12.22.22 West Orange Times & Observer

bserver

NEIGHBORHOOD.

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

The Observer sta wishes you a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

The tradition continues

REPEAT THE SOUNDING JOY

Families and children gathered in front of Matthew’s Hope in Winter Garden to celebrate the holidays with games, pictures with Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus, arts and crafts, and more.

Nine animals stolen from reptile shop

An exotic pet store was the victim of a burglary over the weekend. According to shop owner Alejandro Estrada, the suspect absconded with snakes, tortoises and several large lizards.

Foundation Academy’s Sam Zagame will take his game to West Point next year.

White Swan Academy dancers performed a condensed version of “The Nutcracker.” SEE PAGE 5A.

Matthew’s Hope Elves Doug Sahr, Denise Fisher and Jill Mollenhauer with Natalie Gutierrez, Nichole Stahl and Stephanie Pena.

Natalie Gutierrez showed o her art after picking

Chabad of Orlando celebrates Chanukah in Winter Garden. PAGE 7A.

Winter Garden, Ocoee, Oakland

A ceremonial swearing and introduction was completed for new police o cer Emanuel Rodriguez. New police o cer Sarah Ho mann was also introduced. The two hires bring the Windermere Police Department to 100% sta ng.

The Town Council approved unanimously a revised variance request by Joseph and Jill Ata to allow for a front setback of 18 feet for a new attached garage.

Council members approved unanimously the rehabilitation of Town Hall by Tom Price Architects in an amount not to exceed $30,000.

Ramos announced that in regard to the boathouses, all the motions to dismiss that were led by the tenants have been dropped.

Town of Windermere approves permanent tra c diverter, amends golf cart ordinance

Council members in the town of Windermere approved unanimously to move forward implementing the Oakdale and Ninth diverter as a permanent solution, as well as amending the town’s golf cart ordinance to align with current state law, at their meeting Tuesday, Dec. 13.

The council originally passed the temporary traffic-calming program to alleviate traffic concerns along Oakdale Street in July.

Residents along the road have experienced issues with cut-through traffic, speeding, stop-sign running and aggressive-driving behaviors for years.

The temporary measure included the use of a diverter with no road closures and authorized flexibility to Town Manager Robert Smith to implement the program, providing for a re-evaluation period after three and six months, and requiring an ordinance for permanent trafficcalming measures.

The 30-day review, discussed in October, showed that traffic was reduced in the area by 55.91%.

According to data collected by the town, traffic traveling down Oakdale has continued to trend downward over the 90-day review period.

The number of vehicles per day during the peak hours in the first 30-day review was 34.56 vehicles per day. From Sept. 18 to Nov. 16, the town collected 40 days of data and averaged 28.3 vehicles per day during the same peak hours.

TRAFFIC TRIUMPH

Windermere resident David Sharpe said the traffic diverter has worked better than he had anticipated, and he hopes it is used as a model for other parts of town.

“I’ve been consistent with my reaction to the barrier, and it’s still working,” he said. “In fact, I think it’s worked better than any of us have hoped. I hope tonight the town moves forward with a permanent plan, because the one thing I think we’ve seen is the road is so much safer now. It’s so much quieter, and I think we’ve kept the traffic on the paved road where it belongs instead of zooming through our neighborhoods and putting at risk our kids, our pets, all of us. … What’s out there right now isn’t the prettiest thing in the world, but it’s effective.”

Windermere resident Brandi Haines said there is no doubt about the decrease in traffic as shown by the evaluations, although there is still room for improvement with people ignoring the signs and running over the barrier.

“I just want to make sure it’s more than just signs, because signs aren’t stopping the people,” she said.

Windermere Mayor Jim O’Brien thanked the two public speakers for coming forward and sharing their thoughts and for the “steady shepherding of the agenda item and coming forth with positive solutions.”

Although Sharpe said he would like to see if the timeline for permanently implementing the diverter can be sped up, O’Brien said there are some limitations with an ordinance as far as notices and meetings.

Staff now will begin to work with consultants on plans for the permanent diverter.

At least two public information workshops will be held as well as a Town Council workshop. Once a final design is agreed upon, an ordinance will be drafted and require two readings. This would need to happen after the design is approved since the ordinance would close the roadway.

GOLF CART REVISIONS

After a review of the town’s golf cart ordinance, Town Attorney Heather Ramos said it was essential to update the ordinance to bring it into alignment with the state statutes.

The proposed ordinance amends and updates Article 3 in Chapter 20 of the town’s Code of Ordinances.

“It shall be unlawful to operate a

golf cart on any street or sidewalk within the corporate limits of the town unless expressly authorized by this article or Florida law,” the first addition to the article reads.

Other notable additions focus on restrictions for golf cart operation upon the sidewalks within the town which are subject to the following restrictions and requirements: The maximum speed for golf carts on sidewalks is 15 mph, golf carts operated upon sidewalks must meet the equipment requirements, golf carts may only be operated on sidewalks which are at least 8 feet wide, and a golf cart may not be operated on town streets or sidewalks by any person under age 14.

Golf carts also will have to comply with all applicable state traffic laws and provisions of the article and may be ticketed for traffic violations in the same manner as motor vehicles.

In addition to the required specified equipment, golf carts must have headlights, brake lights, turn signals and a windshield operated 24 hours per day. Golf carts equipped with only the equipment specified may be operated only during the hours between sunrise and sunset. Unlicensed drivers may not operate a golf cart between sunset and sunrise.

The second reading of the ordinance was approved unanimously.

ANNABELLE SIKES STAFF WRITER

Windermere Police Chief David Ogden announced the police department completed three days of assessment for its nal push to become an accredited agency with assessors from the Commission for Florida Law Enforcement Accreditation Inc.

ALL SYSTEMS GLOW

As of press time Tuesday, Dec. 20, Central Florida meteorologists are predicting a — gasp — cold Christmas. They’re saying our Christmas Eve and Christmas mornings will be in the 30s.

And as much as we’d like to believe them, we’ve seen too many last-second forecast changes this year to put too much stock in those predictions.

However, even if the temperatures don’t cooperate, there are plenty of beautifully decorated homes in West Orange and Southwest Orange that certainly will put you into the Christmas spirit. Our reporters scoured the area for the best and brightest, and here are some of our recommendations.

— MICHAEL ENG, AMY QUESINBERRY AND ANNABELLE SIKES

This home, on Manuscript Street in Independence, features an entire village of miniature buildings and even a moving train. Neighborhood children can even control the train with a remote control.

This home on Covered Bridge Drive in Ocoee was all decked out with a Disney theme.

The decorations at this home, on Colonial Point Drive in Overook at Hamlin, are synced to Christmas music.

This home on Main Street in the town of Windermere features a classically beautiful display.

This home in Windsor Hill Reserve, at the corner of Castle Way Drive and Park Royal Drive, utilizes multiple outdoor oors for an impressive display.

With a dancing Santa on the porch and a holiday message at the sidewalk, this home on Strode

Lane in Enclave at Berkshire Park certainly brings plenty of joy to the holiday season.

JOY TO THE WORLD

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

Friedrich Hayek “Road to Serfdom,” 1944

Editor and Publisher / Michael Eng, meng@OrangeObserver.com

Design Editor / Jessica Eng, jeng@OrangeObserver.com

Community Editor / Amy Quesinberry, amyq@OrangeObserver.com

Sta Writer / Andrea Mujica, amujica@OrangeObserver.com

Sta Writer / Annabelle Sikes, asikes@OrangeObserver.com

Sales Manager / Cyndi Gustafson, advertising@OrangeObserver.com

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

Graphic Designer / Andrea Rukstalis, arukstalis@OrangeObserver.com

Advertising Operations Manager / Allison Brunelle, abrunelle@OrangeObserver.com

CONTACT US

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

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

TO ADVERTISE

For display or digital advertising, call (407) 656-2121.

For Classi eds, call (407) 656-2121.

SEND US YOUR NEWS

We want to hear from you. Let us know about your events, celebrations and achievements.

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

PUBLIC NOTICES

Matthew’s Hope celebrated its 2022 Christmas Carnival from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 17, in Winter Garden. Families gathered together in front of the Matthew’s Hope Orange County o ces to enjoy a beautiful afternoon lled with games, food, arts and crafts, and even a visit from Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus.

We Are Winter Garden was a co-host of the event and had a booth where kids were able to play games for prizes. Volunteers cooked hamburgers for people to enjoy while chatting with one another.

Children also were able to practice their craft skills while decorating their own Santa hats with the help of Matthew’s Hope’s Elves.

ANDREA MUJICA

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 $40 per year ($50 outside of Orange County) by the Observer Media Group, 661 Garden Commerce Parkway, Winter Garden, Florida, 34787. Periodical postage paid at Winter Garden, Florida. POSTMASTER: Send changes of address to the (name of pub; i.e., West Orange Times, West Orange Times & Observer or Southwest Orange Observer), Observer Media Group, P.O. Box 135, Lincolnshire, Illinois 60069-0135.

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

Founding Editor and CEO / Matt Walsh

President / Emily Walsh

Vice President / Lisa Walsh

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

Fernando Rodriguez and Jayden Rodriguez, of Orlando, took a look at the many gifts that were displayed at the carnival.

Left: Shannon Gay, Ynaijah Pierre, Ylijah Pierre and Ylaijah Pierre enjoyed a day out together.

Bella Rosario, 11, paid a visit to Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus to tell them her Christmas wishes.

A Better Life volunteer Tanya King held Fish, a recently rescued kitten up for adoption, in her arms during the carnival.

Above: Stephanie Pena was all smiles while designing some Christmas crafts.

Right: Joel Lopez, Je rey Rivera, Jonathan Ramjattan and Matthew West volunteered to play music during the carnival.

Milton de Medeiros, Page Smearman, Maci de Medeiros and Milton de Medeiros Jr. patiently waited for their shaved ice treats.

A

classic returns to Windermere

The town of Windermere enjoyed a shortened version of “The Nutcracker” ballet Saturday, Dec. 17, as the cast from White Swan Academy delighted many with a majestic performance. Families sat on the basketball courts, many on chairs and some on picnic blankets, during the sunny but fresh afternoon.

The cast performed the most notorious numbers of the original ballet such as the scene of Clara with The Nutcracker, the battle between the Mousequeen and The Nutcracker, the Spanish Dance, the Arabian Dance, the Russian Dance, and the Waltz of the Snowakes, among others.

— ANDREA MUJICA

Town of Windermere

Mayor Jim O’Brien with wife, Kristin O’Brien

Allison Rench and Emily O’Brien played the roles of Clara and The Nutcracker, respectively, in this year’s performance.

HOMES SWEET HOMES: Eight Waves hosts holiday tour

West Orange residents celebrated the holidays early with the new Holiday Tour of Homes to benefit Eight Waves on Saturday, Dec. 17. The holiday experience, presented by Meritage Homes and The Keewin Real Property Company, took place in Oakland and Winter Garden, where participants experienced a unique evening of touring four estate homes, all decked out in holiday finery.

The event included live music and a food tour that began with appetizers and ended with decadent desserts.

The leaders of Eight Waves said they were hoping to reach their goal of about $30,000, with funds going directly to the programs. The money can help the after-school program, provide meals or hygiene items for families in need, assist with the community outreaches and more.

ANNABELLE SIKES

Ocoee investigators search for suspect in reptile store burglary

AMY QUESINBERRY COMMUNITY EDITOR

Nine reptiles were stolen Friday, Dec. 16, during a break-in at Imperial Reptiles & Exotics in Ocoee. One of the animals taken was a pet black dragon named Onyx that belonged to store owner Alejandro Estrada.

The store is at 8919 W. Colonial Drive. According to Estrada, the thief or thieves entered the business by breaking the glass front door. Imperial does have an alarm, he said.

Estrada is asking for the commu-

nity’s help locating the suspect and recovering the animals.

“We need the community’s help,” Estrada said. “We are a small business — just moved here two years ago. We are asking people in the reptile hobby to please keep your eyes out for these animals. I know it’s a tightknit community, and I’m hopeful we can recover some of these animals especially our pet black dragon, Onyx.

“We have video footage of the suspect taking animals and a pretty clear shot of his face,” Estrada said. “When

STOLEN ANIMALS

Emerald tree boa

Green tree monitor, female

Three-foot black dragon

Dunner bearded dragon

Aru Green tree python

Three baby Sulcata tortoises

Three-legged bearded dragon

they’re found, these people will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law.”

Estrada said stolen were an emer-

ald tree boa, female green tree monitor, three-foot black dragon, Dunner bearded dragon, Aru Green tree python, three baby Sulcata tortoises and a three-legged bearded dragon.

“We haven’t recovered anyone yet, and we are unsure where they can be,” Estrada said. “These animals require special care, especially heat and a special diet. Value of around $10,000 was stolen and damaged.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact the shop via email at info@ imperialreptiles.com.

Courtesy

This is an image of the suspect captured from security cameras.

Left: Charles and Karen Roper walked around the second home enjoying the Christmas decorations.

Below: Tom and Christy Reynolds and Gregg and Lize Landis stopped for a picture before their carriage ride.

Above: Sebastian Kumpulainen and Amanda Rivera loaded up their plates with snacks.

Right: Kelly Carr, director of operations and programs at Eight Waves, and Erika Feazell, community resource specialist at Eight Waves, helped run the event.

CHAG SAMEACH! Winter Garden celebrates Chanukah

Winter Garden celebrated the Festival of Lights at the 2022 Chanukah Celebration and Menorah Lighting Monday, Dec. 19, downtown. The program, held near the post office on Plant Street, was hosted by Chabad of South Orlando and Winter Garden Hebrew School. The Chanukah event included latkes, live music and other entertainment.

“It’s good to see the joy in everyone,” Laura Coar, director of the Winter Garden Parks and Recreation Department, said after the festival. “It’s a true community event.”

The Festival of Lights is an eightday festival to commemorate the rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem.

Coar said more than 200 people attended the Chanukah Celebration and Menorah Lighting event. The program has become increasingly popular and has outgrown the space. Coar said the event will move to a larger space next year — likely the farmer’s market pavilion.

— AMY QUESINBERRY

Joshua and Kelly Roth enjoyed the Chanukah Celebration with their daughter, Mikayla.

Rabbi Yosef Konikov shared the meaning of the Festival of Lights during the event.

Left: Melissa Trupp and Fosse dressed festively for the menorah-lighting ceremony.

Horizon West Car Fest rumbles into Hamlin

The Horizon West Car Fest sped into Hamlin on Saturday, Dec. 17. The event, run by father-and-son duo Eric and Alex Jacky, featured dream cars of all types including exotics, classics, super cars and European models. The family friendly show was themed for the holidays, complete with a visit from Santa Claus and a toy collection for Toys for Tots.

The next Car Fest will take place in the spring with a go kart race following. People who want to participate will head over to Orlando Kart Center together.

Santa makes early appearance in Horizon West

Horizon West children and families got a little one-on-one time with Jolly Old St. Nick at the Santa’s Coming to Hamlin event, held Saturday, Dec. 10, at Hamlin Town Center. The event featured live music, booths from local businesses, a variety of food vendors and, of course, a chance to visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Judy and Ron Mann proudly showed o their 1964 Chevrolet Corvair Greenbrier Sports Van.

Je Bethel brought his 1930 classic Ford.

Right: JP and Grady Parker were thrilled to sit inside one of the cars at the show.

Light Orlando’s life-sized snow globe was a hit among event attendees. Although temperatures crept into the 80s that day, the Nelson family was shivering inside the globe. From left: dad Todd; daughter Adelaide, 9; mom Brenna; and son Preston, 6.

MICHAEL ENG

Above: Stella Nieves, 4, let Santa know what was on her Christmas list at Santa’s Coming to Hamlin.

Middle: Emma Gomez, 5, stayed still as she got unicorn-themed artwork painted on her face.

ONLINE See more photos at OrangeObserver.com

Gymnastics USA tumbles into Christmas season

ymnastics USA welcomed locals to its signature holiday event, the annual Christmas Spectacular, on Saturday, Dec. 10, in Winter Garden. The doors to the gymnasium opened to a long line of people at 6 p.m. where attendees had the opportunity to enjoy an open gym, food trucks, vendors, rock climbing, a deejay, ra es and prizes, a snowfall, a visit with Santa Claus, and much more.

Perhaps the highlight of the event was live performances from Gymnastics USA’s climbers team, Zander’s Elves, climbers juniors team and climbers acrobatics.

ANNABELLE SIKES

Holiday tradition blossoms at Gotha’s Nehrling Gardens

Community

Nehrling Gardens welcomed locals to its annual Holiday Amaryllis Festival Saturday, Dec. 10. The free family event is known for its sale of spectacular and rare hybrid amaryllis bulbs, as well as blooming amaryllis to purchase for the holidays. The festival also featured a holiday plant sale, pop-up market, crafts for kids, holiday treats, photo opportunities, a visit from Santa and live music.

sponsors included Healthy West Orange, Orlando Health and Orange Observer.

— ANNABELLE SIKES

Paola De Souza drew residents to her table with her unique succulent plants.

Karen Weber and Melissa Killian walked around the festival together.

Elizabeth and Adelaide Stolz enjoyed this year’s festival.

Children ran around the gymnasium and enjoyed activities with their friends.

Twins Ryleigh and Reagan Williams wore matching holiday out ts.

Above: Coach Lucie Vergnault walked around the gym with Kaylee and Connor Burke.

Left: Jackie Arther, co-owner of Gymnastics USA, Austin Arthur, co-founder of Gymnastics USA, and Zander Arthur, co-founder and co-owner of Gymnastics USA, helped run the event.

Right: Children and their families enjoyed an open gymnasium.

Attendees enjoyed live holiday music throughout the gardens.

Lincoln Rush strolled through the holiday fairy garden.

HIGH 5

1Windermere High School girls head golf coach Kathleen McOwen recently was selected as the 2022 All-Metro Girls Golf Coach of the year. Along with that announcement, the Windermere High School Athletic Department also announced Marthina Montenegro was selected as the Metro West Girls Golf academic winner. Montenegro, along with Wendy Xizhao Wi, were selected to the All-Metro team. Furthermore, junior wrestler Lucas Drone earned third place in the 132-pound category, while sophomore Egehan Yilhan nished second in the 106-pound category at the Bill Scott Memorial Tournament Sunday, Dec. 18.

2

The West Orange High School girls powerlifting team defeated Windermere and Wekiva during a tri-meet Monday, Dec. 12. The Warriors took the lead with a total of 51 points, the Mustangs followed in second place with a total of 32 points, and the Wolverines nished third with 23 points.

3

Lake Buena Vista girls team golfer Reagan Chasten recently was named to the Metro West AllMetro Golf Team.

4

The Olympia High School track and eld team will hold an interest meeting at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 10, 2023, inside the school’s Media Center.

ROAD WORTHY

5

Windermere Prep hosted its Holiday Classic national basketball tournament Monday, Dec. 19, and Tuesday, Dec. 20. Teams in attendance were Episcopal School, North Broward Prep, Windermere Prep and Cardinal Newman. After the rst round of games, on the girls side, Cardinal Newman was set to face North Broward Prep in the Championship Game at 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 20, while Windermere Prep and Episcopal School were set to clash to determine who will place third in the tournament. On the boys side, Cardinal Newman was scheduled to play North Broward Prep in the Championship Game at 5 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 20, while Windermere Prep and Episcopal School were scheduled for the consolation game at 3:30 p.m.

Brandon Kari has run every street in Ocoee — his beloved hometown. Now, he is already working on running the streets in Winter Garden and Clermont.

ANDREA MUJICA STAFF WRITER

Ocoee resident Brandon Kari set the goal for himself a few years back — without any specific timeline — to run every street in his hometown.

“It wasn’t like I’m going to do this in a certain amount of time,” he said. “It was more like, ‘I’m going to do this and explore the city and eventually, it’ll get done.’”

Every street around his house was marked red on his map before streets that were farther away, but eventually, every street in Ocoee was highlighted red, meaning Brandon Kari had finally achieved his goal.

“I’m very much goal-oriented,” he said. “I set goals and try to get them. … I had smaller goals (with running) and they progressed and progressed, so I continued to set goals to stay

INTO THE WILD

active, and that’s how the streets came to be.”

LOVER OF NATURE

Brandon Kari wasn’t always a runner. However, he’s loved nature his entire life.

It was when he met his wife, Lauren Kari, in 2006 that he truly began to enjoy the sport by bringing into it his love for nature.

“It’s helped me to be more engaged with nature, and I think that as a person, that is important,” Brandon Kari

said. “It gets you that nature mindset even in the city. When you are running out there, you see all these different places that you don’t normally see when you drive. … When I run around Ocoee, I’ve seen places I hadn’t seen in 20 years. I see the little things.”

The Karis have three children: Jackson, 12, Ryder, 10, and Dakota, 7, and currently, the couple is working on adopting Baby C, 16 months.

Every morning, during school drop-off time, Brandon Kari decided to go out on a run around town with Baby C, who has become a loyal companion and enjoys the morning strolls with Brandon.

“He doesn’t make a peep in his runs,” Lauren Kari said. “He loves it.”

As the owner of Brandon Kari Productions, Brandon gets to travel quite a bit during the year and uses those

Foundation Academy football player commits to West

ANDREA MUJICA STAFF WRITER

For Foundation Academy senior and linebacker Sam Zagame, committing to the United States Military Academy at West Point was an easy and fast decision.

“Army has been one of the schools in my mind for a while,” he said. “So when they offered, it only took three days for me to get committed.”

For a while, Sam Zagame had known that he wanted to pursue the opportunity of playing college football and — if possible — play in a Division I college. When he received the offer from West Point, he didn’t think too much about it. He — along with his family — had already done the research.

“The football program is great, coach (Daryl) Dixon and I did a Zoom call, and he showed me the facilities,”

Sam Zagame said. “It’s also a topnotch program and the best of the best. The stadium is beautiful; it’s around the Hudson River.”

Besides the football facilities at West Point — The Michie Stadium which fits about 38,000 people, a 20,000 square-foot-weight room and a nutrition bar — what also caught Sam Zagame’s eye was the

Foundation’s Wyatt Walpole currently is ranked No. 24 in all soccer divisions in the state for goals scored this season. Page 2B.

Andrea Mujica

The Kari family has become inspired to go on runs through seeing Brandon Kari’s passion for the pavement. The family framed Brandon Kari’s highlighted map after he successfully ran every street in Ocoee.

Andrea Mujica

Sam Zagame will follow in both of his grandfathers’ footsteps by serving his country once he graduates from West Point.

ATHLETE OF THE

Wyatt Walpole

Tell us about your years as a soccer player.

Well, I started playing soccer at 5 years old, when I was really little. I played at the Dr. Phillips YMCA, and my dad was my first coach for a lot of my years until middle school, when I came to Foundation and started playing with them.

Why soccer?

It’s always been my sport. I played sports growing up: flag football and soccer. Which actually now that I think about it, I liked flag football better, but I like playing soccer here now. I tried playing football this season, I got some playing time but it was rough. … It got me faster.

Are you planning on playing football again next year?

Yes, and I play lacrosse, too.

How do you like being a part of the Lions soccer team?

I love it. Soccer is what I live for every day pretty much. I’m sitting in class thinking about what game we have to play (that day).

What do you love most about soccer as a sport?

I like winning, probably. We won districts last year, and that was the highlight of the year by far. I’m just trying to get back to that pretty much.

How do you think you can help your team this year?

I feel like morale is also important, I try to lift them up sometimes. Obviously, offense … I just try to build up possession, take the ball and (it) falls on me to try and finish it and really got to go 102%. When I hustle and do my part, I feel like it encourages (my being like,

THE BASICS

Runner completes goal

work opportunities to set foot out the door and run the streets of wherever he may be in that moment.

“I like to explore, so when I travel I go running around and explore and see the city,” he said. “Everywhere we are I try to do a little bit (of running).”

The Karis travel a lot during the summer and have set a family goal — to visit all the national parks in the country. So far, they have been to 41.

“We started running outside with our national park trips,” Lauren Kari said. “We go and want the kids immersed in nature, so he’d always be, (saying) ‘I want to run this town,” or, ‘I want to run this road.’”

she couldn’t make it. Brandon didn’t bring running shoes (but) … he had someone take our kids and ran with me for the last five miles, encouraging me.”

Despite his involvement in the Iron Man, Brandon Kari said he would not register for another race.

“I’d rather pay, instead of an entry fee, an airplane ticket to go somewhere really cool and explore and do a run,” he said.

During the family trips, and even at home, the Karis go on runs as a family, because they are trying to instill in their children the passion Brandon Kari has for nature.

‘Hey, coach said to get out to the field and start practicing.’ Really just holding people accountable, picking people up and encouraging them.

Were you rooting for a specific team during the World Cup?

I am a die-hard USA fan. I was kind of mad for what happened with the Netherlands. Now, I am rooting for Messi; I want to see him win the World Cup.

What’s your favorite hobby?

I’m actually building a sailboat right now — think of a cardboard box with a sheet on top of it and trash bags. But, it floats and it works. Me and my friend (Mason Nicks) — we did our research, I’m going to take it to the lake one of these days; it’s almost finished. It could fit one person.

What do you like to do on the weekends?

Usually, when my parents are not (asking) about my grades, I like hanging around with my friends.

I go to Jeremiah’s sometimes.

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

I would take my friend, Mason; I’d take a really good steak — a ribeye. I’d take our boat, we

“Any kind of nature is good and inspiring,” Brandon Kari said. “We are Christian, so we feel connected to God in the places that we go — when sitting on top of a mountain or seeing a sunset, it’s pretty hard to deny that connection.”

In 2018, Brandon Kari ran the Florida Iron Man in Haines City. He trained a year or so for that event between two to six hours a day.

“He inspired me to do a half marathon,” Lauren Kari said. “At the end, you start losing momentum. … I had someone who had planned to come run with me for my last three miles but, because she is a mom,

Zagame commits

type of defense the Army Black Knights run.

“They run a 3-4 defense, so it’s a run-heavy defense, and that’s what we’ve done here at Foundation for the last few years,” he said. “We run it a little different, but we’ve always been running a heavy defense. I think I’m going to fit perfectly with their defensive style.”

Foundation Academy head football coach Andre Walker is excited to see Sam Zagame play at the next level and is looking forward to see ing where his collegiate education — and football career — take him.

“Sam, to say the least, pretty much was the catalyst to our team,” he said. “It fits that he will be going to a school like that; the school suits him, I think it’s a solid fit. He’s a phenomenal football player but not just a football player, a (phenomenal) person. … He will work out very well in the defense that they provide, he loves to attack, and that’s what they do. As far as career-wise, you can’t ask for a better finish.”

On top of football however, West Point will offer much more to Sam Zagame — it will continue to hone in his leadership skills.

“I asked the Lord to give Sam an opportunity that would be excellent for him,” his mother, Jennifer Zagame, said. “He’s so excited about the football program and the opportunity there. It fits his character and leadership that we know he already has displayed as a young man but, he is going to be growing into that and be taught by a phenomenal group of mentors there, so it really does fit every single aspect that we prayed about.”

After a long road in the recruitment process journey — and talking to several schools — Sam Zagame feels certain his decision will bring him myriad new experiences and will mold him into a better human being by the time he is ready to graduate.

“I’m looking forward to the tight knit group of guys that I’m going to be with,” he said. “(There) everyone has each other’s backs.”

Sam Zagame’s commitment to

“We wanted our kids to be connected to that, too,” Lauren Kari said. “We wanted them to feel in awe of something and feel small, too … show them there’s more to life.”

This year, Brandon Kari set another goal, to run every day of the year and run 1,000 miles. So far, he has only missed two days and has run 968 miles.

“I been trying that for four years,” he said. “I’ve gotten to 920, 950, but I haven’t concentrated to push through and do it. Hopefully, this is the year.”

As a solo runner, Brandon Kari either listens to a book, a podcast, some music or just prays, depending on his mood. However, when running with his family, he enjoys

— Brandon Kari

talks with his 10-year-old son and works on motivating his children to finish the run and make it enjoyable for them, as he wants to inspire them to challenge themselves.

“That’s my ultimate goal,” he said. “To inspire other people to do great things and have goals and feel that feeling you get when you accomplish something great. That’s what I love about the goals I’ve accomplished and as I’ve accomplished those goals, the sense of pride on what you’ve done. I’d like to see other people feel that.”

Brandon Kari has begun to run streets in Winter Garden and Clermont. He takes advantage of driving his children to extracurricular activities to get the daily run in — which may vary from three miles to 12 depending on the day.

West Point also brings with it a fiveyear service term at the end of his college education, which will serve to place him within one of the 17 existing military branches, and even though he is unsure of what branch he’d like to go into, Sam Zagame is excited to become the next member of his family to serve his country.

A FAMILY OF SERVICE

With his decision of committing to West Point, Sam Zagame is following both his grandparents’ (Thomas Frick and Joe Zagame Sr.) footsteps — as they both served their country as part of the military back in the 1960s.

“I am so proud that Sam will be going to West Point,” Joe Zagame Sr. said. “He has worked so hard to become a great football player and a leader of his team. He will bring this same dedication to his time at West Point and will make a great soldier.”

Frick and Joe Zagame Sr. didn’t go to West Point. Instead, they both enrolled at the ROTC at their respective universities — Indiana University of Pennsylvania and Syracuse University, respectively.

For their first assignment as part of the military service, Frick and Joe Zagame Sr. were stationed at Fort Lee in Prince George County, Virginia.

“They became fast friends,” Jennifer Zagame said. “They stayed in touch through the years.”

An important lesson Joe Zagame Sr. learned through his years in the military — from January 1963 to 1965 and four years as part of the

“Sam has been chosen to be at West Point, because he has showed he is a leader and a person of fine character,” he said. “His time at West Point will strengthen these traits and make him a part of a historic legacy of military greatness.”

Not only are Sam Zagame’s grandparents excited and proud of his achievement, but the entire family is.

“It’s such an honor,” Jennifer Zagame said. “We want him to be looked at of course as a football players but also as a person with leadership skills and intellectual capabilities that could be challenged and grown, and we just feel like this entire fit is really a fantastic package for Sam.”

When Joe Zagame Sr. found out his grandson will become part of West Point, he was overwhelmed with excitement.

“I don’t usually show my emotions, but when I got the news that (Sam) would go to West Point, I was flooded with tears of joy,” he said. “I love our country, and I’m proud that Sam will be part of the best military in the world.”

“I’m excited to follow in their footsteps,” Sam Zagame said about his grandparents. “I think it’s going to be great.”

To show his commitment, Sam Zagame signed a Letter of Intent early at his home Wednesday, Dec. 21, surrounded by his family.

Foundation Academy junior and soccer team right wing and striker Wyatt Walpole has scored 12 goals in nine games for a total of 26 points this season. Walpole currently is ranked No. 24 in the state based on number of goals this season in all divisions. In the junior division, he is ranked within the Top 10 in the state in goals.

army reserve — was how important the military is and that leadership skills are necessary in order for it to work.

“That’s my ultimate goal. To inspire other people to do great things and have goals and feel that feeling you get when you accomplish something great. …”

Andrea Mujica

Sam Zagame with Foundation Academy head football coach Andre Walker.

Olympia High School boys basketball o to a fast start

MUJICA STAFF WRITER

When it comes to winning, the Olympia boys basketball team is no stranger to the feeling of walking out of a game with the victory.

But the success the boys have achieved on the basketball court does not come free. In fact, the Titans give their all every day at practice.

“The biggest thing that has been super successful for us this year is that these guys have a tremendous work ethic,” head basketball coach Rob Gordon said. “They come to practice every day with a very professional mindset and are very business in their approach, so that has been huge for our moving forward with our team and our program.”

After ending their 2021-22 season with a 21-8 overall record and advancing all the way to the FHSAA Region 2 semifinal, the Titans got eliminated by the Dr. Phillips Panthers 81-49. If anything, this just made the Olympia boys hungrier to battle good teams on the court — and come out with a “W” every time.

“It’s not so much about being undefeated; it’s about the guys buying into the process that it takes,” Gordon said. “Because this isn’t a sprint; this is a marathon. The season is a grind, and if you are getting hung up on your record, you are losing focus on what the end up goal is, and that is to become the best team that you can possibly become — no matter what the record is. So, we are

trying to guide the guys to play their very best and be the very best when the end of the season gets here.”

This year set a record in the team regarding the level of competition between the boys when it comes to earning a spot on the team.

“We were pretty talented last year,” Gordon said. “I think what separates the team this year from last year’s so far is that we have tremendous depth on this team. We have 11 guys (who) can really perform, and that makes the practices very competitive. …

The competition for the spots on the team really is at an all-time high for what we have been as a program.”

Not only do the Titans compete against each other during practice, but also they take every team they play seriously.

“Just about every single drill we do is competitive,” Gordon said. “There is a winner and a loser in every single drill, so that kind of feeds the vibe we have that winning matters and performance matters. (Also), everybody that we play its tough. There is not a single team on our schedule that is not good enough to beat us. We have to take every opponent as seriously as the next and it’s just really about us being our very best and perform at a high level.”

The boys consider one another family and have learned that in the sport of basketball, there is no “me.”

“Our kids are really buying into each other and that (the team) is not an individualistic situation,” Gordon said. “It’s everyone buying into the

process that it takes to become good and we just work hard for each other and try to make each other better.”

To end their fall semester, the Titans gathered at Gordon’s house Wednesday, Dec. 21, for their traditional holiday party.

“That is one of the most favorite things for the players and the coaching staff,” Gordon said. “We do a white elephant gift exchange and just enjoy each other’s company off the court. That is how we are going to celebrate the season, and it’s a tradition that we created and that we have done for the six years I’ve been here. … It’s kind of a cool environment for the kids to get to know me outside of the court and (for the coaches) to open up our arms to these kids in a different way.”

Once the winter break is over, the Titans will travel to Oak Ridge for a district game at 6 p.m. Monday, Jan. 16, 2023.

ANDREA

With a current 7-0 overall record, the Titans continue to impress this season on the court.

Courtesy photo

The competition for a spot on the Titans squad is at an all-time high this year.

INFLUENCER OF THE WEEK

ALEXA COSME, HORIZON WEST MIDDLE SCHOOL

Alexa Cosme is the eighth-grade professional school counselor at Horizon West Middle School and the recipient of the 2022 Endeavor Award. According to the American School Counselor Association, school counselors create school counseling programs based on three sets of standards that de ne the profession. These standards help school counselors develop, implement and assess their school counseling program to improve student outcomes.

What brought you to your school?

I had attended a conference where our past lead counselor was presenting, and her program/school seemed like a great place to work.

I also attended the University of Central Florida and saw there were other UCF counselors on our campus, so I was so excited to interview and get accepted to be at Horizon West Middle School.

What do you love most about your school?

I really love the work environment. My co-school counselors that I collaboratively work with are one of my favorite parts of my school.

What is your motivation?

Being able to work with students and help them go through middle school. It drives me to also know that I hope I am making any difference big or small.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

The most rewarding part is when I can see that students are feeling better or can express their emotions in their own way. Being able to chat and meet with students daily is one of the best parts of my job and I look forward to it.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

In my spare time, I like to go to farmers markets, cuddle with my dog and buy house plants or garden.

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

My favorite teacher when I was in school was either my first-grade teacher Ms. Patterson or my senior year AP literature teacher Ms. Vivan. Both teachers were inspiring women who constantly spoke with their students and engaged with us. I will always be grateful for them.

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

I wanted to be a travel writer. I enjoyed trying new things and watching “The Wild Thornberrys,” as well. I have always been driven to write all different types of stories, reviews, etc.

What is your favorite children’s book and why?

My favorite children’s book is

REPORT CARD

POSITION: Eighth-grade professional school counselor

TIME AT SCHOOL: Two years TIME AT OCPS: Two years

“Goodnight Moon.” I read that constantly growing up.

What are your hobbies?

My hobbies are finding tasty coffee, gardening, going to barre/ being active.

If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why? Teleportation, so that I can snap my fingers and be anywhere at any time.

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

Coldplay, Lorde … There are so many to choose from.

What was your go-to lunch as an elementary student? Any favorite snacks or special treats you remember?

Swiss Cake Rolls, Fruit Roll-Ups or nacho Lunchables.

What is your favorite holiday and why?

I love Thanksgiving, because I get to be with family, watch the Macy’s Parade and eat a lot of good food.

What did it mean to you to win the Endeavor Award?

I am so beyond grateful that I received the award. It was so rewarding to feel that I have been able to make an impact on these students and families that we work with. Being recognized for an award as such is something that made my year.

— ANNABELLE SIKES

West Orange High choir performs at Disney Candlelight Processional

ite moment of the performance was when the lights first came on and the students sang “Shout for Joy.”

A SWELL TIME

In

Right:

Below:

SIKES STAFF WRITER

West Orange High School choir students enjoyed a magical experience earlier this month at Disney’s Epcot International Festival of the Holidays Candlelight Processional.

Forty-five students, ranging from sophomores to seniors, stood on stage under the bright lights singing holiday songs of hope and joy.

The performers were accompanied by celebrity narrator Daymond John, from Shark Tank, who told the story of Christmas, recounting the biblical account of a savior born in Bethlehem.

Melinda Fradley, choir director, said the performance is an opportunity for the students from local high

schools to experience a professional gig. The students were even paid for their time with free Disney tickets.

“I was so happy to see the students who had missed out on the opportunity because of the pandemic experience being there for the first time,” she said. “I’m in my third year here at the school, and I came in the midst of COVID. The students’ tenacity is what truly inspires me the most, because they kept coming back even through the challenges. The choir was one of the organization’s most impacted, because the masks and outdoor performing made it difficult to grasp the sound. We did all we could to bring the students back and found new solutions to overcome the pandemic.”

Junior Kyla Martin said her favor-

“It felt so surreal, because I remember watching this performance when I was young,” she said.

Senior Jack Rainville said he remembers hearing about the performance from students who had done the show in the past.

“My friends and I prepared so much for this so it was super cool and exciting being on stage after hearing about it for so long and wishing we could do it too,” he said.

Senior Malia Gomes described the opportunity as “magical.”

“I loved seeing everyone come together as a whole, even students with similar interests from other schools,” she said. “Choir and music in general is my safe place where I can feel stress free and we’re a family so we have to work together.”

ANNABELLE

The local high school students took to the stage to sing Disney holiday classics earlier this month in Epcot.

addition to a performance at the Candlelight Processional, the choir students enjoyed a little holiday fun by building gingerbread houses.

Payton Estrada and Malia Gomes made a homemade holiday house.

Hannah Maritz, Gaby Turri and Jack Rainville pose for a picture with their creation.

Above: Rylee Sullivan, Haven Birket and Alex Tokarz built their gingerbread house together.

Left: Kate Lopez and Jackson Brown showed o their elegant gingerbread house.

Courtesy photos

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

Starke Lake Baptist Church

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

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

Sunday: 11AM & 6 PM Wednesday: 7 PM

CHURCH OF GOD

Ocoee Church of God

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

EPISCOPAL

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

METHODIST

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

NON-DENOMINATIONAL

Purpose Church Orlando 13640 W Colonial Dr. Ste 110, Winter Garden (407) 654-9661 Sunday Service: 10:05 AM Sunday Brazilian Service: 7 PM Saturday Service: 6 PM www.purposechurchorlando.org

West Orange Christian Church 7325 Conroy Windermere Rd, Orlando (407) 299-2092 Sunday Service:10:30AM www.woccorlando.org

Garden Theatre announces collaboration with Victory Productions

The theater announced a season of four productions in early 2023.

The Garden Theatre last week announced it is collaborating with Florida-based Victory Productions to launch a new theatrical season of live performances beginning in 2023.

The partnership will bring a range of live performances to the Winter Garden theater. Victory Productions is a national entertainment company that specializes in designing and producing live performances and events around the country.

Beginning in early 2023, the season will open with “Rock of Ages,” followed by “Next to Normal” and “Something Rotten!” The season will close in early summer with “Dreamgirls.”

Performance dates for the upcoming shows, including ticket on-sale dates, will be announced soon.

“Our patrons are eager for live performance to return to the Garden Theatre, and this partnership with Victory Productions allows us to continue to provide quality arts and culture experiences for our community,” said Keith Smith, interim vice chair of the theater’s board of directors. “We share with Victory a mission of bringing high-quality, professional and inclusive live theater to our stage.”

Victory Productions President Fernando Varela added: “While Victory Productions has a national clientele, Central Florida is our home. We look forward to being a part of Garden Theatre’s new focus and direction bringing quality production that audiences have become accustomed to seeing.”

The theater halted producing live performances in August to allow its board and staff to conduct an internal review of operations from a strategic growth perspective. As part of this work, the theater established partnerships with the Edyth Bush Institute and Arts Consulting Group.

something for everyone.”

Issues at the theater surfaced after the departures of several key leaders. Executive Director Nao Tsurumaki departed in the spring of 2020, and his interim replacement, Melissa Mason Braillard, left after two months. In November 2020, Elisa Spencer-Kaplan was hired in the newly titled role of managing director but departed after 13 months. The position has been vacant since, although about a month ago, the board hired Tom Carto as interim managing director.

Board Chair Wes Catlett-Miller stepped down in December 2021; Allie Braswell took up the position in March but left to focus on his campaign for the Florida Legislature.

Then in June, Artistic Director Joseph Walsh resigned after three years, as did Felichia Chivaugn, who was set to direct “A Bronx Tale” as the first show of the new season.

In August, the board of directors decided to halt all theater programming to shift its focus on the theater’s organizational health.

“This approach was based on our recognition of the significant impact that the theatre and its successful operation has on the patrons, staff, surrounding businesses and countless youth who benefit from the education programs offered by the theater,” the board stated in a prepared statement. “It comes from the board’s strong commitment and desire to preserve and perfect — not to destroy or dismantle. After hearing from staff today, we are encouraged that we can work together for our shared love of Garden Theatre.”

MatthewsHopeMinistries.org

Edyth Bush Institute has prioritized conducting an organizational assessment that identifies the Garden Theatre board’s leadership strengths, challenges, opportunities for growth and how to grow successfully.

Arts Consulting Group is nationally recognized for its expertise in arts and culture, and promoting strategic and operational best practices. Its work will assist in developing, evaluating and creating a vision and structure for the Garden Theatre that supports important strategic alliances. The process includes an assessment of culture, arts focus, programming and organizational structure, leading to creating a strategic plan which will keep the theater relevant.

“This has been a journey to identify where we can improve, continue to grow, and serve the community,” Smith said. “These are strategic partnerships with a shared purpose of growing Garden Theatre and its future. We are determined to provide theatre in our community that is relevant, inclusive and provides

According to its website, Victory Productions is a full-service entertainment company that specializes in concert promotions, production of live theater and special events. Part of the proceeds from every production goes to benefit several programs that serve underprivileged children in local communities and abroad. Current programs include The Backpack Program in Sumter, Marion, Lake and Orange counties; support of Wildwood Elementary; and ChildFund International. Venues with which it has worked include the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts in Orlando, the Mahaffey Theatre in St. Petersburg and The Savannah Center in The Villages.

For more information, call the Garden Theatre Box Office at 407877-GRDN (4736) or visit gardentheatre.org.

File photo by Kirk Marsh

Live shows will return to the Garden Theatre early next year, starting with “Rock of Ages.”

“These are strategic partnerships with a shared purpose of growing Garden Theatre and its future. We are determined to provide theatre in our community that is relevant, inclusive, and provides something for everyone.”

70 years ago

Mr. and Mrs. George Akin entertained a group of young couples in their home, serving supper, watching television and playing canasta. The home was most attractively decorated in the season’s motif, and the television shows came through extra clearly. Guests were Mr. and Mrs. Lester Austin, Mr. and Mrs. Ward Britt, Mr. and Mrs. Judson Moore, Mr. and Mrs. Johnie Gri n, Mr. and Mrs. Bob Lease, and Mr. and Mrs. Franklin Cappleman.

50 years ago

Kay Sims and Virginia McNeil, of Bay Hill — together with Kay’s sister, Eleanor Lauren, of Windermere — opened an attractive new store in the Turkey Lake Shopping Center on Kirkman Road.

45 years ago

Thanks to Buzz Lamb’s class and Kitty Osburn and Kelly Hicks’ Girl Scout troop for making tray favors for the Meals on Wheels program. These favors were a welcome added embellishment to a muchappreciated service.

40 years ago

Oakland had a “paintin’ party” for the post o ce building, which was owned by the town. Many people came to paint, x the roof, trim trees or just watch.

30 years ago

Christopher Pfei er, a 15-year-old Winter Garden teen with cerebral palsy, got his much-needed computer because of a generous anonymous donor.

“On Christmas Eve 1985, W.T. ‘Tommy’ Zeigler had an enviable life. His business was prospering. He was happily married and an outstanding member of his community. But in a few hours that night, the American dream became Zeigler’s nightmare. He was the only survivor of a shooting spree in which his wife, in-laws and a bystander were

FROM THE ARCHIVES

This cheerfully optimistic ad ran in the Winter Garden Times during Christmas 1932. The Tavares & Gulf Railroad, whose 1913 Winter Garden depot serves as today’s Central Florida Railroad Museum, was not noted for keeping a timely schedule — but that didn’t stop the company from shipping more citrus and produce than any other national railroad in its class during the 1940s.

The Tavares & Gulf, which had operated under that name even after the Seaboard Air Line-Seaboard Coast Line merger absorbed it, had its nal run Dec. 28, 1969.

“The Tavares & Gulf Legacy,” an illustrated history by Rick Cronin and Phil Cross, tells the story of West Orange County’s beloved railroad. It’s available for purchase at both the Central Florida Railroad Museum and the Winter Garden Heritage Museum.

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.

brutally slain in his (Winter Garden) furniture store. On Christmas Day, Zeigler awoke in a hospital, critically injured, to nd that he was the prime suspect.”

“Fatal Flaw,” a new book by journalist Philip Finch, told an intriguing story of an innocent man who was unjustly found guilty.

Finch claimed that, at every stage of the investigation, mysterious

oversights and outright negligence occurred, working together to deliver a faulty verdict. According to the book, the judge, jury, prosecutor, local law enforcement o cials, criminal investigators and FBI lab all acted wrongly. It also asserted that the key witnesses for the state all lied under oath.

“The city of Ocoee has rein-

vented itself,” said Bruce Behrens, director of planning. The city approved the annexation of 1,861.3 acres, an increase of more than 30% in Ocoee’s total land area. These annexations moved the city’s boundaries deeper into the Clarcona and Gotha communities in unincorporated Orange County.

THROWBACK THURSDAY

DEC. 23, 1982

DEC. 19, 2002

The West Orange Times & Observer and the Southwest Orange Observer wish our readers and the community a Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays and Happy New Year! Here are some season’s greetings from Dec. 23, 1982, and Dec. 19, 2002.

PAPER CHAIN by Chris Moss, edited by David Steinberg

By Luis Campos

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

Tis e Tis e 2022 2022 Se on Se on Se on

HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS IN DOWNTOWN WINTER GARDEN HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS IN DOWNTOWN WINTER GARDEN

November 26

• Shop Small Business Saturday and Downtown Sidewalk Sale, Daylong

December 2

• Light Up Winter Garden, 6-9 pm

December 3

• A Very Merry Farmers Market, 8 am-1 pm

• Winter Garden Christmas Parade, 10 am

• Christmas Golf Cart Parade, 6 pm

• A Merry Winter Garden Light Show, 6-9 pm

December 4

• Horse Drawn Holiday Carriage Tours, 5:30-9:30 pm*

• A Merry Winter Garden Light Show, 6-9 pm

December 5

• Horse Drawn Holiday Carriage Tours, 5:30-9:30 pm*

December 6

• Horse Drawn Holiday Carriage Tours, 5:30-9:30 pm*

December 7

• Horse Drawn Holiday Carriage Tours, 5:30-9:30 pm*

December 8

• Holiday Boutique Stroll Downtown, 5-8 pm

December 9

• A Merry Winter Garden Light Show, 6-9 pm

• Live Holiday Music - Fridays on the Plaza, 7-9 pm

December 10

• A Very Merry Farmers Market (Santa Visit), 8 am-1 pm

• A Merry Winter Garden Light Show, 6-9 pm

December 11

• Horse Drawn Holiday Carriage Tours, 5:30-9:30 pm*

• A Merry Winter Garden Light Show, 6-9 pm

December 12

• Horse Drawn Holiday Carriage Tours, 5:30-9:30 pm*

December 13

• Horse Drawn Holiday Carriage Tours, 5:30-9:30 pm*

December 14

• Horse Drawn Holiday Carriage Tours, 5:30-9:30 pm*

December 16

• A Merry Winter Garden Light Show, 6-9 pm

• Live Holiday Music - Fridays on the Plaza, 7-9 pm

December 17

• A Very Merry Farmers Market (Santa Visit), 8 am-1 pm

• A Merry Winter Garden Light Show, 6-9 pm

December 18

• Horse Drawn Holiday Carriage Tours, 5:30-9:30 pm*

• A Merry Winter Garden Light Show, 6-9 pm

December 19

• Horse Drawn Holiday Carriage Tours, 5:30-9:30 pm*

December 20

• Horse Drawn Holiday Carriage Tours, 5:30-9:30 pm*

December 21

• Horse Drawn Holiday Carriage Tours, 5:30-9:30 pm*

December 23

• A Merry Winter Garden Light Show, 6-9 pm

• Live Holiday Music - Fridays on the Plaza, 7-9 pm

December 24

• A Very Merry Farmers Market, 8 am-1 pm

December 26

• Horse Drawn Holiday Carriage Tours, 5:30-9:30 pm*

December 27

• Horse Drawn Holiday Carriage Tours, 5:30-9:30 pm*

December 28

• Horse Drawn Holiday Carriage Tours, 5:30-9:30 pm*

December 30

• Live Holiday Music – Fridays on the Plaza, 7-9 pm

December 31

• A Very Merry Farmers Market, 8 am-1 pm *reservation/fee required