02.15.24 West Orange Times & Observer

Windermere gathers more Town Hall input

ANNABELLE SIKES

NEWS EDITOR

After much discussion at the December Windermere Town Council meeting, town leaders voted unanimously to collect more public input before moving forward with any changes to Town Hall.

The information collection is to include the town hosting two public workshops — one in person and one on Zoom — followed by a Town Council workshop and a planned presentation to the Historic Preservation Board on the rehabilitation to Town Hall.

The town hosted the first public information workshop virtually Monday, Jan. 22, and the second in person Wednesday, Feb. 7, at Town Hall.

Residents continue to voice concerns, thoughts and opinions relating to topics such as the building’s historical designation, safety, the gazebo and the grant.

PUBLIC INPUT CONTINUES

One of the biggest worries of residents when it comes to the Town

Hall renovation project is the building maintaining its historic designation.

Town Manager Robert Smith, Public Works Director Tonya

Elliott-Moore, Town Planner Brad Cornelius and Town Consultant

John Fitzgibbon had a call with Alayna Gould, historic preservationist with the Florida Department of State, Jan. 24.

Because the project is not utilizing federal and state funding, Cornelius said the State Historic Preservation Office only can serve in an advisory capacity and provide technical assistance and support.

Regarding the proposed plans, Gould voiced concerns with the bathrooms, the size of the gazebo, the roof being consistent with the character of the town and the Hardie board material.

“She didn’t feel that the bathrooms would be compliant with

the historic requirements as they were proposed being bumped out, but she gave us some alternatives,” Cornelius said. “We could remove the bump out and put them in the multipurpose room, which would be fully compliant, or we could remove the bump out but expand the existing bathrooms into the storage area adjacent to them. … She also told us she spoke with some others in the office … and their only concern they had (with the gazebo) was the massing.

“Her suggestions to take care of that concern were to lower the roof — flatten the roof — to bring it more into scale with the Town Hall as well as reducing the size of the porch,” Cornelius said. “She did say the preferred way to do the roof is keeping with the shingle roof as it is, but she did say we are in Florida … and there is a benefit of going to metal roofs for protection of the buildings and those types of things. So, it can be used. … She felt that the only appropriate use of Hardie board would be on the non-historic portions of Town Hall and that the core of the building should be the original materials and not the Hardie board.”

Resident Theresa SchretzmannMyers suggested using Victorian architectural shingles for the roofing to maintain the building’s character and said she is opposed to the gazebo in the plans.

Resident Stephen Withers is concerned about safety relating to fire

in the building and would like the front steps renovated to meet code requirements.

Resident and former Town Council Member Robert McKinley said Town Hall needs upgrades but wants the grant money to be returned. Several other residents agreed.

Resident Stephen Lewis said he and his family love town events but he worries about the safety of the building.

“I can tell you that when my kids come up here to play on the basketball courts and they run up on the dilapidated deck and up on the stairways, I get a little bit nervous,” he said. “So, when I look at a million dollar grant that, for all intents and purposes, we have ready to use and ready to be put to work, and we can fix the issues that we see deteriorating around us, we can put up a nice gazebo so that we can facilitate some of these events a little better, and we can have a place that still maintains the structural historical integrity, based on everything we’ve heard this evening, I’m fully in support of continuing down this path with this plan.”

The town next was set to host a Town Council workshop to further discuss the project Monday, Feb. 12, after press time.

BEST IN THE WEST

The

Chamber

ANNABELLE

THE WINNERS

n Jo Barsh, State Farm Insurance Agent: Ambassador Award

n Frank Adams, FASTSIGNS: Chairman’s Award

n Bill Cowles, former Orange County Supervisor of Elections: Sam Hovsepian Award “Spirit of West Orange”

n Krista Carter, lifetime member of the WOCC: Mary VanDeventer Award “Spirit of West Orange”

n Orlando Magic: George Bailey Award

n Dennis Jones, Winter Garden Wheel Works: Bert Roper Award n Skip Brown: Bright Future Electric Danniel J. Petro “The Bright Future of West Orange Award”

SMALL BUSINESS MEMBER OF THE YEAR

n Luminary Tax Advisors

BIG BUSINESS MEMBER OF THE YEAR

n Sysco Central Florida

Austin and Kellie Arthur

Kelsey and Nick Cepeda

Michelle Meachem

Martha Delgado and Karen Somarriba

Jason Henry and Danny Hoey dressed in style for the night of awards.

Unidentified bones leave case open in Winter Garden

“This is the only case that I can think of where we have buried bones that have come back.

Obviously, a crime has been committed somewhere based on this not being a regular grave and this person being bound.”

— Scott Allen, Winter Garden Police Department

ANNABELLE SIKES NEWS EDITOR

Dec. 8, 2004, started off just like any normal work day for Yovaish Engineering Sciences employees Andon Calhoun and Dennis Hartenstien. The crew was working in a vacant field off Daniels Road, just west of the entrance to the Regency Oaks subdivision, in Winter Garden. A trench with a blue water line in it, just west of the water tower, first attracted Calhoun’s eye. His vision then drifted south to a palmetto tree. That’s when he saw it: a set of bones resting under the tree.

REMAINS FOUND

It’s been almost 20 years since the remains were found, and the Winter Garden Police Department still has not been able to identify the mysterious bones.

According to the original police report, Calhoun contacted the WGPD immediately when he saw the bones. He said he did not disturb the area around the bones or the bones themselves.

Hartenstein was helping Calhoun locate the proposed location for a dig test. He said he and Calhoun were walking when Calhoun noticed the bones under the tree. Hartenstein also said he did not touch the bones.

The scene was turned over to then-Detective Scott Allen upon the WGPD’s arrival.

Capt. Allen, who now serves as a public information officer for the WGPD, assisted with digging up the bones.

A belt, undershorts and pants were found on the body.

Allen said the person was bound with the cords for window blinds and small extension cords around the ankles and wrists, and the person did not match any missing cases or other open cases the department had.

The Florida Department of Law Enforcement also joined the WGPD on the scene. The scene and investigation were turned over to FDLE investigator Kristie Shaw, before FDLE agent Kevin Bass was assigned lead investigator.

Allen said shotgun pellets were found by FDLE, but it could not be determined if the pellets were related to the case because of the vast area dug up. Allen said there have been a few

situations over the years where development has been occurring and remains have been uncovered.

“It’s not uncommon, with all the construction that goes on around the area, for dirt to be moved from one location to another location and something is found,” he said. “This is the only case that I can think of where we have buried bones that have come back. Obviously, a crime has been committed somewhere based on this not being a regular grave and this person being bound.

… This was when Winter Garden was all under construction. At the time, there was a big water tower for the groves in the vicinity. I believe that the water tower was removed and restored and now is at this subdivision off of Plant Street. I don’t know if anyone has knowledge of someone that was buried near a big, wood water tower near the orange groves.”

The case remains open pending identification of the bones.

VICTIM ANALYSIS

After the bones were recovered, the remains were sent to the medical examiner’s office.

Jan Garavaglia was the chief medical examiner with Florida’s District Nine Medical Examiner’s Office at the time. The office worked closely with the University of Central Florida and determined the jaw of the person was of a black or Hispanic male.

The unidentified person was estimated to have died in 2004.

The victim was estimated to be between the ages of 36 and 45 and to be about 5 feet, 6 inches tall.

The victim had a fracture of the left radius and ulna as well as a well-healed fracture above the left eye orbit and may have had some possible back problem. During his lifetime, his nose likely appeared crooked.

The lower jaw of the unidentified subject contained a silver tooth, which may be one of the biggest indicators when identifying the victim.

The jaw was sent to an odontologist — a person who studies the structure and diseases of teeth to identify people and help solve crimes — but came back with nothing.

The skull of the subject also was sent to Erin Kimmerle, an anthropologist at the University of South Florida.

Kimmerle believes the victim was more likely Hispanic than black

and said his main diet appeared to be corn.

DNA eventually was recovered from the victim’s ribs and was entered in the FBI’s Combined DNA Index System. A National Missing and Unidentified Persons System case was created April 7, 2008.

SEEKING CLOSURE

“It was an exhaustive search by both these guys here (the WGPD) and FDLE of any and all missing people that look like this,” Sgt. David Clarke said. “Plus, of course, you have family members that call in thinking it’s their loved one. All that came up with nothing.”

Clarke even personally traveled looking for possible identifications.

“I thought I had a real close identification of him,” he said. “It was a subject up in the Carolinas. He had a broken left wrist, he was of Indian/ Hispanic descent, all that. It turned out it wasn’t him. We’ve made quite the effort to identify this guy.”

Clarke also said he reached out to recently retired Ocoee Police Department detective Michelle Grogan because one of the department’s cold case subjects, Ernest Manzanares, also had a broken left arm. However, the DNA extraction has not been completed yet.

“We run into a lot of situations where individuals may not feel comfortable coming to the police with information,” Allen said. “There could be people out there who know who this person is but aren’t comfortable saying anything. We’ve been really trying to rely on science to get this person identified. … Not all crime is reported. As of today, we have nothing in our files. No missing people or cases that would involve this.”

Allen said every detail when it comes to the subject is important and the department is looking for anyone with possible recognition of the identifying factors or information to come forward.

“The part that keeps us going is that we know we’ve done all we can do on our side, and we will continue to do that,” Allen said. “Even with changes in technology and stuff like that; that’s why we keep these cases open. When things change, we look at the ability of possibly doing something extra or new if we can. We would like to give some closure to somebody, because someone is missing a loved one.”

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Courtesy photo

The lower jaw of the unidentified subject contained a silver tooth, which may be one of the biggest indicators when identifying the victim.

City designates Historic East Winter Garden Neighborhood

Winter Garden commissioners passed the resolution with the help of community organization One Winter Garden.

torical landmarks such as the Maxey Community Center, the former historic Maxey Elementary School building and the historic Charles R. Drew High School. The city made sure this was about our people, and tonight, they saw us.”

HISTORIC HOME

to the Historic East Winter Garden Neighborhood at its commission meeting Thursday, Feb. 8.

City staff said the change has been repeatedly requested by the community during the city’s various outreach efforts, and the community believes the name Historic East Winter Garden Neighborhood better represents the spirit of the community in a manner that is respectful and dignifying.

The resolution was passed with the help of local community organization One Winter Garden.

“The city worked very carefully with us to make sure this was right,” One Winter Garden officials wrote in a Facebook post following the meeting. “We proposed map changes, verbiage adjustments and added his-

One Winter Garden exists to foster community outreach for east Winter Garden by advocating for programs and enhancements. The organization seeks to unite the affluent communities of Winter Garden, along with the historically underserved community of east Winter Garden, through awareness and outreach campaigns.

The resolution came from a collaborative effort with the help of Danykqua Faulk, president of One Winter Garden; Chloe Johnson, vice president of One Winter Garden; Austin Arthur, treasurer and secretary of One Winter Garden; and other board members, including Jamie Holley, past president; Charlie Mae Wilder; Patricia Angry; Carol Ward; Eric Debose; and Angelia Taylor Dean.

Those leaders worked with com-

munity members, neighboring allies, Winter Garden Mayor John Rees, District 3 Commissioner Mark A. Maciel, City Manager Jon C. Williams, Economic Development Director Marc Hutchinson and former Economic Development Director Tanja Gerhartz to create the resolution leading to the designation.

Hutchinson said One Winter Garden approached the city in November with the proposal.

“The city fully supports this view and is enthusiastic to partner with One Winter Garden in this resolution,” he said.

“We always want to celebrate the rich African-American culture in east Winter Garden; (we) always have,” Maciel said. “The city is here for you. If there’s anything else or any other things you would like to see or like us to do, we’re all ears. … We usually can deliver. If we can, we will.”

Faulk said One Winter Garden is proud of the unique history in east Winter Garden.

“We have (a) heritage of loving family, loving friends and loving God,” she said. “Thank you for recognizing our unique history and for including us during the process of this special designation bringing additional dignity to our area.”

IN OTHER NEWS

n Police Chief Steve Graham swore in four new officers in front of the Winter Garden City Commission: Spencer Gray, Ryan McMorrow, Lorenzo Ramirez and Jermaine Owens.

n The commission approved the site plan for the Tucker Ranch Health and Wellness Park at 100 Avalon Road.

n Commissioners approved awarding a purchase order to Vermana Pool Contractors for refurbishment of Bouler Pool in the amount of $90,200, which includes a 10% contingency.

n Winter Garden approved the purchase of two 2016 Freightliner Rescue Ambulances, including preparation from the Waldorf Volunteer Fire Department, in the amount of $123,000.

n The commission approved the city manager to determine vehicles and equipment as surplus as well as authorize sale or disposal if necessary.

n The city approved two purchase orders: one to TD Thomson Construction for two sanitary manholes and piping on South Lakeview Avenue in the amount

of $121,779.20, and another to Atlantic Pipe Services for Valencia Shores to line a portion of the sanitary sewer mains, as well as replace frames and covers, in the amount of $143,653.66.

n Commissioners approved the acquisition of three pieces of property and authorized the city manager to execute all documents necessary. The properties are located at 813 E. Bay St., from Curtis J and G Properties; 681 W. Plant St., from CenturyLink of Florida; and the area southeast of South Highland Avenue and Tremaine Street, from Christos and Deborah Anthony Trust.

n Winter Garden approved authorizing the city manager to sign property agreements up to $300,000.

n The commission approved two special events: the West Orange High School Sen’ya Later School Parade Wednesday, May 15, and the Rotary Club of Winter Garden’s Evening at the Pops Concert Saturday, March 23.

n The city acknowledged the announcement of retirement from Mike Cain, who serves as the fleet and facilities division manager.

A multitude of members from One Winter Garden and the east Winter Garden neighborhood attended the commission meeting to hear the resolution.

Courtesy photo

Will Shadrix be Ocoee’s next city manager?

IN OTHER NEWS

n Mayor Rusty Johnson read a proclamation on Black History Month at the Ocoee City Commission meeting. “(The month) serves as a celebration of African-American achievements and the crucial role they had in U.S history, as well as time to recognize the severe adversity generations of black Americans had to overcome to achieve legitimate citizenship in our society,” he said. During the proclamation, Johnson also spoke on the city’s efforts to honor the monthlong celebration, such as its 19th annual Black History Month essay contest open to fifth-grade students who attend Ocoee’s elementary schools, and the programming residents can watch on Ocoee TV that highlight significant people and events from African American history. Residents also will be able to visit a Black History Month installment at City Hall that has biographical portraits of notable African Americans.

SAM ALBUQUERQUE SPORTS EDITOR

For two decades, Robert Frank has served as Ocoee’s city manager. Frank announced his retirement in January, giving the Ocoee City Commission the difficult task of replacing a longtime leader.

However, the commission may have found its perfect candidate in-house.

At their Tuesday, Feb. 6, meeting, city commissioners named longtime Assistant City Manager Craig Shadrix as their preference to succeed Frank.

“(At the) last meeting … we asked the city manager to draft a contract for our approval,” Commissioner Rosemary Wilsen said. “But I don’t think we really said (or) if anyone mentioned what the contract was for, and I’m going to go ahead and ask. Personally, I would like us to appoint Craig Shadrix as our city manager when Rob retires.”

Shadrix has served in his current role since 2010 and has worked for the city since 2008.

Shadrix has not yet publicly accepted the position, nor did the city publicly announce him as the next city manager, but in the meeting, the question was asked and answered if the commission could go ahead and designate him as the successor to Frank.

“It’s not illegal to go ahead and name him as the succeeding person before that date?” Mayor Rusty Johnson asked City Attorney Richard Geller.

“You can designate him as the successor to Mr. Frank,” Geller replied.

Frank added: “When we present (the contract) to you, we feel we’re presenting something that has already received his (passing) approval. We’re not going to let him see it the first time when it makes the agenda.”

n Human Relations and Diversity Board member Kellie Beck presented the HRDB’s new initiative for the year: “Diversity Drives Ocoee: A Journey to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion,” which “aims to provide a structured and continuous educational program that aligns with the objectives of the HRDB as outlined in its bylaws.” Through a collaboration with the Orange County Library System’s partnership with LinkedIn Learning, Ocoee residents will be able to take monthly courses on topics aligned with various diversity months, to educate, engage and empower the community to embrace diversity, equity and inclusion principles. This initiative will be free to residents.

n The commission also approved spending the necessary amount to create and distribute an HRDB brochure and survey. The brochure will be sent to residents through water bills.

n Commissioner Scott Kennedy made two requests for future agenda items during his allotted comment time. First, he wants to hold a discussion with the new city attorney about his recommendations for commission rules and procedures. The commissioners agreed by consensus to add this agenda item in a future meeting. Second, Kennedy requested another agenda item to discuss any of the city attorney’s recommendations about possible charter amendments or city ordinances he may have. This also was approved by consensus.

n Commissioner Rosemary Wilsen requested a small road closure for the Spring Into Conservation event at Unity Park, which the commission approved by consensus. During this request, an interesting precedent note was made by Frank — requests for small road closures are, in the staff’s interpretation, unnecessary to bring to the commission. “We think … we only need (the commission’s approval) when there’s going to be some type of shutdown of a vast number of streets and something greater than just some type of neighborhood celebration,” he said.

PHMSA Environmental Review Notice of Availability

In cooperation with the Lake Apopka Natural Gas District, Orange County, Florida, the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA), has prepared a Tier 2 Environmental Assessment (EA), as required by the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969, for the proposed replacement of approximately 13.13 miles of vintage steel and vintage plastic polyethylene (PE) pipe in multiple areas of the system with modern polyethylene pipe. PHMSA published a Tier 1 Nationwide EA for the Natural Gas Distribution Infrastructure Safety and Modernization Grant Program (NGDISM) on November 9, 2022. The stated purpose of NGDISM is for municipality or community owned utilities to repair, rehabilitate, or replace its natural gas distribution pipeline system or portions thereof or to acquire equipment to (1) reduce incidents and fatalities and (2) avoid economic losses by providing grant opportunities to municipality or community owned utilities.

The Tier 1 EA is available at https://www.phmsa.dot.gov/sites/phmsa. dot.gov/files/2023-07/Tier-1-PHMSA-2022-0123-0001.pdf. The Tier 2 EA is available for review and comment on the web at https://www.phmsa. dot.gov/about-phmsa/working-phmsa/grants/pipeline/tier-2-site-specificenvironmental-documents and a copy is available at Lake Apopka Natural Gas District, 1320 Winter Garden Vineland Road, Winter Garden, FL 34787.

Please submit all comments to: PHMSABILGrantNEPAComments@ dot.gov and reference NGDISM-FY22-EA-2023-20 in your response. Pursuant to the National Historic Preservation Act, PHMSA has issued a No Historic Properties Affected finding which is available for review in the Tier 2 EA. Comments on the Tier 2 EA are due by March 11, 2024.

Courtesy photo Longtime Ocoee Assistant City Manager Craig Shadrix was named as the City Commission’s choice to succeed retiring City Manager Robert Frank.

Works of HeART

PJ Svejda

The painter is inspired by the range of emotions humans feel.

The mission of the Winter Garden Art Association is to showcase, encourage and celebrate individual creativity and artistic expression among local artists. West Orange County is teeming with artists whose talents range from visual to performing to literary arts. Whether they are expressing themselves with a microphone, paint brush and canvas, or the written word, artists and their creations give us avenues in which to imagine, dream and wonder.

In this new feature, the Observer and the WGAA will highlight a local artist monthly. This month, meet Mount Dora resident and painter PJ Svejda.

How long have you have been creating?

I have been creating since childhood, but I suppose my career began in college.

What are your favorite mediums?

My favorite medium would be painting. I am primarily an oil painter but will also use acrylics and other mixed media such as a spray can or watercolor, also.

What are your favorite themes in your artwork?

I would call myself a portrait artist.

I really love to incorporate female portraits with elements of nature. I also love painting animals. I am big on conservation, so most of my artwork revolves around the theme of coexistence with nature.

Do you have a formal art education?

I went to the Savannah College of Art and Design and received an undergraduate degree in illustration and a master’s degree in painting. While in college, I taught art and worked as a commission and gallery artist.

Why is expressing yourself through art important to you?

Expressing myself through art has given me the great opportunity to have a platform to speak on the issues that are important to me

without the anxiety of a heated debate. I am able to depict my thoughts and concerns and ideas in an artistic way that lets people decide for themselves how to interpret what they see. The hope is that my art is inspiring enough to help people consider the way we share this planet and love the beauty that often gets overlooked.

Who is your favorite famous artist and why?

One of my favorite painters is John Singer Sargent. I love the way he focuses on the portrait but then becomes more gestural with everything else. I have several contemporary artists that I am constantly in awe over. An artist named Martin Wittfooth is definitely at the top of my list.

What notable places has your artwork been displayed?

My work has been displayed all over Central Florida, mostly Orlando, as well as in Miami. Probably the most notable show would be Art Basel in Miami.

In which museum (worldwide) would you most like to see your artwork displayed and why?

I would say the dream goal for having my work displayed would be in Think Space Gallery in Los Angeles. They host some of the most creative, talented, contemporary artists that I have seen.

What accolades and awards have you received?

Over the past couple years, I have won several awards, including third place at the Revelation Renaissance show and first place at the Alice in Wonderland show, both held at City Arts in Orlando.

What is your website?

Studioartfarm.com

— AMY QUESINBERRY

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

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

Starke Lake Baptist Church

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

www.StarkeLakeBaptist.org

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

www.VBCOCOEE.com

Sunday: 11AM & 6 PM

Wednesday: 7 PM

CHURCH OF GOD

Ocoee Church of God

Pastor Graham Chancey 1105 N. Lakewood Ave.,Ocoee (407) 656-8011

EPISCOPAL

Church of the Messiah

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

www.ChurchoftheMessiah.com

METHODIST

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

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

PJ SVEJDA (self portrait)

Chaine du Lac estate sells for $5,400,000

Ahome in the Chaine du Lac community in Windermere topped all West Orange-area residential real-estate transactions from Feb. 3 to 10.

The home at 12632 Park Ave., Windermere, sold Feb. 8, for $5,400,000.

Built in 2014, it has six bedrooms, nine-and-one-half baths and 10,213 square feet of living area. Days on market: 160. The sellers were represented by the Julie Bettosini Team with Stockworth Realty Group.

redfin.com The

home at 12632 Park Ave., Windermere, sold Feb. 8, for

PHILLIPS COVE

TANGELO PARK

DR. PHILLIPS

ARLINGTON BAY

The home at 9246 Edenshire Circle, Orlando, sold Feb. 5, for $620,000. Built in 2005, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 2,584 square feet of living area. Days on market: Three.

BAY HILL COVE

The home at 8810 Great Cove Drive, Orlando, sold Feb. 9, for $900,000. Built in 1998, it has four bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 2,865 square feet of living area. Days on market: 108.

HUNTERS ESTATES

The home at 8273 Wilson Terrace, Orlando, sold Feb. 5, for $750,000. Built in 1983, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 4,110 square feet of living area. Days on market: 20.

ORANGE TREE COUNTRY CLUB

The home at 6609 Parson Brown Drive, Orlando, sold Feb. 9, for $680,000. Built in 1979, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,941 square feet of living area. Days on market: Nine.

The home at 6620 Parson Brown Court, Orlando, sold Feb. 5, for $650,000. Built in 1978, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,174 square feet of living area. Days on market: 119.

The home at 7002 Phillips Cove Court, No. 25, Orlando, sold Feb. 7, for $1,225,000. Built in 2007, it has five bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths and 3,652 square feet of living area. Days on market: Five.

SAND LAKE HILLS

The home at 6812 Sugarbush Drive, Orlando, sold Feb. 6, for $580,000. Built in 1978, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 1,937 square feet of living area. Days on market: 65.

SHADOW BAY SPRINGS

The home at 5345 Bay Lagoon Circle, Orlando, sold Feb. 7, for $475,000. Built in 1985, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 2,074 square feet of living area. Days on market: 19.

The home at 5119 Polaris St., Orlando, sold Feb. 7, for $225,000. Built in 1961, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,000 square feet of living area. Days on market: Two.

WINDHOVER CONDOMINIUMS

The condo at 5946 Peregrine Ave., No. B03, Orlando, sold Feb. 7, for $183,500. Built in 1974, it has one bedroom, one bath and 918 square feet of living area.

GOTHA GOTHA

The home at 1557 Blackwood Ave., Gotha, sold Feb. 5, for $600,000. Built in 2005, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 3,400 square feet of living area. Days on market: 46.

Total

VANGUARD HEIGHTS

The home at 1463 Matador Drive, Gotha, sold Feb. 9, for $400,000. Built in 1960, it has three bedrooms, one bath and 1,183 square feet of living area. Days on market: 14.

HORIZON WEST

ASHLIN PARK

The townhouse at 11618 Water Run Alley, Windermere, sold Feb. 9, for $435,000. Built in 2017, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,584 square feet of living area. Days on market: 117.

Place, Winter Garden, sold Feb. 6, for $695,000. Built in 2021, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 2,306 square feet of living area. Days on market: 205.

LAKESIDE AT LAKES

OF WINDERMERE

The condo at 11564 Mizzon Drive, No. 923, Windermere, sold Feb. 6, for $350,000. Built in 2006, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,442 square feet of living area. Days on market: 130.

PANTHER VIEW

The home at 7584 Summerlake Groves St., Winter Garden, sold Feb. 8, for $545,000. Built in 2018, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 2,075 square feet of living area. Days on market: Four.

STOREY GROVE

The home at 10007 Sequel Alley, Winter Garden, sold Feb. 6, for $560,000. Built in 2018, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 2,502 square feet of living area. Days on market: 24.

The townhouse at 11367 Great Rock St., Winter Garden, sold Feb. 7, for $467,850. Built in 2023, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,755 square feet of living area. Days on market: Five.

The townhouse at 13867 Title Way, Winter Garden, sold Feb. 5, for $445,000. Built in 2022, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,717 square feet of living area. Days on market: 26.

The townhouse at 13890 Title Way, Winter Garden, sold Feb. 8, for $439,000. Built in 2023, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,717 square feet of living area. Days on market: Five.

SUMMERLAKE

The home at 7919 Rock Dove Drive, Winter Garden, sold Feb. 5, for $500,000. Built in 2017, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,998 square feet of living area. Days on market: Two.

WATERLEIGH

The home at 16060 Scarpetta St., Winter Garden, sold Feb. 5, for $740,716. Built in 2023, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 3,327 square feet of living area. Days on market: Two.

WEST LAKE HANCOCK ESTATES

The home at 7512 Loon Ave., Winter Garden, sold Feb. 5, for $550,000. Built in 2017, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 1,721 square feet of living area. Days on market: Two.

WESTSIDE VILLAGE

The home at 7861 Berkshire Oak Alley, Windermere, sold Feb. 7, for $560,000. Built in 2018, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,214 square feet of living area. Days on market: Nine.

WINDERMERE TRAILS

The home at 9173 Outlook Rock Trail, Windermere, sold Feb. 9, for $1,075,000. Built in 2014, it has five bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 4,087 square feet of living area. Days on market: Eight.

The home at 9180 Outlook Rock Trail, Windermere, sold Feb. 7, for $660,000. Built in 2015, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,579 square feet of living area. Days on market: 58.

OAKLAND LONGLEAF AT OAKLAND

The townhouse at 1513 Sweet Apple St., Oakland, sold Feb. 8, for $374,990. Built in 2019, it has two bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,472 square feet of living area.

Days on market: 60.

OCOEE WENTWORTH

The townhouse at 2113 Brancaster Circle, Ocoee, sold Feb. 9, for $300,000. Built in 2004, it has two bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,275 square feet of living area. Days on market: Three.

WESTYN BAY

The home at 656 Cimarosa Court, Ocoee, sold Feb. 9, for $717,000. Built in 2005, it has five bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 3,674 square feet of living area. Days on market: 67.

The home at 2911 Cardassi Drive, Ocoee, sold Feb. 5, for $555,000. Built in 2007, it has five bedrooms, four baths and 3,407 square feet of living area. Days on market: 168.

WYNWOOD

The home at 2320 Greenwood Oak Drive, Ocoee, sold Feb. 8, for $463,990. Built in 2023, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 1,828 square feet. Days on market: 80.

The home at 2234 Greenwood Oak Drive, Ocoee, sold Feb. 8, for $469,990. Built in 2023, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 1,828 square feet of living area. Days on market: 46.

SOUTHWEST ORANGE

GOLDEN OAK

The home at 9764 Lounsberry Circle, Golden Oak, sold Feb. 8, for $4,550,000. Built in 2013, it has five bedrooms, five baths, two halfbaths and 4,334 square feet of living area. Days on market: Two.

WINDERMERE

CHAINE DU LAC

The home at 12632 Park Ave., Windermere, sold Feb. 8, for $5,400,000. Built in 2014, it has six bedrooms, nine-and-one-half baths and 10,213 square feet of living area. Days on market: 160.

WINTER GARDEN

BLACK LAKE PRESERVE

The home at 14457 Breakwater Way, Winter Garden, sold Feb. 5, for $585,000. Built in 2016, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,569 square feet of living area. Days on market: 14.

LAKE APOPKA SOUND

The home at 17830 Hither Hills Circle, Winter Garden, sold Feb. 6, for $904,000. Built in 2023, it has four bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 2,920 square feet of living area. Days on market: 333.

SOUTHERN PINES

CONDOMINIUMS

The condo at 143 Southern Pecan Circle, No. 203, Winter Garden, sold Feb. 9, for $281,000. Built in 2005, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,276 square feet of living area. Days on market: 42.

STONEYBROOK WEST

The home at 15131 Masthead Landing Circle, Winter Garden, sold Feb. 6, for $540,000. Built in 2004, it has four bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 2,438 square feet of living area. Days on market: 29.

VALENCIA SHORES

The home at 221 Valencia Court, Winter Garden, sold Feb. 6, for $640,000. Built in 1975, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,803 square feet of living area. Days on market: 78.

WATERSIDE ON JOHNS LAKE

The home at 1370 Waverunner Lane, Winter Garden, sold Feb. 7, for $520,000. Built in 2021, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,030 square feet of living area. Days on market: 48.

The home at 17018 Harbor Oak Parkway, Winter Garden, sold Feb. 9, for $500,000. Built in 2019, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,692 square feet of living area. Days on market: 49.

WESTFIELD LAKES

The home at 126 Blue Stone Circle, Winter Garden, sold Feb. 6, for $742,500. Built in 1998, it has five bedrooms, three baths and 3,080 square feet of living area.

WINTERMERE POINTE

The home at 2157 Wintermere Pointe Drive, Winter Garden, sold Feb. 6, for $535,000. Built in 1999, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 3,197 square feet. Days on market: 45.

Courtesy photo

The home at 7002 Philips Cove Court, No. 25, Orlando, sold Feb. 7, for $1,225,000. It was the largest transaction in Dr. Phillips from Feb. 3 to 10. The sellers were represented by Tony Davids, TD Homes Realty.

Michael Peltzer

The home at 9764 Lounsberry Circle, Golden Oak, sold Feb. 8, for $4,550,000. It was the largest transaction in the Horizon West area from Feb. 3 to 10. The sellers were represented by Ken Pozek, KW Elite Partners III.

SPORTS

HIGH 5

1Foundation Academy cheerleading has followed up its incredible recent showings — winning its fifth consecutive regional title and third consecutive FHSAA state title — by winning not only the NHSCC traditional national championship but also the World School Cheerleading championship in the large varsity non-tumbling category.

2

The FHSAA girls weightlifting state championship meets are being held Feb. 16 and 17 at Lakeland’s RP Funding Center, and the West Orange and Southwest Orange communities will be well-represented. At the Class 3A meets, district champion Ocoee High will lead the way with a pair of state qualifiers in both the Olympic and traditional categories, and in Class 2A, Horizon High’s Jordan Schwenneker will look to improve from her fifth-place finish as a freshman last year. The state’s smallest class is where the area is most represented, with Windermere Prep, The First Academy and Foundation Academy all sending lifters to compete in Lakeland.

For the Lakers, seven studentathletes qualified, including regional champions Sam Gerena and Grace Lopez — as well as podium finishers Yumi Akabane (second), Peyton Beaulieu (second), Kacey Cannon (second), Trinity Sing (third) and Zairah Farid (third). The Royals will have Grace Grant and Charity Claytor who both finished second in their regional meets in the Olympic category, and the Lions will be represented by regional champion Amelia Donaho and Kena Terry, who finished third.

3

Ocoee High girls wrestling showed out at the Class 1A, District 5 championship meet. Three wrestlers were crowned individual district champions — sophomore Shyanne Marble in the 120-pound weight class, sophomore Layla Ceballos at 140 and junior Yamii Herring at 235. To go along with its three champions, the Knights are sending seven more to regionals: Hanna Perez, Yvonnie Newby, Bailee Spitulski, Valerie Marte, Amariyah Myrie, Melanie Saucedo and Da’Zia Tyre.

4

The FHSAA soccer playoffs kicked off last week. In the smaller classifications, the West Orange and Southwest Orange areas were represented by both Windermere Prep boys and girls teams in the Class 3A tournament and the Foundation Academy boys team in Class 2A. Both Lakers teams fell in the regional quarterfinals. The girls lost at Berkeley Prep, 7-3, and finished their 2023-24 season with a 7-8-2 record. While the boys lost at home, also to Berkeley Prep, 3-0 and finished with a 13-6 record. In Class 2A, the Lions won their regional quarterfinals matchup against Foundation Christian Academy, 4-0, before falling in the semis to District 6 rival Orangewood Christian, 3-0.

5

Spring season’s sports are beginning their campaigns. Boys weightlifting and water polo seasons have begun, and tennis, lacrosse, softball, baseball, flag football and track and field also are revving up for their 2024 seasons.

Windermere boys basketball’s Chalier Torres holds currently a 3.8 unweighted GPA and crossed recently the 1,000-point mark. Page 2B.

EAT, INK BE MERRY

Student-athletes from West Orange and Southwest Orange on Feb. 7 signed their National Letters of Intent to play college sports.

ALBUQUERQUE SPORTS EDITOR

There are more than 15 million high school students in the United States. About eight million of those students participate in athletics. However, of those, only 480,000 go on to play sports at any collegiate level, according to NCAA.

So, the student-athletes from West Orange and Southwest Orange who signed to play at the next level during National Signing Day Feb. 7 are joining rare company. And regardless of whether they signed with a Division III program or a Power 4 program, the day marked the culmination of nearly a lifetime of work.

“It means a lot to me,” West Orange High football player Latorie Hollinger

Local teams shine in districts, prepare for state playoffs

With the district champions crowned and the FHSAA state playoffs brackets set, 16 area basketball teams made the cut and are ready to compete for the state crown.

SAM ALBUQUERQUE SPORTS EDITOR

With the basketball state championship tournament brackets set, eight boys and eight girls area teams across four of the seven FHSAA classifications are still in the hunt for high school sports immortality — a state title.

The state championship playoffs began this week with regional quarterfinal matchups for the girls on Feb. 14 — after this edition’s press time — and the boys on Feb. 15. State championships for both boys and girls will begin Feb. 27 and will continue through March 9.

Of those 16 area playoff teams, five finished as their district’s champions: Both the Windermere Prep boys and

girls teams won the Class 3A, District 6 titles, the Ocoee High girls won the Class 7A, District 3 title, the Dr. Phillips High girls won the Class 7A, District 5 title, and the Horizon High girls won in Class 6A, District 6.

BOYS TEAMS

The lone district title winner and reigning 3A state runner-up, Windermere Prep, enters the state playoff with a 20-7 record. The Lakers have been led by top scorer forward Brandon Bass Jr. and his 20.8 points a game and five rebounds, big man Sinan Huan, who anchors the Windermere Prep defense with his 4.5 blocks a game, and transfer guard Samuel Shoptaw, who directs the offense with 5.9 assists an outing.

However, for the Lakers to get back

to the title game and win, they know it starts and ends with their effort on the defensive end.

“We have to continue to lock up on defense,” Shoptaw said following a 62-51 district-title win over The First Academy. “That’s been the main focus for us this whole season is defense. Everything starts on the defensive end, and we’ve had a few games where we’ve shown up really well and gotten to our potential. Then there are games we’ve played down. … As we continue to go forward in the postseason, we have to keep up our performance on defense.”

Moving up to the state’s highest classification, Class 7A, there are three area teams representing West and Southwest Orange County. District 3 runner-up Ocoee enters the playoffs with a 19-9 record and has been led by 1,000-point scorer Justynn Thomas, who averages 13.9 points a game, and leading playmaker

SAM

Six Olympia High football players signed their National Letters of Intent at the school’s auditorium on Feb. 7.

Photos by Sam Albuquerque

Three West Orange football players announced their college decisions at a ceremony in the school’s gym.

Top: Legacy Charter’s Vaughn Scusa signed to play football at Berry College while his parents, Paul and Lydia Scusa, looked on.

LOCAL PAGE 3B

SPONSORED BY MARK’S FLOORING AND

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Chalier Torres

At 15.2 points per game, 8.3 rebounds and 5.5 assists, Windermere High boys basketball player Chalier Torres has been lighting it up on the hardwood this season helping the Wolverines reach the Class 7A, District 5 title game and amass a 19-8 record so far. The threeyear starter and U17 Puerto Rican national team player is a 6-foot-4 combo guard/wing who can hit jumpers from anywhere on the court. His combination of both playmaking and scoring with his size and handle make it clear why he has offers to play at the next level — and why he’ll be vital to Windermere’s postseason run.

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

It feels great. Never in my life have I thought I’d have this moment. But here it is, and it feels amazing.

What does it feel like to have scored more than 1,000 points in your high school career?

It feels amazing. I’ve worked hard all these years and have had good teammates and coaches who have helped me along the way. I will never forget the moment I passed 1,000 points.

What do you like the most about playing basketball?

It’s fun for me; it takes all my worries and stress away. I meet new people and make friends. It’s always a good time being around basketball.

What is your goal for the rest of this season, for yourself and the team?

My goal is to go to states and prove everybody wrong. People didn’t believe in us, but we didn’t listen and kept working.

A goal for myself is to be a great leader and help my younger guys grow to become better people and basketball players.

What’s the biggest lesson you have learned from basketball?

Fight through adversity; don’t give up.

Who is your favorite basketball player, and what do you like about his game?

Devin Booker. I’ve liked him since I was young. I was always so intrigued with how he played, he’s a big guard — which I’m in the same boat as him — so I look at him to model my game after.

Favorite basketball memory?

I’d say in the summer of sixth grade in AAU, when nationals were really big, and everybody would come out, and that’s how

THE BASICS

Age: 18

School: Windermere High

Sport: Boys basketball

Grade: Senior

the real best team was determined. Even though we finished in fifth, I believe, the experience was great. We had a game in the quarterfinals where everyone was there. It was super loud and a close game. We ended up losing in the end, but it was the most fun we all had. The next game we played at the tournament, we won off my teammate’s buzzer-beating shot, and we all celebrated. I really enjoyed our time that year.

What is your go-to pregame meal?

Usually, I eat a plate of rice, beans and chicken, with some plantains, as well.

What’s your go-to pregame hype song? “Power” by OT7 Quanny.

What is your favorite nonbasketball hobby?

Cooking; I love making food.

What is your favorite subject in school? Economics or health. Economics, because I get to learn about money and how those types of things work. And health, because in those classes, we get to learn about the anatomy of your body and muscles, care and prevention, and taking care of your body.

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

A knife for cutting or protection, a dog to help me and keep me company, and a satellite phone so I can communicate with people if I need it.

What is your favorite movie?

I don’t have a favorite movie, because I don’t watch them like that. But I do have a favorite TV show, and it’s “Snowfall.” It’s the best show out. It shows how Franklin never gave up and got what he wanted and didn’t let anything get in his way.

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

Jesus Christ. I’d ask Him about everything, know everything He has planned and what I need to learn from

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

To the ancient times when there was nothing. I want to see how things were created, what people did, how I could help, and understand where we came from and why we are here.

— SAM ALBUQUERQUE

West Orange alum to host free youth basketball clinic

Wendell Coates Jr., along with current and former NBA players, will host 150 kids for a free basketball clinic in March.

SAM ALBUQUERQUE SPORTS EDITOR

West Orange County community leader Wendell Coates Jr., a former West Orange boys basketball player, has been giving back to the area he calls home for years now as a basketball coach. Currently, he serves as

WANT TO PLAY?

FREE BASKETBALL CLINIC

WHEN: 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friday, March 23

WHERE: 309 S. West Crown Point Road, Winter Garden

DETAILS: Both boys and girls from ages 8 to 17 are invited to register for the event; the clinic is limited to 150 participants INFORMATION: Email Coates at GlobalNotLocalAAU@Gmail. com or follow his social media pages, which he updates daily. You can find his Facebook under the name Dell Coates, and his Instagram handle is @ LiveALegacy_.

the coach of Oak Ridge High’s junior varsity team, as the founder of the non-profit Global Not Local Cares, Inc. and as the youth community director for The Kingdom Church.

But he’s not done yet.

The next way Coates wants to give back to his community is by hosting 150 kids for a free basketball clinic from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friday, March 23, at the West Orange Recreation Center in Winter Garden.

“It’s in my heart to give back to these kids, man,” Coates said. “I’ve been exposed to a lot of cool things over my years, especially in basketball, which that’s my first love. So, I feel like it would be unjust for me not to come back to my community and pour the things I’ve learned back into this place.”

For Coates, this clinic is about teaching kids who otherwise would not have an avenue to learn about the game. The lessons will include drills on the fundamentals they need to grow their skills independently, without spending any money.

“We never know what these kids are going to grow up to be,” Coates said. “So I want to be part of helping them become whatever they can be. I want to do my part to try and help them get to their next level.

“We’re going to have a lot of fundamental drills that are going to help show the kids what’s necessary to be a good basketball player,” he said. “We’re going to go into the

Area teams begin quests for state titles

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1B

Justin Smith, who has averaged 3.5 assists and 11.5 points.

Meanwhile, in District 5, Windermere (19-8) finished as the runnerup after taking Oak Ridge to the wire before losing by one in the final.

Having played a grueling schedule, the Wolverines know what they have to do to make a run.

“We just have to continue to share the ball and rebound,” Windermere coach Mark Griseck said. “We also have to be locked in defensively. … We’re going to have to really compete and take care of the ball. And ultimately, we have to make some shots.”

Griseck’s lead guard, Ta’Veon Jones, thinks they could be a tough out in the playoffs, regardless of who they play, if the Wolverines can play as a unit.

“We just have to lock in like we did tonight (at Olympia),” Jones said. “When we are playing together, it’s really hard to beat us.”

Windermere rival Olympia (18-8), led by its three-headed backcourt trio of seniors Kameren Wright, and his 16.2 points a game, Kaiden White and Vophcy Prophete, have a very talented lineup.

Along with these four; TFA (1512), Foundation (17-9), CFCA (6-18) and Legacy (14-10) all earned playoff berths.

GIRLS TEAMS

On the girl’s side, the No. 1 seed in Class 7A Dr. Phillips stands above the rest as the favorite. The backto-back defending state champion Panthers have kept the dynasty rolling in 2023-24 by winning the District 5 title and entering the playoffs with a 22-4 record — having not lost a game since Dec. 18. DP’s point guard, Trinity Turner, a Georgia commit, has again been outstanding in her final high school season. She enters the postseason just 86 points away from the 2,000-career-point

details and show them the work behind what they see on TV. Show them drills that they might not even know about and that they could do without a trainer, without spending crazy money. Drills they could take home and work on by themselves. I just want to expose the community to the resources we have and let them know that it doesn’t take a lot of money to become a better basketball player.”

Although Coates couldn’t name any names, he confirmed there will be former and active NBA players helping coach those fundamental skills and drills at the clinic.

In addition to the on-court activities, free uniforms, food and Gatorade will be provided to all 150 participants of the six-hour clinic. All participants will have to provide is a pair of athletic shoes.

REGIONAL QUARTERFINALS

BOYS

All games will be on Feb. 15

CLASS 7A

milestone, 39 rebounds from 1,000 career boards, 26 assists from 700 and 45 steals from 400 — which if projected based on her 23-24 averages and the Panthers making a deep run, she should surpass each mark except steals.

For the Panthers, the key to a threepeat is all about staying healthy and keeping their eyes on the prize.

“We just need to keep focusing in practice and going 100% out there every day,” Turner said. “We just need to stay locked in. If we do what we’re supposed to do, we’re unstoppable.”

Despite being the favorite in 7A, Dr. Phillips will have a target on its back. Ocoee (20-5), the District 3 champion, and West Orange (13-12) will do all they can to bring the Goliath down.

For the Knights, that means seniors Paris Triplett and Micah Hannah have to lead the way. On the inside, Triplett has been effective this season, averaging 7.8 points and 7.6 rebounds a night, while Hannah has been a menace on the wing. A two-sport star, Hannah has led the Knights in scoring with 15.6 points a game and in steals with a whopping 7.2 per outing. Ocoee coach Marcus Spencer is preaching consistency to his players as they approach a tough opening matchup against Timber Creek.

“We need to come together and work on the things we’ve been working on since the spring,” Spencer said. “They just have to stay with it, believe in one. ... That’s all we really can ask for.”

At the lower classifications, district champions Horizon and Windermere Prep are both No. 3 seeds and will host at least one playoff game. No. 1 CFCA can host every game until the final four.

Beyond these five, No. 4 West Orange, No. 7 TFA and No. 8 Foundation round out the area’s playoff teams.

n No. 2 Olympia hosts No. 7 Central at 7 p.m.

n No. 3 Windermere hosts No. 6 Palm Beach Lakes at 7 p.m.

n No. 5 Ocoee travels to No. 4 Lake Brantley at 7 p.m.

CLASS 3A

n No. 1 Windermere Prep hosts No. 8 Foundation Academy at 7 p.m.

n No. 6 The First Academy travels to No. 3 Holy Trinity Episcopal Academy

CLASS 2A

n No. 5 Legacy Charter travels to No. 4 Mount Dora Christian

n No. 8 Central Florida Christian Academy travels to No. 1 Victory Christian

GIRLS

All games were played on Feb. 14, after press time Tuesday.

CLASS 7A

n No. 1 Dr. Phillips hosted No. 8 Tohopekaliga

n No. 4 West Orange hosted No. 5 Centennial

n No. 5 Ocoee hosted No. 4 Timber Creek

CLASS 6A

n No. 3 Horizon hosted No. 6 Lake Minneola

CLASS 3A

n No. 3 Windermere Prep hosted No. 6 Edgewood

n No. 7 The First Academy traveled to No. 2 King’s Academy

n No. 8 Foundation Academy traveled to No. 1 Seffner Christian

CLASS 2A

n No. 1 Central Florida Christian Academy hosted No. 8 Academy at the Lakes

File photo

Wendell Coates Jr. is all about giving back to the area he calls home.

Local students make college selections

Jr., who signed with Mars Hill University, said. “I’ve always dreamed of playing college football as a kid, and today, seeing my National Letter of Intent signed means I’m that much closer to achieving that dream.”

Not only is it a dream for the players to sign their NLI but also for their coaches.

“Every time we have these ceremonies, it means that we’re doing things right,” Olympia football coach Travis Gabriel said. “It means we’re helping kids accomplish their goals and dreams. I remember myself trying to live these dreams out, as well, so I know what they’re feeling. This is a once-in-a-lifetime event, a dream come true for these young men. … That’s the whole point of why we coaches do this.”

Beyond the accomplishment of fulfilling a lifelong dream, this day also represents the justification for the long hours these students have put into perfecting their craft.

“All the work I put in feels like it’s starting to pay off,” West Orange linebacker and University of West Florida football signee Tavarrius Powell said. “I’ve always put my trust in Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior, and I give all the credit to him. … And with Him by my side, I always knew He’d give me the strength to work hard and find the place to call home.”

ONE SHOT, ONE OPPORTUNITY

For many athletes such as Powell, this most recent accomplishment took years of work. They’ve built their case for a collegiate roster spot by developing their games and bodies — all while making sure their film and name get in front of college coaches.

However, for some, it’s not a lifelong pursuit. It’s more like the famous Eminem lyric, “You only get one shot, do not miss your chance to blow. This opportunity comes once in a lifetime.”

For Legacy Charter’s Vaughn Scusa, a Berry College football signee, this moment was a representation of him seizing an opportunity.

“This is his dream … and even though he’s only been around the sport for a year, it’s something that from the second he stepped onto the field in the spring, he told me he wanted,” Legacy football coach Zachary Fox said. “He got here because of all the hard work he put in. … He was a kid who lived, breathed and ate football. A sleep-with-the-playbookunder-your-pillow type of kid. He did everything he could to learn and get better — whether it was playing multiple positions, studying with me or getting in extra reps after practice.”

Scusa, who was a soccer player for the majority of his life, decided in senior year to trade in his shin pads for shoulder pads.

“I would have never thought two years ago that I’d be here today, signing to play college football, but here I am, and it’s a really exciting opportunity,” Scusa said. “It’s been such a fun sport to play; I love the physicality of it. I just feel honored, given my journey here, that I get the opportunity to keep playing this sport.”

SUPPORT SYSTEM

Ultimately, the hard work and dedica-

tion put in by these student-athletes are the primary reasons they’ve been able to accomplish all they have in sports, but no person is an island. Each one of these young men and women had the support of someone in this pursuit — whether it be their parents, coach, teammate or friend.

For West Orange alumnus and football coach Geno Thompson, being part of his players’ support system is the priority, and getting them to college plays a vital role in how he approaches running the program.

“First and foremost, it’s an honor to be in this position, being a former student here (Class of 2003), to be able to come back to your high school and take the reins of the program to help raise and have an impact on these young men is such a blessing,” Thompson said. “That’s the most important thing for me and part of that is kind of our ‘why’ here at West Orange and that’s to get kids to college. Obviously, when we go out on the field Friday nights, we play to win the game. But, the ultimate goal is getting these kids to college.”

DECISIONS, DECISIONS

Because of the various opportunities that playing their sport in college affords these student-athletes, the reason they chose one school over the other also varies.

For Hollinger, Mars Hill felt like the right fit because of the impact the coaches and environment could have on his growth.

“It’s great for me because I feel like there I have the chance to be molded as a player on the field and as a man off the field,” he said.

His teammate Chaka Scott, a St. Thomas University football signee, prioritized something else.

“It’s definitely a great environment, the coaches are great and it’s a great space for me to study and get my degree, but also it was important that it was close to home,” he said.

According to his father, Paul Scusa, one of the reasons Vaughn is heading to Mount Berry, Georgia — a sevenplus hour drive from Orlando — is one of the programs that Berry offers.

“We were very impressed with the school in general, but what was really cool is they offer a degree that’s quite unique called Creative Technologies,” Paul Scusa said. “The program combines technical engineering elements, with creative elements, which is so Vaughn.”

GET ME ON THE FIELD

Yes, most of these student-athletes are conscious about the opportunity they have by playing at the next level and how it can positively impact their futures, but at the end of the day, each of them — to a certain extent — earned this opportunity by being high-level competitors.

“I’m excited to get up to West Florida; they’re getting a dog in me,” Powell said. “I’m trying to win a championship.”

“Hopefully they’re getting a good slot receiver for the future and a man of God, who can help lead the team to great things,” Vaguhn Scusa said.

“They can expect me to come in and be a vocal guy early,” Hollinger said. “I have a lot of passion for the game.”

INFLUENCER OF THE WEEK

MATTHEW THOMPSON

OCOEE MIDDLE SCHOOL

Matthew Thompson is the food and nutrition manager at Ocoee Middle School, and he is responsible for feeding more than 1,000 students breakfast, lunch, dinner and a snack. He has won the Manager of the Year Award, although he said he feels like he wins every year, even if he doesn’t receive the winning trophy.

“Mr. Thompson is one of the most compassionate and attentive adults on our campus,” Ocoee Middle Principal Cheri Leavitt said. “He is known by nearly every single student at Ocoee Middle. He is always encouraging students and serves as a strong, confident role-model for our students. He knows the students and their situations, and makes an effort to make connections on a daily basis. He uses the fact that he sees nearly every student to serve as a parental figure, mentor and so much more.

“He is always willing to assist and shows up when you need him most,” she said. “He attends every single OMS evening event and provides support anywhere it’s needed. You can always expect Mr. Thompson to be the shining light at OMS. He is an absolute pleasure to have on campus for students and staffulty members, and Ocoee Middle School would not be the same without him!”

What brought you to your school? I wanted to spend more time with my kids at home, so I quit my job at Disney and started working for the school system.

What do you love most about your school? The students — interacting with them and seeing how they mature and develop over the years.

REPORT CARD

POSITION: Food and nutrition manager TIME AT SCHOOL: 17 years

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

Seeing students or staff members smile whenever I’m able to assist them. That smile of gratitude is all I need.

What would you be if you weren’t in this profession?

I would be working in the construction field.

Who influences you?

My father. He’s a very likable man and is very hardworking. He allowed me to be independent as I grew up and encouraged me with his calm demeanor.

Who was your favorite teacher when you were in school? Why? It was our principal. I spent countless hours with him throughout my high school career.

What is your favorite children’s book and why?

I’ve read so many children’s book that it’s hard to find a good choice, but “James and the Giant Peach” was pretty wild.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

I enjoy spending time with friends and families. I really never have any spare time, as I keep myself busy with fishing, camping, handyman work, grandchildren and my chickens and watching football. Go Bills!

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

Josh Allen, because he’s not only a good football player, but he wasn’t highly recruited out of college and nobody gave him a shot. He still kept going and now is easily one of the better quarterbacks around.

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

I already have the superpower to feed hungry kids, so I’m good.

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

I would only listen to Shane Smith and the Saints because they’re the best.

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

The square pizza from the cafeteria was legendary.

What is your favorite holiday and why?

It’s a tie between the Fourth of July and Thanksgiving. Fireworks and camping vs. eating too much. My favorite things.

Who was your best friend when you were in school and why? Are you still in touch? Kevin, and, yeah, we stay in touch, but we live too far apart now.

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

Nothing that I can share, as I was a little troublemaker growing up.

AMY QUESINBERRY

Windermere Elementary spins up springtime fun at carnival

Windermere Elementary School hosted its annual spring carnival Saturday, Feb. 10, at the school. The event, organized by the school’s Parent Teacher Organization, included a multitude of festivities for students, friends and family members. Mustangs enjoyed food trucks, bounce houses, carnival games, music, a silent auction, face painting, fairy hair, a teacher dunk tank, sweet treats and more.

— ANNABELLE

SIKES Gotha Middle School students Quinlin Rossi and Reese Rucki volunteered at the carnival game booths.

Jeff Walters brought his new puppy to the spring carnival.

Abby DiCocco, Ana Zekirovski and Sophie DiCocco ran around the school’s green area together.

A deejay from Event Concepts played groovy tunes and led attendees in a series of competitive games.

James and Bowen Karr enjoyed an ice cold treat while taking their shot at one of the many available games.

SOCPS presents 40% construction update for relief elementary school

recent

at nearby Water Spring

School. The meeting took place

Feb. 8, at Water Spring. It also was announced that Matthew Hendricks, Water Spring Elementary’s principal, has been tapped

and north of Water Spring Middle School. SchenkelShultz is the project architect. At capacity, the school will hold 853 students; the first-year projection is 725 students.

Shine

The elementary school will include a two-story structure with a large interior courtyard, outdoor art labs and two playgrounds. The front of the school will house the office, media center, art and music rooms, multipurpose cafeteria and kitchen, with classrooms and labs to the rear. The second floor will contain classrooms and skills lab as well. A Discovery STEM lab is included. Parent drop-off will be in the front off Atwater Bay Drive. The school will have parking for 140 vehicles, as well as a stacking capability of 168 vehicles and 38 buses. Brian Dorsch, project manager, and Seth Spires, site manager, both with Wellbro Building Corporation, presented the construction update. To date, more than 100,000 work hours have been put into building the facility. The site was cleaned and graded in September, the concrete tilt panels were completed in October, the structural steel erection was finished in November, work on the sanitary system on the north end of the site began in December, and the

roofing work is about 95% complete.

“There’s a lot of activities taking place in a very small area,” Spires said.

In the next few weeks, the exterior walls will be painted.

Several parents questioned traffic patterns, intersections and the safety of students who walk. There were concerns about releasing the walkers on Lost Creek Drive to the east and the number of people who will be parking along that road. Crosswalks with flashing signals are planned on Lost Creek at the northeast corner of the school property and on Atwater Bay at the southwest corner.

Other parents were upset that the intersection of Atwater Bay and Lost Creek will not have a traffic light or four-way stop signs. The Atwater Bay-Point Rock Drive intersection will be a three-way stop. These decisions have been finalized.

The school name will be decided soon, said Andy Orrell, senior manager of OCPS facilities communications. For more details on the project, visit facilities.ocps.net.

Courtesy photo

An aerial rendering shows the layout of the relief elementary school.

One of the highlights of Night to Shine is the red carpet greeting each guest receives from volunteers, making the event a special experience from the very beginning.

Guests of Night to Shine were dropped off at Family Church in limos and greeted by photographers capturing the special moment.

Courtesy photos

THESE OLD TIMES

80 years ago

Housewives were warned they might not get five pounds of canning sugar by using stamp No. 40 in War Ration Book Four. OPA announced an additional canning sugar later will be available on application to local boards.

Livestock farmers were given an additional month to slaughter hogs without a permit or license and to deliver any quantity of pork to persons not living on the farm.

Billy and Bob Davis were all smiles again after the birth of another boy at Orange General Hospital — a 7-pounder named James.

70 years ago

Cpl. Fred Shephard with the 307 Army Band, stationed at Fort McClellan, Alabama, was home to spend the weekend with his wife.

50 years ago

The city of Winter Garden was celebrating Hoyle Pounds Day with a free community fish fry at the City Auditorium. The event was to honor the “tractor dealer, inventor, industrialist and good citizen.” Prior to the celebration, Pounds had been earlier feted on the football field at the University of Florida homecoming game and was given a standing ovation as the oldest living Florida varsity football player. He played end on the 1913 Gator team.

J.L. “Lee” Bekemeyer Sr. has opened Bekemeyer Realty in the Orange Federal Savings & Loan Association building on Dillard Street. His associates are M.G. “Sonny”

Howard and H.L. “Hal” Bekemeyer Jr. The Tri-City Shopping Center on South Dillard Street announced its grand opening with the following businesses: Happy Holiday Travel, J.B. Beauty Salon & Wig

FROM THE WINTER GARDEN HERITAGE FOUNDATION

FROM THE ARCHIVES

The Richardson-Marsh packinghouse was located in Ocoee where West Tree Service was located in 2020 at the northwest corner of Oakland Avenue between the former Tavares & Gulf and Atlantic Coast Line tracks. Women worked inside the plant, grading and packing fruit; men worked in the groves. The company itself operated from Orlando in the vicinity of Orange Blossom Trail and Princeton Street where a major development is being constructed at present. Named The Packing District, it will occupy an area where major citrus packinghouses stood along the railroad tracks.

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.

Boutique, Mr. D’s Bootery, Burger Chef, Orlando Metro Realty Inc., General Electric Center, Merle Norman Cosmetic Studio & Boutique, TG&Y Family Centers, Food World, The Whiffletree, Kentucky Fried Chicken, Main Place, Griffin’s Men’s Wear, Winter Garden Sports Center, First State Bank, Cock-aDoodle-Doo Gifts Flowers & Cards, The Focal Point, and White Stores Inc.

45 years ago

The Ladies Auxiliary of the West Orange Memorial Hospital Tax Dis-

trict made possible the purchase of a van from Century Chevrolet for West Orange Manor.

40 years ago

The Butler Chain of Lakes was designated “Outstanding Florida Waters” by the Environmental Regulation Commission, which met in Orlando.

Lakeview Junior High School announced its Valentine Court:

Kim Bowen, Bradi LaPenta, Julianne Morris, Shannon Rein, Beth Pruden, Kim Craven, Holly McDowell and Ramsey Wharton.

30 years ago

The Woman’s Club of Ocoee celebrated its 70th birthday with a special luncheon. Club president was Alison Resnik. Members decorated tables according to the months of the year, and themes included June weddings, Christmas, autumn and the Fourth of July. A fashion show featuring clothing from Gerry’s Dress Shoppe of Orlando followed the meal.

THROWBACK THURSDAY

FEB. 5, 1954 Leader Department Store, in downtown Winter Garden, advertised its once-a-year sale in the Winter Garden Times in 1954. It was celebrating the business’ 21st anniversary and trying to rid the storefront of its fall and winter merchandise to make way for the spring goods. For children, patent leather dress shoes and white hightop shoes were $1.98, saddle oxfords were $2.98, and tennis shoes were $1.49. Overalls for boys and girls were priced at $1.49 to $1.98.

Girls’ dresses in the Nannette style were $1.98 to $2.98, and the Cinderella style were $2.49 to $3.59. Boys’ flannel was reduced to a low $1.49 for shirts and $1 for pajamas.

Women’s shoes were priced $3.98 and below, and 51-gauge Pretty Shade nylon hose was a mere 49 cents. Women still in need of sweaters could find them on the sale table for $1.69 to $2.69, and they could buy jackets in corduroy and gabardine for $3.98 to $5.98.

Men in the market for a new hat could grab one for $1.98 to $2.98; all dress pants could be had for $4.98 to $6.98; and men’s shirts were $1.98 for flannel, $3.98 for corduroy and $2.98 for gabardine.

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HUES ON FIRST? by Zhouqin Burnikel and Tom Pepper, edited by Jeff Chen

By Luis Campos

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