The Backyard, a new outdoor food-truck restaurant experience, is slated to open next month in Ocoee. STORY ON PAGE 4A.
A NOVEL IDEA
This year, one of the book clubs at the Southwest Branch Library in Dr. Phillips is celebrating 20 years of pageturning history. PAGE 5A.
Town of Oakland commissioner refutes accusations
The cities of Winter Garden and Ocoee celebrated the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Monday, Jan. 20. PAGE 3A.
image
Josh and Andrea Halperin are eager to invite guests into The Backyard, a dining concept that gives the feeling of casually hanging out in the yard of your friend’s house.
Quesinberry Price
IN OTHER NEWS
n Mayor Jim O’Brien read a proclamation declaring Friday, Jan. 17, Arbor Day in Windermere. Windermere has celebrated more than 27 years as Tree City U.S.A.
n The Town Council approved a consulting and retainer proposal for JPF Development Solutions for general miscellaneous engineering and construction services and consulting; conferences and/or meetings related to engineering and storm water projects; consulting and engineering design coordination with third party engineers of records; and coordination and construction services with client’s Public Works Department to assist with in-house projects. The town of Windermere will pay a monthly retainer of $6,050 based on 55 hours of work per month at a rate of $110 per hour.
n The council approved a request for proposal from JEJ & Associates for state lobbying services based on competitive pricing, extensive team experience and a boutique-service approach. The cost of services is $33,600 annually.
Town of Windermere approves increase of tree mitigation fee
LIZ RAMOS SENIOR EDITOR
Windermere Town Council on Jan. 14 approved a resolution for an updated tree mitigation fee of $225, an increase over the Tree Board’s recommended $175 fee.
Town Planner Brad Cornelius said the tree mitigation fee had not changed in more than 10 years. In 2014, the fee was approved to be $75 per one-inch diameter breast height.
“This has been an issue for some bit of time in the town of Windermere,” Cornelius said. “It is definitely time to update it and revise it.”
The Tree Board looked at tree mitigation fees in other jurisdictions to help with calculating a recommended fee for Windermere. A calculation of what would be the “maximum defendable” mitigation fee, which was $225 per one-inch diameter breast height of a tree
mended a $175 fee as a reasonable start and the board thought there might be hesitation from council to approve a $225 fee.
But Town Council members said they wanted the maximum fee as the total amount collected from a $225-per-inch fee wouldn’t be much more than a $175-per-inch fee.
The resolution was approved unanimously at Town Council’s meeting Tuesday, Jan. 14. Council member Mandy David was absent.
Cornelius said the money collected through the tree mitigation fee will go toward a tree fund that allows the town to enhance the street canopy and protect trees.
Elliott-Moore said the fee allows town staff to enforce the tree ordinance. She said town staff typically receives phone calls and photographs of the tree company and the address where the tree was removed. Then staff goes to look at the stumps that were left, which gives staff an
me and let me know,” Elliott-Moore said. “This fee is to go back and say, ‘You shouldn’t have done that, and now you owe us money,’ because it’s hard to be everywhere at all times. We have a good mitigation fee we can take back to start replacing the canopy that is lost.”
DRAINING IMPROVEMENTS
The Town Council also approved unanimously an increased cost of $5,528,687 to the West Second Avenue drainage improvements project.
The Florida Division of Emergency Management awarded a grant to the town to provide funding for the drainage improvements, but the project experienced delays due to challenges during the bidding process. The bids received exceeded the original budget allocated, which originally was estimated at $2.5 million in 2019.
“The reason it’s coming back to (council) is because when the bid went out, it came in much high-
through their process in order for them to approve the price increase and also approve the fact only one contractor bid on the work.”
Elliott-Moore said the project has not changed since it initially went through public input and meetings. The only change was the cost.
The design of the project — which includes slightly widening the street, stormwater improvements and potable water upgrades — is 100% complete.
The proposed start date for construction is around Feb. 1.
Although the cost of the project was the only aspect of the project on the council’s agenda for the meeting, residents Jeff Szukalski and Matine Pawlicki said they are experiencing issues on their properties due to the drainage work.
Mayor Jim O’Brien said the drainage improvements are being done in stages, so “until it’s complete, it will not function at its maximum.”
‘Never succumb to the temptation of bitterness’
Both Winter Garden and Ocoee honored the life and legacy of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with inspired celebrations Monday, Jan. 20.
The cold temperature was not going to stop Lisa Cone from attending Winter Garden’s Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. celebration.
She bundled up and lined the street with her nephew, Malachi Porter. Attending the parade and celebration has been a tradition for Cone and Porter. They’ve been to the celebration each year for at least the past 10 years.
Cone said it’s the music and camaraderie that she loves most about the celebration. She said her employer knows she will be requesting Martin Luther King Jr. Day off every year to attend the celebrations.
Winter Garden’s celebrations kicked off with a parade followed by musical performances from award-winning guitarist and vocalist Selwyn Birchwood and later, Sugar Vibe. There also were children’s games and crafts, as well as refreshment vendors.
A few miles away, the City of Ocoee’s 17th annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Unity Parade and Celebration saw residents, government officials and many more pack Clarke Road and the West Oaks Mall food court to honor the Civil Rights leader.
Headlined by an enormous parade down Clarke Road, the annual event featured local officials, school children, the Ocoee High Marching Knights and dance team, local organizations and hundreds more marching in the brisk January morning from Citrus Elementary School to the West Oaks Mall.
Following the parade, attendees headed inside to the mall’s food court for continued celebrations organized by the city, which included a performance by Gospel singer Sherri Gladney and a keynote speech by Robinson Joseph of RLK Team Solutions.
— SAM ALBUQUERQUE AND LIZ RAMOS
Gospel singer Sherri Gladney kicked off the indoor portion of Ocoee’s MLK Day celebrations with her rendition of the national anthem.
The Ocoee High School Marching Knights got the crowd moving on the cold January morning.
Right: West Orange Dream Center concluded Winter Garden’s parade.
People had messages to share during Winter Garden’s parade.
Members of the Ocoee High School JROTC presented the colors during the MLK celebrations.
Lisa Cone and her nephew, Malachi Porter, have made attending the Winter Garden Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration a tradition. They’ve attended each year for at least the past 10 years.
Backyard ready to serve up fun in Ocoee
AMY
COMMUNITY EDITOR
Josh and Andrea Halperin are holding a huge backyard party, and everyone is invited.
That’s the concept behind The Backyard, an outdoor food-truck restaurant experience coming to Ocoee. The exterior of the restaurant looks like a typical house with typical landscaping. When you reach the front door, a sign reads, “Meet us in the backyard.” Upon entering the side fence gate, you’ll be greeted by the experience host at the check-in counter, which resembles a traditional residential kitchen.
WHAT FOOD TRUCKS ARE COMING?
Design
jeng@OrangeObserver.com
Senior
lramos@OrangeObserver.com
Community
/ Amy Quesinberry Price, amyq@OrangeObserver.com
Sports Editor / Sam Albuquerque, sama@OrangeObserver.com
“The story lends itself to that,” Josh Halperin said. “It is someone’s home, our home, and we love hosting people, and the party’s just expanded more and more, and we can’t provide the food ourselves, so we hire a vendor. And now we have six. And we still serve drinks … but we have a diverse selection of food out in the yard to satisfy every taste.”
This might seem like an ordinary food-truck event, where diners pay at each location. But here, guests open a tab to purchase all meals, desserts and drinks. Each truck will serve its own cuisine and dessert options, and all drinks will be provided at a 24-tap self-serve station featuring beer and wine and maybe a cider and sangria, the Halperins said. Non-alcoholic drinks, such as sodas, teas and ice coffees will be offered, as well.
A 1,000-square-foot covered patio will be full of tables and chairs, and seating also will be available in the yard around a fire pit and at various umbrella tables. There will be entertainment in the form of lawn games, live music, trivia nights, movie nights and more.
‘FOOD IS AT THE CENTER OF EVERYTHING’
The Halperins admit they are foodies.
“It’s all about experience for me,” Josh Halperin said. “I initially became a foodie in New York City living there in my 20s. … Going to eat and exploring interesting food was one thing, but the experience of spending the time somewhere with people you care about, that’s always what resonated with me.”
“For me, (food) is such a huge part of life,” Andrea Halperin said. “Everything about this is an experience. … We don’t like chain restaurants. We want someone who has a story, who has passion for this, in a unique spot. And I want it to be good and interesting; it doesn’t have to be fancy.”
“Food is at the center of everything,” Josh Halperin added.
The owners were adamant about not offering food from chain restaurants.
“It all goes back to experience,” Josh Halperin said. “We’re giving our people a gathering place where they can spend time with their friends and family with food as part of the experience.
… With food trucks, we want to give people who love food trucks and who love food from food trucks the experience of a restaurant. And we want to give the food trucks the experience of a restaurant.”
“We hope to be the Plant Street Market of Ocoee; it’s ... a (Winter Garden) institution,” Andrea Halperin said. “We hope to be that mark on the place, where the community can feel, ‘Hey, that’s our spot.’”
THE BACKYARD
2214 West Road,
TAITO SUSHI
Owned by Lucia Molinary and Jonattan Salazar, Taito Sushi will offer sushi with a Caribbean twist. The menu includes signature rolls, tempura and sushi boats. They started operating their first food truck in May and are excited to open their second food truck at The Backyard because of its cool and vibrant concept.
TBG BBQ
(TWO BLACK GUYS AND A WHOLE LOTTA MEAT)
A new truck owned by Cameron Ryals and Drexter Ards, two culinarians who became brothers through their love for food. They take the flavors of their childhood and incorporate modern techniques in their barbecue, offering smoked and marinated meats, flavors from all over the world and even vegetarian and vegan options. “BBQ and backyards go hand-in-hand together,” they said. “It brings us back to our childhood of cookouts with family in the backyard and coming together to laugh and enjoy life.”
Owned by Adam Lopez, who has more than 20 years of restaurant and hospitality experience. The five-month-old food truck will offer a modern take on classic Neapolitan pizza combined with several different American styles “rolled into one delicious pie” using long-fermented dough, top California tomatoes and his favorite Western New York mozzarella. He likes to push the limits of people’s palate, especially on “what they think should and shouldn’t go on a pizza.” Lopez’s food truck has been a regular at Toll Road Brewing Company in Ocoee.
Owned by Paulo Pinto and Fabricio Fioravanti, Smash Dunk will feature burgers made from their signature house-blend meat ground in-house, bacon-wrapped hot dogs, scratch-made sauces and handcrafted milkshakes. This will be the second location for the food truck, which debuted last May. The owners are eager to create a “fun, community-driven atmosphere where people can enjoy delicious food in a vibrant setting.”
CLUCKERZ CHICKEN
Owned by Chris Manzano, Kim McCormick and Samantha Orand, Cluckerz Chicken will offer both hand-breaded and grilled chicken tenders, wraps, sandwiches, wings, and salads. Executive chef is Sarah Pickett. They make their seasoned flour from scratch, as well as their signature sauces, Cluck Sauce and House Made Ranch. In their 18 months of operation, they have received accolades in a fried-chicken showdown and from a local chicken restaurateur. Manzano was a founding partner of the Ocoee Community Market and said he always has had great support in Ocoee.
A LO CUBANO
Owned by classically trained chefs Yojan Gonzalez and Lisa Plasencia, A Lo Cubano will offer elevated Cuban street food (authentic Cuban cuisine with a modern twist) with a mix of other Latin cultures. They have operated their food truck for almost eight years and love the idea that everyone will feel as if they are hanging out in the backyard, “just drinking, laughing and having a good time with friends and family.”
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WEST ORANGE TIMES
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SMASH DUNK
PIZZA CULTURE
QUESINBERRY PRICE
A LONG STORY: Southwest Library book club celebrates two decades
AMY QUESINBERRY PRICE COMMUNITY
EDITOR
When Rollins College held its annual Winter with the Writers program, Southwest Branch Librarian Sandy Mayer planned a Rollins Reads month with her book club and took members to Winter Park to meet the authors.
In 2013, Mayer learned one of the authors coming to speak was a writer named Gilbert King, who had penned a book about four black boys who in 1949 were falsely accused of raping a 17-year-old white farm girl in Groveland and were convicted by an all-white jury. Thirteen book club members caravanned to Winter Park to meet King — and after the session ended, he stayed to chat with Mayer and a few of the club members.
“He wanted to keep talking; he was interested in my friend who lived in Groveland,” Mayer said. “He missed his last shuttlebus to his hotel. So, I said, ‘Come on,’ and we gave him a ride to his hotel. Two or three days afterward, the guy wins the Pulitzer Prize for General Nonfiction … for ‘Devil in the Grove.’”
Yes, it was that Gilbert King, famous for and recognized for writing “Devil in the Grove: Thurgood Marshall, the Groveland Boys, and the Dawn of a New America.”
“He was in my car; he was sitting in my seat,” Mayer said with a laugh.
‘I WANT A BOOK CLUB HERE AT SOUTHWEST’
The reason Mayer started a book club at the Southwest branch in 2005 is simple: Her manager asked her to. It’s her love of reading and group discussions and fostering community that has her continuing the club 20 years later.
Make that “clubs.” The branch now offers five — the traditional and longest-running Southwest Book Club, which meets on the fourth Thursday of each month; the Nature Walk Book Club, which meets for a low-impact walk and chat at either Nehrling Gardens, Shadow Bay Park or Bill Frederick Park; the Joy of Reading Book Club, a no-stress club in which there’s no preselected book and members just get together and share what they’re reading; the Virtual Book Club, which was born out of the COVID-19 pandemic and meets the fourth Tuesday; and the Y Read Club, where members take turns reading aloud Saturdays at the Dr. Phillips YMCA.
The original reading club is the longest-running through the Orange County Library System.
WHAT THEY’RE READING
In all, members have read 213 books spanning various genres. Mayer keeps track of all the books and what readers ranked each one from 1 to 5.
“I’ve realized you never can tell what people will like and not like,” she said. “I continue to be surprised. Generally speaking, the adult book clubs that I run here, they like historical fiction. … I try to bring some classics back in.”
Some of the favorites have been anything by Eric Larsen and David Grann, she said. Other great discoveries were Sarah Penner and Irish author Claire Keegan. There were several books that were
unpopular and scored low: “The Monster of Florence,” by Douglas Preston, and “Down and Out in Paradise – the Life of Anthony Bordain,” by Charles Leerhsen.
So how does Mayer choose the books?
“We’ve had a variety of ways,” she said. “For many years, I would reach out for recommendations or suggestions and I would put together a book ballot. Some nonfiction, some fiction. People would vote, and the books that got the most votes were the books that we read. I usually did that twice a year. … Since the pandemic, I’ve been picking them.
“It has to be a highly discussable book; some books are great but not discussable,” Mayer said. “These are library-sponsored book clubs, so we have to make sure people can access them, whether an e-book or downloadable audio book or in print. There has to be enough copies available.”
Mayer said she has eclectic taste when it comes to books, so she keeps in mind not everyone will like what she likes.
She had long enjoyed attending book clubs, making several lifelong friends while a member of the Literary Ladies club at the Winter Garden branch.
She does her research before meetings.
“It’s not just read the book and pull some discussion questions off the internet,” she said. “When you’re reading you want to pull out … good discussion points.” She also shows attendees online author interviews and shares background information on the authors.
“We have so many other book clubs that if that isn’t your cup of tea, there are others to check,” Mayer said. “One may not be to your liking, but try a different one.”
A LOVE OF BOOKS
Mayer’s love affair with books goes back to her childhood, when her grandmother got books at the local country store in rural Minnesota and read to Mayer nightly.
As an adult, Mayer had a career in social work before obtaining her master’s degree in library and information science and accepting a job at the Orange County Library System.
She worked in the downtown Orlando branch before moving to Southwest. She couldn’t imagine working anywhere else, which is why she has stayed for 23 years.
“I’ve had wonderful managers who have allowed me to purpose my goals, passions,” she said. “I’ve never gotten bored at this job. In the beginning, we were basically reference librarians, we didn’t do a lot outside of that.
I’m not the traditional librarian — they have this reputation of being so smart and can win any trivia contest.
I’m more of a social worker librarian, not the English librarian. I’m glad the rules changed to be more outreach.
“The library is a place where people can get a taste of new things … but also it’s about connection,” Mayer said. “What I’ve enjoyed over the years is seeing people get close, make friends and connections. …
I, by nature, am curious and love to learn new things and happened to land into a job where I was encouraged to do that.”
HAPCO swings with 2025 Jazz Fest
It’s not often you have the chance to see Grammy Award-winning artists perform in West Orange.
And it’s even more rare that you can do so for free.
But that’s exactly what will happen when HAPCO Music Foundation and the city of Ocoee present the HAPCO Jazz Fest Ocoee 2025. The outdoor concert will take place from 6 to 10 p.m. Friday, Jan. 31, at the Ocoee Lakeshore Center, 125 N Lakeshore Drive, Ocoee.
The evening will feature the incredible Global Fusion Collective, the Aaron Iannitelli Quartet and a special performance by the Ocoee High School Jazz Band.
General admission is free, but there also is an option to purchase $75 VIP tickets, which includes indoor ballroom seating and access to the HAPCO Wine & Dine.
McMullen said Ocoee Mayor Rusty Johnson has been instrumental in organizing and presenting Jazz Fest Ocoee in the city’s downtown district.
“It’s allowing us to share the love of jazz — for free — to the community,” he said.
The Global Fusion Collective is led by by the multi-Grammy-, 53-time DownBeat Magazineand 24-time Global Music-award winning multi-instrumentalist Dr. José Valentino Ruiz and Emmy Award-nominated artist Brandon L. Robertson. The ensemble also features Grammy- and eight-time Global Genius-award winner Derris Lee and Florida jazz pianist Dr. Zachary Bartholomew.
HAPCO founder Joseph McMullen said the group encapsulates perfectly his organization’s mission to embrace, support and encourage the musicians of tomorrow. Ruiz is a professor at the University of Florida, Bartholomew at Florida Memorial University in Miami. Robertson teaches at Florida Gulf Coast University and Lee at UF.
“These are great musicians and also great educators,” McMullen said. “At our core, (HAPCO) is about education. We’re here to
share the importance of music with the community and train up the next generation,” he said.
In addition to presenting an inspiring evening of music, McMullen said Jazz Fest Ocoee also is an opportunity for HAPCO to offer a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the life and journey of a professional musician.
“When people see great music, they don’t realize how much it takes to get from learning what notes are to being able to perform. It’s edutainment. We’re bringing great, top-notch performances while telling people the story of how musicians got to where they are.”
Concert-goers should take blankets or chairs; no alcoholic beverages permitted at the outdoor concert. Attendees are welcome to bring a picnic dinner; food from Big Mike’s Catering also will be available for purchase.
Proceeds benefit HAPCO’s education programs, which young people use their musical, culinary and artistic talents to fund their college education or to pursue professional careers.
VIP TREATMENT
Although general admission to the concert is free, attendees also have the option to purchase VIP tickets for $75. This option includes indoor ballroom seating and access to the HAPCO Wine & Dine, which features a robust Caribbean-inspired menu by Sage’s Kitchen. Chef Sage creates imaginative fusions of flavors with fresh, delicious ingredients. Wines provided by West Orange Creamery will complement the food menu.
Courtesy
Members of the Southwest Book Club, facilitated by Sandy Mayer, front center, celebrated in 2010 after discussing ‘Baja Florida’ by local author Bill Morris.
Creativity with a purpose
The Orlando College of Osteopathic Medicine’s new podcast dives into the latest trends, challenges and insights in osteopathic medicine.
ANNABELLE SIKES
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
The Orlando College of Osteopathic Medicine in Horizon West has launched its own podcast: The OCOM Podcast.
The podcast dives into the latest trends, challenges and insights in osteopathic medicine, and it features expert interviews, student perspectives and engaging discussions.
The podcast offers a fresh perspective on the future of medicine and is hosted by Dr. Robert Hasty, dean and chief academic officer at OCOM.
Hasty said the podcast was created for a multitude of users, including students, faculty members and those interested in health care. He hopes the show inspires OCOM students, educators and the greater health care community.
“Inspiration for our prospective medical students that may have the desire to want to go to medical school or OCOM and see what we’re doing, inspiration for our team to recognize what they’re doing and that sharing their work can help inspire others across the country, and inspiration for the general medical community,”
Hasty said. “I hope that they’re going to be inspired about the next generation of physicians and what we’re doing to help lead the way.”
CREATIVITY WITH A PURPOSE
OCOM opened its doors for its inaugural class in August.
The podcast’s pilot episode, released in August, discussed communication within medical schools.
The first official episode launched in September and discussed the admissions process, as well as getting into medical school.
The first episode featured three guests: Stacy Ramkissoon-Udit, director of admissions at OCOM; Christa Timinsky, admissions recruiter at OCOM; and Leonardo
“Hopefully, this inspires other people to use this room to create their own ideas. The sky truly is the limit with this.”
— Dr. Robert Hasty
Guerra, a student from the inaugural class at OCOM.
Edwin Gonzalez, OCOM’s AT/AV support specialist, is the mastermind behind the scenes for the podcast.
“When we were thinking about a studio, the first thing someone has to think about is content,” he said. “(Because) we are a school, we have to base our content off of the needs of the students. One of those needs which is the most common, especially after COVID, is virtual learning, such as online videos, presentations and lectures, as well as podcasts. We wanted to create a space that was flexible to do any form of recording. Right now, what we have is set up so well that imagination is really our only limit. So, we’re pretty blessed to have what we have here.”
The medium-sized room at the school has been split into two separate studios: one for the podcast (Studio B) and one for lectures and presentations (Studio A).
Studio A features a green screen that can be utilized for anything from a five-minute recording to a one-hour presentation.
The creation of the podcast on the
OCOM PODCAST
n Visit the OCOM website: ocom.org n Listen to the OCOM Podcast on Spotify or Apple Podcasts, or watch the podcast on YouTube at youtube.com/@OCOM-Orlando.
Studio B side is more complex. It features three Blackmagic 6K cameras that shoot at different angles and can record at the highest resolution possible.
Podcast guests use Shure microphones with individual headsets.
The brain of the operation is a Rodecaster Pro podcast production system.
All video is fed into a Blackmagic switcher, and everything then flows into the school’s Wirecast system.
The podcast can support up to six people at one time.
OCOM even used an AI company to create an introduction jingle for the podcast.
“It’s very cool that Dr. Hasty trusted me with this,” Gonzalez said. “He gave me a vision, and he basically said let’s run with it. That’s one of the things that I really appreciate about OCOM. Whenever the opportunity is available, we go all-in or not at all.
We’re pioneers in the field of medi-
cine, so it’s really amazing that we’re able to take these leaps and make it work. It’s creativity with a purpose.”
‘THE SKY’S THE LIMIT’
Because the medical school environment is such a big market, Hasty said he wanted to create a podcast he would be interested in listening to about modern medical education.
“Hopefully, this inspires other people to use this room to create their own ideas,” he said. “The sky truly is the limit with this.”
One of the main topics of discussion on the podcast in the near future will be mental health.
“The demands for mental health in medical education now are much more than say a few years ago,” Hasty said. “Physicians have the highest rate of suicide of any profession in America. It’s three times the national average. More than 50% of the average physicians in America are burnt out. It’s stressful being a physician, but what we’re trying to do is train the future physician. One that is happy and resilient. Young people are entering into this field with all the right reasons. They really want to give back, pay it forward and take care of people. This next generation is so insanely smart. They could probably go into the business world and do much better than they can in medicine, but they really love it and have an intense desire to serve.”
Other upcoming topics of discussion will include sharing student and faculty stories, simulation, financial aid, curriculum, clinical rotations, security, technology, and transparency and data.
“Everything that we do is for the betterment of our future doctors, which in turn is for the betterment of our future patients,” Gonzalez said. “Everything from a room dedicated to communicating to the students, to how we deliver information, to the content is all based on the authenticity, the humanity and the intimacy that we have with our own faculty, staff and students. It’s really amazing to see how the school keeps everybody together. We’re all one, and all of our voices are equal and important.”
The podcast’s episode lengths will vary; however, OCOM will try to hit the sweet spot — 30 to 45 minutes. The team plans to release about one episode per month but is prepared to release more often if there is a high demand.
Those who wish to listen to the podcast can tune in on Spotify or Apple Podcasts, and those who wish to watch the podcast can do so on YouTube.
“The quality of our lives is dependent on the quality of our relationships,” Hasty said. “I also think the quality of an organization is dependent on the quality of relationships the organization has. Probably the most important part of this is the team. So technically, my ultimate customer is the medical students, but really my team is equally as important. I know if I can support them and take care of them that they’re going to take excellent care of our medical students. We all have tough days and days where the storm comes, but knowing we can be there to support each other really is something special. That’s the soul of OCOM, and I really hope that comes across in our podcast.”
DETAILS: The event will
brate the town’s history, nature, wellness and the arts. It will feature live music, food trucks, a silent auction, fine arts and crafts, vendors, children’s activities and more.
WESTLY’S 8TH
ANNUAL 5K
Get your day started early with Westly’s eighth annual 5K, kicking off at 9:30 a.m. The race is free and open to individuals, families and leashed dogs. Participants receive a free race T-shirt and medal while supplies last.
Check-in begins at 8 a.m., with warmups at 9:15. To preregister for the 5K in-person and virtual options, visit bit.ly/4jqFdT2. The race is hosted by Healthy West Orange, the town of Oakland and the
of Oakland.
The event will include a 5K, silent auction, vendors and a concert by the Petty Hearts.
AMY
QUESINBERRY PRICE COMMUNITY EDITOR
If you love local history — or if you’re a fan of Tom Petty music — you won’t want to miss Oakland Heritage Day this weekend.
The town of Oakland is holding this 25th annual event to celebrate smalltown charm, unique history, nature, wellness and the arts with a familyfriendly day of live music, food trucks (with burgers, barbecue, sweet treats, beer and wine), a silent auction, fine arts and crafts, vendors, interactive children’s activities and more. It takes place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 25, at Speer Park, 331 N. Tubb St., near historic downtown Oakland. Live music will be provided by the Petty Hearts, a national band that pays tribute to the rock band Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers. The Petty Hearts perform renditions of Tom Petty and the Heart-
breakers’ tunes, including dozens of his best known top-40 hits along with some deeper album cuts Petty rarely played live. The tribute band has headlined at venues affiliated with Live Nation, iHeart Radio, the Hard Rock Café, House of Blues, NASCAR and more.
Oakland Nature Preserve will be set up in the “Historic Florida” section of the festival with staff, volunteers and a host of ambassador animals. Proceeds from the silent auction will benefit ONP as well. Gatorland will bring a presentation featuring alligators, snakes and
reptile encounters.
dors curated by Orange Blossom Mar-
Annabelle Sikes
OCOM Media Engineer/IT Specialist Edwin Gonzalez, left, and Dean and Chief Academic Officer Dr. Robert Hasty work together to produce the podcast.
Courtesy photo
The Petty Hearts will perform classic Tom Petty songs at this year’s Oakland Heritage Day.
NEWS BRIEFS
AMESTY ACCUSED OF STEALING MONEY THROUGH COVID RELIEF FRAUD
One month after Florida State Attorney Andrew Bain cleared former District 45 Florida state Rep. Carolina Amesty of felony forgery charges, the Windermere politician is battling new allegations.
U.S. Attorney Roger B. Handberg on Friday, Jan. 17, announced he has filed a criminal complaint charging Amesty with two counts of theft of government property related to COVID relief fraud. Each count carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison. A criminal complaint is merely an allegation that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless — and until — proven guilty, Handberg said.
The complaint, filed Thursday, Jan. 16, alleges Amesty and a relative in 2020 filed 15 applications for various organizations through the Economic Injury Disaster Loan program.
The complaint states Amesty misrepresented information on two applications — for the Carolina Amesty Foundation Inc. and Dinocar Auto Sales LLC. The complaint accuses Amesty of stealing $84,500 through the foundation and $37,500 through Dinocar.
This case is being investigated by the U.S. Small Business Administration — Office of Inspector General and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States attorneys Megan Testerman and Diane Hu.
In May 2021, the attorney general established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to marshal the resources of the Justice Department in partnership with agencies across government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud.
Amesty was elected to represent District 45 in 2022.
District 45 includes portions of West Orange and Southwest Orange, including Horizon West, Windermere, Lake Buena Vista, Bay Lake and Dr. Phillips. WINDERMERE RESIDENT ANNOUNCES CANDIDACY FOR HOUSE DISTRICT 45
Windermere resident Erin Huntley this week announced her candidacy for Florida House of Representatives District 45.
The seat currently is held by Democrat and former Disney executive Leonard Spencer, who beat former Republican Carolina Amesty in the November 2024 general election.
“For nearly two decades, I have called Central Florida home, raising my three children here alongside my husband, Eric, and working to make our community a better place for all of our neighbors,” Huntley said. “As a proud conservative and a mom, I know the challenges Florida families face, and I am ready to fight for their future in Tallahassee.”
Huntley’s campaign centers on preserving Florida’s freedoms, enhancing education through school choice and literacy programs, and a commitment to public safety and ensuring fiscal responsibility while fostering economic opportunities for District 45’s residents.
In her role as chair of the Orange County Republican Party, Huntley spearheaded efforts that energized grassroots activism, shattered fundraising records and increased voter engagement. Under her leadership, Orange County experienced a ninepoint Republican shift — the county’s best GOP performance in nearly two decades.
Most recently, she was one of 30 people selected to be an elector and cast a ballot on behalf of Florida residents for the 47th president of the United States, Donald Trump.
“I’m running … to be a voice for the families of District 45,” Huntley
said. “I’m not a politician. I spent my career in the private sector and human resources — solving real-world problems and working to make a difference in people’s lives. As a mom of three, I know what is at stake and every decision I make will be rooted in the values that matter the most to the families of Orange and Osceola counties.”
Huntley’s professional background includes roles with Walt Disney Parks, JetBlue Airways and DECA Inc., where she gained expertise in leadership development, education and human resources.
FIVE VIE FOR SEATS ON WINDERMERE COUNCIL
Five candidates are vying for three seats on the Windermere Town Council in March.
Incumbents Tom Stroup, Mandy David and Tony Davit are hoping to be reelected to their seats, while Jessica Lee and Frank Krens have thrown their names into the ring.
A Candidates Night Forum will be held at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 6, at Town Hall, 520 Main St., Windermere. People will have the opportunity to meet the candidates and hear their vision for the town. The West Orange Chamber will be moderating the event. The election will take place Tuesday, March 11.
OLIVER TO FACE HART IN OCOEE ELECTION
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
METHODIST
First United Methodist www.fumcwg.org
125 N. Lakeview Ave., Winter Garden (407) 656-1135
Services: 9 AM Traditional 10:45 AM Contemporary Also viewable on YouTube
CHURCH
ANGLICAN
Current Ocoee District 4 Commissioner George Oliver III and former interim District 4 Commissioner Ages Hart both qualified as candidates for the seat for the March 11 election. If necessary, the run-off election will be conducted April 8.
ANGLICAN COMMUNITY
FELLOWSHIP CHURCH
Rector The Rev. Canon Tim Trombitas
1146 East Plant St, Winter Garden
Along with the election for the District 4 seat, Ocoee voters also will have the chance to vote yes or no on three amendments to the city charter:
SUNDAY SERVICE 10:00 AM Find us at: Theacf.net
BAPTIST
n Section C-9 of the City of Ocoee’s Charter shall be amended to provide that the City Commission has authority to interpret and enforce the City Charter subject to review of such decisions by a court of competent jurisdiction.
BEULAH BAPTIST
Pastor Casey Butner 671 Beulah Rd, Winter Garden 407-656-3342 | BeulahBaptistWG.org
SUNDAY BIBLE STUDY 9:30AM
SUNDAY SERVICE 11:00AM
n Section C-10 of the City of Ocoee’s Charter shall be amended to provide that the City Commission has authority to judge the qualifications and eligibility of candidates for the commission, establish procedural rules for C-10, including ensuring that notice and due process is given to affected persons and provide for review of such decisions by a court of competent jurisdiction.
WEDNESDAY SERVICE 6:00PM
FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH
125 E Plant St., Winter Garden
407-656-2352
SUNDAYS 8:30 am Traditional 9:45 am Bible Study 11:00 am Contemporary
WEDNESDAYS - 6pm - Awana
n Section C-17 of the City of Ocoee’s Charter shall be amended to state that a member of the City Commission who resigns cannot thereafter seek election to any part of the same term of office from which the member resigned.
Pastor Tim Grosshans www.fbcwg.org 2nd Campus: FOUNDATION WORSHIP
SUNDAYS 9:45 am - All Ages
Early voting runs from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. March 3-7 at the Supervisor of Elections office.
Foundation Academy High School 15304 Tilden Rd., Winter Garden www.FoundationWorship.com 407-730-1867
HEALTH CENTRAL HOSPITAL EXPANDS CANCER CARE
Orlando Health — Health Central Hospital is expanding its cancer care to include head and neck and thoracic surgery services in the hospital’s oncology suite.
The cancer program, in partnership with the Orlando Health Cancer Institute, launched last year with colorectal cancer services.
Dr. Eric Wu is a head and neck surgical oncologist based at Health Central Hospital. His expertise includes oral cavity, oropharynx and larynx cancer, thyroid cancer, head and neck skin cancer, and salivary gland tumors.
Dr. Christopher Bariana is a boardcertified thoracic surgeon with the Orlando Health Cancer Institute seeing patients at Health Central Hospital and South Lake Hospital. He has more than a decade of experience providing care to patients needing esophageal and upper gastrointestinal surgery, gastroesophageal reflux disease surgery, and lung and tracheal resections. He also has experience in interventional endoscopy, as well as lung cancer screening and lung cancer programs.
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
OF CHRIST WINDERMERE UNION CHURCH 10710 Park Ridge-Gotha Rd. Windermere, FL 34786 407-876-2112 Worship times: 9:00am Adult Sunday School 10:00am Worship www.windermereunion.org
SATTERFIELD: ‘Oakland has been my residence since 1995’
IN OTHER NEWS
n Atlas Injury to Health won the fourth annual Trees of the Season contest held at the Healthy West Orange Arts & Heritage Center at the Town of Oakland. The best of the 16 trees won a $250 cash prize from the sponsor, Refinement Auto Detailing. The owner of Atlas said he is donating the winnings to the Oakland Nature Preserve, and Refinement donated another $150 to be given to ONP.
n The commission approved the consent agenda, which included a contract for legal services for the town, to be represented by Vose Law Firm, and a municipal interlocal agreement for mutual aid with the Oakland Police Department and 14 other Central Florida agencies.
n Commissioners passed two resolutions. One was to update authorized representatives (adding Town Manager Andy Stewart and Assistant Town Manager Elise Hui) with PNC Bank for the Oakland Avenue Charter School bond so they can conduct business on behalf of the town. The other was to establish an automatic rate increase of 4% annually for residents, to be collected through a monthly fee, so the town can keep up with costs related to solid waste services. The new rate schedule starts at $26.60 per month.
n The commission approved the establishment of a new position in the finance department, that of finance operations specialist, to provide support in managing financial operations in the town.
n Stewart announced the town has once again received Tree City USA designation.
n The town proclaimed Jan. 20 Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Jan. 26 through Feb. 1 School Choice Week and Jan. 27 through 31 Celebrate Literacy Week.
AMY QUESINBERRY PRICE COMMUNITY EDITOR
The Oakland Town Commission spent more than an hour debating the word “emergency” at its Jan. 14 meeting before a vote in which an associated proposed ordinance was not passed.
An emergency ordinance was presented that called for “… declaring a state of emergency affecting public welfare … providing for procedures to apply for insurance coverage for the payment of attorney’s fees and costs related to ethics complaint … (and) providing for provision of legal services by town attorney or designee and reimbursement of reasonable attorney’s fees and costs.”
The proposed ordinance was presented following an ethics complaint filed against Town Commissioner and Vice Mayor Mike Satterfield.
The complaint asserts Satterfield does not live in the town of Oakland and he falsely claims his homestead exemption on his property in the town.
Orange County property records show Satterfield has owned his home on Daniels Street in Oakland since 1995. He has served as a town commissioner since 1998.
Satterfield also owns two homes in Brevard County, both of which he purchased in 2000. He also owns two businesses in Brevard — All Green Lawn Care & More LLC, which closed last year, and Satellite Isles Apartments.
Satterfield issued a prepared statement refuting the complaint (see sidebar). He said, in part: “They are all false statements. First, Oakland has been my residence since 1995. That is when I filed homestead, and registered to vote, and that has not changed to this day. It has always been my home and my heart and has always been my intention that this is where I will end up the rest of my life.”
The Observer contacted the Florida Commission on Ethics, which would neither confirm nor deny that an ethics complaint had been filed against Satterfield and said there currently are no public records relating to this complaint.
To protect itself against potential high attorney costs associated with this complaint, the town created this emergency ordinance.
The ordinance, if passed, would have provided procedures for an accused town elected official or town employee to notify the town, which would, in turn, notify the town’s insurance company. If the accused hired his or her own defense attorney, the ordinance also would have provided for the compensation for “reasonable” attorney fees should
Descuentos en telefonía e Internet
SATTERFIELD’S STATEMENT
My name, as you know, is Mike Satterfield. I have been your town commissioner/vice mayor for 27 years now, with three or so more years on various boards and committees. I have given three decades of service to this town, and it has been my honor. Those of you that know me personally know my passion for this town and that I would never do anything to hurt its reputation. I love our town. It is my home.
There have been and still are several false accusations thrown out there in the past year or so that are completely untrue.
I will clarify them for you now. This will be my only statement on the matter, and I will consider the matter closed.
I have been accused of not living in this town, falsifying documents and literally stealing from the town, and falsely claiming homestead exemption here cheating the town out of even more money. Let me assure you: They are all false statements. First, Oakland has been my residence since 1995. That is when I filed homestead, and registered to vote, and that has not changed to this day. It has always been my home and my heart and has always been my intention that this is where I will end up the rest of my life.
I have never hid the fact that my businesses are in Brevard County or that I have multiple homes there also. That has been true all my life. I have always been very open about that.
The statement that I “only come to town for meetings and photo ops” and that my truck is only seen here on Tuesday nights for meetings is amazingly untrue. I am home every week, regardless of meetings. That is unless I am on vacation and out of state. I also have interests in North Carolina, again of which I have never hid.
I meet with the town manager every week when I am home. I ride the town with Mike Parker and discuss what is happening in town regularly, and I am always at the school, as it is also one of my
the accused get a personal attorney.
A portion of the ordinance read:
“The Supreme Court of Florida has established that public officials are entitled to legal representation at taxpayer expense when defending themselves against litigation arising out of their public duties and serving a public purpose.”
responsibilities, of which I love by the way. All of this can always be confirmed by the town staff. You see there is a lot more to our jobs than simply attending meetings and showing up for photo ops. As for the financial accusations, any reasonable person that looked at all my personal information that has been spread across the social media and such will also come to the conclusion that with all my properties and businesses, I certainly don’t need the money or health insurance provided by the town. As a matter of fact, I have suggested several times over the years that the five of us should really do away with the pay. I serve our town out of sheer passion. And finally, as to my homestead exemption, it doesn’t even enter into the picture of my commission seat. I would homestead here whether I was vice mayor or not. This is my home. Just in case I have not made this fact clear yet, I live in Oakland. Couldn’t be any clearer.
To town residents, I thank you for believing in me all these years. Your support has always been incredible. I promise you I will always do my best for you for as long as I hold this seat. You are the ones who have kept me here for over 25 years, and I can’t even begin to tell you how much I appreciate you.
Lastly, (Mayor) Shane (Taylor), I know you can’t stop folks from speaking their piece, none of us can. However, I am asking you to get involved in talking to people that seem to be spreading info that is tearing this town apart. Help bring us back together as one. You have a lot of influence and your words mean a lot to folks here. Please use that and try to show people that we are in this together. And elections are the time for making changes, is deemed necessary. I would appreciate any help you can give to this effort. That is it, ladies and gentlemen. Again, thank you for the last three decades.
Mayor Shane Taylor had issue with whether the ordinance should be deemed an “emergency.”
Disponibles para clientes de CenturyLink
La Comisión de Servicios Públicos de Florida designó a CenturyLink como Operador de Telecomunicaciones Admisible dentro de su área de servicio para fines de servicio universal. Las tarifas del servicio local básico de CenturyLink para líneas de voz residenciales son de $34.00 al mes y para servicios empresariales son de $53.50 al mes. Las tarifas específicas se proporcionarán previa solicitud.
CenturyLink participa en el programa Lifeline, que hace que el servicio telefónico residencial o de banda ancha calificado sea más asequible para las personas y familias elegibles de bajos ingresos. Los clientes elegibles pueden obtener descuentos Lifeline de $5.25/mes por servicio de voz o servicio de voz combinado o $9.25/mes por banda ancha calificada o paquetes de banda ancha. Los residentes que vivan en Territorios Tribales reconocidos a nivel federal pueden optar por beneficios tribales adicionales si participan en determinados programas federales de elegibilidad suplementarios. El descuento Lifeline sólo está disponible para un servicio telefónico o de banda ancha por hogar, que puede ser fijo o inalámbrico. Las velocidades de banda ancha deben ser de al menos 25 Mbps de descarga y 3 Mbps de carga para poder optar a la ayuda. Un hogar se define como cualquier individuo o grupo de individuos que viven juntos en la misma dirección y comparten ingresos y gastos. Los servicios son intransferibles y sólo los consumidores que reúnan los requisitos pueden inscribirse en estos programas. Los consumidores que deliberadamente hagan declaraciones falsas para obtener estos descuentos pueden ser castigados con multa o prisión y pueden ser excluidos de estos programas. Si vive en un área de servicio de CenturyLink, ingrese a https://www. centurylink.com/aboutus/community/community-development/lifeline.html para obtener información adicional sobre cómo solicitar estos programas o llame al 1-800-201-4099 si tiene preguntas.
“This is strictly business; this is not a personal issue,” he said. “Why does a complaint against a commissioner require an emergency ordinance? My problem with this is we’re setting this up as an emergency ordinance (and) I don’t believe it’s an emergency. …. When I think of emergency, I think of a natural disaster.”
Stephanie Velo, representing town attorney Vose Law Firm, responded:
“Who determines if this is an emergency or not is up to you.”
At issue is the timeframe for which the accused notifies the town, which, in turn, notifies the town’s insurance company.
“The earlier that you loop in the insurance, the better chance they’re going to cover the costs,” Velo said.
“When a commissioner finds out about the claim, he must inform the town immediately. … When insurance companies are late to the party, they tend not to cover it.”
Without this emergency ordinance in place, she said, a commissioner could potentially go out and get his or her own attorney and incur large attorney bills and come back to the town and ask for the bills to be covered.
The commission continued at length the “emergency” debate.
“This is an emergency because it will cost the public money,” Commissioner Sal Ramos said.
“It will cost the public money anyway,” Taylor said.
“I think it’s an emergency to save the citizens money,” Ramos replied.
Velo said she thinks it’s necessary “if the town wants to have any say in how a claim for attorney fees will be handled.”
Commissioner Joseph McMullen said this is the first time in his 27 years in the town an elected official has had an ethics complaint filed.
“My main concern isn’t that I’ve done anything wrong,” Satterfield said. “My concern is for the town of Oakland.”
Taylor wanted to move forward with the ordinance without it being an emergency but wanted it to go through the normal channels with advertising and first and second readings.
“If this is something we need to pursue … the town staff (can) get with the attorneys and start drafting something we can all look at and go through … and adjust as we feel necessary,” Taylor said. “Mike, I think you’re OK. If there haven’t been any issues yet, I think you’re OK.”
FILLING POLLAND’S SEAT
The commission outlined the appointment process for Seat 1, which has been vacated by former Commissioner Rick Polland. Three residents had applied by Tuesday to complete the seat’s term through March 2026; the deadline to apply was Jan. 17.
A workshop will be held before the Jan. 28 Town Commission meeting to interview all the candidates, and then they vote on and swear in the new commissioner at the regular meeting.
CHARTER REVIEW COMMITTEE UPDATE
Oakland received nine applications from residents wanting to serve on the Charter Review Committee, and commissioners received a packet with the list of applicants. At the Jan. 28 meeting, the commissioners each will select one person to serve on the committee.
Phone and Internet Discounts Available to CenturyLink Customers
The Florida Public Service Commission designated CenturyLink as an Eligible Telecommunications Carrier within its service area for universal service purposes. CenturyLink’s basic local service rates for residential voice lines are $34.00 per month and business services are $53.50 per month. Specific rates will be provided upon request.
CenturyLink participates in the Lifeline program, which makes residential telephone or qualifying broadband service more affordable to eligible low-income individuals and families. Eligible customers may qualify for Lifeline discounts of $5.25/month for voice or bundled voice service or $9.25/month for qualifying broadband or broadband bundles. Residents who live on federally recognized Tribal Lands may qualify for additional Tribal benefits if they participate in certain additional federal eligibility programs. The Lifeline discount is available for only one telephone or qualifying broadband service per household, which can be either a wireline or wireless service. Broadband speeds must be at least 25 Mbps download and 3 Mbps upload to qualify.
A household is defined as any individual or group of individuals who live together at the same address and share income and expenses. Services are not transferable, and only eligible consumers may enroll in these programs. Consumers who willfully make false statements to obtain these discounts can be punished by fine or imprisonment and can be barred from these programs.
If you live in a CenturyLink service area, visit https://www.centurylink. com/aboutus/community/community-development/lifeline.html for additional information about applying for these programs or call 1-800201-4099 with questions.
Ahome in the Golden Oak community in Southwest Orange topped all West Orange-area residential real-estate transactions from Jan. 13 to 19.
The home at 9714 Vista Falls Drive, Orlando, sold Jan. 15, for $7,985,000. Built in 2012, it has six bedrooms, eight baths, two half-baths and 6,793 square feet of living area. Days on market: 250. The sellers were represented by Janet Allen, Premier Sotheby’s International Realty.
These are the highestselling homes in each community in West Orange.
DR. PHILLIPS
BAY VISTA ESTATES
The home at 8673 Vista Point Cove, Orlando, sold Jan. 17, for $583,900. Built in 1985, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,197 square feet of living area. Days on market: 128.
LANDSBROOK TERRACE
The home at 4733 Windsor Ave., Orlando, sold Jan. 15, for $460,000. Built in 1999, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 1,928 square feet of living area. Days on market: 15.
PARKSIDE
The home at 8643 Brixford St., Orlando, sold Jan. 16, for $1,150,000. Built in 2013, it has four bedrooms, four-and-onehalf baths and 3,684 square feet of living area. Days on market: 134.
LAKES OF WINDERMERE
The home at 6974 Northwich Drive, Windermere, sold Jan. 13, for $730,000. Built in 2007, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 3,184 square feet of living area. Days on market: 28.
SAND LAKE SOUND
The townhouse at 7369 Alpine Butterfly Lane, Orlando, sold Jan. 14, for $590,000. Built in 2020, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,789 square feet of living area. Days on market: 17.
HORIZON WEST
HAMLIN POINTE
The home at 16998 Hamlin Oasis Loop, Winter Garden, sold Jan. 16, for $539,326. Built in 2024, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,083 square feet of living area. Days on market: 393.
HAWKSMOOR
The townhouse at 16467 Prairie School Drive, Winter Garden, sold Jan. 17, for $425,000. Built in 2022, it has three bedrooms, twoand-one-half baths and 1,626 square feet of living area. Days on market: Six.
INDEPENDENCE/ SIGNATURE LAKES
The home at 5521 New Independence Parkway, Winter Garden, sold Jan. 17, for $560,000. Built in 2012, it has five bedrooms, three baths and 2,240 square feet of living area. Days on market: Four.
LAKESHORE PRESERVE
The home at 15730 Cutter Sail Place, Winter Garden, sold Jan. 17, for $1,180,000. Built in 2020, it has six bedrooms, five baths and 4,074 square feet of living area. Days on market: Eight.
SILVERLEAF RESERVE AT HAMLIN
The home at 16409 Silver Grove Blvd., Winter Garden, sold Jan. 17, for $868,875. Built in 2024, it has five bedrooms, four-and-onehalf baths and 3,871 square feet of living area. Days on market: 11.
The home at 16379 Silver Grove Blvd., Winter Garden, sold Jan. 15, for $816,385. Built in 2025, it has five bedrooms, four-and-onehalf baths and 3,823 square feet of living area.
WATERLEIGH
The home at 10117 Atwater Bay Drive, Winter Garden, sold Jan. 17, for $1,709,990. Built in 2024, it has four bedrooms, threeand-one-half baths and 4,328 square feet of living area. Days on market: 111.
The home at 10207 Atwater Bay Drive, Winter Garden, sold Jan. 13, for $1,440,000. Built in 2020, it has five bedrooms, four-andone-half baths and 3,354 square feet of living area. Days on market: 142.
The home at 16148 Taro Pond Alley, Winter Garden, sold Jan. 17, for $621,990. Built in 2024, it has four bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 2,500 square feet of living area.
The home at 16019 Ridge Haven Alley, Winter Garden, sold Jan. 17, for $616,990. Built in 2024, it has four bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 2,500 square feet of living area.
SOUTHWEST ORANGE
GOLDEN OAK
The home at 9714 Vista Falls Drive, Orlando, sold Jan. 15, for $7,985,000. Built in 2012, it has six bedrooms, eight baths, two half-baths and 6,793 square feet of living area. Days on market: 250.
GRANDVIEW ISLES
The townhouse at 10112 Fallsgrove St., Orlando, sold Jan. 17, for $405,000. Built in 2008, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 1,491 square feet of living area. Days on market: 103.
WEST ORANGE
GLENMUIR
The home at 11085 Ledgement Lane, Windermere, sold Jan. 17, for $950,000. Built in 2003, it has four bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 3,080 square feet of living area. Days on market: 105.
WINDERMERE
BELMERE VILLAGE
The home at 15932 Moonlight Bay St., Winter Garden, sold Jan. 16, for $580,000. Built in 2021, it has four bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 2,472 square feet of living area. Days on market: 62.
WATERMARK
The home at 14773 Crimson Bluff Alley, Winter Garden, sold Jan. 13, for $550,000. Built in 2017, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,082 square feet of living area. Days on market: Three.
The home at 9378 Meadow Hunt Way, Winter Garden, sold Jan. 15, for $523,000. Built in 2016, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 1,920 square feet of living area. Days on market: Four.
WESTHAVEN AT OVATION
The townhouse at 14075 Lochend Way, Winter Garden, sold Jan. 13, for $499,000. Built in 2024, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,337 square feet of living area. Days on market: 143.
OCOEE
ARDEN PARK NORTH
The home at 1510 Orange Valley Ridge, Ocoee, sold Jan. 17, for $495,000. Built in 2019, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,275 square feet of living area. Days on market: 70.
JOHIO BAY
The home at 2443 Johio Bay Drive, Ocoee, sold Jan. 17, for $690,000. Built in 1994, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,821 square feet of living area. Days on market: 106.
REMINGTON OAKS
The home at 1979 Margate Court, Ocoee, sold Jan. 17, for $400,000. Built in 2000, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,009 square feet of living area. Days on market: 56.
SPRING LAKE RESERVE
The home at 1713 Vista Meadows Drive, Ocoee, sold Jan. 13, for $475,000. Built in 2016, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,292 square feet of living area. Days on market: 38.
WESTON PARK
The home at 2351 Blake Way, Ocoee, sold Jan. 15, for $410,000. Built in 1995, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 1,812 square feet of living area. Days on market: Three.
WESTYN BAY
The home at 2470 Orsota Circle, Ocoee, sold Jan. 15, for $530,000. Built in 2005, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 3,399 square feet of living area. Days on market: Five.
WYNWOOD
The home at 2432 Coachwood Drive, Ocoee, sold Jan. 17, for $446,990. Built in 2024, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,672 square feet of living area. Days on market: 41.
The home at 3492 Sandalwood Isle Way, Ocoee, sold Jan. 14, for $408,990. Built in 2024, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,614 square feet of living area. Days on market: 80.
The home at 11761 Bella Milano Court, Windermere, sold Jan. 16, for $649,000. Built in 2006, it has five bedrooms, four-and-onehalf baths and 2,844 square feet of living area. Days on market: 59.
ESTATES AT WINDERMERE
The home at 2224 Ridgewind Way, Windermere, sold Jan. 15, for $1,370,000. Built in 1997, it has five bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 3,566 square feet of living area. Days on market: Three.
TUSCANY RIDGE
The home at 1307 Belfiore Way, Windermere, sold Jan. 15, for $825,000. Built in 2005, it has three bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 3,347 square feet of living area. Days on market: 43.
METCALF PARK
The home at 11018 Lake Butler Blvd., Windermere, sold Jan. 15, for $2,750,000. Built in 2001, it has four bedrooms, three-andone-half baths and 3,923 square feet of living area. Days on market: 58.
WESTOVER CLUB
The home at 9323 Westover Club Circle, Windermere, sold Jan. 15, for $920,000. Built in 2001, it has four bedrooms, four baths and 3,923 square feet of living area. Days on market: 45.
WINTER GARDEN
ALEXANDER RIDGE
The home at 2261 Romanum Drive, Winter Garden, sold Jan. 13, for $550,000. Built in 2014, it has four bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 2,410 square feet of living area. Days on market: 68.
LAKE ROBERTS LANDING
The home at 1800 Lake Roberts Landing Drive, Winter Garden, sold Jan. 17, for $1,050,000. Built in 2009, it has six bedrooms, five baths and 5,107 square feet of living area. Days on market: 72.
OAKLAND PARK
The home at 930 Auction Alley, Winter Garden, sold Jan. 16, for $700,000. Built in 2022, it has four bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 2,425 square feet of living area. Days on market: 75.
ORANGE COVE
The home at 725 Sunburst Cove Lane, Winter Garden, sold Jan. 13, for $495,000. Built in 1999, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,647 square feet of living area. Days on market: 43.
SOUTHERN PINES
The condo at 142 Southern Pecan Circle, No. 202, Winter Garden, sold Jan. 13, for $299,900. Built in 2005, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,276 square feet of living area. Days on market: 14.
WATERSIDE AT JOHNS LAKE
The home at 1441 Roxy Lane, Winter Garden, sold Jan. 13, for $510,000. Built in 2022, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,030 square feet of living area. Days on market: 27.
WINTER GARDEN
The home at 14719 Micah St., Winter Garden, sold Jan. 13, for $180,000. Built in 1962, it has two bedrooms, one bath and 640 square feet of living area. Days on market: Four.
Courtesy
Michael Pelzer | Uneek Luxury Tours
Sotheby’s
SPORTS
HIGH 5
1
Ocoee High football star player Michael McClenton has announced his commitment to play college football at UCF.
McClenton, the Observer’s 2023 Player of the Year and 2024 Defensive Player of the Year, is a 6-foot, 225-pound junior linebacker who has filled up the stat sheet the past two seasons for the Ocoee Knights — recording 421 total tackles, 91 tackles for a loss, 50 sacks and three forced fumbles.
2
The Windermere High boys basketball team topped Evans High in the West Metro Conference championship game Jan. 10 by a score of 70-67.
The Wolverines are now 17-3 on the season and are ranked as MaxPreps’ No. 2 FHSAA Class 7A team, No. 7 team in the state and No. 65 team in the nation.
Senior T.J. Drain, a 6-foot-8 forward and Liberty signee, not only led the Wolverines in this game with 23 points, 11 rebounds and two blocks, but also he has led Windermere all season long — breaking the program’s single-game scoring record and crossing the 1,000-points scored career milestone.
3
New Foundation Academy football coach Daniel White has begun to fill out his coaching staff, recently announcing the hire of Jordan Richards as the Lions’ next defensive coordinator. Richards — a Foundation alum — began his coaching career at his alma mater, serving as the defensive coordinator and athletic facilities manager from 2021-22, following graduating from UCF with a degree in kinesiology and exercise science.
Beyond his role on the football staff, Richards also will be a P.E. teacher at Foundation; he began his role at the school Jan. 21.
4
Windermere boys soccer topped Ocoee in the West Metro Conference tournament championship game Jan. 15 in a penalty shootout, 3-1, following a 1-1 tie at the end of regulation.
Wolverines senior goalkeeper Alejandro Ochoa saved three penalty kicks during the shootout to seal the win for Windermere. In regulation, Windermere’s Francesco Sanchez and Ocoee’s Jacob Munoz scored the game’s two goals, the ninth goal scored by Munoz this season and the 21st goal scored by Sanchez. Although Windermere took home the trophy, the game will count as a draw in the record books. As of press time Jan. 21, Ocoee has a record of 10-2-7 on the season, while the Wolverines are 9-3-4.
5
The First Academy girls basketball’s Bianca Hall scored her 1,000th career point in a 39-29 home win over Trinity Catholic Jan. 18. “It’s a great accomplishment and certainly shows the discipline, drive and dedication she has put forth since she started playing in sixth grade,” said Royals Coach Kevin Hall, who is also Bianca’s father. In her third season as a Lady Royal, Bianca Hall has emerged as a key leader of one of the state’s best teams. TFA is MaxPreps’ No. 27 ranked team in Florida and the No. 5 ranked FHSAA Class 2A team.
PLAYOFF PUSH
With the district playoffs starting this week, we take a look at how the area’s teams could fare in the 2024-25 high school soccer postseason.
SAM ALBUQUERQUE SPORTS EDITOR
The West Orange and Southwest Orange communities are hotbeds for high school soccer, and the 202425 season has yet again shown that to be the case, with multiple boys and girls teams positioning themselves to compete for district, regional and even state titles.
Now that the regular season has concluded and teams begin to play in their respective district tournaments, here’s a preview of the playoff picture for the area’s teams.
TOP TEAMS
BOYS
HORIZON (11-4-3)
Best results: 5-1 win at Celebration (11-3-1); 3-3 tie at Lake Highland Prep (6-4-2); 5-0 win vs. Timber Creek (11-3-1) Player to watch: Weber Nakagawa, senior. With 22 goals and 10 assists on the season, the Horizon captain has not only been crucial to the Hawks’ success but he’s also having one of the best offensive performances in program history. MaxPreps Class 6A ranking: No. 10
n Postseason Outlook: The Horizon Hawks enter the FHSAA Class 6A, District 4 tournament on a ninegame unbeaten streak after facing a grueling regular-season schedule. Under first-year coach Sheamus Conway, the high-scoring Hawks are the clear favorites to take home the
Windermere High School baseball coach Eric Lassiter steps down
Following a historic run to the Class 7A championship game, Lassiter is stepping away from coaching high school baseball. A familiar face will take the reins.
SAM
ALBUQUERQUE SPORTS EDITOR
In its seven years of existence, the Windermere High baseball program has only had one coach, Eric Lassiter. But going into the 2025 season, he won’t be the man in charge of one of the top high school baseball programs in the state.
Lassiter — who coached at his alma mater, Apopka High, before taking the Windermere job in the summer of 2017 — announced in a letter posted to the Wolverines’ social media that he will step down from the position and step away from coaching high school baseball to focus on his family and other baseball roles at Power Baseball and Diamond Allegiance.
“It has been an honor to serve as the head coach of Windermere baseball and to be given the task of building the program into one of the premier baseball programs not only in Orlando but across the entire state of Florida,” Lassiter wrote. “Over the past seven years, I’ve had the privilege of working with an incredible staff of coaches and players, both past and present. After much consideration, I have decided to step down … and step away from coaching high school baseball. My other roles with Power Baseball and Diamond Allegiance now afford me the opportunity to focus more on my daughter’s athletic and extracurricular activities and be
Horizon boys soccer senior attacker Weber Nakagawa is on the verge of making program history . Page 2B.
Sam Albuquerque
Coming off his team’s best-ever season, Windermere High baseball coach Eric Lassiter has announced he will step down as the Wolverines coach.
Photos by Thomas Lightbody | TK Photography
West Orange girls soccer’s Ruby Schlegel hit the ball mid-leap.
Sam Albuquerque Foundation Academy midfielder Will Prunty lined up a pass.
Above: West Orange junior Tia Deering blasted a shot toward goal.
Right: West Orange’s Elijah Zavala celebrated a goal against Windermere Prep.
Weber Nakagawa
The high school boys soccer regular season is now over and the Horizon Hawks are once again one of the best teams in West Orange and Southwest Orange, despite having a first-year coach in Sheamus Conway and losing their leading scorer and playmaker from the 2023-24 team.
A big part of the continued success of the young program is the increased production from senior attacker and captain Weber Nakagawa. Last season, the Brazilian scored seven goals and dished out four assists in 14 appearances. This season, he’s scored 22 times and assisted 10 goals in 18 games. Both totals are the second-most in a single season in program history; Nakagawa needs just one more goal to tie the program record of 23.
Beyond his chase of individual accolades, Nakagawa’s production and leadership have been a big part of Horizon’s collective success. With a record of 11-4-3
— as of press time Jan. 21 — the Hawks are three wins away from matching the program’s most in a single season. With what could be the best individual statistical season in program history and the team possibly posting the most wins in its history, it’s clear Nakagawa is ready to lead the Hawks on a state championship run.
How does it feel to be named Athlete of the Week?
It’s a pleasure to be named Athlete of the Week. I am very happy to receive the honor.
What do you enjoy the most about soccer?
The thing I most enjoy about soccer is the adrenaline I get from playing the game.
What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned from soccer?
The biggest lesson I learned is that for everything you want in life, you have to work hard for it.
What is your favorite soccer memory?
My favorite soccer memory is from last season when I scored two goals in the district finals.
Who is your favorite athlete? Why?
My favorite athlete is Neymar. I
Is there someone you try to model your game after?
Yes, my dad. He was a really good soccer player back in the day.
What is your go-to pre-game meal?
I don’t really eat much before a game. If I do eat something, it is either some fruit or gum.
What is your go-to pre-game hype song?
My favorite song to listen to before games is a Brazilian song called “Nois Tá Bolando um Plano” by MC Don Juan and MC Hariel.
What is your favorite nonsports hobby? Going out with my family.
What is your favorite subject in school? Why?
U.S. Government because my coach is the teacher.
What are three things you would take with you to a deserted island?
I’d bring my girlfriend, water and a soccer ball.
What is your favorite movie?
“Pelé: Birth of a Legend.”
If you could have dinner with one person — dead or alive — who would it be?
I would go to dinner with my dad.
If you could go back in time to a specific period in history, when and where would you go?
I would go back to when I was little, so I could enjoy more time with my family.
Looking back, what piece of advice would you give your younger self?
The advice would be to take things more slowly and enjoy more time with my family. Also, enjoy being young.
If you could ask your future self a question, what would it be?
The question would be if I ended up becoming a professional soccer
Who is your favorite superhero?
Spider-Man because I grew up watching all the Spider-Man
If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?
I would want to have a neverending life — to live forever.
If you could travel to three places in the world, where would you go and why?
Brazil, to see my family, Italy just to visit and Greece because I really want to go to the beaches there.
If you could be an animal for a day, which one would you
I would want to be a dog so I can sleep in and do nothing
Does pineapple belong on — SAM ALBUQUERQUE
Wolverines welcome new baseball coach
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1B
the father I strive to be.
“I would also like to thank my wife, Daya, for all the sacrifices she has made over the last 14 years … allowing me to spend the time necessary to be the best coach/ mentor I could be for our studentathletes,” he wrote. “Building a successful athletic program requires exceptional leadership, and I am deeply grateful to my former principal, Doug Guthrie, and athletic director, Fred Priest, for their trust in me and my staff. I also want to thank our current principal, Andy Leftakis, and AD Jillian Sutton, for their continued support and their commitment to developing well-rounded student-athletes and teams. Without the unwavering backing of the administration and the Windermere Dugout Club, none of our achievements would have been possible.”
In his seven seasons as Windermere’s coach — including the ones affected by COVID-19 — Lassiter had a combined record of 132-38-1, which included three seasons with 25 or more wins, zero seasons with double-digit losses and only one season with more than six losses. Under Lassiter, the Wolverines also won five district championships and reached the playoffs five times.
To finish his time at Windermere, Lassiter led the Wolverines to their best-ever season. By the end of the spring, Windermere had won the most games (28) in its history, won its first regional championship and reached the FHSAA Class 7A State Championship for the first time — losing to South Florida powerhouse Stoneman Douglas High in extra innings, 3-2.
FROM RIGHT-HAND MAN TO MAIN MAN
As Lassiter steps down, Windermere is no longer the upstart program he took over in 2017. No, it is now one of the most accomplished programs in Florida, meaning the coaching vacancy left behind is also one of the most coveted.
However, Lassiter and the Windermere decision-makers left no room for speculation or rumors, as pitching coach Brian Adkins was announced as the successor in the goodbye letter.
“I look forward to watching the program’s continued success under the leadership of my great friend and colleague Brian Adkins and the rest of the current staff,” Lassiter wrote. Adkins, a former University High and UCF pitcher, has been a key part of Windermere’s success during Lassiter’s run; so much so he believes Adkins has everything it takes to keep the success rolling in for the Wolverines.
“Brian has been a part of my staff for the last 10 years and has been a huge part in my success, as well as in our teams’ over those 10 years as my right-hand man,” Lassiter said. “It is now his turn to get in the driver’s seat. Brian understands the community of Windermere, as he was with me when we opened the school. Brian also knows the time
“The last seven of my 14-year high school coaching journey (have) been nothing short of a dream job,” he said. “I will always consider myself a Wolverine/WindyBoy and will continue to support the Windermere baseball community in any way I can. The staff, players and families I’ve worked with have become an extension of my own family. … Thank you once again for the opportunity to lead this remarkable program. I look forward to supporting Windermere Baseball from the other side of the fence.”
and effort it takes to run a top-notch program. I look forward to watching Brian, the staff and the team’s success this year and in the future!” Adkins is grateful for the time he served under Lassiter’s leadership.
“Working with coach Lassiter over the past decade has been one of the most rewarding experiences both professionally, and moreover personally, in the strong bond and friendship we have developed,” Adkins wrote in his own letter to the Windermere baseball community. “I wish him nothing but success as he continues his endeavors and am forever thankful for his mentorship.”
Beyond replacing a legend in Lassiter, Adkins will have to deal with losing some of the top players to graduation — not just from the 2024 team but from the program’s history — in Ty Head and Cannon Feazell. Fortunately for the first-time head coach, the Wolverines will bring back a group full of college-level players; who will be led by one of the area’s top prospects, junior outfielder Randy Ruiz Jr.
“I have been fortunate to be with the Windermere High School baseball program as the assistant/ pitching coach since the inception of Windermere baseball,” Adkins said. “I firmly understand where we have been, where we are now and where we strive to be in the future. Rest assured, my goal is to make this coaching transition a seamless and successful process for the players, parents and the Windermere community. We have our coaching staff from previous years intact and we are all committed to our players achieving in the classroom and on the field of competition.”
Opening day is less than a month away for the new-look Wolverines, as they are set to play Deland High Tuesday, Feb. 4, at Oveido High.
Ocoee girls wrestling finish second overall at Skylar White Invitational
Led by senior Yamii Herring, and her first-place finish in the 235-pound weight class, the Ocoee High girls wrestling team finished second at the Skylar White Invitational hosted by Space Coast High Jan. 11. Along with Herring, five more Lady Knights wrestlers made it on the podium at the invitational tournament in Cocoa. Sophomore Amariah Alphonse (115 pounds), freshman Savannah Fernandes (130) and junior Maeecha Louisius (145) all placed second, while senior Tamia Atkins (120) and sophomore Sydney Sharper (145) finished third.
— SAM ALBUQUERQUE
Photos courtesy of Full Circle Sports Photography
Above: Ocoee’s Yamii Herring finished first at the Skylar White Invitational in the 235-pound weight class.
Left: Ocoee’s Hanna Perez attempted a takedown during her match in the 105 class.
Area soccer teams prep for postseason
district crown, having averaged 3.56 goals per game. Looking past districts, Horizon should be able to advance in the earlier rounds of the regional playoffs but will have one of the state’s top programs, Mandarin High, standing in its way of getting out of Region 1 and reaching the state semifinals.
OCOEE (10-2-7)
Best results: 2-1 win at Horizon (114-3); 2-1 win vs. Windermere (9-3-4); 3-0 win vs. Spruce Creek (14-5-5); 2-2 tie vs. Lake Nona (11-0-4)
Player to watch: Ismeal Herrera, senior. One of the biggest reasons why the Knights are the highest-ranked team in the area is their ability to limit scoring opportunities for the opposition. At the center of that is the senior goalie, who has only allowed 11 goals in 16 appearances for Ocoee High. MaxPreps Class 7A ranking: No. 5
n Postseason Outlook: Having faced nine teams inside the top 100 of MaxPreps’ Florida rankings (seven inside the top 50), Ocoee is more than prepared for any team it will face in the postseason. Relying on its stifling defense, which has only allowed 15 goals in its 19 games, the Knights are the favorites to claim the Class 7A, District 3 title. In the regional playoffs, Timber Creek High likely will be the biggest test Ocoee will face in Region 1.
WINDERMERE (9-3-4)
Best results: 1-1 (3-1 PKs) win vs. Ocoee (10-2-7); 8-2 win at West Orange (7-4-3); 2-2 tie vs. Horizon (11-4-3)
Player to watch: Francesco Sanchez, junior. Sanchez’s production speaks for itself — he’s bagged a team-leading 21 goals this season while adding six assists. Expect him and the rest of the potent Wolverines’ attack to continue rattling the net in the postseason.
MaxPreps Class 7A ranking: No. 9
n Postseason Outlook: With wins over three of its four possible opponents in the Class 7A, District 5 tournament, Windermere High is a heavy favorite to claim another district crown and start its climb back to the state final four — after losing to eventual champions Boca Raton High in the semifinals last season. However, the Wolverines route this season is a bit trickier, because they likely will have to get past Lake Nona High, Celebration High and Centennial High to get out of Region 2.
WINDERMERE PREP (11-2-2)
Best results: 1-0 win vs. Bishop Moore (19-3-2); 4-0 win at Foundation Academy (12-1-1); 3-0 win at Orangewood Christian (8-3-1)
Player to watch: Nicolas Parra, junior. Accounting for more than onethird of the Lakers’ offensive production, with 11 goals and three assists, Parra is crucial to helping a defensiveminded WPS team get ahead on the scoresheet.
MaxPreps Class 2A ranking: No. 8
n Postseason Outlook: After beating both Foundation Academy and The First Academy in the regular season, plus home-field advantage throughout districts, it’s safe to say the Lakers are the heavy favorites to win the Class 2A, District 6 title and put themselves in a good position for a run in regionals. Led by its defense, WPS only has allowed 10 goals in its 15 games this season, including nine clean sheets. To get past 2A heavy hitters, Holy Trinity Episcopal and The Benjamin School, and make a run in Region 2, the Lakers will need to keep that stellar play up.
GIRLS FOUNDATION ACADEMY (11-3-1)
Best results: 2-0 win vs. Windermere
(8-5-2); 2-2 tie vs. Windermere Prep
(3-5-5)
Player to watch: Camryn Clements, senior. The Lions captain has been phenomenal in the attacking third of the pitch this season, scoring 16 goals and dishing out 23 assists.
MaxPreps Class 2A ranking: No. 30
n Postseason Outlook: With a goal differential of +65, the Lady Lions have been masterful on both sides of the pitch — scoring an average of 5.4 goals per game. Although Foundation has dominated its opponents and is the favorite to win the Class 2A, District 6 title, Windermere Prep will
DISTRICT PLAYOFF SCHEDULE
BOYS
THURSDAY, JAN. 23
n Lake Mary at West Orange, 6:30 p.m. — Class 7A, District 3
semifinal
FRIDAY, JAN. 24
n Cornerstone Charter at Winder-
mere Prep, 3:30 p.m. — Class 2A, District 6 semifinal
n Ocoee vs. Apopka/Lake Brantley, 6:30 p.m. at West Orange High — Class 7A, District 3 semifinal
n Merritt Island Christian at Central Florida Christian, 7 p.m. — Class 1A, District 6 quarterfinal
n The First Academy at Foundation Academy, 7 p.m. — Class 2A, District 6 semifinal
MONDAY, JAN. 27
n Dr. Phillips vs. East Ridge, 5:30 p.m. at Olympia High — Class 7A, District 5 semifinal
n Windermere vs. Olympia/Oak Ridge, 7 p.m. at Olympia High — Class 7A, District 5 semifinal
TUESDAY, JAN. 28
n South Lake/Wekiva at Horizon, 6 p.m. — Class 6A, District 4 semifinal
Note: Lake Buena Vista played its district tournament game Jan. 22.
GIRLS
THURSDAY, JAN. 23
n Cornerstone Charter at Windermere Prep, 3:30 p.m. — Class 2A, District 6 semifinal
n The First Academy at Foundation Academy, 7 p.m. — Class 2A, District 6 semifinal
n Dr. Phillips vs. Oak Ridge, 7 p.m. at East Ridge High — Class 7A, District 5 quarterfinal
FRIDAY, JAN. 24
n West Orange vs. Lake Brantley, 5:30 p.m. at Lake Mary High — Class 7A, District 3 semifinal
MONDAY, JAN. 27
n South Lake at Horizon, 6 p.m. — Class 6A, District 4 semifinal
TUESDAY, JAN. 28
n Olympia vs. Windermere, 5:30 p.m. at East Ridge High — Class 7A, District 5 semifinal
Note: Ocoee and Lake Buena Vista played their respective district tournament game Jan. 22.
pose a significant threat to the Lions district title hopes.
OLYMPIA (11-3)
Best results: 5-0 win vs. Jones (8-7); 5-0 win at Windermere (8-5-2)
Player to watch: Isabella Harry, senior. Not only is Harry Olympia’s top offensive player — scoring 10 goals and assisting three more — she is also one of the few veteran voices on this extremely young Titans team.
MaxPreps Class 7A ranking: No. 45
n Postseason Outlook: Coming off a 4-10-2 season in 2023-24 and with only three seniors on its roster, this young Olympia High team has come out of nowhere to be in a position to compete for a District 5 championship and earn a spot in the regional playoffs. Although the Titans have a good chance of clinching their berth into the state playoffs with a district title win, they will face stiff competition from top seed East Ridge High.
WEST ORANGE (9-3-1)
Best results: 7-0 win at East Ridge (9-4-2); 5-0 win vs. Olympia (11-3); 5-0 win vs. Edgewater (7-6-3); 5-1 win vs. Hagerty (8-5-1)
Player to watch: Georgiana McNeil, senior. A four-year starter and University of St. Thomas signee, McNeil has led the Warriors in goals scored in three of her four seasons as a Lady Warrior. Her play in attack is one of the reasons for West Orange High’s success.
MaxPreps Class 7A ranking: No. 19
n Postseason Outlook: The West Orange Warriors have easily been the area’s top team in 2024-25, they’re also the area’s hottest team entering the district playoffs — winning four consecutive games by a combined scoreline of 33-2. Overall, the Warriors have scored 65 goals in their 13 games this season and are undefeated at home. Although the Warriors have a shot to win the District 3 crown, the hosting Lake Mary Rams are the favorites.
PARAMDAI “VICKY” SOMWARU HAMLIN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
INFLUENCER
Paramdai “Vicky” Somwaru is one of the fourth-grade teachers at Hamlin Elementary School. She goes above and beyond for her students every day; leads the school’s chess team; spends countless hours planning, preparing and teaching her students each year and sets high expectations both academically and socially that help her students to grow and be successful. She also is an adult ESOL teacher. She has been named Teacher of the Year, received the Disney “Teacherrific” award for two years and earned National Board Teacher Certification. The Lockheed Martin-University of Central Florida program paid for her Master of Mathematics and Science Education.
What brought you to your school?
I like new things! Hamlin is in a newer community and is closer to my evening job and home. Also, the fire alarm system is comforting and does not deafen the eardrums. Every school should have a new, updated fire alarm system!
What do you love most about your school?
I get to interact with students from various backgrounds and perspectives and some new to the United States. Hamlin provides a supportive and collaborative environment, where the emphasis is on studentcentered learning. Everyone works toward making a positive impact on students’ lives; academic, social and emotional learning experiences; and growth.
What is the most rewarding part of your job?
Seeing students succeed and make significant progress in their learning, which translates to making a positive impact on their lives; witnessing “aha” moments; the feedback and emails from parents and students about the positive impact of learning growth and success.
What would you be if you weren’t in this profession? I was born to teach! It is my calling, and I can’t see myself doing something different. Plus, a teacher gets to be anyone and everyone in the classroom. I can play the role of a doctor, lawyer, nurse, psychologist — whatever the content calls for. I get to engage my students and inspire them to explore new learning experiences.
Who influences you?
My students, positive people and selfless humans. They are in the supermarkets, we work with them, we walk by them, and they wear that kind smile.
Who was your favorite teacher when you were in school? Why?
Mr. Meltz, who taught “logic” at my junior high school. I enjoy challenges, and his class was a challenge.
REPORT CARD
POSITION: Fourth-grade teacher TIME AT SCHOOL: Three years at Hamlin Elementary, more than 20 with Orange County Public Schools
What is your favorite children’s book and why?
Dr. Seuss because every child learned his or her first words from his books. Recent favorites are “Who Was?,” “Where Is?,” “What Was?” These books give us life lessons. They teach us about hardships, love and fear and broaden our awareness of the world.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
In my spare time, I like to catch up on personal reading and self-help books, hug trees, meditation, ride my bike on the trail and spend time with family.
If you could dine with any famous person, past or present, who would it be and why?
Nelson Mandela, Mother Theresa or Gandhi because I consider these people to be selfless. They cared about humanity, and they inspired others to care, too. President (Donald) Trump because he needs to know that he holds the key to the future of our children and grandchildren — to remind him to think with the kids in mind!
If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why? My superpower would be to read and change minds for the betterment of the world.
If you could only listen to three bands or artists, who would they be and why?
Bob Marley, Sting and Kes
What was your go-to lunch and favorite snack as an elementary student?
Pizza and mac-and-cheese and they still are.
What is your favorite holiday and why?
Christmas because even if you are a Hindu/Muslim, everyone is aware of Christmas, and it’s a time when everyone thinks about the children other than their own.
Who was your best friend when you were in school and why? Are you still in touch?
Merly and Tope, and I have kept in touch. Both live in New York.
What were your extracurricular activities as a student? Did you win any accolades or honors?
Graduated at the top 10% of my class and received scholarships for college
On the write track
Windermere High’s ‘The Windy Word’ literary magazine gives a voice to students.
LIZ RAMOS SENIOR EDITOR
Eleanor Barber, a junior at Windermere High School, always has loved writing and had a few literary pieces she had written that gave her immense pride.
But she had no one to share them with and no platform on which to share them.
“I had writing myself that I really, really liked, and I was really proud of and wanted to show people, but it’s hard to do that without seeming like you’re trying to brag,” Barber said. “I know there were other kids in my class who also felt that way.”
That all changed when English teacher Jessica Moore brought up the idea of a literary magazine to Barber and her classmates last school year. Barber was all in.
“I just wanted to make sure kids had a space to speak their minds,” Barber said. “We have so many cre-
EDITORIAL BOARD
n Eleanor Barber: editor-in-chief
n Sophia Strelecky: communications director
n Nathaniel Jocelyn: managing editor
n Charlie Dudek: managing editor
n Siena Gulacsy: historian
n Grace Silkey: creative director
n Sophia Scherer: creative director
n Bernardo Geaquinto: creative director
n Jessica Moore: adviser
ative people here, and I wanted to make sure they all had a platform to express their work and their voice.”
But how was the magazine going to become a reality?
Barber, along with junior Sophia Strelecky, spearheaded the effort with Moore to form the magazine’s board and dedicate hours of work to reading students’ submissions; going through workshops with the writers; and designing, editing and, finally, publishing the first edition of “The Windy Word” in December.
The edition featured 16 studentwritten pieces and a teacher perspective from Moore.
Strelecky, the communications director for the editorial board, cried when she saw the finished product.
“I was like, ‘Oh my God, this is a real thing; we did it,’” Strelecky said.
“We finally did it, because there were so many hours put in by the writers and by the board. ... I think by the end of it, all of us were losing it a little bit, but it was so incredible to be like, ‘We made something that really inspired people and made people excited to be in school again,’ which I think is lost a little bit now.”
A “THIRD PLACE”
The first magazine featured a piece titled, “The Third Place,” describing how the school’s new on-campus football stadium became a “place that was neither home nor work, but a third place in which we spend our time. This place is supposedly somewhere that encourages social interaction, connections and relaxation.
… It’s a circumstance that creates a unique connection specific to that place and people.”
Although the piece was about the stadium, it opened the eyes of the editorial board that their “third place” was the literary magazine club. The club not only was becoming a sanctuary to them but also dozens
of students who wanted to express their creativity and demonstrate their talents.
Senior Bernardo Geaquinto, a creative director on the board, said oftentimes, athletics are the talk of the school. The creative aspect of education “gets left behind.”
“Track, swimming, football and soccer — all that’s really important and it’s great that we have that — but all the other kids that aren’t part of a sport, they just get left behind in the shadows,” Geaquinto said. “We needed to give them light so they could show all their incredible works.”
Board members said the students who attended the club’s meetings
were inspired. Barber said on multiple occasions, she had students come up to her in the halls to share the pieces they wanted to write and the ideas they had.
“It just fills you with pride, not for yourself, but for them, because they’re finally using their voices,” Barber said. “It just gives your school a bit more of a purpose.”
Junior Nathaniel Jocelyn, who is a managing editor on the board, has been involved in several clubs at Windermere, but the magazine club was the first in which he felt passionate about the work they were doing. He said it’s more common for students to join clubs to say they are a part of an organization, especially
when applying for college, but it’s not often they actually demonstrate an invested interest in the club.
DISCOVERING TALENT
Throughout the process of putting the magazine together, the board members learned about talents of students, including those on the board.
Board members said they were amazed to discover the writing abilities of fellow board member Siena Galuscy, who is the historian. Her piece, “Monsters Under My Bed,” left board members in awe.
The discovery of talents didn’t stop there. When the final edit of “The Windy Word” was published, Strelecky said all of the students involved in the process had positive feedback, even if their work wasn’t selected for final publication.
Barber said students were thrilled to bring their best for the next edition, which is expected to publish in March, in hopes they can be published.
LASTING LEGACY
Moore said without these specific students — Barber, Strelecky, Jocelyn, Geaquinto, Gulacsy, creative directors Sophia Scherer and Grace Silkey, and managing editor Charlie Dudek — “The Windy Word” wouldn’t be a reality.
“They’re all very articulate, and they capture the essence so well,” Moore said. “Our meetings are synergistic is how I would describe them. The reason for the inception of this in this brainchild as a teacher is because we have lost our love of learning in the classroom. To have them actually express they love doing this is something you’re going to find in a lot of clubs anymore is sort of nonexistent.”
Strelecky said the future of “The Windy Word” is bright. She’s spoken to sophomores already interested in getting involved and applying to become board members. Three spots will be vacant once Geaquinto, Scherer, Silkey, Gulacsy and Dudek graduate this year.
Read “The Windy Word” at publuu. com/flip-book/750585/1665782.
Liz Ramos
(Top) Sophia Scherer, Sophia Strelecky, Eleanor Barber, Charlie Dudek, (bottom) Bernardo Geaquinto and Nathaniel Jocelyn celebrated the first edition of “The Windy Word.”
Focused on the future
In his 2025 State of the Academy, Foundation Academy President David Buckles reflected on the past and presented the vision for the future — all while surrendering to God.
LIZ RAMOS SENIOR EDITOR
Dave Buckles, president of Foundation Academy, finds himself slowing down as he walks around campus daily.
He told Foundation Academy parents and students in his annual State of the Academy Thursday, Jan. 16, in the Mane Cafeteria/Worship Center on the Tilden Campus that he was in awe of what he saw.
“I find myself slowing down, taking a look at all that God’s doing, marveling at just how blessed we are,” he said. “God’s word reads in Ephesians 3:20, ‘Now to him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us.’ God has indeed provided all that we could ever ask or imagine because we surrender ourselves to God daily.”
Buckles reflected on the past 10 years of Foundation Academy before sharing the vision for the school’s future.
COMING TO FRUITION
“We have three stunning campuses, Plant Street, Tilden and Lakeside,” he said. “Here’s what’s crazy, 12 buildings with (more than) 225,000 square feet of space dedicated to the development, growth and innovative education to aid in the success of your students, as well as the families. It warms my heart.”
In 2019, the Lakeside Campus, which houses kindergarten through fifth grade, opened with only five students deemed “the Fab Five,” Buckles said.
In 2020, construction began on the Tilden Campus. The school most recently celebrated the opening of an addition to the Tilden Campus in September 2024, to accommodate 325 students, a conference room and computer lab.
Every step of the way, students and God were at the forefront.
“It wasn’t about the building or the amenities. It wasn’t about the additions,” Buckles said. “It was about the physical changes and additions that were meant for our students. It was unbelievable the resources and the tools that were entrusted to us by God to impact the lives of students and the families and the mission to reach a lost and dying world with the hope of Christ.”
Over the years, programming and curriculum at the school have brought new opportunities for students, including Tilden Campus’ produc-
tion room, Studio 58, and Vex robotics on the Plant Street and Lakeside campuses.
The past 10 years have included student success. Buckles said over the past 10 years, test scores have outscored the national average by 15%, the AP exam pass rate is 89%, the state and global pass rate is 60% and 65% respectively. The Class of 2024 earned $4.4 million in college scholarships.
FOCUSED ON THE FUTURE
The journey to 2030 will be focused on five key areas: spiritual development, academic excellence, safety and security, financial stability, and campus enhancements.
Buckles said the school will dive deeper into spiritual development.
“We’re going to inspire and teach biblical worldview, equipping students to embrace truth, identity and correct errors and follow Jesus in an
CLASS OF 2024
n 97: Number of students
n 1,902: College credits earned n 40%: Earned Bright Futures n 1 semester of college completed per grade n $4.4: Scholarships received n 78%: Attend in-state college or university n 19%: Attend out-of-state college or university 2024-2025
n 10: Honors core courses for grades six to eight n 23: Electives for middle school
n 23: Dual enrollment for high school n 43: High school electives
abundant life to which he’s called us,” Buckles said. “Yes, we’re already doing some of that. We’re going to do more of that. We’re going to provide our administrators, teachers and staff with the tools and training to grow in their biblical worldview and leadership. … We’re teaching kids why faith in God is important and how to defend that faith once they leave here.”
For academics, Buckles said there will be an expansion of rigorous academic programs with “dynamic instruction, relevant life skills development and faith-based leadership training, creating an innovative learning environment that combines research based education with collaboration and interdisciplinary strategies.”
With that comes a new opportunity starting with the Class of 2028. Students will be able to earn a special program of distinction on their diploma in specific areas of concentration, such as business, STEM and communications.
“We’re excited because this is a new way to prepare our students for the future and the career in higher education,” Buckles said.
The special program of distinction will help students learn to communicate, collaborate and critically think through project based learning.
A focus on safety and security will include strengthening campus security measures and increasing the use of technology for training and security.
To ensure financial stability, Buckles said Foundation Academy will continue to engage in “strategic financial planning grounded in biblical stewardship and opportunities for growth” while also creating business opportunities to generate revenue.
According to the 2030 strategic plan, campus enhancements will include creating STEAM-based learning centers on each campus, enhanced playground equipment on the Lakeside Campus and additions to West Athletic Campus on Tilden Campus. Projects for the West Athletic Campus include a track, tennis courts, bleachers, press box, concession stands, restrooms and fieldhouse. Projects are dependent on available funding.
A 1,500-seat fine arts auditorium is planned for the Tilden Campus as well.
“We have a clear plan moving forward fully surrendering all we are and all we do to Christ. No matter the grade or campus, we’re united by one vision from stem garden to STEM classes that ensures every student has the opportunity to succeed,” Buckles said.
File photo
Foundation Academy opened its Mane Cafeteria/Worship Center in August 2024.
Liz Ramos
Foundation Academy President Dave Buckles gave the State of the Academy, the theme of which was “Surrender.”
RICHARD S. BEEBE SR.
DIED DEC. 30, 2024.
Richard S. Beebe Sr., 89, of Estero, Florida, passed away peacefully on Dec. 30, 2024, at the Life Care Center of Estero. He was born in New York City on Sept. 10, 1935, and moved to Moss Point, Mississippi, in 1937. In 1948, Richard and his family moved to Mount Dora, Florida.
Richard married Elaine Huggins, on March 11, 1961, and together they spent 63 years and 10 months. Richard and Elaine’s life journey took them to Melbourne, then to Windermere, where they settled in 1961 on Lake Bessie. Richard and Elaine later moved to Maitland in 1994 and made their final moves to Coconut Creek in 2013 and Estero in 2024.
In his personal life, Richard was passionate about the outdoors and loved spending time on the water. He was an avid boater and sailor, even teaching sailing classes, and enjoying leisurely “putt-putts” around Lake Bessie with a drink in hand. Saturdays were reserved for tennis, and Thursday evenings found him on the court once again. He was also an enthusiastic camper who cherished nature, and his love for the Florida Gators was undeniable.
He was a proud Eagle Scout and longtime member of the Windermere Rotary Club, as well as the Gator Booster Club, where he actively supported his beloved Florida Gators.
Richard is survived by his wife, Elaine; daughter, Deborah (Ken) Butalewicz, of Boca Raton, Florida; sons, Kenneth (Gary) Beebe, of Tallahassee, Florida, and Rick (Karen) Beebe, of Naples, Florida; grandchildren, Shannon (Tom), Matthew (Dena), Andrew (Maddie), Jackson and Carter; and great-grandchildren, Thomas, Avery and Griffin.
A private family memorial service will be celebrated on Feb. 1, 2025. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Support Network, 1421 Pine Ridge Road, Suite 100, Naples, FL 34109, or support.network/donate/.
DUSTIN RAY MILLER
DIED JAN. 14, 2025.
Dustin Ray Miller, 45, passed away on Jan. 14, 2025. He was born in Herkimer, New York, to Joyce Miller. He was preceded in death by his wife, Tonia Miller, and father, Jerry Crouch.
He is survived by his mother; sisters, Crystal (David) Franchi and Denise (Jim) Provo; and brothers Rowdy (Jessica) Miller and Jack Conroy. He has four wonderful children, Erin Ross, Alexis Miller, Roland (Lee) Miller, Jasmine Miller. Dusty was the grandfather to six. He was a loving uncle to nieces and nephews. A celebration of life will be held from 1 to 5 p.m. Feb. 1 at 1701 Adair
RORY ALLEN QUESINBERRY
DIED JAN. 10, 2025
Retired Col. Rory Allen Quesinberry, United States Air Force, passed away peacefully Jan. 10, 2025, surrounded by his beloved family in his Tampa, Florida, home. He was born Nov. 8, 1954, in Orlando, Florida, to Jack L. and Belva Quesinberry.
He grew up in Windermere, attending Windermere Elementary School. He graduated from Colonial High School and Florida Technical University (now the University of Central Florida).
Rory devoted his life to his two great loves: family and country. A proud patriot, he served with distinction in the United States Air Force for 27 years, rising to the rank of Colonel. This service included two tours at The Pentagon. Following his retirement from the military, he continued to support the nation through a successful career in the defense industry.
Rory is survived by his loving wife of 48 years, Adria; his two daughters, Sara Strange (Chris) and Morgan Quesinberry; his brother, Rusty Jenkins (Sharon); his sisters, Kathy Taylor (Tim), Amy Price (Don) and Jeni McNeill (Steve); his brother-in-law, Richard Sanborn (Cathy); his cousin, Tom Catudal (Nancy); and many cherished
St., Ocoee.
“It would never be goodbye, for I have left my heart with you, so don’t you ever cry.
“The love that’s deep within me, shall reach you from the stars, you’ll feel it from the heavens, and it will heal the scars.”
nieces, nephews, extended family members and dear friends.
An avid golfer, Rory found joy and camaraderie on the golf course, sharing his passion for the sport with those closest to him.
A memorial service will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 30, 2025, at Bay Pines National Cemetery, 10000 Bay Pines Blvd., St. Petersburg, FL 33708. Following the service, a celebration of Rory’s life will take place at his home.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Rory’s memory to the Michael J. Fox Foundation to support Parkinson’s disease research and awareness, a cause deeply personal to him and his family.
Rory’s legacy of love, service and devotion will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Ellen Lorraine Akers, 89, died Tuesday, Jan. 14, 2025. Woodlawn Funeral Home & Memorial Park, Gotha.
Willie “Frank” Akins, 85, of Ocoee, died Sunday, Jan. 12, 2025. Woodlawn Funeral Home & Memorial Park, Gotha.
Arthur L. Berry, 93, died Monday, Jan. 13, 2025. Woodlawn Funeral Home & Memorial Park, Gotha.
Agnes “Kay” Bushing, 98, of Winter Garden, died Wednesday, Jan. 8, 2025. DeGusipe Funeral Home and Crematory, Ocoee.
John William Lucian Beck, 96, of Winter Garden, died Monday, Jan. 6, 2025. Baldwin-Fairchild Winter Garden Funeral Home
Gerald Boeneman, 80, of Winter Garden, died Thursday, Jan. 9, 2025. Winter Oak Funeral Home, Winter Garden.
Joyce A. Campos, 75, of Winter Garden, died Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2025. Winter Oak Funeral Home, Winter Garden.
Crystal Florence Coleman, 81, of Winter Garden, died Thursday, Jan. 2, 2025. DeGusipe Funeral Home and Crematory, Ocoee.
Brenda Creffield, 95, of Ocoee, died Saturday, Jan. 4, 2025. DeGusipe Funeral Home and Crematory, Ocoee.
Patricia E. Hernandez, 90, died Saturday, Jan. 4, 2025. Winter Oak Funeral Home, Winter Garden.
David L Hudson, 71 , died Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2025. Baldwin-Fairchild Winter Garden Funeral Home
Amanda Jean “Mandy” (Lahde) Mathis, 60, of Ocoee, died Friday, Jan. 10, 2025. Winter Oak Funeral Home, Winter Garden.
Jose E. Miglioranzi, 79, of Winter Garden, died Tuesday, Jan. 14, 2025. Winter Oak Funeral Home, Winter Garden.
Donald James Larsen, 91, died Wednesday, Jan. 15, 2025. Woodlawn Funeral Home & Memorial Park, Gotha.
Roshan Gulamhussein Mamdani, 95, died Tuesday, Jan. 14, 2025. Woodlawn Funeral Home & Memorial Park, Gotha.
Samuel James Northup, 57, of Oakland, died Monday, Jan. 6, 2025, at his home. Winter Oak Funeral Home, Winter Garden.
Juan Ortiz, 90, of Ocoee, died Saturday, Jan. 11, 2025 at Winter Garden Rehabilitation and Nursing Center, Winter Garden. Winter Oak Funeral Home, Winter Garden.
Demetrie Plaskon, 99, of Orlando, died Wednesday, Jan. 15, 2025. Woodlawn Funeral Home & Memorial Park, Gotha.
Paula L. Pool, 78, of Winter Garden, died Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. Winter Oak Funeral Home, Winter Garden.
Terry Wayne Pringle, 69, died Thursday, Jan. 9, 2025. DeGusipe Funeral Home and Crematory, Ocoee.
Walter Pulley, 100, died Sunday Jan. 12, 2025. Winter Oak Funeral Home, Winter Garden.
Salvador Rivera, 96, of Orlando, died Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025. DeGusipe Funeral Home and Crematory, Ocoee.
Betty Ann Stillson, 68, died Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. Winter Oak Funeral Home, Winter Garden.
Jack Stutman, 77, of Ocoee, died Friday, Jan 17, 2025. Winter Oak Funeral Home, Winter Garden.
Dorothy Ann Tippens, 74, of Ocoee, died Monday, Jan. 13, 2025, at Orlando Health — Health Central Hospital, Ocoee. Winter Oak Funeral Home, Winter Garden.
Dumitru “Plinius” Toaxen, 91, died Monday, Jan. 6, 2025. Collison Carey Hand Funeral Home, Winter Garden.
Sylbert Edward White, 100, of Orlando, died Tuesday, Jan. 14, 2025. Woodlawn Funeral Home & Memorial Park, Gotha.
Lloyd Alton Wilson, 75, of Montverde, died Wednesday, Jan. 15, 2025. Woodlawn Funeral Home & Memorial Park, Gotha.
THE WAYS WE WERE FROM THE WINTER GARDEN HERITAGE FOUNDATION
70 years ago
Mrs. Henry Britt Jr., chair of the youth center organization, requested a final answer from the Winter Garden City Commission regarding the purchase of a lot for a youth center adjacent to the tennis courts behind the American Legion post. The commission voted to sell the lot to the organization for $1,000.
60 years ago
The second Winter Garden Horse Show, benefitting the Lakeview High School Band, was set to be held at the L. Frank Roper Stables. Roper, owner of champion Tennessee Walking Horses for more than 20 years, was the manager of the show.
Barbara Roper, of Winter Garden, was named chair of the Walt Disney World Community Service Awards Committee.
40 years ago
Fred Tyler resigned as swim coach for West Orange High School.
The former Olympic gold medalist said he planned to continue coaching the West Orange YMCA Water Warriors.
35 years ago
A new key man joined the Hatley Pest Control team when John Claflin was hired as the general manager.
The town of Oakland honored William V. Nixon, former councilman, vice mayor and, on occasion, acting mayor for his 18 years of service to the community. He was affectionately known as “the Professor.” He received a plaque proclaiming Jan. 6 William V. Nixon Day, as well as a duplicate of the sign from the street named for him.
A “Disney Decade” of tremendous growth was announced at
At the recent Martin Luther King Jr. festival in Winter Garden, the Winter Garden Heritage Foundation showed this picture of a group of children attending a birthday party in the 1940s. The staff would appreciate any help with identification; some of the first names appear to be Essie, Loralee, Mera, Bee, Joe and Buddy. To provide further ID, call the WGHF at (407) 656-3244.
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.
Walt Disney World. The massive expansion program for the 1990s was to include 29 new attractions and shows in three theme parks, major resort hotels, shared vacation ownership units and a fourth theme park. New shows were planned starring “The Muppet Show” characters, Roger Rabbit, Dick Tracy and The Little Mermaid; featuring the talents of film giant George Lucas and legendary composer Andrew Lloyd Webber; and introducing guests to new Disney thrill adventures such as Splash Mountain, Alien Encounter and Journeys into Space. Epcot announced plans to add two international pavilions in World
Showcase: a Soviet Union pavilion and a Switzerland pavilion featuring a Matterhorn Mountain Bobsled Ride.
30 years ago
Ocoee officials gave their first approvals to the Lake Lotta Project, which was to include a 1,250,000-square-foot regional mall, later named West Oaks Mall, and 250,000 square feet of related commercial space. The mall was expected to have five large anchor stores, including Gayfer’s and possibly Dillard’s, Sears and JCPenney; a movie theater; and about 145 specialty shops.
William “Franklin” Cappleman and Mary “Virginia” Brown Cappleman celebrated 50 years of marriage.
Rob Nordin took the helm as executive director of the West Orange Chamber of Commerce. The experienced chamber professional hailed from Tulsa, Oklahoma.
Nick Gledich, principal of Windermere Elementary School, was honored as the recipient of the Commissioner of Education’s Outstanding Principal Award, given to one principal in each region of Florida for their admirable leadership and innovation in education.
THROWBACK
THURSDAY
JAN. 30, 1975
TG&Y used to hold end-of-themonth sales, and in January 1975, the five-and-dime variety store sought to clear out the inventory of its fabric department to make way for the latest in prints and notions.
An advertisement in The Winter Garden Times called polyester double knit “the most wanted fabric” and urged customers to “do exciting things with knit.” Also available was an assortment of Dacron polyester, Avril rayon and other materials — all priced at $2 to $3 for two yards.
The shop was located in the Tri-City Shopping Center at the intersection of Dillard Street and West Colonial Drive in Winter Garden.
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DOUBLE FRONT FLIPS by Michael David & Jeff Chen, edited by Jared Goudsmit
By Luis Campos
NEWSAPPER CHECK OUT OUR
Ringing in the New Year with Reliable Natural Gas
As we ring in the New Year, it’s time to toast to fresh beginnings, bold resolutions, and brighter futures.
For residents across Lake Apopka Natural Gas District’s (LANGD) service area, there’s one resolution that’s as practical as it is powerful: making the switch to safe, affordable, and reliable natural gas.
Natural gas isn’t just a choice for today—it’s a smart investment in your future. If your New Year’s goals include saving money, enhancing energy efficiency or making sustainable lifestyle changes, the District is here to help you achieve them with ease.
Here are just a few ways natural gas can power your New Year’s resolutions:
Save Money Without Sacrificing Comfort
Direct-use natural gas is one of the most affordable energy sources available. In fact, according to the American Gas Association, households with natural gas stand to save up to $1,100 annually compared to those that are all-electric. Whether it’s heating your home during chilly winter mornings or cooking up delicious family dinners, natural gas delivers high performance at a fraction of the cost.
LANGD customers can also receive up to $650 in rebates by switching non-gas appliances to natural gas-powered ones or old gas appliances with new ones. By switching, you can keep your financial resolutions on track while enjoying reliable comfort year-round.
Boost Efficiency and Reliability
One of the many benefits of natural gas is that it burns cleaner than other fossil fuels, producing less emissions in the process. According to Natural Gas Intelligence, natural gas releases 45% less carbon dioxide than coal and 30% less than oil. When you choose natural gas, you’re taking a step toward a greener future for our community and the planet.
Efficiency isn’t just about saving energy; it’s about making life easier. Natural gas appliances also heat up faster and deliver consistent performance— whether it’s your water heater, stove, or dryer. Natural gas provides a broad range of choices that can add value to your home and complete the look and feel of every room.
Finally, unlike an all-electric model, natural gas is delivered underground right to your home, ensuring unmatched reliability. That’s why so many essential services like hospitals, nursing homes and fire stations depend on natural gas, because when every second counts, losing power is simply not an option.
Making the Switch Ringing in the New Year with natural gas has never been easier, thanks to recent energy choice ordinances passed in Winter Garden, Clermont, and Apopka. These forward-thinking policies now ensure new developments include natural gas infrastructure, providing residents with seamless access to this efficient and cost-saving energy source while preventing the extra costs of adding natural gas infrastructure to their homes after construction. Learn more about how the District is continuing to help bring energy choice home in 2025 by visiting www.LANGD.org/Home/ PressAndEvents.
Here’s to a happy New Year powered by safe, affordable, reliable natural gas. For more information on natural gas service for your home, business or vehicle, please contact the District’s marketing team at (407) 656-2734 x307, marketing@langd.org or visit www.langd.org.
