Winter Garden leaders are mulling an alcohol ordinance downtown. 7A.
YOUR TOWN
CITY TO BREAK GROUND ON PHASE 2 OF TUCKER RANCH
A groundbreaking ceremony for Phase 2 of Tucker Ranch Park and Nature Preserve will take place at 10 a.m. Friday, Aug. 23, at 100 Avalon Road, Winter Garden.
The 25.6-acre addition (named Tucker Ranch Holistic Health, Wellness, Teaching Farm and Family Activity Center) will be carved out of the existing 209-acre park.
The $31 million, state-ofthe-art facility will include a 5,000-square-foot retreat center for programming and classes, edible and teaching gardens, an outdoor teaching kitchen, a trail system with exercise nodes, and a greenhouse. Walking paths will connect it to the existing park’s offerings, which include a playground, nature trails, picnic areas and a canoe/kayak launch. Tucker Ranch Park and Nature Preserve will remain open during construction. The park is open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily from March through October and from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. from November through February. Admission is free.
CREALDE DONATES ARTWORK
‘The Lake Project: A Documentary Exploring the Land and People of Lake Apopka’ can be seen in the city of Winter Garden. PAGE 3A
District
1 vote too close to call
The Dyson Legacy
George Dyson and his wife, Annie Bell, are the first of four generations to keep businesses operating in east Winter Garden, providing places for residents to shop, dine, hang out and open their own commercial endeavors. STORY ON PAGE 4A.
Courtesy images
Annie Bell and George Dyson operated Dyson’s Taxi in east Winter Garden.
James Dyson always invited his family to visit Dyson’s Short Stop.
Just five votes separate Orange County District 1 candidates, prompting a recount
The race for Orange County School Board District 4 seat will head to a runoff between Anne Douglas and Kyle Goudy.
OBSERVER STAFF
In poetic, fitting fashion, one of West Orange’s most contentious political races in history wasn’t settled even after all the votes were tallied. In the race for the Orange County Commission District 1 seat, incumbent Nicole Wilson eked out an apparent win over challenger Austin Arthur — but only by the slimmest of margins. According to the Orange County Supervisor of Elections’ unofficial election results Tuesday, Aug. 20, just five votes separated the candidates. Arthur received 14,047 votes (49.99%), while Wilson garnered 14,052 (50.01%). There were 89 write-in votes.
The results have triggered a recount and other machinations, which Christopher Heath, Orange County Supervisor of Elections public information officer, said will take place this week.
“There’s two days for people to cure their vote-by-mail ballots that have been rejected,” Heath said. “So, let’s say we have a signature mismatch or something like that, you can submit a cure affidavit, and that will correct some of them. But then we will go through the recount process of a machine recount, and then we will go through a recount process of a hand recount if it’s within a quarter (of a) percentage point.”
If after all of that, the race is a tie, there is another way to decide.
“If it is an absolute tie, state law says the candidates shall draw lots,” Heath said. “The statute does not say what lots is. That will be for the supervisor himself to determine.”
Earlier in the evening, the results had Arthur leading by 24 votes. Then, at about 9 p.m., the results changed to show Wilson leading by five.
“We feel we won by 24 votes,”
Arthur said when reached at his watch party Tuesday night.
And although Arthur said his campaign assumed the race
would be close, he did not expect it to be this close. “I think that what is clear is that people are divided on who they want to be their next commissioner,” Arthur said. “I don’t really think the community is divided at the root. ... When I’m knocking on doors ... I don’t hear division. I hear a West Orange County frustrated with ... development, with infrastructure and with no access to their commissioner.”
Arthur said the negativity surrounding the election caused division in the community.
“There were AI versions of my voice ... a website that is spewing hatred about me and my family, fake socialmedia accounts ... that’s what caused the division,” he said. “We are united on concerns but divided on this election.”
Wilson did not return repeated calls seeking comment.
ORANGE COUNTY SCHOOL BOARD DISTRICT 4
Goudy secured the most votes — 8,537 (37.31%), with Douglas receiving 7,500 (32.78%) and Petroski getting 6,844 (29.91%).
However, because no one candidate received 50% plus one vote, Goudy and Douglas will move on to a runoff in the November general election.
“First and foremost, I want to thank my family, the voters, volunteers and countless people that made this victory tonight possible,” Goudy said.
“We firmly believe that I am the candidate with the right mix of education and business experience for the job. We will diligently work to meet members of the community and make sure that we understand their concerns as it relates to education in Orange County.”
Douglas vowed to keep fighting.
ing wife and daughters for sacrificing so much this past year,” he said.
“It has been an amazing experience filled with personal growth and new friendships that will last far beyond any election.”
ORANGE COUNTY TAX COLLECTOR
Democrat incumbent Scott Randolph easily defeated challenger David Nelson Freeman to retain his seat as Orange County tax collector. Randolph will face a write-in candidate in the Nov. 5 general election.
STATE ATTORNEY
In the Republican primary for state attorney, Ninth Judicial Circuit, Seth Hyman (29,861 votes, 64.39%) defeated Thomas Feiter (16,511 votes, 35.61%).
Hyman will move on to the general election to face incumbent Andrew Bain and Democrat Monique Worrell.
STATE SENATE DISTRICT 13
In similar fashion, Tuesday’s primary yielded no winner for the Orange County School Board District 4 seat. The race featured candidates Anne Douglas, Kyle Goudy and Jake Petroski.
“Voters in School Board District 4 have spoken, and they are tired of the extremist policies coming out of Tallahassee,” she said. “I’m excited that many voters chose me, but this is far from over. We need fighters to protect our kids, our parents and our teachers. I’m going to fight hard to make sure that we win in November and our kids win after November.”
Petroski congratulated both.
“I want to first thank my amaz-
In the Republican primary for State Senate District 13, voters selected Keith Truenow as their candidate to face Democrat Stephanie Dukes in the Nov. 5 general election.
STATE SENATE DISTRICT 15
Incumbent Geraldine Thompson successfully defended her seat against challenger Randolph Bracy III.
STATE REP. DISTRICT 44
District 44 Florida State Rep. Jennifer “Rita” Harris easily won reelection over challenger Daisy Morales.
VISUAL REPRESENTATION
Peter Schreyer has given ‘The Lake Project: A Documentary Exploring the Land and People of Lake Apopka’ to the city of Winter Garden.
Winter Garden City Hall’s Commission Chambers are lined with framed artwork created by students and instructors at Crealdé School of Art — photographs and paintings that document the history of Lake Apopka and depict the people and culture of the communities that dot the lake’s perimeter.
Peter Schreyer, the project leader, photography instructor and executive director at Crealdé, and plein air painter Tom Sadler curated the collection of art in 2017. The pieces were on display in 2018 in several locations — at Winter Garden City Hall, the Winter Garden Heritage Foundation, the Winter Garden Library and the Orange County History Museum.
And now they are back home permanently at City Hall.
Crealdé and Schreyer donated “The Lake Project: A Documentary Exploring the Land and People of Lake Apopka” to the city of Winter Garden at the Aug. 8 City Commission meeting.
The gallery project now hangs in the Commission Chambers at City Hall. The exhibit consists of 45 archival photographs and oral histories and nine paintings of Florida’s top landscape painters. The exhibit explores the relationship between Lake Apopka and the diverse people who have called the shores of Florida’s third-largest lake their home and place of work.
Schreyer said he wanted to donate this collection to Winter Garden because the city owns many of his other artwork and it seemed like a logical home for the pieces since so much of the content came from the local community.
“While the exhibit is about the whole lake … clearly Winter Garden is the biggest town,” Schreyer said.
He said he convinced his board of directors it was best to put the collection where it was originally located. The condition of the donation was a majority of the lake collection had to be on permanent display where viewing was free for residents.
“The city of Winter Garden already owns 29 of my archival pieces, mostly on the second floor, near the mayor’s office, and a few of them are in conference rooms,” he said. “They cover about 40 years of the city.”
Another 28 pieces of Crealdé artwork are on display at the Maxey Community Center, in east Winter Garden, which depict the people of the historic black community.
“The lake project is different in that it was done all at the same time and by a lot of different artists,” Schreyer said.
“It cost about $30,000 to produce this entire project, and Crealdé received a grant to pay for all the production.”
The nine paintings were created by professional plein air painters. Originally, the artists committed to keep their work in the exhibit for two or three years, and then they had a choice of donating the painting to Crealdé.
About half of them gave their original artwork, Schreyer said, and the other half of the paintings are chicles.
There are 45 photographs in the exhibition taken by 12 student photographers and two instructors.
“They’re all seasoned photography students, and they’re all just thrilled to be part of this permanent display,”
PHOTOGRAPHERS
Sherri Bunye
Laura Barthle
Natalie Colon
Ray Giles
Laurie Hagemaier
Jeff Kraus
Holly Manus
Matt Nicholson
Jennifer Pereira
Marsee Perkins
Audrey Rudolph
Peter Schreyer
Cynthia Slaughter Kucku Varghese
PLEIN AIR PAINTERS
Stephen Bach
Matthew Cornell
Cynthia Edmonds
Sally Evans
Martha Lent
Peter Pettegrew
Morgan Samuel
Price
Tom Sadler
Donald Sondag
Barbara Tiffany
Schreyer said. “It’s a dream of every artist to have his artwork on permanent display.”
Schreyer has a passion for documenting community history through the camera lens, and he has embarked on numerous projects featuring Lake Apopka. This particular project brought together many elements and many different groups of people who call the perimeter of the lake home, including farmers, black communities and new development, he said.
Oakland continues talks with Orange County Fire Rescue
The department has proposed a fire tax increase, which the town must absorb through either an increased millage rate for the next fiscal year or by finding ways to cut expenditures.
AMY QUESINBERRY COMMUNITY EDITOR
The Oakland Town Commission was stunned after proposing a balanced budget with a 6.3 millage rate and then learning Orange County Fire Rescue was increasing the fire taxes it charges the municipalities it services. This forced Oakland to consider raising its millage rate to 6.9 to cover the extra cost.
After OCFR announced it was increasing the millage to its Municipal Service Taxing Unit rate by .6, town staff has been reexamining the proposed balanced budget for Fiscal Year 2024-25, looking for expenditures that can be reduced or any additional revenues the town might be able to generate for the upcoming fiscal year.
“The end goal of revisiting the budget is to find creative ways to reduce the tentative millage rate without effecting service delivery to town residents,” Town Manager Andy Stewart wrote in a report to the commission.
“Town staff has started to look at expenses,” he said during the Tuesday, Aug. 12, commission meeting.
“We’re doing all we can do. We’re looking at health insurances to get some quotes to see if we can save some funds there. … We’re also looking to get a meeting with Florida Investment. … We’re looking at every little penny we have without cutting services to our residents.”
Public hearings will be held in September, and town staff will bring back a balanced budget with the lowest millage rate possible.
The town continues to be in discussions with Orange County as it relates to the proposed fire tax increase.
LIVE LOCAL ACT
The Oakland commission passed a resolution pertaining to the Florida Legislature’s Live Local Act, which intends to increase workforce and affordable housing through the state.
The Live Local Act requires all Florida governments to approve a multi-family or mixed-use residential project in any commercial, industrial or mixed-use zoning district. The proposed project must provide that at least 40% of the rental multi-family units are rented at a rate that is considered affordable, as defined by the state for persons with an income less than 120% of the area median income for a minimum period of 30 years. Also, all governments must approve the project to develop at the highest density allowed anywhere within the jurisdiction, or 150% of the highest floor area ratio allowed anywhere within the jurisdiction, and must consider reducing parking requirements if
IN OTHER NEWS
n Under the consent agenda, the Oakland Town Commission authorized Mayor Shane Taylor to sign an extension of an agreement with the state for payback of the $320,900 State Revolving Fund loan. The design of the Alternative Water Project was delayed, and the completion date was moved from February with repayment of the loan to begin in August. The date of the first payment now is Nov. 15.
n Town Manager Andy Stewart congratulated Oakland Avenue Charter School for earning an “A” grade from Orange County Public Schools for a second consecutive year. OACS students scored 91% in proficiency, placing them fourth in Orange County.
n Taylor recognized eight town employees who have been with Oakland for more than 10 years. Public Works Director Mike Parker has worked for the town for 12 years. At the charter school, Amanda Kohmetscher, technology specialist, guidance counselor Karen Kieffer and teachers Muffet Young, Joann Brouty and Melissa Keating all have served for 18 years; teacher Andrea Wanuck, 12 years; and teacher Michele Murphy, 11 years.
n The town is advertising for a new auditing service following the departure of the current auditing firm, Brynjulfson CPA. A selection committee will review all submitted proposals.
the project is within one quarter of one mile of a transit stop.
In Oakland, any properties that have a commercial, industrial or mixed-use zoning are potentially developable under the Live Local Act — but the town’s percentage of its total land area that can be used for commercial or industrial uses is only 16.9%, which requires any Live Local Act to be a mixed-use residential development and not a stand-alone multi-family project.
Municipalities cannot opt out of this act or place a moratorium on such projects.
“Unfortunately, our hands are tied,” Taylor said.
“Our small size saves us, because we don’t have that much land,” Commissioner Joseph McMullen said.
‘Night Falls,’ oil on Dibond, by Matthew Cornell. This is a farm north of the lake, located along West Jones Avenue. Farming was so much a part of the region’s history, and there once were numerous places along the road.
Courtesy photo
Peter Schreyer has donated Lake Apopka art to the city of Winter Garden.
Dyson name looms large in east Winter Garden
AMY QUESINBERRY
COMMUNITY EDITOR
James Dyson met his future wife when he was in elementary school. He and his friends were walking down Center Street in east Winter Garden, coming home from a boxing lesson, when he saw a young girl run by and said, “Who is that girl with the big head and the pretty ponytail? That’s going to be my wife.”
Years later — after graduating from Jones High School with her and being drafted into the United States Army — he married that girl, Margaret Barkley. Throughout their marriage, they continued to serve the residents of east Winter Garden with a series of businesses that filled the needs of the black community.
The second generation of Winter Garden Dysons continued the legacy started in 1939 by James Dyson’s parents, George and Annie Bell Dyson, who purchased land at 215 Center St. There, they established a home for their three children and operated a beer garden and juke joint.
“The lively music and blues from the jukebox gave some of the laborers, maids, seasonal workers, etc. an opportunity to unwind and forget about the hard, back-breaking work of the jobs’ labor for the day,” Linday Dyson-Smith wrote in a family history.
James and Margaret Dyson, DysonSmith’s parents, kept the community thriving in the 1980s with multiple
businesses on that Center Street property — called Dyson’s Plaza — including Mr. Hope’s Barber Shop, Mr. Cow’s Store, Ginny’s Soul Food Restaurant, Dyson’s Beer Garden, Dyson’s Taxi, Dyson’s Short Stop and an icehouse company.
This site — and the Dysons — provided a safe space, a place of community, a place of hope.
“Dyson’s Plaza was to fill a need, and Granddaddy was all about entrepreneurship for others in the community,” said Chanell Northern, one of James and Margaret Dyson’s grandchildren. “If someone had an idea to have a store, maybe with clothing, or
a place for kids to do their homework. He wanted to provide an opportunity not only for those who needed goods and services, but also those who wanted to have their own business. … Sometimes you can want to make something happen, but you don’t know how to make something happen. He was one of those people who made it happen.”
Dyson-Smith recalls growing up on the property; the businesses were in the front, and the back of the building had an upstairs and a downstairs apartment. She, her parents and her three siblings, Wanda Northern, Marlena Francis and Dwane Dyson, lived on the second floor, and their grandparents lived below them.
James and Margaret Dyson bought property on East Bay Street in 1962 and opened Luca’s Community Store. The property still is in business as a convenience store.
Dyson-Smith said her father saved every penny and spent his money wisely. He built Dyson’s Plaza and the family home with his own hands.
“My daddy, when he was paid, he would buy a few bricks at a time with his paycheck to build his businesses and our own house,” she said. “Even when he built our primary residence. … It took six or seven years to build our primary residence, but it was mortgage free. He was ahead of his time.”
While he was building his first store on Center Street, James Dyson allowed the community to help with the construction process — children
moved bricks, and neighbors kept the construction site clean.
“There are different people’s fingerprints on the building,” said Alycia Graham, another grandchild.
She remembered her grandfather’s generosity.
“Our grandfather, and our family as a whole, has always been about community as a whole,” she said. “There was a need there, and they saw a need. And our grandfather and our family are about action.”
She also recalled the family pitching in when something needed to be done. The grandchildren worked at Dyson’s Short Stop convenience store. They learned early that the purpose of a business was to make money — but if residents needed a food item and couldn’t afford it, their grandfather gave it to them.
As much as James Dyson was generous with his goods and services, he was equally as adamant about sharing history with the community.
“He was always big on the Juneteenth celebrations,” Graham said. “We would bring food and chicken and hotdogs and baked beans, but we always had to have red soda. We served the community until the food was gone, and there was music and dancing.”
James Dyson passed out flyers explaining Juneteenth, and he had T-shirts made commemorating the day. It was fitting that he died on Juneteenth.
“It was very touching and ironic to me because it was finally a day he could rest,” granddaughter Chanell Northern said.
The family hasn’t hosted a Juneteenth celebration since their grandfather died in 2017, but they are making plans to hold an event next June on Dyson property.
The third and fourth generations of the family continues to look for ways to enhance the neighborhood and provided opportunities for entrepreneurs to set up shop.
More recently, the Dyson’s Plaza building has housed the Taste of Tasha restaurant, Mr. D’s retail store and A&E Grocery Store.
The Aug. 16 groundbreaking marked a new beginning for Dyson’s Plaza.
“It’s almost a full-circle moment for me, because I have children now and I can remember coming to work with my grandparents when it was Dyson Short Stop,” Graham said. “My kids will see the continuation of the legacy.”
Chanell Northern said the Dyson family still owns other pieces of property in east Winter Garden and plans to build other businesses in the neighborhood. Dyson-Smith said they want to give residents a chance to lease space and run their own businesses.
“We still want to give back to the community,” Graham said. “We’re the faces of the legacy. … We’re not trying to take anything. We’re just trying to give.”
City breaks ground on Dyson’s Plaza revitalization
ANNABELLE SIKES
NEWS EDITOR
The city of Winter Garden broke ground on the new Dyson’s Plaza Commercial Revitalization Project Friday, Aug. 16, in the Historic East Winter Garden Neighborhood.
The redevelopment of the 2,300-square-foot property is considered ground zero for the revitalization of the neighborhood. The project is a major step forward to reenergize the commercial vibrancy in a neighborhood-friendly manner.
The $704,000 project will include renovations, such as the creation of two separate storefronts, interior/exterior building improvements, outdoor seating addition, new landscaping and parking lot improvements.
Winter Garden Economic Development Director Marc Hutchinson said the milestone was made possible by a grant awarded by the city of Winter Garden’s Community Redevelopment Agency under the direction and advice of the city’s Community Redevelopment Agency Advisory Board and with the support of the Orange County Board of County Commissioners.
“This is a special and significant moment for both the city … (and the) neighborhood,” Mayor John Rees said. “This community received the official designation through unanimous resolution by the City Commission on Feb. 8, 2024, to honor its rich legacy and heritage. The Dysons have the old-
est, multi-generational, familyowned business in east Winter Garden.”
“This is what community looks like,” Winter Garden District 3 Commissioner Chloe Johnson said.
“Today, we are creating history together. History that we can all look back on and be proud of. History that took leadership, breaking barriers and aspiring change. So, to the city of Winter Garden and to the Dyson’s, job well done as we continue to work together for the betterment of our communities.
As I always say, we are all better together.”
The Dyson family had several relatives and friends in attendance, including great-grandchildren Alycia Graham, Chanell Northern and Malcolm Northern, as well as the four children of James and Margaret Dyson: Linday Dyson-Smith Wanda Northern, Dwane Dyson and Marlena Francis.
“This is the start of a new beginning, not only for my family but for east Winter Garden and the community,” Dyson-Smith said.
Marketing and Sales Associate / Zari Gotay, zari@OrangeObserver.com
“My father truly believed in giving others opportunities to have a business, so he would lease the property to community members, as well, to start their entrepreneurship business.”
“Today is a good day, it’s a great day, it’s a historic day,” Chanell Northern added. “I did not have the pleasure of meeting my greatgrandparents, they did pass away before I was born, but I’m sure that they would be very proud of what we’re doing today and what’s happening in the future.”
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Courtesy photos
Dyson’s Plaza is getting
Margaret and James Dyson created many businesses to fill the community’s needs.
Annabelle
Police agencies arrest South American theft ring in Winter Garden
One of the suspects was able to bail out of jail with GPS monitoring, but he cut the device off and is now at-large.
Four Colombians who are in the United States illegally were arrested last week in Winter Garden.
Detectives believe the four are responsible for nine high-end residential burglaries in a half-dozen Florida counties, and they are suspected in more. The total value of thefts from the nine burglaries is estimated at $1,690,100.
Detectives from the Polk County Sheriff’s Office collaborated with sheriff’s offices in Hillsborough, Pinellas, Pasco, Manatee and Collier counties; the Florida Department of Law Enforcement; and the Attorney General’s Office of Statewide Prosecution to conduct the 17-month investigation.
The group targeted the homes of business owners and would surveil the residences ahead of each burglary.
The group targeted jewelry and watches, designer purses and bags, and cash.
In Polk County, one burglary is known to have occurred in Lakeland, with four other burglaries still under investigation and believed to have been committed by the group. Four burglaries were committed by the group in Hillsborough County, and one burglary each in the other four counties.
“Polk County and the state of Florida are not alone in this problem,” Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd said. “South American theft groups are targeting communities all across the country. All four of our suspects have taken advantage of our functionally non-existent border control and entered into the United States illegally to conduct their illegal activities. I am proud of the work by our detectives, the various sheriff’s offices, FDLE and the Attorney General’s Office of Statewide Prosecution.”
Attorney General Ashley Moody said: “These defendants conspired together to commit multiple burglaries across Central Florida — using members of the group as decoys outside the homes of small business owners while others broke into the residences, stealing more than $1.5 million worth of items. Thanks to the great investigative work of our law enforcement partners, our statewide prosecutors have charged them with serious felony counts and these criminals will be held accountable.”
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
THE SUSPECTS
ANGLICAN
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
n Geraldine GaleanoPerez, 33 (currently in the Polk County Jail). Galeano-Perez has charges in Polk County for racketeering, conspiracy to commit racketeering, unlawful use of two-way communication device, burglary of dwelling, conspiracy to commit burglary, grand theft of $100,000 or more, conspiracy to commit grand theft over $100,000, dealing in stolen property, conspiracy to deal in stolen property and providing false information of pawned items (13 counts). Her prior criminal history in Colombia includes illegal trafficking/possession of firearms and ammunition, and grand larceny. She also has been arrested in New York for possession of controlled substance, possession of forged instrument and money laundering. Her bond in Polk County is set at $5.6 million.
ANGLICAN COMMUNITY FELLOWSHIP CHURCH
Rector The Rev. Canon Tim Trombitas 1146 East Plant St, Winter Garden SUNDAY SERVICE 10:00 AM Find us at: Theacf.net BAPTIST
BEULAH BAPTIST
Pastor Casey Butner 671 Beulah Rd, Winter Garden 407-656-3342 | BeulahBaptistWG.org
SUNDAY BIBLE STUDY 9:30AM SUNDAY SERVICE 11:00AM WEDNESDAY SERVICE 6:00PM
FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH
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
Adult Sunday School 10:00am Worship www.windermereunion.org
n Milton Ayala-Sierra, 25 (deported to Colombia). Ayala-Sierra has Polk County charges for racketeering, conspiracy to commit racketeering and dealing in stolen property. He was charged in Hillsborough County for traveling across county lines to commit burglary and possession of burglary tools. Kissimmee PD charged him with dealing in stolen property and unlawful use of two-way communication device. His prior criminal history in New York includes possession of forged instrument and money laundering. Ayala-Sierra’s current bond is $2.5 million.
125 E Plant St., Winter Garden 407-656-2352
SUNDAYS 8:30 am Traditional 9:45 am Bible Study 11:00 am Contemporary WEDNESDAYS 6pm - Awana Pastor Tim Grosshans www.fbcwg.org 2nd Campus: FOUNDATION WORSHIP
SUNDAYS 9:45 am - All Ages Foundation Academy High School 15304 Tilden Rd., Winter Garden www.FoundationWorship.com 407-730-1867
n Jason Alexander Higuera-Ruiz, 41 (unknown whereabouts). Higuera-Ruiz has Polk County charges for racketeering, conspiracy to commit racketeering, unlawful use of a two-way communication device, burglary of a dwelling, conspiracy to commit burglary, grand theft over $100,000, conspiracy to commit grand theft over $100,000 and conspiracy to deal in stolen property. Higuera-Ruiz was able to bail out of jail with GPS monitoring, but he cut the device off and is now at-large. Higuera-Ruiz’s current bond is $5.6 million.
n Geiler Orobio-Cabezas, 36 (currently in the Pinellas County Jail). Orobio-Cabezas has Polk County charges for racketeering, conspiracy to commit racketeering, unlawful use of a two-way communication device, burglary of a dwelling, conspiracy to commit burglary, conspiracy to deal in stolen property and possession of burglary tools. He was arrested in 2023 in Michigan for burglary. His current bond is $3.1 million.
YouTube
Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd announced the arrests during a press conference last week.
Couple fulfills lifelong dream with new collectibles shop
Husband-and-wife duo Philip and Tiffany Obradovich opened Winter Card’N Collectibles earlier this month.
ANNABELLE SIKES
NEWS EDITOR
Life is too short.
That’s the motto new Winter Garden residents Philip and Tiffany Obradovich live by following the recent loss of several close family members, as well as Philip Obradovich’s battle with cancer.
While some drown in the sadness of life’s tragedies, the husband-
and-wife duo have decided on following a different path for themselves and their three children.
Six months ago, the family decided to make the move from Wesley Chapel to Winter Garden.
Earlier this month, Philip and Tiffany Obradovich also decided to share their passions with their new community by opening Winter Card’N Collectibles off Dillard Street.
The store is a haven for collectors seeking rare gems and cherished classics alike. With a curated selection spanning from vintage relics to modern-day marvels, the store caters to every fan’s fervor. Whether a seasoned collector or a newcomer to the hobby, the shop’s knowledgeable team is dedicated to providing a personalized experience, guiding patrons through the extensive inventory with expertise and enthusiasm. Items in the store include sports cards, dolls, jerseys, loungefly backpacks and Funko Pops, and online
and in-person transactions both are offered.
BUILDING A NEW HOME
Tiffany Obradovich was commuting about 90 minutes from the family’s home in Wesley Chapel to Ocoee for about a year to take her two daughters to cheer at Top Gun All Stars of Orlando.
Recently, the family decided to start renting a house in Winter Garden and fell in love with the downtown area.
Philip and Tiffany Obradovich said they would have loved to open their start-up, brick-and-mortar shop in the downtown area, but the prices for rent were too expensive, and so they decided on what they felt was the next best location.
“It reminds me of a small, hometown type of vibe, but then you just drive a couple of streets up, and you’re kind of in the city,” Tiffany Obradovich said. “It’s the best of both worlds, really. I love walking over to downtown Winter Garden and exploring all of the mom-and-pop shops and the family events on the weekends. It’s just a place that you want to raise your kids and have your family in.”
Although Philip Obradovich co-ran a collectibles shop in the early 2000s, over the years, the couple have mostly kept their buying and selling of items exclusively online.
However, the new move inspired them to make a change.
Winter Card’N Collectibles opened its doors Monday, Aug. 5.
‘IT’S ALWAYS BEEN OUR THING’ Collectibles are a tradition for the Obradovich family.
Philip Obradovich always loved and watched sports, although his interest in sports cards has come and gone over the years.
He was active in the sports cards community in the 1990s, and although he fell out of the hobby for a while, he picked it back up in 2003 for about seven years before losing interest again.
About 18 months ago, he entered back into the sports cards realm again.
Tiffany Obradovich has had a love for collectibles since she was a little girl.
She used to collect Trolls and Spice Girls dolls, although she would never open them.
“I always wanted to keep them sealed,” she said. “I guess I was a very weird kid, because everyone else usually wants to open their gifts as soon as they receive them. I was always big into collecting items. Even recently, these McDonald’s cups came out, and what’s the first thing I want to do? Go to McDonald’s and get every single one of them.”
The couple has been married for almost 12 years, and they said collectibles always have been their thing. They even collected L.O.L Surprise dolls with their daughters growing up.
Now, Philip and Tiffany Obradovich are excited to share their love for collectibles with the Winter Garden community. The couple plans to host trade nights at the shop where locals can meet, engage, and enjoy small snacks and refreshments.
“The larger we get, the more we can do,” Philip Obradovich said. “We want to help, visit and patronize all of the local stores in our community, and we just want to grow.”
Boathouse owners, Town Council want deal done
ANNABELLE SIKES
NEWS EDITOR
The controversial boathouse litigation was the main topic of discussion at the Windermere Town Council meeting Tuesday, Aug. 13, following a settlement offer sent to the town from the boathouse owners.
Boathouse owners Trevor and Bo Siemian, Anne Fanelli, Russell and Cindy Gentry, George Poelker, Joyce Rose, and Doug and Jerry Fay sent the settlement offer giving the town 45 days to respond. The offer expired on Thursday, Aug. 15, and the owners said they received no response from the town.
The settlement offer included seven points: the boathouse owners would retain private ownership and possession of their respective boathouses; the town would disclaim any interest in the boathouses and the associated area; the town would agree that its officers, employees and agents would not interfere with the boathouse owners; the boathouse owners would pay property taxes directly to the Orange County Tax Collector; the boathouse owners would not use the boathouses for any commercial purposes or any business or trade; the boathouse owners would maintain their respective boathouse in good repair and sanitary condition; the complaints and counterclaims would be dismissed with prejudice by all parties’; and all parties would bear their own attorneys’ fees and costs.
Jerry Fay and his wife have owned their boathouse since the mid 1960s.
“We’ve maintained it, paid insurance, paid taxes and even paid the town their lease to cross public property,” he said. “I’m the last person left that actually signed the original lease. The way it was put to us back then was that we could either sign the lease and kick the can down the road 20 years, or we could get involved in an expensive legal battle now, and we all just decided on the first option. Now, here we are 20 years later. … We sent them the proposal with the response date
and we didn’t even get a response. They just totally ignored it.
“I’ve lived here a long time, and this little town means a lot to me,” he said. “We would like this whole thing to be over. We would like the town to recognize the fact that we own the boathouses and that if we win we’re not going to go after them for legal fees. They sued us; we didn’t sue them. We just want the whole thing to be dropped, so they can lick their wounds, and we can lick our wounds.
Everyone can just go on with their lives. I never dreamed this thing would cost so much money to defend. This has just been crazy.”
LITIGATION
The five Palmer Park boathouses, built between 1910 and 1915 on West Third Avenue, have become a strong point of contention through the years.
The original lease agreement was signed in 1985, before being extended in 2001. It then expired in 2021 and was again extended on a month-tomonth basis until March 2022.
The Town Council then voted to terminate the leases, giving the boathouse owners 60 days to leave the structures. The town sued in July 2022 after the boathouse owners refused to vacate.
At its September 2022 meeting, the Town Council approved a resolution to officially authorize the town attorney to proceed with a lawsuit filed against occupants of the boathouses.
The town previously filed lawsuits against each of seven boathouse owners July 15, 2022.
However, the boathouse occupants’ attorney, A. Kurt Ardaman, argued the lawsuits were not valid because of a lack of a signed resolution that had not accompanied the filings.
Town leaders discussed the litigation in May. Town Attorney Nick Dancaescu said the mediation reached an impasse, but he could not share what happened in the mediation because of Florida Statutes.
At the meeting, Town Council Member Tom Stroup said he was hop-
“… We would like the town to recognize the fact that we own the boathouses and that if we win we’re not going to go after them for legal fees. They sued us; we didn’t sue them. We just want the whole thing to be dropped, so they can lick their wounds, and we can lick our wounds. Everyone can just go on with their lives.
ing the issues of the litigation would have been resolved in mediation. He said hundreds of thousands of dollars have been spent on both sides of the argument and he believes the trial will double those numbers.
Stroup made several suggestions, including that both parties drop the lawsuit and neither party seeks legal cost restitution, the previous lease agreements be terminated and the town sell the boathouses to the previous lessees with the cost of the boathouse sales to be determined by the council, and the boathouse upkeep and maintenance fall under the same rules and regulations as all residential property in Windermere.
However, the offer was never brought before the council again for a vote.
SEARCHING FOR A SOLUTION
Town attorneys Summer DeGel and Dancaescu, of Gray Robinson, said the settlement proposal outlines several points the boathouse owners say to be true — such as the lagoon being privately owned and the determination of the ordinary high-water line. However, an email from the attorneys to the Town Council states “the proposal purports to set forth several
facts to which we disagree.”
In the proposal, the boathouse owners reference Stroup’s concerns and ideas regarding the lawsuit.
“We agree with Mr. Stroup,” they wrote. “No matter the outcome, if this ends in trial, there will be no real winner. In that vein, we would like to make a written settlement proposal. We hope this proposal is received in the spirit in which it is intended, i.e. we are all residents of this beautiful town and would like to start the healing process of mending any hard feelings or unintended animosities.”
Siemian said when he moved his family back to Windermere a year ago, he couldn’t wait to raise his kids in the same tight-knit community in which he grew up.
“It’s difficult for me to understand how the mayor, town manager and most of the Town Council can be so comfortable wasting hundreds of thousands of taxpayer dollars to sue upstanding members of this community over their private property,” he said. “It’s a scary display of government overreach and being financially irresponsible. The town has tried to make us out to be the instigators and attempted to vilify us in the community. It’s sad, because five of the boat-
house owners have lived in and contributed to this community for (more than) 30 years.
“To be clear, the town is the one suing us,” he said. “We have acted in good faith and tried to seek a longterm resolution. The town has not reciprocated our effort to resolve this matter.”
“No one likes this type of litigation,” Mayor Jim O’Brien said. “No one wins, and that’s pretty clear. I don’t think that anyone is naive enough to think that. I think what we’re talking about here and how we got to this point is very hard. Our issues, our questions and our challenges that over a long period of time have never truly come to a solution or an agreement.”
Council Member Mandy David said the boathouse owners have not seemed open to negotiations.
“I understand everybody wants what they want,” Council Member Andy Williams said. “This is never going to end well, but we need to make a final decision on this. … We’re almost there, and I think we’re on the right track right now.”
Stroup asked the council to give a shade meeting another shot, to which all council members consented to.
Annabelle Sikes
Philip and Tiffany Obradovich are the proud owners of Winter Card’N Collectibles.
Annabelle Sikes
The five Palmer Park boathouses, located on West Third Avenue in the town of Windermere, have become a strong point of contention through the years.
How will Winter Garden’s alcohol ordinance impact downtown businesses?
City staff soon plan to present a new proposed alcohol ordinance to the City Commission that will primarily impact the downtown district.
SIKES
ANNABELLE
NEWS EDITOR
Downtown Winter Garden stakehold-
ers on Wednesday, Aug. 17, received an email from city staff about a new proposed alcohol ordinance.
In the email, the city said Florida amended the law and requirements for alcohol sales and licensure last year. Therefore, the ordinance is being proposed “to ensure sufficient alignment with the state statute, while at the same time include considerations that are both right for Winter Garden and preserve what we’ve collectively worked so hard to nurture in vibrancy and family-friendliness.”
However, several downtown business owners have multiple concerns regarding the ordinance, including the long-term economic impact the ordinance could have on the area if approved.
“The evolution in downtown from a focus on the land and agriculture to the people who live there was largely driven by what was needed by the community: the West Orange Trail, an improved streetscape, the farmers market and the Garden Theatre,” said Becky Roper, owner of Pilars Martini & Loft in downtown Winter Garden.
“All of these changes started bringing thousands of new faces to our town, but it was evident there was still something missing and more that needed to evolve with the change in times.
“That’s when the creation of new businesses — which many never imagined would open and thrive in this buzzing, diverse welcoming hometown full of joy for both old and new families curious about the sense of place being crafted — began popping up,” she said. “Business leaders started to notice that our small city was being recognized on a larger scale as a place to be proud of, largely because it quickly responded to the organic growth and provided our community what it needed. The Sunday Garden Theatre matinee or the after-evening-show theater guests were initially greeted by a ghost town.
“That is until ‘blue laws’ were lifted, which immediately allowed a vibrancy and flexibility to build a thriving city, seven days a week,” Roper said.
“… The proposed alcohol ordinance slams the door shut on this incredible progress and, more importantly, does not serve this new community as a whole, but solely a small segment of a Winter Garden of a different time.”
“This opened the doors to encourage diverse dining, shopping provided by small vendors and coffee shops and late night spots to thrive all hours of the day and into the night in a new and exhilarating Winter Garden. The proposed alcohol ordinance slams the door shut on this incredible progress and, more importantly, does not serve this new community as a whole, but solely a small segment of a Winter Garden of a different time.”
THE PROPOSAL
While the amendment elements for the ordinance have not yet been discussed or approved by the City Commission, staff said they wanted to share a preview with the stakeholders regarding impending changes that will primarily impact the downtown district.
The email included three attachments: a fact sheet, the complete revised ordinance and a map outlining the city’s downtown district.
The fact sheet addresses topics such as opening a business that serves alcohol, opening a bar, serving beer and wine at a restaurant, serving alcohol at a restaurant, opening a brewery or distillery, getting approved as a finedining establishment, and serving alcohol at a special event.
The new ordinance discusses governing items, such as business establishment locations near a church or school, hours of sale and service of alcoholic beverages; and it requires restaurants to discontinue selling and serving alcoholic beverages when food service is not available via onsite food preparation facilities.
City Manager Jon C. Williams said the goal of the ordinance is to align the City Code with the City Charter and state law, as well as address “the deleterious effects of serving alcoholic beverages after midnight.”
He said these effects include loud and raucous behavior by patrons; causing a shift in patronage from shopping, dining and family entertainment to purchasing and consuming alcohol; requiring the city to expend increased resources upon police patrols and other law-enforcement actions; and creating an environment inconsistent with a healthy environment and family-oriented focus.
The city’s charter states: “All regulations affecting the location of any establishment selling intoxicating liquor, wine or beer for consumption on the premises shall be subject to a referendum of the voters,” and “except for restaurants that derive more than 51% of their annual revenue from the sales of food and non-alcoholic beverages served for consumption on the premises, any establishment selling intoxicating liquors, wine or beer, for consumption on the premises shall not be located less than 1,200 feet from a school or an established church within the corporate limits of the city.”
State law prior to July 1, 2023, places the following requirements for a Special Food Service Liquor License:
derives at least 51% of gross food and beverage revenue from the sale of food and nonalcoholic beverages; contains 2,500 square feet of service area; and is equipped to serve 150 persons at one time.
State liquor license requirements as of July 1, 2023, include: derives at least 51% of gross food and beverage revenue from the sale of food and nonalcoholic beverages; are a bona fide food service establishment that has a least 2,000 square feet of service area; and equipped to serve meals to 120 people at one time, has at least 120 physical seats available for patrons to use during operating hours and holds itself out as a restaurant.
Alcohol beverage and tax regulations provide that a “bona fide restaurant” is a premises that holds itself out to be primarily a restaurant, advertises as a full-service restaurant and offers a complete menu as opposed to snacks or fast foods.
In addition, a bona fide food service establishment must hold a Permanent Food Service license issued by the Florida Division of Hotels & Restaurants. However, the Division of Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco regulations indicated that a public food service establishment licensed by the Division of Hotels & Restaurants is not conclusive in determining whether or not a public food service establishment is a bona fide restaurant.
“It is our hope that you will find the proposed changes both appropriate and fair in terms of the way forward for our city and our cherished downtown,” Economic Development Director Marc Hutchinson wrote in the email. “Again, we are grateful for your patience and supportive stance in the
development of this amendment. We look forward to your feedback.”
City staff said there has not yet been a date set for the ordinance to be discussed by the City Commission.
‘THIS IS DETRIMENTAL
TO DOWNTOWN’
Winter Garden resident Jack Butler, director of legislative affairs for a national professional association, is a certified planning consultant for some of the local affected businesses.
He believes when considering any changes of the type proposed in the draft ordinance, it is vital to understand fully the nature and extent of the issues the city staff is trying to address. He said without this information, the public and affected businesses will have many unanswered questions.
“The city has been very open about (its) desire for input and is encouraging discussions to craft a better ordinance that can overcome some of the issues present in this first draft,” he said. “That is a great attitude, but we may need to go back a step. Before trying to solve ‘the problem,’ a better understanding of what that problem might be is required.”
Butler said it is important to recognize the environment for regulating businesses that serve alcoholic beverages is created by the interaction of state licensing laws and a local government’s ordinances setting opening hours and restricting business locations.
“The bottom line is that affected businesses and citizens cannot endorse a proposed solution if they don’t agree on what the problem actually is,” he said. “That common under-
standing does not currently exist. That needs to be fixed first.”
Both Roper and Pam Thomas, owner of Pammie’s Sammies in downtown Winter Garden, said they have rarely, if ever, observed unruly interactions late at night in reference to alcohol that were not solved in an appropriate manner by local law enforcement.
“Is the old adage, ‘Nothing good happens after midnight,’ enough to suggest implementing such extreme changes to a very special combination we have in this ‘crown-jewel’ of a community?” Roper asked. “Restricting small businesses with a targeted curfew and imposing dining requirements purely intended to restrict state allowable business practices and the sale of alcohol does not reflect who we are now or who we have become.
“Working, visiting and living in a place where you can plan a one-stop inclusive experience is what Winter Garden has become,” she said. “Now, we have a place that offers world-class music, concerts, high-quality theatrical productions and a wonderful dinner out — an enviable destination.”
Thomas believes the proposed ordinance is confusing and alarming.
“It seems to be targeting specific places in the downtown area,” she said. “There’s just so many things about it that I think are very detrimental to downtown. ... I’m worried for all of our businesses that will be impacted. These places will lose significant income. People who work at these places will lose their jobs, and people who come to the downtown area will choose other places. … I just can’t figure out what the city’s intention here is. There has to be a better way.”
File photo
Pilars Martini & Loft, opened by Becky Roper, is one of the downtown businesses that would be impacted by the proposed alcohol ordinance if approved.
— Becky Roper, owner of Pilars Martini & Loft
Reserve at Belmere estate
Ahome in the Reserve at Belmere community in Windermere topped all West Orange-area residential real-estate transactions from July 22 to 29.
The home at 1544 Lake Whitney Drive, Windermere, sold July 24, for $3,100,000. Built in 2007, it has five bedrooms, six-andone-half baths and 7,370 square feet of living area. Days on market: Five. The sellers were represented by Steve Healy, Corcoran Premier Realty.
These are the highestselling homes in each community in West Orange.
DR. PHILLIPS
EMERALD FOREST
The home at 10434 Autumn Glen Court, Orlando, sold July 25, for $665,000. Built in 1997, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,214 square feet of living area. Days on market: Two.
GRANADA VILLAS
The home at 8237 Sorbas Court, Orlando, sold July 25, for $485,000. Built in 1986, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,607 square feet of living area. Days on market: 25.
MILLIONAIRES ROW
The home at 9718 Kilgore Road, Orlando, sold July 24, for $2,600,000. Built in 1992, it has five bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 4,321 square feet of living area. Days on market: 294.
ORANGE TREE COUNTRY CLUB
The home at 6428 Parson Brown Drive, Orlando, sold July 26, for $565,000. Built in 1984, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 1,983 square feet of living area. Days on market: 17.
PASATIEMPO
The home at 5018 Calle De Sol, Orlando, sold July 22, for $625,000.
Built in 1981, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,192 square feet of living area. Days on market: 70.
SANDPOINTE TOWNHOMES
The townhouse at 7732 Chapelhill Drive, Orlando, sold July 23, for $386,000. Built in 1989, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,147 square feet of living area. Days on market: 38.
The townhouse at 7528 Chapelhill Drive, Orlando, sold July 24, for $380,000. Built in 1989, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,147 square feet of living area.
TOREY PINES
The home at 5250 Timberview Terrace, Orlando, sold July 25, for $820,000. Built in 1994, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,793 square feet of living area. Days on market: 41.
VISTA CAY AT HARBOR SQUARE
The condo at 5000 Cayview Ave., No. 40308, Orlando, sold July 25, for $530,000. Built in 2006, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,247 square feet of living area. Days on market: 78.
HORIZON WEST
ASHLIN PARK
The home at 11689 Sprawling Oak Drive, Windermere, sold July 25, for $775,000. Built in 2015, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 2,795 square feet of living area. Days on market: 37.
DEL WEBB OASIS
The home at 15410 Orchard Garden St., Winter Garden, sold July 22, for $731,060. Built in 2024, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,889 square feet of living area. Days on market: 24.
The home at 15464 Orchard Garden St., Winter Garden, sold July 24, for $649,160. Built in 2024, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,943 square feet of living area. Days on market: 34.
The villa at 13400 Princess St., Winter Garden, sold July 22, for $472,200. Built in 2024, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,579 square feet of living area. Days on market: 46.
The villa at 13658 Splashing Isla Drive, Winter Garden, sold July 24, for $450,290. Built in 2024, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,579 square feet of living area.
ENCORE AT OVATION
The townhouse at 15769 Tollington Alley, Winter Garden, sold July 24, for $435,070. Built in 2024, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 1,833 square feet of living area. Days on market: 20.
The townhouse at 360 Grafton Way, Winter Garden, sold July 23, for $389,410. Built in 2022, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 1,691 square feet of living area. Days on market: 19.
HARVEST AT OVATION
The home at 15006 Summer Harvest St., Winter Garden, sold July 26, for $525,652. Built in 2024, it has four bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 2,450 square feet of living area.
HIGHLAND RIDGE
The home at 14138 Frasier St., Winter Garden, sold July 23, for $560,655. Built in 2024, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,082 square feet of living area.
INDEPENDENCE/ SIGNATURE LAKES
The home at 14913 Gaulberry Run, Winter Garden, sold July 23, for $910,000. Built in 2013, it has five bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 3,347 square feet of living area. Days on market: Six.
The home at 5778 Laurel Cherry Ave., Winter Garden, sold July 24, for $525,000. Built in 2016, it has four bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 2,524 square feet of living area. Days on market: 79.
LAKE REAMS TOWNHOMES
The townhouse at 8851 Newmarket Drive, Windermere, sold July 23, for $395,000. Built in 2005, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 1,480 square feet of living area. Days on market: Two.
The home at 10012 Sway St., Winter Garden, sold July 25, for $555,740. Built in 2024, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 2,216 square feet of living area. Days on market: Two.
The home at 10024 Sway St., Winter Garden, sold July 23, for $545,990. Built in 2024, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 2,027 square feet of living area. Days on market: 71.
The home at 9309 Jaywood Road, Winter Garden, sold July 26, for $515,000. Built in 2021, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 2,027 square feet of living area. Days on market: 214.
The home at 16078 Bayou Crest Drive, Winter Garden, sold July 24, for $465,000. Built in 2018, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,685 square feet of living area. Days on market: 126.
LAKES OF WINDERMERE — PEACHTREE
The home at 13418 Hopkinton Court, Windermere, sold July 23, for $690,000. Built in 2005, it has four bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 2,745 square feet of living area. Days on market: 27.
LAKESIDE AT HAMLIN
The home at 5055 Lake Hamlin Trail, Winter Garden, sold July 24, for $535,000. Built in 2022, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,300 square feet of living area. Days on market: 31.
SUMMERLAKE
The home at 7966 Wood Sage Drive, Winter Garden, sold July 23, for $600,000. Built in 2018, it has six bedrooms, three baths and 2,638 square feet of living area. Days on market: 12.
SUMMERPORT
The home at 14119 Bluebird Park Road, Windermere, sold July 25, for $719,000. Built in 2004, it has five bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths and 3,340 square feet of living area. Days on market: 18.
The home at 13857 Amelia Pond Drive, Windermere, sold July 25, for $574,000. Built in 2003, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,353 square feet of living area.
WATERLEIGH
The home at 9869 Beach Port Drive, Winter Garden, sold July 26, for $1,200,000. Built in 2020, it has five bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 3,911 square feet of living area. Days on market: 112.
The home at 10012 Beach Port Drive, Winter Garden, sold July 22, for $900,000. Built in 2019, it has four bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 2,916 square feet of living area. Days on market: 10.
The home at 12687 Charmed Drive, Winter Garden, sold July 25, for $837,671. Built in 2024, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 3,327 square feet of living area. Days on market: 13.
The home at 12693 Charmed Drive, Winter Garden, sold July 26, for $814,276. Built in 2024, it has five bedrooms, four baths and 2,866 square feet of living area. Days on market: 59.
The townhouse at 13299 Pontoon Road, Winter Garden, sold July 25, for $405,000. Built in 2023, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 1,567 square feet of living area. Days on market: 78.
WATERMARK
The home at 14548 Winter Stay Drive, Winter Garden, sold July 26, for $1,185,000. Built in 2018, it has five bedrooms, three baths, two half-baths and 4,337 square feet of living area. Days on market: 54.
WEST LAKE HANCOCK ESTATES
The home at 7412 John Hancock Drive, Winter Garden, sold July 26, for $1,650,000. Built in 2020, it has five bedrooms, five baths and 4,056 square feet of living area. Days on market: 72.
The home at 7527 John Hancock Drive, Winter Garden, sold July 25, for $1,359,000. Built in 2019, it has six bedrooms, four baths, two half-baths and 4,602 square feet of living area. Days on market: Seven.
WESTHAVEN AT OVATION
The home at 15018 Brodie Lane, Winter Garden, sold July 26, for $1,055,830. Built in 2024, it has five bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths and 3,800 square feet of living area. Days on market: 33.
The home at 14084 Lochend Way, Winter Garden, sold July 26, for $710,000. Built in 2024, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,109 square feet of living area. Days on market: 79.
WINDERMERE TRAILS
The home at 8764 Lookout Pointe Drive, Windermere, sold July 26, for $1,030,000. Built in 2015, it has four bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 3,423 square feet of living area. Days on market: 45.
WINDING BAY
The home at 15085 Lebeau Loop, Winter Garden, sold July 24, for $630,000. Built in 2024, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,145 square feet of living area. Days on market: 77.
OCOEE
BORDEAUX
The condo at 1995 Erving Circle, No. 208, Ocoee, sold July 24, for $259,000. Built in 2012, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,234 square feet of living area. Days on market: 88.
The home at 1544 Lake Whitney Drive, Windermere, sold July 24, for $3,100,000. This home is situated on one of the largest lots in the gated Reserve at Belmere community. The sellers were represented by Steve Healy, Corcoran Premier Realty.
Tim Warren
The home at 2810 Bushmead Court, Ocoee, sold July 22, for $732,000. It was the largest transaction in Ocoee from July 22 to 29. The sellers were represented by Chris Winn, Bloom Home Group Realty LLC.
The condo at 1990 Erving Circle No. 304, Ocoee, sold July 25, for $190,000. Built in 2001, it has two bedrooms, one bath and 921 square feet of living area. Days on market: 177.
BRYNMAR
The home at 3543 Meadow Breeze Loop, Ocoee, sold July 25, for $480,000. Built in 2014, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,233 square feet of living area. Days on market: 33.
CRESTWOOD HEIGHTS
The townhouse at 1076 Crestwood Commons Ave., Ocoee, sold July 25, for $315,000. Built in 2006, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,404 square feet of living area. Days on market: 18.
EAGLES LANDING
The home at 2735 Westyn Cove Lane, Ocoee, sold July 23, for $615,000. Built in 2018, it has five bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 3,664 square feet of living area. Days on market: 20.
FOREST OAKS
The home at 500 Shumard Oaks Drive, Ocoee, sold July 22, for $370,000. Built in 1985, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,515 square feet of living area. Days on market: Six.
HAMMOCKS
The home at 804 Rosemist Court, Ocoee, sold July 22, for $467,000. Built in 1991, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,378 square feet of living area. Days on market: Six.
The home at 1004 Ginger Spice Lane, Ocoee, sold July 26, for $481,000. Built in 1990, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,134 square feet of living area. Days on market: 26.
HIDDEN GLEN
The home at 2404 Stricker Drive, Ocoee, sold July 26, for $400,000. Built in 1990, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,751 square feet of living area. Days on market: Six.
LAKE MEADOW LANDING
The townhouse at 1924 Terrapin Road, Ocoee, sold July 22, for $466,489. Built in 2024, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,841 square feet of living area. Days on market: 48.
MEADOWS
The home at 1402 Adair St., Ocoee, sold July 25, for $310,000. Built in 1981, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,250 square feet of living area. Days on market: Nine.
PRAIRIE LAKE VILLAGE
The home at 2316 Mountain Spruce St., Ocoee, sold July 22, for $430,000. Built in 1999, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,492 square feet of living area. Days on market: 28.
PRESERVE AT CROWN POINT
The home at 2810 Bushmead Court, Ocoee, sold July 22, for $732,000. Built in 2019, it has five bedrooms, four baths and 3,202 square feet of living area. Days on market: Six.
WEST ORANGE
GLENMUIR
The home at 6443 Crestmont Glen Lane, Windermere, sold July 25, for $850,000. Built in 2002, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 3,175 square feet of living area. Days on market: Five.
WINDERMERE
KEENE’S POINTE
The home at 9922 Brentwood Court, Windermere, sold July 26, for $1,850,000. Built in 2000, it has six bedrooms, four baths and 4,129 square feet of living area. Days on market: 123.
RESERVE AT BELMERE
The home at 1544 Lake Whitney Drive, Windermere, sold July 24, for $3,100,000. Built in 2007, it has five bedrooms, six-and-one-half baths and 7,370 square feet of living area. Days on market: Five.
RESERVE AT LAKE BUTLER SOUND
The home at 11106 Coniston Way, Windermere, sold July 23, for $2,250,000. Built in 2008, it has five bedrooms, five baths, two half-baths and 5,934 square feet of living area. Days on market: 78.
WINTER GARDEN
AMBERLEIGH
The home at 349 Lake Amberleigh Drive, Winter Garden, sold July 26, for $585,000. Built in 2003, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,006 square feet of living area. Days on market: Four.
BURCHSHIRE
The home at 624 Burch Ave., Winter Garden, sold July 23, for $260,000. Built in 1961, it has three bedrooms, one bath and 1,020 square feet of living area. Days on market: Four.
COURTLEA PARK
The home at 521 Courtlea Cove Ave., Winter Garden, sold July 24, for $685,000. Built in 2007, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,526 square feet of living area. Days on market: Eight.
OXFORD CHASE
The home at 14771 Ellingsworth Lane, Winter Garden, sold July 26, for $900,000. Built in 2018, it has five bedrooms, five baths and 4,294 square feet of living area. Days on market: 14.
The home at 14829 Winkfield Court, Winter Garden, sold July 23, for $759,900. Built in 2019, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,860 square feet of living area. Days on market: Two.
PARK PLACE
The townhouse at 473 Geranium Park Way, Winter Garden, sold July 23, for $925,000. Built in 2019, it has three bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 2,432 square feet of living area. Days on market: 73.
SHOWALTER PARK
The home at 290 Gary Drive, Winter Garden, sold July 23, for $452,000. Built in 1958, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,758 square feet of living area. Days on market: 12.
STONE CREEK
The home at 1817 Eagle Beam Road, Winter Garden, sold July 23, for $420,000. Built in 2002, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,851 square feet of living area. Days on market: 68.
STONEYBROOK WEST
The home at 1947 Black Lake Blvd., Winter Garden, sold July 22, for $1,150,000. Built in 2004, it has four bedrooms, four baths and 3,677 square feet of living area. Days on market: Two.
The home at 13554 Tenbury Wells Way, Winter Garden, sold July 22, for $520,000. Built in 2007, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 1,905 square feet of living area. Days on market: 32.
TUCKER OAKS
The condo at 1554 Broken Oak Drive, No. 19A, Winter Garden, sold July 22, for $288,000. Built in 2007, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,216 square feet of living area. Days on market: 46.
WESTCHESTER PLACE
The home at 618 Foster Ave., Winter Garden, sold July 25, for $319,926. Built in 1961, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,010 square feet of living area. Days on market: 22.
Courtesy photo The home at 7412 John Hancock Drive, Winter Garden, sold July 26, for $1,650,000. It was the largest transaction in Horizon West from July 22 to 29. The sellers were represented by Brooke A. Cangro-DiRoma, Re/Max 200 Realty.
5
1
Olympia High and Orlando Thunder girls water polo player Nina Dahlmann won a gold medal at the U16 Junior Olympics as part of the USA Water Polo team.
2
Foundation Academy pitching duo Michael Surane and Rylee Gibson have announced their college commitments. Surane will be heading to Coker University, while Gibson announced his commitment to The Citadel.
“I am very excited for Rylee and the entire Gibson family,” said Foundation baseball coach Dakoda Grove. “Rylee has transformed his body and dedicated himself to the grind throughout high school, showing up to every morning lift and going to Revolution Sports Performance after practice.”
3
A pair of Windermere High girls volleyball players announced their college commitments. Junior Lily Rodgers will play college volleyball at the University of North Carolina Greensboro, while senior Jordyn Cox — a transfer from Dr. Phillips High will continue her volleyball career at Eastern Florida State College.
4
OARS rower and Olympia senior Tyler Murphy has earned a spot on the USRowing U19 National Team for a second consecutive year. Murphy will be part of the Men’s 8-boat competing at the world championships from Aug. 22 to 25, in Ontario, Canada.
5
Registration is now open for the West Orange Chamber of Commerce’s third annual Stina D’Uva Tour de Chamber bike ride event on Oct. 3 at Home State Brewing Co. The 8.2-mile bike ride loops through the neighborhoods of Horizon West, and participants ride at their own pace. Those without a bike can rent one from Winter Garden Wheel Works closer to the event. Tickets are $30 for individual riders and $100 for a team of four riders. This year’s Tour de Chamber also will have an after party for those unable to participate in the ride. Tickets for the after party are $15 for chamber members and $25 for non-members.
You can register for the event at bit.ly/4duIlKe.
This time, it’s for real
SAM
ALBUQUERQUE SPORTS EDITOR
High school football is officially back in West Orange and Southwest Orange, and the season starts off with a few bangers.
Our Game of the Week will feature the Ocoee Knights traveling to Apopka High for a classic bordering towns district rivalry game. Last season, the Knights gave the Blue Darters all they could handle in a dream game for fans of good defense. Apopka eked out a win over Ocoee by the lowest possible score, 2-0.
In other action, Horizon High hosts Olympia High in the only game this week between two area teams. The rush-heavy Hawks offense will look to take advantage of the young Titans defense that replaced all of its starters. Both Olympia and Horizon hope Week One will be a bounce-back one after difficult preseason outings last week.
KICKOFF CLASSIC
In the only matchup between two West Orange and Southwest Orange teams, the West Orange Warriors topped the Horizon Hawks, 36-5 Friday, Aug. 16, at Raymond Screws Stadium in the Kickoff Classic.
West Orange was led by athlete Brian Dillard, who scored at both the quarterback spot and from wide receiver — catching a pass from freshman back up quarterback AJ Chung. But the play on the field wasn’t what most excited Warriors coach Geno Thompson following his team’s performance.
“It’s going to be a fun year,” he said.
“It’s probably one of the best years at West Orange as far as culture goes because of this group of kids. This group of seniors are such a great group of people that it just really makes football fun.”
The regular season will open with
two big contests Ocoee at Apopka and Horizon vs. Olympia.
Lake Buena Vista High football’s Joshua Eady is a two-way athlete who is helping lead the Vipers’ new culture. Page 2B.
The West Orange High student section brought the noise
West Orange receiver and place-holder Edison Delgado rolled out during a fake field goal attempt and completed the pass for the two-point conversion.
Photos by Sam Albuquerque
Horizon High defensive back Hamzeh Ghassemi warmed up on the field before the game.
Horizon High running back Kaio Oliveria received a touch pass in the Hawks backfield.
West Orange High running back Nehemiah Burgess carried the ball.
Sam Albuquerque Foundation Academy’s Rylee Gibson will play for The Citadel.
Joshua Eady
As a speedy two-way player for the Lake Buena Vista High football team — at wide receiver and defensive back — Joshua Eady is going to be a big factor for coach Brant Peddy’s Vipers in his first season as part of the varsity squad. And don’t let Eady’s 5-foot7 stature fool you: The sophomore is tough as nails and, as a weapon for the Lake Buena Vista offense, he’s quick as can be and has the ability to turn a short screen pass into a long gain at the blink of an eye. Expect the Vipers’ young gun to make a name for himself in 2024.
How does it feel to be named Athlete of the Week?
It feels great that coach nominated me for the honor and privilege to be the Athlete of the Week.
What do you like the most about football?
What I like most is scoring touchdowns or stopping a play.
What is your goal for this season, for yourself and the team?
My goal is to help get this team a trophy. For myself it’s to be the best athlete I can be. For my team, I want us to see our hard work pay off.
What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned from football? I’ve learned to be more disciplined.
Who is your favorite athlete?
Why?
USC wide receiver Zachariah Branch because of his ability to explode off the ball and accelerate.
Is there someone you try to model your game after?
Jerry Jeudy, Zachariah Branch and Tank Dell.
Favorite football memory?
Catching an interception.
What is your go-to pre-game hype song?
“Skrilla” by Kodak Black.
What is your favorite nonsports hobby? I like to draw.
What is your favorite subject in school?
English, because I like reading books.
What are three things you would take with you to a deserted island?
A hammock, lots of food and water.
What is your favorite movie?
“Coach Carter.” It helped me realize how important teamwork and discipline are.
If you could have dinner with one person — dead or alive — who would it be?
God, I want to have a conversation with Him.
If you could go back in time to a specific period in history, when and where would you go?
I’d want to go to the start of time. I would want to see how everything started.
Looking back, what piece of advice would you give your younger self?
Don’t take things for granted.
If you could ask your future self a question, what would it be?
How’s life going?
Who is your favorite superhero?
Batman, because he is very consistent at saving the city.
Who is your favorite supervilThe Joker, because he is very
If you could have any superpower, what would it be and I would want the ability to read minds, just to know what
If you could travel to any place in the world, where would you go and why?
The Bahamas for a great vacation, and Los Angeles because of all the net-
If you could be an animal for a day, which one would you be and why?
Dog. I would want to know what they’re thinking. What is your most controversial food Ketchup is nasty. Does pineapple belong on
SAM ALBUQUERQUE
SPIKE SEASON: Girls volleyball is back
To get you ready for the return to the court, here are some of the top storylines, teams and players to watch this season.
SAM ALBUQUERQUE
SPORTS EDITOR
The 2024 girls high school volleyball season in West Orange and Southwest Orange, yet again, will bring title-contending teams, college-level players and a heap of interesting storylines to keep an eye on. To get ready for the season, here are three things you need to keep an eye on in 2024.
RIVALRY RENEWED
Last season saw something that had never before happened in the history of West Orange and Southwest Orange girls volleyball: Olympia High beat Windermere High. The Titans actually ended up beating the Wolverines four times last season and established themselves as the top team in the area in 2023.
In 2024, with Olympia returning most of its historic team and Windermere revamping its program, the rivalry isn’t just for bragging rights anymore. The two programs are favorites to fight for the spot atop the area’s girls volleyball throne.
On the Olympia side, coach Semei Tello Ponce returns for his fifth season in charge of the Titans’ program, and, despite losing his top outside hitter Laney Perdue, he expects Olympia to make a lot of noise this season and maybe even a deep playoff run. Leading the way for the Titans will be juniors Madison Wehr and Milana Holland.
For Windermere, a new coach, the return of most of its key players from a team that finished with a 16-7 record and the transfer of hitter Jordyn Cox from Dr. Phillips High means the Wolverines are ready to fight Olympia for their area crown once again in 2024. Juniors Lily Rodgers and Mia Dilorenzo should be key players yet again for Windermere.
NEW LEADERS
Coaching turnover in high school sports is nothing new, but in 2024, three high-profile area schools made changes at their respective head coach spots: Windermere, Dr. Phillips and The First Academy. Here’s what you need to know about the sport’s new coaches as they take over their new programs.
Dr. Phillips, Hannah Sexton. A Houston native with more than 15 years of combined playing and coaching experience, Sexton has spent the last three seasons as a coach at Winter Park Volleyball Club. This will be her first high school head coaching position.
The First Academy, Amanda Serpa. The former coach at Windermere Prep, Serpa most recently served as coach and director of Driven Volleyball club in West Orange.
”Coach Serpa demonstrates a healthy relationship with Christ, is
PLAYERS TO WATCH
West Orange and Southwest Orange produce some of the top girls volleyball players in the state each season. 2024 should be no different, here’s a few names to keep your eye on throughout this season.
CLAUDIA BARBEY, WINDERMERE PREP
A two-year starter for the Lakers, junior Claudia Barbey had 363 assists, 56 aces and 197 digs last season. Look out for the Windermere Prep setter to eclipse the 1,000-assist career mark this season. She starts the 2024 with 813 assists.
GWENYTH BERRY, WEST ORANGE
After three seasons at Horizon, where senior Gwenyth Berry racked up 527 career kills, The Citadel commit has transferred to West Orange High for her senior season. In her final year as a Hawk, Berry had 258 kills, 23 aces, 148 digs and 242 serves received.
LETICIA DOS SANTOS, LAKE BUENA VISTA
In 2022, as a sophomore, Leticia Dos Santos broke onto the scene with 342 assists and 34 aces. Coming into her senior season for the Vipers, she will be vital to their success from the setter position.
very competent in enhancing player performance, builds trusting relationships, and communicates effectively and efficiently,” TFA Director of Athletics Jeff Conaway said in a prepared statement. “Coach Serpa will bring great value to our school and our volleyball program.”
Windermere, Nicole Vinas. With plenty of coaching experience and a talented team, Vinas hopes to return the Wolverines back to championship form and integrate herself in the Windermere High community.
“I am so excited to be a part of the Windermere community,” Vinas said. “I have been coaching for the last nine years, and I’m looking forward to a great experience here at Windermere High School.”
HALEY HIGGINS, FOUNDATION ACADEMY
As a freshman last year for the Lions, Haley Higgins made a name for herself by filling up the stat sheets. She had 215 kills, 46 aces, 45 total blocks and 100 digs last season.
LILY RODGERS, WINDERMERE
Junior Lily Rodgers, a University of North Carolina Greensboro commit, may be the top returning outside hitter in the area. In a breakout sophomore season, Rodgers racked up 274 kills top go along with 45 aces, 13 total blocks, 199 digs and 331 serves received.
SAVVY SOTTO, HORIZON
The Hawks defensive specialist, senior Savvy Sotto has started for Horizon for the past three season — recording 229 digs and 322 serves received last season, and 100 career aces. At the libero spot this season, expect Sotto to finish her superb career by leading the Hawks to successful 2024 season.
MADISON WEHR, OLYMPIA
Having already eclipsed the 1,000-assists career mark last season (comes into 2024 with 1,138 assists), junior Madison Wehr has the chance to establish herself as an all-time great Titan over the next two seasons. Last year, she dished out 725 assists, had 43 aces, 38 kills and 244 digs.
Olympia’s Madison Wehr set the ball behind to her teammate.
Courtesy David Jester
THE TRENCHES: TFA football’s linemen set tone for 2024
Both o ensive and defensive lines led the way in The First Academy’s Kicko Classic win.
SAM ALBUQUERQUE SPORTS EDITOR
As cliche as it sounds, the game of football is won in the trenches. If you can protect the quarterback and establish the run with your offensive line, points will be scored. If you can hit the opposition’s quarterback and stop them from running the football effectively, points will not be scored on your team.
If you can do that on both sides of the ball, you can win championships. That’s the plan at The First Academy this football season.
The Royals will get their first big test this Friday, when they travel to Nashville, Tennessee, to face Lipscomb Academy.
In the Royals’ Kickoff Classic game against Leto High at Warden Stadium, everything went according to plan.
“Every good football team understands being able to run the football and stopping the run is important,” TFA coach Jeff Conaway said. “We say, ‘In football that we throw the football to score and run the football to win.’ The same is true on defense. If you cannot stop the run, it’s going to be a challenge. So, I really believe the way our offense and defensive line have practiced. I think they’re ahead of schedule, as far as their conditioning right now. I really think that gives us an advantage, and it makes us really dangerous moving forward.”
Led by its massive offensive line and tenacious defensive line, TFA beat Leto by a whopping 77-19 score.
“When it comes to setting the tone it starts with us on the offensive line, we have to set the tone,” TFA offensive lineman Chancellor Barclay said. “When it comes to the snap, when it comes to doing our assignments, everything, because at the end of the day, when we make those blocks, we are giving the time to the quarterback, we’re giving that time to our running backs. … We have to set the tone from the first play, because
that’s going to set up the whole game for use. When we do that, you saw it on that field, we set the tone.”
IRON SHARPENS IRON
The Royals set the tone early and often in the Kickoff Classic — taking a 27-0 lead in the first quarter and a 63-12 lead by the end of the first half.
If you ask the Royals why they got off to such a quick and massive lead, the linemen will tell you they were raring to go.
“We’ve been going against (one another) for way too long this offseason, so if you ask anybody on either line, we all would tell you we just needed someone else to hit,”
Barclay said. “We needed someone else to go up against and this was our opportunity. So, now that we got that opportunity, we can grow from it for the regular season.”
Barclay and the other linemen —
Noah Devine, Sean Kentish, Reed Ramsier and Jarvis Williams — spent the offseason going toe-to-toe with their defensive counterparts — led by Alex Willis, Blaze Jones, DJ Whiley and Jeau-Pierre Furtado — and, although, they were ready to compete against someone else on Friday night, those battles in the spring and summer shaped what the 2024 season will look like.
“Those guys have sharpened each other,” Conaway said. “We’ve gotten better on both the offensive line and defensive lines because of what we do with one-on-ones during practice. And so we say iron sharpens iron, those guys definitely have been doing that.”
INSIDE OUT
Conaway’s offensive identity is no secret. He wants to bury teams with screens and lateral runs over and over again until the opposition is so focused on moving left and right that holes start to form vertically.
“We want to be a team that does stretch the football field horizontally and vertically,” Conaway said.
“One of the things that we take a lot of practice time in doing is pushing the football down the field.”
To be able to push the ball down the field in this manner, the offensive line must be able to do two things. First, it must be able to pass protect well enough to allow the quarterback
enough time to make those throws.
Second, the line needs to be athletic enough to get out in space and block to make their screen and run game work as planned. That opportunity to do that second part is what makes the linemen’s eyes light up.
“It’s the best thing,” Barclay said. “We ran so many screen passes today, and the main thing everybody on the line was excited about was getting out in space and getting to hit somebody. We all just want to get out there and hit somebody and drive them all the way down the field. That’s what opens up the offense for us. Because we have linemen who are athletic and can not only block but also finish their blocks in a pancake to make sure they’re clearing the way for the ball carrier it makes the receiver’s job easier. It makes the running back’s job easier, and it opens up our offense.”
REAPING THE REWARDS
That concept of the offense being built on what the linemen do is just as true on the defensive side of the ball as well — if the defensive line can attack the opposition and disrupt its timing, it opens up the rest of the defense to be used in myriad ways to make it impossible to score enough points to be competitive.
The Royals’ defensive front did just that against Leto, recording 12 tackles for a loss, two sacks and forcing a fumble. That sort of disruption led directly to TFA forcing three turnovers and stifling the Falcons’ attack. And although there are not many stats to quantify what the offensive linemen’s play produced, the main player the group is tasked with protecting knows to give the big uglies up front their proper due.
“I enjoy playing behind such a good offensive line because they open up everything for me,” Royals quarterback Salomon Georges Jr. said. “I don’t have to worry about any pressure getting near me. They communicate on the line really well and they make my job easier by being able to pick up blocks that they need to do and execute their job.”
TFA’s offense scored eight touchdowns overall and six rushing and gained a total of 377 yards in its preseason game — and a lot of the credit for those scores goes to the guys in the trenches.
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This annual guide provides important information about the West Orange communities of Winter Garden, Oakland, Ocoee, Dr. Phillips, Windermere, Gotha and Horizon West including the history, area maps, hospitals, utility companies and local leaders.
History of each municipality, interviews with local leaders and a calendar of can’t-miss
Round-up of local activities and ways to get
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
Royals defensive lineman Alex Willis got in the opposition back eld for a sack.
Photos by Sam Albuquerque
TFA o ensive lineman Chancellor Barclay (No.
GERALYNNE JOHNSON HOPE/LEGACY CHARTER SCHOOL
Geralynne Johnson is affectionately known as Mama-J at Hope/Legacy Charter School. She is the registrar for grades seven through 12 and enrolls students, verifies attendance and inputs schedules.
“The work that she does … is tireless and thankless, yet she never complains and always has a positive attitude,” Principal Maurio Medley said. “Beyond this, she is known for being a safe place where teachers and students can go to talk or get a snack if they run out of food before they run out of the day. She embodies our school’s principles of learning, encouragement, consistency and kindness. She always puts others before herself.”
What brought you to your school?
I had been at home taking care of my grandchildren, and they were heading off to school, and their needs changed.
It was recommended that I reach out to Hope and Legacy charter schools. I emailed Crystal Yoakum, our CEO, who I had known for quite a while, and she said I was sent from God, as she was praying for the right person to be at a temporary satellite campus. I am a giver and love to give back; what better place than at the best school in our county and one headed by Crystal? I love my work family, as that is what we are — a family.
What do you love most about your school?
For me, it’s the familial environment we foster there for (one another) and, most definitely, our amazing students.
Everyone there truly wants to be there. Our principal, Maurio Medley, is an exemplary leader who mentors and is such a positive man who definitely cares for each and every one of us.
What is the most rewarding part of your job?
I love my job and enjoy the continual
REPORT CARD
POSITION: Registrar TIME AT SCHOOL: 15 years
learning and growth it provides for me. To be honest, I have become Mama-J to quite a few of our students over the years, and I love watching them grow and mature both personally and educationally. It is quite rewarding, especially for my heart.
Who influences you?
There have been many in my lifetime; my dad (he passed when I was 10); my husband, Craig (he passed two years ago); and, in many ways, my daughters and grandchildren — seeing life and all it has to offer through their eyes.
Who was your favorite teacher when you were in school and why?
Her name was Miss Bouchard, my fourth-grade teacher. I found out the first week of school she lived on the next street from me, and we started to walk to school together. She was an older woman, and no one cared for her — making fun of her hair and how she dressed, even her briefcase she carried to school. I loved school, and she loved teaching, and this brought us together. I’ve never forgotten her.
What is your favorite children’s book and why?
I have always loved the Little Golden Books. I read them to my daughters until they could read them to me. Then in time, I started to do the same with my grandchildren. Memories are priceless to me!
What do you like to do in your spare time?
I enjoy my time with my family, as well as Mama-J-and-grandchildren
time. I have a doodle named Pearl, and she brings me such joy and companionship. I am also an avid cruiser.
If you could only listen to three bands or artists, who would they be and why?
Jim Croce for sure, as he wrote my wedding song, “Time in a Bottle.” Barry Manilow — yes, I’m that old; his songs have meaning and heart. The Rolling Stones, as this was my first concert and I was in eighth grade. If my mother had only known the band, I would never have been given permission to attend.
What was your go-to lunch and favorite snack as an elementary student?
Lunch was from a fast-food restaurant named Roy Rogers; we didn’t have school lunches in Catholic school back then. My snack was chocolate milk and cookies; kindergarten was the best. What is your favorite holiday and why?
For me, although I love them all for various reasons, I absolutely love Christmas — a time of giving and happiness. It started when my girls were young and my husband dressed as Santa Claus on Christmas Eve; the tradition carried on to our grandchildren. A new tradition my girls came up with was for Mrs. Claus to begin the tradition of visiting our family and friends’ families on Christmas Eve at my daughter’s home — bringing all the young ones their Christmas pj’s. A joyful, yet emotional time that will carry on!
Who was your best friend when you were in school and why? Are you still in touch?
I had two, Linda and Eileen. We became a group, as we didn’t fit in with so many others for various reasons. Linda and I still touch base every year at Christmas, as we are more than 1,000 miles apart.
— AMY QUESINBERRY
OBSERVER SCHOOL ZONE
Horizon High seniors personalize spaces
The seniors of Horizon High School donned their creative and artistic hats Saturday, Aug. 17, and converged on the school’s parking lot to make their parking spaces their own. Cartoon characters, Disney characters, movie quotes, hobbies and more were represented in the elaborate paint jobs.
— AMY QUESINBERRY
THOMAS LIGHTBODY | TK PHOTOGRAPHY
Iggy Collazo Callie Wane, left, Audrey Miller and Marina Gotay worked hard on their parking spots.
Rescue mission
The Orange County Fire Rescue Department currently is conducting water rescue training through the end of September on Lake Bessie in the town of Windermere.
ANNABELLE SIKES
NEWS EDITOR
Through the end of September, the Orange County Fire Rescue Department is conducting water rescue training for the entire department Monday through Friday on Lake Bessie in the town of Windermere.
With the busy summer season in full swing, Brandon Allen, lieutenant of Water Rescue Programs for the OCFRD, said the department wants to make sure everyone is properly trained to respond to any type of water rescue emergency.
Allen said the department tries to get in large-scale training such as this every two years, but when it comes to rescue divers, those individuals train with him throughout the year, because they have to complete 24 hours of in-water training a year.
Allen said there are 87 square miles of water in Orange County alone, and the department tries to utilize different locations for training so rescuers can have experience with a wide range of areas to which they could be responding. He said the team gets called to three to four water rescue calls a month in the county.
“It’s quite a lot when you think about us being a landlocked county; it’s not like we’re on the ocean,” he said. “We’re trying to impress upon our firefighters that these calls can happen anytime and anywhere. This training saves lives.”
ADDING TOOLS TO THE TOOL KIT
The OCFRD alone includes more than 1,500 members.
Allen, who knew he wanted to be a firefighter since he was young, has been with the department for
almost 21 years, although he grew up in southern California.
As he was preparing to enter the field, he said, being hired as a firefighter in the area was very competitive, and he decided to make the move to Orlando to pursue his career.
“I didn’t really think about Orange County as a department at the time, but now being here for close to 21 years, I have been able to see the benefits of being with such a large department,”
he said. “Here at OCFRD, we like to say we’re an all-hazards department, so when you call 911 it doesn’t matter what your emergency is, because we’ve got people who are going to be able to take care of it. A lot of small departments, while they’re great departments, don’t have the ability to have a 200-person dive-rescue team. They don’t have the ability to have a team that’s specialized to rescue people off the Orlando Eye. Those
are only things you get with a big department, and I think that’s one of the things that has kept me here and kept my interest for so long. You can specialize in so many different things, and there’s lots of opportunities to learn. I couldn’t have picked a better spot to fall into.”
Skills taught during the training include rescue boat operations, response to drowning emergencies and a simulated car in the water.
Firefighters also are learning how to use side-scan sonar for detecting and imaging objects in the water, practicing using a LUCAS device to provide
mechanical chest compressions on manikins, and learning about different types of tourniquets used to apply pressure to a limb or extremity to create ischemia or stop the flow of blood.
In addition, Allen said the training team has been focusing on educating the firefighters on seven new marine tandem units, which the county invested in this year to increase its fleet of boats.
“In years past, we would mostly just focus on the practical skills, and EMS would be a side component that we wouldn’t really address,” he said. “We realized that every call, no matter
if it’s a fire call or water rescue call, it’s an EMS call, because there’s usually a patient involved. We’ve now incorporated EMS into every single one of our drills. It doesn’t matter if we’ve got the best divers and the best rescuers in the world and we make all these efforts to get the victims out onto the land if our EMS and our patient care isn’t where it needs to be.”
Juan Rodriguez, who has been with the OCFRD for 22 years, said the biggest lesson he learned was the many different tactics that can be used on a water rescue call, such as passing command, if needed, for a rescue attempt.
“It was also great to have an EMS component in the mix, and the setup of practice stations was also helpful,” he said. “Great class, and I feel that it can be beneficial to have this training more often.”
Amber Lugo, who has been with the OCFRD for 10 years, agreed the training is essential.
“Training scenarios like this emphasize the importance of readiness and quick rescue efforts,” she said. “Orange County has an abundance of resources and equipment available, and it’s our job to utilize them efficiently.”
Although Allen said the department is throwing a lot of information at the firefighters in a series of long and hot hours on the lake, the skills being taught are invaluable when it comes to emergency situations.
“Even if they just take away two or three things to add to their tool box, then I feel like we’ve done our job here,” he said. “I trust that when they get these calls that they’ll remember and be more confident in their abilities to do the job that people trust us to do.”
The entire Orange County Fire Rescue department is expected to participate in the water rescue training at one point or another.
Ethan Brodrecht helped to rescue one of the manikin victims during the live training scenario.
Firefighter practiced lifting a victim out of the lake and strapping him on to a floating rescue device.
Firefighters practiced using a LUCAS device to provide mechanical chest compressions on a manikin.
Photos by Annabelle Sikes
Kevin Prunyi helped train the firefighters to use side-scan sonar out on the lake.
DANNY MINOR SR.
DIED AUG. 15, 2024.
Danny Minor Sr., born Oct. 8, 1956, in Winter Garden, Florida, passed away peacefully on Aug. 15, 2024. A lifelong resident of the Ocoee-Winter Garden area, Danny was a beloved son, brother, father, uncle and friend. He was known for his deep love of music and his passion for bringing people together. Danny’s home was often the heart of joyful gatherings, filled with laughter, music and good times.
Danny was preceded in death by his father, Miles Lloyd Minor, and his mother, Ruth Schultz Minor. Their love and guidance shaped the kind and generous man that Danny became.
He leaves behind his son, Daniel Minor Jr. (Emily); and two cherished grandchildren, Abigail and Michael. Danny is also survived by his sisters, Patricia Shkoler (Dave), Beverly Willis (Gary) and Heidi Walker; his brother, Paul Minor (Edith); and 10 nieces and nephews. His family, along with many friends, will miss him dearly.
Generosity was at the core of who Danny was. He was always the first to lend a hand, offering help to friends and strangers alike, no matter the circumstance. His kindness and willingness to support others left a lasting impact on everyone fortunate enough to know him.
Danny’s legacy is one of love, community and a life well-lived. He will be deeply missed by his extended family, friends and all who had the pleasure of knowing him. His spirit will forever remain in the music he loved, the stories shared at gatherings and the countless lives he touched.
A Celebration of Life is planned for Oct. 5. Additional details will be shared soon.
Local graduates embark on mission trip
Nine recent graduates of West Orange, Windermere and Horizon high schools have decided to put their lives on hold for 18 to 24 months to serve missions for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
ANNABELLE SIKES
NEWS EDITOR
Nine local high school graduates have decided to put their lives on hold for 18 to 24 months starting this fall to serve missions for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Graduates from West Orange, Windermere and Horizon high schools will teach people about Jesus Christ and perform humanitarian service in many different places across the world, including Brazil, Honduras, Guatemala and the United States.
The church has more than 72,000 missionaries currently serving worldwide, and 23 of those currently serving are young adult missionaries from the Horizon West area.
Maya Ahlstrom, an 18-year-old graduate from Horizon High, is especially excited about her mission call to Western Honduras.
Her mother, Delmar Ahlstrom, immigrated to the United States from San Pedros Sula, Honduras, when she was 19 years old to learn English at LaGuardia College.
Delmar Ahlstrom is thrilled to see her daughter has been assigned to serve in the specific area of Honduras where she grew up.
“I feel immense gratitude that Maya has the opportunity to pay it forward by serving the people of Honduras,” she said.
Maya Alhstrom’s service in Honduras will involve some big sacrifices in addition to putting school on hold. She will be giving up many modern comforts for 18 months, including hot water, air-conditioning, and having access to a washer and dryer.
Delmar Ahlstrom grew up washing her clothes in a wash basin and line-drying her clothes. The climate of Honduras is similar to Florida, hot and humid, which makes the lack of air-conditioning difficult.
“In Honduras, people eat soup for dinner on Sundays, even when it is 90 degrees outside,” Delmar Ahlstrom said. “Maya will also become accustomed to eating rice and beans, even for breakfast, because people do not eat cereal there.”
Missionaries for the church do not choose where they will serve. Instead, they apply with “mission
papers,” listing languages they speak and medical conditions they have. They are then assigned to a specific mission, in one of 150 countries, and potentially assigned to learn one of 60 languages.
Some missionaries end up serving in remote areas of third-world countries, which can leave many missionaries feeling a bit bewildered, especially at first. Missionaries know they will face some rejection, culture shock, homesickness and potential difficulty with learning foreign languages, but they are motivated by their faith to press forward and serve.
These missionaries and their families also pay their own way. Many missionaries save up during high school in preparation for missionary service, making significant financial sacrifices.
“Having so many of our Horizon West area young adults choose to serve the Lord is such a special blessing,” Gary Hansen, stake president who oversees 13 congregations in and around Horizon West, said. “I know their missionary service will bless those they teach and serve.”
Missionaries from various parts of the United States performed community service at Well of Hope in Winter Garden.
Courtesy photos
West Orange High School graduate Joshua Hanson serving with other missionaries in Japan.
THE WAYS WE WERE FROM THE WINTER GARDEN HERITAGE FOUNDATION
95 years ago
The game of horseshoes was introduced at Lakeview High School because “it is a very interesting game to play for many reasons. First, it is a clean game and a good game to have at school, because after one gets through playing, he isn’t hot and his nerves aren’t too torn up. When he goes to class, he can put his mind on his work. But if he played a game of football, he would be hot and nervous and couldn’t study.”
70 years ago
The ground was broken for the erection of a combination church building and parish house for the Episcopal Church of the Messiah in Winter Garden. The church building was to be erected at the corner of Woodland and Tilden streets and was to be in the cathedral style of architecture. The seating capacity would be for about 120.
55 years ago
Two portable classrooms were added at Dillard Street Elementary School for the fall term. Additional classrooms also were placed at Winter Garden Elementary School. Increased enrollment made this move necessary by the Orange County School Board. In the “beauty horoscope,” astrologers predicted the current Age of Aquarius would be one of joy, science and accomplishment.
50 years ago
After 35 years on South Main Street, W.T. Zeigler Furniture Company marked the beginning of a new chapter in its business life as it held the official grand opening of its new store on South Dillard Street.
Guests gathered in 1999 for a birthday celebration for Alice Blaine at Shirley Smith’s Trailside Antiques, once located at 12 W. Plant St. in Winter Garden (today’s Bond Building, home of Three Birds Cafe). Attendees include, front row, from left: unidentified, Blaine, Ann Harrell, Kim Dryfoos’ son and Kim Dryfoos; and back row, from left: Kim Rose, unidentified, Shirley Smith, Rod Reeves, Chris Severance and Linda Severance. Most of the revelers had ties to the Winter Garden Heritage Foundation as directors, volunteers and docents.
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.
45 years ago
The “Flying Ambassadors” from the Windermere Rotary Club made another trip to attend the Rotary meeting of the Hiltonhead Island, South Carolina, Rotary group. Members piloting for this trip were Rotary President Bill Colburn, Bob Pleus and Tom Watkins. Attending with them were members Jim Buttram, Tony Hicks, Gene Murphy, John Oswalt, Hugh Panton and Ulay Thompson.
35 years ago
The grand opening of the Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women was held, coinciding with Palmer’s 60th birthday. The new facility, on the corner of Kuhl and Miller streets in Orlando, was built as part of the Orlando Regional Medical Center’s downtown complex. It included a child-size Disney’s Cinderella Castle in the atrium.
After three days of hearings, in
which evidence was presented by both the defense and prosecuting attorneys, Orange County Circuit Judge Gary L. Formet upheld the death sentence of Tommy Zeigler, the man convicted of killing four people in his Winter Garden furniture store on Christmas Eve 1975.
THROWBACK
THURSDAY
AUGUST 22, 1974
Prior to 1974, if you wanted to shop at Montgomery Ward, you had to drive to John Young Parkway and Highway 50, in Pine Hills. Fifty years ago, the department store arrived closer to home with the opening of a location in the Tri-City Shopping Center, in Winter Garden. This was the place to shop if you needed a modern console stereo with four-channel chassis changer, receiver and speakers. Your cost? Only $339.88. For $369.88, TV watchers could walk away with a 25-inch
DOING THE SPLITS by Daniel Hrynick, edited by Jeff Chen
