Hays, Dick and Rose Abbatiello, William and Hattie Bracewell, and John Wade.

The Greater Orlando Airport Authority had been searching for suitable land for two reliever airports in the area. One was to be

located in West Orange County; a search identified six possible sites. Two in Apopka and one in the Avalon area were eliminated, leaving two sites north of Schofield Road and one at the west end of Johns Lake.

The East-West Expressway extension from Kirkman Road west to Ocoee was expected to be completed and open in 10 months.

A letter to the editor from concerned parents at Palm Lake Elementary School opposed the ex-

perimental year-round school plan for a list of reasons, including the following: There is no cost savings, there is no plan to continue or expand year-round school, this is not the stable environment young children need, there is no expected educational benefit, the need for day care will increase, family life will be disrupted (especially with children at other schools), and there is no value in this experiment for Palm Lake students.

THROWBACK

THURSDAY

NOV. 7, 1974

The Card Carousel Shop was a one-stop shop in the Tri-City Center in Winter Garden in the 1970s. It sold everything from cards, gifts, stationery and party accessories — all the pieces necessary for entertaining.

In the Nov. 7, 1974, issue of The Winter Garden Times, the store advertised its weekly specials that included decorative address books ($1.19), BIC pens (10 cents), original hobby horses ($3.29), terrycloth coasters (89 cents), Hummel boxed notes (98 cents) and large rooster votive candle holders (98 cents). With the Christmas holiday right around the corner, the shop was offering decorative glass ornaments from $1.69 to $2.98 and boxed Christmas cards for 50% off.

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© 2024 NEA, Inc.

INFIELD SHIFT by Adam Levav, edited by Jeff Chen

By Luis Campos

redpages@orangeobserver.com

Observer

Flip

But

Saturday, December 7 • 4:00 - 8:00 pm at Downtown Winter Garden

Market Stalls of Holiday Goods & Gifts Holiday Entertainment Santa Visit

Trolley Rides to Main Street Holiday Stroll Winter Garden Christmas Golf Cart Parade, 6 pm Outdoor Holiday Wonderland Free Commemorative Tote Bags (while supplies last)

Pedestrian Only

www.cwgdn.com

pm – 8:00 pm