11.30.23 West Orange Times & Observer by Orange Observer

W EST O RA N G E T I M E S &

Observer Winter Garden, Ocoee, Oakland

YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.

Family ensures a Merry Christmas for others. 3A.

FREE • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2023

VOLUME 90, NO. 48

Mark Maciel withdraws from city election, endorses Chloe Johnson District 3 Commissioner Mark A. Maciel has announced his withdrawal from the city of Winter Garden’s general election to support and endorse a new candidate for his position: Chloe Johnson. SEE PAGE 6A.

STICKY SITUATION Light Up Independence featured ‘snow,’ the Grinch and all the S’mores you could eat. SEE PAGE 7A.

YOUR TOWN A WEEKEND FULL OF HOLIDAY EVENTS AND FUN If you’re looking to get into the holiday spirit, a variety of Christmas events will take place this weekend. Light Up Winter Garden is from 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, Dec. 1, along downtown Plant Street. The 36th annual event features activities, entertainment, a visit with Santa Claus and the traditional lighting of City Hall at 6:15 p.m. On Saturday, Dec. 2, the Winter Garden Christmas Parade will step off at 10 a.m. on South Dillard Street, head north and turn west on Plant Street. The Santa’s Coming to Hamlin event runs from 2 to 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 2, in the Hamlin Green Space, 14111 Shoreside Way, Winter Garden. The event features live music, entertainment, crafts, games, food trucks, vendors and more. From 3 to 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 2, the town of Oakland will hold its Santa’s Lane festivities in the town center. Guests can visit with Santa, enjoy “snow” on the West Orange Trail, go Christmas shopping, enjoy inflatables and more. At 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 2, the 11th annual Winter Garden Golf Cart Parade will make its way through historic downtown to spread holiday cheer. The parade loops around West Plant, entering eastbound from Park Avenue and looping westbound on Woodland Street.

Longtime Ocoee resident Tommy Ritten proudly displays both the American flag and the flag of the United States Marine Corps on the front of his home.

SEMPER FIDELIS Photos by Amy Quesinberry

A wooden case showcases Tommy Ritten’s dog tags, military photos, identification, and U.S. Marine Corps patches and service ribbons.

Oakland council split on canal costs Officials voted 3-2 to spend another $120,000 to correctly remove shoreline sediment from Lake Apopka. The first collection attempt failed. SEE PAGE 2A.

Members of Tommy Ritten’s family have served in every war and conflict since World War I. Ritten was a U.S. Marine during the Korean War. 4A.

Cluckerz on a roll West Orange’s newest food truck business delivers more than a tasty meal on wheels. SEE PAGE 5A.

OrangeObserver.com

OBSERVER | THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2023

Canal expense divides Oakland commission COMMUNITY EDITOR

The town of Oakland contracted with a company in March — at a cost of close to $120,000 — to restore the historical northerly flow of water from the Johns Lake Outfall Canal into Lake Apopka and reinforce the banks of the newly relocated canal with native vegetation. The contractor also agreed to remove sediment in and around two boat docks to the west of the canal. The work was done, but within a few days, the remaining sediment migrated back in and settled into the recently dredged areas. The Oakland Town Commission at its Nov. 14 meeting held a lengthy and contentious discussion before voting 3-2 to spend more money to try to correct the problem permanently. Mayor Kathy Stark and Commissioner Joseph McMullen voted against spending the money until more discussions were had. Town Manager Andy Stewart provided an update on the project. He said the contractor, Solitude Lake Management, did make

improvements to the canal and patched a portion that was breached, but the company didn’t use the proper machine to permanently remove the sediment. “To clarify the original scope of services, (Solitude) really just cleaned out an 8-foot section of sand in front of each of the docks to the north,” Stewart said. “None of that sand was really removed.” “This is exactly what I’m talking about,” said Stark, who was opposed to spending more money on the project. “The project hasn’t been buttoned up. … There are questions that haven’t been answered. We spent about $120,000 on a project that wasn’t buttoned up, and I’m not going to do that again.” She then rnead a prepared statement: “There is no one that wants to fix this canal more than me. I do believe that we do not have a good plan right now. It is not engineered, and we need a plan for the whole canal and our residents who live near it, including those on Johns Lake. When we put our budget together this year, we were clear that it would be a tight budget with no funds for extras. Borrowing money after we have spent over $100,000 already seems drastic, and we are really not at the point that we can make that decision in good conscience.”

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n Oakland Town Commissioners accepted a resolution that establishes the easternmost border of the golf cart zone in the town and allows for a four-way stop at Oakland Avenue and Winters Landing Drive. According to Florida statute, golf carts cannot cross a county road unless it’s at a controlled intersection. n Oakland Police Chief Darron Esan presented Officer Samaria Lake with the Officer of the Quarter award, which included a certificate and a guardian angel light that sits on her shoulder and lights up at night. Esan said she was chosen because she performs every task every day with a smile, teaches report writing to new recruits, offered to serve as the town’s code enforcement officer while the town looked to permanently fill the position, always looks for ways to improve herself as an officer, is

Commissioner Rick Polland said, “If we don’t fix the canal, this could happen all over again.” “But here we are again spending another $120,000,” Stark said. “In my mind, this is the right thing to do to get the sediment removed,” Commissioner Mike Satterfield said. Stewart said the town has about $1.2 million in reserves,

a valuable part of the agency and exemplifies what it means to be a member of the Oakland Police Department.

by the town’s auditor. The budget amendment reduces the total revenues and expenditures from $10,537,098 to $10,021,586.

n Commissioners approved the consent agenda, which included the following: a certification that engineering firms CPH LLC, Kimley-Horn and Associates, Bentley Group Inc. and Pegasus Engineering are prequalified to assist in the planning, technical and design needs of the town; and a vote to send a letter of opposition to the Florida Turnpike Enterprise for a future project that would entail FTE acquiring prime commercial property along the West Colonial Drive corridor for use as compensating storage in the Johns Lake floodplain.

n The town passed a resolution that acknowledges the town owns 69 properties within its municipal limits. The Live Local Act was approved by the Florida Legislature and signed into law and requires all municipalities to prepare an inventory list of property that is appropriate for affordable housing. It was determined the town does not have land suitable for such houses. ‘While we do not have property for this for affordable housing, we have over the last 30 years done three (Community Development Block Grants), (rebuilt homes),” Mayor Kathy Stark said. “We’ve donated to Habitat for Humanity, Homes in Partnership. We’ve done a lot of things to help people stay in their homes and be able to afford them.”

n The commission approved a resolution that states the town recognizes a $200,000 transfer from the Utility Fund Budget to the General Fund a recommended

and spending $120,000 would mean spending about 8% of the town’s reserves. “And that’s the money for a rainy day,” Stark said. “In my mind, it is the right thing to do, because we committed,” Satterfield said. “Nobody wants this more than I do, but I think we’re premature in trying to pass this tonight in spending this amount of money,” Stark said. Ward Britt, one of the lakefront residents affected by the canal runoff, said he has a mere six inches of water at his dock. “If you were in this

situation, you’d be more willing to spend the money,” Britt said. “I’ve lost $250,000 probably in (property) value.” “I am trying to look after the whole town,” Stark said. “The whole town.” The vote passed, and Sea Level Development LLC, of New Smyrna Beach, was hired to do the work, which will include dredging, marine excavation and reclamation. The project should take less than 60 days to complete.

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IN OTHER NEWS

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OrangeObserver.com

OBSERVER | THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2023

This year, Franklin, Tiberius and Patricia Bellamy have collected more than 200 toys for those in need.

Annabelle Sikes

JOY TO THE WORLD ANNABELLE SIKES NEWS EDITOR

ike many, the Bellamy family knows the power a Christmas miracle possesses. For Winter Garden residents Patricia, Franklin and Tiberius Bellamy, the joy of brightening other lives becomes the magic of the holiday season. The family has worked together since November 2022 to collect more than 200 toys to donate to those in need this year through the Holiday Magic program with Embrace Families. For many served by Embrace Families, the holidays can be a heavy reminder of the instability, food insecurity and struggle that is a daily reality for many local children and families. The Holiday Magic program allows community members the opportunity to serve others in several ways, including through a Holiday Magic Toy Drive. Without the help of partners such as the Bellamys, Morgan Clement, community engagement director with Embrace Families, said the toy drive would not be possible. “Last year, our Holiday Magic campaign distributed more than 6,000 gifts to more than 1,500 kids,” Clement said. “This year’s goal is 10,000 toys, which will be distributed to all of the kids we serve — about 2,300 on any given day this year. We believe

the kids in our care should experience the joy of the season like every other child, and the support of partners, like the Bellamys, make that possible. We couldn’t do it without them.” MAKING A LIST, CHECKING IT TWICE

The Bellamy family moved from Ohio to Orlando to escape the cold weather and have lived in the Winter Garden area since 2015. With a passion for children and helping others, the family began to foster and explore adoption. However, everything changed when the pandemic hit and Patricia Bellamy, a disabled veteran, had her right lung collapse twice. Although she was encouraged to stay home to rest, recover and lower her risk of illness, she knew God had other plans for her. Unable to take on the responsibility of fostering and adoption with her sickness, Patricia Bellamy’s mother suggested the family get in touch with Embrace Families after seeing the love the family had for helping people in need in the community and the unique way the family was able to connect with children. The first year following the pandemic, the family collected more than 50 bicycles equipped with flashing helmets and stuffed animals strapped to the seats to donate to the organization. Since then, every year on Black Friday, the Bellamy family begins the

yearlong collection campaign, finding ways to get the best bang for their buck. And they admit, it’s a commitment that takes a full year to achieve. “Fostering the children and even connecting with their siblings made our lives significantly fuller,” Patricia Bellamy said. “I’ve been collecting toys my whole life, and I felt like God was calling me to not stay still but to do something different.” The family has now perfected the collection of toys down to a science. Patricia Bellamy starts the collection with the sales of the bigger items on Black Friday. Instead of buying all the toys at one time, she budgets specific amounts throughout the year. She searches for the best sales, waiting outside local stores like Walmart and Target before they open, earning her superstar status recognition with many of the managers. She takes as many of the toys as she can, but also makes sure she leaves some for others. The age range for the toys varies from newborns to age 18. SEASON OF GIVING

Growing up in poverty, Patricia Bellamy knows all too well what it’s like to go without during the holiday season. She grew up relying on the generosity of others. “My mom told me to not be in that position and to always do better,” she said. “I wanted to make sure my family and our son would never be in that

position. I wanted to help other families. I felt that way even when I was in poverty. I’ve always been appreciative of the kindness of strangers. I think if I didn’t have that, I wouldn’t be where I’m at in my life now.” Franklin Bellamy said he also has had the same passion for helping others since he was a child. As the oldest siblings and the children of oldest siblings, the two have always had a natural instinct to offer care and protection for others. “We never had birthdays or holidays when we were in poverty; they were just days,” Patricia Bellamy said. “Now, I go way overboard for our son. When he unwraps a gift, if I can feel like another child is having that same moment of happiness, then I’m happy. That’s my Christmas.” The couple’s son also has inherited the same passion. “(My favorite part) is helping other people,” Tiberius Bellamy, 9, said. In addition to Embrace Families, the family has donated time and necessities to organizations such as Matthew’s Hope, Students with a Goal, local churches and homeless students in the Orange County Public Schools system. This year, with her lungs growing more stable, Patricia Bellamy will have the opportunity to become even more involved. She plans to travel to Embrace Families in Maitland to watch the children pick out the toys and help to wrap the ones selected. Her hope is to continue to help change the world for the better. “I want to create a sense of hope, even if it’s just for a second,” she said. “Everyone deserves that moment of joy.”

“I want to create a sense of hope, even if it’s just for a second. No matter what someone is going through, to just not feel left out for one second. Everyone deserves that moment of joy.” — Patricia Bellamy

EMBRACE FAMILIES WEBSITE: embracefamilies.org CONTACT: Morgan.Clement@ embracefamilies.org

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Patricia, Franklin and Tiberius Bellamy put together an annual toy collection drive to benefit local nonprofit organizations that serve children and families.

OrangeObserver.com

OBSERVER | THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2023

Observer “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

An old newspaper clipping shows a teen-aged Tommy Ritten, left, fighting off a fire as a junior firefighter with the Volunteer Fire Department in North Miami.

Design Editor / Jessica Eng, jeng@OrangeObserver.com News Editor / Annabelle Sikes, asikes@OrangeObserver.com Community Editor / Amy Quesinberry, amyq@OrangeObserver.com Sports Editor / Sam Albuquerque, sama@OrangeObserver.com

A photo of Tommy Ritten, front right, and his platoon was taken at Parris Island, South Carolina.

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The West Orange Times, West Orange Times & Observer and Southwest Orange Observer are published once weekly, on Thursdays. The papers can be found in many commercial locations throughout West Orange and Southwest Orange. If you wish to subscribe, visit our website, OrangeObserver.com, call (407) 656-2121 or visit our office, 661 Garden Commerce Parkway, Suite 180, Winter Garden.

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SEND US YOUR NEWS Tommy and Jannette Ritten raised seven children in Ocoee: Joan Crowe, Thomas “Craig” Ritten, Lisa Stallard, David Ritten, Michael Ritten, Jimmy Ritten and Paul Ritten.

Seventy years later, veteran recalls Korean War Wrecker Service, located at Franklin Street and Bowness Road in Ocoee. He owned that company for about a decade and had dreams of handing it to one or more of his and Jannette’s seven children one day. When Joan, Craig, Lisa, David, Michael, Jimmy and Paul showed no interest in the business, Ritten sold it. “I didn’t want to hold them back,” he said. “They all got a good education. One went into the Air Force, two of them were playing football in college, one went in the Army.” Ritten shared his love of fishing, hunting and camping with the children, and they made many excursions to North Carolina, as well as to Osceola and Seminole counties. Several of them still live in the Central Florida area. Ritten also has 14 grandchildren and six greatgrandchildren.

AMY QUESINBERRY COMMUNITY EDITOR

ommy Ritten waited until he was 18 to join the United States Marine Corps because he didn’t want his parents to feel guilty if they allowed him to join as a minor and something bad happened to him. It was 1951, and the U.S. had been sending troops to East Asia — and Ritten found himself there, too, as a truck mechanic and driver in the Korean War. The teen from North Miami was stationed with the First Marine Air Wing in Kunson, Korea, where he worked on vehicles and worried about snipers during convoys because the mechanic always rode in the last truck. “I was just a scared 18-yearold,” Ritten said. “We had to hit the foxholes two or three times a night. They would get signals and alerts that we were fixing to get hit. Never did. We were in a pretty safe place.” In 1953 — 70 years ago — Ritten was on a ship headed to Korea for his second tour with the Marines. He had served three years in the military — part of that as a truck mechanic and driver in the Korean War — and re-enlisted so he could continue fighting in the East Asian country. He never made it back to Korea. “I was in Hawaii, and when we were passing by the (U.S.S.) Arizona, we heard over the PA that there was a cease-fire,” he said. “The U.S. had everything on the water headed that way.” Ritten reached the temporary rank of sergeant while in Korea. “I got paid for it,” he said. “That $125 a month looked good.” The military medals Ritten received for his service are displayed in a shadow box that also contains his uniform photo, an American flag, his dog tags, two commemorative war coins, a few uniform patches and a Catholic prayer book. The

REMEMBERING KOREA

Courtesy photos

Tommy Ritten, left, was one of six children and went on to have seven children of his own.

case hangs on a wall in the 91-yearold’s Ocoee home next to a rifle and bayonet like the one he carried in the war. The wall also is decorated with 8x10 framed photographs of family members who have served in every war and conflict since World War I, beginning with an uncle and continuing with a cousin, brother and two sons. A collection of Korean War ballcaps completes the display. LIFE AFTER THE MARINES

When Ritten returned home after the military in 1954, his parents were living on a farm in Orange Lake, and he found work in the area as a dump truck mechanic. The job took him all over the state. Later that year, he married his wife,

KOREAN WAR The United States officially entered the Korean War June 27, 1950. The U.S. supported the Republic of Korea (commonly called South Korea), in repelling an invasion from the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (commonly called North Korea). The fighting ended July 27, 1953, when the Korean Armistice Agreement was signed.

Jannette, and the two made their home in Jacksonville to be close to his next job with a paving company. The Rittens moved to Ocoee in the early 1960s, and he started Ritten’s

Ritten received several invitations to return to Korea to reunite with other war veterans, but he said he always was too busy with work and family to travel overseas. He said he never had any desire to travel back to Asia. He does have mementos of his time there, including a hardback photo book issued to all war veterans by the former president of South Korea. She also sent face masks to veterans during the COVID-19 pandemic. Ritten used to belong to a Korean War veterans group in Clermont, but he stopped going when the membership dwindled from 65 members to just one. “If you talk to a Korean veteran, he’s going to be 91-plus,” Ritten said. He spends his days tinkering in his yard and piddling around in his house. He gets together with his children. He frequently visits Jannette, now his ex-wife, who lives in an assisted-living facility. Family is everything, he said.

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Philanthropy drives food truck business Chris Manzano, an Ocoee-area resident, started Cluckerz Chicken to help those in need and inspire his young son. ANNABELLE SIKES NEWS EDITOR

For decades, Chris Manzano put his culinary dreams on hold to lessen the burden on others. Now, Manzano, an Ocoee-area resident, is pursuing his passions with the opening of his food truck: Cluckerz Chicken. Although known for its crispy chicken tenders, Cluckerz takes pride in not just its food but also its ability to help those who need it the most in the community. “My family has always been really big about helping out,” Manzano said. “I want to make sure that my staff is taken care of, and I want to give back to the community as much as possible. … My favorite part about this whole journey has been seeing the excitement in my son, Parker. I know he doesn’t quite understand everything because he’s only 3, but he always tells me when he gets big that he wants to help me on the food truck. ... Stuff like that melts my heart.” SPRING CHICKEN

Manzano, originally from a small farm town outside Indianapolis, moved to Port Charlotte when he was about 6 years old and grew up there. From a young age, he always had an interest in culinary arts. One of Manzano’s first jobs in a restaurant was washing dishes at a yacht club when he was 15 years old. With his quick ability to connect with people, he worked his way up to front of the house positions such as serving and bartending. He served in high-end restaurants for the majority of his years. In high school, Manzano participated in a vocational culinary arts program through which he won a competition and was awarded a small scholarship to attend Johnson & Wales University in Miami.

To cover the incredibly expensive tuition costs, Manzano’s mother, who worked as a nurse, offered to pick up a second job. “I lied to her and told her that I had lost interest in attending,” he said. “I didn’t want her to have to work any harder than what she was already doing as a single mother to support us.” Instead, Manzano eventually moved to Orlando to attend the University of Central Florida, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in legal studies and law. His plan was to attend law school at the University of Florida, but he decided to take a short break to work in the service industry to pay off his student loans. While bartending at Cabana Bay at Universal Studios, Manzano met his girlfriend at the time, and the couple had a son. Instead of going back to attend law school, Manzano’s focus shifted to supporting his family. He took a job at Huey Magoo’s, working a couple of days a week to help out with bills. He was quickly offered a supervisor position, and he shot up in management. Manzano also served as the chamber representative for Huey Magoo’s and got involved with the West Orange Chamber of Commerce. FLYING THE COOP

Although Manzano said Huey Magoo’s did a lot of community outreach, he craved doing more. That’s when the idea for Cluckerz was formed. The concept is co-owned by Manzano, his sister, Samantha Orand, who lives in Colorado, and his mother, Kimberly McCormick, who lives in Weeki Wachee. Manzano said he was searching for a unique food truck concept that would cater to children and families. When Manzano’s stepfather died

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in December 2021, his mother had an interest in giving back to him and his sister in a way that was meaningful. “She didn’t want to just give us cash,” he said. “It definitely would have just been easier to franchise out with Huey Magoo’s, but my mother, sister, son and girlfriend (Sarah Pickett) encouraged me to follow my own passions. ... They always had this unwavering belief in me.” Manzano had a trailer custombuilt by Concession Nation in Deerfield Beach. The menu includes items such as mozzarella sticks, tender meals, sandwiches, wraps, fries, garlic toast and Italian ice. Manzano believes in quality products, so he spends the extra money for ingredients while still keeping the meals affordable for his customers. The first place Manzano set up was July 19 at the ARIUM Lakeview in Ocoee. Three days later, he attended a car show in Ocoee. Then, a week later, Cluckerz fed its largest event to date — 250 teachers at Mater Brighton Lakes Academy in Kissimmee.

Serving the Community Since 1966

W.Kevin Cox, M.D.

Jose A. Torres, M.D.

Jacob L. Cox, M.D.

Courtesy photos

Chris Manzano is making his family proud with his recently created food truck business: Cluckerz Chicken.

COMMUNITY CARETAKER

Manzano is pushing forward with the the business to accomplish his main goal: helping the community. “I’ve always wanted to give back and help,” he said. “I grew up extremely poor. If you need a meal, you can always come to Cluckerz and get a meal. If you can’t afford it, we’ll find a way to get you fed.” By giving back 10% of his proceeds on an event-by-event basis, the business is able to help more organizations per month. Manzano also is planning community giveback days where the food truck can set up around town and feed people for free. Cluckerz was a vendor at Mat-

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OBSERVER | THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2023

Longtime Winter Garden commissioner withdraws from city Saturday, December 2

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NEWS EDITOR

Incumbent District 3 Commissioner Mark A. Maciel has announced his withdrawal from the city of Winter Garden’s municipal General Election to support and endorse a new candidate for his position: Chloe Johnson. Maciel announced his decision Thursday, Nov. 16, two days after the city announced the election qualifying results Tuesday, Nov. 14. “It has been my honor to serve the residents of Winter Garden these past eight years,” Maciel said. “I felt it was time to make way for (a) new generation and fresh leadership in District 3. During my term as commissioner, the city of Winter Garden has executed key land purchases for affordable housing, secured (more than) $20 million for the redevelopment of east Winter Garden, annexed key parcels for the betterment of the residents, spotlighted (the) important history of our east Winter Garden neighborhood, championed the redevelopment of Dyson’s Plaza and Center Street, reduced crime, fought for smart development and more. “I’m so very grateful to city staff and their tireless efforts, particularly, our City Manager Jon (C.) Williams,” Maciel said. “I’m so grateful for the unyielding support and leadership from our great mayor, John Rees, and the rest of the Winter Garden commission. I will truly miss our time together. … But I will still be here to serve our great city whenever called upon.”

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A NEW GENERATION

Maciel said he decided months ago to support and endorse a new candidate for his position: Chloe Johnson. “I’ve been working with Chloe Johnson for many years and witnessed her unyielding commitment to our city,” he said. “She has served diligently on the city’s Community Redevelopment Agency, One Winter Garden, and I recently appointed her to the Planning and Zoning Board. She is well prepared for the challenge, as there is much more work to do. I’m looking forward to supporting Chloe in her campaign for city commissioner, District 3.” Johnson, 36, was born and raised in Winter Garden. For a time, her father moved the family away, but several years ago, she returned to the city with her husband to raise their own family. The couple has four children, and Johnson said the family loves living in her hometown. “(District 3) is special to me, because when I was young it was this district where I saw and learned from good people who were helping each other during hard times,” she said. “It inspired me to do the same when I was able, and it is from those early years here in this district that I have come to where I am today. I love serving and helping others.” Johnson said District 3 is a diverse community that includes the historic east Winter Garden neighborhood, which is where she was born and currently lives. “In addition to that, and many other wonderful residential communities, the district also covers many of our commercial areas,” she said. “Areas such as those east of Dillard and Daniels … and south of Plant Street, including the Winter Garden Village open-air shopping center; these are critical aspects of our local economy and its success. The unique and bold colors of varying aspects of District 3 make it the best district to live in. We have many different socioeconomic groups, which means many different needs, but we are united by the commonality that is the Winter Garden lifestyle. We all want family-friendly, safe neighborhoods and low-den-

CANDIDATES

Winter Garden voters will have several choices to make in the municipal general election, which will take place from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday, March 19, 2024. Chloe Johnson will run against candidate Karen McNeil in District 3. In District 2, candidates Danny “DJ” Culberson Jr. and Iliana R. Jones will face off against incumbent Ron Mueller. Current District 4 Commissioner Colin Sharman is unopposed, so no election will be required. Polling locations are to be determined. For more information, contact City Clerk Angela J. Grimmage, supervisor of municipal elections, at (407) 656-4111, Ext. 2297.

sity charm.” Johnson said receiving Maciel’s support is the truest honor she can have regarding the upcoming election. “Commissioner Maciel has done an incredible job for eight years serving our district and all of Winter Garden,” she said. “I first met the commissioner while working together on the needs of our community. To think that he feels I am the person for the job is truly motivating, and I do not intend to let him down, or any of our residents. I will bring my unique perspective to the table of having come from the historic east Winter Garden neighborhood, and I will learn from him, as I know I have much to learn. However, I am motivated and empowered to bring this community together. “I am ready to serve all the residents in District 3 and if they, like Commissioner Maciel, see me fit to be their next commissioner, I am ready to do all that is necessary to serve them well,” she said. “I have been meeting with residents and other stakeholders and look forward to talking one on one with as many residents as possible. I am eager for this new chapter of service in my life.” Johnson lives by what Christ spoke in John 13:34-35: “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” “I honestly think this opportunity chose me; it aligns with my purpose,” she said. “Trust God, do the right thing and serve others. I want to be an example for others to do what you love and love what you do. Many people started to encourage me to run for commissioner. When I told my husband, he said he already saw the vision and would be there for me every step of the way. I began to feel God calling me toward it. We see a world where politics is often filled with division and anger; it does not have to be like that here at the local level. I believe in love toward others, and I believe in community. We are better together.” Johnson runs her own nonprofit “I am Her,” where she has sought to uplift, build and encourage women in a positive environment. She also serves as the vice president of One Winter Garden; serves on the Community Redevelopment Agency Advisory Board, Orange County’s Citizens Safety Task Force and the city’s Planning & Zoning Board; and is the children’s director at Eight Waves. She volunteers with Global Not Local and Hope Along the Way, both of which are giving organizations formed out of District 3 in Winter Garden.

“It has been my honor to serve the residents of Winter Garden these past eight years. I felt it was time to make way for (a) new generation and fresh leadership in District 3.” — Commissioner Mark A. Maciel

OrangeObserver.com

OBSERVER | THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2023

Children were eager to get candy from the elves.

A deejay kept the holiday spirit alive with dance tunes while snow machines allowed attendees to feel like they were in a Hallmark movie.

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esidents of the Independence community of Horizon West gathered to make holiday memories Friday, Nov. 17, at the Light Up Independence event. Several fire pits were set up around the entrance to the neighborhood, and families grabbed bags of chocolate, graham crackers and marshmallows to make S’mores. Falling snow kept everyone dancing, and the Grinch and several elves showed up to dance and hand out candy and glow sticks. At 6:30 p.m., thousands of white lights were turned on to reveal the Independence Christmas tree, rows of roadside trees and the clock tower. — AMY QUESINBERRY

Enjoying S’mores, hot chocolate and candy canes were Dorothea Hinton, Emillia Gerow, Ellianna Gerow, Nora Leatherbee and Lyra Leatherbee. Right: Families took turns posing in front of the lighted tree.

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OrangeObserver.com

OBSERVER | THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2023

REAL ESTATE

DeVore Design

The home at 5054 Sawyer Cove Way, Windermere, sold Nov. 1, for $2,810,000. It was the largest transaction in the Horizon West area from Oct. 30 to Nov. 5. The sellers were represented by Julie and Charles Harder, The Harder Team, Coldwell Banker Real Estate.

Sawyer Sound estate sells for $2,810,000 A

home in the Sawyer

WATERLEIGH

The home at 16219 Point Rock Drive, Winter Garden, sold Oct. 31, for $829,286. Built in 2023, it has four bedrooms, three-andone-half baths and 3,227 square feet. Days on market: Four.

Sound community near

Horizon West topped all West Orange-area residential real-estate transactions

The home at 18339 Oliver Twist Way, Winter Garden, sold Oct. 30, for $712,416. Built in 2023, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,931 square feet. Days on market: 33.

from Oct. 30 to Nov. 5. The home at 5054 Sawyer Cove Way, Windermere,

The townhouse at 13507 Sagestone Drive, Winter Garden, sold Oct. 30, for $427,740. Built in 2023, it has three bedrooms, twoand-one-half baths and 1,817 square feet. Days on market: 25.

sold Nov. 1, for $2,810,000. Built in 2020, it has five bedrooms, six-and-onehalf baths and 5,353 square feet. Days on market: Four. The sellers were represented by Julie Harder, Coldwell Banker Realty. These are the highestselling homes in each community in West Orange. DR. PHILLIPS BAY POINT

The home at 9154 Bay Point Drive, Orlando, sold Nov. 3, for $2,200,000. Built in 1979, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 2,687 square feet. Days on market: Eight. ESTATES AT PARKSIDE

The home at 8354 Ludington Circle, Orlando, sold Oct. 31, for $1,340,000. Built in 2019, it has eight bedrooms, five baths and 5,169 square feet. Days on market: 190. HIDDEN ESTATES

The home at 5503 Pine Shade Court, Orlando, sold Nov. 3, for $675,000. Built in 1986, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,303 square feet. Days on market: 27. NORTH BAY

The home at 9102 Galleon Drive, Orlando, sold Oct. 30, for $505,000. Built in 1986, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,900 square feet. Days on market: Six. PHILLIPS GROVE

The home at 7868 Wandering Way, Orlando, sold Nov. 3, for $925,000. Built in 2021, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 2,909 square feet. Days on market: 119. RUBY LAKE

The home at 10718 Citron Oaks Drive, Orlando, sold Nov. 1, for $985,000. Built in 2018, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 2,881 square feet. Days on market: 12. SAND LAKE HILLS

The home at 6925 Sugarbush Drive, Orlando, sold Oct. 31, for $515,000. Built in 1979, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,635 square feet. Days on market: Six.

Courtesy photo

The home and property at 803 W. Second Ave., Windermere, sold Nov. 1, for $2,550,000. This .7-acre waterfront property features 125 feet of sandy shoreline, concrete seawall and views of Wauseon Bay. The sellers were represented by Amanda Black, Upside Real Estate Group.

The townhouse at 13495 Sagestone Drive, Winter Garden, sold Oct. 30, for $423,740. Built in 2023, it has three bedrooms, twoand-one-half baths and 1,567 square feet. Days on market: 22. WATERMARK

The home at 15047 Guava Bay Drive, Winter Garden, sold Oct. 31, for $610,000. Built in 2020, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,072 square feet. Days on market: 62.

SHADOW BAY SPRINGS

The home at 4948 Spring Run Ave., Orlando, sold Nov. 2, for $550,000. Built in 1983, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,067 square feet. Days on market: 11. VISTA CAY AT HARBOR SQUARE

The condo at 5012 Shoreway Loop, No. 204, Orlando, sold Nov. 3, for $650,000. Built in 2007, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,097 square feet. Days on market: 56.

The townhouse at 9690 Emerald Berry Drive, Winter Garden, sold Oct. 31, for $435,000. Built in 2019, it has three bedrooms, twoand-one-half baths and 1,810 square feet. Days on market: 41.

GOTHA

WICKHAM PARK

The townhouse at 12880 Calderdale Ave., Windermere, sold Oct. 31, for $410,000. Built in 2010, it has three bedrooms, two-andone-half baths and 1,505 square feet. Days on market: 41.

FALCON POINTE

The home at 3867 Shadowind Way, Gotha, sold Oct. 31, for $562,500. Built in 1999, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,248 square feet. Days on market: 17.

HORIZON WEST

ENCORE AT OVATION

The home at 13107 Spring Grove Way, Winter Garden, sold Nov. 2, for $640,000. Built in 2021, it has four bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 2,807 square feet. Days on market: 76. HIGHLAND RIDGE

The home at 14364 Braemar St., Winter Garden, sold Oct. 31, for $517,945. Built in 2023, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,788 square feet. Days on market: 85. The home at 14298 Braemar St., Winter Garden, sold Oct. 31, for $515,890. Built in 2023, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,114 square feet. Days on market: Eight. HICKORY HAMMOCK

The townhouse at 15624 Orange Harvest Loop, Winter Garden, sold Oct. 31, for $401,000. Built in 2017, it has three bedrooms, two-andone-half baths and 2,422 square feet. Days on market: 121. INDEPENDENCE

The home at 7109 Blue Indigo Crescent, Winter Garden, sold Oct. 31, for $630,000. Built in 2006, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,709 square feet. Days on market: 23.

realtor.com

The home at 9154 Bay Point Drive, Orlando, sold Nov. 3, for $2,200,000. It was the largest transaction in Dr. Phillips from Oct. 30 to Nov. 5. The sellers were represented by George Stringer, Coldwell Banker Realty.

The townhouse at 5629 New Independence Parkway, Winter Garden, sold Oct. 30, for $430,000. Built in 2012, it has four bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 2,131 square feet of living area. Days on market: 23.

ORCHARD HILLS

LAKE BURDEN SOUTH

The home at 15144 Shonan Gold Drive, Winter Garden, sold Oct. 31, for $1,900,000. Built in 2019, it has four bedrooms, five baths and 4,056 square feet. Days on market: Five.

The townhouse at 11569 Center Lake Drive, Windermere, sold Nov. 3, for $358,000. Built in 2007, it has two bedrooms, twoand-one-half baths and 1,340 square feet. Days on market: Three. LAKESHORE PRESERVE

The home at 15755 Cutter Sail Place, Winter Garden, sold Oct. 31, for $870,000. Built in 2020, it has four bedrooms, three-andone-half baths and 3,022 square feet of living area. Days on market: 58. LATHAM PARK SOUTH

The home at 9390 Bradleigh Drive, Winter Garden, sold Nov. 3, for $775,000. Built in 2019, it has four bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 3,090 square feet of living area of living area. Days on market: 13.

The home at 4355 Old Sycamore Loop sold Nov. 3, for $579,000. Built in 2015, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 2,224 square feet. Days on market: Eight. OVERLOOK 2 AT HAMLIN

STOREY GROVE

The home at 11181 Great Rock St., Winter Garden, sold Oct. 31, for $586,630. Built in 2023, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,683 square feet. The townhouse at 10678 Words Drive, Winter Garden, sold Nov. 3, for $440,285. Built in 2023, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,992 square feet. SUMMERLAKE

The townhouse at 8108 Wood Sage Drive, Winter Garden, sold Nov. 2, for $432,000. Built in 2016, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 1,842 square feet.

WINDERMERE TRAILS

The home at 9149 Outlook Rock Trail, Windermere, sold Nov. 3, for $995,000. Built in 2015, it has six bedrooms, four baths and 5,010 square feet. Days on market: 12. WINDING BAY

The home at 15014 Lebeau Loop, Winter Garden, sold Oct. 31, for $697,900. Built in 2023, it has five bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 3,115 square feet. Days on market: 40.

OCOEE

LAKE MEADOW LANDING

The townhouse at 1874 Terrapin Road, Ocoee, sold Nov. 3, for $460,000. Built in 2022, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,100 square feet. Days on market: 63. SOUTH SPRINGDALE

The home at 475 Wurst Road, Ocoee, sold Nov. 3, for $287,000. Built in 1979, it has three bedrooms, one bath and 1,300 square feet. Days on market: Seven. VILLAGES OF WESMERE

The home at 311 Partridge Pea Lane, Ocoee, sold Oct. 31, for $510,000. Built in 2013, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,419 square feet. Days on market: 34.

OrangeObserver.com

SNAPSHOT Total Sales: 67 High Sale Price: $2,810,000 Low Sale Price: $168,000 WENTWORTH

The townhouse at 2227 Brancaster Circle, Ocoee, sold Oct. 31, for $280,000. Built in 2004, it has two bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,145 square feet. WESMERE

OBSERVER | THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2023

WINTER GARDEN BLACK LAKE

The home at 149 Shongi Ave., Winter Garden, sold Oct. 30, for $325,000. Built in 2004, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,260 square feet. Days on market: Five. BRADFORD CREEK

The home at 14222 Creekbed Circle, Winter Garden, sold Oct. 31, for $650,000. Built in 2015, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 2,418 square feet. Days on market: 194.

The home at 549 Laurenburg Lane, Ocoee, sold Oct. 30, for $575,000. Built in 1991, it has five bedrooms, three baths and 2,884 square feet. Days on market: 152.

FOXCREST

WESTYN BAY

First Baptist Church Ocoee Church of God Pastor Tim Grosshans Pastor Thomas Odom LAKE AVALON ESTATES 125 E. Plant St, Winter Garden 1105 N. Lakewood Ave.,Ocoee The home at 2807 Williams Road, Winter Garden, sold Nov. 1, for (407) 656-2352 (407) 656-8011 $1,005,000. Built in 1956, it has five Sundays: 8:30 AM Traditional bedrooms, three baths and 2,589 EPISCOPAL 9:45 AM Bible Study square feet of living area. Days on Church of the Messiah 11 AM Contemporary market: 97. 241 N. Main St., Winter Garden Wednesdays: 6 PM Awana Services: 8, 9:30, & 11 AM, OAKLAND PARK 4 PM (French & Creole), 7 PM The home at 1201 Union Club Drive, 2nd Campus: Winter Garden, sold Oct. 31, for www.ChurchoftheMessiah.com First Baptist Church $1,180,000. Built in 2014, it has four @ Horizon West bedrooms, three-and-one-half METHODIST baths and 2,793 square feet. Days on 15304 Tilden Road, First United Methodist market: Two. Winter Garden www.fumcwg.org Sundays: 9:45 AM All Ages The home at 936 Civitas Way, 125 N. Lakeview Ave., www.FBCWG.org Winter Garden, sold Nov. 3, for Winter Garden STARKE LAKE BAPTIST $742,500. Built in 2018, itANGLICAN has three METHODIST NON-DEN 656-1135 CHURCH bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths Starke Lake Baptist Church (407) FIRST UNITED METHODIST Services: 9 AM Traditional PURPOSE C ANGLICAN COMMUNITY and 2,234 square feet. Days on PO Box 520,Pritchard 611 W Ave, Ocoee Pastor Jeff CHURCH 13640 W. Colo 10:45 AM Contemporary FELLOWSHIP CHURCH market: 15. Pastor Jeff Pritchard PO Box 520 611 W Ave., 125 N. Lakeview Ave Winter Garden Rector The Rev. Canon Tim Trombitas Also viewable on YouTube Winter Garden (407) 656-2351 Ocoee Service Times 9:00 AM and 11:15 AM 407-654-9661 SANCTUARY AT TWIN WATERS 1146 East Plant St, Winter Garden www.starkelakebaptist.org Phone – 407-656-1135 Fellowship 9:4 (407) 656-2351 The home at 1647 Cranleigh Drive, SERVICE 10:00 AM SUNDAY Winter Garden, sold Oct. 30, for Web: fumcwg.org www.StarkeLakeBaptist.org Find us at: Theacf.net

CYPRESS CHASE

The home at 9555 Pecky Cypress Way, Orlando, sold Nov. 1, for $480,000. Built in 2005, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 1,746 square feet of living area. Days on market: 15.

WEST ORANGE OXFORD MOOR

The home at 5746 Oxford Moor Blvd., Windermere, sold Oct. 30, for $1,120,000. Built in 2005, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 3,793 square feet. Days on market: 22. SAWYER SOUND

The home at 5054 Sawyer Cove Way, Windermere, sold Nov. 1, for $2,810,000. Built in 2020, it has five bedrooms, six-and-one-half baths and 5,353 square feet. Days on market: Four. WATERSTONE

The home at 11423 Waterstone Loop, Windermere, sold Nov. 1, for $2,300,000. Built in 2014, it has four bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths and 5,435 square feet. Days on market: 265.

WINDERMERE

ALADAR ON LAKE BUTLER

The home and property at 803 W. Second Ave., Windermere, sold Nov. 1, for $2,550,000. Built in 1952, it has four bedrooms, three-andone-half baths and 2,819 square feet of living area. Days on market: 44. KEENE’S POINTE

The home at 11351 Preserve View Drive, Windermere, sold Nov. 3, for $1,500,000. Built in 2004, it has four bedrooms, four baths and 3,853 square feet. Days on market: 41. RESERVE AT BELMERE

The home at 1220 Lake Whitney Drive, Windermere, sold Nov. 2, for $2,260,000. Built in 2007, it has six bedrooms, seven baths and 6,184 square feet. Days on market: Five. The home at 1620 Lake Rhea Drive, Windermere, sold Nov. 1, for $1,350,000. Built in 2003, it has four bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths and 4,635 square feet. Days on market: 91. SILVER WOODS

The home at 9012 Chapman Oak Court, Windermere, sold Oct. 31, for $550,000. Built in 1987, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,079 square feet. Days on market: 23.

CHURCH OF GOD

CHURCH

$979,000. Built in 2020, it has four bedrooms, four baths and 4,075 square feet of living area. BAPTIST Days on market: 84. BEULAH BAPTIST

CHURCH OF GOD

OCOEE CHURCHChurch OF GOD Victory Baptist Pastor Thomas Odom & Christian Academy 1105 N. Lakewood Ocoee 1601 A.D. Mims Avenue, Rd,Ocoee 407-656-8011 Pastor Casey Butner (407) 656-3097 SOUTHERN PINES 671 Beulah Rd, Winter Garden The condo at 303 Southern Pecan Sunday: 11 AM & 6 PM EPISCOPAL 407-656-3342 | BeulahBaptistWG.org Wednesday: Circle, No. 204, Winter Garden, 7 PM CHURCH OF THE MESSIAH sold Oct. 30, for $265,000. Built SUNDAY BIBLE STUDY 9:30AM www.VBCOCOEE.com in 2005, it has two bedrooms, two SUNDAY SERVICE 11:00AM

baths and 1,264 square feet. Days WEDNESDAY SERVICE 6:00PM on market: One.

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 125 ELandPlant St., Winter Garden The home at 14708 Masthead 407-656-2352 ing Circle, Winter Garden, sold Nov. 3, for $465,000. BuiltSUNDAYS in 2004, 8:30 am Traditional it has three bedrooms, two baths 9:45 am Bible Study and 2,190 square feet. Days on am Contemporary 11:00 market: 13. WEDNESDAYS - 6pm - Awana TIMBERCREEK PINES Pastor Tim Grosshans www.fbcwg.org The home at 33 Timbercreek Pines Circle, Winter Garden, sold 2ndOct. Campus: 30, for $520,000. Built in FOUNDATION 2004, it WORSHIP has three bedrooms, two baths and 9:45 am - All Ages SUNDAYS 1,584 square feet. Days on market: Foundation Academy High School Six. 15304 Tilden Rd., Winter Garden www.FoundationWorship.com VILLAGE GROVE The townhouse at 1221 Winter 407-730-1867

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

UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST

WINDERMERE UNION CHURCH 10710 Park Ridge-Gotha Rd. Windermere, FL 34786 407-876-2112 Worship times: 9:00am Adult Sunday School 10:00am Worship www.windermereunion.org

STONEYBROOK WEST

MIKE YOAKUM PASTOR

P: 407.656.1520 C: 407.758.3570 MYOAKUM407@AOL.COM

Green Way, Winter Garden, sold Oct. 30, for $255,000. Built in 1984, it has two bedrooms, one-and-onehalf baths and 1,240 square feet. Days on market: Two.

1333 EAST CROWN POINT RD. OCOEE, FL 34761

WINDTREE GARDENS

The condo at 170 Windtree Lane, No. 204, Winter Garden, sold Nov. 1, for $210,000. Built in 1985, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 918 square feet. Days on market: 18.

ORDER YOUR CUSTOM MADE CHRISTMAS WINTER OAKS The home at 724 Chase Oaks Court, GIFTS NOW! Winter Garden, sold Nov. 2, for

Check out the custom made silent auction items that will be available at the Garden Party on November 9!!

Matthew’s Hop

• Custom Furnitur The Community Christmas Carnival

Barn Doors, and • Repaired, Refinis Repurposed Wo Community...Get ready to unwrap the • Gently Used Fur magic of the holiday season at our enchanting Christmas Carnival! Household Item

Dec. 16 I 10am-1pm Jingle all the way to our Magical Christmas Carnival!

$612,500. Built in 2004, it has five bedrooms, three baths and 3,092 square feet of living area. Days on market: 65.

Join us for a day filled with laughter, Follow us atjoy,https://www.faceboo and festive wonders that will leave your hearts aglow. Everyone is welcome to join! Struggling families looking to participate and receive help with toys, please call or e-mail us! 407-905-9500 info@matthewshopeministries.org

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SOUTHWEST ORANGE

BAPTIST

LV14252

The home at 2411 Orsota Circle, Ocoee, sold Nov. 1, for $585,000. Built in 2005, it has five bedrooms, three baths and 3,271 square feet. Days on market: 27.

The home at 1063 Home Grove Drive, Winter Garden, sold Oct. 30, for $905,000. Built in 2006, it has five bedrooms, four baths and 3,534 square feet of living area. Days on market: Four.

WANT TO SEE YOUR LISTING HERE?

CALL (407) 656-2121

Courtesy photo

The home at 1201 Union Club Drive, Winter Garden, sold Oct. 31, for $1,180,000. It was the largest transaction in Winter Garden from Oct. 30 to Nov. 5. The sellers were represented by Matt McKee, The McKee Group, Compass Florida LLC.

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OrangeObserver.com

OBSERVER | THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2023

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10A

NOVEMBER 30, 2023

HIGH

SPORTS

After a great start to the 2023-24 season, Windermere High soccer standout Jose Moyetones looks to lead the Wolverines to greater heights under new coach. Page 2B.

Windermere High swimmer Ryan Erisman has committed to swim at the University of California, Berkeley. The junior is coming off an impressive showing at the FHSAA Class 4A state championship meet, where he won both the 200-yard and 500-yard freestyle state championships and was part of the team that won the 200-yard freestyle relay state championship. He also finished in second place in the 400-yard freestyle relay.

As the winter sports season begins to ramp up, various early-season boys basketball tournaments around Central Florida have given us an idea of who the area’s top teams and players could be. In Class 3A, Windermere Prep again looks to be a state-title contender with the addition of transfer guard Samuel Shoptaw and the return of district Player of the Year Brandon Bass Jr. and 7-footer Sinan Huan. In 7A, Windermere and Olympia High look to be the teams to beat. For the Wolverines, the return of top two scorers Ta’Veon Jones — despite reportedly transferring to West Oaks Academy — and Chalier Torres, and the emergence of underclassmen such as junior forward Terrance Drain and sophomore guard Nathan Earl, once again make Windermere a factor. As for Olympia, four of the sevenman rotation that led the Titans to a 26-3 record last season returns for 2023-24.

With the high school football season over and college football season reaching its climax, you may notice on social media a lot of the area’s highest-touted recruits making appearances on the sidelines at some of the top programs in the country.

It’s been an even more impressive start than expected for the area’s top boys soccer teams. West Orange, Windermere, Olympia and Horizon high schools already have begun to separate themselves from the rest of the pack in the area by starting the season undefeated. The four have combined to have an 11-0 record and a goal difference of +42.

After losing to graduation and Louisiana State University its top goalscorer, Brielyn Knowles, and her 21 goals and eight assists from the 2022-23 season, Windermere Prep girls soccer looks to have found a new line-leading striker with just as much college-level potential. Forward Alyssa Parsons, a transfer from Apopka, has continued to show in the early parts of her sophomore season why she’s one of the top players in the country — she received a call-up to a U.S. Under-15 Women’s Youth National Team camp in the spring. Parsons had a sensational freshman campaign that saw her score 35 goals and dish out 11 assists for the Blue Darters. So far in her new home, Parsons has quickly gotten comfortable and is off to an emphatic start to the 2023-24 season. In the Lakers’ most recent match, a 10-0 drubbing of Trinity Catholic (the match ended at halftime because of the mercy rule), Parsons scored seven goals and assisted two more. Keep an eye out for Windermere Prep’s new deadly finisher this season.

File photo

At 7 feet tall, Sinan Huan is Windermere Prep’s big man on campus. He’s also the Lakers’ undeniable weapon on defense, but ook for him to become a force on offense this year, too.

Courtesy of Windermere Preparatory School

Brandon Bass Jr., son of former long-time NBA player Brandon Bass, jumped on the scene as a freshman by leading the Lakers to the state title game.

Super sophomores Brandon Bass Jr. and Sinan Huan led Windermere Prep boys basketball on both ends as freshmen. This year, they have their sights set on a state championship.

SAM ALBUQUERQUE SPORTS EDITOR

n high school sports, one of the most sure-fire ways coaches at a smaller classification school can prepare their teams for a deep run in the playoffs is to schedule tough opponents in their respective class and from larger classifications. Windermere Prep boys basketball coach Brian Hoff takes that philosophy seriously, and despite a rocky start, it paid dividends for his team last season. “We went through a lot of adversity in the regular season last year,” Hoff said of his team. “We especially

TERRIFIC 20:

did not play our best basketball early on.” Of the 32 games the Lakers played in the 2022-23 season, they only faced three teams with records below the .500 mark. The combined record of the eight teams that beat Windermere Prep was 165-64. Of those eight, four were in a higher classification and none had a losing record. “We lost some games, but we eventually found our identity, and that started on the defensive end,” Hoff said. “We became really tough to score on each night. On offense, we had some guys (who) could make shots. … And that allowed us to make a nice run there at the end.”

Given its tough schedule, a 24-8 record and a FHSAA Class 3A state runner-up finish, Hoff may be underselling just how nice of a run his squad was able to make last season. Even more impressive: The Lakers were able to achieve all of this with only two seniors on the roster, and their two best players — Brandon Bass Jr. and Sinan Huan — were freshmen. “Brandon was our go-to guy on offense last year, and Sinan was our go-to guy on the defensive end last year,” Hoff said. “It says a lot about these two, that as freshmen they SEE LAKERS PAGE 3B

Meet the area’s top boys soccer players for 2023-24 Despite losing some top players to graduation, Horizon and Windermere boys soccer teams are again primed for great seasons.

Soccer season is about to kick into high gear. Before that happens, read up on the area’s top boys players for this season. SAM ALBUQUERQUE SPORTS EDITOR

It’s no secret the West Orange and Southwest Orange County area is packed with some of the best high school athletes in the state — regardless of the sport. But historically, one of the area’s top sports is the beautiful game of soccer. The 2023-24 boys soccer season is no different and again should live up Courtesy photo

SEE SOCCER PAGE 2B

OrangeObserver.com

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

OBSERVER | THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2023

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

Jose Moyetones Jose Moyetones is a senior attacker and top returning scorer (10) for a Windermere High boys soccer team that finished last season with a 13-2-2 record and a district championship and reached the regional semifinals in the FHSAA Class 7A state championships. In the early portion of the 2023-24 season, Moyetones and Windermere have continued their impressive run under new coach Lou Romao — former Olympia High coach. In the Wolverines’ three consecutive victories to start the season, Moyetones has scored six goals and assisted five more. That’s already more than his total of three assists last season and more than halfway to his 2022-23 goal total. With Moyetones leading the attacking line, expect the Wolverines to not miss a beat this season.

How does it feel to be named Athlete of the Week? It feels incredible, and it’s more motivation to continue working and making an effort. What do you like most about playing soccer? What I like most about soccer is the passion that playing gives me. Since I was little, watching soccer generated incredible happiness and passion in me. What is your goal for this soccer season, for yourself and for the team? My goal this season is to win as much as possible with my team and individually score as many goals and assists as possible, getting to double digits in each one. What is the biggest lesson you have learned from soccer? The greatest lesson I have learned is that no matter how much they hit me or criticize me or if things don’t go well, keep going and get up again and again. Try harder and harder.

THE BASICS Age: 17 Sport: Soccer Grade: Senior School: Windermere

What is your favorite subject in school? My favorite subject at school currently is astronomy. I really like it, because it talks about space, stars and galaxies, which I think is a very interesting topic. Courtesy photo

What are three things you would take with you to a deserted island? I would take a soccer ball, a cooler with soda and a cornet to play music.

West Orange boys soccer’s top returning goalscorer and playmaker Finlay Prain is ready to lead the Warriors.

Soccer standouts already emerging

What is your favorite movie? My favorite movie is “SpiderMan: No Way Home,” because the three Spider-Men appear together.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1B

to the expectations set by the players who have come before. Whether it be the area’s top teams returning their best players,up-andcomers looking to breakthrough on varsity and fill the production gap left behind by graduating seniors or rebuilding programs finding the foundational pieces needed to build a winning culture, this season of boys soccer is going to have a little bit of everything. Here are 20 of the area’s top high school boys soccer players.

If you could go back in time to a specific period in history, when and where would you go? If I could, I would go to back to my childhood in Venezuela, where I grew up, and enjoy that time much more. Playing soccer in the street and running around with my friends. Looking back, what advice would you give your 10-yearold self? Keep trying and preparing, because none of what’s coming is going to be easy and enjoy every moment to its fullest. If you could ask your future self one question, what would it be? I would love to ask if we achieved our goal.

Who is your favorite supervillain? My favorite villain would be Loki, because although he’s a bit crazy, in the end, he also has a heart and helps fight Thanos.

JOSE MOYETONES, WINDERMERE Attack | Senior | No. 21

RICARDO DAVILA, HORIZON Attack | Senior | No. 12

With the Hawks losing their five top goal-scorers from a 14-4-4 2022-23 team, someone had to step up and put the ball in the back of the net, and that’s been Davila. So far this season, he’s bagged three goals and assisted one more. JULIAN FILONI, HORIZON Goalie | Senior | No. 0

Filoni has been stellar between the posts for Horizon. Through 220 minutes minding the net in the Hawks’ first three games, he’s allowed only one goal and has made nine saves.

If you could be an animal for a day, which one would you be and why? I would be a wolf, because of their ability to hunt and see in the dark and run quite fast.

TYLER STANFORD, WEST ORANGE Defense | Junior | No. 14

ANGELO ARRIVILLAGA DIAZ, WINDERMERE PREP Attack | Junior | No. 7

With three goals and three assists to his name for the Wolverines through three games, Cavalcanti will look to help fill the gaps left behind by the 14 seniors for new coach Lou Romao. So far, Cavalcanti and company have been able to do just that; Windermere is 3-0 in the early season.

What are three places you would like to visit? I would like to visit Spain, specifically Barcelona, to see the soccer team’s stadium, Camp Nou. I’d like to get to know Europe completely too and go to Brazil.

ZACK GRAUER, WEST ORANGE Midfield/Attack | Junior | No. 10

As a freshman, Gareecharun was a menace on the wing for the Lakers — scoring seven goals and assisting three more. His performances landed him on the FACA All-State teams and helped Windermere Prep reach the Class 3A regional quarterfinals.

Editor’s note: Statistics were compiled from online data and coaches’ submissions. Athletes are listed in alphabetical order by last name.

ARTHUR CAVALCANTI, WINDERMERE Attack | Senior | No. 11

If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why? Super speed. I’d love to have the ability to run so fast I could travel back in time and stop time like the Flash does.

DYLAN SHUFFIELD, WEST ORANGE Defense | Senior | No. 3

Through three games, the junior midfielder has scored two goals for what may be one of the best teams in the area. As part of a potent Warriors’ attack, Grauer will look to control the middle of the field and be one of their main creative options going forward.

Last season, the Lakers finished 12-5-1, and Diaz was their joint-top goal-scorer with seven of his shots finding the back of the net. His performance not only helped Windermere Prep reach the regional playoffs for the third time in four years, but he also was named a FACA All-State team selection.

Who is your favorite superhero? My favorite superhero is SpiderMan, because even though people who were important to him died, he kept going helping and saving the people of the city.

JIRAPONG GAREECHARUN, WINDERMERE PREP Midfield/Attack | Sophomore | No. 5

Family. Friends. Community.

ETHAN FREITAS, FOUNDATION ACADEMY Midfield | Junior | No. 11

In three games this season, Freitas Does pineapple has been crucial in the middle of belong on pizza? the pitch for the Lions, assisting Honestly, it doesn’t two goals. He’s continuing his good belong. I’m much Shannon Till, Agent We’re all in this together. form from last season, where he of a fan of bacon Fowler’s Grove 3279 Danielsmore Rd Winter Garden, FL 34787 on pizza. State Farm has a long traditionscored three goals and had three Toll Free: 855-742-1591 of being there. That’s one reason assists for a 10-6-1 Foundation www.shannontill.com why I’m proud to support Westteam that reached the regional — SAM ALBUQUERQUE Orange county.. quarterfinals of the FHSAA Class Get to a better State . 2A state championships. ®

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After being the joint-top goalscorer for the Wolverines last season, Moyetones has picked up right where he left off. In just three games, he’s scored six goals and had five assists. That’s already two more assists than last season and more than halfway to his goal total of 10. Alongside Cavalcanti in attack, Windermere is again a scary sight for any of its opposition. NICOLAS MUJICA, WINDERMERE Defense | Senior | No. 3

The senior captain is not only a leader on the backline, but also can be a factor from the fullback spot in attack. He scored three goals and had four assists in the 2022-23 season. This year, he already has scored once for the Wolverines. JACOB MUNOZ, OCOEE Midfield | Junior | No. 6

Munoz is both the top returning goalscorer — with nine goals — and the returning top playmaker — with three assists — for Ocoee coach Peter Moore and his Knights team. FINLAY PRAIN, WEST ORANGE Midfield | Senior | No. 11

With 10 goals and 11 assists in the 2022-23 season, Prain not only is the top returner in both categories for a Warriors team that went 14-21, but is also a complete midfielder who will drive West Orange this season. So far in 2023-24, he scored five goals in the team’s three games — all victories. WILL PRUNTY, FOUNDATION ACADEMY Midfield | Junior | No. 10

A key part of the Lions’ returning core, Prunty already has tripled his goal-scoring output from the 202223 season. Through two games, he has scored three goals. Last season, he bagged one goal and assisted three more.

Shuffield is a ball-playing center back who is dynamite in the air and has a solid understanding of when to lunge into a tackle. The senior captain has been vital to a Warriors team that has only given up three goals this year and 10 total goals last season.

With Shuffield on the Warriors’ back line, Stanford adds even more physicality and speed to this talented defense. The junior’s athletic ability and improvement with the ball at his feet show he has the potential to play at the next level. NICKOLAY URBINA, WINDERMERE PREP Goalie | Junior | No. 1

With eight clean sheets and his team only allowing 16 goals all of last season, Urbina was a FACA All-State team selection and one of the best keepers in the area last season. GUILHERME VALENTE, OLYMPIA Attack | Junior | No. 9

After a difficult 2022-23 season for the Titans and a new coach in Raymond Bornacelli, Valente has stepped up early on this season. The junior has already scored two goals in Olympia’s first two games and could be just the piece the first-year coach needs to rebuild this program. KARSON VAZQUEZ, HORIZON Midfield | Senior | No. 10

Through three games this season, Vazquez has scored two goals and been an electric playmaker for the Hawks with five assists. The central midfielder controls the middle of the pitch for the Hawks, is the returning team MVP, and also has added team captain to his list of duties this season. Look out for him at the next level, as well: He already holds an offer from Stetson. WYATT WAPOLE, FOUNDATION ACADEMY Attack | Senior | No. 15

Wapole is a true center forward who led Foundation in goals with 13 and in assists with four last season. The Lions’ line-leading striker has started the 23-24 campaign with one goal in two games. ERIK WASENDORF, DR. PHILLIPS Attack | Senior | No. 16

Wasendorf was a goal-scoring machine for Dr. Phillips last season, bagging a team-leading 17 goals for the Panthers while adding two assists.

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OBSERVER | THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2023

E W NE LEAS SP K OO

Lakers set sights on state title were our go-to guys on either side of the floor.” BRANDON “THE BUCKET” BASS JR.

Bass is a 6-foot-5 wing with NBA bloodlines — the son of former Orlando Magic player Brandon Bass — who is by every measure a certified bucket. “Brandon has all the potential in the world,” Hoff said. “He works his tail off. He’s a natural-born scorer who is very difficult to defend. When you have a guy who can shoot the ball from well beyond the three-point line and also drive it to the hoop, it’s tough to stop. He’s athletic, and he’s a skilled finisher, as well. It’s just difficult to guard a guy like him.” In his first full season as a varsity basketball player, Bass led the Lakers in scoring with 17.4 points per game and scooped up 3.8 rebounds. His success led him to be selected as the Class 3A, District 11 player of the year. The scary thing is, he still has a lot of room to improve as a player and leader. “I just want to take what I learned from the people on last season’s team and before last year and … be like them for this team,” Bass said. “I feel like personally, for me to be a leader, I need to get my teammates going by keeping a good energy.” Over the summer, Bass also has improved on the court. “I got better at playmaking, and I think I got better at rebounding, too,” he said. “I really focused on those two areas of my game this summer, and I’m going to do that better this season.” Bass already has offers from the likes of LSU, Stanford, UCF, Houston and others. However, he still is only a sophomore, and Hoff believes Bass has even more room for improvement. “He’s making steps as a player in a number of areas, but I think he’s going to become one of the best defenders around this year,” Hoff said. “I’ve seen the growth from Year One to Year Two in a number of areas, and that’s only going to continue, because of how hard he works.” SINAN “THE SHOT-STOPPER” HUAN

On the opposite end of the spectrum from Bass is fellow sophomore Sinan Huan — a 7-foot rim protector from China — who led the Lakers with 4.7 blocks a game, to go along with his 6.4 points and 5.8 rebounds per game. “Sinan is unique in that obviously

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he’s 7 feet tall with long arms and jumps out of the gym,” Hoff said. “He affects the game on defense tremendously. I’ve never coached anyone (who) has the ability to block and alter as many shots as he does.” Obviously, Huan’s size and athleticism are key to his shotblocking ability, but so is his ability to mentally process what his opponents are going to do. “It’s kind of weird to think about, because when I’m at the rim, I need to analyze what the opponent is going to do, so I can try to protect the rim,” Huan said. “But I think I’ve been good at doing it.” Beyond his dominance on one end of the ball as a freshman, Hoff thinks Huan will become dominant on the other end of the floor, as well. “He’s improved his offensive game a lot, as well,” Hoff said. “To the point where when we give it to him around the block area, we feel pretty confident we’re going to get two points or a foul. … Eventually though, he’s going to be able to knock down outside shots consistently. He’s worked on that area of his game a lot and can knock down some outside shots here and there already.”

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Although Bass and Huan are the focal points for the Lakers this upcoming season, Hoff knows if the Lakers are going to win the state title, they need to be a complete team. “We want to be hard to guard to where if people decide to double team either Brandon on the perimeter or Sinan on the inside, we have the guys (who) can beat you,” Hoff said. Those pieces include guards Samuel Shoptaw and Gustavo Roca and wing Malachi Martis. “On any given night, those three guys are threats to lead us in scoring,” Hoff said. “Sam’s going to be not only our starting point guard, he’s going to be a tremendous leader for us,” Hoff said. “He’s a great passer and can knock down open shots and get to the rim. … Malachi is a 6-5 big, strong wing who’s a great scorer. Really efficient around the rim. … And Gustavo Rocha’s a freshman — who’s been at our school since elementary — (who) is one of the most ready-to-play freshmen, that I’ve ever coached. He’s solid as heck.” With its two returning sophomore stars in Bass and Huan, along with new pieces that will add athleticism, playmaking and shooting, expect Windermere Prep to be as good and exciting as last season, as the Lakers begin their road to hoisting the state championship trophy.

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OBSERVER | THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2023

OBSERVER SCHOOL ZONE

Right: Aria, Siri and Ahmad Sadiq attended the event as a family. Below: Elena, Miguel and Mariana da Silva worked on crafts as a team.

Elementary students sported Team Kindness T-shirts as they greeted attendees at the doors to the school.

Whispering Oak celebrates World Kindness Day

Lauren, Carolynn and Elara Hoffman earned stickers from participating in a yoga and meditation session in the library.

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Aadi Jadonath, Tanner Gaus and Lucas Vasquez showed off their Team Kindness T-shirts.

hispering Oak Elementary School hosted its Family Kindness Night Monday, Nov. 13. The event, organized by the school’s Parent Teacher Organization, brought Wildcats together to celebrate World Kindness Day. The night was part of a fundraiser the school organized to give back to the community called Raise Craze. Students, families and friends completed a multitude of kindness activities together, such as making holiday ornaments for The Greyson Project, donating used eyeglasses to the Lions Club, helping with the National Elementary Honor Society’s food drive, participating in yoga and meditation, and writing thank-you notes to those who help in the community.

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BRIEFS

JROTC UNITS TO PARTICIPATE IN MARCH The Air Force JROTC units from West Orange, Ocoee and Dr. Phillips high schools will participate in the Bataan Memorial Death March Dec. 16. The march will begin at 8 a.m. at the West Orange Trail Killarney Station, 17914 State Road 438, Winter Garden. Cadets will march/walk 7.2 miles along the West Orange Trail through the city of Winter Garden. They will stop at 11 a.m. at the Chapin Station, where lunch will be provided by the Winter Garden Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW Post 4305) then march the 7.2 miles back to Killarney. The Battle of Bataan was fought between United States and Philippine forces against the Imperial Japanese Army from Jan. 7 through April 9, 1942. Their mission was to block or delay the Japanese advance in the Pacific Theater. By the end of February, rice and flour had run out, and the Army was on a starvation diet. Besieged by the Japanese, the fighters also suffered from malnutrition, disease and fatigue. However, they continued to fight against the superior force until it was no longer realistic with the condition of the troops. On April 9, 1942, American troops surrendered to the Japanese army in the largest surrender of American troops ever on a foreign land. Hoping for humane treatment, the Americans and Filipino were sorely disappointed as the Japanese guards tortured and killed between 7,000 to 10,000 American and Filipino men, who could not keep up the pace during the 65-mile march without adequate food or water. “As we teach cadets about WWII, its important not only to memorize dates but (also) to try and gather some feeling of what it must have been like for those soldiers,” DPHS JROTC instructor Don Cantrell said. “Not hearing is not as good as hearing. Hearing is not as good as seeing. Seeing is not as good as knowing. Knowing is not as good as acting. Learning continues through action.”

INFLUENCER OF THE WEEK

SCHOOL

OBSERVER | THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2023

RANDALL HOWELL,

If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why? The power to go back in time. I do not want to change anything. I would just like a little more time with the people I loved and no longer have with me.

WEST ORANGE HIGH Randall Howell is a dean at West Orange High School. Howell has many duties on a daily basis. However, all of those duties serve one purpose to help: “students to become better young men and women,” he said. Howell has been with Orange County Public Schools for 25 years. He was at Colonial High School for 15 years before moving to the west side of town. He applied at West Orange and Ocoee high schools when he moved, but West Orange did not have a math position open, so he served at Ocoee for four years before coming to West Orange. WOHS Principal Matthew Turner said Howell does so much around campus to support the students and he always goes above and beyond.

What brought you to your school? After my principal left Ocoee, he asked if I wanted to come to West Orange. I enjoyed working for him, so it was a no-brainer for me. What do you love most about your school? The students I work with on a daily basis. Being a dean, coach and assistant athletic director, you get the opportunity to work with pretty much the whole student body which, to me, is awesome. The relationship-building with all of them and the faculty makes it enjoyable every day. What is the most rewarding part of your job? Getting to see the growth of a student. From the time they come into high school — and not really knowing much — to the finished young adult they have matured into as they walk the stage at graduation.

REPORT CARD

What would you be if you weren’t in this profession? A marine biologist studying sharks. I have always been fascinated with sharks growing up but, thanks to a special teacher I had (in) my senior year of high school, I chose this path instead. Who influences you? My grandfather was a big influence on me growing up. He helped to instill the work habits that I have today. I try to pass that on to many of my students, because some of them get a little lost as they develop. Many times, it takes someone else besides a parent to help guide them, and we all know that teenagers know more than their parents, right? Who was your favorite teacher when you were in school? Why? Mr. Pringle. Not only was he an amazing teacher, but he also taught (my and my friends’ fathers). The first day of his math class will live with me forever. He called my name; I said, “Here.” And he looked at me (for) a moment and said, “Randy is your dad correct?” I said, “Yes, sir.” He smiled and said, “You better not be like your father was in my class.” It was a great senior year back in 1991-92. What do you like to do in your spare time? It just depends on the day. I like to fish, go bowling, golf, hunt and some days just relax. If you could dine with any famous person, past or present, who would it be and why? Robin Williams. I just feel like it would be a fun time to talk and hang out with him.

POSITION: Dean TIME AT SCHOOL: Five years

If you could only listen to three bands or artists, who would they be and why? Garth Brooks, Shania Twain, Luke Bryan and Jason Aldean. I grew up in the country and just like the music. Metallica, because it was what I listened to on game days as a player in high school and as a coach. What was your go-to lunch and favorite snack as an elementary student? The macaroni and cheese at Lake Trafford Elementary. For some reason, that was awesome, and they always had the little pigs in a blanket with them. What is your favorite holiday and why? Halloween. I have always enjoyed dressing up in a costume and seeing all the kids and their choices of costumes. My wife and I decorate our house with all kinds of Halloween decorations, and now we have people come from all around to see what we do from year to year. I can’t lie, either: It is fun to scare the teenagers a little, as well. Who was your best friend when you were in school and why? Are you still in touch? Growing up in a small farming town in Southwest Florida, you really did not have a best friend. Our families all knew (one another), so we were all friends. What were your extracurricular activities as a student? Did you win any accolades or honors? I played baseball from the time I was 6 years old all through high school. I played tuba in the band all through middle and high school. I was a member of the Beta and Interact clubs while in high school and was the Scholar Athlete of the Year my senior year. — ANNABELLE SIKES

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OBITUARIES

OBSERVER | THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2023

Silas Atilano-Batista, 83, died Saturday, Nov. 11, 2023. Collison Carey Hand Funeral Home, Winter Garden.

Wednesday, Nov. 15, 2023, Winter Oak Funeral Home & Cremations, Winter Garden. Dean R. Fassett, 77, of Winter Garden, died Monday, Oct. 30, 2023. Collison Carey Hand Funeral Home, Winter Garden.

Servulo Buenaventura Battung, 93, of Winter Garden, died Wednesday, Nov. 15, 2023. Baldwin-Fairchild Winter Garden Funeral Home.

Jackie Lee Grant, 90, of Winter Garden, died Monday, Nov. 6, 2023. DeGusipe Funeral Home and Crematory, Ocoee.

Debra Jean Cauley, 67, of Ocoee, died Wednesday, Nov. 1, 2023. Collison Carey Hand Funeral Home, Winter Garden. Kenneth Cohen, 76, of Windermere, died Saturday, Nov. 25, 2023. Woodlawn Funeral Home & Memorial Park. Rebecca (Becky) Wilkerson Condon, 50, of Ocoee, died

Lora Bell Hays, 95, of Ocoee, died Saturday, Nov. 25, 2023. Baldwin-Fairchild Winter Garden Funeral Home. Ricardo E. Manuel, 87, of Winter Garden, died Friday, Nov. 24, 2023. Baldwin-Fairchild Winter Garden Funeral Home.

Dylan Joseph Glenn Meyer, 31, died Sunday, Nov. 19, 2023. DeGusipe Funeral Home and Crematory, Ocoee. Richard William Nichols Jr., 72, of Windermere, died Tuesday, Oct. 31, 2023. Woodlawn Funeral Home & Memorial Park, Gotha. Julie Anne Primus, 71, of Ocoee, died Tuesday Nov. 14, 2023. Collison Carey Hand Funeral Home, Winter Garden. Charlie Steele, 85, of Windemere, died Tuesday, Nov. 14, 2023. Woodlawn Funeral Home & Memorial Park. Cristino Then, 55, died Tuesday, Nov. 21, 2023. DeGusipe Funeral Home and Crematory.

Dr. David A. Clark 2/9/67 - 11/30/19

David, it has been four years already since God called you to your heavenly home and gave you a cancer free body. Our hearts are still broken. We love you so very much and miss you everyday. With All Our Love, Mom, Dad, Robert, Caroline, Jessica & Family

CONNIE RHEA DIED NOV. 13, 2023.

Connie Rhea, 76, of Orlando, Florida, passed away Nov. 13, 2023. Born Connie Lynn Hill Aug. 30, 1947, in Benton Harbor, Michigan, to Richard and Mary Louise Hill, who predeceased her. Connie and husband David lived in Ocoee at 906 Center St. for 40 years and moved to Orlando in May of this year. Family and faith were the cornerstones of Connie’s life. She was a devoted and loving wife, mother, grandmother and greatgrandmother. Connie had an inner strength rooted in her unwavering love for Jesus that guided and sustained her throughout her life. Connie lived her life by actively serving others, be they family, friends, strangers or MYW (Mennonite Your Way) guests. Connie graduated from Andrews University with a BS in Education and Home Economics. And, many years later, Life (Liberty) University as a certified Life Coach. She was teaching school in Michigan when she met her husband of 49 years, David Rhea. She and David began their ministry of “hospitality” in their third month of marriage, when they began to take in “wards of the state” such as runaway teenagers, foster children and “crack babies” at their first home in Michigan. This ministry continued throughout their married life. To Connie and David was born Trisha in 1977 in whose home “she went to sleep in Jesus.” Connie was a talented cook and a vegetarian.

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She also played roles of pianist or organist at many churches in Michigan, Kentucky and Florida. A few other jobs she had were Assistant Fire Chief and Training officer, E.M.T., office manager, roofer, painter, upholsterer, music composer, museum hostess, store clerk and many more. She is survived by husband, David; daughter, Trisha, and her husband, Carlos Tavarez; Trisha’s children, Xander and Zoey; adopted daughter Kira (Logsdon) Mitchell, of Orlando, and her children, Ariell, her husband, John Ralph, and Faithe, Hunter and Kobe. Also, Connie’s sister Karen and husband, Charles; and Karen’s daughters, Sonya, in Michigan, and Sandy and husband, Dan Klug, in Washington. Also surviving are Connie’s adopted sisters, Doris Likens of Ocoee and Traci Lemon, of Maryland. In Indiana are stepdaughter, Dee-Dee Herald, and her daughter Meghan, and husband Bob Walz; their children, Jael, Nathan and Joshua, of Indiana; and Dee-Dee’s daughter, Danni, and husband, Damon, of Chicago. A Celebration of Life potluck was held between 1 and 4 p.m. Nov. 25 at Wadeview Park in Orlando.

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OBSERVER | THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2023

FROM THE WINTER GARDEN HERITAGE FOUNDATION FROM THE ARCHIVES

Winter Garden burst into preholiday gaiety this week as strings of colored lights were placed on the streets by the Florida public service company and stores began featuring Christmas merchandise more heavily than before. The moving of the Windermere Clubhouse was started, some 10 feet of progress having been made the first day. When placed in its new location in the center of Windermere, the clubhouse was to be remodeled by the Works Progress Administration.

60 years ago

The Winter Garden Lions Club, with Mervin Lee as president, announced plans were underway for the club’s annual needy Christmas basket distribution.

50 years ago

45 years ago

One of the happiest groundbreakings ever held in West Orange County took place as the West Orange YMCA marked the first phase of construction on its new facilities.

40 years ago

The Winter Garden Police Department raised more than $400 for its Toys for Tots Christmas program at a car wash at McDonald’s. The department’s total goal for the

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.

year was $2,000. The Police Explorers unit helped wash vehicles. Jim Beech and Mary Anne Swickerath, both of Ocoee, received special Apple From The Teacher awards given by the Orange County Classroom Teachers Association in connection with American Education Week. Twenty-two special contributors to public school education were chosen through countywide nominations by teachers. Beech, a physical education teacher at Forrest Park School, was honored for his work

with the Cerebral Palsy Games and for his dedication to the progress of physically impaired students. Swickerath was recognized for her school news and sports coverage for The Times, as well as her school volunteer work.

30 years ago

The new name choices for the West Orange Trail, the 17-mile path for walkers, joggers and cyclists planned from the Lake-Orange County line to Apopka, were Orange Belt Trail, Orange Belt Rail

Trail, Florida Sunshine Trail and Sunbelt Historical Trail.

20 years ago

Olympia High School welcomed Robert Avossa as its new principal. He replaced Dr. Jan Pratt, who left to become associate superintendent of Workforce Instruction and Curriculum Services at the Educational Leadership Center downtown.

crossword

celebrity cipher

APPLIED MATH by Jeffrey Martinovic & William Yuan, edited by Jeff Chen 128 Nevada gambling hub 129 Unleashes (on) 130 Memo 131 Actor Aziz 132 Math class finale

DOWN 1 Hardly special 2 Canadian neighbor, colloquially 3 Art form that welcomes curse words? 4 White or Red baseball team 5 Foreshadowed 6 Starting points 7 White House URL ender 8 French friend

58 Author of “The Raven” 62 Fable housing material 64 Tech support whiz, for short 65 Word that precedes “flush” or “wedding” 66 Vietnamese soup 67 Separated 69 Friend in battle 70 “Have a bite!” 71 Sphere 72 Cousins of moose 73 ___ cava (heart vessel) 74 Focused on oneself 78 Sophocles tragedy 79 Villain’s lackey

80 Director Lee 82 “Shh!” 9 The ___ Planet (nickname 84 Wit bit for Mars) 87 Call at a soccer game 10 Small digit? 88 Premier League power11 Big camera brand house, to fans 12 Head of major ops? 89 Chain making many 13 Apple type

14 Political coalition 15 Find not guilty 16 Holy locale 17 Pass with flying colors 18 Animal shelters 25 Leave in shock

ACROSS 1 Busy locales

once removed

63 Dark genre

99 Lauder with a cosmetic

31 *For adding negative numbers ... 38 Eats less

66 Ballet move 67 In between 68 *For linear equations ...

line 102 “The True ___ strong and free ...” (line from “O

72 Surname of a brotherly pop duo

Canada”) 103 Hiker’s need

5 Humphrey of “Casablanca” 11 Tool creating many parts? 39 Like a toon whose head is steaming 15 Obsessive captain 19 Capital of Norway 20 Words from Juliet 21 ___ Sea (shrinking body of water) 22 ___-Cola 23 Big fake 24 *The punny math teacher had six lessons for her students. To tackle fractions ... 27 Org. with octagons 28 Plead 29 Court 30 Relative who might be

40 Mythology with Thor 75 Greek lamb dish 104 Slow, musically 41 Pull one over on 76 Banks who hosted “Danc- 106 *Regarding geometry 43 Fitting name for an Uber ing With the Stars” problems ... driver? 44 “Obvs”

77 Flex time? 81 On the up-and-up

113 Fuel number 115 Self-synopsis

46 Bad sign at a beach 47 Untruth 50 Pirate’s supporter?

82 Waterfront structure 83 Texter’s “Just a sec” 85 Long time

116 Toss in some change, perhaps 117 Soak (up)

52 *In trig problems ... 56 “The Book of ___” (Den-

86 *With calculus problems 118 *Her punchline, if a ... student fails to apply her

zel Washington movie) 57 Baby dog 59 Midmonth time

92 Big cheese 94 Certain egg holder 95 Canadian actor Simu

60 Some food truck staff 61 MLB postseason round

96 Some Chevrolet SUVs 98 German refusal

advice 124 Tax-sheltered accts. 125 Nobelist Wiesel

By Luis Campos Celebrity Cipher cryptograms are created from quotations by famous people, past and present. Each letter in the cipher stands for another. “AGAZEMHA FC CM YAFZU FH K.T. DVTD FR EMJ’ZA CMNAYVTD HMZNTK, FD’C AWMDFI.”

“MFI CKXHMHI OI LHFLMHJ UA RCOYHVI CKJ TCVLHKYHVI CKJ JVOZHVI RGF CVH YGHVH YF UH CTYFVI.” LCYVOTN JSBBA

“IPAACSPPL RB SPGLMDKXA. EGCPGM SIP LPMBG’V ARNM RV RB MRVIMD TDEUC PD BPYMD.” DECOPGL TIEGLAMD

pancakes 90 Civil wrong, in court 91 Canadian actor Rogen 93 Ring, as a bell 97 Female in a den 100 Looks intently (at) 101 Broadway award

26 Vertex 104 Doesn’t prevail 28 What might make some- 105 Certain gut bacteria one hard to trust 107 WWII sub 32 Noble rank 108 Dishwashing or sham33 Jester of yesteryear pooing step 34 Cold, in Mexico 109 Christmas beverage 35 Canadian gas brand 110 Giuseppe who com36 Stink to high heaven posed “Falstaff”

UTGFU CXTUA

Puzzle Three Clue: K equals F

The West Orange Junior Service League presented 11 girls at its annual Debutante Ball at the Bay Hill Club: Leslie Ann Arnold, Alison Burch, Julia Emrick, Robert Ison, Leigh Ann Jowett, Joan McLatchey, Lorraine Pearson, Teresia Roberson, Amy Tompkins, Donna Williams and Kim Wingfield. Donald G. Ficke, a man with 17 years of law-enforcement experience, accepted the post of Winter Garden police chief.

NOV. 25, 1993 After Thanksgiving, businesses typically begin advertising their December holiday specials, and Pittman Jewelers was no exception in 1993. To celebrate its 48th anniversary as a jewelry store, the family-owned and -operated business offered sale prices on a variety of women’s jewelry, including gold chains and gold bracelets, diamond solitaire rings and earrings, an assortment of watches (Seiko, Bulova, Caravelle and Wittnauer), bridal sets, and pendants. A holiday clearance also was being held on men’s diamond rings. Pittman’s was located in the Highland Lakes Center at the corner of Hiawassee Road and West Colonial Drive.

The Great Depression did not actually have a devastating impact on our region. People have to eat, and we were well on our way to becoming the world’s largest shipper of citrus and vegetables for a time. This photograph, taken in the 1930s, attests to the fact that two hardware stores co-existed on the same block. Many changes have come to this block. Ruben Anderson and manager Elisha Gunter Akin are seen standing in front of the A&P store once located on West Plant Street. (Its site now is occupied by the yellow brick office structure). Bray Hardware is next, followed by Harrell’s Café; the little eatery stood in a building since replaced by the structure that houses Urban on Plant and the walkway adjacent to it. Joiner’s Radio Service follows, and to its west is Winter Garden Hardware. The Garden Theatre is seen at the far right.

85 years ago

sudoku

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

37 Canucks star Pettersson 111 Polynesian Disney 42 Traveler’s stopover princess 43 Sudoku grid unit 112 ___ salts 45 Submit returns online 114 McGregor who played 46 In a liberal way Obi-Wan Kenobi 48 Types

49 Outperform 50 Green pod content 51 Full of dirt 53 Keats, for one

119 Symbol for density 120 Org. with Cavs and Mavs

121 Flowerpot alternative 122 Some family heads 54 Wile E. Coyote’s supplier 123 ___-free plastics 126 Triumphant expressions 55 Making a racket 124 Anger 127 Undergarment insert

THROWBACK THURSDAY

Puzzle Two Clue: Z equals V

THESE OLD TIMES

Puzzle One Clue: W equals X

W EST O RANG E HISTO RY

OrangeObserver.com

11-30-23

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2023

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OBSERVER | THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2023

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OBSERVER | THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2023

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