12.12.24 West Orange Times & Observer

WEST ORANGE TIMES &

Winter Garden, Ocoee, Oakland

Rosen CEO outlines company’s future

Frank Santos will succeed Harris Rosen as the CEO of Rosen Hotels & Resorts. SEE PAGE 2A.

L.J. Byrd has TFA basketball fans excited. SEE PAGE 1B.

It’s glistening once again

Holiday high notes

Samar Salamé Hawat will share from the stage a blend of classical opera repertoire with beloved Christmas carols. STORY ON PAGE 4A.

Windermere Prep hosts students from all over the world for Nord Anglia’s 2024 Global Games.

THE UNSOLVED

Where is Michael Louis Sills?

CHAMBER NAMES BIG ORANGE AWARD FINALISTS

The West Orange Chamber of Commerce has announced its finalists for the Big Orange Awards in six categories. The announcement was made at the Member Celebration Luncheon, held Thursday, Dec. 5, at the Ocoee Lakeshore Center. The finalists are: n Sam Hovsepian/Mary VanDeventer Spirit of West Orange Award: Ocoee Mayor Rusty Johnson, Jessica Villegas and Jim Zeitschel n George Bailey Award: Horizon West Happenings, We Are Winter Garden and West Orange Dream Center n Bert Roper Award: Community Health Centers, West Orange Habitat for Humanity and Dr. Phillips YMCA n Danniel J. Petro The Bright Future of West Orange Award: Chris Chan, Jamie Mark and Tim Haberkamp n Big Business of the Year: Foundation Academy, Valley Bank and Westgate Resorts n Small Business of the Year: Dawn Gilmore Productions, Kelly’s Homemade Ice Cream and Revel Realty. The Ambassador of the Year and the Chair’s Award will be announced at the Big Orange Awards, set for Feb. 22, 2025, at Walt Disney World Resorts. CREALDE PRESENTS NEW EXHIBITION

The Crealdé School of Art presents “It’s

Santos: Rosen resorts will not be

LIZ

RAMOS SENIOR EIDTOR

After nearly 39 years of serving as entrepreneur and hotelier Harris

Rosen’s right-hand man, Frank Santos will use all he’s learned from the Central Florida hotel mogul to lead Rosen Hotels & Resorts as its new CEO.

Rosen, who died Monday, Nov. 25, after a battle with cancer, had a clear vision for Rosen Hotels & Resorts’ future, and Santos said he is prepared to make the vision a reality.

“While Harris’ passing is a void that can never truly be filled, his value and vision will always continue to guide us forward,” Santos said. “I, along with the advisory committee that he hand-selected several years back, will collectively act as both the heart and brains behind Rosen Hotels & Resorts operations, honoring Mr. Rosen’s legacy, philosophies and unwavering commitment to all that he stood for.”

Santos started with Rosen Hotels & Resorts in January 1986 as the chief financial officer.

Santos’ hospitality career started at a Holiday Inn in Fall River, Massachusetts, as a busboy while he took classes at Diamond Vocational Technical School in Fall River. He moved in 1973 to Marin Island, Florida, to be a part of the opening team for a new Holiday Inn and has since taken on other roles before being hired as the CFO for Rosen Hotels & Resorts.

Santos said Rosen lived with the mindset to “always do the right thing,” and he plans to do the same.

Before Rosen’s death, Santos said

Rosen shared a vision for Rosen Hotels & Resorts with Santos that will guide the company into the next 10 years and beyond.

“Although there’s some rumors that we might be selling to other hotel entities, that won’t happen on my watch,” Santos said. “We look forward to continuing to build a footprint here in Central Florida — not only for our hotels and for our operations but also for all of the other projects that we are

continually involved with here.”

First up in Rosen Hotels & Resorts’ future plans are expansions at Rosen Centre on International Drive and Rosen Shingle Creek. The expansion of Rosen Shingle Creek includes adding about 400 guest rooms to the hotel. Santos said there are 250 acres available on the Shingle Creek property, considered Rosen Hotels & Resorts’ premier property.

All of the company’s hotels also will

be undergoing renovations to its guest rooms within the next two years.

Rosen Plaza currently is undergoing a total renovation of guest rooms and some of its public spaces.

Santos and Rosen Hotels & Resorts operations will continue to support philanthropic efforts that Rosen began, including the Harris Rosen Foundation, Adam Michael Rosen Foundation and the preschool programs in Tangelo Park and Parramore.

The Tangelo Park and Parramore preschool programs annually provide free preschool to the children from those underserved communities. Upon graduating high school, students are awarded college and vocational scholarships, which cover books, tuition, and room and board.

As part of his estate planning, Rosen ensured his multiple foundations and philanthropic efforts would be fully funded in perpetuity, Santos said.

“Harris taught me how to be philanthropic, and so I follow in those footsteps — not only as the CEO but also personally,” Santos said. “Harris’ vision was always to do more for the community and the world. We have done philanthropy around the world and not much of that was ever public, but we will continue helping people who need a helping hand.”

Working side-by-side with Rosen for nearly 39 years, Santos said he’s learned many lessons from

Rosen that he will apply to his leadership in this new era or Rosen Hotels & Resorts.

He said when he joined the company, there was debt that needed to be addressed, and as the CFO, he worked with Rosen to become debt-free. He learned to spend money wisely.

Another lesson was to be kind, especially to the company’s associates and guests.

“For a large group of our associates, I personally write them a birthday card and an anniversary card every year,” Santos said.

Santos said he’s known for years that becoming CEO of Rosen Hotels & Resorts was his destiny.

“I appreciate all of the positive comments I’m getting, both internally and externally,” he said. “I had no idea, truly, that people thought so highly of me. I’m valuing that. I’m cherishing it and trying to keep it in perspective of what my next role will be.”

Filling in the shoes of a legend like Rosen comes with some pressure, but he doesn’t feel overwhelmed, Santos said. Although he has served as CFO for nearly four decades, he said he also has helped with the operational side of the business for the past 15 years.

“I appreciate that (Rosen) thought and knew I could do it,” Santos said of Rosen choosing him as his successor. “I’m going to depend on our associates to keep doing everything they’ve done, and I’m going to be there to just listen and hold a hand.”

Ramos

Frank Santos said he plans to continue Harris Rosen’s vision as CEO of Rosen Hotels & Resorts.

Winter Garden pilot still missing

Michael Louis Sills was reported as a missing and endangered adult in September 2012 by his roommate/ex-girlfriend.

Editor’s note: This is the next in an ongoing series on unsolved crime cases in West Orange.

ANNABELLE SIKES

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

It’s been more than a decade since Winter Garden resident Michael Louis Sills went missing.

Sills, who would be 63 years old this year, was reported as a missing and endangered adult by his roommate/ex-girlfriend, Lynda Pealer, Sept. 11, 2012, after he had expressed suicidal thoughts.

Pealer said Sills, a licensed pilot who owned a private aircraft, threatened to kill himself in his plane or to crash his plane into her residence, because he was upset about their relationship split. Pealer said Sills sent her several text messages indicating he might be attempting to commit suicide. The first read, “in plane.” The second: “Calling police is too late.”

Although Sills’ vehicle was located in the aircraft hanger Sept. 12, 2012, at Orlando-Apopka Airport, with evidence of failed suicide attempts, his plane was and continues to still be missing. No one has seen or heard from Sills since.

HAPPENED TO SILLS?

WHAT

Sills was born Jan. 29, 1949. He is a white male with brown/gray hair and brown eyes. He is about 6 feet, 5 inches tall, and weighs about 200 pounds.

According to police reports, the day before she reported Sills missing, Pealer called the Apopka Police Department in reference to Sills threatening to harm himself. The Apopka PD made contact with Sills at the airport but said he was fine and did not appear to be a threat to himself or anyone else.

Pealer said Sills called her every two hours that night to try to save their relationship. Pealer said Sills mentioned possibly flying to the Florida Keys that weekend, but she was unsure if he did. She said Sills had been Baker Acted in August 2012, and he refused to admit he had mental issues because he did not want to lose his pilot’s license. She said Sills suffered from depression for many years and believed it was getting worse. Sills had lost his job and was no longer close to his sister, and his children refused to have contact with him.

Pealer said she was in a romantic relationship with Sills for about 13 years, until she suspected him of being unfaithful, which led to the break-up.

CAN YOU HELP?

Anyone with information on the case is asked to contact Clarke at (407) 656-3636.

However, the two still were living in the same home.

Pealer had several notes Sills wrote about three to four weeks prior stating he had nothing left to live for and he had lost everything. The notes also told her to sell his vehicle and how to get the tag in her name. Pealer said she was concerned Sills would follow through on his threats and would harm himself or her in the near future.

In the police report from the Winter Garden Police Department, Officer Gail Michaud said they obtained Sills’ cell phone number and provider and attempted to contact him. The call went directly to voicemail, so a message was left requesting Sills contact the WGPD to verify he was not injured.

Michaud also requested dispatch contact Metro PCS to see if an officer could track Sills’ cell phone number. However, Metro PCS said it would take a judge’s order to obtain the information. Michaud then requested dispatch contact the Apopka PD to see if they could respond to the airport hangar to see if the plane or Sills was on site. Information that later came from Metro PCS indicated the last communication from Sills’ cell phone was between noon and 1 p.m. Sept. 11, 2012. The location of the cell tower that was used to make that communication was located on Orange Blossom Trail in the Zellwood area of Orange County, just north of the airport. The closest location Metro PCS could provide for Sills’ cell phone was within a 2-mile radius of the last cell tower site.

Michaud requested the Apopka PD check the area of the airport, specifically the hangar, for Sills or his plane. The Apopka PD responded to the hangar and did not report any suspicious findings. It also checked the entire area of the airport and reported no findings. Winter Garden Officer Thomas Resko, who assisted Michaud with the investigation, requested dispatch contact several other local police departments to check if they had any contact with Sills, which all reported negative results.

Resko also researched the Federal Aviation Administration website to check on any reported small plane crashes in Florida. His search also yielded nothing.

Another Winter Garden officer, Robert Chamberlin, entered the hangar. Sill’s white 2004 Cadillac CTS sedan was parked inside, but the plane was missing.

In the car, police found a disposable blade from a razor knife, red stained towels, a partial roll of silver duct tape, a discarded piece of duct tape on the floor of the driver seat, a set of keys, and a yellow legal pad displaying some handwriting and a red stain. The red stains appeared to be consistent with dried blood, and small smears also were found. It appears Sills might have attempted to intentionally harm himself with the razor blade. The writing on the notepad was barely legible, but Chamberlin read it to state, “Lynda, I never cheated with any of those people.” There was a section of common garden hose in the rear seat with duct tape wrapped around the end. All the windows were up, except the rightrear window, which was found lowered 2 inches, and more duct tape was

located around the tip of the exhaust pipe. Police said the length of the hose, the condition of the windows and the manner in which the duct tape remnants were placed are consistent with a suicide method involving the inhalation of carbon monoxide from vehicle exhaust. Sills might have attempted suicide by utilizing this method, but the catalytic converter found on modern vehicles, such as this Cadillac, eliminate more than 99% of the carbon monoxide.

Barry Lee, who worked at the main office for the airport, said Sills’ plane was equipped with a 50-gallon fuel tank and could remain in the air for four to five hours. Given the average speed of the aircraft at 100 mph, Sills could have traveled up to 500 miles from the airport before requiring fuel or crashing. Additionally, most rural airfields, such as this airport, are not controlled by a tower. No flight plans are filed for local flights, and there is no active radar in the area. Essentially, Sills could be virtually invisible by avoiding all major airports with control towers and active radar. Given the range of the aircraft, and the locations of major airports, he could fly as far south as the Florida Keys or as far north as Pensacola before he would be identified by tail number.

Lee personally knows Sills and thought he heard his voice over the airport radio frequency Sept. 11, 2012, possibly taking off around 9:30 a.m.

Given the circumstances and the potential threat created by Sills and his aircraft, Chamberlin determined it was necessary to contact the FAA, which began an investigation and notified the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

On Sept. 13, 2012, Chamberlin received detailed information from

Metro PCS about Sills’ cell phone. The data reviewed included the detailed call records and cell site information. After the last call, the phone was turned off or the battery was expended in the area of Belleview, near the Ocala National Forest. No emergency beacon activations were reported. All known financial institutions were queried for recent activity with negative results. A request was sent out through FraudNet to locate potentially unknown accounts, but none was discovered. All other known accounts were closed and inactive for several years.

CASE GOES COLD

Pealer provided names and contact numbers for Sills’ ex-wife, Myna, and two adult sons, Andrew and Todd. Myna Sills and Todd Sills returned Chamberlin’s calls and indicated they had not heard from Michael Sills for quite some time. Neither knew where he might have been heading to when he left Apopka. They both said Andrew Sills had nothing to do with his father and was not likely to get involved with the investigation.

Chamberlin also spoke with Westley Calderon, who Pealer indicated Sills was frequently giving flight lessons. She accused them of being in a homosexual relationship, although she had no evidence. Calderon said he had not heard from Sills since long before his disappearance and had no specific information but gave the Florida Keys or Canada as possible destinations.

Chamberlin received a response from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and Canadian Customs in regards to the search for Sills. They advised neither Sills nor his plane had entered Canada, as they would have caught it traveling in from the Unites States and made contact with him no matter where he entered. Chamberlin also enlisted the assistance of the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, whose intelligence and analysis group was asked to conduct in-depth searches and database inquiries for Sills. This produced no leads on Sills’

whereabouts or destination.

On Jan. 23, 2013, Chamberlin received a call from Susan Wallis, in France, who was seeking information about her brother, Michael Sills. She had heard rumors of his disappearance and found news articles on the internet but wanted to get some confirmation from the authorities. She had no new information and did not know of her brother’s whereabouts.

On July 15, 2013, the case was assigned to David Clarke as the cold case homicide investigator. Clarke entered Sills into the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System July 3, 2014.

On July 17, 2014, Wallis advised she last spoke via Skype with Sills two to three days prior to his disappearance. Wallis advised he sounded “very depressed and hopeless.” She said she would not be surprised if her brother committed suicide. Clarke mailed four packaged sterile swabs and the required NAMUS paperwork to be completed by Wallis. On Sept. 10, 2014, the swabs and paperwork were submitted to NAMUS. Another DNA sample was needed but was unable to be provided by Wallis because of the distance and expense required to travel for the sample, she said.

On Aug. 12, 2019, Clarke received a FlightAware alert notification that the tail number of Sills’ airplane was recorded that morning. Upon reviewing the notification, it appeared an airplane bearing the same tail number was recorded at the Bountiful Airport in Utah. The notification also advised the plane departed the airport at 9:43 a.m. and returned at 10:45 a.m. Officer Kimberly Burton, of the Bountiful Police Department, contacted Clarke and advised that although the airport did document the tail number, it was most likely an error. Burton further advised she walked the airport and spoke with several employees who indicated the plane was not there. As of Oct. 28, 2019, there has been no additional information as to the whereabouts of Sills. All areas of notification are still active and in effect.

Courtesy photos

Michael Louis Sills is a licensed pilot and owns his own aircraft, pictured here.

Left: Winter Garden resident Michael Louis Sills, who would be 63 years old, has been missing since 2012.

Hawat bringing opera performance to Garden Theatre

IF YOU GO

“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

TICKETS: $40, available at bit.ly/3D1dveX

DETAILS: The city of Winter Garden is presenting a magical holiday opera evening concert to celebrate the season. The festive performances will blend classical repertoire with beloved Christmas carols featuring world-class soprano Samar Salamé Hawat. For these events, the Garden Theatre is open and operational.

AMY QUESINBERRY PRICE COMMUNITY EDITOR

Samar Salamé Hawat credits her extraordinary singing career, in part, to the Irish alternative rock band The Cranberries.

“I used to sing with the radio,” she said. “At 16, there was a song called ‘Zombie,’ by The Cranberries, and I couldn’t sing it; it was difficult. I told my mommy I wanted to learn how to sing so I can sing that song.”

Hawat, auditioned as a teen for the Lebanese National Conservatory, in her home country of Lebanon, and studied music. This led her to a singing career that has taken her to opera houses and stages all across the globe, and she has sung twice for the pope.

“I just wanted to sing ‘Zombie,’” Hawat said with a laugh.

The performer now calls Windermere her home with her husband of nine years and their two children.

And this Christmas, she will bring her vocal talents to Winter Garden at Holiday Opera at the Garden, with shows at 7 p.m. Saturdays, Dec. 14 and 21, at the Garden Theatre, 160 W. Plant St.

Hawat said her show will combine classical music and Christmas carols — two of her favorite genres. The first half will feature music such as Handel, Mozart and Caccini, while the second part will give the audience a selection of holiday favorites.

She said her 8-year-old daughter has been teaching her the songs in English.

“The Christmas carols I’m used to more singing in French,” Hawat said.

“I have the paper printed in English. Some songs I’m used to singing in French; I’ll sing one line in French and two in English. My first language is French, and I’m more comfortable in French.”

group, only to find out each performer had to sing a solo. Hawat belted out “Ave Maria.” And it changed her life.

“I always said that there is a path that is drawn,” she said. “Sometimes, I say the opera chose me. It’s not part of my culture, not part of my surroundings, and it came to me by coincidence. … It was like a path, and that’s why I’m trustful and I follow the path. … When you feel like you’re at the right place, it’s a blessing.”

EUROPEAN DREAM Hawat began entertaining audiences on stages throughout Europe.

She moved to Naples, Italy, where she joined the Neapolitan Company, Media Aetas, singing and acting throughout Italy in the show “L’Opera Buffa Del Giovedi Santo.” She toured for one year with the widely known maestro, Roberto De Simone.

“I did a tour with all Italy; it was a great experience, so I decided I wanted to do that,” Hawat said.

She also ranked as a finalist in the Competition of Mattia Battistini of Rieti, sang in the choir of Stefano Cucci collaborating with Maestro Ennio Morricone and performed as a soloist in various concerts.

To broaden her horizons and propel her career, she joined the National Conservatory of Rome, Santa Cecilia, where, after five years, she received her singing degree in 2006.

“I started all again,” she said. “In Lebanon, it’s not the culture to sing opera. In Italy, everyone sings; it’s in their blood.”

Her next move was to Paris, where she lived for more than a dozen years, performing in and around Europe.

She sang in many performances, was the interpreter of an original work, and performed the double role of Serpina and Lucy in a double show at the theater La Boutonnière.

Hawat participated in many renowned festivals in Lebanon, where she interpreted numerous roles and did her own concerts and shows. She sang at The National Lebanese Museum.

She created and performed the show “Les Mystères Lyriques” in Paris and at the International Festival of Byblos.

She served as artistic director, producer and singer of a live dinner musical. She created and performed the show “Crazy Opera,” which she performed at a Byblos festival in Lebanon and at the opening of the opera season in Bahrain. She did the same with a show called “Sacré Profane.”

She said it is exhilarating to be in charge of making all the different pieces fit exactly as she envisioned.

Hawat is part of the Peace and Prosperity Trust, in London, where she has performed in various events including an audience with King Charles III.

Performing with her will be a Romanian pianist with whom she has collaborated on stage in the past.

‘OPERA CHOSE ME’

Hawat has always loved singing — even before she realized it would become a passion and a career for her.

But, when she heard that Cranberries song and was having trouble hitting all the right notes, she took on the challenge of learning how to properly sing “Zombie.”

After being accepted at the conservatory in Lebanon, Hawat had to make a choice, she said: Oriental music or opera.

“So I went to opera, and then I discovered a new world,” she said.

In the beginning, she expected opera singing would be more of a hobby, because she also was taking audio-visual studies. However, at age 23, she signed up to sing in a

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Of all the shows she has performed, Hawat said her favorite opera is Puccini’s “Tosca.”

“It’s gorgeous,” she said. “I love drama, to-the-extreme drama. The music is beautiful.”

She loves performing with close friend Fabrice di Falco.

“When you get along with someone to work with, it’s a blessing,” she said.

She sang for Pope Benedict XVI — and about 350,000 other people — during his visit to Beirut in 2012. Her debut in the United States was with a concert at Florida Tech and at many St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital galas.

With two young children at home, Hawat has slowed down. She will go on small trips to perform, but she said her touring days are over for now.

She is grateful for the opportunity to sing locally and share her love of music with the community.

WEST ORANGE TIMES

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Amy Quesinberry

Samar Salamé Hawat, a soprano in the opera community, lives in Windermere and will give two special performances this month at the Garden Theatre.

Courtesy photo

Samar Salamé Hawat has performed in concert halls and on stages around the globe.

Lives Changed, Hope Restored

When many think of the homeless, their minds conjure the stereotypical image — a downtrodden individual who has succumbed to an addiction and whose life goal never stretches further than getting the next fix. They’re the panhandlers, the drunks, the ones passed out on city park benches.

But, that’s not necessarily the case these days, says Scott Billue, founder of Matthew’s Hope Ministries.

More accurately, they are seniors, those with physical and mental disabilities, and they are the working homeless, to include even teachers, first responders and veterans. They’re living and working among us. But instead of retiring to a home or apartment at the end of a long day of work, they retreat to the back seat of their aging cars, hoping to be able to contort their bodies in just the right way to catch some sleep before daylight.

And with Florida House Bill 1365 going into effect Oct. 1, 2024, it’s now illegal for the homeless to sleep outside.“Anxiety is off the charts,” Billue says. “I’ve seen grown men sob because they’re just so tired. And they’re being told, ‘You can’t be here.’”

One of the fastest-growing demographics among the homeless are Baby Boomers, Billue says.

“Baby Boomers are aging out of the workforce, and many are retiring with pensions that were never designed for this economy,” he says. “Then, if their spouse dies, their income goes down even more, and they find themselves homeless, often sleeping in cars as they’ve lost everything else.”

Another growing demographic are people with special needs.

“They’re outliving their caregivers,” Billue says. “And disability is $709 per month. You can’t do anything with that. Throw the lack of affordable apartments into the mix, and you have now created the perfect storm.” This, Billue says, is the new face of homelessness.

Since 2010, Matthew’s Hope has held steady to its mission — providing hope to the homeless and, perhaps more accurately, the hopeless.

Through its food pantry, Matthew’s Hope fills empty bellies. Through its mobile outreach, Matthew’s Hope delivers food, hygiene products and clothing to those unable to travel. Through its transitional housing, Matthew’s Hope gives shelter. Through its Firm Foundation Preschool, Matthew’s Hope provides young children a safe place to learn and grow. And through its medical services, Matthew’s Hope provides mental health care, transportation to appointments, helps fulfill prescriptions and more.

It costs $15 million per year to make Matthew’s Hope happen, and since the COVID-19 pandemic, the organization has been running on a $500,000 deficit.

But in this season of giving, an anonymous angel has brought the promise of hope to Matthew’s Hope itself. From now through the end of the year, every dollar donated will be matched — up to $1 million. What’s more, the donor also has pledged to match any recurring donations. That means the blessings from this grant

can continue into 2025.

“Matthew’s Hope is designed to move people forward toward a life of independence and self-sustainability, ”Billue says. “We are looking to get people on the right side of life — so they’re not dependent on places like Matthew’s Hope and/or taxpayer dollars the rest of their lives.”

FOR MATTHEW’S HOPE SUCCESS STORIES, READ THE FULL STORY HERE

MATTHEW’S HOPE YEAR END FUNDRAISER

Thanks to an anonymous donor, every Matthew’s Hope donation through the end of the year will be matched — up to $1 million. To donate, scan the QR code above.

Ocoee again halts Forest Lake Golf Club’s lease assignment sale

The Ocoee commission denied Forest Lake Golf Club’s request to assign J.A. Hospitality as the course’s new leaseholders.

SPORTS EDITOR

Forest Lake Golf Club, owners of the golf club — and leaseholders of the City of Ocoee-owned land on which the club operates — once again saw its request to assign J.A. Hospitality as the property’s new leaseholders denied, 5-0, by the Ocoee City Commission at the Dec. 3 commission meeting.

City Attorney Kurt Ardaman presented the commission with a lengthy report detailing why city staff and its consultants do not believe J.A. Hospitality would make a viable operator of the golf club and recommended the commission deny the assignment.

“Given the concerns that I’ve just outlined, including, without limitation, the lack of requisite experience, the resources (and an) understanding of the property’s issues, approving the lease assignment at this time would pose significant risk to the city,” Ardaman said. “(Risks include) potential operational and management failures, unresolved compliance issues and financial instability. That’s what your staff, attorneys and consultants have concluded.”

Following Ardaman’s presentation and responses by Forest Lake’s three representatives present at the meeting, the commission felt there were too many questions regarding J.A. Hospitality to approve its assignment to the lease.

“I don’t know — I’m just not comfortable in allowing my residents’ property to be given assignment (in this way),” City Commissioner Rosemary Wilsen said. “To me … this is not firmed up (and) I would want more information. There’s just too many negatives here.”

Forest Lake’s request to reassign the lease is part of a $7 million deal in which the Ocoee-based golf club and the rights to operate the club on the city-owned land would be sold to J.A. Hospitality. This agreement does not include the sale of the physical land the club operates on, which is not owned by the golf club but by the city.

IN OTHER NEWS

n The Ocoee City Commission approved a 15-item consent agenda by a unanimous vote and without discussion at its Dec. 3 meeting. Among the consent agenda items was the approval of a redesign of the return-activated sludge manifold station at the City of Ocoee Wastewater Treatment Plant and the approval of the indemnification agreement with DKC Ocoee Village Center for the Southeast commercial development water infrastructure.

n The commission also approved the appointment of James Cummins to the Citizens Advisory Council for the Ocoee Fire Department, filling the vacated seat on the board. Cummins will serve on the CACOFD for the remainder of the vacated position’s term, which runs until November 2025.

n The contract to officially make G3 Development Ocoee’s master developer for its downtown project was approved. The Mount Dora-based developer will serve as the city’s general consultant regarding the downtown master plan by advising the city on how specific projects, either owned by the city or other parties, might be developed to meet the intent of the downtown master plan or other special development plans. G3 will also assist the city in vetting interested developers, and beyond serving as the master developer, it also will be the construction manager on specific sites, as agreed upon by the city and G3.

n The renewal of the Ocoee Fire Department’s affiliation agreement with the Orlando Medical Institute was approved by the commission. This agreement allows personnel attending the paramedic school to complete their ride time requirements on Ocoee’s emergency rescue units and receive credit toward their education.

n Budgeted purchases of four new vehicles, a heavy-duty vehicle lift and a trailer — for a total cost of more than $365,000 — were approved by the commission. The four vehicles purchased from the Florida Sheriff’s Association were a $81,911 Ford F-350 with a lift gate for the facilities department, a $51,693 Ford F-250 for the parks department and two Ford T-350 Transit high-roof passenger vans for the recreation department also for $54,470 each. The city spent $114,040.71 on the heavy-duty vehicle lift and $8,500 on the open trailer for the JLG Crawler Boom.

NEWS BRIEFS

WINDERMERE DOCTOR ARRESTED FOR WIFE’S MURDER

Windermere Police Department officers last week arrested Dr. Thomas Wentzell for the murder of his wife, Linda Wentzell.

“On Dec. 2, 2024, at approximately 1:30 a.m., officers from the Windermere Police Department were dispatched to 616 Magnolia St. following a report of a deceased woman, Mrs. Linda Wentzell,” Windermere Police Chief Dave Ogden wrote in a media release. “Mrs. Wentzell and her husband, (Dr.) Thomas Wentzell, resided at the address and were the only individuals present at the time.

“Upon arrival, our responding officer promptly identified the need for a thorough investigation based on initial observations, witness statements and the overall circumstances at the scene,” he wrote. “To ensure a comprehensive investigation, the scene was secured, search warrants obtained and assistance was requested from the Winter Garden Police Department. ... Initial interviews revealed significant inconsistencies in (Dr.) Wentzell’s account of events, raising further questions.”

Following the initial dispatch to the scene, police received a dispatch that led to the arrest of Dr. Thomas Wentzell, 72, and charge of seconddegree murder.

“At approximately 9:55 a.m. on Dec. 5, the Ocoee Police Department, which shares a radio channel with WPD, received a dispatch call reporting that (Dr.) Thomas Wentzell had expressed suicidal intentions,” Ogden wrote. “According to the caller, (Dr.) Wentzell confessed that he ‘deserved to die’ because he had killed his wife. Recognizing the connection to the ongoing investigation, WPD officers immediately responded to the scene. (Dr.) Wentzell was taken into custody without incident and transported to the Windermere Police Department, where he was interviewed by Detective (Mark) Wilson and (Winter Garden Police) Detective Kevin Berger. During the interview, (Dr.) Wentzell confessed to the murder of his wife.”

Additional evidence found during the investigation included a voicemail confession left for a loved one and a suicide note.

CONFLICT INTENSIFIES BETWEEN ELECTIONS SUPERVISOR, COUNTY

Orange County Supervisor of Elections Glen Gilzean said the county’s action of withholding funds from his office not only is illegal but also threatens the office’s ability to pay staff, partners and vendors.

“(Comptroller) Phil Diamond made poor assumptions and misled county commissioners into taking a misguided vote to suspend this office’s funding,” Gilzean said in a prepared statement. “These actions will result in staff, municipal partners and vendors

not being paid promptly. We have provided the comptroller with every document he has requested and hope he takes immediate action to reverse course.”

However, in his own statement, Diamond said his office discovered Gilzean wrote 224 checks totaling almost $4.3 million over the weekend — essentially draining the bank account.

“He paid these checks while knowing full well that he is required to meet his employees approximately $250,000 payroll this week,” Diamond said. “Sadly, he irresponsibly chose not to prioritize his employees.

“Unfortunately, he also recently chose to give over $1.1 million in unbudgeted funds to another nonprofit,” he said. “Under the law, he was only entitled to receive 38.64% of his budget. However, he has received 50%. The records he gave us show that he has spent nearly the entire 50%. This spending rate greatly exceeds the limit he is allowed to spend by Florida law.” Gilzean said that $4.3 million is not accurate.

“The comptroller was operating with a failed understanding of the supervisor’s office’s other liabilities, including outstanding invoices for election services, security services provided by the Orange County Sheriff’s Office and additional earlyvoting sites,” he said. A significant portion of these bills arrived in our office following the November General Election and have been processed, totaling more than $4.5 million.”

Moreover, the supervisor’s budget consists of three buckets, including personnel, capital outlay and operations, he said. According to Florida Statutes, the supervisor’s office does not have the authority to move money between object codes after Oct. 1.

“To meet payroll between now and Jan. 6, the supervisor’s office requires approximately $630,566.30,” Gilzean said. “Simply put, the supervisor’s office will not have the necessary funds to make payroll due to the comptroller’s recommendation to withhold funds.

“The comptroller is knowingly misleading the public,” he said. “Our office can either make payroll or pay vendors, but not both. To make matters worse, the comptroller knows I do not have the authority to move money into that account. Those are the rules; that is the law. Unless the comptroller wants me to knowingly break the law, there is no way for this office to make payroll through my last week in office.”

ORLANDO HEALTH RECEIVES ‘A’ RATINGS

All Orlando Health legacy hospitals — including West Orange County’s Health Central, Dr. P. Phillips and Horizon West hospitals — have received “A” ratings from the Leapfrog Group, an independent nonprofit organization committed to driving quality, safety and transparency in the United States health system.

Orlando Health’s Orlando Regional Medical Center, South Lake and South Seminole hospitals also earned “A” grades for patient safety in the fall 2024 reporting period.

This marks the 13th consecutive “A” grade for Orlando Health South Lake and the seventh “A” grade in a row for ORMC and Dr. P. Phillips.

The Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade is the only hospital ratings program exclusively based on hospital prevention of medical errors, infections and injuries that cause more than 500 mortalities per day nationally.

“The ‘A’ grades reflect our unwavering commitment to maintaining the highest standards of safety and quality health care for our patients,” said George Ralls, chief medical officer for Orlando Health. “In keeping with our mission to improve the health and quality of life of the individuals and communities we serve, we will continue to strive toward achieving ‘A’ grades at every Orlando Health hospital.”

Dr. Thomas Wentzell

Glen Gilzean

Phil Diamond

BAPTIST

First Baptist Church

Pastor Tim Grosshans

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

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

Golden Oak estates sells for $6 million

Ahome in the Golden Oak community in Southwest Orange topped all West Orange-area residential realestate transactions from Dec. 1 to 8.

VISTA CAY AT HARBOR SQUARE

The townhouse at 4845 Tidecrest Ave., No. 148, Orlando, sold Dec. 6, for $555,000. Built in 2006, it has three bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 1,771 square feet of living area. Days on market: 340.

GOTHA

TOWN OF GOTHA

EPISCOPAL

Church of the Messiah

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

METHODIST

First United Methodist www.fumcwg.org

The home at 10077 Golden Touch Way, Golden Oak, sold Dec. 3, for $6 million. Built in 2022, it has three bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 3,184 square feet of living area. Days on market: One. The sellers were represented by Gregory Foxx, Golden Oak Realty.

The home at 1243 Dingens Ave., Gotha, sold Dec. 2, for $600,000. Built in 1969, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,502 square feet of living area. Days on market: 115.

HORIZON WEST

HAMLIN RESERVE

The home at 15533 Tangelo Twist Alley, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 4, for $600,000. Built in 2019, it has four bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 2,476 square feet of living area. Days on market: 164.

HAMLIN RIDGE

CHURCH DIRECTORY

STARKE LAKE BAPTIST

CHURCH

PO Box 520, 611 W Ave, Ocoee

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

CHURCH OF GOD

OCOEE CHURCH OF GOD

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

EPISCOPAL CHURCH OF THE MESSIAH

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

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

DR. PHILLIPS

BAY HILL VILLAGE

The townhouse at 16242 Castelo Lime Alley, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 3, for $440,990. Built in 2024, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,644 square feet of living area. Days on market: 144.

The townhouse at 16440 Hamlin Hills Road, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 5, for $434,610. Built in 2024, it has three bedrooms, two-andone-half baths and 1,654 square feet of living area.

HAWKSMOOR

The home at 6082 Jamestown Park, No. 115, Orlando, sold Dec. 5, for $835,000. Built in 1988, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,475 square feet of living area. Days on market: 45.

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

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BAY VISTA ESTATES

The home at 8627 Bay View Court, Orlando, sold Dec. 5, for $796,000. Built in 1986, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,632 square feet of living area. Days on market: Three.

GRANADA VILLAS

The home at 7934 S. Marbella Court, Orlando, sold Dec. 3, for $540,000. Built in 1985, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,619 square feet of living area. Days on market: 46.

HIDDEN SPRINGS

The home at 7718 Pine Springs Drive, Orlando, sold Dec. 6, for $635,000. Built in 1986, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,378 square feet of living area. Days on market: 15.

The home at 16854 Wingspread Loop, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 4, for $740,000. Built in 2021, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,576 square feet of living area. Days on market: Two.

INDEPENDENCE/ SIGNATURE LAKES

The home at 14448 Avenue of the Rushes, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 6, for $1,101,250. Built in 2012, it has five bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths and 4,043 square feet of living area. Days on market: 26.

The townhouse at 14420 Pleach St., Winter Garden, sold Dec. 3, for $350,000. Built in 2006, it has two bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,448 square feet of living area. Days on market: 28.

LAKES OF WINDERMERE

The home at 12639 Haddon Drive, Windermere, sold Dec. 2, for $630,000. Built in 2003, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,480 square feet of living area. Days on market: 11.

LAKESIDE AT LAKES OF WINDERMERE

The home at 5632 Pitch Pine Drive, Orlando, sold Dec. 5, for $540,000. Built in 1982, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,122 square feet of living area. Days on market: Three.

SHADOW BAY SPRINGS

The home at 5652 Baybrook Ave., Orlando, sold Dec. 3, for $470,000. Built in 1983, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,802 square feet of living area. Days on market: 38.

SOUTH BAY

The home at 8719 S. Bay Drive, Orlando, sold Dec. 2, for $800,000. Built in 1984, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,518 square feet of living area.

The condo at 11434 Jasper Kay Terrace, No. 202, Windermere, sold Dec. 3, for $310,000. Built in 2007, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,442 square feet of living area. Days on market: 32.

LAKEVIEW POINTE

The home at 7218 Enchanted Lake Drive, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 2, for $635,000. Built in 2016, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,014 square feet of living area. Days on market: Two.

OASIS COVE I

TANGELO PARK

The home at 7209 Udine Ave., Orlando, sold Dec. 2, for $315,000. Built in 1960, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,000 square feet of living area. Days on market: 72.

The condo at 8031 Enchantment Drive, Unit GE, Windermere, sold Dec. 4, for $382,500. Built in 2007, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 1,826 square feet of living area. Days on market: 94.

SUMMERLAKE

The home at 8105 Atlantic Puffin St., Winter Garden, sold Dec. 2, for $699,000. Built in 2014, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 3,272 square feet of living area. Days on market: Four.

The home at 14413 Magnolia Ridge Loop, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 3, for $570,000. Built in 2015, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 2,203 square feet. Days on market: 56.

SILVERLEAF RESERVE

BUNGALOWS

The home at 4867 Coral Bean Alley, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 3, for $520,000. Built in 2024, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,788 square feet of living area. Days on market: 29.

The home at 7612 Loon Ave., Winter Garden, sold Dec. 4, for $589,900. Built in 2017, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,133 square feet of living area. Days on market: 46.

SUMMERPORT

The townhouse at 14225 Confetti Drive, Windermere, sold Dec. 2, for $416,000. Built in 2004, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 1,882 square feet of living area. Days on market: Three.

TILDEN PLACE

The home at 14390 Wabasso Loop, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 4, for $880,000. Built in 2022, it has five bedrooms, three baths and 3,595 square feet of living area. Days on market: Two.

WATERLEIGH

The home at 10043 Sway St., Winter Garden, sold Dec. 3, for $745,491. Built in 2024, it has five bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths and 3,225 square feet of living area.

The home at 14930 Guava Bay Drive, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 3, for $490,000. Built in 2019, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,063 square feet of living area. Days on market: 165.

WEST LAKE HANCOCK ESTATES

The home at 7507 Green Mountain Way, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 3, for $1,280,000. Built in 2021, it has five bedrooms, three baths, two half-baths and 4,120 square feet of living area. Days on market: 247.

WINDERMERE LANDINGS

The home at 6352 Golden Dewdrop Trail, Windermere, sold Dec. 2, for $495,000. Built in 2012, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,984 square feet of living area. Days on market: Nine.

WINDERMERE TRAILS

The home at 11924 Perspective Drive, Windermere, sold Dec. 6, for $725,000. Built in 2017, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 3,635 square feet. Days on market: 108.

The home at 8308 Bryce Canyon Ave., Windermere, sold Dec. 2, for $530,000. Built in 2016, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,065 square feet of living area. Days on market: Four.

OCOEE

ARDEN PARK NORTH

The home at 2862 American Elm Cove, Ocoee, sold Dec. 5, for $505,000. Built in 2021, it has five bedrooms, three baths and 2,555 square feet. Days on market: Six.

LAKE OLYMPIA NORTH VILLAGE

The home at 1325 Olympia Park Circle, Ocoee, sold Dec. 4, for $471,000. Built in 1991, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,993 square feet of living area. Days on market: 59.

LAKEVIEW

The home at 506 E. Silver Star Road, Ocoee, sold Dec. 6, for $520,000. Built in 2003, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,428 square feet of living area. Days on market: Six.

MARION PARK

The home at 11618 Camden Park Drive, Windermere, sold Dec. 6, for $970,000. Built in 2006, it has four bedrooms, four baths and 3,635 square feet. Days on market: 45.

ROBERTS LANDING

The home at 1614 Roberts Landing Road, Windermere, sold Dec. 2, for $767,000. Built in 1987, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,508 square feet. Days on market: 32.

WINDERMERE DOWNS

The home at 2551 Meadowview Circle, Windermere, sold Dec. 2, for $1,310,000. Built in 1979, it has five bedrooms, five baths and 4,118 square feet. Days on market: 64.

WINTER GARDEN

ALEXANDER RIDGE

The home at 2110 Cestius Road, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 6, for $740,000. Built in 2016, it has five bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 3,764 square feet. Days on market: Four.

DUNBAR MANOR

The home at 1401 Basin St., Winter Garden, sold Dec. 5, for $270,000. Built in 1982, it has three bedrooms, one-and-one-half baths and 1,092 square feet. Days on market: 22.

LAKE APOPKA SOUND

The home at 17971 Hither Hills Circle, Winter Garden, Lake County, sold Dec. 4, for $594,000. Built in 2022, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,097 square feet. Days on market: 10.

LAKE COVE POINTE

The home at 611 Lake Cove Pointe Circle, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 6, for $740,000. Built in 2014, it has five bedrooms, two baths and 2,225 square feet. Days on market: 69.

LAKE ROBERTS LANDING

The home at 1826 Blackwater Court, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 6, for $990,000. Built in 2008, it has five bedrooms, four baths and 3,846 square feet of living area. Days on market: Seven.

OAKLAND PARK

The home at 10272 Atwater Bay Drive, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 3, for $610,000. Built in 2018, it has five bedrooms, four baths and 2,840 square feet of living area. Days on market: 65.

WATERMARK

The home at 7628 Lake Hancock Blvd., Winter Garden, sold Dec. 3, for $580,000. Built in 2016, it has six bedrooms, three baths and 2,643 square feet of living area. Days on market: 181.

The home at 14716 Scott Key Drive, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 3, for $880,000. Built in 2018, it has five bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths and 3,925 square feet of living area. Days on market: 75.

The home at 115 Lafayette St., Ocoee, sold Dec. 6, for $425,000. Built in 1984, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,605 square feet of living area. Days on market: Six.

WINDERMERE KEENE’S POINTE

The home at 8039 Whitford Court, Windermere, sold Dec. 3, for $1,300,000. Built in 2002, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 3,043 square feet of living area. Days on market: 27.

The home at 1204 Oak Fort Lane, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 4, for $836,225. Built in 2024, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,254 square feet. Days on market: 109.

ORCHARD

The townhouse at 429 Winter Nellis Circle, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 5, for $370,000. Built in 2006, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,758 square feet of living area. Days on market: 88.

redfin.com

The home at 10077 Golden Touch Way, Golden Oak, sold Dec. 3, for $6 million. A distinctive French roofline and an opulent front window grace the façade of this European cottage. The sellers were represented by Gregory Foxx, Golden Oak Realty.

Brad Carter | Image that Photography

The home at 506 E. Silver Star Road, Ocoee, sold Dec. 6, for $520,000. It was the largest transaction in Ocoee from Dec. 1 to 8. The sellers were represented by Kathy Hlinka, Southern Realty Enterprises Inc.

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SPORTS

HIGH 5

1Dr. Phillips football’s magical 2024 run, fueled by its senior class, ends as the Panthers fell on the road in the FHSAA Class 7A State Semifinals to Lake Mary High, 24-13. “I’m extremely proud of this group,” coach Rodney Wells said following the loss. “These guys have fought since they were freshmen; they’ve been playing since they were sophomores. So to get here, to get to the Final Four — obviously (it’s) not what we wanted — but it’s a great feat and they have nothing to hang their heads about.”

After the Rams (12-2) opened up the game by scoring 10 unanswered points, the Panthers (12-2) responded with a long pitch-and-catch touchdown from quarterback Stanley Anderson-Lofton to receiver Mykel Calixte, making it a 10-6 game in the second quarter.

Dr. Phillips came out in the third and took a 13-10 lead on a short TD run by senior running back Amari Major. Unfortunately for Panther Nation, the home team took back control of the game from that point on.

2Windermere High and Olympia High will both host a holiday charity toy drive at a home athletic event against the other school Friday, Dec. 13.

Starting at 7 p.m., the newlook Titans (4-3) boys basketball team not only will welcome the Wolverines (5-1) to Mount Olympus for a rivalry game, but also — with help from Olympia’s Student Government Association — for a toy drive. The Titans are asking those in attendance to bring and donate a new and unwrapped toy to help families in need during the holiday season.

On the flip side, starting at 7:30 p.m., the Windermere boys soccer team (7-1) will host the Titans (3-1-3) in a rivalry matchup and holiday toy drive of its own benefiting national nonprofit organization Toys for Tots.

With the help of a children’s rights advocate group and nonprofit, The Very Gary Foundation, organizers are asking those planning on attending to take and donate a new, storebought and unopened toy or book. Those who donate will be entered into a drawing at halftime for a chance to win four tickets to the Orlando Magic game against the Utah Jazz Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025.

3West Orange High senior baseball player Keith Holden announced his commitment to Rollins College.

The 6-foot, right-handed pitcher has shown massive improvement on the club circuit and is expected to be a big-time contributor for West Orange come the spring.

4

Former Ocoee Knights standout athlete Jordan Phillips, a redshirt sophomore football player at Maryland, has announced his decision to declare for the 2025 NFL Draft.

Phillips recorded 57 total tackles, 2.5 of which were for a loss, and played in all 25 games during his two seasons as a Terrapin. Before transferring to Maryland, he appeared in three games for Tennessee in 2022.

5

The Dr. Phillips girls basketball team topped Ocoee, 53-25, to win the Metro West Conference tournament championship Dec. 6.

After

of

last

Early Byrd special

TFA’s L.J. Byrd scored 24 points and grabbed 13 rebounds to lead the Royals to an overtime victory against Windermere Prep. The win broke a seven-game losing streak that dated back to December 2020.

SAM ALBUQUERQUE SPORTS EDITOR

When Omar Little, a beloved character from the hit HBO series “The Wire,” mixed a little of his personality with a quote from philosopher Ralph Waldo Emerson, the world got one of the most iconic lines ever uttered on television.

“When you come at the king, you best not miss,” he said.

The line was so simple, with an elegance that is only surpassed by how terrifying the saying’s unspoken ending is.

Well, in the world of smaller classification boys high school basketball in West Orange and Southwest Orange, there has been a clear king in recent years — the Windermere Prep Lakers. Over the past five seasons, the Lakers have won four district championships, two region titles and reached the Class 3A state finals the past two seasons.

THE ROYALS DIDN’T MISS

With the return of leading scorer Brandon Bass Jr. — a four-star prospect with offers from a heap of Power 4 programs — and South Alabama signee Sam Shoptaw for Lakers coach Brian Hoff, Windermere Prep came into 2024-25 as the favorite among the area’s lower classification teams to retake its spot as the king of the hardwood.

That is until the Lakers went on the road to The Cramer Family Field House to face The First Academy — a team Windermere Prep hasn’t lost to since December 2020, beating TFA in seven consecutive games.

But with freshman phenom L.J. Byrd leading the way for the newlook team under first-year TFA coach Tarrik Mabon, let’s just say when the Royals took their first chance to go at the king, they didn’t miss.

At the jump of this Dec. 5 matchup, everything seemed status quo for the Lakers; they didn’t allow a TFA lead through the first three quarters. The fourth, however, was a different story, as Byrd, a 6-foot-6 swingman, showed why he’s the most exciting prospect in the area.

“As a freshman, he’s already a jack of all trades,” Mabon said of Byrd. “He can jump. He can score inside. He can score outside. He’s got a little bit of handle to him, to go with his 6-foot-6 frame. Not to mention his body is still growing. … His physical upside is truly a college coach’s dream.

“But my job, for the next four seasons, is to sharpen all of those tools,” he said. “In the short time he’s been with us, we’ve seen a lot of growth in his game. For example, he wasn’t the best shooter when he got here, so we spent a lot of time on his shot. Honestly, he didn’t have any confidence in his shot at first. But now, just look

Scott Frost’s rehiring as UCF football coach shows how Knights have fallen

Although the Frost-led Knights catapulted the program into the mainstream, that run was fueled by innovation, not the nostalgic longing for the past this hire indicates.

SAM ALBUQUERQUE SPORTS EDITOR

As UCF Director of Athletics Terry Mohajir finished introducing Scott Frost as the Knights’ next football coach and welcomed him on stage during his introductory press conference, Mohajir presented his new coach with a black UCF jersey with the name Frost written on the back and the No. 10 — representing Frost’s slot as the 10th coach in program history.

After the two posed for pictures with the jersey, as NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell does at the draft with first-round picks, Frost stepped to the podium to speak, and

these were his first words: “Well, 10’s not my number, but maybe we know somebody else that can use that.” The crowd laughed then cheered at the reference to legendary Knights quarterback McKenzie Milton, who wore the number for the 2017 UCF team that finished 13-0 — Frost’s second and final season in Orlando before he took over his alma mater’s football program, Nebraska. Instead of cheering, though, I couldn’t help but notice a theme throughout the presser that I kept seeing regarding the hire: nostalgia. All I could hear while Frost gave his tenure-opening address, or even

showing flashes

potential

year, Windermere boys soccer’s Francesco “Checo” Sánchez has emerged as the Wolverines’ next great goal-scorer. Page 2B.

Francesco Sánchez

The 2023-24 season was historic for the Windermere High boys soccer program. The team won its first-ever regional title and finished with a 16-2-1 record, largely thanks to its seniors — who combined to score 58 of its 85 total goals.

Despite more than two-thirds of Windermere’s offensive production graduating — including top scorer and Gatorade Florida Boys Soccer Player of the Year Jose Moyetones — the question of how the Wolverines (7-1) would replace those goals in 2024-25 wasn’t much of a question at all, thanks to junior forward Francesco “Checo” Sánchez.

Sánchez is not only leading Windermere to wins, but also he is on track to surpass Moyetones’ 2023-24 total of 26 goals. Through eight games, he’s scored 18 times and dished out four assists.

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

It’s a great honor to be named Athlete of the Week. This makes me feel like I’m on the right track, and it’s a motivation to keep working.

What do you like the most about soccer?

I enjoy the feeling of winning and the people I’ve met while playing this sport.

What is your goal for this season — for yourself and the team?

I want to give my best for the team and help us become champions in every competition we’re in.

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned from soccer? Soccer taught me that you can’t win all the time. But if you learn from your mistakes, you can move forward even better.

What is your favorite soccer memory?

My favorite memory was when my team won a cup championship in Colombia. It was a very special moment for me.

Who is your favorite athlete? Lionel Messi because he is the best soccer player in the world, and I love the way he plays.

Is there someone after whom you try to model your game?

Although I have my own style of play, I really like Messi’s style of play within the team.

What is your go-to pre-game meal?

Usually, I eat pasta with some sort of meat before a game.

What is your go-to pre-game hype song?

My favorite pre-game song is “Hay Lupita” by Lomiiel.

What is your favorite nonsports hobby?

I enjoy playing video games.

What is your favorite subject in school?

My favorite subject is Spanish, because it’s my native language, and it’s much easier for me.

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

I would bring food, water and a soccer ball.

What is your favorite movie?

My favorite movie is “Goal: The Dream Begins,” because it’s the story of a guy who came out of poverty and through his talent and hard work became a professional soccer player.

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

I would have dinner with my grandmother on my dad’s side. She passed away five years ago, and before that, I didn’t see her for eight years.

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

I don’t think I would want to go back in time.

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

I would tell my younger self to make good decisions and work harder so he could meet his goals.

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

I would ask my future self if I become a professional soccer player.

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

I would like to have the power to fly, because that way I could get places faster and travel the world.

If you could travel to three places in the world, where would you go?

I would travel to Switzerland, Italy and Brazil. I have always wanted to visit those countries.

If you could be an animal for a day, which one would you be?

I would be a lion, so I could be the king of the jungle.

What is your most controversial food take?

The most controversial food I like is iguana.

— SAM ALBUQUERQUE

Byrd leads TFA basketball squad to statement start

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1B

at the Windermere Prep game. He went two for three from three in a crucial moment of the game, as a freshman, in his second-ever high school game while being matched up against a four-star player on a state finalist team. To have the mentality to take and make shots, when he’s just really started learning how to shoot properly — that says a lot about how much confidence he has and how much better he can get.”

That crucial moment was a twominute, 31-second run of game time that served as the turning point for the Royals. With fewer than six minutes left to play in the fourth, Windermere Prep led TFA, 50-41. It was the Royals’ ball.

Senior guard Max Simmons drove toward the middle, stopping at the free throw line. As the Lakers defense collapsed, he found Byrd on the wing for an open three. 50-44 with 5:28 on the clock.

Following a Windermere Prep miss on the next possession, Byrd grabbed the defensive rebound, took the rock from coast-to-coast and hit a spinning fadeaway middy to cut the Lakers’ lead to 50-46 with 5:03 on the clock.

Byrd grabbed another defensive board on the following Lakers possession, and after passing the ball off to his teammate, the trailing freshman reunited with the ball and hit a deep three-pointer to make it a one-point game with 4:26 left in regulation.

After a few scoreless possessions on both sides, Byrd received a fast break-inducing outlet pass that ended in a smooth eurostep finish at the cup for his 10th consecutive and unanswered point, which gave TFA its first lead of the game, 51-50, at the 2:57 mark.

Byrd finished with 24 points and 13 rebounds, leading the Royals to a 64-60 overtime win over the Lakers, TFA’s first since December 2020.

“James 4:10 says, ‘Humble yourself, and God will lift you up,’” Mabon said following the win. “One thing our program stands on is humility over ego. Every single human on our team (who) stepped in there tonight impacted winning. Whether it was

(diving on the floor for a loose ball), an assist or just flat-out energy. Everybody won that game. The TFA community ... won that game. We all know how important it is when we compete against Windermere Prep. I know I’m new here, but I’m no idiot, right? I understand that (rivalry), so to God be the glory for honoring those young men who’ve … been working so hard. They’re so unselfish, they’re so loving. They deserved this win.”

Beyond getting their second win of the early season, Royals Nation has much more to celebrate after the breakout performance from its star freshman. However, Byrd’s not getting ahead of himself. Instead, he’s focused on remaining humble and sending the glory where it belongs.

“It feels great to get this win,” Byrd said. “But I really just need to give God all the glory and praise for everything He’s allowed me to do. He’s the reason we’ve been able to go out there and make a statement, so I just give Him every single bit of praise I can.”

GOALS

LONG-TERM

Regardless of how big this win was for the Royals, their ultimate goal, this season and beyond, is bigger than one game in December.

“Our first goal is to win districts,” Byrd said. “For us to accomplish

that, we have to make sure we’re working hard, staying humble and putting God first and foremost. If we do that and go as hard as we can every time we step on the basketball court, always leaving it all on the floor, we’ll get there.”

From Mabon’s perspective achieving this season’s goals work in concert with his long-term vision for the program.

“I’ve been a basketball guy my entire life, but I would say, over the last three to four years, when I was in Georgia, I studied all the best teams in the country,” Mabon said. “I remember going to a tournament in Virginia two years ago and watching those DMV teams play. What I learned was that it’s all about who plays the hardest. After you get to a point where your team plays harder than the next team, that’s when skillset and basketball I.Q. come into play. When you put those three things together, you’ll always give yourself a fighting chance to compete in every game.

“My goal is to help our kids learn how to play harder — and enjoy playing harder,” he said. “(I want them to) continue to improve their skills ... and then continue to grow their basketball I.Q. — knowing when to make the right play. I think we’ll play an exciting brand of basketball for years to come.”

Will Frost heat up Knights?

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1B

when Mohajir spoke before, was consistent references to his first tenure here. As a member of UCF’s 2016 graduating class, I, too, cherish the memories of Frost’s terrific two-year turnaround that saw UCF go from winless in 2015 to undefeated in 2017. I, as much as any other crazed Knights fan, would love to see Frost take this program back to where it was then.

My hesitation, however, is simple: In that era — from 2016-17 under Frost to 2018-19 under Josh Heupel — UCF catapulted itself into the college football mainstream by pushing the envelope, making bold choices and being disrupters. You know, like when former AD Danny White looked dead into a camera after UCF won the 2017 Peach Bowl and declared the most powerful three words in program history, “National champs, undefeated.”

To this day, White, even as Tennessee’s AD, continues to double down on the 2017 national title claim, going as far as paying out bonuses to the coaching staff.

UCF didn’t become the youngest athletics program at 60 years old to join the Power 5 by looking back. This program didn’t reach the lofty heights the Citronauts and Golden Knights who came before us could

only dream of by succumbing to a nostalgic longing for its past.

Although this hire is well-intentioned and serves as a much-needed shot in the arm during a down period in the program’s history, ultimately, it — and the conversation surrounding it — is rooted in the past. That argument is cemented when you consider how much the landscape of college football has completely flipped on its head since Frost last led a college football team to a winning record in 2017. Frost was fired as Nebraska’s coach in September 2022 and the NCAA officially began allowing Name, Image and Likeness deals in July 2021. This means — disregarding NIL’s evolution in recent years — Frost has a little more than a year of experience not just running a program during the NIL era but being on a college staff period during the existence of NIL, one of the most impactful roster-building tools a program has at its disposal.

The other glaring difference between UCF’s reality in 2025 and the first Frost era is that the Knights are in the Big 12 now, and that means they need to recruit like it. Despite Central Florida being a hotbed for high school football talent, UCF has failed to put together a top-35 recruiting class in either of its two seasons in its new conference. For the past five seasons,

the Knights have, on average, put together the 55th-ranked recruiting class in college football, according to 247Sports.

During his four full seasons as Nebraska’s coach (2018-21), Frost managed to put together four top25 recruiting classes in the country and four top-five classes in the Big Ten, but the success didn’t translate to wins. The Cornhuskers had a combined record of 15-29 during those seasons.

So when you consider the increased competition, UCF’s lack of recruiting pedigree and Frost’s four-year track record of failing to win more than an average of 3.75 games per season, the idea this hire was made looking at the most recent data points and deductive reasoning instead of nostalgia is a bit laughable.

Look: I just want my alma mater to get back to winning football games. I want to be wrong. I want Frost to succeed even more in his second tenure at UCF than he did during Round 1. I’m just scared we’re clinging onto the memory of what the Frost era was and forgetting how we got there in the first place. Regardless of whether my fear proves to be fact, I’ll be watching and cheering on Frost and his players every Saturday next fall. Go Knights, charge on!

David Jester

With nearly four full seasons of high school basketball left, there’s no telling how good the Royals freshman can become.

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Windermere Preparatory School hosts 2024 Global Games

Windermere Preparatory School welcomed more than 1,000 students — seventh- and eighth-graders — from 20 of its sister schools across parent company Nord Anglia Education’s network in North, Central and South America to its 48-acre campus on the shores of the Butler Chain of Lakes to celebrate the 2024 Global Games, a five-day annual event focusing on sports and global connectedness.

From Dec. 3-7, 12- to 14-yearold students from eight different countries competed in a variety of sports — from basketball to soccer, swimming, tennis, beach volleyball and many more — at Windermere Prep’s athletic facilities as part of an educational strategy aimed at helping students develop a sense of global connectedness while also showcasing their skills in a range of sports and engaging with students from different countries.

“The Global Games isn’t just about athletic achievement,” John McCall, regional managing director for the Americas region of Nord

Anglia Education, said in a prepared statement. “It’s about teamwork, school spirit (and) making new friends. We’re committed to delivering our mission of empowering students to succeed in school and life

LOCAL MOTION

This annual guide provides important information about the West Orange communities of Winter Garden, Oakland, Ocoee, Dr. Phillips, Windermere, Gotha and Horizon West including the history, area maps, hospitals, utility companies and local leaders.

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

Round-up of local activities and ways to get

Suggestions for date nights and family weekend excursions for every budget

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

A group of students marched down the Windermere Prep campus in preparation for the 2024 Global Games.

Ben Sinoff weaved through defenders during the flag football competition.

Members of the pink team celebrated during their flag football contest.

Right: Harlow Winstead, left, and Hope Katen celebrated a touchdown during a game of flag football.

Courtesy of Windermere Preparatory School

Lauren Spurlock dribbled through the defense during her team’s soccer match.

INFLUENCER

CONNIE FEENEY

WHISPERING OAK ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Connsuela “Connie” Feeney is the registrar at Whispering Oak Elementary School. In her role, she enrolls and withdraws students, as well as manages the school records. She was nominated as the school’s Support Person of the Year in 202324.

“Connie was chosen because of her fantastic outlook,” Principal Kip Montgomery said. “By title, she is our registrar who handles registering students. She knows each student by name, handles their needs in the office, works with parents and volunteers, and assists teachers. She is the ultimate in customer service and is the ‘face’ of our front office.

“She is warm and caring and handles tasks with care and positivity,” he said. “She respects everyone, listens to them, supports their needs and is always willing to lend a hand to supporting staff.”

What do you like to do in your spare time?

I have two grandchildren I love to spend time with when able. I sew, machine embroidery and crochet when possible. I also love going to Walt Disney World.

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

At

What brought you to your school?

I previously was at another OCPS school, but my position was bumped due to budget cuts. I, thankfully, was hired at Whispering Oak Elementary, and honestly, I can’t imagine being anywhere else.

What do you love most about your school?

Oh, my goodness, there’s so much. I love the “family” atmosphere with my co-workers. I love the relationships I have made with the students, and I love that we have so many friendly parents that volunteer so much of their time to help throughout the year.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

When enrolling students of new families to our school, I make them feel welcome and confident their child/children are in a friendly, caring, learning environment. I also love the “Good morning” and “Have a great day” from students as I welcome them into school each day.

What would you be if you weren’t in this profession? I can’t imagine doing anything else. I would probably enjoy teaching others to sew and crochet.

Who influences you?

My co-workers influence me daily to constantly learn more and always help wherever I’m able. We are family, not just co-workers; we help whenever/wherever needed.

Who was your favorite teacher when you were in school? Why?

Ms. Dozier my home economics teacher. She was encouraging.

What is your favorite children’s book and why?

I’ve always enjoyed reading — starting as a young child. “Charlotte’s Web” was a favorite — the cover caught my attention, the baby Wilbur in Fern’s lap was so cute; yes, I was judging a book by its cover. The relationship/friendship formed between Wilbur and Charlotte is special. “Charlotte’s Web” proves how important it is to have true friendships.

REPORT CARD

POSITION: Registrar TIME AT SCHOOL: Three years

My grandmother isn’t “famous,” but I would love to have one more meal with her, especially if she did the cooking. She was a great cook and baker. More important, she taught me to sew, hand embroider, needlepoint and crochet. To be able to tell her and show her the love I have for these arts and show her how accomplished I am and how much I continue to learn would be a dream come true.

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

To be able to see into the future to see my grandchildren as adults.

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

I really do enjoy different genres of music, but if I had to choose just three, I would listen to Elton John, Billy Joel and The Beatles.

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

My favorite lunch was fluffernutters. My mom made them for me as a child, and I still enjoy them as an adult.  My favorite snack was and still is gummy bears and Good & Plenty.

What is your favorite holiday and why?

I believe in the reason for the season of Christmas and the excitement it brings to children, but when my children were young, I enjoyed Halloween. I made a lot of their costumes, which brought me pride and joy as they were so excited to wear them.

Who was your best friend when you were in school and why? Are you still in touch?

I grew up in the Army, so I moved around a lot. Kiki and I have been friends since young childhood. We wrote letters for a while then lost touch then reconnected thanks to Facebook.

What were your extracurricular activities as a student? Did you win any accolades or honors? I learned to play the flute in fifth grade and was in the school band till I graduated. I loved being in concert band and marching band. I was the drum major in marching band in ninth grade. More importantly is the friendship and camaraderie I enjoyed being in the band.

— AMY QUESINBERRY

Family Church students enjoy Outsiders 2024

Larissa Portugal sang during one of the camp’s worship services.

Family Church Brazilian community lead pastor Lecio Dornas, left, and his wife, Polliana, visited the church’s students during Outsider 2024.

Daniel Barbosa, left, and Larissa Portugal were all smiles while sitting on a bench at the beautiful Camp Gilead campus.

Right: Nick Araujo participated in the “Guess the Sauce” game, while Cybelly Silva covered his eyes to ensure the integrity of the competition.

Members of the red team celebrated their victory during the camp’s annual games competition.

Isaias

Let your heart be light

The city of Winter Garden celebrated the beginning of the holiday season with not one, not two, but three events last week.

Light Up Winter Garden kicked off the holiday season in Winter Garden Friday, Dec. 6, with its annual program that includes the telling of the story of Jesus’ birth, liturgical music selections and the beloved candle-lighting and treelighting ceremony. After the ceremony, musical groups entertained the crowds, children and adults had a blast zipping down the ice slides, little ones visited with Santa Claus, vendors sold their holiday goodies and items, and folks stopped at the various photo opportunities for selfies and group pictures.

The next morning, holiday joy filled the streets with the annual Winter Garden Christmas Parade. The parade featured dozens of floats, performers, elected officials and more as it marched down Dillard and Plant streets. The chilly weather also added to the occasion as attendees enjoyed bundling up in coats in true wintry fashion.

After the sun set, golf carts illuminated the evening as the 2024 Winter Garden Christmas Golf Cart Parade rolled along West Bay Street and Plant Street. Participants were dressed like the Grinch; gnomes; characters from movies such as “The Nightmare Before Christmas,” “Deadpool” and “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation”; “The Golden Girls”; musical elves; and more. Carts were decorated to look like a gingerbread house, a Radio Flyer wagon full of toys, a mug of hot cocoa, the Polar Express and other seasonal themes. The annual parade has become a crowd favorite along the downtown corridor. The event also collects toys for the Police Athletic League’s Holiday Gifts for Kids program.

— AMY QUESINBERRY

Marissa Romeu | TK Photography

As always, the West Orange High School marching band was a Christmas parade favorite.

Winter Garden Mayor John Rees always enjoys speaking to residents during the annual Light Up Winter Garden event.

Thomas Lightbody | TK Photography

The Winter Garden Christmas Parade featured a variety of floats, performance troupes and organizations.

Jazmine Lytle, left, Kailani Moreta and Autumn Moreta were eager to tell Santa Claus their Christmas wishes at Light Up Winter Garden.

Sydney Reed Davey, left, and her parents, Steven and Suzon Davey, gave their golf cart a sweet citrus theme.

Marissa Romeu | TK Photography Winter Garden residents enjoyed taking in all the sights of the 2024 Christmas parade.

Thomas Lightbody | TK Photography Foundation Academy President Dave Buckles had a blast in this year’s Christmas parade.

The Olszewski-McManamey family represented “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” with its portrayal of Willy Wonka, Veruca Salt, Violet Beauregarde, Charlie Bucket and an assortment of Oompa Loompas.

Representing the “Elves Rock” golf cart were members of the Donovan family.

Thomas Lightbody | TK Photography Parade participants loved seeing all the smiling faces along the parade route.

Three-year-old Nicolas De Angulo was careful with his lighted candle at Light Up Winter Garden.

Thomas Lightbody | TK Photography

The Ocoee High School marching band delighted parade-goers with its energetic performance.

Thomas Lightbody | TK Photography

The Winter Garden Fire Department was among the dozens of Christmas parade participants this year.

Thomas Lightbody | TK Photography

James and Denise Alexander and Mary and Sara O’Connor celebrated with a pink Christmas theme at the Golf Cart Parade.

Left: Orange County District 1 Commissioner Nicole Wilson enjoyed her time in the Winter Garden Christmas Parade.

Thomas Lightbody | TK Photography

The 2024 Winter Garden Christmas Parade even featured some cuddly, furry friends.

Casey and John Scandura appeared in their sleigh as elves Jovie and Buddy at the Golf Cart Parade.

THE WAYS WE WERE FROM THE WINTER GARDEN HERITAGE FOUNDATION

80 years ago

The interior of the Winter Garden Café was beautifully redecorated in pastel colors. This is where the Rotary Club held its regular Tuesday luncheon meetings.

Charles H. Jackson, of Monroe, Georgia, was appointed as a fullfledged police officer on the local force. Chief Pearl M. Johns said he came highly recommended and was a fearless officer.

The Ocoee High School boys organized an “O” Club in the school under the sponsorship and guidance of Coach Wendell Griffith with the following officers: Don Vandergrift, president; Frankie Watson, vice president; and Keith Stone, secretary and treasurer.

The marriage of Miss Grace Mary Kannon, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Burke Kannon, to Sgt. Boyce Cooper, son of Mr. and Mrs. W.T. Cooper of Gainesville, Georgia, took place at the Baptist church.

70 years ago

Turner’s Oyster Bar on new Highway 50 just east of Ninth Street advertised half large fresh Florida lobster, salad, French fries and hot rolls for $1.10.

R.A. Kerr, phone 314, electric and plumbing, announced the opening of his new location on Highway 50 next to Bob Kerr’s Boats and Motors.

Plant Street was jammed with spectators when Winter Garden’s annual Christmas parade made its appearance at 4 p.m. sharp.

Pvt. Billy Spears left for Europe on a military assignment.

60 years ago

Jimmy Spears, a senior at Lakeview High School, was featured in the eighth annual edition of Who’s Who Among American High School Students, 1973-74. Jimmy was the

FROM THE ARCHIVES

Shared by the Ogletree family, the photograph shows a group selling Christmas seals outside Davis Pharmacy on Plant Street in Winter Garden. The setting appears to have been photographed by professional photographer B.P. Hannon around 1960. The people have not been identified, and so we ask our readers to supply any names. We presume some of the folks shown are members of the Ogletree family. The Winter Garden Heritage Foundation preserves a large collection of Hannon’s photographs, an indelible testament to small-town life from the late

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.

son of Mr. and Mrs. Raymond G. Spears, of Winter Garden.

50 years ago

The Winter Garden Dairy Queen on Highway 50 near the KOA Campgrounds was open for business under new management. Jim Fesperman, the new manager, announced many changes: the use of all-beef hamburger, more employees to provide better service and an even cleaner atmosphere than before.

40 years ago

Steve Stanford was chosen to take charge of the First Federal of Osceola Savings and Loan Association office on South Dillard Street in Winter Garden.

35 years ago

The Dr. Phillips YMCA broke ground on its new building, which is expected to be ready in time for the busy summer season. The expansion included an 8,000-square-foot gymnasium, a

1,200-square-foot Nautilus room, a new entrance on the west side, new lobby area and offices. It also called for additional storage and 60 more parking spaces. The gym plans included basketball and volleyball leagues, indoor soccer, teen dances, exercise classes and other activities.

Each letter in the cipher stands for another. “WAVK, SMOVO SO FVO SVATH, PFNO ZR SLWWLTH IA GMFTHO; SMOVO SO FVO VLHMI, PFNO ZR OFRE IA WLXO SLIM.” IX MARI DOIOV PFVRMFWW

“VH ZFBLRS BFXJLB VR BLFB BLR ETNH OFH HEX AFT VFCR JEEM FB FTHBLGTJ GI BE DSFABGAR, FTM BLRT DSFABGAR IEVR VESR.” DRBR SEIR

“TRN TZ AH SWUUNPJ XTRJMWSDJWTRP JT JBN ADPWX SDPWRNPP WP RTJ PWRUWRU.” UDWJIMWPJ YDIRN NYYH © 2024 NEA, Inc.

IT’LL MAKE YOUR HEAD SPIN! by Shaun Phillips, edited by Jeff Chen

By Luis Campos

redpages@orangeobserver.com

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!

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A Very Merry Light Show

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