New homeless law in effect
In their time
need
dial 3-1-1 or call (407) 836-3111. LYNX will provide free service to shelter locations. For important information on what to bring to a shelter, visit ocfl.net/ shelters.
HORIZON WEST TO HOST PET FEST
Attention pet-lovers: Horizon West will host is first Pet Fest this weekend.
Horizon West Happenings’ Pet Fest is scheduled to take place at 10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 12, in the Hamlin Green Space, 14111 Shoreside Way, Winter Garden.
This event is designed to bring together pet owners, animal-lovers and the entire community for a day of fun. The inaugural event will feature local vendors, pet products and services, adoption drives, and much more. Attendees also will enjoy fun activities and contests, such as agility courses and giveaways.
As of press time, this event was still scheduled as planned.
EDGEWOOD SADDLES UP FOR DINNER, AUCTION
Edgewood Children’s Ranch is saddling up for its Country Round-Up Dinner and Auction. The annual event takes place at 6 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 11, at Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center, 6000 W. Osceola Parkway, Kissimmee. The evening will feature a reception, silent auction, delicious dinner and, of course, the always-entertaining live auction. For more, visit edgewoodranch.com.
The pile of debris cleared from Steinhatchee resident Betty Green’s home was enormous.
Left: Horizon West resident Kayla Bushman helped to knock down one of the walls of Steinhatchee resident Betty Green’s home.
Annabelle Sikes
Volunteers from the Orlando West Stake Center of The Church of Jesus Christ of the Latter-day Saints took a picture in front of Steinhatchee resident Minnie Pope’s home with her neighbor, Ken Pender.
Courtesy photo Horizon West resident Corbin Clouser, center, flew essential supplies and resources to those in need in North Carolina.
New law will affect local homeless
The Florida law prohibits people from sleeping in parks and other public places.
AMY QUESINBERRY
It is now illegal to be homeless in Florida.
A new law went into effect Tuesday, Oct. 1, making it illegal for homeless people to sleep outside in public places. House Bill 1365 states this prohibits camping on streets, sidewalks and beaches, and in parks, and The Associated Press news agency calls it one of the most strict anti-homelessness measures in the nation.
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signed the bill into law in March. He called the measure a way to keep streets and neighborhoods safe.
“Florida will not allow homeless encampments to intrude on its citizens or undermine their quality of life like we see in states like New York and California,” DeSantis said in a news release issued Oct. 1. “The legislation I signed today upholds our commitment to law and order while also ensuring homeless individuals have the resources they need to get back on their feet.”
Under the new law, cities and counties are required to provide temporary shelter, where individuals experiencing homelessness are to receive drug and mental-health treatment. The press release said the state has the enforcement tools needed to ensure local governments comply.
Scott Billue, the founder of Matthew’s Hope homeless ministry, said this law affects thousands of people he works with on a daily basis in West Orange and Brevard counties.
Locally, Matthew’s Hope serves homeless folks from mainly Winter Garden, Ocoee and Apopka through its offices and ministry in Winter Garden. They are men, women, young families, seniors and people who grew up in West Orange.
Now in its 15th year, Matthew’s Hope provides a food pantry, haircuts, laundry services, mental and physical health services, a workshop, transitional housing, a preschool, and more.
“All it’s done is make things harder for us,” Billue said of the new law. “We knew how to find people easier. People are trying to hide more than ever before. What a lot of people don’t understand is these homeless people work, and when they’re arrested, they get a no-show for work and lose their job.”
In years past, the homeless population lived in various camps in the woods, but most of these camps no longer exist.
“What you are going to see is a lot more exposure, because they are being pushed to the streets, where they were hiding
before,” Billue said. “There are a lot of people sleeping behind buildings, any place that will give them a little shelter from the elements, whether that be the sun or the rain.”
SHELTER ALTERNATIVES
The law also provides alternatives for when homeless shelters have reached max capacity. It directs the Department of Children and Families to authorize temporary campsites — for up to one year — that maintain sanitation, including access to clean and operable restrooms and running water; provide access to substance abuse and mental-health treatment resources through coordination with the regional managing entity; and prohibit illegal substance use and alcohol use on the property and enforce this prohibition.
Furthermore, residents, business owners and the state can sue municipalities that fail to enforce the state ban starting Jan. 1, 2025.
“The extreme version of this — but completely possible — is you’re having a cup of coffee at a coffee shop, a homeless person sits on a public bench and falls asleep,” Billue said. “You decide to call the police. They’re supposed to have two options: They can connect them with the local service that will provide housing, and the second option is being arrested.
“I don’t believe that all police officers will enforce this, but I believe a lot of them will,” he said. “If the police
officer does nothing about it, in your eyes, you can sue the municipality for not addressing the homeless situation in your area. … It’s the most unthought-out thing I’ve ever seen.”
MORE THAN A VILLAGE
U.S. Rep. Daniel Webster has called this a local issue, Billue said, but local municipalities don’t have the money to address this on their own.
“It’s going to take state, county and local coming together with the private sector, like Matthew’s Hope, or whoever they choose,” Billue said.
“My feelings are, if people are criminals, then for God sakes, arrest them,” he said. “But, homelessness should not be a crime.”
The state budgeted $30 million to help municipalities enact the law and provide the homeless with mentalhealth and substance-abuse treatment, The AP reported, with the biggest county allotments at $600,000 each.
The Annual Homelessness Assessment Report to Congress from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development estimated the number of Americans experiencing homelessness surged to about 653,000 in last year, the highest level on record since reporting began in 2007.
According to the report, Florida has the thirdhighest number of homeless
people, at nearly 31,000, behind California, at 181,399, and New York, at 103,200.
WHO ARE THE HOMELESS?
“There’s been talk about looking for a shelter, and there has been talks with Matthew’s Hope about maybe running that,” Billue said. “I think you need accountability and also need to understand the demographic. Right now, the fast-growing demographic is seniors and then senior women, because they typically outlive the men. They have or had pensions but when the spouse died, the pension was cut off or part of it was taken away. …But when you cut the finances off by more than half, these senior women are living in their car, and they’re not getting proper rest and nutrition.”
Another fast-growing demographic, he said, is the homeless people with physical and mental disabilities who are outliving their caregivers and end up on the streets.
The third-fastest growing homeless population is young families who cannot afford housing.
“I’m not a fan of Section 8 housing, but we have to get back to the housing that everyday people can afford,” Billue said.
Jon C. Williams, Winter Garden city manager, said city officials will do what they can to work with the homeless population.
“It is not our intent to criminalize homelessness,” he said. “Currently, when we encounter folks, we actually offer resources and help to them as they may need. Last year, we brought on a fulltime staff member to do community outreach services, and we most recently entered into a grant agreement with the Hope Center as an extension of those services.”
Breast Cancer Awareness
Walk to Wellness Celebration
Saturday, October 19, 2024
8:00 am – 11:00 am, walk begins at 8:00 am
Current patients, caregivers, survivors and anyone interested in breast health are welcome to join us at this walk.
Followed by a continental breakfast, guests are also invited to join in on a breast health discussion with Jeffrey Richard Smith, MD, a surgeon with the Breast Care Center at the Orlando Health Cancer Institute. During the event, we will also offer breast screening mammograms in the Outpatient Services Lobby.
Orlando Health – Health Central Hospital Walking Path 10000
Scan the QR Code to learn more 2573380
Hosted in partnership with Orlando Health Cancer Institute – Ocoee, Roper YMCA, Healthy West Orange and the Ocoee Police Department.
Happy 45th, Roper Y
The Roper Family YMCA opened in 1979 as the E.M. Tanner Memorial YMCA.
AMY QUESINBERRY
COMMUNITY EDITOR
Before the Roper YMCA Family Center was so named, it was known as the West Orange YMCA. But few people know it was called something else before that.
It was 45 years ago the Central Florida YMCA held a dedication ceremony and open house for its new West Orange Branch in Winter Garden. The facility was named the E.M. Tanner Memorial YMCA, and cutting the ribbon during the dedication program were Tanner’s wife, Mary V. Tanner; John C. Jowett, M.D.; Barbara Roper; and Dick Fischer.
The program for the Sept. 23, 1979, ceremony was filled with other notable men and women of West Orange County, including Y board chairman Larry Cappleman; Barbara Roper, president-elect of the Central Florida YMCA; the Rev. Roger B. Seidner, of Windermere Union Church; swim coach Fred Tyler; and the West Orange branch’s board of management, consisting of Ward P. Britt Jr., Jim Buttram, Cappleman, Ann Crooks, Fred Cruciger, Norman Dault, Fred Davis, Dan Dummett, Steve Girvin, Denise Hall, Hank Sines, Joe Stinnett, John Terrell Jr., Ben Hargrove, Jim Hayes, Ron Henson, Bob Koelble, James O’Neal Jr., Alice Orie, Tom Ritten, Roper, Seidner, Gary Thornton, Maxine Walls and Milton West.
Today, the Y branch continues to provide health and wellness space for the community.
“The Roper Y is a place where people come together to support one another and grow stronger,” said Justin Higa, executive director of the Roper YMCA Family Center. “Cel-
ebrating 45 years is a testament to the dedication of our staff, volunteers, donors and members who make this possible every day, and we look forward to continuing to serve our community with passion and purpose for many years to come.”
A GATHERING PLACE
The Roper Y is situated on Windermere Road south of Florida’s Turnpike, but that was not the original intended location.
The YMCA actually became a branch of the Central Florida YMCA in 1972, according to a history provided by the Y. For seven years, it operated as a non-facility branch, running programs at the local KOA Campground, Story Point on Lake Butler, Drew High
School on East Story Road and Tanner Auditorium (now Tanner Hall) on Lake Apopka, as well as in Orange County facilities. Swim lessons were offered at motel swimming pools, including the Holiday Inn and Ramada Inn (which, later, was renamed the Colony Plaza hotel).
The YMCA offices were housed in rooms donated by the Ramada Inn.
In 1977, the YMCA moved into a house on about five acres donated by Mary V. Tanner in memory of her husband, E.M. Tanner. The YMCA had intended to build on this property north of the turnpike, but neighbors objected because of traffic.
Through a private negotiation between a land owner and board member Bert Roper, a deal was struck
to ob tainthe present property at Marshall Farms and Windermere roads.
The William Norvelle Denmark family bought the five acres from the Y. The Y then agreed to buy 10 acres of a 21.672-acre grove on the south side of the turnpike owned by Lou Jacobs, an Orlando citrus man. An agreement was reached with Bert and Barbara Roper purchasing the remaining 11.672 acres and paying for it over the next 10 years.
The West Orange YMCA branch’s request to the Central Florida Capital Funds Committee was approved. The group committed $75,000, and the YMCA set a goal of $100,000 to build a multipurpose room, offices, locker rooms and a swimming pool.
In July 1979, the pool opened; the
100 Windermere Road, Winter Garden
PHONE: 407-656-8816
WEBSITE: ymcacf.org/locations/roper
AMENITIES
n Group exercise classes
n Adult pickup sports n Free weights and cardio equipment
n Saunas and steam room
n Indoor, outdoor and family pools – free swim and swim lessons
n Aqua fitness classes
n Virtual classes and learning
n Youth sports
n Y Explorers — Children ages 5 to 12 years old can explore new activities and interests
n Child Watch — Children under 12 can enjoy a fun and safe childwatch environment while parents work out or take a class
rest of the facility opened a month later. Some of the earliest branch directors were Hargrove, Jack West, Jim Brewer and Bill Kilday.
A Fitnasium was added in 1992, and Mary V. Tanner gave an initial $50,000 to kick off the campaign. The Dr. Phillips Foundation contributed, but when the funds were deemed insufficient, Tanner gave an additional $50,000. The building was designated the E.V. Tanner Memorial YMCA.
In spring 1993, the Ropers sold more than 11 acres to Orange County as part of the 55-acre park, which now has soccer fields, a dog park and other activities. The proceeds of the sale were put into the Bert E. Roper Charitable Remainder Unitrust formed in August 1991 that designated the YMCA as the remainder organization.
The Unitrust trustees, Rebecca Ann Roper Stafford, Bert Edward Roper Jr., Preston Reid Roper and Charles Franklin Roper, received a deed to the 11 acres four months later. The Unitrust was then liquidated, and the proceeds were part of the major gift for new construction in 2004. The new facility contained 28,000 square feet, nearly tripling the size, with a full-size gymnasium with scoreboard and bleachers, new adult locker rooms with dry saunas, and a new front entrance.
For this, the West Orange Y was renamed the Roper YMCA Family Center.
A 2015 expansion created a Healthy Living Zone Health Performance Center and Healthy Living addition.
In 2019, Barbara Roper was inducted into the National YMCA Hall of Fame for her dedication and contributions to the nonprofit. Her work with the organization began in the 1960s, when she was researching camps for her children and discovered Camp Wewa, in Apopka, which was operated by the YMCA of Central Florida.
Roper was the first female board chair of the YMCA of Central Florida and the first female board chair of the YMCA of the USA.
“Over the past four and a half decades, the Roper YMCA Family Center has grown alongside our rapidly expanding community to serve as a trusted home of health and wellness for thousands of neighbors of all ages,” said Kevin Bolding, YMCA of Central Florida president and CEO. “We are excited to continue building on this legacy of impact by creating even more opportunities for our neighbors to grow stronger together in spirit, mind and body.”
Courtesy of Roper YMCA Family Center
The West Orange Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors helped the Roper YMCA celebrate a milestone anniversary.
Left: The West Orange YMCA hired Melissa Craft, center, as the aquatics director and swim team coach when the new competition pool was constructed in 1979. With her are YMCA director Dave Snyder, right, and Fred Cruciger, the president of the parents committee to establish a swim team in West Orange.
Courtesy of Roper YMCA Family Center
Above: Fred Tyler, who won a gold medal in the 1972 Munich Olympics for 800-meter freestyle relays, coached swimmers on the YMCA’s swim team in 1979.
Left: Winter Garden Police Officer Jon “J.J.” Johnson coached the 76ers YMCA youth basketball team in 1979.
Theater’s closing shocks community
The Winter Garden theater has announced it is closing due to insurmountable financial challenges.
ANNABELLE SIKES
NEWS EDITOR
The news of the Garden Theatre’s unexpected closing Oct. 2 has left many residents shocked, confused and heartbroken.
The theater has been a staple in the community since its original opening in 1935 and, after many years of being shuttered, again at its reopening in 2008.
Garden Theatre representatives announced the closure on the theater’s website.
“It is with heavy hearts that we announce the closing of Garden Theatre Inc., due to financial challenges that have proven insurmountable,” the statement read. “Despite our best efforts to continue providing a space for creativity, community and the performing arts, we can no longer sustain the operational costs and demands necessary to keep our doors open.”
The theater underwent several renovations until closing in 1963, falling victim to the popularity of television.
The city of Winter Garden then purchased the building in 2002, turning over restoration efforts to the Winter Garden Heritage Foundation. The joint effort between the two organizations culminated in the successful reopening of the Garden Theatre in February 2008.
“Unfortunately, rising costs and the challenges of recent times, including significant state budget cuts, have deeply impacted our ability to secure the funding required to maintain our mission,” theater representatives wrote on the website. “We are so grateful to everyone who has supported us over the years — our audiences, donors, volunteers and artists. Your dedication and passion have been the heartbeat of this theater, and we are honored to have been part of this community for so very long. While our final curtain has drawn, the memories, friendships and artistic achievements we’ve shared will live on. Thank you for being part of our story and for allowing Garden Theatre to be part of yours.”
WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?
Although Garden Theatre representatives have not responded to multiple requests for comment from the Observer, Keith Davenport, Garden Theatre COO, shared some of his thoughts on his personal Facebook page.
“Friends, I have been hesitant to respond to the Garden Theatre closure, because in the past any truth-
ful and authentic expression of my words regarding the theater have been turned and used against the organization or me as a weapon, so, I won’t,” he said. “That said, as I am no longer an employee, I will only inform you that I, too, am affected by this closure with pain for the lost institution, tears for the young artists and our staff and board, and a horrific sadness for the performances past that will look and feel a bit different moving forward. But, my passion for what the arts in community, and, in specific, West Orange County, can do, I celebrate with the good the theater did in its various chapters over its 17 years. In 2008, Garden Theatre began to entertain, educate and bring enlightenment to a community that was ready for it. It is a beautiful facility, and the art can continue.”
Winter Garden City Manager Jon C. Williams said the city became aware of the Garden Theatre’s closure at the same time as the public.
“Although the city owns the building, the city’s longstanding agreement with the theater does not grant the city jurisdiction over its operations and finances,” he said. “As such, the city did not have a role in the theater’s decision to close its doors. Currently, the city is looking into the legalities and ramifications of the closure, and this process will take time. Meanwhile, what is certain is that the Garden Theatre is an important cultural resource for Winter Garden and Central Florida, and the historical Garden Theatre will remain intact as the theater.”
Restoring the Garden Theatre and presenting it to the people as a performing arts center was the fourth architectural preservation project of the Winter Garden Heritage Foundation.
“Led in large part by Barbara Roper, a capital campaign begun in 2003 led to the theater’s new debut in 2008,” Jim Crescitelli, director of the WGHF, said. “We are proud of its position as a gem set firmly within the heart of the downtown historic district. I speak in the present tense, because we have a feeling that it will be back. It served as a valuable player in Winter Garden’s revival, and we do not want to see it fade away.”
Groups, such as Young Star Musical Theatre, have offered assistance for those impacted by the theater’s closure. The organization offered its theater and rehearsal space to the young actors scheduled to perform in the Garden Theatre’s production of “The Little Mermaid,” previously scheduled for Oct. 24 through 27, as well as other local performances.
“We are sad to hear the recent news about the closure of the Garden Theatre,” YSMT staff said. “We know how much time, effort and heart has gone into their upcoming production of ‘The Little Mermaid,’ and our hearts go out to everyone involved.
Young Star Musical Theatre wants to help any way we can. We’re offering
our theater and rehearsal space, 67 S. Dillard St., right down the street from the Garden, so the show can go on and these young performers can still experience the magic of bringing their talents to the stage.”
YSMT also will be taking in the “Willy Wonka” homeschool students through December.
Local residents already have created a Facebook page called “Save the Garden Theater!” as well as a petition to try and help.
However, Jessica Huckabey, an independent theatrical producer who owns nonprofit Central Florida Stages INC and who brought “Moonshine and Mistletoe: An Appalachian Christmas Tale” to the theater last year, said a petition isn’t the best way to help the theater.
“Like you, I do not want this venue to close,” she shared in multiple messages on Facebook. “However, I want to take this opportunity to educate the public on how theater works so that you, the audience, can better support theater makers and also assist in making sure theater and entertainment remains in the Garden Theatre.
“The building ‘The Garden Theatre’ and the nonprofit that was running it, ‘The Garden Theatre INC’ are NOT one and the same,” she said. “This creates a bit of confusion in the public eye. The building itself is owned by the city of Winter Garden. They have simply given permission to the nonprofit business entity to manage and operate within the space. The nonprofit theater company itself can, and likely will, be replaced. However, this is not simple. The theater company ‘The Garden Theatre INC’ has already, or will be, completely dissolved. This means that this nonprofit will no longer be operational and that all of their debt will simply be absolved, minus their obligation to make final payroll to their employees. This means they have no obligation to pay back any money they owe to anyone, including ticket holders, donors, creditors, etc. I don’t personally know anything about their operations or intentions. They may still try to pay certain things, but they are not legally obligated to, as far as I know. They are basically ‘bankrupt,’ which for a nonprofit means they have to close.”
Huckabey said many people have formed opinions on the theater’s operations, and this has created huge strife.
“Honestly, it is irrelevant,” she said. “People make mistakes. Sometimes, they are irreversible. That’s unfortunate but true. At this point, we should applaud this company for their years of dedication to the arts and leave it at that.”
She said the nonprofit will wrap up its operations and hand the building back to the city, who will then determine what nonprofit gets to operate the building next. Huckabey said her nonprofit is prepared with a team to come in and keep the building operational. However,
“If
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the organization must have cooperation and permission to do so.
She said the community can best support by advocating for her organization to take over. Those who have questions or comments or wish to provide assistance can email jessica@ centralfloridastages.org.
HOW DID WE GET HERE?
Garden Theatre representatives previously said the organization suffered a tremendous hit from Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis’ veto of about $900 million in state projects, including $32 million in cultural and museum grants and related funding, as he signed the 2024-25 $116.5 billion state budget.
Theatre South Playhouse, led by executive director Hillary Brook, said the closure is a sobering reminder of the fragility of nonprofit arts organizations.
“The Garden Theatre is a cultural landmark that has provided opportunities for our community since 2008,” she said. “I personally hold this beautiful building dear to my heart for providing both of my children with the beginning of their professional careers on its stage. The arts foster creativity, growth and inclusive unity — experiences that are becoming increasingly rare. If we don’t take immediate action, we risk losing more vital spaces. Our state leaders, representatives and, most importantly, our community need to rally behind the arts before it’s too late.”
Previous Garden Theatre staff also have taken to Facebook to express their feelings following the closure, hinting at the theater’s previous struggles with topics including diversity, equity and inclusion.
“What happened to the Garden is not unique and could and does quickly happen to other arts organizations,”
Nick Bazo, previous education director at the Garden Theatre, shared on his Facebook. “We need to reexamine the antiquated board structure of most of our arts organizations. We need to revamp our funding structures and find better ways to get investment from our communities.”
Following turnover in several highly visible roles at the theater in 2022, the theater’s board of directors announced the temporary cease of operations to focus on “conducting an in-depth review of our organizational structure and operations.”
In March, Garden Theatre leaders issued a formal message on social media acknowledging and apologizing for “the past harms that have been done to the Orlando theater community.”
As part of the theater’s readjustments, theater officials said the board and staff completed training, including DEI training, through the Edyth Bush Institute with Rollins College. Throughout the past few months, the theater also appeared to have achieved tremendous strides with its success of many shows, such as “Pippin,” which focused on accessibility and the talented contributions of deaf actors and creatives for audiences to experience the duality of the hearing and non-hearing world. The theater also partnered with the Central Florida Audio Description Initiative to bring audio description to local audiences who are blind or have low vision.
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File photo by Kirk Marsh
The Garden Theatre opened in 1935 and, after many years of being shuttered, again in 2008.
Alcohol ordinance passes P&Z board
Winter Garden’s new proposed alcohol ordinance next will head to the City Commission, but with specific recommendations.
ANNABELLE SIKES
NEWS EDITOR
At its Oct. 7 meeting, Winter Garden’s Planning and Zoning Board unanimously recommended approval of a new proposed alcohol ordinance following vast amounts of public comment from local business owners and residents, as well as on-the-fence discussion from multiple board members.
Despite the recommendation, board members believe the ordinance needs work. The recommendation was based on contingencies, including city staff hosting more meetings with business owners, as well as the West Orange Chamber of Commerce, and revising ambiguous language.
“We’ve come a long way over the years, and in doing that there’s been some growing pains associated with being a place that people love to come to,” board member Jimmy Dunn said. “I understand we need to protect the quality of the downtown area. Winter Garden is a family city. But, I also believe that we have to protect our small-business owners. … I’d like to find some compromise here.”
The ordinance will next go before the City Commission for a first reading Oct. 24.
CITY PRESENTATION
City Planning Director Kelly Carson reiterated the city’s reasoning behind the ordinance at the P&Z meeting.
“The first (reason) is to make the code more consistent with our city’s charter, and the second is to make the code more consistent with new state regulations,” she said. “The state recently did almost a complete overhaul on some of their regulations, and so this ordinance would bring us into compliance with some of those new regulations from the state. (Also), to be more responsive to reported issues related to late-night alcohol consumption, to provide clearer guidance on other issues related to alcohol sales and consumption, and to encourage and maintain the city’s quality of life
and foster a family-friendly environment throughout the city — all while supporting a thriving business community.”
Carson said issues have been reflected by a number of police calls, as well as other evidence, including complaints; vomit and fluids found outside establishments; prophylactics, undergarments and contraband found in public areas; trash and debris throughout downtown; and video footage of illicit and illegal activities.
In her presentation, Carson included a statement from parks director Laura Coar: “My staff is so accustomed to cleaning up all manners of trash, debris, bodily fluids and other detritus from late-night drinking activities that we don’t even think to take photographs for evidence anymore. Many people don’t realize that downtown at 8 a.m. is not the same downtown at 5 a.m. when we are faced with cleaning everything up from the night before.”
Carson said the city has to hire officers to do extra patrols, which costs taxpayers about $150,000 per year.
The changes in the proposed ordinance are reflected in several sections of the code, which include a revised definition of a restaurant; restaurants must have a commercial kitchen with equipment to prepare a full-course meal, including an entree, vegetable or side, and nonalcoholic beverage; a restaurant must be able to serve fullcourse meals prepared in the commercial kitchen whenever alcohol is served — the city added a provision that food can be pre-prepped for late-night service prior to the kitchen closing — all restaurants that serve alcohol must derive more than 50% of their sales from the sale of food and non-alcoholic beverages; and restaurants that serve beer, wine and liquor must provide at least 120 indoor seats, unless they are classified as a fine-dining establishment.
The new definition for a fine-dining establishment requires a restaurant to meet four of the five listed criteria to receive the title, and being designated
as a fine-dining establishment would allow a restaurant to use outdoor seating to count towards the minimum 120 seating requirement for liquor sales.
Other changes also include the hours of permitted alcohol sale and consumption to change from 7 a.m. to midnight. The city has made changes to specify alcohol sale and consumption may be permitted from midnight to 2 a.m. if an establishment applies for and receives an extension-of-hours permit.
Businesses would be required to submit an application with a $250 fee renewed annually. A committee comprising city staff and the police chief would review all new and renewing permit applications and determine if an establishment needs to hire any state-licensed private security officers or police protection inside and/or outside the facility.
The changes also state a permit may “be suspended or revoked if the establishment repeatedly fails to control certain deleterious efforts of latenight alcohol consumption.” This would include a presented case with evidence and opportunity for appeal.
The new section relating to hours would impact seven businesses: The Whole Enchilada, Cariera’s Fresh Italian, Pilar’s Martini & Loft, Mr. Shot Cantina, Hagan O’Reilly’s, Tony’s Liquors and Miller’s Ale House.
City staff said the intention of the ordinance is not to shut any business down nor to punish any specific business, and the city has met multiple times with owners of affected businesses. City leaders say they have a duty to represent all of Winter Garden’s citizens, even those who do not want any alcohol, and that finding a healthy compromise is key.
Carson said the city began drafting the ordinance earlier this year, and more than 2,000 businesses were sent copies of the original draft ordinance
PREVIOUS STORIES
n How will Winter Garden’s alcohol ordinance impact downtown businesses?: shorturl.at/3FRAa n Revised alcohol ordinance will impact all of Winter Garden: shorturl.at/AwRPY
and any subsequent drafts.
BUSINESS OWNERS SPEAK OUT
Tim Grosshans, senior pastor of Winter Garden’s First Baptist church, complimented the city manager and staff for taking action on the issue.
However, many affected business owners expressed concerns.
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.
“There is no problem documented by the city for which a regulatory solution is needed, and certainly not one that is contrary to state law, imposes significant Bert Harris penalties on the city and violates the city charter,” he said. “The proposed ordinance should be strongly rejected as being contrary to the U.S. and Florida constituents, Florida Statutes, and the best interests of the citizens and businesses of Winter Garden. At the very least, the city should seek the attorney general’s opinion as to the potential conflicts between the proposed ordinance and Florida law.”
Charles and Becky Roper, owners of Pilar’s Martini & Loft, continue to have concerns about the ordinance.
“We built this business so people that were working late at the hospitals, at the theme parks and at the other places that have been serving everyone else all day long have somewhere to go at the end of the day,” Charlie Roper said. “We were told by lots of people in the city that there was no latenight business here, but then people started coming in. They realized there was somewhere close to home that
they could come and have a late-night beverage. We created a business. Now, we have one of the premier jazz clubs in the state of Florida.
“There’s some good things in this ordinance; it’s not all bad,” he said. “There’s some good conversation that’s been had because of the creation of this ordinance, but we think that there’s still time to have additional conversations and also talk about the language that’s in here.”
Drew Cardaci, co-owner of The Whole Enchilada, has concerns about the financial burden the ordinance could cause, as well as suspension and revoking of the extension of hours permit based on actions of patrons.
“There are things that can happen there that are fully out of our control,” he said. “We’ve had people that I’ve removed from our facility, having come from another establishment and being intoxicated. We’ve refused service and had it escalate and become an issue. I do feel like the city has the best intentions, but the language is there that it could possibly be used against us.”
Cardaci said the business has spent close to $52,000 on off-duty officers the past two years.
Aaron Dudek, co-owner of Tony’s Liquors, said the city has been receptive during meetings. However, he believes the “dirty time” being between midnight and 2 a.m. is untrue. He has owned two bars in downtown Orlando for more than 20 years, and Winter Garden is the first place he’s had to hire an off-duty officer.
“We’re not forcing the citizens of Winter Garden to come into our bars or our restaurants and get crazy or do whatever people think they do here,” he said. “We currently, on our own volition, hire a cop for three or four hours every Friday and Saturday at about $60 an hour, and it has helped. It’s a great visual deterrent. … It was our idea, it wasn’t the city’s idea. … I don’t think any of the instances we’ve had have been after midnight. … I feel like we’re being painted as this evil being in town, and we’re not.”
First Baptist Church @ Horizon West 15304 Tilden Road, Winter Garden
Sundays: 9:45 AM All Ages www.FBCWG.org
Starke Lake Baptist Church
Pastor Jeff Pritchard PO Box 520 611 W Ave., Ocoee (407) 656-2351 www.StarkeLakeBaptist.org
Victory Baptist Church & Christian Academy
1601 A.D. Mims Rd, Ocoee FL 34761 (407) 656-3097 www.VBCOCOEE.com
Sunday: 11AM & 6 PM Wednesday: 7 PM
EPISCOPAL
Church of the Messiah
241 N. Main St., Winter Garden
Sunday: 8, 9:30, & 11 AM., 4PM (French & Creole), 7 PM www.ChurchoftheMessiah.com
METHODIST
First United Methodist www.fumcwg.org 125 N. Lakeview Ave., Winter Garden (407) 656-1135
Services: 9 AM Traditional 10:45 AM Contemporary Also viewable on YouTube
he signature fundraising event for West Orange’s homeless ministry Matthew’s Hope returned Sept. 28 to Ocoee.
Twenties
Lakeshore
Guests came in their best Roaring 20s attire.
Matthew’s Hope’s Sharlene Dewitz, left, and Scott Billue found the secret entrance to the gala.
West Orange’s ambassador of fun, DJ Bubbles, aka Stephen Herron, kept the tunes spinning all night.
Southeast Construction Partners break ground on new project
The project, located at the corner of Smith and Main streets, includes a two-story restaurant concept, as well as office spaces available for rent.
ANNABELLE SIKES NEWS EDITOR
Southeast Construction Partners hosted a groundbreaking ceremony for its first project Oct. 1 at the corner of Smith and Main streets in downtown Winter Garden.
The planned two-story, 17,000-square-foot building, located at 186 S. Main St., Winter Garden, includes a two-story restaurant concept, as well as office spaces available for rent, making it a dynamic addition to the downtown area.
What makes this development par-
ticularly special is its design around a stunning, 100-year-old oak tree, integrating nature into the heart of the project.
The building is scheduled to be completed by spring 2025.
“This is a little bit more than just a groundbreaking event,” said Richard Ionelli, Southeast Construction Partners president and CEO. “We have our groundbreaking for the event, but we also have the groundbreaking for our new company, Southeast Con-
soon will be based on Plant Street in Winter Garden.
“While we are new in name, our team brings more than 25 years of industry experience and a strong commitment to bringing innovative construction projects to life,” Ionelli said. “Our focus is on delivering excellence in every project, guided by values rooted in integrity, collaboration and client satisfaction.”
Ionelli said the four main focuses of the company are safety, transparency, loyalty and commitment.
“We specialize in both commercial and residential construction, including low-income and tax credit multifamily projects and market-rate multi-family housing,” he said. “In addition to general contracting, we offer project management, construction consulting and pre-construction services. With our extensive experience and dedication to quality, we look forward to making a lasting impact in Winter Garden and across Florida.”
The groundbreaking event additionally included words from other project leaders, such as David Cardaci and Steve Healy, as well as a dirtscooping ceremony completed with the help of community members.
The building, which will be constructed out of masonry and steel, will feature brick exterior with aluminum windows to match the character and charm of the downtown area.
The project will consist of 5,100 square feet of finished restaurant space, with the remaining area being reserved for unfinished office space.
The building also will be designed around the historical tree, with a second-story patio area under its canopy.
struction Partners. It’s only about 3 months old, and this will be our first project. … My goal with this company is to grow it to where it’s not giant, but it’s big enough to be sustainable. I want to be able to stay in the mix, in the details and in the community. I want to give my clients the attention and quality they deserve. With bigger companies, it tends to be a challenge for the leadership team to stay involved.”
Southeast Construction Partners
“This is going to be an exciting addition to our city,” Ionelli said. “Let’s make it clear: The tree stays. We are not going to touch the tree. We potentially will first improve the area around the tree and give it more protection. The building has been designed to actually work around the tree.”
Southeast Construction Partners already has plans for more upcoming projects in the area, including medical and professional offices on Dillard Street and an undetermined project on Fourth Street and State Road 50.
Southeast Construction Partners hosted a groundbreaking ceremony for its first project Oct. 1.
Local church provides aid following Hurricane Helene
Members of the Orlando West Stake Center of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints traveled to a control center in Chiefland to assist communities devastated by the storm.
ANNABELLE
SIKES NEWS EDITOR
Tears well up in Steinhatchee resident Ken Pender’s eyes when he sees the yellow T-shirts worn by volunteers of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints arrive in his neighborhood.
When the volunteer teams pulls up, Pender is outside helping his neighbors in need, including 87-year-old Minnie Pope, who has lived in the area since 1972.
“I bought my house here 24 years ago, and I’ve lived here full-time for about seven years,” he said. “I stayed in my house, and thankfully, nothing broke during the storm. I had very little damage compared to a lot of my neighbors. Mrs. Pope here lives by herself. Her son and daughter come every day in the evening to check on her. She went and stayed with her son during the storm. She couldn’t even get to her yard when she came back to check on it because of all the debris. I immediately recognized the T-shirts, as this church helped clear my driveway only last year.”
As a small coastal community, Steinhatchee was especially hard hit by Hurricane Helene’s powerful winds and storm surge, which reached up to 20 feet in the area. Most homes were on the sides of the roadways or gone, boats were everywhere and lots of people needed help.
These factors in the community and the surrounding area spurred The Church to set up one of its four command centers in the state in Chiefland about an hour from Steinhatechee.
Volunteers from the Orlando West Stake, located in Horizon West, made the trip out to the area to participate in disaster cleanup the weekend of Oct. 5 and 6. The volunteers plan to again provide assistance this weekend.
“When I see people like you guys, it makes me just tear up,” Pender said.
“This is what does my heart good. I think there’s a lot of people that were on the edge of knowing Christ, and this storm probably pushed them to the other side of the fence. They can’t understand, and I don’t have any answers. I don’t know how to say that I don’t know why I have my home and you have nothing.”
‘THESE PEOPLE HAVE LOST EVERYTHING’
Following the devastation of Hurricane Helene, The Church immediately set up 12 command centers to help provide aid.
Four hundred congregations pitched in to help, spanning from across Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Tennessee, North Carolina and South Carolina. About 6,172 volunteers signed up to help the first weekend, with 170 from the local West Stake. The Church partners with Crisis Cleanup, a collaborative disaster work order management platform, to take calls from those in need at command centers. The command centers document the calls, pinpoint the locations needing assistance on a map, take down information about the site in need and help to organize work orders.
Teams then are assigned an area to provide assistance. Based on the necessary tasks, team leaders visit the supply area at the command centers, which is equipped with items such as sweepers, chainsaws and shovels for tasks including tree and debris removal, roof tarping, and mucking out of houses.
The teams pray before heading out to the sites, and they also offer words of prayer and a song to victims, regardless of their faith, following the completion of a work order.
Each of these two weekends, many church members will be camping out on Friday night so they can work as volunteers all day Saturday and most of Sunday. Others will drive down early on Saturdays.
Following Hurricane Ian, more than 10,000 members from The Church
volunteered to assist more than 30,000 victims.
The Church is anticipating the numbers will be much higher for Hurricane Helene.
West Stake communication leaders Tiffany Bratt and Corene Bingham both volunteered with their husbands and their children last year for Hurricane Ian disaster recovery.
“We try to be disciples of Christ and show that we love our neighbor,” Bratt said. “We want to instill hope and show them that there are people who do care. We’re all children of God, and we all want to help each other. Service just really allows us to love other people.”
“For me, it’s rewarding to be able to be here to serve other people and to bring my family to serve,” Bingham said. “When we come in and we’re able to connect with the people and we’re able to see how it is blessing their lives, to me it strengthens my testimony. It gives me more of a desire to follow Jesus Christ and serve the way he served. It makes me feel compassion for others, but it also makes me feel so blessed.
Everybody has trials in their lives, but I look at what we’ve
Summerlake resident Mark Peterson helped to shovel debris inside Steinhatchee resident Betty Green’s home.
Hamlin resident Kaulin Hinton stopped for a quick picture in front of the cleared debris collected from Steinhatchee resident Betty Green’s home.
Photos by Annabelle Sikes
Volunteers from the Orlando West Stake Center of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints took a picture in front of Steinhatchee resident Betty Green’s home with her sister Linda Bryant.
Left: Volunteers from Horizon West helped to cut large trees into smaller pieces in front of Steinhatchee resident Minnie Pope’s home.
been dealing with, and it’s nothing compared to this. I still have my home and my family, but these people have lost everything.”
‘I’M NOT OK, BUT EVERYTHING’S GOING TO BE ALRIGHT’ Winter Garden and Horizon West residents traveled out to a variety of locations to provide assistance in Chiefland.
One of the first morning stops Oct. 5 was the residence of Steinhatchee resident Betty Green.
Green’s family has lived in the area for more than 100 years, with heavy ties to the community.
Green’s sister, Linda Bryant, was on the scene trying to determine if any items from the home were salvageable.
The house underwent complete water damage and had to be gutted. Most items are beyond repair.
“We had lost my mom two years ago, and my sister had lost her husband 11 years ago,” Bryant said. “She had just downsized to this house. Her daughter had just remodeled the house for her. She fixed it up exactly to her liking. She was so excited about this. She hasn’t even come back and seen it yet.” Bryant said the storm devastated the whole town, but the community has been gracious in coming together to help those in greater need.
“The infrastructure is going to be damaged for quite some time,” she said. “The human emotion behind everything has been overwhelming. I haven’t really stopped to think about what’s happened, because I can’t. I feel guilty that we still have a home to live in, because so many don’t. You wonder why one person is saved while the others are not, but you have to remember that God has a plan. You just have to keep moving. We’re just trying to maintain ourselves and be strong enough to get past this; you have highs and lows. We’re just fortunate to be alive, really, but we’re trying to figure out what life looks like moving forward. I’m not OK, but everything’s going to be alright.”
Summerlake resident Mark Peterson, who was on-scene at Green’s house, has volunteered with storm cleanup for the last seven years.
“I’ve been blessed, and I’ve got so much in my life that it seems like nothing to give a little back and help people who have been hurt so badly,” he said. “I’m more than happy to help. Physically, yes, it’s a lot of work out in the hot sun for hours, but mentally it’s the most rewarding thing. It just makes you feel good.”
Ben LeStarge, who lives in the Waterside community of Winter Garden, said volunteering to provide assistance stems back to The Church’s beliefs.
“We’re Christians, and we believe in Jesus Christ,” he said. “That’s what He did, so we’re trying in our own small way to replicate that. Imagine that everything you own is damaged, and some items beyond repair. We want these victims to know there’s people who care about them, and there’s a Savior (who) cares about us. We just want to provide some relief, peace and security. I hope we’re sympathetic and compassionate, and we realize that this can really happen to anyone.”
Help from Horizon West
Resident Corbin Clouser, with the help of his family and other community members, flew essential supplies and resources to those in need in North Carolina.
ANNABELLE SIKES
NEWS EDITOR
Sept. 27. That’s the day Hurricane Helene reached Western North Carolina.
The storm had made landfall as a Category 4 behemoth near Perry, Florida, but at that time, no one could have guessed the devastation that was to come.
As it made its way inland, the storm caused millions to lose power, and hundreds of homes and scores of roads were damaged or destroyed.
The storm dumped inches of rain on communities that already had seen multiple inches of rain that week.
The storm has left a death toll that continues to rise, with more than 100 reported in North Carolina alone.
The carnage was a wake-up call for Horizon West residents Corbin and Stephanie Clouser, who moved to the area in 2018 after living in Asheville, North Carolina, for six years.
Asheville is where the couple started their family, where they had their first home and where Corbin Clouser began his career as an air traffic controller.
He couldn’t sit idle and watch his former home suffer. So, on Oct. 3, Corbin Clouser flew himself from Apopka to the Asheville Control Tower, where he previously worked, to deliver supplies to those in need impacted by the storm.
The 12-hour endeavor, with more than eight hours of flight, was filled with overpowering emotions for the Clouser family.
“It had only been a matter of days, but our friends there said it felt like weeks,” Corbin Clouser said. “Everything was just really dragging people down. The morale was really low at the tower. People were sad, emotional and scared. When I first flew in, I about lost it. You see helicopters and medevacs flying out everywhere. It was really hard, and it felt like a war zone.”
HOMETOWN HERO
The news of the storm’s impact quickly spread across the country.
“I feel like it didn’t really sink in right away, and then after a couple of days just seeing pictures and videos pop up of places that we used to spend time and hangout, it was really upsetting,” Stephanie Clouser said. “These places we loved looked nothing like how we remembered them.”
At first, the couple were at a loss for how to help, but they knew they felt compelled to do something.
“It was hard,” Corbin Clouser said. “It felt personal for us, because it will always be our first home.”
The pair reached out to friends in North Carolina to check in and see how they were doing, but with spotty reception even to this day, it was hard not to worry.
“A lot of the FEMA aid is going to the smaller communities, so we didn’t know the resources they even had,” Stephanie Clouser said. “They didn’t have power or cell phone service. People were having to boil water to make sure it was safe to use. We found out they didn’t have gas, they didn’t have food, and there were no stores to get supplies from.
Carolinas to see what may be open as possible opportunities for refueling and hot food to deliver. Corbin Clouser also had to be cleared by the Federal Emergency Management Agency to be able to land at the North Carolina airport. It took about two hectic days to organize a plan, collect what was needed and secure the supplies. Corbin Clouser only had about a day off work to make the trip, and the weather in the area posed a possible threat.
The couple’s biggest helpers were their two children: Madison, 9, and Brady, 7.
Although the family wanted to go with Corbin Clouser, weight on the plane was a huge concern. They wanted to pack as many supplies, plus gas needed, on the plane as possible.
“We have little kids,” Stephanie Clouser said. “They didn’t really understand the impact the storm had, but they’ve seen the impact it had on us as their parents and watched everything we have been doing to help. They’re very compassionate, and they’ve helped us out the whole way.”
TRIP
TRIUMPHANT
Corbin Clouser took off from Apopka in a rented plane.
Along the way, he began to call around to local restaurants to see if anybody would be willing to deliver hot food items he could bring to his friends and their families.
As an aircraft controller, Corbin’s friends had to be at the airport, and they were working overtime. They couldn’t leave. We were concerned about basic things, like how they were showering at night, if they were sleeping, and how they were taking care of their family and their home. We wanted to help out — even if it was just a little bit.”
That’s when Corbin Clouser got the idea to fly into the airport he previously worked to deliver necessary supplies to those in need.
“I started asking people what they needed,” he said. “Not what the community needed as a whole, but what our friends needed and wanted as individuals. A lot of them wanted flashlights and batteries, as well as foods like fresh fruit and bread. It made me sad hearing these people we knew asking for things like dog food or a half-gallon of milk, because being here in Orlando right now, those aren’t things we needed to worry about.”
Corbin and Stephanie Clouser collected more than $1,000 in supplies. Essential items included food, water, baby food, dog food, batteries, flashlights and trash bags.
The couple made calls around the
A local Chick-fil-A in Aiken, South Carolina, said it would deliver a catering order to the airport. Corbin Clouser bought as many chicken sandwiches as the minimum amount for catering required, as he knew they would come prewrapped in foil, which would help in maintaining heat.
When he arrived at the airport, he was thrilled to see the restaurant had plugged a warming cooler into the wall to keep the sandwiches as hot as possible. He also was able to fill up on gas.
Reaching the North Carolina airport was an emotional moment for Corbin Clouser.
However, the trip went without a hitch, and his friends in North Carolina were incredibly grateful. Throughout the trip, Corbin Clouser’s family was able to track his progress in the air.
He arrived back home the night of Oct. 3 to two delighted children waving a sweet sign reading “Welcome back, Dad! You are awesome!” Corbin Clouser, who has been flying since he was 14 years old, said he always had an interest in charity flying, where he could use his skills for a good purpose, and he saw the recent opportunity as a way to get started.
“The support from our local community here was amazing,” Stephanie Clouser said. “It was overwhelming, especially because a lot of our friends knew that North Carolina was a place that we called home. A lot of people were grateful, because they wanted to help but didn’t know how. If we decided to do this again, we already have tons of people who have expressed support. … Our son has an interest in aviation, and I know this small act of kindness made an impact on our children that I hope they always will remember. We were just so glad we could help.”
Corbin Clouser packed a rented plane full of essential supplies in preparation for his trip.
Courtesy photos
Stephanie, left, Madison, Brady and Corbin Clouser captured a family photo following the completion of the supply delivery.
SPORTS
HIGH 5
1The FHSAA Sectional Appeals Committee overturned unanimously the initial suspension of 365 days for five The First Academy football players.
“We are thankful to the FHSAA Sectional Appeals Committee, which met regarding alleged impermissible benefits being provided to student-athletes at The First Academy,” said TFA’s legal representative Frank Kruppenbacher in a released statement. “The committee studied the evidence carefully, asked questions insightfully and ruled equitably. We are delighted that these students are immediately eligible.”
The five Royals players — Aden Hall Demetrice McCray, Trintin Thomas, DJ Whiley and Alex Willis — were accused of receiving impermissible benefits; specifically, one free lunch delivered to four players at the school and TFA offensive coordinator Steven Moffett providing one of the student-athletes one Uber ride.
FHSAA Executive Director
Craig Damon initially deemed the five players ineligible to play for TFA for a full calendar year, but the five-person appeals committee overturned the ruling and reduced the penalty to time-served as the five players sat out the Royals game against Melbourne Central Catholic.
2
Following the Windermere girls golf team’s Metro West Conference championship win, the boys golf team completed the sweep and claimed the 2024 boys team Metro West Conference championship, the fifth in the program’s history, Oct. 1.
The Wolverines also finished second in the overall Metro Orlando championships with a score of 295, five strokes behind Winter Park High.
Senior Cameron Baez led the way for Windermere, finishing second in the West division and fifth overall with a score of 70 (-2) over the 18 hole tournament
3
Olympia High has announced the hire of Akai Milson as the Titans’ next girls basketball coach.
“With a passion for the game and a dedication to helping our athletes succeed both on and off the court, we can’t wait to see the impact Coach Milson will bring,” school officials said via social media. “Let’s give (him) a warm welcome and get ready for an incredible season ahead.”
4
Following its showing at the Citrus League girls golf championships, winning both the team and individual titles, The First Academy was the No. 1 team in the most recent FHSAA rankings.
5Foundation Academy baseball player Barak Boston has announced his commitment to play college baseball at the United States Military Academy at West Point.
“I want to give all glory to God for putting His hedge of protection on my life and anointing me with my athletic ability, making all this possible,” Boston wrote on social media. I want to thank my family, friends, pastors and coaches for their love, support and (the) time invested in me, to make me who I am today. I’m beyond grateful for the opportunity to play baseball at the Division I level and excited for this next chapter in my life. Go Army, beat Navy!”
SWISS ARMY WOLVERINE
From playing quarterback, receiver and defensive back; returning kicks and punts; and even being named Homecoming king, there’s not much Windermere’s Bryce Speed hasn’t done on the field.
SAM ALBUQUERQUE
SPORTS EDITOR
Here’s the scenario: Windermere High football leads the Colonial Grenadiers by two points with less than a minute to play. Colonial has the ball in its own half of the field and is about to go for it on fourth down in the hopes of getting into field goal range to snatch victory from the Wolverines.
For Windermere, a stop on this down means its offense can get back
on the field in victory formation and run out the clock for the win.
Enter Wolverines senior Bryce Speed.
Beyond having one of the coolest names a football player can have, Speed is the most versatile player on the Windermere roster, and despite not playing a down at defensive back during the resumed Week Three makeup game, coach Riki Smith sent Speed in at cornerback for this final play. For context, on previous plays
SEE SPEED’S PAGE 3B
WEEK EIGHT SCHEDULE
THURSDAY, OCT. 10
All Oct. 10 games have been postponed because of Hurricane Milton.
n Dr. Phillips (6-0) vs. East Ridge (3-3) n Lake Buena Vista (2-3) at Davenport (2-4) n Olympia (2-4) at Celebration (2-4) n West Orange (5-1) at West Port (1-6) n Windermere (6-0) vs. Oak Ridge (4-2)
FRIDAY, OCT. 11 n 7 p.m. CFCA (2-3) vs. Cornerstone Charter (6-2) n 7 p.m. Foundation Academy (2-4) at Indian Rocks Christian (2-4) 7 p.m. The First Academy (6-1) at Holy Trinity Episcopal (2-3) n 7:30 p.m. Legacy Charter (1-6) at Bell Creek Academy (1-6)
MONDAY, OCT. 14
n 6 p.m. Horizon (0-6) vs. South Lake (3-3)
Editor’s note: Schedule as of press time Tuesday, Oct. 8.
Horizon girls wins first meet of season
After a meeting between coach Anthony Barnes and his Horizon girls cross-country team, the Hawks had a historic outing and won its first team meet of the season.
SAM ALBUQUERQUE SPORTS EDITOR
After sixth-, fourth-, second- and two third-place team finishes to start the 2024 season, the Horizon High Hawks girls cross-country team, by most measures, was having a stellar run during the regular season. That is, until you compare them to the Horizon boys team, which started the regular season winning five consecutive meets. Anthony Barnes, coach of both the girls’ and boys’ teams at Horizon, didn’t understand the discrepancy. It’s not like his boys team is much more talented or determined, so why
Ocoee High’s Joshua Guerrier, a three-star athlete committed to Pitt, has done it all for the Knights football team this season in the hopes of bringing home a state title. Page 2B.
Windermere football’s Bryce Speed can do it all on the gridiron for the Wolverines.
Courtesy of Horizon High
Sam Albuquerque
Joshua Guerrier
With 755 total yards gained and four touchdowns, to go along with 42 total tackles (six for a loss), two sacks and an interception over seven games, Ocoee High football’s Joshua Guerrier has taken the concept of doing whatever your team needs to win to another level in his senior season. Guerrier, a three-star prospect committed to play college ball at Pitt next season, has lined up at quarterback, receiver, kick returner, punt returner, cornerback, safety and linebacker for the Knights in pursuit of bringing a state championship back to Ocoee in his final high school football season.
To achieve that goal, the 5-foot11, 170-pound athlete will be a crucial part of Ocoee’s approach in every phase of the game. Given his dynamic abilities with the ball in his hands on offense and in the return game, as well as in his pursuit of the ball on defense, Guerrier’s play could be a major reason why the Knights make a deep playoff run.
How does it feel to be named Athlete of the Week?
It feels good to be named Athlete of the Week — definitely an honor.
What do you like the most about football?
I like going out there and showing what I can do as an athlete.
What is your goal for the rest of this season, for yourself and the team?
All I want from this season is to win a championship with my team.
What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned from football?
Definitely to just try and be humble.
Is there someone after whom you try to model your game?
When I play receiver, I try to model my game after Stefon Diggs and, on defense, a guy like Mike Sainristil.
What is your favorite football memory?
My freshman season, when I got to play with my cousins, Charles Pierre and Jeremiah Cadet, at Ocoee.
What is your go-to pre-game meal?
Nothing specific; I’ll eat anything good.
What is your go-to pre-game hype song?
Pretty much any song by Chief Keef or Hotboii.
What is your favorite non-football hobby?
I love to play basketball when I get the chance.
What are three things you would take with you to a deserted island?
I’d take a first aid kit, a sword and a torch.
What is your favorite movie?
My favorite movie is “Ready Player One.”
If you could have dinner with one person — dead or alive — who would it be? Why? Honestly, I’d want to have dinner with my grandma. I don’t really have a reason why.
If you could go back in time to a specific period in history, when and where would you go? Why?
I’d want to go back to the early 1900s to see how everything evolved into what it is today. Looking back, what piece of advice would you give your younger self? I would tell myself to just get going.
If you could ask your future self a question, what would it be?
I’d ask myself, what now?
Who is your favorite superhero?
Has to be Superman; he’s too
Who is your favorite supervilPlankton from SpongeBob.
If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why? It would definitely be flying, because I want to explore the
Where would you go if you could travel to three places in the world? I want to visit Venice, Paris and New
If you could be an animal for a day, which one would you be? I’d want to be an eagle. Does pineapple belong on pizza? Yes, I think so.
Foundation girls volleyball tops
Windermere Prep
On the night the Windermere Prep girls volleyball team, families and friends celebrated the Lakers’ Senior Night, the visiting Foundation Academy Lions came onto campus and snatched the victory for themselves.
The first set saw the two sides wrestle back and forth for control before the Lions picked up the win by two points, 25-23, during the Oct. 3 match.
The Lakers (6-14) came back to take the second set, 25-19. But in the third set, Foundation took the game by the scruff of the neck, closing out the best-of-five series with back-to-back wins, 25-15 and 25-18, to claim the 3-1 victory.
SAM ALBUQUERQUE
Attitude is everything for Hawks
weren’t the girls finishing races like the boys and claiming wins?
Barnes was determined to find out, so he held a team meeting and wasn’t leaving until he learned what he could do better as a coach.
“At first, they didn’t want to share anything with me, any feedback, so I basically said, ‘No, we’re not leaving practice until you all tell me what I can do better to help you,’” Barnes said. “I wanted them to understand that their perspective was that important to me, to this team and that it’s OK to tell me that I needed to coach them differently. I wasn’t going to freak out and get mad. I was just literally trying to help them achieve their goals.”
The two sides made a breakthrough during that meeting and agreed on a couple of key changes leading up to the Hawks’ latest meet, the Harmony Longhorn Invitational.
“They were sincerely frustrated, but not mad at me, is a good way to phrase it,” Barnes said. “I basically told them that I believe and trust them and asked how I could do better. And they came up with some
ideas and suggestions regarding adding more variety to our training to make it less monotonous or mundane, and I basically applied that thought process.”
As a result, Horizon won its first team meet of the season, with a historic showing. The Hawks established a school record time as a team of 107:06.25 — almost two minutes faster than the mark set in 2023.
On the individual front, the Hawks were led by sophomore Abigayle White, who claimed the top spot in the individual portion of the meet with a time of 19:19.08, while Joslyn Armstrong finished seventh after posting a personalbest time of 20:38.99. Maryn Whitesell finished ninth with a time of 21:23.33, and Madelyn Schwarzmueller finished 15th with a time of 22:04.26.
However, if you ask Barnes, the breakthrough his runners felt on the course was not because of the updated training regimen. Instead, it was all about the trust they developed in Barnes and one another, as well as the ownership the group took of the program.
“Obviously, we changed a couple of workouts after our meeting,”
Barnes said. “We still did the same things, just in a slightly different variation, but it was their attitudes and their effort that was the difference, in my opinion. There was definitely an improvement as a team overall because I feel like they have a bigger sense of ownership, knowing they can trust me to listen to them.” Barnes knows this win was a big moment for his team, as they ramp up for the postseason. However, he is cautioning himself and his runners to not let this moment end here but instead to keep the momentum going.
“We’re not sure if these small changes are enough to keep the wins coming,” Barnes said. “We hope we keep winning, so we’ll continue to do some things that hopefully help that happen, but what is more important for us to maintain is that trust we’ve built. Obviously, there’s more trust now after this experience — which I think is the essence of all of sports, when the athletes have a feeling of ownership and say … they’re more bought in, they’re more trusting. Hopefully, that’s what’s happening with us and everything continues to get better as it did this past meet.”
Foundation setter Geiliany Del Valle has been lights out this season, setting the Lions’ single-game assists record twice.
Left: Windermere Prep junior outside hitter Isabella Johnson (No. 14) was a constant threat to score points against Foundation.
Foundation’s Amelia Donaho, left, Geiliany Del Valle and Lily Bower celebrated a point during their win over Windermere Prep.
Foundation senior outside hitter Madison Krause (No. 7) snuck a hit past the Windermere Prep double block.
Speed’s skillset crucial to Windermere’s success
that drive and the ones prior, Colonial attempted to throw the ball in the direction of Wolverines DB CJ Bronaugh, and, well, the Grenadiers quickly found out that unless you have a Power 4 level receiver lining up opposite Windermere’s 6-foot-1, 175-pound lockdown corner — with offers from Oklahoma, Tennessee, FSU and others — you’re probably not going to get much going in the passing game on Bronaugh’s side of the field.
LAST WEEK’S RESULTS
TUESDAY, OCT. 1
West Orange (5-1), 13 Evans (4-2), 39
Dr. Phillips (6-0), 34 Lake Nona (3-3), 7
Lake Buena Vista (2-3), 28 Cypress Creek (0-6), 13
FRIDAY, OCT. 4
Foundation Academy (2-4), 10 Eustis (1-5), 14
HIGHLIGHTS: The Lions of Foundation Academy fell on the road in this Week Seven matchup in heartbreaking fashion after giving up a touchdown to the Panthers with 10 seconds left in the ball game.
Foundation senior and two-way player Steven Grecco scored the Lions’ lone TD of the night, taking a screen pass 29 yards to the house in the second half, while kicker Braedyn White hit a field goal to open up the scoring in the first half. Sophomore defensive back Cole Huntley grabbed an interception. UP NEXT: Foundation will be back on the road in Week Eight, as the Lions travel to Indian Rocks Christian (2-3).
The First Academy (6-1), 42 Rabun Gap-Nacoochee (5-2, GA), 49
HIGHLIGHTS: In a showdown between two Southeastern high school football powerhouses, The First Academy Royals fell to visiting Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School, 4942, after Eagles quarterback Gavin Owens found receiver Josh Buckhalter on a check down, which he took 45 yards for the game-winning touchdown with 36.8 seconds left to play.
“Tonight showed that we’re a good football team,” TFA coach Jeff Conaway said following the loss.
“We are fast, we’re physical, and we’ve proven that we can play with anybody. This was a one-score game that came down to a touchdown late in the fourth quarter, which could have gone in either direction. But I think what we proved is that we are a very good football team.”
In this clash of high school football titans, both offenses were on full display as the two programs combined for 91 total points. The Royals (6-1) offense was led by a balanced attack, with 40 runs and
Naturally, on the fourth down attempt, Colonial attempted to pass the ball to the opposite side of the field, where Speed was now playing for the first time that night — having lined up solely at receiver during the rest of the game.
From the outside, the move to slot Speed into the game in such a crucial moment could have seemed risky, but for Smith, it was a no-brainer.
“I’ve been coaching for a long time, and Bryce Speed is one of the best players that I’ve coached,” Smith said. “He can play every (where):
34 passes. Senior QB Salomon Georges Jr. led the aerial approach with 345 passing yards on 24-of-34 passing with three passing touchdowns. Junior receiver Demetrice McCray caught eight passes for 157 yards, while senior wideout and Furman commit Evan James snagged seven catches for 122 yards with one TD. Senior running back Dane Thompkins caught five passes for 40 yards and had one receiving touchdown to go along with his two rushing TDs and 49 yards on 15 carries.
Georges Jr. also added 48 yards on the ground and a rushing TD, while sophomore back Jaelyn Powell ran for 74 yards on 11 carries.
Despite the 533 total yards gained by the Royals’ offense, it wasn’t enough to top the Eagles (5-2).
“Depending on who you talk to, 42 points might be a lot, but it wasn’t enough tonight, and we’re going to take that personally, because we had opportunities to score more than 42,” Conaway said. “We believe we’re an offense that should not get stopped, and so we’re going to grow from this and figure out why we didn’t execute at the level that we wanted tonight and get better. But I definitely think when we go back and look at this game, it’s going to expose some things that we can grow from and if we do grow from it, we’ll be so much better when it matters.”
On defense, TFA struggled to stop the Rabun Gap offense led by Owens, the Eagles’ junior three-star QB, Marshall Pritchett, a four-star tight end and North Carolina commit, and Bo Walker, a four-star running back and Georgia commit.
“I thought we let the quarterback make plays on third and long in the second half that hurt us,” Conaway said. “He’s a good quarterback and good quarterbacks do that, but if we could have just made one of those plays to get them off the field and maybe interrupt one of those drives, who knows how this game ends. But when you play an offensive line like that with a Georgia commit at running back and a quarterback that can make plays like him, it’s going to happen. Ultimately, I’m very proud of our guys for battling but we just have to clean up some things and get some stops.”
UP NEXT: Next up for the Royals is their last Class 1A, District 6 — which they’ve already won after beating Orlando Christian Prep in Week Six — opponent of the season, the Holy Trinity Episcopal Academy Tigers. TFA will travel to Melbourne to face HTEA in Week Eight.
Legacy Charter (1-6), 0
Orangewood Christian (4-4), 73
HIGHLIGHTS : Legacy Charter struggled to slow down the Orangewood Christian rushing attack and fell to the Rams 73-0 at home. Orangewood ran the football for 173 yards on 25 carries
corner, receiver, quarterback, slot, punt returner, kick returner. … He’s just awesome and when we needed a play, (I told him): ‘Hey, go to corner,’ and he gets the pick.”
Just as Smith drew it up — knowing Colonial would look opposite Bronaugh — the pass went to Speed’s assignment, and the senior iced the game for the Wolverines with an interception. Windermere (6-0) wins, 14-12.
SPEED’S THE STANDARD
Not only did Speed show his Swiss army knife-like versatility at that moment, which has proven to be crucial throughout Windermere’s special season, but also he showed the type of culture Smith has developed over the past three seasons.
To boil it down, the Wolverines football program is built on the trust Smith and his coaching staff have developed with their players. And again, Speed is a perfect microcosm of that culture.
In Smith’s tenure at Windermere, beyond caring about his players and developing genuine relationships with them, one of the philosophies he’s implemented that has helped him earn the trust of his players is moving them around to positions he believes best suit them as players and the team.
Coming into the 2024 season, Smith applied the same thought process to Speed, his returning starter at quarterback.
“For (Bryce), to play at the next level, he’s going to be a corner or slot receiver,” Smith said. “And I felt, with him being a senior, I had to put him in that situation and give him that opportunity, so he could flourish and (have the chance to) play at the next level.”
Most high school students cannot comprehend the idea of not being the starting quarterback in their senior year after starting under center the previous two seasons.
Speed, however, is not like most high-schoolers, and his response to Smith was simple: “I just told coach that whatever he thinks will help the team the most, that’s what I want to do,” he said regarding Smith’s approach about a possible change in positions. “I was all-in for it, because we thought it would help the team win, and it did. That’s all I wanted.”
As Speed said, the decision to make the move has proven to be the right one, as the undefeated Wolverines are rolling.
From Smith’s perspective, the shift is working according to plan, as Speed’s skills as a WR, DB, and returner have been on full display this season. The senior athlete leads Windermere with 920 all-purpose yards, seven total touchdowns and two interceptions on the year.
“He’s having an outstanding season,” Smith said. “He’s just a great kid (that) I have a special relationship with. (Given) his background and what he’s been through in life,
for him to be able to handle it the way he has and come out and play hard every single game, he’s just a really good football player. I’m hoping that he’ll get the opportunity to play at the next level.”
SPEED’S SECRET SAUCE
Although Speed dabbled playing different positions throughout his Windermere career, the success he has had following the transition from QB to full-time athlete has been a bit of a surprise to those on the outside of the program.
But for those who have seen Speed operate, his football IQ alone gave them certainty that he would fit into his new role like a glove and develop instant chemistry with new starting quarterback Jack Reilly.
“(He) and Jack clicked really quickly, and it was just a blessing,” Smith said. “Speed is the heartbeat of this team; he makes the engines go.”
Given Speed’s experience under center, it’s no wonder he quickly became Reilly’s favorite target.
“It’s been great learning and playing with Jack,” Speed said. “Knowing this offense and what a quarterback is looking for when you drop back, I sort of know where Jack wants to place the ball. Because of that, I have a good sense of where he wants me to be on my routes. We’ve been able to really build trust, not just me, but the entire receiving corps has that trust with Jack now.”
with six touchdowns on the night and the Rams’ defense also added a pair of interceptions to stifle the Eagles’ offense.
Windermere Prep (1-4), 20 First Academy, Leesburg (3-4), 38
HIGHLIGHTS: The Lakers went on the road to Leesburg and fell to the Eagles of First Academy, Windermere Prep’s fourth loss of the season.
UP NEXT: After an off-week, the Lakers will host Duval Charter (1-6) in Week Nine for its homecoming game and senior night at 6 p.m. Oct. 18.
SATURDAY, OCT. 5
Ocoee (5-2), 22 Hudson (2-5), 16
HIGHLIGHTS: On a rare Saturday high school football game, Ocoee High (5-2) defeated the visiting Hudson High Cobras (2-5) in overtime.
The Knights were led by its rushing attack, which ran for 292 total yards, with senior running back Jamarian Robinson gaining 206 rushing yards on 29 carries (7.1 yards a carry) — scoring both of Ocoee’s rushing touchdowns on the night. Along with its stifling defense — which recorded five tackles for loss, two sacks, two interceptions and a fumble recovery — the Ocoee rushing attack was a key factor in snatching this overtime victory from Hudson. Sophomore starting quarterback Onrique Archie, who has thrown for 924 yards with nine touchdowns this season, missed the game due to an injury, which resulted in the Ocoee offense only throwing the ball 22 times for 60 passing yards, compared to its 292 yards on 48 rush attempts.
UP NEXT: The Knights are off in Week Eight but will return to action at Winter Park High in Week Nine, Oct. 18.
UP NEXT: The Eagles will face Bell Creek Academy (1-6) on the road in Week Eight.
Sam Albuquerque
Watching Wolverines senior athlete Bryce Speed block from the receiver spot, you’d never guess he played quarterback for two seasons. CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1B
Photos by Sam Albuquerque
The First Academy football defensive back Devin Jackson trailed back in coverage during the Royals’ 49-42 loss to Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School.
Royals athlete Danny Odem squeezed past two Rabun Gap defenders.
TFA quarterback Salomon Georges Jr. scrambled away from Rabun Gap defenders.
At
AMANDA LEWIS WINDERMERE ELEMENTARY PTO
Amanda Lewis is a member of the Windermere Elementary School PTO and serves on the organization’s fundraising and AR prize committees. She is the chair of the spring family barbecue and is the room parent for both her son’s and daughter’s classes. Besides Windermere Elementary PTO work, Lewis owns a childcare facility on the east side of town and works to promote socialemotional development.
What brought you to your school?
Our family moved to Windermere in 2020 and has had an amazing experience in this active and helpful community. My oldest started attending Windermere Elementary School in 2022 for kindergarten and has loved every minute of it.
What do you love most about your school?
I absolutely love the feel of having a village to raise the children at Windermere. Parents are welcomed and appreciated at the school, and our PTO dedicates countless hours to helping to support our amazing faculty and staff.
What is the most rewarding part of your position with PTO?
Being inspired and supported by all of the other parents there whose sole mission is to uplift and serve the school, students and staff. I have never met a group of families who are so generous with their time, money and energy.
How have you helped the PTO with its fundraising committee?
My role in PTO is mostly to support what the PTO board decides is a priority. This fundraising season, we emailed businesses throughout the West Orange community and got corporate sponsors and had rallies, signs and social-media posts explaining to all of our fami-
REPORT CARD
POSITION: Member of PTO fundraising and AR prize committees TIME AT SCHOOL: Two years
lies where their money goes. I have found that once they realize all of the things PTO helps support and fund throughout the school year, everyone is very generous!
Who influences you?
I am influenced daily by the other wonderful parents, staff and students at WES. Everyone joins together daily to make sure the learning environment is fun, loving and constantly striving to improve.
Who was your favorite teacher when you were in school? Why?
When I was in elementary school, my most memorable teacher was Mrs. Rich, my first-grade teacher. I remember she wore skirt suits every day and somehow never looked wrinkled! She was always soft-spoken and structured; we always knew what was coming next, and we operated as a mini community within the classroom with responsibilities of our own.
What is your favorite children’s book and why?
My favorite children’s book right now is “Dear Girl.” It in an inspiring book reminding our little girls to be strong in who they are and confident to stand out. It is a series of short statements telling them it is OK to raise their hand, dress how they want, dance a little and just be who they are. In our crazy world today, I want both my son and daughter to know we should support each other in all that we do and be OK being different!
If you could dine with any famous person, past or present, who would it be and why?
I would have to say Taylor Swift! My family is a bunch of Swifties, and I love watching my children be inspired by a strong woman who promotes empowering woman in this world.
If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?
To slow down time; there are just not enough hours in the day to feel like I have accomplished all that I want to. I also feel like I blink and my children grow an inch and have started a new stage.
If you could only listen to three bands or artists, who would they be and why?
Obviously, Taylor Swift; also I’d have to say Thomas Rhett and Zach Bryan, because I find their music fun to listen to, as well as they send a positive message into the world.
What is your favorite holiday and why?
I love Thanksgiving, because it is a holiday completely about spending time with my family, eating and relaxing!
Who was your best friend when you were in school and why? Are you still in touch?
I made my best friend the first day of first grade. Brittany Chenoweth has been my best friend since we were 6 years old and is still one of my most favorite people!
What were your extracurricular activities as a student? Did you win any accolades or honors?
I played soccer, was a cheerleader and was in student government and on the student news network. I
How long have you been at your school and with OCPS?
I was raised in OCPS schools since kindergarten. I taught in OCPS schools for eight years before I had my children, and I have been involved with the PTO since my children started in 2022. AMY QUESINBERRY
Westly’s Mile kicks off at Tildenville Elementary
ANNABELLE SIKES NEWS EDITOR
Healthy West Orange and the American Heart Association kicked off their “Westly’s Mile” running program at 8 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 24, at Tildenville Elementary School in Winter Garden.
Westly’s Mile is a walking and running club designed to give elementary students in West Orange County a foundation of healthy habits.
HWO, fueled by the Foundation for a Healthier West Orange, facilitates the program in partnership with the AHA.
As part of last year’s program, students from 11 elementary
schools ran and walked a combined more than 24,000 miles, with Tildenville leading the way as the No.1 school, collecting more than 7,200 miles.
“Getting active is an important step to good health,” the organizations said in a press release. “Scientific research shows that kids who are regularly active feel better, have improved mental health, build self-esteem, and decrease and prevent conditions such as anxiety and depression. Programs like Westly’s Mile help build a foundation for better health by teaching students how to create healthy habits.”
This year, the program has expanded to 15 elementary schools,
Director Krista Carter said. “Encouraging healthy behaviors is core to our mission, and what a fun way to get our kids active and moving.”
The organizations will host several kickoff events over the next several weeks with students, as well as Orange County Public Schools faculty, staff and parents.
“As we enter our second century of lifesaving work, the American Heart Association remains dedicated to equipping students with the resources and education needed to build a foundation for longer, healthier lives,” AHA Executive Director Heather Maloney said. “Programs like Westly’s Mile help to make our in-school initiatives engaging and memorable for kids. Together, we are fostering a generation that prioritizes heart health and well-being.”
which include Castleview, Dr. Phillips, Independence, Maxey, Ocoee, Panther Lake, SunRidge, Thornebrooke and Water Spring.
“We are thrilled to be working with the American Heart Association as we grow the reach and impact of Westly’s Mile,” HWO
GET INVOLVED
n American Heart Association: heart.org n Foundation for a Healthier West Orange: fhwo.org n Healthy West Orange: healthywestorange.org
Courtesy photos
Fourth-grade students participating in the event included Luigi Pirella, left, David Uribe and William Rank.
Rii’Elle Charlton was all smiles at the Westly’s Mile event.
VELLES ‘VEL’ ALVIN HECKMAN DIED SEPT. 24, 2024.
Velles ‘Vel’ Alvin Heckman, age 88, of Gotha, Florida, passed of natural causes Sept. 24, 2024.
Vel was born July 27, 1936, in Allentown, Pennsylvania. Vel was the third-born child of Eugene and Esther Heckman, with surviving siblings Edward Heckman and Richard Heckman.
Vel graduated from Allentown High School in 1954; he then went on to the University of Florida as a member of the football team. Vel earned a degree in education, graduating in 1958.
Vel passed with his wife, Frances Geddings Heckman, by his side. The two were married in 1999. Vel is survived by the mother of his children, Barbara Platt Heckman (married 1959-1993); and their three children, son, Mike (Jan) Heckman, son Lee (Amy) Heckman and daughter Rena (Mark) Cross. Vel and Frances shared her children, son Sean (Kathleen) Jensen, daughter Amanda (David) Sprague. Altogether, Vel was loved by 11 grandchildren and sevengreat-grandchildren.
During Vel’s years at the University of Florida, he played at the tackle
Bobby Joe Brigmond, 87, of Clermont, died Wednesday, Oct. 2, 2024. Woodlawn Memorial Park and Funeral Home, Gotha.
Christopher (Chris) Motes, 46, of Winter Garden, died Saturday, Sept. 28, 2024, in Winter Garden. Winter Oak Funeral Home & Cremations, Winter Garden.
position for the Florida Gators football team. He was selected as a firstteam All-American in 1958. Vel was drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in the 10th-round, 119th overall pick. Vel was inducted into the UF Athletic Hall of Fame in 1968. After a short time at the pro football level, Vel worked as a teacher at the Florida Military Academy. He also served in the Army Reserve.
In 1962, Vel became the head football coach and athletic director at Lakeview High School. This is when Vel became known to Winter Garden as “Coach.”
Coaching led Vel into his own specialty advertising business, contracted through R.L. Hammette Promotional Products.
Vel especially loved spending his free time bass fishing and watching Gator football. Vel was a member of the Winter Garden Elks Lodge #2165 for 45 years, where he served as a trustee board member.
A celebration of life is to be announced at a later date.
Memorial donations in memory of Velles Alvin Heckman, in lieu of flowers, may be directed to The FL Elks Harry Anna Trust Fund-Florida Elks Youth Camp. Vel, “Coach,” had a huge impact on many lives and will be deeply missed by all.
The Rev. Bennie Lee Norris, 87, of Ocoee, died Sunday, Sept. 22, 2024, in Orlando. Winter Oak Funeral Home & Cremations, Winter Garden.
Marc H. Young, 71, died Thursday, Sept. 26, 2024. Collison Carey Hand Funeral Home, Winter Garden.
Volunteers were ready to award medals to participants at the finish line.
Run Among the Lakes enjoys record turnout
The annual Windermere 5K/10K Run Among the Lakes brought hundreds of runners and walkers to downtown Windermere Saturday, Oct. 5. The family-friendly event — with its dirt roads, century-old oaks and shimmering lakes — benefitted the town’s Parks and Recreation Department. After the race, participants could visit the various vendor booths. All runners and walkers received a commemorative finisher medal, and awards were given to the top three overall male and female, male masters, and female masters. A free kids run rounded out the day’s events.
— AMY QUESINBERRY
THE WINNERS
n 10K overall male: Fredison Costa, first; Shay Joyce, second; Andrac Van Bergeijk, third place n 10K overall female: Kelly Harris, first; Andreia Duraes Gomes, second; Kathryn McLaughlin, third n 10K overall masters male: Kevin Williams, first n 10K overall masters female: Mayra Zampar, first n 5K overall male: Chris White, first; Anthony Aseere, second; Peyton McAndrew, third n 5K overall female: Alison Chinn, first; Addison Stewart, second; Alyssandra Saleme, third n 5K overall masters male: Ricardo Rodrigues dos Santos, first n 5K overall masters female: Denisse Kindl, first
The morning began with the 10K runners shooting out of the corral.
Eric, right, and Jeanne Griffin participate in the Windermere race every year. This year, they finished first in their age group in the 5K. With them is Mary McNatt, center, one of their biggest supporters.
Works of HeART
Julissa Vega
The painter is inspired by the range of emotions humans feel.
The mission of the Winter Garden Art Association is to showcase, encourage and celebrate individual creativity and artistic expression among local artists.
West Orange County is teeming with artists whose talents range from visual to performing to literary arts. Whether they are expressing themselves with a microphone, paint brush and canvas, or the written word, artists and their creations give us avenues in which to imagine, dream and wonder.
In this feature, the Observer and the WGAA highlight local artists.
Julissa Vega, originally from Puerto Rico, is an artist who has navigated a multifaceted journey in her artistic career and is embarking on a renewed artistry. Her artistic path began during her early college years, which became a pivotal moment, igniting her passion for art. This passion was sparked when she was studying prelaw and took an elective course in art. This crucial decision marked the beginning of her exploration into the art world.
Vega’s experiences in other areas of art have contributed significantly to her growth and development. Notably, her professional experience in museums provided her with profound insights and a deep understanding of art from various cultural and historical perspectives.
In recent years, Vega has reconnected with her art. Her professional experiences and personal life events have matured her ideologies, beliefs and personal growth. These experiences have enabled her to approach her art with a renewed sense of purpose.
FAVORITE MEDIA
Vega’s use of mixed media is pivotal in expressing the thematic depth of her work. Mixed media allows her to experiment freely, incorporating painting, photography and sometimes everyday objects. This approach not only enriches her creative process but also transforms it into a trance-like exploration, enabling her intuition to flourish and give rise to organic momentum in her work.
FAVORITE THEMES
Vega embraces the unknown, exploring through intuition new avenues of creative expression and pursuing the boundaries of the possible. She is an artist deeply inspired by her personal journey, seeking to manifest the profound and intricate themes of life through her artwork. Her creative exploration revolves around several recurring subjects and concepts, including the essence of the self, the dynamic nature of transitions, the beauty of nature, the vastness of the universe, and the abstract expression of emotions and feelings.
Her art is steeped in personal experience. This connection to her inner self and the mysteries of life fuels her desire to delve deep into the thematic elements within her work.
EXPRESSION
“The act of creating art allows me to externalize my thoughts and emotions,” Vega said. “For example, through painting, I can engage in a playful exploration, much like a child, finding joy in the act of creation itself. Photography allows me to connect with the magic of capturing a moment and preserving it for eternity, offering a way to see the world through a different lens. Mixed media, on the other hand, provides me an expansive platform for exploratory possibilities, enabling me to blend various elements and follow my intuition until the final
piece resonates with my inner self.
“I believe art can act as a dialogue between me and the viewer, offering a glimpse into my world and inviting them to engage with and interpret my message,” she said.
EDUCATION Vega studied fine arts and art education at the University of Puerto Rico, Río Piedras Campus (1997). She also studied design and fashion at the Centromoda School of Design, Puerto Rico (2002). She maintained a lifelong passion for art — with more than 20 years of professional experience in education and development area with nonprofit organizations, working with institutions such as the Museum of Contemporary Art of Puerto Rico, the Museum of Art of Puerto Rico and the Luis Muñoz Marín Foundation. She currently works as an art educator, which allows her to align her professional and creative experience to inspire and guide children and young people — not only with their creative process but also by fostering their appreciation for art.
FAVORITE ARTISTS
“I admire the work of many artists,” Vega said. “I could mention, for example, the Italian Renaissance artist Michelangelo, whose masterpieces I had the opportunity to appreciate up close, and it is simply amazing how he captured humanity and vulnerability in every detail. Also, I admire the artistic work of Salvador Dali, as the surrealist movement attracts me for its artistic exploration of the subconscious. Lastly, I like the street art of British contemporary artist and activist Banksy for addressing social and political issues that I personally feel an affinity with, such as social injustice and those that afflict children.”
NOTABLE PLACES ON DISPLAY
“The best place — my mom’s home,” Vega said. “Also, at the ‘Museo del Calzado’ in Elda, Spain (2004).”
ACCOLADES AND AWARDS
“Art is subjective, and recognition validates effort and talent regardless,” Vega said. “Every time my work is accepted or invited to be part of an exhibition, it makes me feel honored and is synonymous with being awarded and recognized. Furthermore, if my artwork is able to generate dialogue and pleasure, it is the best recognition I could receive.”
Every holiday season for the past 27 years, Reading Reindeer has gifted new books to underserved families in West Orange County. This is only possible thanks to the continued support of our community.
If your business, school or group is interested in hosting a collection site for our 2024 book drive, please contact us at (407) 656-2121 or zari@orangeobserver.com for more information.
NEW Books, Monetary Donations & Drop-off Locations Needed
JULISSA VEGA
Julissa Vega’s professional experiences and personal life events have matured her ideologies, beliefs and personal growth.
THE WAYS WE WERE FROM THE WINTER GARDEN HERITAGE FOUNDATION
80 years ago
One of the landmarks of the Beulah district was laid in ashes when the Mack Reaves house was destroyed by fire, including the furnishings. The occupants were attending Sunday school. The house, 60 years old, was the birthplace of Dr. M.A. Reavers of Winter Garden.
The Winter Garden War price and Ration Board announced that those wishing to secure new A-books should mail in their applications.
Fishing was good on Lake Apopka, according to W.S. Pounds, who operated boats and had the lease of docks in Winter Garden.
A beautiful cluster of Hamlin oranges of the new crop was on display in the lobby at Edgewater Hotel. On one twig was 27 oranges the size of baseballs.
70 years ago
An advertisement in the Winter Garden Times read as follows:
Due to rising costs of barber supplies, effective Oct. 4, the price of haircuts will advance to $1 at the following shops — Bland Barber Shop, Reeves Brothers Barber Shop, W.E. Hammock Barber Shop, Brantley & Mims Barber Shop.
Hoyle Pounds, local chairman of the Boat-a-Cade from Kissimmee to Lake Okeechobee in Stuart or Fort Myers, urged anyone wanting reservations to contact him at once.
55 years ago
Charles W. McMillan, of Winter Garden, was presented a Lifetime Membership plaque in the Florida Sheriffs Association by Orange County Sheriff Dave Starr. Mrs. D. Pennington, of Winter Garden, announced the engage-
FROM THE ARCHIVES
This item ran in the Winter Garden Times some years ago. It features the Fighting Red Devils, which was the name of the school’s football team; the Red Devil served as Lakeview’s mascot for seven decades, representing both the high and middle schools.
The players are all identified. From L to R: Coach Cunningham, Earl Lau, Fred Wright, Carl Carter, Dan Smith, Henry Braswell, Guy King, Wilbur Connell, Ben Hull, Roland Wiygle, Arthur Ficquette, team captain Fred Tilden, captain-elect Enloe Charter, Clarence Willis, Charlie Connell, Roscoe Willis, Homer Jones, St. Clair Little and manager Mark Britt.
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.
ment of her daughter, Patricia Ann Jones, to Norman L. Dault, of Orlando.
50 years ago
Lakeview High School Principal Lester Dabbs Jr. was named principal of the new West Orange High School.
Clay Daniels and the Nashville Kats performed Wednesdays through Sundays at Ramada Inn West in Ocoee. The Rebels defeated the Hus-
tlers in the playoffs to become champions in the Senior Division of girls softball. Reba Varnadoe was manager of the team, and Joyce Williams was coach. Players were Heidi Britt, Carolyn Braziel, Cindy Varnadoe, Tanya Martin, Jane Fulmer, Cathy Norris, Muffet Britt, Pam Sith, Pam Easterday, Charlene Caperilla and Sandy Richards.
A three-bedroom, two-bath home of 2,600 square feet with a pool on about one acre of lake-
front property was listed in the classified advertisements for $62,500.
35 years ago
Real-estate advertisement: Commercial lot in prime location on West Highway 50, Winter Garden; 130 by 220 feet; excellent lot right next to Publix and Zayre shopping plaza and Hyde Park; perfect for coffee shop, etc. $180,000. Windermere Realty Inc., Barbara Merola, Realtor.
THROWBACK
THURSDAY
OCT. 12, 1989
Joe Predicto was a household name in West Orange County in the 1980s and ’90s, when The West Orange Times published a weekly football contest with cash prizes. Predicto selected a dozen or so college and pro football games, assessed their records and gave his opinion on who would win. Readers filled in the entry form and submitted it to the newspaper office; in case of a tie, Predicto always included a tie-breaking game. Do you remember Predicto’s real name? It was none other than Times sports editor John Maloney, who also wrote a fun feature called Maloney’s Baloney.
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OUT WITH IT! by Michael Schlossberg, edited by Jeff Chen
By Luis Campos
LOCAL MOTION
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.
Including:
• History of each municipality, interviews with local leaders and a calendar of can’t-miss events
• Round-up of local activities and ways to get involved
• Suggestions for date nights and family weekend excursions for every budget
A complete guide to public, private and charter schools, including preschools and options for students with special needs
Flip
But
October 18 through October 31 Downtown Winter Garden
Hay Maze at City Hall Halloween & Fall Decorations, Light Displays, & Photo Stations
Halloween Light Show on City Hall & Street Performances October 18, 19, 20, 25, 26, 27, 31 • 7-9 pm
And Lots More Downtown Halloween Fun!
