06.13.24 West Orange Times & Observer

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WINTER GARDEN HOSTING

JUNETEENTH CELEBRATION

Join the city of Winter Garden and various partners from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, June 15, for its Juneteenth Community Celebration. The event takes place at the park at 1203 E. Plant St., Winter Garden, and will offer family activities, guest speakers, children’s performances, a kids zone and more.

Seating is limited, so guests are asked to take a lawn chair or blanket. Parking is available at the Healthy West Orange building, 1200 E. Plant St., across the street from the park.

Juneteenth, also called Emancipation Day, is June 19 and officially is recognized as a federal holiday.

Biologist wins FOLA’s Jim Thomas Award

Nathalie Visscher was recognized for her tenacity in protecting Lake Apopka by fighting for the removal of hydrilla in Florida’s fourth-largest lake. SEE PAGE 7A.

Good times, grad

Praying for rain

Precipitation predicted this week could bring relief to the West Orange area, which has experienced several wildfires in recent weeks. STORY ON PAGE 4A.

Jerry Demings delivers 2024 State of the County

The mayor highlighted the county’s achievements and plans for the future during his address Friday, June 7. SEE PAGE 2A.

Meet a West Point grad!

Windermere High School alum Jacob Goldberg became the first Wolverine to complete the military academy. 3A.

Florida Forest Service enlisted its helicopters to help extinguish the May 30 fire in Lake County.

Courtesy photo

Demings highlights county’s successes

ANNABELLE SIKES

NEWS EDITOR

Orange County Mayor Jerry L.Demings

delivered his sixth annual State of the County address Friday, June 7, at the Orange County Convention Center.

The mayor highlighted last year’s accomplishments and discussed the future of the county through this year’s theme — “Building Better Together.”

Demings touched on an array of topics, including economic and financial; tourism and hospitality; affordable housing and homelessness; transportation; technology and science; and sports, arts and culture.

“We’ve had a year of remarkable achievements and continued strong economic growth,” Demings said. “It’s been a year filled with opportunities, challenges and significant milestones that have helped shape our community.”

ECONOMIC IMPACT

Central Florida remains the state’s fastest growing region.

Today, Orange County has more than 1.5 million residents, with 400 new people moving to the area each week.

By 2050,the county expects to add another

700,000 residents, which will increase the population to more than 2 million.

Demings said the growth will continue to add pressure on the county’s infrastructure and social services.

Last year, the county issued more than 80,000 permits with a development value of $2.2 billion.

Demings said tourism and hospitality continue to be the primary economic drivers in the community.

Orange County welcomed 74 million visitors generating a $87.6 billion economic impact in 2023.

Nearly 40% of the region’s workforce serves in tourism.

Multi-million-dollar projects are planned for the theme parks to continue to draw visitors.

For example, Universal Epic Universe is set to open next summer.

Universal also plans to open new attractions this summer and debut

Sensational, a nighttime fountain show with drones and a 4K video projection over the park’s lagoon.

At Walt Disney World, expansions at Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdoms are in the works.

Disney is planning what could be the largest Magic Kingdom expansion ever on a site west of Frontierland or “Beyond Big Thunder.” At Animal Kingdom, an area will be transformed into a Tropical Americas land. Later this month, the rei-

magined Splash Mountain will open as “Tiana’s Bayou Adventure.”

Disney representatives have announced their intentions to invest $17 billion into its parks and resorts over the next 20 years.

SeaWorld Orlando, which celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2023, soon will open “Penguin Trek,” a new roller coaster, while Gatorland, the area’s first theme park, celebrated its 75th anniversary this year.

LOOMING CHALLENGES

Some of Orange County’s biggest challenges are affordable housing, homelessness and transportation.

Demings said addressing affordable housing has been one of his top priorities since he took office in 2018.

As one of only a few counties in Florida with a Housing Trust Fund, the County Commission has committed more than $160 million to address housing needs.

Orange County also has helped fuel affordable-housing initiatives through public-private partnerships.

These include Catchlight Crossings with partners Universal Resorts and Wendover Housing. The 1,000-unit housing community is a first-of-itskind affordable housing solution that will transform 20 acres of land in the International Drive area into workforce housing with on-site amenities and services. The project is expected to open in 2026.

recently Walt Disney World’s plans to build 1,400 affordable housing units on 80 acres in West Orange County.

The community will be uniquely designed to complement the surrounding area and provide amenities focusing on wellness.

PUBLIC SAFETY

In addition to opening recently two new fire stations, one being in West Orange County, Orange County Fire Rescue broke ground on a new stateof-the-art training facility.

The Fire Rescue Department also launched the Blood Transfusion program in partnership with its EMS director and local hospitals. OCFR is the first fire department to offer the lifesaving program in Central Florida.

The Orange County Citizens Task Force also reconvened last year to review current crime trends and update past recommendations to address today’s needs. The county continues to support violence prevention initiatives, with most of the funding going to small, grassroots nonprofit organizations.

ment’s Community Response team continue to respond to individuals in a mental health crisis and provide opportunities for support.

SPORTS AND LEISURE

Demings said parks and recreation spaces also are essential to growing the community.

The county’s GreenPLACE program is one of the most impactful conservation initiatives in Florida. The BCC approved $100 million to preserve the area’s natural habitats in 2021. To date, the county has acquired 24,000 acres and opened more than 18,000 acres to the public for recreation. With the county’s sustainability plan, the goal is to acquire double this amount of environmentally sensitive lands.

This year, Orange County Parks and Recreation is celebrating its 100th anniversary. There are 113 parks and trails in the county with more than 14 million visitors annually.

The commission also approved

Overall, the county dedicates nearly $89 million annually to provide more than 500 programs and services for individuals and families.

Over the next 15 years, Orange County will receive more than $60 million in opioid settlement funding to implement treatment programs.

The Sheriff’s Behavioral Response Unit and the Orlando Police Depart-

Orlando also was ranked the No. 1 sports business city in America by the Sports Business Journal. The U.S. Olympic Marathon men’s and women’s trials, as well as the NFL Pro Bowl, both were held in Orlando this year. In addition, the University of Central Florida’s Knights became the nation’s youngest athletic program in the Power Five conference, and the Orlando Magic succeeded in making the Eastern Conference playoffs.

Duty, Honor, Country

Jacob Goldberg completed four years of Army education at the United States Military Academy at West Point.

AMY QUESINBERRY COMMUNITY EDITOR

Jacob Goldberg was the first Windermere High School graduate to receive an appointment to one of the five United States service academies. Now, four years later, he is the first Windermere Wolverine to graduate from one of the prestigious military academies.

Goldberg completed his education at the United States Military Academy at West Point last month. He was among the graduates at the May 25 ceremony and was commissioned as a second lieutenant. President Joe Biden was the guest speaker.

This also was Goldberg’s first graduation participation — he was in the Windermere High Class of 2020, which had no prom and no graduation ceremony because of the COVID-19 pandemic. The most recent West Point graduating class even adopted this for its motto: “Like None Before 2024.”

Following the pomp and circumstance, Goldberg returned home to Winter Garden to attend his younger brother’s high school graduation and to spend two months with family and friends before moving forward with his new career at Fort Moore (formerly Fort Benning) in Georgia.

PATH TO WEST POINT

Goldberg said his journey to West Point began in the eighth grade and he invested years of dedication and work to receive an appointment to the service academy.

“When I decided I wanted to go to West Point, I think it drove me to do a lot of things I would not have otherwise done, like trying out for sports, trying out for track team, getting better grades, taking better classes, going for leadership positions,” he said. “Just trying to get in itself prompted me to do the best I could do by seeking out all these activities.”

He also participated in marching band and was on the weightlifting team.

“I was driven to try to be wellrounded,” Goldberg said.

It paid off when U.S. Rep. Val Demings nominated him for West Point.

He and the other plebes started their four-year experience under quaran-

tine, wearing face masks and attending virtual classes. The six-week summer training was shortened to four.

Summers were Goldberg’s favorite season at West Point because he enjoyed the training — even the challenging sessions. The rest of the year was devoted to classroom study. Every cadet is expected to take two language classes; Goldberg took Por-

Jacob Goldberg graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point May 25.

not only another country’s culture, but another country’s culture at an academy that’s like us.”

Goldberg was part of the cavalry and trained with its armored vehicles during his semester there.

At West Point, he worked with tanks and armored vehicles and participated in recognizant missions and scoutings.

In between the lessons and practices, Goldberg spent all four years on the Spirit Band drumline, just as he did in high school.

“That was pretty cool, because we played at the football games, and it got me out of drill,” he said.

The band traveled with the football team to all the away games, including trips to Atlanta, Philadelphia and Texas.

SECOND LIEUTENANT

And just like that, his four years at West Point came to a close, culminating with the May graduation.

“It was pretty cool, seeing the president in person,” he said. “And we all saluted him and got to shake his hand.”

This was actually Goldberg’s second time seeing a U.S. president. Four years ago he saw President Donald Trump at the Army-Navy game.

In addition to his graduation certificate and commission as a second lieutenant, Goldberg earned academic and military achievement awards and was inducted into history and foreign language honor societies.

Home for a few months, Goldberg is taking some vacation days and preparing for what’s next. When his 60 days are up, he will be going to Fort Moore for Basic Officer Leader Course.

“West Point qualifies us to be an Army officer, then we go to BOLC to be qualified for a specific branch,” he said.

He will be working with tanks and armored vehicles and learning how to use them and how to plan and coordinate operations with them at a platoon level.

After about six months, Goldberg will join his unit, Second Brigade, Third Infantry Division, at Fort Stewart, Georgia. He expects to do a rotation in Europe with his unit, training with NATO allies.

“I want to do the best that I can as an officer,” Goldberg said. “I still have a lot of training ahead … I want to do the best I can in learning.”

tuguese and decided to minor in the language. He also spent one semester abroad at the Academia Militar das Agulhas Negras, a Brazilian military academy.

“It’s basically the equivalent of West Point but in Brazil,” Goldberg said. “It’s actually highly influenced by West Point. It was really interesting going there and seeing,

“When I decided I wanted to go to West Point, I think it drove me to do a lot of things I would not have otherwise done, like trying out for sports, trying out for track team, getting better grades, taking better classes, going for leadership positions.”

— Jacob Goldberg

Courtesy photos

Rain expected to bring relief to dry conditions

PROTECTING YOUR FAMILY AND HOME

Orange County Fire Rescue reminds citizens to take the following actions to protect their families and homes from fire danger:

n Create at least 30 feet of “defensible” — meaning clean and green — space around your home.

n Clear trash and dead vegetation from your front and backyards.

n Remove leaves and debris from roof and gutters.

n Have a plan and an emergency kit packed in case an evacuation is ordered, especially if your home directly abuts wildlands.

n Monitor local media for updates on road closures, smoke conditions and other hazards.

n Use extreme caution when grilling, camping and discarding cigarettes.

n Call 9-1-1 if you see fire in your area.

n Download the OCFL Alert app and sign up for OC Alert to stay abreast of rapidly changing conditions and warnings for the area.

n Contact Orange County Fire Rescue by email, FireRescue1@ocfl.net, or by phone, (407) 8369000.

AMY QUESINBERRY COMMUNITY EDITOR

Air-conditioners are working extra hard to keep homes cool. Vehicle temperatures are measuring above 100 degrees. Monday’s high was 97 degrees. Rainfall was expected earllier this week, and Tuesday’s high was 87 with a 90% rain chance.

This has given residents a slight break in the heat wave this week and given thirsty lawns some wet relief. According to the National Weather Service, as of press time Tuesday, rain was expected every day this week.

AccuWeather expert meteorologists are monitoring the threat of a slow-moving tropical rainstorm developing over the Gulf of Mexico this week, too, bringing more than foot of rain to parts of Florida.

The recent lack of rain boosted higher temperatures and drought conditions, and Orange County issued a burn ban to minimize wildfires.

“Central and South Florida are currently experiencing moderate to severe drought conditions,” said Alex DaSilva, AccuWeather lead hurricane forecaster. “There are portions of Central and South Florida (that) have only received 50 to 70% of the rainfall they should, year to date. This lack of rainfall has led to expansion of drought conditions this spring.”

With the severe drought conditions comes an increased chance of wildfires.

After several Central Florida wildfires in the last month, Orange County put into effect a burn ban May 31, which means all outdoor burning is prohibited unless specifically permitted for unincorporated areas of Orange County and all municipalities served by Orange County Fire Rescue, including Oakland.

This includes open fires of any type, including campfires, bonfires or yard and trash burning. Excluded are grill and pit cooking, as well as permitted firework displays.

When the local drought index meets or exceeds 500, Orange County automatically institutes a burn ban.

There are penalties for violating the county’s open burning rules if a burn pit doesn’t meet the county’s ordinance requirements. The rules are in place year-round, not just during a burn ban. A fire pit for recreational purposes is allowed if it meets the ordinance requirements.

Orange County announced the implementation of the burn ban through local news media, social

Orange County uses the Keetch-Byram Drought Index for measuring drought. It is a continuous reference scale for estimating the dryness of the soil and duff layers.

The index increases for each day without rain (the amount of increase depends on the daily high temperature) and decreases when it rains. The scale ranges from 0 (no moisture deficit) to 800. The range of the index is determined by assuming there is eight inches of moisture in a saturated soil that is readily available to the vegetation.

For different soil types, the depth of soil required to hold eight inches of moisture varies (30 inches of loam is required, 25 inches of clay is required, and 80 inches of sand is required). A prolonged drought (high KBDI) influences fire intensity largely because more fuel is available for combustion. In addition, the drying of organic material in the soil can lead to increased difficulty in fire suppression.

High values of the KBDI are an indication that conditions are favorable for the occurrence and spread of wildfires, but drought

media and the county website.

When the burn ban is lifted — after the drought index falls below 500 for seven consecutive days — the county will make the announcement through the same outlets.

Updates will be provided at ocfl. net/burnban.

Burn bans strictly are issued when drought index values soar.

“We do not typically issue burn bans during a certain time period,” said Victoria Padovan, Orange County Fire Rescue communications assistant. “For example, last year, there was a burn ban from March 28, 2023, through April 27, 2023 — thus ending a full month before this one started — and there was not one the previous year.”

BURNING DEBRIS

Escaped debris burning is one of the leading causes of wildfires in Florida, according to the Lake County Government website.

Withlacoochee Forestry Center is the field headquarters for the Florida Forest Service.

Lela Braunsch, wildfire mitigation specialist for FFS, said her department has been busy putting out both large and small wildfires. Several fires were extinguished May 30.

“If

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is not by itself a prerequisite for wildfires. Other weather factors, such as wind, temperature, relative humidity and atmospheric stability, play a major role in determining the actual fire danger.

The moisture content of the upper soil and the duff layers is an important variable in evaluating the potential danger of wildfires. To calculate the KBDI, 24-hour rainfall totals and the maximum temperature need to be measured on a daily basis.

The Florida Forest Service combines traditional rainfall observations with data derived from the National Weather Service’s WSR88D (NEXRAD) radar network to provide a detailed view of rainfall across the state for use in the KBDI. The radar data is provided to the Florida Forest Service by the National Weather Service in the form of a composite rainfall estimate that combines precipitation information from all of the NEXRAD radars and is adjusted by rain gauge data to improve quality.

Source: Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services

Crews worked a wildfire that started the night before off Johns Lake and Laguna roads in Lake County. Helicopters with Bambi Buckets carrying water were enlisted, as well as four bulldozers, three brush trucks and two airplanes, Braunsch said.

To stop the fire and protect several homes in the area that were being threatened, FFS performed a backburn, in which a fire is deliberately set opposite the original fire so it burns toward each other, meets in the middle and puts itself out. About 165 acres burned.

Also on May 30, FFS was fighting a half-acre wildfire off Carvaggio Loop, southwest of Lake Apopka near Florida’s Turnpike, in Lake County.

The day before, a three-acre fire was reported on Montevista Road on the west side of Clermont.

Two days later, on June 1, a brush fire ignited between West Oaks Mall and Clarke Road in Ocoee.

Then on June 3, FFS and Lake County Fire Rescue responded to a one-acre wildfire off State Road 33, in Groveland.

“It’s so dry, and we’re all praying for rain, and I feel like once we get some rain, it will slow it down a little bit,” Braunsch said Monday.

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Teen girl dies after tree falls on car

A 14-year-old Windermere High School student died after a tree fell onto the car in which she was riding.

According to Florida Highway Patrol reports, the accident occurred at about 6:49 p.m. Thursday, June 6, on Reams Road south of Summerlake Boulevard.

A tree on the west shoulder of Reams fell onto the roof of a 2011 Lexus.

Kayden Avera was riding in the rear right passenger seat. She was transported to Orlando Health — Horizon West Hospital, where she was pronounced dead.

Kayden’s mother, who was driving, and 12-year-old brother were not injured in the accident.

Windermere Principal Andrew Leftakis responded to the tragedy via a phone call to parents Friday, June 7.

“Today, I was notified of the tragic death of one of our students — Kayden Avera,” he said. “I know I speak for the entire Windermere High School community when I express the grief we feel at the loss of one of our own. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family as they go through this extremely difficult time, and we respect their privacy.”

A friend of the family, Tiffany Desjarlais, has launched a fundraiser to support the Averas.

Desjarlais’ stepdaughter, Ava, was Kayden’s best friend.

“Kayden was a second daughter to me,” Desjarlais wrote on the fundraising page. “She was always so sweet and kind. ... Her and Ava were like sisters. They loved each other like sisters, they bickered like sisters, (and) they were always there for each other like sisters. My heart will forever have a hole. ... Today, hug your babies close. Be grateful for the time you have. Pray hard for angels to watch over and protect your family. Always and forever, relentlessly, love one another.”

Funds raised will go toward funeral and burial expenses, as well as any other financial needs.

To donate, visit shorturl.at/U925j.

Speed enforcement traffic cameras are coming to Ocoee school zones

At its June 4 meeting, the Ocoee Commission voted to adopt an ordinance for the installation and use of traffic cameras in the city’s school zones.

SAM ALBUQUERQUE SPORTS EDITOR

At its Tuesday, June 4, meeting, the Ocoee City Commission approved unanimously — with Commissioner Richard Firstner absent — an ordinance that will add speed detection and enforcement traffic cameras to the city’s school zones.

The ordinance aligns with a state program aimed at increasing traffic safety in areas where children are present during school hours.

In the approved motion made by Commissioner Scott Kennedy, the commission not only approved the program but also directed Ocoee Police Chief Vincent Ogburn and city staff, with vendor Advanced Traffic Solutions, to begin the installation of the speed detection cameras and the subsequent process to begin enforcement of the program.

There are five schools — Citrus Elementary, Spring Lake Elementary, Ocoee Elementary, Ocoee

IN OTHER NEWS

n The consent agenda at the Tuesday, June 4, Ocoee City Commission meeting passed unanimously, with the absence of Commissioner Richard Firstner.

Items approved in the agenda included the reappointment of the Code Enforcement Board; appointments to the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board; and various contracts for maintenance and purchases around Ocoee. Those include $70,000 for two new utility

Middle and Ocoee High School — and school zones in the city of Ocoee that will see the installation of the cameras.

The commission discussed the measure at its April 16 meeting and voiced support for the program.

“I had some concerns regarding these cameras, but I think I’ve had a change of heart looking at the statistics that you (Ogburn) presented to us,” Commissioner Rosemary Wilsen said. “You look at the statistics, and I mean, we have to protect our children. I looked at the ones for the high school (and) Citrus Elementary, it’s eye-opening. It’s a great concern to me because … every life is important.”

Kennedy seconded Wilsen’s support for the program at the April meeting.

“I know we all wish there was an officer on every one of those corners writing tickets for every single mile over (the speed limit),” Kennedy said. “The statistics of people going 10 miles an hour over is scary, and

vehicles, $140,000 for a new HVAC unit at the city’s facility at 175 N. Lakeshore Drive and $67,006.05 for repairs and purchase of a well pump at the Forest Oaks Water Treatment Plant.

n Ocoee-based club soccer organization, GGS, and its boys 2008 (16U) Gold team were honored at the commission meeting following its victory in the Florida State Cup championship. As part of the honor and photo opportunity, Ocoee Mayor Rusty

if we can at least curb that and continue to recruit and hire and get more (officers), in an ideal world. So, I’ve looked at it (and) I’m all for it.”

There is no timeline currently for when the cameras will be installed at each specific school zone nor

Johnson awarded the team $500 from his discretionary fund.

n Both Johnson and Commissioner George Oliver III presented $500 scholarship checks to local Ocoee students. Oliver awarded the scholarship to Ocoee High School student Jonathan Sirju, while Johnson awarded the scholarship to West Orange High School student Lucas Dufresne.

n Although not formally read during the meeting, Johnson

for when enforcement will begin, but Ogburn explained the program has a required process of educating and warning the public before enforcement begins.

proclaimed via various postings in City Hall and on the official commission record that June 2024 in the city will be recognized as Small Cities Month. As part of the National League of Cities and its Small Cities Council, the campaign aims to encourage renewed partnerships from federal and state governments, businesses, organizations, and citizens to invest in small cities and towns to better the lives of all.

Stock photo

Speed enforcement traffic cameras are coming to Ocoee’s school zones.

American Legion commander recovering from heart surgery

Oakland resident Kurt Gies, founder of Challenge 22, had an emergency quintuple bypass surgery.

ANNABELLE SIKES

NEWS EDITOR

It was 2:30 a.m. May 23 when Kurt Gies woke up experiencing severe chest pains and discomfort in his right arm.

At around 4 a.m., Gies walked across the street from his Oakland home to see his neighbor, a former U.S. Navy nurse.

“I told him something didn’t feel right, and he looked at me but said everything was fine and I may have just overworked my shoulder — which I had surgery on in December — at work,” Gies said. “And with the sun being as hot as it was, I could have had some heat stroke. As a precaution, he told me to go home and take some aspirin. I did, and then I was coughing — I had heard if you’re having some sort of heart condition that coughing will help it — so I was doing that every once in a while.”

That day, Gies planned to pick up his wife, Lana, from the airport.

“I was debating on whether or not I should drive there, but I thought I felt OK,” he said. “After I picked her up, I planned on getting checked out. Once she was in the car, I asked her to drop me off at the emergency room, because I knew something was wrong. The pain had progressed to my neck and jaw areas, which I had read means something is happening with your heart.”

IN GOD’S HANDS

Gies’ father had a heart attack at 35 years old and a triple bypass surgery when he was 55 years old.

“Me and my brothers knew that there was something that could potentially happen if we don’t take

care of our health,” Gies said. “I have an EKG every year. I have my blood pressure checked all the time. I watch my cholesterol levels. The only indicator I had that there was something wrong was that I was eating very poorly, but my numbers were fine. My brothers usually have very high numbers and take some things to keep that under control, but historically, my stuff is all lower than normal. Even though my wife is a nutritionist, I didn’t listen to her, and I was just eating whatever I wanted to eat. Unfortunately, it was killing me.”

After some tests, doctors at AdventHealth Winter Garden discovered Gies had elevated levels of troponin, a protein released into the bloodstream when the heart is injured or damaged. An average person’s troponin level is less than 20; anything more than 40 signifies a heart attack.

Gies’ was at 130.

He was admitted to the hospital, where he had an echocardiogram followed by a heart catheterization in the morning at AdventHealth Apopka.

“They gave me some pain meds, because it was still sore,” he said. “It was nothing like what I ever imagined a heart attack to feel like. … The cardiologist at AdventHealth said based on what they saw that there was a 99% chance I would go, have some stints put in and I would be home by the afternoon. It didn’t sound like that big of a deal. … I was about 20 minutes into the two hour procedure when everything stopped and I was told I needed a bypass surgery and that we should get it done today.”

Gies was transported to AdventHealth Celebration May 24. Gies married his wife in 2016. The couple wanted to get married on St. Patrick’s Day weekend, and the date they picked was Friday, March 18 — Gies’ father’s birthday. As they were rolling him back in the ER, Gies said he was very aware that on May 24, 2006, his father died of a heart attack.

“I told myself I had borrowed his birthday, but I wasn’t taking his death day,” he said. “I had a spiritual moment. I really believe Jesus came

As the Observer’s annual guide to life and living in West Orange and Southwest Orange, Local Motion connects new and longtime residents with their communities, local businesses and resources.

Local Motion provides essential information about Winter Garden, Windermere, Horizon West, Ocoee, Dr. Phillips, Oakland and Gotha.

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

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

Suggestions for date nights and family weekend excursions for every budget

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

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One week later, Gies took a golf cart trip to the local farmers market, attended a barbecue for a friend and completed a one-mile walk on the West Orange Trail.

Last week, he led his last American Legion Post 62 executive committee meeting to end a six-year era and walked 2.2 miles home.

to me and wrapped his arms around me and told me nothing was going to happen to me that day. He told me I had way too much work to still do. So, I just trusted it. … It all happened so fast that I didn’t even have a chance to think about it. I went from a 99% chance of nothing to pretty much as bad as you can get.”

Winter Garden’s Mosaic Church Pastor Renaut van der Riet helped bring peace to Gies during this time.

“When I first heard that I had had a heart attack, I was kind of anxious, because I wasn’t sure what it meant or why it happened,” he said. “Renaut called me, because we were supposed to have a meeting that morning, and I missed it. … He calmed me down quite a bit. He told me not to stress about it, and he prayed for me. From that point forward to today, I’ve had almost no anxiety or worries. Everything has been peaceful. Even though everything happening was stressful, I recognized that this wasn’t my time.”

ATTITUDE IS EVERYTHING

Gies was up and walking within 10 hours of the surgery, and he was out of the ICU, where most patients following the surgery stay for about two to three days, within 20 hours.

Four days later, on May 28, Gies was headed home, days earlier than the typical patient.

He said he found at each step of the process the person God put in his path at that specific time played the exact role and function he needed.

“The hospitals were great,” Gies said. “The people and the staff were amazing. The minute I walked into the ER, I made a conscious decision I was going to honor and thank every person who served me for what they were doing. This is so routine for them, because they have to do it all the time, and I wanted to let them know that I was hearing, feeling and appreciating what they were doing so they could be better and stronger for the next person following me.”

“I’ve had more energy than I’ve ever had in my entire life,” he said.

CITIZEN OF THE YEAR

Gies is a well-known and beloved member of the West Orange County community, although he will never admit it.

He was selected by District 1 Commissioner Nicole Wilson as Citizen of the Year in 2023.

He is a 25-year veteran of the U.S. Navy and serves as the commander of American Legion Post 63 in Winter Garden.

After learning how many veterans are lost every day to suicide, he founded Challenge 22, a nonprofit dedicated to raising awareness and funding lifesaving mental health treatment.

He is now looking forward to taking Challenge 22 nationwide and making it a full-time gig.

Although doctors told Gies it will be about six to eight weeks before he can do anything, he believes his recovery will be closer to four weeks. He is focusing on having a healthier relationship with food and listening to his body throughout the recovery process.

He has several scheduled visits with doctors for follow-ups and will eventually attend cardiac rehab.

Gies said the outpouring of support from the community has been nonstop.

“I’ve learned three things out of this process,” he said. “My faith is a lot stronger than I thought it was, and because of that I can honestly say the only negative reaction was the one I initially had when I was feeling anxious. The second thing is when you honor and praise people for the work they do; it’s not only the right thing to do because they work hard and half of the people don’t praise them, but when they are recognized they respond to that. The third thing is no matter what your numbers are, if you’re eating poorly, it’s going to kill you.”

Courtesy photo

Oakland resident Kurt Gies underwent a quintuple bypass surgery in May. He was up and walking within 10 hours.

Visscher earns award for work on Lake Apopka

PAST RECIPIENTS

Friends of Lake Apopka has presented the sixth annual Jim Thomas Environmental Award to a recipient who “exemplifies the passion and commitment of FOLA founder Jim Thomas and who contributes to the continued restoration of Lake Apopka.”

Nathalie Visscher, a regional biologist with the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission, accepted the blue water dropletshaped glass award Tuesday, June 4, at a FOLA meeting held at the Oakland Nature Preserve.

“It took enormous courage for Nathalie to insist on large-scale treatment of hydrilla in the face of opposition from some of her colleagues and some recreational users,” said Joe Dunn, FOLA executive director. “Jim Thomas would have admired her principled stand.”

Visscher is thrilled to have been chosen for the award.

“It was such an honor to receive this award, even though it was unexpected,” she said. “I have always admired Jim Thomas’ lifelong dedication to the environment, so it meant a lot to me.”

Visscher has a master’s degree in biology from Université Côte D’Azur and has spent her entire career in invasive plant management. She is considered an expert in the field, FOLA officials said.

Prior to joining FWC as a regional biologist, Visscher worked for the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, also as a regional biologist.  She has been protecting Florida’s waterways from invasive aquatic vegetation for almost 25 years and has been helping Lake Apopka for the past 15 years.

“She has been courageous and, many times, outspoken about the dangerous environmental consequences of hydrilla, water hyacinth and water lettuce,” according to FOLA.

Visscher started raising the alarm about Lake Apopka’s hydrilla in 2019, but budget constraints hampered control efforts. As the problem worsened, she worked with her colleagues at the St. Johns River Water Management District to create an effective control plan that would

2019: Jim Peterson, St. Johns River Water Management District

2020: Betsy VanderLey, former Orange County District 1

commissioner

2021: Daniel Whitehouse, Friends of Lake Apopka, and Scott Bisping, Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission

2022: Dr. Erich Marzolf, SJRWMD

2023: Adam Lovejoy, SJRWMD

return hydrilla to pre-2018 levels.

In November, SJRWMD performed a large-scale hydrilla treatment.

“That treatment would have never been possible without Nathalie’s passion and substantial knowledge,” FOLA officials said. “Without Nathalie Visscher’s willingness to speak unpopular truths, 25 years and hundreds of millions of dollars of restoration efforts could have been undone by the hydrilla infestation in Lake Apopka. We genuinely appreciate all that Nathalie has contributed to the restoration of our lake and look forward to her continued involvement and guidance.”

Visscher said she is passionate about Lake Apopka because it has so much to offer to the stakeholders, fish and wildlife.

“It doesn’t deserve the reputation of a dead lake,” she said. “The native plant community is one of the most diverse on the Harris Chain. Raising awareness about and managing invasive plants is critical for effective restoration efforts.

“Lake Apopka is a unique system, which underwent many changes over the years,” Visscher said. “Being the headwater of the Harris Chain, it is very important to continue the ongoing habitat restoration to promote the establishment of native aquatic plants and increase the water quality.”

Visscher has been a proponent of the environment since she was a child growing up on the Island of Corsica in the Mediterranean Sea.

“I learned at a young age the importance of native habitats and their protection against invasive species,” she said. “My dad was my biggest mentor. I am proud to have had the opportunity to turn my passion into a career.”

Amy Quesinberry

Nathalie Visscher, second from left, was honored with the Jim Thomas Environmental Hero Award at the Tuesday, June 4, Friends of Lake Apopka meeting. Presenting the award are Joe Dunn, left, FOLA executive director; Jim Peterson, Ocklawaha River Basin coordinator for the St. Johns River Water Management District; and Steve Koontz, FOLA president.

BAPTIST

First Baptist Church

Pastor Tim Grosshans

125 E. Plant St, Winter Garden (407) 656-2352

Sundays: 8:30 AM Traditional 9:45 AM Bible Study 11 AM Contemporary Wednesdays: 6 PM Awana

EPISCOPAL

Church of the Messiah

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

METHODIST

First United Methodist www.fumcwg.org

Windermere leaders review mid-year report

Town Manager Robert Smith presented recently the Fiscal Year 2023-24 mid-year budget report.

ANNABELLE SIKES NEWS EDITOR

The Windermere Town Council hosted a virtual workshop Tuesday, May 28, to discuss the Fiscal Year 2023-24 mid-year budget report.

Town Manager Robert Smith reviewed both the town’s revenues and expenditures.

Overall, the total budgeted revenues for the town are $16,081,141, with the estimated revenues at $16,318,453.83. The total budgeted expenditures for the town are $16,018,141, with the estimated expenditures being $15,692,997.27.

being $599,566.90 and the estimated amount being $1,013,848.47, a difference of $8,993.61. In total, the town budgeted $320,000 in development services, with the actual amount being $219,838.38 and the estimated amount being $370,000, a difference of $50,000.

The biggest budgeted public works categories included $3,081,000, potable water design; $1,950,000, multimodal; $1,500,000, Windermere Road/Main Street roundabouts; and $1,391,295, American Recovery Act.

Overall, the town budgeted $10,785,681.26 for public works expenditures, with the actual amount being $138,452.60 and the estimated amount being $10,258,967.16, a difference of $526,714.10.

For parks and recreation, the town budgeted $68,500, with the actual amount being $23,358.16 and the estimated amount being $70,000, a difference of $1,500.

CHURCH DIRECTORY

STARKE LAKE BAPTIST

CHURCH

PO Box 520, 611 W Ave, Ocoee

Pastor Jeff Pritchard (407) 656-2351 www.starkelakebaptist.org

CHURCH OF GOD

OCOEE CHURCH OF GOD

Pastor Thomas Odom 1105 N. Lakewood Avenue, Ocoee 407-656-8011

EPISCOPAL

CHURCH OF THE MESSIAH

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

The budgeted difference is zero, and the estimated difference is $625,456.56, which would be transferred to reserves. The town currently has around $2.3 million in reserves to use for the next fiscal year.

“This gives you a look of where we are in the current budget year and what we’re looking at by the end of the fiscal year,” Smith said. “This also gives us somewhat of a road map for next fiscal year and hopefully, possibly, the next five years, depending on what projects we’re able to go ahead and fund.”

REVENUES REPORT

The biggest budgeted police categories included $1,015,904.45, salaries, and $800,000, fire service assessment.

For police, the town budgeted $2,629,793.50, with the actual amount being $1,286,176.59 and the estimated amount being $2,518,872.33, a difference of $110,921.17.

For code enforcement, the town budgeted $22,200, with the actual amount being $7,962.45 and the estimated amount being $15,169.08, a difference of $7,030.92.

Advertise your Services or Events on this page weekly. This page appears weekly in the West Orange Times & Observer and online at OrangeObserver.com.

Smith said the town uses conservative estimates by looking not only five years but also 10 years in the past.

The biggest budget categories included $3,391,806, property tax; $3,081,000, state appropriations for potable water; $1,500,000, state appropriations for roads; $1,391,295, CARES ACT — American Recovery Act; and $1,000,000, state appropriations for multimodal.

For boards and committees, the town budgeted $142,500, with the estimated amount being $228,750, a difference of $86,250.

To advertise in the Church Directory call 407-656-2121 or email AdvertiseNow@OrangeObserver.com

LOOKING AHEAD

Smith said the total amounts do not include the money the town owes Healthy West Orange for the failed pavilion project, which is still being negotiated.

Overall, the town budgeted $16,018,140.60 in revenues, with the actual amount being $5,286,169.43 and the estimated amount being $16,318,453.83, a difference of $300,313.23.

EXPENDITURES

Smith next reviewed the expenditures report, touching on categories including legislative, administration, finances and public works.

The biggest budgeted legislative categories included $200,000, Windermere Wine & Dine; $20,000, Centennial Celebration; and $15,000, Holiday Social.

In total, the town budgeted $261,445 in legislative, with the actual amount being $105,381.71 and the estimated amount being $275,357.64, a difference of $13,912.64.

“With conservative estimates of revenues and controlling expenditures, the town should be in a good financial position for Fiscal Year 2024-25, transferring a balance of $625,456.56 into reserves,” he said. “Staff continues to submit for reimbursements related to grants awarded. Those revenues are not reflected. The balance of the ARPA funds are not accounted for, since they are reimbursable and rolled over to Fiscal Year 2024-25. The balance of $760,000 in SRS funds also will be rolled over, as well as the balance of state appropriations.”

The biggest budgeted administration categories included salaries, $258,815, and legal fees, $100,000.

Overall, the town budgeted $631,822.25 in administration, with the actual amount being $453,337.84 and the estimated amount being $807,446.37, a difference of $175,624.12.

Smith said the draft budget for the next fiscal year already is in the works. Projects that should be fully funded next year without any requests for mileage increase include the Butler and Bessie basin stormwater and potable water systems, the Old Dirt Road Main paving and potable water system, Phase 1 of Ward Trail, pedestrian bridge construction, and the Windermere Road and Main Street intersection improvements.

Over the last three years, the town has received or been committed $14,602,400 in grants or appropriations.

In total, the town budgeted $133,356.80 for the clerk, with the actual amount being $520,528.17 and the estimated amount being $942,032.59, a difference of $1,229.42.

Overall, the town budgeted $1,022,842.08 in finance, with the actual amount

Foodie Call

Ahome in the Golden Oak community in Southwest Orange topped all West Orange-area residential real-estate transactions from May 27 to June 2.

The home at 9744 Vista Falls Drive, Golden Oak, sold May 31, for $7,350,000. Built in 2015, it has five bedrooms, four baths, four half-baths and 5,228 square feet. The sellers were represented by Bree Tucker and Ken Pozek, The Pozek Group, Keller Williams Elite Partners.

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

DR. PHILLIPS

EMERALD FOREST

The home at 10207 Emerald Woods Ave., Orlando, sold May 30, for $803,000. Built in 1998, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 3,133 square feet. Days on market: Nine.

LAKE CANE SHORES

The home at 6511 Vineland Road, Orlando, sold May 28, for $800,000. Built in 1979, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,000 square feet. Days on market: Three.

PALM LAKE

The home at 8703 Crestgate Circle, Orlando, sold May 28, for $1,250,000. Built in 1999, it has six bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths and 4,695 square feet. Days on market: 101.

PARKSIDE

The home at 7933 Chilton Drive, Orlando, sold May 28, for $950,000. Built in 2014, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,754 square feet. Days on market: 18.

PARKVIEW RESERVE

The home at 9356 Fenton St., Orlando, sold May 30, for $908,455. Built in 2024, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 2,014 square feet of living area.

ST. IVES

The home at 7644 Apple Tree Circle, Orlando, sold May 28, for $825,000. Built in 1989, it has four bedrooms, four baths and 2,586 square feet of living area. Days on market: Four.

The home at 7713 Hidden Ivy Court, Orlando, sold May 31, for $700,000. Built in 1990, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,818 square feet. Days on market: 33.

TOREY PINES

The home at 5215 Hillview Lane, Orlando, sold May 31, for $1,550,000. Built in 1989, it has five bedrooms, six baths and 3,832 square feet. Days on market: 31.

VIZCAYA TOWNHOMES

The townhouse at 8224 Tivoli Drive, Orlando, sold May 28, for $702,500. Built in 2002, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,801 square feet. Days on market: 32.

HORIZON WEST

HARVEST AT OVATION

The home at 15177 Summer Harvest St., Winter Garden, sold May 31, for $555,000. Built in 2023, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 1,992 square feet. Days on market: 239.

HIGHLAND RIDGE

The home at 14082 Frasier St., Winter Garden, sold May 30, for $579,555. Built in 2024, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,088 square feet. Days on market: 27.

INDEPENDENCE/ SIGNATURE LAKES

The home at 6609 Point Hancock Drive sold May 28, for $2,150,000. Built in 2019, it has four bedrooms, four baths and 3,445 square feet. Days on market: 12.

The home at 14477 Whittridge Drive sold May 29, for $751,000. Built in 2005, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,224 square feet. Days on market: Two.

ISLES OF LAKE HANCOCK

The home at 14511 Isleview Drive, Winter Garden, sold May 30, for $2,250,000. Built in 2001, it has five bedrooms, four baths and 3,924 square feet. Days on market: 23.

LAKES OF WINDERMERE

The home at 12645 Haddon Drive, Windermere, sold May 30, for $645,000. Built in 2003, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,594 square feet. Days on market: Seven.

LAKESHORE PRESERVE

The home at 15775 Shorebird Lane, Winter Garden, sold May 30, for $1,325,000. Built in 2017, it has five bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths and 4,019 square feet. Days on market: Seven.

The home at 15749 Cutter Sail Place sold May 29, for $710,000. Built in 2019, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 2,285 square feet. Days on market: 84.

LAKESIDE AT HAMLIN

The home at 15050 Lake Bessie Loop, Winter Garden, sold May 30, for $758,000. Built in 2022, it has four bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 2,700 square feet. Days on market: 261.

MABEL BRIDGE

The home at 11454 Chateaubriand Ave., Orlando, sold May 31, for $925,000. Built in 2014, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 3,725 square feet. Days on market: Two.

NORTHLAKE AT OVATION

The home at 177249 Melogold Way, Winter Garden, sold May 29, for $912,208. Built in 2024, it has five bedrooms, four-and-onehalf baths and 3,696 square feet.

ORCHARD HILLS

The home at 5536 Myrtle Pine Lane, Winter Garden, sold May 30, for $775,000. Built in 2017, it has five bedrooms, three-andone-half baths and 3,948 square feet. Days on market: 20.

WATERLEIGH

The home at 16012 Scarpetta St., Winter Garden, sold May 28, for $739,391. Built in 2023, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,924 square feet. Days on market: 79.

WEST LAKE HANCOCK ESTATES

The home at 7364 John Hancock Drive, Winter Garden, sold May 31, for $2,550,000. Built in 2021, it has seven bedrooms, six baths and 5,218 square feet. Days on market: 96.

The home at 14204 Colonial Pointe Drive, Winter Garden, sold May 31, for $1,150,000. Built in 2019, it has four bedrooms, threeand-one-half baths and 3,985 square feet. Days on market: 17.

WINCEY GROVES

The home at 5416 Golden Apple Drive, Winter Garden, sold May 31, for $885,000. Built in 2021, it has five bedrooms, three-andone-half baths and 3,104 square feet. Days on market: 56.

OCOEE

ORCHARD PARK

The home at 1837 Honeydew Court, Ocoee, sold May 31, for $650,000. Built in 2002, it has five bedrooms, three baths and 3,278 square feet. Days on market: Four.

WESTYN BAY

The home at 2457 Orsota Circle, Ocoee, sold May 30, for $610,000. Built in 2004, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,513 square feet. Days on market: Four.

WYNWOOD

The home at 2413 Greenwood Oak Drive, Ocoee, sold May 30, for $632,990. Built in 2024, it has four bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 2,787 square feet. Days on market: 32.

SOUTHWEST ORANGE

ROYAL CYPRESS RESERVE

The home at 10335 Royal Island Court, Orlando, sold May 31, for $1,150,000. Built in 2022, it has five bedrooms, four-and-onehalf baths and 3,834 square feet. Days on market: 20.

WINDERMERE BUTLER BAY

The home at 3130 Butler Bay Drive N., Windermere, sold May 29, for $1,749,000. Built in 1985, it has four bedrooms, four baths, two half-baths and 4,490 square feet of living area. Days on market: Six.

The home at 12807 Butler Bay Court, Windermere, sold May 29, for $1,200,000. Built in 1995, it has five bedrooms, three-andone-half baths and 3,550 square feet of living area. Days on market: Two.

RESERVE AT BELMERE

The home at 1327 Glenwick Drive, Windermere, sold May 30, for $750,000. Built in 2002, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,184 square feet. Days on market: Five.

RESERVE AT LAKE BUTLER SOUND

The home at 11051 Hawkshead Court, Windermere, sold May 30, for $1,800,000. Built in 2003, it has five bedrooms, four baths, two half-baths and 3,728 square feet of living area. Days on market: Three.

WHITNEY ISLES AT BELMERE

The home at 1615 Whitney Isles Drive, Windermere, sold May 30, for $775,000. Built in 2006, it has four bedrooms, four baths and 2,805 square feet. Days on market: 23.

WINTER GARDEN

COVINGTON CHASE

The home at 333 Millwood Place, Winter Garden, sold May 28, for $589,000. Built in 2015, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,190 square feet of living area.

CYPRESS RESERVE

The home at 13773 Jomatt Loop, Winter Garden, sold May 30, for $685,000. Built in 2019, it has four bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 2,671 square feet. Days on market: Two.

The home at 13942 Jomatt Loop, Winter Garden, sold May 31, for $650,000. Built in 2015, it has four bedrooms, four baths and 2,824 square feet of living area. Days on market: 136.

GROVEHURST

The home at 12863 Daughtery Drive, Winter Garden, sold May 28, for $520,000. Built in 2005, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 1,956 square feet. Days on market: Nine.

LAKE AVALON GROVES

The home at 17224 Old Country Lane, Winter Garden, sold May 31, for $800,000. Built in 1980, it has five bedrooms, two baths and 2,216 square feet. Days on market: Seven.

LAKEVIEW PRESERVE

The home at 3241 Sailing Pier Ave., Winter Garden, sold May 31, for $545,000. Built in 2020, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,070 square feet. Days on market: 104.

OAKLAND PARK

The home at 1248 Civitas Way, Winter Garden, sold May 28, for $850,000. Built in 2022, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 2,257 square feet of living area. Days on market: Seven.

The home at 926 Trowman Alley, Winter Garden, sold May 30, for $680,000. Built in 2022, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 1,925 square feet. Days on market: 152.

RESERVE AT CARRIAGE POINTE

The home at 15375 Sandfield Loop, Winter Garden, sold May 28, for $685,000. Built in 2014, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,782 square feet of living area. Days on market: Nine.

ROPER RESERVE

The home at 462 Wrangler Road, Winter Garden, sold May 30, for $720,000. Built in 2018, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 2,772 square feet of living area. Days on market: Five.

SANCTUARY AT TWIN WATERS

The home at 16774 Sanctuary Drive, Winter Garden, sold May 31, for $1,200,000. Built in 2020, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 3,006 square feet of living area. Days on market: Five.

STANTON ESTATES

The home at 131 Stanton Estates Circle, Winter Garden, sold May 29, for $1,040,000. Built in 2019, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 2,909 square feet. Days on market: 66.

STONEYBROOK WEST

The home at 1935 Black Lake Blvd., Winter Garden, sold May 30, for $1,070,000. Built in 2005, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 3,811 square feet. Days on market: 37.

The home at 13710 Fox Glove St., Winter Garden, sold May 29, for $760,000. Built in 2004, it has five bedrooms, three baths and 4,231 square feet. Days on market: 193.

The home at 2327 Black Lake Blvd., Winter Garden, sold May 28, for $665,000. Built in 2006, it has five bedrooms, three baths and 2,798 square feet. Days on market: 166.

The home at 1910 Black Lake Blvd., Winter Garden, sold May 30, for $620,000. Built in 2004, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,479 square feet. Days on market: 46.

WATERSIDE AT JOHNS LAKE

The home at 16706 Rusty Anchor Road,

from

The sellers were represented by Angela Durruthy, Keene’s Pointe Realty.

Courtesy photo

The home at 9744 Vista Falls Drive, Golden Oak, sold May 31, for $7,350,000. This home, built in 2015 by Derrick Builders, is in the Silverbrook neighborhood at the exclusive Golden Oak community at the Walt Disney World Resort. The sellers were represented by Bree Tucker and Ken Pozek, The Pozek Group, Keller Williams Elite Partners.

DeVore Design

The home at 7364 John Hancock Drive, Winter Garden, sold May 31, for $2,550,000. It was the largest transaction in Horizon West from May 27 to June 2. The sellers were represented by Kaleigh Crow, LoKation Real Estate.

SPORTS

HIGH 5

1Last week, the Orange Observer announced the inception of a new annual athletic award series, the 2024 Orange Observer Sports Awards, with 10 total honors — Sportsperson of the Year, Male & Female Athletes of the Year, Male Sport & Female Sport Coaches of the Year, Assistant Coach of the Year, Teammate of the Year, Male & Female Teams of the Year and the Ad Astra Award — to recognize West Orange and Southwest Orange County’s most deserving athletes, coaches and teams. We are accepting nominations from the public, school administrators, coaches and anyone who knows of a team, coach or player who deserves recognition. To submit a nomination for the 2024 Orange Observer Sports Awards, please visit: bit.ly/3x04mkk.

2

In anticipation of its new on-campus stadium opening this fall, Windermere High Athletics officially has moved out of Deputy Scott Pine Community Park. Windermere is set to debut its new stadium at its home-opening football game Sept. 13.

3

Dr. Phillips football’s QB Stanley Anderson-Lofton announced his commitment to Middle Tennessee State University. Anderson-Lofton

— a 6-foot-2, 205-pound rising senior who gained a total of 2,400 yards and scored 26 total touchdowns in his second season starting — chose the Blue Raiders over Florida A&M, Lenoir-Rhyne University, Delaware State University and Lehigh University. Ultimately, what separated the Blue Raiders for AndersonLofton was the relationship he built with the coaching staff.

“It was really my connection with the offensive coordinator and my conversations with the head coach,” Anderson-Lofton said. “He just said a lot of the right things and made me feel like I was really important to what they were building.”

4

OARS had four boats finish in the top 10 at USRowing’s 2024 Youth National Championships in Sarasota on June 6 to 9; with three qualifying for the A final heat and finishing in the top seven nationally.

Its Men’s U17 4x boat, comprising Tyler Huurneman, Taylor Maehl, Danilo Del Vecchio and Jacob Arcella, was the top finisher of the nine OARS boats in fifth with a time of 6:46.76. The Men’s Youth 4+ boat finished sixth with a time of 6:47.61 while the only OARS girls team to qualify for an A final, the Women’s U17 8+ boat, finished seventh with a time of 7:23.01. The Women’s U16 8+ boat qualified for the B final heat and finished 2nd — or 10th overall in the nation — with a time of 7:28.24.

5Winter Garden Squeeze (4-4) currently sits in fourth of the Florida Collegiate Summer League standings — as of press time on Tuesday, June 11. The Squeeze will start a three-game series against the Sanford River Rats (5-4) with a home game at 7 p.m. Thursday, June 13

Total domination

In the 8- to 9-year-old age group, the All-Star collection of Winter Garden Little Leaguers went undefeated to claim the Tournament of Champions crown over Dr. Phillips Little League.

Next Level Elite football camp returns to Winter Garden

SAM ALBUQUERQUE SPORTS EDITOR

The idea of bringing together

a collection of a league’s best players into one cohesive team in a matter of weeks to play for the top honor those players can compete for seems like a daunting task.

Now consider the fact that the players that make up this All-Star group are 8- and 9-years-olds, and all of a sudden, “daunting” seems a bit of an understatement.

However, Anthony Luisi — manager of Winter Garden Little League’s Tournament of Champions team — and his assistant coaches Michael Medina and Terence Curran tackled the test with amazing results.

QUICK CHEMISTRY

The team’s ability to develop chemistry was one of the main reasons it captured the District 14 TOC championship.

“The team was made up of kids from different regular-season teams within Winter Garden Little League, so they weren’t playing together all season,” Luisi said. “When we got the group together, you could just feel immediately when they came in that we were going to be a cohesive team. They just all became friends really quickly, and they all trusted each other. It was honestly really cool to see from my perspective. But I think that the chemistry they built was a lot of the reason for their success. … They were all positive; they listened. Through all of our practices and games, they were just a really great group of kids.”

Parents — and their commitment to the process — also were critical to the team’s success.

“They were practicing for what

SAM ALBUQUERQUE SPORTS EDITOR

they

cost money. For us, this camp is about giving back to the area we grew up in; the camp is on the same field that I played on as a kid. We love seeing all the kids come out and have a great time while knowing the parents don’t have to worry about coming up with the money to pay any fees.”

Beyond creating a fun and cost-free event for the families of West Orange County — more than 100 campers participated last year — Griffin and his fellow coaches strive to provide campers with quality coaching and

drills that will help campers learn and develop their skills as football players.

“Campers (who) come out can look forward to putting in good quality work and receiving coaching from some great coaches that have played at every level,” Griffin said. “Everyone should come prepared to compete and learn from (one another). At the end of the day, our goal is to help these kids get better, and that comes from iron sharpening iron.”

A West Orange High alum, Winter Garden Squeeze pitcher Nolan Maroth is back for a second season on the mound in the Florida League. 2B.

Creative Chasing Photography

Photos by Sam Albuquerque

Players and coaches from the Winter Garden Little League 8-9-year-old District 14 Tournament of Champions winning team had some fun during Little League night at a Winter Garden Squeeze game.

Members of Winter Garden Little League’s Tournament of Champions team; Sebastian Medina, left, Landon Flaugher and Jackson Fusaro highfived Winter Garden Squeeze infielder Cole Steinmetz.

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Nolan Maroth

Nolan Maroth, a West Orange High alum and current studentathlete at the University of Tennessee, is a right-handed pitcher in his second season participating in the Florida Collegiate Summer League — first playing for his hometown Squeeze. The 6-foot-3 college junior has made two appearances this season, both lasting four innings. In his opening appearance against the Orlando Snappers, the local kid served up six strikeouts and allowed just one run.

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

I feel proud and honored. I get to represent a lot of people — from old high school teammates at West Orange to my teammates back in Tennessee and, of course, my current teammates for the summer. It just reflects the work my team and I put in day in and day out trying to better ourselves.

What do you enjoy the most about baseball?

I enjoy competing the most. Every pitch is a battle, and in the end, I want to come off the mound feeling like I won the war.

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned from baseball?

Learning how to play as a team not only on the field but also off of it, and staying within myself to continue to get better every day.

How have you enjoyed coming home and playing for the Winter Garden Squeeze?

It’s been awesome. Our team has meshed quickly, and we’ve had a super fun atmosphere so far this summer. Also, being home with my family and seeing them after being out of state for months — it’s special.

What is your favorite high school baseball memory?

My best high school memory would be throwing back-to-back complete games against Montverde Academy and East Ridge

THE BASICS Age: 20 Sport: Baseball Alma mater: West Orange High College: University of Tennessee Team: Winter Garden Squeeze

What is your favorite subject in school?

Math, just because I am a huge numbers guy and enjoy implementing what I learn into baseball, life and whenever it comes up. I also think it’s the most applicable subject to real life.

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

Some kind of weapon so I could defend myself, a water filtration device and a dog to keep me company.

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

I would go back to ancient Greece and Rome. I think life back then was way ahead of its time, and I could learn a lot from how they lived their lives.

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

Don’t stress about the final destination and be more invested in the process, because every moment, good or bad, is something to learn from and cherish.

If you could ask your future self a question, what would it be?

I would ask what my favorite memory is from this point in my life, because hopefully right now, I am living life to where I can look back and be proud.

Who is your favorite superhero?

Batman, because his movies are the best and his character is something everybody can get behind.

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

Super speed, because I could throw a fastball harder than anyone else in the world.

If you could travel to three places in the world, where would you go Iceland or Sweden, because I’ve always wanted to visit a Northern European country and see the views, and Alaska, because it would be similar to the other two, but I wouldn’t need a

If you could be an animal for a day, which one would you be? Some kind of eagle or falcon — for the ability to fly, as well as being a predator.

What is your most controversial food take?

Ketchup only belongs on “normal” things (such as) burgers, hot dogs or fries. Not other foods (such as) mac and cheese, vegetables or any-

Does pineapple belong on I am not a fan, but it’s not a

SAM ALBUQUERQUE

TFA football wins UCF’s

7-on-7

championship

The Royals’ new-look football team competed at the Knights’ 7-on-7 tourney, held Thursday, June 6, at FBC Mortgage Stadium.

SAM ALBUQUERQUE SPORTS EDITOR

Football, like many other areas in life, is all about relationships. Whether they are on the field, in the locker room, in the press box or in the coaches’ offices, it is often one of the most vital considerations of any pigskin matter.

For The First Academy football team, you could say the relationships second-year coach and Athletic Director Jeff Conaway has built over his career is why the Royals’ have been able to overhaul its program and build what seems to be one of the scariest in Orlando.

It also stands to reason that Conaway’s relationship with UCF football coach Gus Malzahn — from Conaway’s time as an assistant for Malzahn in their Arkansas high school football days — is probably why TFA made sure to be at the Knights’ first of three 7-on-7 summer camps Thursday, June 6, at FBC Mortgage Stadium.

“Any chance we get to go see Gus and to go to UCF, we would like to take it,” Conaway said. “It’s an incredible program with great coaches, and so we as coaches always feel like we’re sharpened when we get to go there. But also, I feel like our players are sharpened, as well. I think the players are highly motivated when they step foot on a college campus and with this one right down the street, it was a really good opportunity to be there. Plus, it always feels good for us to go there because of the relationship we have with Coach Malzahn and his staff.”

LET YOUR GAME DO THE TALKING

That’s the funny thing about sports, though: The relationships that opened the doors don’t automatically translate to wins. Your game has to take over. And at the UCF 7-on-7 camp, the newlook Royals did just that.

“We’re building a culture of, any time there’s competition, we want to win it,” Conaway said. “On offense, we threw and caught the ball well. We played two quarterbacks (Salomon Georges) Jr. and Will (Jackson), who both got some real quality reps, rotating every two drives. … To me, our receivers — Evan (James), Demetrice (McCray), Isaac (Obrokta) and all those guys — caught the ball really well, but it all started with our route running. Creating that separation sometimes gets overlooked. … Running a good route allows you to create separation and catch the football. This group of pass-catchers did that well.”

Georges Jr. credits the team’s win to its ability to have each others backs and make plays when they were needed.

“I felt like both sides of the ball were encouraging each other,” he said. “If somebody made a bad play, we made sure to pick that guy up on the next play, so they could keep going out there and making plays. That’s what happened, and we were all able to build off of each other to ultimately win the tournament.”

TO THE VICTORS GO THE SPOILS

The quality showing, on both sides of the ball, for the Royals was impressive — especially considering the tournament was filled with quality teams such as Central Florida’s Timber Creek High, Winter Park High and South Lake High. With the high level of competition and incredible performances, both collectively and as individuals, the Royals didn’t just take home the 7-on-7 championship helmet or the memory of playing on the UCF home field.

Three members of the winning team took home something much more valuable: scholarship offers to UCF.

TFA’s Obrokta, Danny Odem and Kamauri Whitfield all shared via their X accounts that following conversations with the UCF coaching staff and their great individual showings during the 7-on-7 camp the Knights offered each of them a scholarship.

Free camp gives players access to elite coaching

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1B

Coaches who will be participating alongside Griffin include Roman Tatum, a former West Orange standout and college football defensive back at the University of Delaware and Southern Illinois University; Garrett John-

son, an All-State wide receiver at West Orange, four-year player at Kentucky and former Chicago Bear; and Marcus Isom, a threeyear starter at defensive tackle for West Orange and Wofford College player.

“Along with the core coaches, we always invite some guys we’ve

‘ROYAL ROAD SHOW’

Moments like this are exactly what Conaway and his staff are trying to accomplish during the months leading up to fall camp. They want to put their players in a position to compete, grow as a team and build chemistry while also serving the college football ambitions of the individual players by showcasing their talents in front of decisionmakers.

“It means a lot to me to be able to showcase my talents at these camps, because normally, kids like me don’t get to go to these events or get this type of exposure to colleges,” Georges Jr. said. “So this has just been a great experience for me to come out to these camps and 7-on-7s and ball out.”

To continue down this path in the summer, Conaway and his team have embarked on what they’ve dubbed the “Royal Road Show,” which is an eight-day, nine-camp bus tour of different colleges in the Southeast — including stops at Duke, North Carolina and NC State, and another 7-on-7 camp at Liberty University.

“Our goal for this summer program is three-fold,” Conaway said. “The first is to unite as a team. One of our core values is brotherhood, and we know that to compete at the highest level in a team sport, we’re going to have to build trust and brotherhood with (one another). So uniting as a staff and as a team is first and foremost. The second is we want to get better at football. We want to get better at what we’re going to be asked to do on Friday nights. … So we’re going to take all the opportunities to improve our skillset and get the experience needed. That way we can prepare properly to play properly. Then the third piece is to allow our studentathletes — those who want to pursue playing at the college level and those who do not — the opportunity to experience college campuses, and really just give them some resources to help them with their post-high school decisions. … I think the way that we’ve set up our summer, we’re giving our guys what they need to do all three of those things.”

coached in the past (who) are now in college, some (who) are heading off to college,” Griffin said. “The camp gives those guys some experience of what it’s like to be a coach and to interact with kids who look up to them and want to be in their position.”

West Orange rising senior and Notre Dame commit Ivan Taylor, former West Orange receiver and current UCF player Jordyn Bridgewater and former West Orange defensive back and current Florida Gator Jordan Castell are some of the recent standout players who have volunteered at the camp.

Courtesy

The First Academy football team celebrated its win at the UCF 7-on-7 tournament with Knights coach Gus Malzahn at FBC Mortgage Stadium.

WGLL wins tournament of champions

felt like every single day for two straight weeks,” said Rebecca Fusaro, a mom of one of the Winter Garden TOC players. “We could see these kids were putting in the work. … It was really exciting to watch the team come together over such a short time, because individually they’re all really good little ballplayers, but together they just gelled into something great.”

Beyond the commitment from the players, Fusaro points to the All-Star coaching staff’s influence as another aspect of the team’s success.

“A lot of the success had to do with our coaches,” Fusaro said. “They did an amazing job. All three really brought something different to the team, and that was cool to watch. One was more level-headed and really good with strategy, the other was really good with teaching defense and really just teaching the game of baseball, and the other one

was more of a motivator who could get the kids’ energy up when they needed to.”

Not only was this group great for Luisi and his coaches to deal with, but also their talent on the field was able to shine because of the quick chemistry they developed.

The result: Winter Garden LL’s 8-9 All-Star team ran the table in the Tournament of Champions, winning all five of its games over District 14’s other All-Star teams from Dr. Phillips Little League, Windermere Little League and South Lake Little League.

“It was really cool to win, because it’s a one-out-of-five chance that we win the entire thing,” WGLL AllStar Jackson Fusaro said. “I had a lot of confidence in our team, because from the start, we really clicked, and we could see that we were really good.”

ROAD TO VICTORY

Although the group of All-Stars

came together quickly leading up to the tournament, they had to navigate a shaky start.

“Our first game was probably our scariest,” Luisi said. “It felt like everyone was a little nervous and didn’t know what to expect. But our pitching really got us through that one.”

On Day Two, Winter Garden have to deal with a doubleheader, with the hosts as the opponent in the first game.

“The first game of the two was against Dr. Phillips, who are kind of like the big boys; they’re playing at home on their new fields,” Luisi said. “But we ended up beating them, and that was just a huge win for the boys. Their baseball IQ really showed, because that game was a battle. It really gave them confidence and kind of propelled them the rest of the way.”

After winning the next two games, Winter Garden’s All-Star team again faced DP — this time it was for the

championship. Led by its defense, and contributions from throughout the batting order, Winter Garden Little League topped Dr. Phillips in the final, 7-3.

“It was just great showing all around for us,” Luisi said. “We kept saying that our defense was unmatched through the whole tournament. … It was really such a team effort, and it felt like every single player made a significant contribution to our run and that was amazing to see.”

TIME TO CELEBRATE

“It was really cool,” Jackson said of the championship win. “I just remember everybody running onto the field, and we took a victory lap with that banner, that was just really cool.”

From the dugout, Luisi knew it was in the hands of his players and until the final out was made, he and his staff felt the nerves.

“We were nervous as coaches

Hawks soar at 2024 graduation

because it’s the players who are the ones out there executing,” Luisi said. “But our kids went out there and executed, and we couldn’t be prouder of what they accomplished.”

Although this win ends the team’s season, Luisi and his staff know that this win isn’t the end for these kids’ love of the game of baseball. “I feel like this experience is just going to help set them up for success going forward,” Luisi said. “As they get older, this experience is going to be with them forever, and they can hopefully carry it on to the next levels when they’re 10, 11, 12 and so on. They just played so well and they were able to handle the pressure — and like it was a lot of pressure. So hopefully, that just kind of prepared them for more situations like that throughout their baseball careers. But ultimately, we just want them to love baseball and at the very least these moments are going to help them grow in that. And that’s really the goal of all of this.”

Horizon High School celebrated its Class of 2024 with a spirited commencement ceremony at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 29, at Addition Financial Arena at the University of Central Florida. This year’s class included valedictorian Jonathan Slattery and salutatorian Elijah

Baucom.

PHOTOS BY THOMAS LIGHTBODY | TK PHOTOGRAPHY

AWWW DP! Panthers

Friends gathered for photos prior to the graduation ceremony.

Students were all smiles before they walked the stage to receive their diplomas.

Dr. Phillips Panthers were excited to participate in their graduation ceremony.

Dr. Phillips High students celebrated their graduation.

Classmates and friends awaited the start of the graduation ceremony.

Right: Students enjoyed last-minute hugs before walking into the arena.

Ocoee High School held its Class of 2024 commencement ceremony Thursday, May 30, at Addition Financial Arena on the campus of the University of Central Florida. Students, their families and loved ones, and the Knights faculty and staff had the chance to say their collective goodbyes to the graduating seniors. Along with the pomp and circumstance of students crossing the graduation stage and being congratulated by Principal Lisa Karcinski, the graduation ceremony included speeches from valedictorian Kishen Sikhu and salutatorian Huy Nguyen.

ALBUQEURQUE

Ocoee High football coach Buck Gurley went around the holding area taking selfies with graduating students.

Students took a moment to make a silly face and take one last look at themselves through the phone camera of an Ocoee High faculty member.

Above: Members of the Ocoee High National Honor Society snapped last-minute photos before the graduation ceremony began.

Right: Ocoee High graduating seniors waited for their moment to cross the stage during their commencement ceremony.

It was all smiles for the Ocoee graduating class as students headed off to the arena for the start of the commencement ceremony.

Students take over Observer School Zone

The Summer School Zone section will feature articles written by students from the West Orange and Southwest Orange areas.

The hot weather is here, and with it comes our annual feature, Summer School Zone, where local students take over our Observer School Zone section and write about topics of importance and interest to them and their peers.

Four writers are joining our reporting team this year — Avery Bangsund, James Governali-Anselm, Lily Parker and Ava Petroski.

AMY QUESINBERRY

AVERY BANGSUND

Avery Bangsund, 17, will begin her senior year at Foundation Academy, where she enjoys the English and math classes. She stays busy at school, participating in Student Leadership Institute, Daughters Growing in Grace Bible study, Lions Den, AV Club, Spanish Club, Culinary Club, Environmental Club, Christians in Service, Ceramics Club and Literature Club.

She also has been on the Foundation Academy Dominican Republic mission trip team for the past two years.

Bangsund’s hobbies are soccer, running, writing, swimming, going to the beach, hanging out with friends and traveling. On her bucket list is to go to college and play soccer, majoring in communications with a concentration in broadcast journalism.

She is interested in writing about sports and community events.

“I would like to write for the West Orange Times & Observer because I love writing, and this paper has always been a big part of what’s going on at Foundation Academy and our community,” Bangsund said. “I am excited to be on the other side and a part of something that is important to Winter Garden.”

JAMES GOVERNALI-ANSELM

James Governali-Anselm, 18, graduated from Horizon High School May 29 and plans to attend Valencia College in the fall to obtain his associate’s degree and then move to Tallahassee to get his bachelor’s degree from Florida State University.

At Horizon, English was Governali-Anselm’s favorite core subject, while broadcasting was his favorite elective.

“High school acted as an opportunity to experiment and broaden my horizons,” Governali-Anselm said. “I felt plugged into the heartbeat of the school through the Hawk News Broadcast Team. I worked as an executive producer for almost three years there, writing daily shows and helping to get stories off the ground. I have been involved with the theater program at Horizon, where I acted onstage

LILY PARKER

Lily Parker, 14, is joining the Summer School Zone writing team for another year. She will be a sophomore at Windermere Preparatory School, where her favorite subject is English. She participates in sideline and competitive cheer and in the National Honor Society for Dance Arts,

and assisted on the technical side.”

While at Horizon, he participated in FFA, National Honor Society, Student Government Association, International Thespian Society and Fellowship of Christian Athletes. He also led a community for high school filmmakers called the Filmmaker’s Guild, and on Wednesdays he operates cameras and audio for live online services at Mosaic Church.

“I absolutely love writing and videography,” Governali-Anselm said. “Filmmaking, broadcasting, as well as making news stories, merged both of these passions and invigorated my interest. So, writing articles for this team feels like an amazing opportunity to keep this habit going professionally.”

Other hobbies include creative writing and videography.

“Being truly passionate about writing, crafting stories and making a difference through them is where I feel the most like myself,” he said. “Writing for a newspaper is an outlet that I haven’t explored yet, and the unknown can be exciting. I would love to join a community of hard-workers who are just as excited about writing as I am.”

Governali-Anselm’s dream job is to work in the film and TV industry as a writer-director.

and she is an event liaison for the Student Government Association.

Parker’s hobbies are reading, writing and paddle-boarding. Her bucket list includes traveling to Greece and visiting every continent.

She wants to write about dance and the Sea School Paddleboard Camp for the newspaper this summer.

“I have been writing for the Orange Observer for the past four years, and I am always looking forward to writing another article during summer,” Parker said.

After college, Parker wants to pursue a career in either dermatology or journalism.

AVA PETROSKI

Ava Petroski, 14, will be entering her freshman year at Olympia High School. Her favorite subjects are English and science, and she loves reading and drawing.

“Theater and singing are some of my favorite activities,” she said. “Writing is one of my most beloved things to do.”

She has performed in Junior Thespians for two years, as well as participated in school musicals, community theaters, Pride Club and many summers of Sea World Camp.

Petroski loves Marvel, so her bucket list includes going to Avengers Land in California because the whole idea of an Avengers-themed part of a park sounds amazing, she said.

This summer, she hopes to write about local, underrated businesses and activities.

“Learning about different people’s experiences and stories is the heart of an article,” Petroski said. “And a marine science article for younger readers could be really cool! We live in Florida, so there are lots of environmental occurrences to write about. I want to immerse myself in all forms of writing. I love storytelling and playwriting, so when I got the opportunity to become a journalist, I decided to take the chance. I think my first experience in journalism is going to be hard, but fun and rewarding!” Petroski wants to write, act and become a marine biologist. She hopes also to work in theater, whether it’s singing, acting, writing or costume design.

Horizon High music camp hits all the right notes

80

Horizon High School is hosting its third annual two-week Summer Music Camp.

This year, more than 200 local students grades first through eighth are participating. The camp also includes 80 high school volunteer students and 12 staff members. The event is divided into three groups: elementary music camp, intermediate/advanced band camp and color guard cadet camp. The camp, run by band director Charlene Cannon, is taking place from June 3-6 and June 10-13 at the school.

ANNABELLE SIKES

MARY M. CASTEEL

DIED MAY 18, 2024.

Mary M. Casteel, 89, passed away on May 18, 2024, at Regents Park of Winter Park. Mary was born in Winter Garden, Florida, one of five children to Roy and Dorothy Casteel. She grew up in Winter Garden and graduated from Lakeview High School. Mary left home after graduation to begin a career as an airline flight attendant and was also a clothing model for several years.

She settled in Los Angeles, California, changing her career to retail banking. Mary eventually made her way back home to Central Florida, continuing her career in banking. Mary was a born-again Christian and attended Church in the Son. She loved her family and was preceded in death by her parents, Roy and Dorothy Casteel, and her brothers, Fred Casteel and Paul Casteel. She is survived by her sister, Betty Suazo, and brother, Donald Casteel. As an expression of sympathy, memorial contributions may be sent to Vitas Healthcare.

Donald Robert Boardman, 90, died Sunday, June 9, 2024. Woodlawn Funeral Home & Memorial Park, Gotha. Freddie “Bud” Shepherd, 88, died Sunday, June 9, 2024. Winter Oak Funeral Home & Cremations, Winter Garden.

Shirley Patricia Smith, 92, of Orlando, died Saturday, June 8, 2024. Woodlawn Funeral Home & Memorial Park, Gotha. Barbara Baxter Van Buren, 92, of Clermont, died Tuesday, June 4, 2024. Baldwin-Fairchild Winter Garden Funeral Home.

Eric Olsen, band and orchestra director at Water Spring Middle School, instructed the beginning band camp members.

Madison Jackson is one of the students in the beginning camp.

Below: More than

high school students volunteered at the music camp.

Beginning band camp members Ruby Aguirre, left, and Finn Davis practiced their instruments together.

Right: Eric Olsen, left, band and orchestra director at Water Spring Middle School, and Charlene Cannon, Horizon High School band director, helped lead classes.

Color guard cadet camp members

Sophia Silva, left, and Bronte Groeninger stopped for a quick picture during practice.

Right: Elementary music camp students Adilyn Bullman, left, and Pedro Arreaza practiced the xylophone.

THESE OLD TIMES FROM THE WINTER GARDEN HERITAGE FOUNDATION

80 years ago

Winter Garden Chief of Police Johns requested all dog owners watch for dates to be published in the newspaper of animal inoculation of dogs in July, when a veterinarian will be in Winter Garden to do the work.

The Winter Garden War Price and Rationing Board’s quota for Grade 1 tires was greatly oversubscribed, but certificates were to be issued and mailed as soon as the quota was available.

Catches in Lake Apopka were unusually good during the week with about 375 pounds of bass ranging from 1.5 pounds to nearly 10 pounds.

R.D. Keene of Winter Garden was re-elected president of the Growers and Shippers League of Florida.

70 years ago

A.D. Mims, county commissioner, contacted the Marion Construction superintendent and had visited the equipment headquarters to learn all equipment was being set up to begin the resurfacing of Old Highway 50 from Orlando to the Lake County line.

About 200 students of Tildenville Elementary School were given a watermelon feast as a closing party for the year. Melons were given by Francis Boston, a member of the Federal Fruit Inspection Board.

Georgianna and Jimmy Hendrix were in the mental state of ecstasy over the beginning of their long hope for a home in Showalter Park.

Winter Garden men who were about to graduate from the University of Florida were Robert Freeman, Robert Hull, Granville Fulmer and Billy Mims.

50 years ago

An overflow crowd of business and community leaders was expected when Gov. Reubin O.

On June 12, 1997, Winter Garden Mayor Jack Quesinberry and Orange County Mayor Linda Chapin celebrated the extension of the West Orange Trail. The setting is Clarcona, a rural village whose name evolved from Clark’s Corner; William N. Clark was significant in organizing this community. The West Orange Trail, a project dear to the hearts of many city and county officers, helped spark the revival of Winter Garden’s downtown historic district when it opened in the fall of 1994.

The Maps Collection at the Winter Garden Heritage Foundation has gathered for preservation every version of the popular West Orange Trail map, available at the visitors center.

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.

Askew was scheduled to appear as guest speaker at a West Orange Chamber of Commerce luncheon at the Winter Garden Inn. His visit coincided with the completion of West Orange Memorial Hospital’s new $2.5 million wing. On hand to greet the governor were Winter Garden Mayor C.H. Johnson, Ocoee Mayor Scott Vandergrift, Windermere Mayor Dean Kinzey, Oakland Mayor Wil-

liam Holden, Orlando Mayor Carl T. Langford and Apopka Mayor John Land.

Members of First Baptist Church honored Pastor K. Fay DeSha on the 25th anniversary of his ministry and eighth anniversary at the local church.

Ron Lopsonzski joined Bekemeyer Realty as an associate and was to be involved in all phases of real estate.

20 years ago

The West Orange Junior Service League announced its debutantes: Lauren Leslie Beck, Rose Marie Gaset, Megan McGee Glass, Elizabeth Mary Hanley, Taylor Jo McKenzie, Katrina Meeks, Erin Casey Osborne, Emily Ann Paladino, Julie Ann Pfaff, Kelly Elizabeth Wiedenbeck and Brittany Melinda Willis.

THROWBACK THURSDAY

JUNE 13, 1974

Jimmy Pitchford, owner of Jimmy’s Thriftway grocery store in downtown Winter Garden, ran a weekly advertisement in The Winter Garden Times. He shared a few of the week’s specials as well as his Food for Thought, which was a collection of kitchen tips and hints. In 1974, Pitchford suggested the following: To rid your hands of the smell of onion, sprinkle them with salt and rinse with clear water. To tenderize meat without over-stewing, marinate in an acid-base liquid, such as tomato juice, wine or salad dressing.

By Luis Campos

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BACKING MUSICIANS by Aaron Rosenberg, edited by Jeff Chen

redpages@orangeobserver.com

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