The First United Methodist Church of Winter Garden has been holding its Cookie Carnival for nearly 40 years, and this year the women’s group is adding cookie cookbooks to its fundraiser.
An assortment of homemade cookies will be available for $12 per box from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7. This year, the women are selling cookbooks with more than 120 cookie recipes for $15. The sale takes place in the fellowship hall on the northeast side of the church, 125 N. Lakeview Ave., Winter Garden. Cookbooks also can be purchased by calling the church office at (407) 656-1135 or emailing fumc@fumcwg.org.
HELP THE JCCF BRIGHTEN
CHRISTMAS
If you’re looking for a way to give back this holiday season, the Jimmy Crabtree Cancer Fund is collecting gift cards. All gift cards will be distributed by JCCF, with a handwritten note to families fighting cancer.
To donate, mail a check made out to JCCF to: JCCF, P.O. Box 770446, Winter Garden, FL 34777-0446. Gift cards will be collected through Dec. 12. Examples of gift cards given in the past include: Walgreens, CVS, Target, Walmart, Publix, Winn-Dixie, Ace Hardware, gas cards or Visa gift cards. For more information, visit JCCancerFund.org.
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The Winter Garden school is hosting the fundraiser to benefit the American Cancer Society. PAGE 8A.
Venardos soars with ‘Decade of Dreams’
As has been the case for the last seven years, the Venardos Circus celebrated Thanksgiving and the beginning of the holiday season in Horizon West.
The circus returned to Hamlin for a fiveday stint Nov. 27 through Dec. 1. During its 2024 tour, the circus celebrated 10 years with its show — “Decade of Dreams” — which featured death-defying stunts, amazing acrobatics, feats of strength, and of course, the circus’ signature humor and whimsy.
Ringmaster Kevin Venardos said the circus would be launching a second touring company in 2025 and attributes much of the success to communities such as Horizon West that have supported the operation for many years.
— MICHAEL ENG
Homes for the holidays
Eight Waves hosted its Holiday Tour of Homes event Nov. 23 in the Oakland Park area.
Now in its third year, the annual event invites local residents to explore incredible homes, each professionally decorated to capture the spirit of the season. Each home offered delicious dishes, crafted cocktails, live entertainment, special performances and raffle prizes.
All proceeds from the event benefit Eight Waves, a local nonprofit in Winter Garden, which offers programs dedicated to helping children overcome poverty through meaningful experiences, tutoring, mentorship and essential supplies.
Sponsors for this year’s event included Crooked Can Brewing Company, Healthy West Orange, Orlando Health, Family Church, the West Orange Dream Center and Observer Media Group.
For more information on Eight Waves or to make a donation, visit eightwaves.org.
— ANNABELLE SIKES
NEWS BRIEFS
NEW SUSHI EATERY ROLLS INTO WESTSIDE SHOPPES
Just weeks after Toasted announced the closing of its Horizon West location, a new restaurant is slated to take its place. Signs for Kingdom Sushi now are installed at 6506 Old Brick Road, Windermere, the Westside Shoppes spot formerly occupied by the fast-casual grilled cheese restaurant.
The Horizon West Kingdom Sushi will be the company’s fifth location. The business opened its first location in 2019 in Orlando and expanded to Boca Raton, Jacksonville and Tampa.
According to its website, the restaurant offers all-you-can-eat sushi and its menu includes sushi, sashimi and other Japanese dishes.
Toasted opened its Lakeside Village location in April 2018 but announced its closure Nov. 10.
“Unfortunately, the Windermere Toasted location has closed,” restaurant officials announced on social media. “We are thankful for all of our loyal customers and the time here. We will still be happy to serve you at our UCF or Winter Park location.” Toasted is the latest of several Horizon West-area restaurants that have closed. Others include BurgerFi, Chick ‘n Cone, Loop Cafe, Persimmon Hollow Brewing Company and HUMBL.
OPERA ORLANDO RECEIVES GRANT
Opera Orlando received a $120,000 grant from Dr. Phillips Charities, underwriting the opera’s upcoming production of Massenet’s “Cendrillon,” based on the Cinderella fairy tale and presented in the original French at Steinmetz Hall at Dr. Phillips Center while also being presented in the schools and in the community with a special English adaptation.
Dr. Phillips Charities has been a longtime supporter of the arts in Central Florida. The organization was pivotal in funding the opera’s home venue of Steinmetz Hall at Dr. Phillips Center and in supporting the rebirth of opera in Orlando when Opera Orlando launched in 2016. This grant will enable the opera to continue its mission of better integrating the art form of opera into the community.
“Cendrillon” is part of the opera’s MainStage series at Steinmetz Hall this season, and a shortened, English adaptation of the opera also will be presented in local schools, children’s hospitals including AdventHeatlh Children’s Hospital and Nemours Children’s Hospital, and other community venues.
“Words cannot express our gratitude to Dr. Phillips Charities for this amazing gift and their outstanding philanthropy to our community and to our organization over the years,” Opera Orlando General Director Gabriel Preisser said.
Mandy Aitichou, left, and Wendy Reed enjoyed watching the setting sun in the backyard of one of the homes on the tour.
Right: A talented musician played the saxophone for guests at one of the homes.
Sara Meyer, founder and executive director of Eight Waves, left, and David Buckles, board member for Eight Waves, shared words about the nonprofit’s mission at the last house.
Eight Waves volunteer Danykqua Faulk, left, and board members Erika Feazell, Scott Spragg and Margaret Price helped greet guests before the start of the event.
Christmas carolers greeted guests at the check-in tables before the start of
Salhab, left, Lyric Brunson, Londyn Mosley and Arijahinae Ow-
volunteered at the Eight Waves event.
Local captivates in ‘Drawn to Life’
ANNABELLE SIKES
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Winter Garden resident Emily Carragher’s obsession with Cirque du Soleil started when she was only a child attending youth circus camp. It became her dream to be an original character for Cirque when she was just 13 years old.
Now, Carragher’s dream has come true, as she has helped to create Miss Hesitation, the villain character in the “Drawn to Life” show presented by Cirque du Soleil and Walt Disney World.
The show, which opened Nov. 18, 2021, celebrated its third anniversary last month.
“Drawn to Life” is a contemporary circus performance featuring acrobats, gymnasts and other skilled performers. It’s a collaboration between Cirque du Soleil, Walt Disney Animation Studios and Walt Disney Imagineering and is inspired by Disney’s animated film productions and the process of animation.
“It’s pretty magical to think that a little girl who grew up in a small country town in New York could literally live the dream that she wanted since she was 13,” Carragher said. “When I first saw Cirque, I didn’t even really know what it was that I was watching, but I just knew I wanted to be a part of it, and I didn’t stop until I was. It’s really cool to look back and say to my 13-year-old self that every single thing was worth it, because I did it in the end. I made it. It’s not always easy or a fun ride, but the hard work you put in does come back and becomes the foundation for you to be able to follow your dreams.”
PUTTING PEN TO PAPER
Carragher is originally from New Paltz, New York. She earned a bachelor’s degree in screenwriting from The State University of New York at Purchase and worked as a script supervisor for films, videos and television shows.
While in college, she also attended clown workshops and went to clown school. Only a month after graduating college, she took to the road with Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey. She also worked for Fossett’s Circus, “Varekai” by Cirque du Soleil and Big Apple Circus.
Carragher learned about “Drawn to Life” when she still was working on “Varekai.” She said the challenge of blending Cirque with Disney is what attracted her to the show. Her partner also works on the show.
“To get the opportunity to have both of those worlds come together and make something special that’s never happened before, I just couldn’t say no,” she said. “When I found out I was playing the bad guy, it only made the show more enticing.”
“Drawn to Life” is performed in a custom-built, freestanding theater originally constructed for its predecessor “La Nouba,” which closed in 2017 after 19 years.
In March 2017, Cirque and Disney announced “La Nouba” would host its final performance Dec. 31, 2017. On Dec. 18, 2017, Disney announced Cirque would produce a new show to replace “La Nouba” that would “draw its inspiration from Disney’s heritage of animation.”
Only three days before the first scheduled performances, Cirque announced March 17, 2020, that the opening of the show would be postponed because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Cirque had to lay off 95% of its staff worldwide.
In July 2020, with no new opening date announced, tickets were made available for purchase on the Cirque website for performances beginning Nov. 5, 2020. In August 2020, performances through Feb. 10, 2021, were removed from sale, and ticket-holders were refunded. On Aug. 17, 2021, Disney announced tickets would go on sale for performances beginning Nov. 18, 2021. Finally, the show had its first public performance Nov. 18, 2021, as part of Walt Disney World’s 50th anniversary celebration.
Written and directed by Michel Laprise, with Fabrice Becker as director of creation, the show is a result of years of research and extraordinary collaboration that included extensive visits to Disney theme parks, Walt Disney Archives, Walt Disney Imagineering, Walt Disney Animation Studios, Pixar Animation Studios and The Walt Disney Family Museum, as well as hands-on work between Disney animators and Cirque.
“Drawn to Life” follows the story of Julie, a courageous and determined girl who discovers an unexpected gift left by her late father: an unfinished animation piece. Guided by a surprising pencil, she embarks on an inspiring quest sprinkled with her Disney childhood memories. Through this journey, she learns to imagine new possibilities and animate the story of her future.
The show plays twice a day, five days a week at Disney Springs.
Carragher said the “Drawn to Life” story is special, because she feels people don’t expect it to be so emotional and impactful.
“I don’t think people really anticipate seeing that when they go to see a Cirque show, but the Disney element really makes it special,” she said. “There’s a really clear narrative of the story we tell. I think people are shocked that they’re crying at the end of a Cirque show, but it happens every night. I think there’s moments in the show that touch people so much that they can’t help but to react.”
‘THERE’S NOTHING LIKE IT’
As a member of the show from the very beginning, Carragher helped to create and originate her own character.
“I was responsible for taking the idea from the writer/director and making it real and tangible,” she said. “The director has input in a way where he is steering and directing you, but at the same time it’s up to the artist to make it real and to flesh it out. We want to create characters that others see themselves in. Everyone has a villain. Everyone gets frustrated, feels fear and gets angry. My character is the personification of doubt for anyone. Everyone knows that feeling and has that critical voice in their head. I’m just that voice personified.”
In “Drawn to Life,” both Miss Hesitation and Julie have a story arc and grow up together throughout the performance.
“For any performer, it just changes everything about how you see yourself when you play the villain,” Carragher said. “It changes the way you look at other villains. You watch how a lot of them really are the hero, but they’re just misunderstood, or they’re the hero with a mask on. I’m lucky, because my villain character gets redemption at the end of the story, and not all villains have that opportunity. I get to come full circle with the character. It’s awesome.”
Carragher tries to always wave at one child every show, as she knows how much that small gesture changed her life. She said the storytelling is what has kept her with the industry throughout the years.
For more information on “Drawn to Life” or to purchase tickets, visit cirquedusoleil.com/drawnto-life.
“There’s no other such a grandiose scale of the meeting of circus and theatrical arts put together. This is a special opportunity for me, because it’s also Disney. It’s even more of a responsibility to tell a good story.”
One of Carragher’s favorite parts about performing is watching the audience and their reactions.
“We do the same show every night, but the audience is always different,” she said. “The audience is what makes the show special, because it’s a dialogue between us on stage and them. They’re understanding and telling us how they’re responding to the story and how they’re emotionally involved in the story.”
Carragher said the show has taught her to be patient.
“There’s a lot to be said about letting something happen rather than pushing something to happen,” she said. “Letting it grow organically and become what it is. What I’ve taken away from that as a person has changed me, and what I’ve taken away from that as an artist has made me a better performer.”
Carragher said the continuous growth and learning is what has kept her with the show throughout the years.
“We’re still working, we’re still discovering, we’re still playing,” she said. “The show grows organically — like it’s a living, breathing thing. The show’s health relies on how well the people on stage know the story and know what they’re doing to make it clear for the audience to come with them on the journey. I feel like every show is an opportunity to see, learn and feel something brand new.” When not working, Carragher enjoys watching films, reading and writing, as well as spending time with her dogs.
Carragher would like to stay with Cirque in the future, possibly in additional capacities. She said she would love to help other clowns succeed, learn to be funny and impact others’ lives.
achievements. To contact us, email to Michael Eng, meng@OrangeObserver.com.
West Orange Times meets the legal requirements to publish legal and public notices in Orange County per F.S. 50.011 USPS Periodicals
WEST ORANGE TIMES
Courtesy photos
Emily Carragher portrays Miss Hesitation in ‘Drawn to Life.’
“It’s pretty magical to think that a little girl who grew up in a small country town in New York could literally live the dream that she wanted since she was 13.” — Emily Carragher
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
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
Local school laces up for Relay for Life
AMY
QUESINBERRY PRICE COMMUNITY EDITOR
UCP West Orange Charter School is raising funds for the American Cancer Society in a fun way by hosting its first Relay for Life event Friday, Dec. 6, at the school that serves students in pre-kindergarten through elementary school.
Classrooms have been competing to bring in the most money in recent weeks through a variety of fundraisers. In one challenge, students took home large paper ribbons to decorate and bring back to the school, accompanied by a donation of at least $1. The ribbons are being hung in a big glass window so students can see their artwork during drop-off and pick-up times.
To get the students excited about the relay, Malik Taylor, the school’s behavior interventionist and relay coordinator, has allowed them to throw a pie at his face and duct tape him to a wall to see if he would stick.
“Malik is the event lead and has done so much of this on his own,” said Julie Harris, senior development manager of ACS. “He’s a great educator and has a great heart for these kids.”
INAUGURAL WALK
This is UCP West Orange’s first time hosting a Relay for Life event.
“I would love to see it grow to the rest of the UCP sites,” Harris said. “I think that’s our big game plan for the future.”
The event is open the community, and folks are being encouraged to attend for a fun evening with friends and, at the same time, to raise money for ACS. The event will include contests and challenges, inflatable entertainment, music and more.
Local businesses and food trucks will be set up and have pledged a portion of their sales to the relay. Relay T-shirts will be sold, too.
“It’s going to be a great family event,” Harris said.
There is an opportunity for people to form a team or join one already established, or they can attend as individuals. Those who don’t register in advance can do so at the relay.
A track is being created in the parking lot where participants will walk laps throughout the event.
They are free to come and go and do not have to stay the entire five hours, although “the diehards will be there all day,” Harris said.
Sashes and pins will be given to survivors in attendance, including several members of the UCP West Orange staff. Taylor and Harris both got their first taste of the ACS Relay for Life during school — Taylor in high school and Harris in college.
Relay for Life is one of the largest and most impactful events for the American Cancer Society. It unites students, volunteers, advocates, survivors and caregivers, and it provides all in the name of supporting those impacted by the disease. Its mission is to raise funds to improve cancer survival, decrease the incidence of cancer, and improve the quality of life for cancer patients and their caretakers.
It is a community-based walkathon fundraising event for the American Cancer Society. Each year, more than 5,000 Relay for Life events take place around the world in local communities, on university campuses and as virtual campaigns. Currently, almost 4 million people take part in relay events in more than 5,000 communities in the United States. Relay for Life events have raised an estimated $5 billion to date.
IF YOU GO
RELAY FOR LIFE
WHERE: UCP West Orange Charter School, 1441 Winter Garden-Vineland Road, Winter Garden WHEN: 4:30 to 9:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 6
GOAL: $2,500
DETAILS: To join a team, purchase a luminaria or make a donation, visit relayforlife.org/ ucpwestorangefl
TEAMS
n Bright Dreams
n Lady Tea
n Kinder A-gainst Cancer
n Room 136 Warriors
n Ms. Clifford’s Class: Yes We Can!!!!
n Mrs. West’s Pre-K Funny Fireflies
n Mr. Malik’s Behavior Team
n Team Toddler
n Preschool A
n Ms. Desiree’s Little Scholars
n Ms. Dix’s Amazing Toddlers
n Mrs. Keisha’s Rockets
Attendees may take camping chairs for comfort and can add a table if they are planning a trackside fundraiser. Those wanting to sell chotchkes to raise additional money should contact Malik Taylor at Malik.Taylor@ucpcfl.org.
Another chance to donate is through the luminaria program.
Guests can purchase a paper bag in memory of or in honor of someone, and they are filled with tea lights and lined around the track. Sev eral special signature elements to recognize loved ones include the luminaria ceremony and the survi vor and caregiver walk.
n Mrs. Bea’s Busy Bees
n Mr. Brown’s Team
n Miss Frances’ Superstars
n Miss Coletta’s Pre-K Cure-
COUNTY LEVEL
County OKs Rex Groves RV Park
Commissioners approved the special exception request for the RV Park in the Lake Avalon Rural Settlement but delayed a verdict on a boat ramp in Sand Lake Sound.
MICHAEL
ENG EDITOR AND PUBLISHER
A decision on the Rex Grove RV Park led all November action taken by the Orange County Commission.
After months of debate, the Rex Groves RV Park on Nov. 19 finally earned its special-exception approval — albeit with one major concession.
The applicant Robert Ziegenfuss, represented by Old Florida Groves leaders Preston Hage and Jake Schrimsher, agreed to lower the campsites from 249 to 199. The project is located at 5872 Rex Drive, Winter Garden, in the Lake Avalon Rural Settlement.
The applicant also offered 13 additional conditions of approval:
n Exit lanes from the property shall be right out only, and 6-inch-tall curbing;
n A 6-foot-tall opaque fence installed along the entire western boundary;
n The quiet pool and associated amenities to be set back 50 feet from the western boundary;
n The dog park will be fenced with double-gated access;
n The owner will keep an updated record regarding lengths of stays; maximum stay will be no more than 28 consecutive days and cannot exceed 56 total days within a year. No permanent residents will be allowed;
n The RV park amenities and facilities usage and events will be limited to guests residing overnight;
n There will be staff on-site 24 hours per day, and there will be a secure method for after-hours entry;
n No full-facility PA system will be permitted;
n Fireworks and sparklers will be prohibited;
n Off-road vehicles and ATVs will be prohibited;
n Golf carts will be prohibited on Rex Drive and any public road;
n Check-in to the RV park will be no earlier than 10 a.m.; and
n The pine forest and citrus grove areas and agritourism activities must be maintained in good condition.
The applicant also will be required to participate in the cost of improving several roads, including Avalon Road from Schofield Road to Stoneybrook West Parkway; Summerlake Park Boulevard/Porter Road from Porter Road to Summerlake Groves Street; and Tilden Road from Avalon Road to Winter Garden-Vineland Road.
Settlement residents spoke both in favor of and against the project.
“Our goal is to keep the Lake Avalon Rural Settlement as rural as possible,” settlement resident Laurie Forrester said. “While an agritourism facility coupled with a campground may sound counter to this goal, I believe this is one of the best uses for this parcel compared to the other permissible agritourism options that would not require special exception.”
Although she is a longtime RVer, settlement resident Jane Ferguson spoke against the proposal.
“Two-hundred and 49 campsites is huge,” she said. “That’s a very large campground. … This definitely is not an agritourism overall kind of a place.”
Ferguson said because of its proximity to Disney World, the project would result in more traffic from visitors leaving the campgrounds daily to visit the theme parks.
Mayor Jerry Demings raised concerns regarding water and wastewater servicing the project. The applicant will have to come back before the commission to satisfy those issues.
IN OTHER NEWS
n Commissioners approved a request to increase the scope of the Lake Vista Village Planned Development from 1,438 resort hotel/timeshare units to 2,204 hotel rooms and 70,730 square feet of event space and 240,000 square feet of tourist commercial uses. The project is located on 49.7 acres north of World Center Drive and east of Interstate 4.
n The commission continued the proposal for an amendment to the Orlando World Resort Planned Development to 2 p.m. Jan. 28, 2025. The proposal is to increase the intensity of the project from 136 timeshare units to 342 timeshare units and increase the building height from 35 feet to 75 feet. The project is located north of West Irlo Bronson Memorial Highway, east of State Road 192 and south of Walt Disney World’s Animal Kingdom. It had been continued twice before.
SAND LAKE SOUND BOAT RAMP
After more than an hour of discussion and debate, the Orange County Commission on Nov. 19 decided to delay a decision regarding a proposal to build a semi-private boat ramp facility on Little Sand Lake in Meritage Homes’ Sand Lake Sound community in Dr. Phillips.
Meritage and the Sand Lake Sound Homeowners Association Inc. requested the facility to be built at 7565 Alpine Butterfly Lane, Orlando.
The proposal includes a 12-footwide boat ramp that extends 66 feet waterward of the normal high water elevation of Little Sand Lake. The HOA proposed to dredge 67.56 cubic yards of lake-bottom sediment within a 12-feet-wide-by-about-50feet-long channel at the end of the concrete ramp to provide for adequate water depth and navigation. Additionally, a companion boat
dock, as required by Orange County Code, would be constructed adjacent to the ramp.
The facility only would be open to Sand Lake Sound residents and their guests. Sand Lake Sound is a gated community that includes 77 singlefamily homes (60 with lake access and 34 with direct access to Little Sand Lake) and 106 townhomes, said Vivien Monaco, an attorney with Watson Sloane, who represented the HOA.
The boat ramp would be open from dawn to dusk, she said.
However, the ramp proposal has drawn criticism from neighboring communities, who were concerned the project would further open the channel between Little Sand Lake and Big Sand Lake.
Tim Hay, HOA president of the nearby 436-home Sand Lake Point community, spoke against the project. He said the channel already is large and deep enough for boats to navigate, and he and his neighbors already are experiencing flooding issues.
“The big problem I see is Little Sand Lake has a much higher natural high-water mark than Big Sand Lake,” he said. “We’re flooded on Big Sand Lake. Our environmental swales are underwater, and 50% of our boat docks are underwater, also. Homeowners in Sand Lake Sound want a high-water level, because then they can get through this channel. We don’t want a high-water level. So you’re going to have conflicts in the future.”
Monaco said the project would not open the channel further and offered to include that as a condition for approval.
The largest point of contention pertained to the original 2017 approval documents for the Sand Lake Sound community.
Kurt Kotzin, president of the 52-home Venezia of Orange County HOA, said according to a conservation area impact permit issued at that time, no community ramps were permitted.
“That should be enough to deny the application,” he said.
Several Sand Lake Sound residents spoke in favor of the project and said
they purchased their homes because of their proximity to the lake. Moreover, their homes include dock rights, but without a ramp, those rights are rendered useless, they said.
“We really want to have this boat ramp established and properly built,” Sand Lake Sound resident Tracy Chen said. “We purchased (our homes) … based on the inclusion of our dock rights … to Little Sand Lake. In this community, we have 34 properties … directly facing Little Sand Lake, and we have the dock rights. However, how do you have the dock rights without having a boat ramp that’s properly built?”
District 1 Commissioner Nicole Wilson questioned why the boat ramp wasn’t included at the time of the development’s approval.
“I feel really bad, because … the residents at Sand Lake Sound were sold something, a promise, and then the Board of County Commissioners in 2017 was also sold a promise,” Wilson said. “And those two promises were absolutely conflicting.”
During discussion, Wilson asked Monaco why the Sand Lake Sound HOA declined to participate in a public community meeting.
However, Monaco said the HOA did not decline but rather wanted to meet with Wilson and her staff first before scheduling a community meeting but was unable to do so.
“When the community meeting was requested, we did speak to your aides and said we would entertain a community meeting (and) we wanted to meet with you in person,” Monaco said to Wilson. “Unfortunately, I know that was a difficult time for you and that wasn’t possible.”
Monaco said the HOA wanted a chance to hear Wilson’s concerns before stepping into a community meeting.
Demings, who lives in close proximity to the proposed boat dock, suggested continuing the discussion to a later date. Wilson made the motion, and it passed.
Program offers mental-health curriculum in schools
AMY QUESINBERRY PRICE
COMMUNITY EDITOR
The Nurture Place has provided mental-health counseling to children in its Winter Garden office since 2014.
But, Angela Gonzalez, the executive director, knew there had to be a way to reach more young people in need of her nonprofit organization’s services.
The result is a collaboration with Orange County Public Schools and several West Orange schools, as well as with Edgewood Children’s Ranch. Two programs are offered: a therapeutic curriculum, which teaches young students social and life skills, and a one-on-one trauma therapy, which deals with deeper personal issues.
AT THE RANCH
Edgewood Children’s Ranch, a group home dedicated to providing a nurturing environment for children in need, reached out to Gonzalez last year requesting trauma-informed professionals experienced in handling complex developmental trauma. She realized more children could benefit from therapy sessions if therapists took the program to the ranch instead of the ranch sending just a few children to the counseling office.
“Our partnership with Edgewood Children’s Ranch allows us to reach children where they are, providing them with the support they desperately need,” Gonzalez said. “By bringing our services directly to the ranch, we’re breaking down barriers to access and making a real difference in these young lives.”
Each week, two therapists visit the ranch once and another makes two visits.
“They had a couple of kids who would get therapy, but now all of them get therapy,” Gonzalez said. “I feel very proud and happy that we get to do that.”
Gonzalez’s team assesses the program at the end of the semester to determine if the students should continue therapy or if others would rotate into the sessions.
In its first year of partnership, The Nurture Place provided 224 thera-
py sessions, helping ranchers with emotional regulation and healing — impacting about 16 families.
THERAPEUTIC CURRICULUM
Several public schools and a charter school also are working with The Nurture Place to deliver a therapeutic curriculum to students. Counselors and volunteers have worked with students at Maxey Elementary School for three-and-one-half years and Renaissance Charter School at Crown Point for two-and-one-half years. They started the six-week program at Tildenville Elementary School this year and are working to take it to Lakeview Middle School.
“The younger you start, the better it is,” Gonzalez said. “At Maxey, we see all the kindergartners and preschoolers. … We love them, and they love us. We take our social and life skills to the little ones in a fun and creative way.”
In this partnership with the mental -health department at the University of Central Florida, students volunteer with The Nurture Place, go through training and go into the schools to deliver the program.
Gonzalez said Dr. Michelle Urquhart, a behavioral specialist with OCPS, works specifically with Maxey Elementary.
“It’s been a blessing,” Gonzalez said. “She has been such an advocate for this.”
Tildenville Elementary students are participating in the resiliency and nurture groups, too.
“They are third-graders now who were COVID babies, so they missed some things, so (a school official) said, ‘Can you work with them and nurture these skills?’” Gonzalez said.
Counselors and volunteers teach kindness, gentleness and cooperation; and how to give care and receive care.
“We teach it in a fun and creative way that helps them to have really strong relationship skills, how to voice our needs and how to express what’s happening in us,” Gonzalez said. “If you’re not taught how to express your needs as a child, you won’t be able to as an adult.”
She called this the preventative side of her group’s work.
Angela Gonzalez, executive director of The Nurture Place, has created a program that takes mental health counselors into schools to reach even more students in need of help.
“It’s easier to teach than to fix,” she said.
At Renaissance Charter, students participate in the resiliency and nurture groups and several therapists go for afterschool therapy.
“It’s whatever they need,” Gonzalez said.
“The reality is children cannot learn … if (they) are in fight-or-flight mode,” Gonzalez said. “They need to feel safe so they can learn. Mental health is a huge part of learning and relationships.”
Play therapy also is key to reaching students, Gonzalez said.
“We do a lot of play therapy,” she said. “Play is the language of children, and we help them recognize all the things they are feeling so they can verbalize what they are feeling.”
Gonzalez said she wants to expand to more schools in West Orange.
DON QUIJOTE AWARD
Gonzalez has been named a finalist for a 2024 Don Quijote Award, presented by the Hispanic Chamber of Com-
merce. She was nominated by Shiloh Karshima, who has been helping write grants for The Nurture Place, and is one of three finalists in the Excellence category. The awards gala is Dec. 14 at the Epcot World Showplace Pavilion.
“I’m very humbled,” Gonzalez said. “I love working in the community, and hopefully it helps to get our name out a little bit.”
On her Facebook page, she wrote: “Humbled and grateful beyond words for having the opportunity to make a social impact through mental health and family resources.”
A CONTINUING NEED
Because The Nurture Place is a nonprofit, funds must be raised to enable the therapists to go into the schools.
“The work we do in the schools, that’s all funding we have to raise, from … people who believe in that work,” Gonzalez said.
Liz’s Legacy Foundation has committed 12 weeks of funding for the program at Edgewood, but funds are needed to cover four more weeks.
THE NURTURE PLACE
232 S. Dillard St., Suite 220, Winter Garden
PHONE: (407) 204-1101
WEBSITE: thenurtureplace.org
DETAILS: The Nurture Place provides mental health and wellness services to children and families who otherwise cannot afford them. The nonprofit organization takes a comprehensive approach that includes counseling, inschool programs, support groups and life coaching.
“The impact of this program extends far beyond the ranch,” Gonzalez said. “By giving these children the tools to understand and manage their emotions, we’re setting them up for success in all aspects of their lives. The ripple effect on our community is immeasurable.”
Donations can be made on the website, thenurtureplace.org.
The need for volunteers is great, too. All go through a background process and training program before working with children.
“The more we grow, the more we need volunteers,” she said. “That’s another way of supporting the work we are doing.”
Amy Quesinberry Price
THE WAYS WE WERE FROM THE WINTER GARDEN HERITAGE FOUNDATION
80 years ago
Paul Taylor, of Gibsonville, North Carolina, bought the business of W.S. Pounds on Lake Apopka in Winter Garden, well known as Pounds’ Fishing Docks.
The patriotic window display at the Florida Power Corporation’s office in the Edgewood Hotel building was attracting much attention, especially the latest addition pasted on the large 6-foot-by-10-foot plate glass —the dove of peace with the olive branch.
The first-floor room to the lefthand entrance of the Edgewater Hotel was leased to Dr. DeLage, of the Davis Pharmacy, who had plans to open a gift shop.
Mayor Frank Roper’s timely suggestion at the commission meeting that Winter Garden should have a hospital was met with a hearty response by all the members present and was enthusiastically discussed.
70 years ago
Mr. and Mrs. Jim Bock motored to Fort Myers for the weekend with friends.
Avalon Turkey Farm, 484 White, advertised fresh dressed turkeys at the farm for pick-up the week of Christmas.
Mr. and Mrs. Comer Nelson entertained Thanksgiving evening after the football game with a dinner.
45 years ago
Debutantes Janet Hickman and Melodye Hendrix were honored at a party at Rosie O’Grady’s Goodtime Emporium.
Dillard Street Elementary School librarian Frances McKey marked American Education Week and Children’s Book Week by relaxing in the bathtub with a good book. The decoupaged clawfoot tub was a favorite reading spot in the new DSES library.
FROM THE ARCHIVES
The James Willis home was located on Oakland Avenue in what was always referred to as Tildenville. He and his family arrived with the Luther Fuller Tilden family in 1874 and constructed homes on Tildenville School Road south of Oakland Avenue (the Tilden homes still stand). This second Willis home stood on the south side of today’s State Road 438, a short walk west from Tildenville School Road. The stately Victorian was heavily damaged by a fallen oak tree and demolished; a new home rose on the site in 1954, and it recently has been replaced by a new development.
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.
40 years ago
The following West Orange Debutantes were presented at Bay Hill Country Club: Gretchen Gatewood Britt, Kelly Allayne Broughton, Connie Lynn Cobia, Smilie Lyn Faust, Susan Lee Galbraith, Kristin Ann Garrison, Susan Lynn Grant, Leigh Anne Hargrove, Rena Lynn Heckman, Laura McFarland Marshall, Amanda Gay Maxey, Jennifer Sue Maynes, Mary Beth McCabe, Wendy Ann Myers, Sarah Elizabeth Osburn, Amy Lynn Quesinberry, Alpha Etta Sanders, Lynn Dee
Smith, Stephanie Kay Walls and Jamie Kay Weir.
35 years ago
Publix Super Markets delivered an Apple computer to Ocoee Elementary School, a state-ofthe-art classroom learning aid that was earned by parents saving gold cash register tapes at Publix. This was the first of many Apple computers to be delivered to area schools. OES planned to earn at least two more.
30 years ago
Wayne Icenhour retired from the U.S. Postal Service after an 18-year career. He was a substitute carrier in Winter Garden for seven years before going to the Windermere Post Office in 1983. His final delivery area was Rural Route 5 near Windermere Elementary School.
THROWBACK
THURSDAY
DEC. 5, 1974
In the first issue of The Winter Garden Times in December 1974, it was clear the Christmas season was upon us, with multiple advertisements offering holiday gift suggestions. Among them was Eckerd Drugs, where “there’s a gift for everyone in the family.”
Gifts from the Max Factor jewelry showcase included perfume lockets for
LAKE DOWN VILLAGE
The home at 9514 Lavill Court, Windermere, sold Nov. 27, for $2,900,000. Built in 1983, it has five bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 4,869 square feet of living area. Days on market: 198.
RESERVE AT LAKE BUTLER SOUND
The home at 11118 Coniston Way, Windermere, sold Nov. 29, for $2,600,000. Built in 2008, it has five bedrooms, five baths, two half-baths and 8,128 square feet. Days on market: 128.
WINTER GARDEN AVALON RESERVE
The home at 1060 Vinsetta Circle, Winter Garden, sold Nov. 27, for $730,000. Built in 2014, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,704 square feet. Days on market: 143.
BLACK LAKE PRESERVE
Ahome in the Lake Down Village community in Windermere topped all West Orange-area residential real-estate transactions from Nov. 24 to Dec. 1.
The home at 9514 Lavill Court, Windermere, sold Nov. 27, for $2,900,000. Built in 1983, it has five bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 4,869 square feet. Days on market: 198. The sellers were represented by Kevin Sullivan, Lakeside Realty Windermere Inc.
These are the highestselling homes in each community in West Orange.
DR. PHILLIPS
PARKVIEW RESERVE
The home at 8350 Fenton St., Orlando, sold Nov. 26, for $840,310. Built in 2024, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 2,014 square feet.
PHILLIPS GROVE
The home at 7602 Wandering Way, Orlando, sold Nov. 27, for $965,000. Built in 2022, it has four bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 2,915 square feet. Days on market: 178.
RUBY LAKE
The home at 11304 Lemon Lake Blvd., Orlando, sold Nov. 25, for $900,000. Built in 2021, it has four bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 3,844 square feet. Days on market: 166.
HORIZON WEST
HARVEST AT OVATION
The home at 13055 Sunrise Harvest Drive, Winter Garden, sold Nov. 27, for $750,000. Built in 2024, it has five bedrooms, four baths and 2,855 square feet. Days on market: 284.
STOREY GROVE
The home at 15518 Water Spring Blvd., Winter Garden, sold Nov. 27, for $529,999. Built in 2017, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,023 square feet. Days on market: 17.
SUMMERLAKE
The home at 7927 Winter Wren St., Winter Garden, sold Nov. 26, for $622,000. Built in 2013, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 2,758 square feet. Days on market: 117.
WATERLEIGH
The home at 10105 Atwater Bay Drive, Winter Garden, sold Nov. 26, for $1,289,990. Built in 2024, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,929 square feet. Days on market: 25.
The home at 9765 Waterway Passage Drive, Winter Garden, sold Nov. 26, for $740,000. Built in 2024, it has five bedrooms, fourand-one-half baths and 3,225 square feet.
The home at 9759 Waterway Passage Drive sold Nov. 26, for $729,716. Built in 2024, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,924 square feet. Days on market: 32.
The home at 12824 Charmed Drive, Winter Garden, sold Nov. 25, for $728,316. Built in 2024, it has five bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths and 3,225 square feet. Days on market: Five.
The home at 10013 Sway St., Winter Garden, sold Nov. 25, for $722,836. Built in 2024, it has five bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths and 3,225 square feet. Days on market: 10.
WEST LAKE HANOCK ESTATES
The home at 7819 Bostonian Drive, Winter Garden, sold Nov. 27, for $545,000. Built in 2014, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 1,952 square feet. Days on market: Three.
WINDING BAY
The home at 15487 Lebeau Loop, Winter Garden, sold Nov. 27, for $960,000. Built in 2021, it has four bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 3,081 square feet. Days on market: Eight.
OAKLAND LONGLEAF AT OAKLAND
The home at 2636 Bobcat Chase Blvd., Oakland, sold Nov. 25, for $702,500. Built in 2019, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,473 square feet. Days on market: Three.
OAKLAND TRAILS
The home at 2050 Standing Rock Circle, Oakland, sold Nov. 27, for $599,000. Built in 2019, it has four bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 2,596 square feet. Days on market: Five.
OCOEE
LAKE OLYMPIA NORTH VILLAGE
The home at 1316 Olympia Park Circle, Ocoee, sold Nov. 25, for $505,000. Built in 1992, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,338 square feet. Days on market: Nine.
MCCORMICK WOODS
The home at 3448 McCormick Woods Drive sold Nov. 27, for $525,000. Built in 2007, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,440 square feet. Days on market: 33.
WINDSOR LANDING
The home at 323 Calliope St., Ocoee, sold Nov. 27, for $749,000. Built in 2005, it has five bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 3,743 square feet. Days on market: 130. w
WYNWOOD
The home at 2617 Coachwoowd Drive, Ocoee, sold Nov. 26, for $659,990. Built in 2024, it has four bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 2,787 square feet. Days on market: 80.
The home at 2611 Coachwood Drive, Ocoee, sold Nov. 26, for $547,189. Built in 2024, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,108 square feet of living area. Days on market: 49.
The home at 2623 Coachwood Drive, Ocoee, sold Nov. 25, for $486,990. Built in 2024, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 1,828 square feet. Days on market: 37.
WINDERMERE ISLEWORTH
The home at 5181 Latrobe Drive, Windermere, sold Nov. 29, for $2,580,000. Built in 1996, it has four bedrooms, four baths, two half-baths and 3,645 square feet of living area. Days on market: 19.
KEENE’S POINTE
The home at 11801 Camden Park Drive, Windermere, sold Nov. 25, for $1,375,000. Built in 2006, it has five bedrooms, three-andone-half baths and 3,814 square feet of living area. Days on market: 37.
The home at 14440 Breakwater Way, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 1, for $680,000. Built in 2016, it has five bedrooms, three baths and 3,638 square feet. Days on market: 19.
HERITAGE AT PLANT STREET
The townhouse at 672 Orange Belt Loop, Winter Garden, sold Nov. 25, for $515,000. Built in 2019, it has three bedrooms, two-andone-half baths and 1,850 square feet. Days on market: 45.
The townhouse at 680 Orange Belt Loop, Winter Garden, sold Nov. 26, for $465,000. Built in 2019, it has three bedrooms, twoand-one-half baths and 1,688 square feet. Days on market: 81.
LAKE APOPKA SOUND
The home at 17798 Hither Hills Circle, Winter Garden, Lake County, sold Nov. 26, for $905,000. Built in 2024, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,929 square feet. Days on market: 210.
OAKLAND PARK
The home at 896 Tilden Oaks Trail, Winter Garden, sold Nov. 26, for $910,000. Built in 2022, it has three bedrooms, two-andone-half baths and 2,268 square feet of living area. Days on market: 90.
The home at 941 Kershaw Drive, Winter Garden, sold Nov. 29, for $840,000. Built in 2019, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 2,260 square feet. Days on market: 99.
SPORTS
HIGH 5
1
With the 2024-25 boys and girls high school basketball season in full swing, there are various high-profile games and showcases this week.
Starting at noon Saturday, Dec. 7, Windermere Prep will host the Orlando Health Hoopfest — a six-game boys basketball showcase, which includes matchups featuring three area teams. The Lakers (3-2) will face off against Bartow High (3-0) at 6 p.m., Windermere High (3-1) will take on Gateway Charter (3-0) while Olympia High (1-3) will play the Episcopal School of Jacksonville (4-0). On the girls side, the Metro West Conference tournament continues through Friday, Dec. 6. The semifinal games will be at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 5, at Dr. Phillips High and Ocoee High, while the championship game will take place at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 6, at Dr. Phillips High.
2
As of the latest MaxPreps rankings; released Dec. 2, prior to press time, the Windermere High boys soccer team slotted in as the ninthranked team in the nation, the seventh in Florida and second in FHSAA Class 7A. The Wolverines opened the season in dominant fashion; winning six consecutive games with a goal difference of +32 (scoring 38 goals and allowing six).
3
Windermere football player C.J. Bronaugh has announced his commitment to play his college ball for coach Matt Rhule at Nebraska. The 6-foot-1, 170-pound cornerback is a three-star prospect, according to the 247Sports Composite, and chose the Cornhuskers over the heap of Power 4 offers he’s received — including UCF, FSU, Penn State and Tennessee. Bronaugh was selected to the All-Metro West Conference first team and All-Orange Observer first team.
4
The area’s boys and girls high school soccer season has gotten off to a hot start, with various teams making early statements, once again showing just how soccertalent-rich the area is.
The Foundation Academy girls have gotten off to a 5-0 start — as of press time — winning its games convincingly Foundation will be in action twice in the coming week — at 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 6, on the road in Clermont against Real Life Christian Academy (0-2), and back home at 5 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 10, against Orangewood Christian (1-3-1).
Another girls game to keep an eye on will be Olympia (4-2) hosting South Lake High at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 5. For the boys, both Foundation (5-0) and Ocoee (4-0-1) have kicked off the season undefeated, while Windermere (6-1) has shown its ready to pick up where it left off last season.
The top boys matchups to this week are the Knights hosting Lake Nona High (3-0-1) and Horizon High (4-3-1) headed on the road to Olympia (2-0-3). Both games are set to kick off at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 6.
5The First Academy football’s Danny Odem III, a three-star prospect, announced on his social-media pages that he has de-committed from North Carolina, writing in a post that his recruitment is “100% open.”
GAME OF THE WEEK: FHSAA CLASS 7A STATE SEMIFINAL
No. 3 Dr. Phillips (12-1) at No. 2 Lake Mary (11-2)
A DIAMOND through the rough
As freshman, they suffered through a 4-6 season. Four years later, the seniors at Dr. Phillips are one win away from a state title berth.
SAM ALBUQUERQUE SPORTS EDITOR
Just as carbon deposits found under the surface of the earth can, over the course of millions to billions of years and with the appropriate amount of pressure and heat applied, form a diamond, a championship team can be formed with patience and adversity.
Just ask the final four-bound Dr. Phillips High football team.
“The opportunity to get to this point — being just one win away from the state title game — means a lot to us, because we know how hard we’ve worked to get here,” Dr. Phillips senior linebacker Kramar Brown Jr. said. “We’ve gone through a lot together, and in those moments, we didn’t quit. We learned from them and have just been building ourselves into the team we are today.
We’ve been molded over these past few years into this diamond. It took a lot of pressure and heat to get here, but thanks to the support we’ve given each other through the years, it’s showing now that this diamond is coming to form.”
TOUGH TIMES MAKE TOUGH TEAMS
Dr. Phillips (12-1) — after topping the visiting Vero Beach High (8-4), 21-14, in what ended up being a slogfest for the Region 3 Championship — is one of the final four teams alive competing for the Class 7A state title. However, if you would have told the Panthers seniors this after their freshman or even sophomore seasons, they might have believed you but with the caveat that it would have taken an incredible amount of growth.
The Ocoee boys basketball team gives fans a behind-thescenes view of the 2024-25 season in a Hard Knocks-style documentary series on the team’s YouTube channel.
SAM ALBUQUERQUE SPORTS EDITOR
Thanks to the success of recent sports documentary series such as “The Last Dance,” “Hard Knocks” and “Formula 1: Drive to Survive,” the genre has become increasingly popular among sports and non-sports fans alike. This boom has generated so much attention that we’ve reached the point that most professional sports franchises and many collegiate athletic programs have some sort of production
arm that develops their own show, web series or social-media content that peels back the curtains and gives fans a never-before-seen level of access into the lives, locker rooms and huddles of the people associated with their favorites teams. As the popularity of these docuseries continue to grow and trickle down throughout all corners of the sports landscape, it has reached the corner of West Orange County ath-
Sam Shoptaw, Windermere Prep boys basketball’s senior point guard and South Alabama signee, is ready to help lead the Lakers to the state title.
Dr. Phillips football’s senior class — such as Mykel Calitxe, left, Tavion Greaves, Cameran Dixon and Maliki Wright — has been at the heart of the Panthers’ run to the final four.
Photos by Sam Albuquerque
Panthers’ safety Maliki Wright shifted into position during a rain-filled third quarter against Vero Beach High.
Sam Albuquerque
Ocoee High boys basketball, led by seniors Ashton Billings (No. 2), Malachi Washington (No. 3), Joshua Lee-Peeples (No. 30) and Brenden Shaw (No. 4) along with coach Marcel Thomas, not only plan to make noise on the court this season
OF THE WEEK
Sam Shoptaw
After establishing himself as a vital part of the Windermere Prep boys basketball team, which reached the state championship game and finished with a 24-8 record last season, senior Sam Shoptaw is ready to take a leap and help the Lakers not only reach states but also help get them over the hump and bring home the hardware.
The South Alabama basketball signee returns to WPS as its top playmaker, having averaged six assists per game during his first season as a Laker.
So far in the 2024-25 season, the 6-foot-2 point guard has added to his workload as the team’s primary play-maker by increasing his production as a scorer. Through four games, Shoptaw has upped his points per game average from last season by more than 50% — going from 9.7 ppg in 2023-24 to 15.3 ppg.
Expect Shoptaw, his partnerin-crime, junior Brandon Bass Jr., and the entire Lakers boys basketball team to once again make some serious noise this season on the hardwood.
How does it feel to be named Athlete of the Week?
It feels amazing to know that the hard work that I’m putting in is being noticed.
What do you like the most about basketball?
It teaches so many life lessons. I’ve played basketball my whole life, at least since I can remember, and I’ve learned so much about life from this game.
How does it feel to be committed to play in college?
It’s amazing, because I’ve always dreamed of playing at the next level, and I’m just thankful to the University of South Alabama for giving me the opportunity to do so.
What is your goal for this season, for yourself and the team?
To win a state championship.
What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned from basketball?
Communication is key in life.
What is your favorite basketball memory?
I’m living my favorite basketball memory each and every day when I’m able to wake up and continue to chase my dream.
Who is your favorite athlete?
LeBron James because of the person he is off the court and all he does for his community and others.
Is there someone you try to model your game after?
I try to play like a smaller version of Luka Doncic.
What is your go-to pre-game meal?
A grilled chicken sandwich with everything on it and a cup of fruit.
What is your go-to pre-game hype song?
“Pass The Water” by Lil Durk.
What is your favorite nonsports hobby?
Playing video games with my friends.
THE BASICS Age: 18 Sport: Boys Basketball Grade: Senior School: Windermere Prep
What is your favorite subject in school?
English because my friends are in that class, and I like my teacher.
What are three things you would take with you to a deserted island?
A basketball, Bible and a fishing pole.
If you could have dinner with one person — dead or alive — who would it be?
Kobe Bryant, so I can learn from him and understand what it takes to get to the position he was in.
Also, I would talk to him about the knowledge he has outside of basketball. I would just try to pick his brain.
If you could go back in time to a specific period in history, when and where would you go?
I would like to go back to the 1980s and ’90s to see how my parents lived and what it took for them to be successful in different ways than we have to today.
Looking back, what piece of advice would you give your younger self?
Don’t listen to what others have to say and understand that God has a plan for you, even if you don’t know where He will take you!
If you could be an animal for a day, which one would you be and why?
A wolf, to learn about the mentality they have.
What is your most controversial food take?
Cereal should be eaten in a cup.
Does pineapple belong on pizza? No, pineapple does not belong on
hunt for state title started four years ago
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1B
Four years ago, when the current senior class first donned the Panthers’ blue for legendary coach Rodney Wells, it wasn’t the refined piece of high-end football you see being played these days at Bill Spoone Stadium. Rather, it was the first piece of pressure, adversity and molding these football players would face on their four-year journey to becoming a state-championship contender.
As freshmen, in 2021, this group was part of the Panthers’ (4-6) first losing season with Wells as coach and the first losing season in more than a decade overall — the 2010 team forfeited its 14 wins, and the previous losing season came in 2004.
It was a similar story for this group in 2022. DP finished again with a 4-6 record, but this time, they were a Hail Mary stop away from beating West Orange High, winning the district title and making the playoffs.
“This is, maybe, the most special group that I’ve had the pleasure of coaching, just because of the challenges that they’ve fought through,” Wells said. “From going 4-6 as freshmen and sophomores
— I don’t even want to talk about the Hail Mary loss to West Orange here during their sophomore year when all of these guys were playing for us — this group was able to bounce back last season and get things headed in the right direction.”
With most of the same cast of play-makers sticking together and trusting the process Wells and his staff have preached since the start, the 2023 season was when the shine from the diamond started to peak through the muck and the Panthers saw some of the success they’ve been working toward; finishing with a 7-5 record and reaching the second round of the playoffs.
“It was a big moment for these guys last season, to win a playoff game and make it to the second round,” Wells said. “Not only did it give them confidence, but coming into the summer they were (angry) and could see the vision we’ve been preaching to them — which was all about finishing strong, getting to the next level and ultimately putting another state championship on our belt.”
Now, as seniors, this group has seen the light at the end of a fouryear-long tunnel and is two wins away from doing what only one
other Panthers football team has ever done: Win a state title.
“It’s been a lot over these past four years,” Panthers senior quarterback Stanley Anderson-Lofton said. “We’ve been through the struggles, we saw what being a 4-6 team for back-to-back seasons was like. We know what it’s like to take a step forward and see what success feels like after we went 7-5 last season — but also how much it hurt to lose in the second round. So, it’s just a blessing to be in the position we are today and I want to give thanks to God for allowing us to go through this journey and get to this point.”
‘GO BE GREAT’
Despite being able to recognize the amazing journey this group of seniors — and, really, the entire Dr. Phillips team — has been on these past few seasons, one of the main reasons the Panthers football program has consistently been great under Wells’ stewardship is the collective group’s ability to keep the standard, well, the standard. What that means is simple: Reaching the final four isn’t the standard, and neither is reaching the state championship game.
Ocoee boys basketball debuts documentary series
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1B
letics — with one team taking the reigns of this phenomenon and becoming a pioneer in the space.
Led by coach Marcel Thomas, the Ocoee High boys basketball team debuted their YouTube documentary series titled “D…Termined” in November; a behind-the-scenes look at the Knights 2024-25 season compiled of coach and player interviews, highlights of games and a variety of other clips from the week that was in Ocoee Knights hoops.
“The documentary really started because of the success we saw with our social media page last year,” Thomas said. “We take a lot of pride in not only promoting Ocoee basketball and Ocoee athletics but also in representing the school, so when we saw the growth of our Instagram account to almost 1,500 followers, we knew that we were doing something right as far as attracting attention. So, this year, with the idea of growing our following and promoting our program and school, we wanted to take it up a notch and expand onto other platforms like YouTube and TikTok. That’s how we came up with the idea of doing a docu-series.”
FOR THE ATHLETES
Beyond the idea of using the team’s increasing platform to highlight and celebrate the program and the school, the core motivation of the docu-series is for the benefit of the student-athletes involved.
“As a high school coach, the reason I do this job is to help young men grow and develop,” Thomas said. “So when the idea for the docuseries came up, I just said to myself, ‘Why not do this for these guys and give them a chance to gain more exposure for their college recruiting, help them become more media savvy, teach them how to conduct themselves in front of a camera, and how to perform, knowing that your every movement is being watched?’
“The whole motivation behind this is that it’ll help them in the long run,” he said. “Another cool part of
WATCH THE KNIGHTS
The first three episodes of the Knights’ docu-series “D… Termined” are available to view on the team’s YouTube channel: youtube.com/@ Ocoee_Knights_Basketball/ videos.
this is, down the road in life, they’ll be able to look back at these videos and remember what we accomplished this year — whether we win a championship or not — but for them to be able to see how they were able to grow from where we started to where we’ll finish. It also gives people who care about this team and these kids the opportunity to follow our season, as well — whether it’s their classmates or family members — it’s cool to give them the chance to be part of this journey.”
For the benefit of his players, Thomas, who enjoys producing and editing videos as a hobby, takes on the workload of putting together each episode of the series and so far, three episodes in, the players are enjoying the opportunity this docuseries is giving them.
“I think the experience has been a big positive for the team, because it’s giving all of us more opportunities to get in front of college coaches,” senior Brenden Shaw said. “We have a lot of guys, a lot of seniors, who want to play at the next level, so I think the really important thing for us is getting more exposure but also getting more comfortable speaking about ourselves and our game in front of the camera. I think that’ll also be really helpful when we get in front of college coaches and we need to be confident in front of them. … I know in my own journey, I’ve started doing my own thing with video to try and get more exposure and get in front of college coaches, and the series definitely has helped me do that. The other thing it does for us, as a team, is
that we have made being on camera feel normal and we have this understanding — especially for those of us being recruited — that we’re being watched, we’re being evaluated and knowing the camera’s there helps us feel more comfortable with the idea that there’s eyes on us.”
LIFELONG MEMORIES
One of the most common answers retired, or former athletes give when asked what they miss most about their playing days is being in the locker room with their teammates, the bus rides to and from games, and generally the camaraderie and memories that are uniquely forged when you are part of a team. Thomas and his players — like all athletes — know that the season will end, and even if you are lucky enough to continue playing your sport, those groups of teammates, that dynamic in the locker room is specific to that group, and no matter how familiar the variables, next season’s team won’t be the same.
That’s why this docu-series, for this group of Ocoee basketball players, will serve as a memory that can last a lifetime — not only because it will be recorded but also because of the special moments that come because of this new experience.
“There’s been a lot of moments already this season that have been fun because of the series,” said Ocoee senior big man Joshua LeePeeples. “One that stood out for me was our media day; that’s when it felt like we all clicked. It was just a really lighthearted moment. We were just all smiling, laughing, having fun, making TikToks, joking around, watching this dude right here, Malachi (Washington), miss a ton of layups. It was a lot of fun just being together as a team that day; it’s always fun to be with these guys.
“This is like a second family to me, so knowing that we get to be together during this season and that the documentary will be something I can watch years down the road is special,” he said.
The standard is winning it all, and the Panthers know that maintaining that standard starts with their preparation during the week.
“To achieve our goal, we just have to keep practicing hard and improving each day,” Brown Jr. said. “It all starts with how we come out to practice on Monday, making sure we’re working hard, and if we can lean on that energy through the week, I have no doubt it’ll show on Friday and the week after at states.”
As the leader of the offense, Anderson-Lofton agrees with his fellow senior, Brown Jr., and knows everyone needs to lock in mentally to prepare for its first road playoff game of 2024.
“We just need to make sure everybody is keeping the main thing the main thing — winning the next game,” Anderson-Lofton said. “That starts with us coming in every day ready to work and not lolly-gagging. Even though we have fun and can be not serious at times, we’ve matured a lot over the years and have grown to understand that there’s a time for everything. Right now, it’s time for us to lock in to get what we want.”
Wells, who led the 2017 Panthers to a state title and reached the championship round the year prior, knows what title teams look like, and when asked what his team needs to do to win these next two games, he didn’t hesitate to point out the laundry list of ways his team needs to improve.
“We have to go be great,” Wells said. “We have to be better in all three phases of the game. We have to tackle better. We have to communicate better. We really have to finish better. We went into the halftime of the Vero Beach game up 21-0 and didn’t score a point in the second half. That’s not something that we can do if we want to win a championship. We have to take advantage of the big-play opportunities we get. Going back to the Vero game, Maliki (Wright) — and I don’t mean to pick on him because he has been great this year for us, always out there making plays — dropped what would have been a pick-six in the first half, that probably would have sent us into halftime up 28-0 and virtually closed out the game. So, that’s something else we have to do better, execute those big chances we get.”
LAST WEEK’S RESULTS
FRIDAY, NOV. 29
CLASS 7A, REGION 3
CHAMPIONSHIP
DR. PHILLIPS (12-1), 21
VERO BEACH (8-4), 14
HIGHLIGHTS:
After Dr. Phillips engineered an 85-yard, 14-play opening drive capped off by a short touchdown run by quarterback Stanley Anderson-Lofton, it seemed the Panthers’ offense once again would steal the headlines in their Class 7A, Region 3 championship win over visiting Vero Beach High.
The narrative would be even more stamped in certainty after Anderson-Lofton, a Middle Tennessee commit, found his favorite target, Mykel Calixte, twice for touchdowns in the second quarter to take a 21-0 lead into halftime.
However, the weather had other ideas.
In fact, the pouring rain that fell in the third quarter on the cold November night had such an impact on the game you’d think Charles Dickens wrote a football follow-up to his famed novel and called it “A
Tale of Two Halves.” The first-half, high-flying Panthers (12-1) offense stuck to the ground game and in the second, it was the DP defense — led by senior linebacker Kramar Brown Jr. and his late-game pass rushing heroics — that held off a Vero Beach (8-4) comeback and sealed the 21-14 region championship win for coach Rodney Wells and his team.
“Well, with the rain, the ball was slick and that affected our passing game in the second half,” Wells said.
“We usually try to stay away from running our quarterback ... but when you have sloppy conditions like we had tonight, it’s a great strategy, because the defense has to worry about everybody blocking. We didn’t want to run Stanley a ton, because we felt like we had the game in hand, but we took advantage of his athleticism a few times to add that wrinkle in the offense during the second half. ... We ended up doing enough on offense to give our defense good field position throughout the end there, and those guys got stops.”
Despite the Panthers’ defense holding the opposition scoreless through three quarters, the Vero offense began mounting a comeback
in the fourth on the back of two short TD runs by QB Champ Monds — with the second one coming at the 3:14 mark.
“He’s relentless,” Wells said. “Last year, he played at defensive end for us, because we had a hell of a group of senior linebackers, but this year, we asked him to stand up and play everywhere for us — inside linebacker; at certain times he’s played nickel, even a little dime and as you saw tonight, we put him at the edge a lot. That’s just the kind of person he is, unselfish. He’ll do anything we ask of him, and he’s got a motor unlike anybody I’ve seen.”
The senior was an absolute menace at the end of this game, not only getting the game-sealing pressure on the Vero QB but racking up multiple sacks and pressures in the final minutes that disrupted any and all attempts the offense made to move the ball down the field.
Simply put, Brown Jr. took over when his team needed him most and led this once-inexperienced — but now stellar — DP defense to stop after stop, but the senior leader points to the effort his team put in this week during practice as the reason why they won.
“This win was a whole team effort that only happened because of how hard we practiced this week,” Brown
OBSERVER 8, PLAYOFFS
A weekly power ranking of the eight best football programs in West, Southwest Orange County.
1. Dr. Phillips (12-1)
2. West Orange (10-3)
3. Windermere (10-0)
4. Ocoee (5-5)
5. Olympia (4-6)
6. Foundation Academy (5-5)
7. Legacy Charter (5-6)
8. Lake Buena Vista (3-7)
Jr. said. “We practice intensely every day, so when we come out here on Fridays, we can execute. Tonight, that intensity showed on the field.”
As for his thoughts on his performance, Brown Jr. sees plenty he can improve on this week as the Panthers prepare for the 7A state semifinal round.
“There’s a lot from tonight that I know I can still improve on,” he said.
“There were multiple plays where I messed up on my pass-rushing lanes and a few other things. I know I can always get better, and everyone on the team knows we need to keep improving, but we’re going to do that, and we’re going to win states.”
UP NEXT: Dr. Phillips will head on the road for the first time this postseason for its final-four matchup against Seminole County powerhouse, Lake Mary High (11-2). This semifinal battle for a spot in the state championship game is a rematch of the Week 5 classic, which saw the Panthers top the Rams, 2621, at Bill Spoone Stadium. Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 6, at Don T. Reynolds Stadium.
CLASS 7A, REGION 2 CHAMPIONSHIP
WEST ORANGE (10-3), 26
VENICE (12-1), 55
HIGHLIGHTS: The West Orange Warriors’ special season ended in the Class 7A, Region 2 football championship game, as they lost on the road to MaxPreps’ 19th-ranked team in the nation, Venice High (12-1).
It was a difficult start for the Warriors (10-3), as the home team leaned on its dynamic offensive attack to take control of the game early — scoring 21 unanswered points to open the first quarter, two passing touchdowns and one on the ground.
West Orange was able to respond to the fast start from Venice with 10 unanswered points of its own; a 40-yard TD connection from sophomore quarterback Brian Dillard to two-way star athlete Devonte Anderson near the end of the first quarter, followed by a field goal by kicker Ryder Bondurant in the second — which was set up by turnover on downs forced by the Warriors’ defense — that made it a 21-10 game.
Venice, however, yanked the momentum back before halftime with its third and fourth touchdown passes of the game, taking a 35-10 lead into the game’s midway break. Coming out of halftime, Venice struck again.
This time, after a promising West Orange drive ended with a fumble recovered by the home team at their 35-yard line, Venice leaned back on its potent ground game for its second rushing touchdown of the game, a 45-yard TD run that flipped what could have been a 35-17 scoreline (had the Warriors scored on the previous drive) into a 41-10 game in the third quarter.
Photo courtesy of Marissa Romeu | TK Photography
West Orange football’s Logan Hartman (No. 22), a senior linebacker, hugged junior Michael Onorata (No. 33) following the Warriors’ playoff loss to Venice High.
KIMBERLY HOWARD OCOEE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Kimberly Howard is the school nurse at Ocoee Elementary School and provides care for ill students, first aid for minor injuries, daily medications during school hours, state-mandated health screenings and a safe place for mental-health breaks. She is a member of the school’s emergency response team and nutritional health team.
“Nurse Howard’s dedication to the well-being of our students and staff is truly remarkable,” Ocoee Elementary Principal Kandace Goshé said. “Her unwavering commitment to delivering compassionate care, fostering a safe and healthy school environment, and addressing the unique health needs of each individual has a profound and positive impact on the Ocoee Elementary community every day. Her professionalism, empathy and tireless efforts make her an invaluable asset to our school.”
group I was in to celebrate Black History Month. She loved it so much she encouraged me to enter it into a contest, and I actually won first place for my age group. She was an amazing teacher.
What is your favorite children’s book and why?
What brought you to your school?
During my public health clinical rotation at Florida A&M University, I had an opportunity to shadow a school nurse. I remember saying to myself that I can see myself in this setting one day. Fast-forward 20-plus years, an opportunity opened at Ocoee Elementary, and I did not hesitate to join the Cardinal family.
“Oh, The Places You Will Go!” by Dr. Seuss. I love the fact that it encourages if you can imagine it, then you can do it. There is no limit to what you can do.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
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What do you love most about your school?
I definitely love the students, because they are my “why.” My heart for children does not see this as a job but an opportunity to use “starfish” moments to make a difference in our students’ learning when it comes to taking care of their health while at school. I am also grateful for our faculty and staff that we work together as a team for our students.
What is the most rewarding part of your job?
Knowing I made a difference for a student, even if it is with what they call “magical ice.” One of the students gave it this name because the ice bag had stars on it and he professed he was healed in less than five minutes, LOL. Their smiles and hugs are everything to me.
Spending time with my family, exploring new things to try out in the area, reading and all things arts and crafts. I must say I have entered into my crotchet and plant mom era thanks to both of my grandmothers. You will also see me engaging in community service through my sorority.
If you could dine with any famous person, past or present, who would it be and why?
Mary Eliza Mahoney, the first African-American to earn a professional nursing license in the United States. It would have been an honor to sit with her and for her to share her story of why and how she became a nurse including the challenges and victories she experienced.
If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why? I feel that I have a superpower, and it is in serving others whether professionally or in my personal life.
What would you be if you weren’t in this profession?
Being that I am a big advocate for reading literacy, I would probably be a bookstore owner with a studio in the back for arts/craft classes.
Who influences you?
My family and my Sorors of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc. Being able to witness and learn from their life’s journey has impacted mine. Each person has imparted on a piece of my puzzle.
Who was your favorite teacher when you were in school? Why?
Second grade, Mrs. Smith. She was a pivot in that she met students where they were and encouraged as well as nurtured the gifts she saw in us. I remember one time she came by my desk during free time, and I was writing a poem for a
REPORT CARD
POSITION: School nurse
TIME AT SCHOOL: Five years with Ocoee Elementary and OCPS
What was your go-to lunch and favorite snack as an elementary student?
Pizza, grilled peanut-butter-andjelly sandwich or grilled cheese sandwich.
What is your favorite holiday and why? Christmas, of course. I love the weather, the smell of Christmas, the holiday cheer and songs.
Who was your best friend when you were in school and why? Are you still in touch?
Camela Humphries. When she moved to my neighborhood, we were instant friends and have remain friends ever since. She is the one person I can call on, and we pick up like we talked the day before. She has always been there.
What were your extracurricular activities as a student? Did you win any accolades or honors?
Church and community youth groups, Brownies and Girl Scouts, track, and cheerleading.
— AMY QUESINBERRY PRICE
OTC celebrates new West campus
Orange Technical College — West Campus hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony for its new home in the city of Ocoee Nov. 8. Scott Howat, chief communications officer for Orange County Public Schools, welcomed attendees to the ceremony held outside the front of the school.
Several leaders involved with the project shared words on the new campus, including Maria Vasquez, OCPS superintendent; Melissa Byrd, District 7 School Board member; Michael Armbruster, deputy superintendent for OCPS; and Michele Daugherty, president and CEO of the Central Florida Chapter of Associated Builders and Contractors Inc.
The leaders then joined the West Orange Chamber of Commerce and OTC — West students for the ribbon-cutting.
Following the ceremony, community members enjoyed light bites and refreshments in the newly named Dr. Michael D. Armbruster Center for Collaboration. Attendees also had the opportunity to tour the new campus and learn more about how the school will positively impact the community.
The new $42.3 million campus is led by senior director Scott Weidl. The school sits on 38 acres, although only 17 currently are being utilized, and boasts 115,604 square feet with five buildings.
The campus, located at 2010 Ocoee-Apopka Road, previously was located in Winter Garden, 955 E. Story Road.
— ANNABELLE SIKES
Left: Orange County Public Schools leaders joined students and members of the West Orange Chamber of Commerce for the ribbon-cutting.
Michael Armbruster, deputy superintendent for Orange County Public Schools, said Walt Cobb — second senior director of OTC — West from 1983 to 2005 — changed his life by taking a chance on him joining the school community in 1987.
Melissa Byrd, District 7 School Board member, shared personal stories about her parents. She said she got emotional walking through the building when it was still under construction because she wishes they were here to see it.
BRAINFOOD
The Observer answers kids’ burning curiosities.
Snow?!? In Florida?!? I Michael Eng // Editor and Publisher
Chances are, unless you and your family have plans to travel up north, you won’t be seeing a White Christmas this year. As you probably already know, it doesn’t really snow in Florida. In fact, many people — known as snowbirds — actually move to Florida in the winter months to escape the snow! However, snow in Florida isn’t impossible. And it has happened! Read on!
THE GREAT BLIZZARD OF 1899
One of the worst recorded winter storms in U.S. history occurred in February 1899.
Also known as the Valentine’s Day Blizzard, the storm moved over the Florida Panhandle Feb. 12 and 13, plunging Tallahassee’s temperatures to -2 degrees — an all-time low record. Here in Central Florida, temperatures dropped into the teens and 20s. Below-freezing temperatures were recorded as far south as Miami. North Florida received 1 to 3 inches of snow, while the Central Florida area enjoyed trace amounts of the powdery stuff.
FEB. 12-13, 1958
A record 2.8 inches of snow fell on Tallahassee on Feb. 12-13, 1958 — enough for students at Florida State University to build snowmen and have snowball fights.
Although snow did not fall in Central Florida that year, the cold weather of 1957 and 1958 had impacts in the area — and especially in West Orange. The temperatures damaged the citrus crops grown in the area, and it cost the industry more than $5 million.
JAN. 19, 1997
This was the first time in recorded history that snow fell in Miami. During that storm, South Florida also experienced the coldest temperatures ever recorded — down to 28 degrees in Fort Lauderdale and 32 on Miami Beach.
And yes, on that day, it also snowed in Orlando! Central Floridians enjoyed just a trace amount of snow, but nearby Plant City recorded 2 inches of the white stuff, as did Tampa.
And get this: The high temperature in Orlando that day was 47 degrees! Brrrr!
1993 STORM OF THE CENTURY
This gigantic storm formed over the Gulf of Mexico on March 12, 1993, and stretched as far south as Honduras all the way to Canada. It was almost like a hurricane in winter.
The storm brought winds of up to 100 mph and 11 tornadoes as it made its way east. And in the Panhandle, some areas received nearly 6 inches of snow.
EVENTS HOLIDAY COOKIE
DECORATING
1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7, at the Windermere Branch Library, 530 Main St., Windermere. Decorate cookies to dazzle everyone! Learn easy ways to dress up holiday cookies for the season.
Recommended for ages 5-17.
“THE NUTCRACKER”
Presented by the Central Florida Ballet 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 8, at the Orlando Public Library, 101 E. Central Blvd., Orlando. Enjoy a live performance of scenes from the classic ballet “The Nutcracker.” To learn more about the Central Florida Ballet, visit centralfloridaballet.com.
IT DOESN’T SNOW IN FLORIDA 4:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 18, at the Winter Garden Branch Library, 805 E. Plant St., Winter Garden. It may not snow in Florida, but that doesn’t mean we can’t make our own winter fun!
parents and guardians are welcome to craft along.
RECOMMENDED READING FICTION
“Hiro, Winter, and Marshmallows” by Marine Schneider; translated by Vineet Lal
“How Carrot and Cookie Saved Christmas” by Erica S. Perl; illustrated by Jonathan Fenske
“Winter Light” by Aaron Becker
“One Foggy Christmas Eve” by Kerilynn Wilson
“The Days After Christmas” by Maggie C. Rudd; pictures by Elisa Chavarri
Rosen Hotels founder, philanthropist dies at 85
place.
cancer, and supporting health and wellness initiatives. The family will hold a private Celebration of Life and kindly asks for privacy during this difficult time. Thank you.”
can be found throughout the community.
Mr. Rosen, 85, died Monday, Nov. 25, 2024, surrounded by family and loved ones.
“On behalf of the Rosen family, it is with profound sadness that I announce the passing of Harris Rosen, who left us this morning at the age of 85,” Rosen CEO Frank Santos said in a statement. “Harris was an angel to so many here on earth, and now he takes his place among the angels in heaven. A beloved father, grandfather and a pillar of our community, his boundless generosity and love touched countless lives through his unwavering commitment to helping underserved communities, promoting education, advancing the fight against
Mr. Rosen’s legacy in the Central Florida hospitality and tourism industry stretches back more than five decades. In his early years, he helped develop the Contemporary, Polynesian and Fort Wilderness resorts at Disney World. Then in 1974, he bought a Quality Inn on International Drive — a move that would lead to the founding of Rosen Hotels & Resorts in 1974.
Mr. Rosen’s company grew into one of the Southeast’s largest independent hotel chains. According to the University of Central Florida, the company currently has more than 6,300 guest rooms and suites, more than 740,000 square feet of event space and more than 30 unique dining options.
Carol Dover, Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association president and CEO, issued a statement about Rosen’s impact.
“Florida’s hospitality industry mourns the loss of one of its most iconic leaders, our dear friend Harris Rosen,” she said. “FRLA’s longtime board member and our 2009 Hotelier of the Year, Harris transformed Central Florida’s hospitality landscape through his visionary leadership and unyielding commitment to excellence. He set the standard for innovation and guest service, turning his dream into an empire that became a cornerstone of Orlando’s tourism industry. His remarkable career is a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit that defines our industry.”
In addition to his business ventures, Mr. Rosen also was a wellknown philanthropist. Through The Harris Rosen Foundation, established in 1987, Mr. Rosen focused efforts on underserved communities, including Tangelo Park and Haiti.
Mr. Rosen also donated 20 acres and $10 million to help develop UCF’s Rosen College of Hospitality Management.
A descendant of Russian-Jewish immigrants, Mr. Rosen also left an indelible mark on Orlando’s Jewish community.
“It is with profound sorrow that we share the news of the passing of Harris Rosen, a visionary leader, devoted family man and a cherished pillar of our community,” Rosen JCC CEO Ofira Bondorowsky said in a statement. “Harris Rosen’s immeasurable impact on our community and the thousands of lives he touched will never be forgotten. His legacy of generosity, compassion and unwavering dedication to bettering the world will continue to inspire us all. We join his family in honoring his extraordinary life and extend our heartfelt condolences during this time of mourning. May his memory be a blessing to all who knew and loved him.”
Dover also celebrated Mr. Rosen’s philanthropic work.
“His unwavering dedication to improving lives — from investing in education initiatives like the UCF Rosen College of Hospitality Management — to generously supporting health care and disaster relief efforts — exemplified the profound impact one individual can have on a community,” she said. “Harris Rosen’s legacy will endure not only through the hotels that bear his name but also through the countless lives he touched,” she said. “On behalf of the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association, we extend our deepest condolences to his family, colleagues and all who had the privilege to know him. His contributions to Florida’s hospitality industry and his philanthropic spirit will never be forgotten.”
Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings called Mr. Rosen a “true pillar” of Central Florida.
“Harris Rosen was more than a business leader; he was a compassionate visionary who dedicated his life to improving the lives of others,” Demings said. “His commitment to our community went beyond his work as a hotelier. Through (The Harris) Rosen Foundation, Harris invested millions into local schools, health care and vital programs for underprivileged families, uplifting countless people in the process. Most notably, his education philanthropy in the Tangelo Park and Parramore communities is unparalleled. On behalf of Orange County, I extend my deepest condolences to Harris’s family, friends and all who were fortunate enough to know him. We are forever grateful for his extraordinary contributions to our community, and we will endeavor to carry forward his spirit of service and kindness.”
JOLENE TYSON SMITH DIED OCT. 7, 2024.
Jolene Tyson Smith, 89, was born to parents Dewey and Minnie Lee Tyson on Dec. 5, 1934, in the small town of Meigs, Georgia and passed on Oct. 7, 2024, at her home in Clermont, Florida, surrounded by her children and grandchildren.
Jolene first married Dr. John R. Arnold, with whom she had four children, and resided in Windermere and then the Orlando Country Club. Her second marriage was to Richard “Dick” Smith, with whom she resided in Windermere at Isleworth Country Club. Together they traveled extensively. Jolene was always full of energy, upbeat and constantly doing something productive. She was also an avid tennis player and a fierce competitor on the court, and excelled in golf, earning a hole-in-one at Isleworth Country Club. She is deeply missed and is survived by sister, Jean Bushway (Birmingham, Alabama); two sons, John Jr. and J. Robert; grandchildren, Joshua, Jason, Jackson, John Forrest and Kendal; as well as two daughters, Kathryn and Susan; and grandchildren, Austin and Garrett Pitts, and Hanna. Memorial service is being held from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dec. 10 at Woodlawn Funeral Home and Memorial Park. Flowers can be sent at or around the date of the service to: Woodlawn Funeral Home and Memorial Park, 400 Woodlawn Cemetery Road, Gotha, Florida 34734.
Harris Rosen was one of Central Florida’s leading entrepreneurs, and his charity work focused on making the community a better
Courtesy photo
Harris Rosen’s legacy will live on in the Central Florida community and beyond.
HOLIDAY CALENDAR
From longtime traditions such as the Winter Garden Christmas Parade to the brand-new Christmas at Hamlin: A Festival of Holiday Traditions, West Orange and Southwest Orange are the perfect place to be if you love the holidays. There truly is something for everyone, so grab your calendar and fill in some of those dates with these events — all taking place in your back yard!
WINTER GARDEN CHRISTMAS PARADE
WHEN: 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 7
WHERE: Starts on South Dillard Street, heads north and goes west on Plant Street.
DETAILS: Take a lawn chair or blanket, and head to your favorite spot for this annual event. This long-standing Winter Garden holiday tradition will delight spectators and ring in holiday cheer. Don’t forget to look for the Big Guy himself at the end of the parade.
HOLIDAY NIGHT MARKET
WHEN: 4 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7
WHERE: Downtown Winter Garden
Garden.
DETAILS: This concert will feature Dove Award-winning artist Clay Crosse and an all-star band.
2024 COOKIE CARNIVAL
WHEN: 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7
WHERE: First United Methodist Church of Winter Garden fellowship hall, 125 N. Lakeview Ave., Winter Garden
DETAILS: Come and fill your boxes with a great variety of homemade cookies and take them home or give as gifts. Cookies are $12 per container. The church also will be selling a cookie cookbook this year.
INFO: Email fumc@fumcwg.org
DETAILS: A new event for 2024, the Holiday Night Market transforms the Downtown Pavilion area to a picturesque festive open-air market bustling with market stalls of vendor booths of holiday goods for sale such as décor, unique gifts, and festive treats and beverages. A centrally located stage will provide rotating holiday entertainment including Dickens Carolers, holiday book story time and school chorus groups. Santa will be there too for photos and to hear wish lists. The weather predicts snow flurries. To mark the city’s first Holiday Night Market, colorful, commemorative Holiday Night Market reusable tote bags will be given away to the first 1,000 guests.
WEBSITE: downtownwg.com
12TH ANNUAL WINTER
GARDEN GOLF CART PARADE
WHEN: Begins at 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec.
7. Staging is at 798 W. Bay St.
WHERE: Downtown Winter Garden
DETAILS: The parade is an amazing sight of festive, elaborately decorated golf carts making their way through historic downtown to spread holiday cheer. The parade loops around West Plant, entering east bound from Park Avenue and looping westbound on Woodland Street.
WHERE: SOBO Art Gallery, 127 S. Boyd St., Winter Garden
DETAILS: This wonderful event provides the opportunity to create a fantastic holiday gingerbread house. SOBO provides one pre-assembled base house, base and everything you could want to design your masterpiece. Step-by-step guidance is provided.
WHEN: Between 5:45 and 9 p.m. Dec. 9 to 14 through the neighborhoods of Winter Garden. An alternate date is scheduled for Dec. 16 if weather interrupts one of Santa’s visits.
WHERE: Santa will be in the city’s northwest on Dec. 9; the northeast on
ONGOING
Downtown Winter Garden will be transformed into a Winter Wonderland from Dec. 6 to Jan. 5, 2025. For the Christmas season, downtown Winter Garden will feature all the sights and sounds of the season to complement its historic small-town charm. On select dates, enjoy holiday events, live music, projection light shows, street performers and more that add to the festive, Norman Rockwell-like ambiance. All events and activities are free unless noted otherwise.
n Holiday Street Performers: 6 to 9 p.m. Dec. 7, 8, 13, 14, 15, 20, 21 and 22
n A Very Merry Farmers Market: 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Dec. 7, 14, 21 and 28. Find flowers and wreaths, holiday plants, seasonal decorations, the freshest produce and artisan food to make your holidays festive, as well as great gifts. Santa will be at the market from 9 a.m. to noon Dec.
HOLIDAY OPERA AT THE GARDEN
WHEN: 7 to 8 p.m. Saturdays, Dec. 14 and 21
WHERE: Garden Theatre, 160 W. Plant St., Winter Garden
DETAILS: This new-for-2024 concert will feature world-class soprano Samar Salamé Hawat accompanied by Liana Gheorghita on piano. This magical concert is a great way to celebrate the season with its beautiful blend of classical repertoire with beloved Christmas carols.
WHERE: West Orange High School, 1625 Beulah Road, Winter Garden
DETAILS: A favorite holiday tradition for families across the Winter Garden area, this concert is designed to inspire, celebrate and unite us in the spirit of the season.
COCOA AND COOKIES WITH SANTA
WHEN: 10 a.m. to noon Friday, Dec. 20
WHERE: Jessie Brock Community Center, 310 N. Dillard St., Winter Garden
DETAILS: Preschoolers ages 3 to 5 are invited to enjoy a cup of hot cocoa and story time with Mrs. Claus, create a holiday craft, and meet and greet Santa.
CHANUKAH CELEBRATION AND MENORAH LIGHTING
WHEN: 6 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 26
WHERE: Butterfly Sculpture Park, downtown Winter Garden
DETAILS: Chabad of South Orlando will lead this celebration and lighting.
WEBSITE: jewishorlando.com
NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY AT PILARS
WHEN: 7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 31
WHERE: Pilars Loft, 146 W. Plant St., Winter Garden
DETAILS: Enjoy dinner by Market to Table followed by a Plant Street Pops Party Band show from 8:30 a.m. to midnight.
TICKETS: pilarsmartini.ticketleap.com
OCOEE
24TH ANNUAL OPERATION SANTA
WHEN: 5:30 to 9 p.m. Dec. 5, 10, 12, 17 and 19
WHERE: More than 60 neighborhoods in Ocoee
DETAILS: Jolly Old Saint Nicholas will ride through neighborhoods aboard a festive holiday float built by the Ocoee Fire Department and volunteers.
INFORMATION: For a list of subdivisions, call the Ocoee Fire Department at (407) 905-3140.
OCOEE COMMUNITY MARKET
WHEN: 6 to 9 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 5
WHERE: Ocoee Lakeshore Center, 125 N. Lakeshore Drive
DETAILS: The market is an opportunity for locals to come together to enjoy activities, local shopping vendors, food and live entertainment.
BRUNCH WITH SANTA
WHEN: 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Saturday, Dec.
14
WHERE: Ocoee Lakeshore Center, 125 N. Lakeshore Drive
DETAILS: Enjoy a visit with Santa and his special guests, share Christmas wishes, pictures, and much more.
CONTACT: Tracy Wise-Donahey, (407) 905-3180
WINTER HOLIDAY CAR SHOW
WHEN: 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec.
14
WHERE: Bill Breeze Park, 125 N. Lakeshore Drive, Ocoee
DETAILS: This new event will feature a car show (in partnership with Past and Present Motors and Atlas Chiropractor), with a parade of cars driving down Bluford Avenue to the car show.
CONTACT: David Maggart, (407) 9053180
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JOLLY JAMBOREE AND TREE LIGHTING
WHEN: 3 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14
WHERE: Ocoee Lakeshore Center, 125 N. Lakeshore Drive
DETAILS: This free event will feature Santa’s Village, a kids zone, special guests, tree lighting and much more.
CONTACT: Adrian Dorsey, (407) 9053180.
DOG PARADE WHEN: 1:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14
WHERE: Downtown Ocoee
DETAILS: The Ocoee Parks & Recreation Department will host its third annual Holiday Dog Parade.
REGISTRATION: Adrian Dorsey, (407) 905-3180.
HIGHLIGHTING OCOEE WHERE: City of Ocoee
DETAILS: The Ocoee Parks & Recreation Advisory Board meets from 6 to 8:30 p.m. on two designated dates in December to view and judge the homes with the best Christmas lights. INFORMATION: ocoee.org OAKLAND FOURTH ANNUAL
DETAILS: Oakland invites you to this beautiful display of Christmas trees decorated by businesses and individuals.
2024 SANTA’S LANE
WHEN: 3 to 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7 WHERE: Oakland Town Center, 230 N. Tubb St., Oakland
DETAILS: Guests will have the opportunity to sit with Santa for a free photo, and kids will leave with a special treat. The event also will feature an inflatable alpine snow slide, a Christmas Shopping Village and more.
INFORMATION: oaklandfl.gov
OAKLAND GOLF CART PARADE
WHEN: 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7
WHERE: Starts at Oakland Town Center, 230 N. Tubb St., Oakland
DETAILS: Enjoy the town of Oakland’s first golf cart parade, which will wind through the roads of historic Oakland.
HORIZON WEST
WINDERMERE HIGH
SCHOOL’S WINTER WONDERLAND
WHEN: 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 4
WHERE: Windermere High School, 5523 Winter Garden-Vineland Road, Windermere
DETAILS: The public is invited to this festive and fun event organized by the Windermere High School PTSO.
CHRISTMAS JOY CONCERT
WHEN: 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 6
WHERE: Family Church — Lakeside Campus, 8464 Winter Garden-Vineland Road, Orlando
DETAILS: Prepare your heart for Christmas as the Family Church worship team lights up the night with songs of joy and messages of hope. All three language communities will participate, with representatives from all church campuses, including student and kids’ choirs.
CHRISTMAS AT HAMLIN: A FESTIVAL OF HOLIDAY TRADITIONS
WHEN: 5 to 9 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7
WHERE: Hamlin Green Space, 14111 Shoreside Way, Winter Garden
DETAILS: Events include a tree-lighting ceremony at 6 p.m., live entertainment by the Horizon High School choir, Horizon and Windermere high marching bands, the Horizon West Theater Company and the Orlando Dance Conservatory. Attendees will be able to make ornaments, decorate cookies, write
letters to Santa, play festive games, and enjoy holiday food and drinks.
INFORMATION: hamlinfl.com
INDEPENDENCE WINTER FESTIVAL
WHEN: 5 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14
WHERE: Tower Green, 6690 New Independence Parkway, Winter Garden
DETAILS: This event will feature Santa and his holiday friends, an INDY KidZone, falling snow, S’mores and hot cocoa, a Don’t Stop Believin’ Dance Party at 6 p.m. and a Movie Night at 7:45 p.m.
HOMEGROWN IN HORIZON WEST
WHEN: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec.
15
WHERE: 16016 New Independence Parkway, Winter Garden
DETAILS: This bimonthly market features live music, a yoga class, food vendors, a car show and more.
WEBSITE: hamlinfl.com/events
FLORIDA RUNNING CO.’S
12KS OF CHRISTMAS
WHEN: 7:30 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 21
WHERE: Hamlin Town Center, 14111 Shoreside Way, Winter Garden
DETAILS: Don’t miss this Christmasthemed 12K and 5K run.
DETAILS: The gardens will feature beautiful and rare amaryllis bulbs for sale.
INFORMATION: nehrlinggardens.org
WINDERMERE
HOLIDAY MOVIE NIGHT
WHEN: 5:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 20
WHERE: Town Square Park, 520 Main St., Windermere
DETAILS: Enjoy a special screening of “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” and grab dinner from one of the food trucks.
INFORMATION: town.windermere.fl.us
WHITE SWAN ACADEMY PRESENTS
‘THE NUTCRACKER STORY’
WHEN: 11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 21
WHERE: Family Church — Windermere Campus, 300 Main St., Windermere
DETAILS: Celebrate the holiday season with White Swan Academy.
2024 WINDERMERE BOAT PARADE
WHEN: 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 21
WHERE: Parade begins at Bird Island
DETAILS: Residents are encouraged to deck out their boats in holiday cheer for the annual boat parade. Boat ramps must reopen in order for the parade to proceed.
2024 WINDERMERE
GOLF CART PARADE
WHEN: 5 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 22
WHERE: Parade begins at Central Park
DETAILS: Participants are invited to gather at 4:30 p.m. at Central Park to socialize and compare decorations. Then, they will embark on a tour of Windermere and end at Windermere Brewing.
DR. PHILLIPS/SOUTHWEST ORANGE HOLIDAY CELEBRATION AT THE GROVE
WHEN: 2 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7
WHERE: The Grove Orlando, 47004876 S. Apopka-Vineland Road, Windermere
DETAILS: The family event will feature photos with Santa, face painting, balloon art, giveaways and more.
ST. LUKE’S PRESENTS ‘SOUNDS OF THE SEASON’
WHEN: 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 12, Friday, Dec. 13, and Saturday, Dec. 14; and 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 15
WHERE: St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, 4851 S. Apopka-Vineland Road, Orlando
DETAILS: This year’s event features a community choir, dancers and the lush sounds of a live orchestra.
WEBSITE: st.lukes.org
ROSEN JCC ‘S COMMUNITY HANUKKAH FEST
WHEN: 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 15 WHERE: Rosen JCC, 11184 S. ApopkaVineland Road, Orlando
DETAILS: This event will feature Hanukkah games and crafts; holiday treats such as latkes and sufganiyot; activities for children and families; and more.
RSVP: rosenjcc.org/hanukkahfest
MONTVERDE CENTRE FOR DANCE AND THE PERFORMING ARTS PRESENTS: IN HIS NAME, WE DANCE WHEN: 4 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday,
hn2024
CLUE ME IN! by Kathy Bloomer and Jeff Chen, edited by Jeff Chen
Luis Campos
Flip
But
Featuring World-Class Soprano
Samar SalamÉ Hawat
Accompanied on the piano by Liana GheorghitA
DECEMBER 14 & 21, 2024
7:00 – 8:00 pm PRESENTS
GARDEN THEATRE
160 W. PLANT ST., WINTER GARDEN
A Magical Holiday Opera Evening Concert to Celebrate the Season
This festive performance will beautifully blend classical repertoire with beloved Christmas carols. Reserve your tickets today for this festive evening in the Holiday Wonderland of Historic Downtown Winter Garden!
