01.01.26 West Orange Times & Observer

W EST O RA N G E T I M E S &

Observer Winter Garden, Ocoee, Oakland

YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD. FREE • THURSDAY, JANUARY 1, 2026

VOLUME 93, NO. 1

HAPPY NEW YEAR! The Observer Media Group staff wishes you much happiness and success in 2026!

YOUR TOWN OCLS, FAIR PLAN TALES FROM THE FARM EVENTS

Table for two:

Retirement

The Orange County Library System and the Central Florida Fair are partnering to bring Tales from the Farm, a fun farmthemed story time and animal meet-and-greet to several libraries this month.

The event will take place at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 14, at the Windermere Branch, 530 Main St., Windermere; 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 17, at the Winter Garden Branch, 805 E. Plant St., Winter Garden; 10:30 a.m. Friday, Jan. 23 at the Southwest Branch, 7255 Della Drive, Orlando; and 11 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 27, at the West Oaks Branch and Genealogy Center, 1821 E. Silver Star Road, Ocoee.

Animals will vary by location.

Registration is required at bit. ly/4oZYyMw.

OCOEE TO CELEBRATE MLK The city of Ocoee’s 18th annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Unity Parade and Celebration will take place at 10 a.m. Monday, Jan. 19.

The parade begins at Citrus Elementary School, 87 North Clarke Road, and ends at the parking lot of the West Oaks Mall. The public is invited to attend a post-parade celebration that will take place in the West Oaks Mall food court at 11 a.m.

Ages Hart will be the keynote speaker for the celebration.

Organizations may register for the parade by visiting ocoee. org/MLK.

Megan Bruinsma

Kevin and Laurie Tarter never could have imagined the resounding impact Chef’s Table would have on the Winter Garden community.

After 17 years, Chef’s Table founders Laurie and Kevin Tarters are ready for retirement. However, even though they won’t physically be there, the restaurant always will be close to their hearts. SEE 4A.

YEAR IN SPORTS

2025

YEAR IN PICTURES

Celebrate the 2025 sports seasons one last time with our look back. PAGES 16-17A.

SEE PAGES 3-15A

2A

OrangeObserver.com

OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 1, 2026

Is yours the fittest neighborhood in West Orange?

Maddy Owens, owner of Fit ’N Fierce, has created a fitness competition to take place between neighborhoods in West Orange.

LETICIA SILVA STAFF WRITER

People can kick off their fitness New Year’s resolutions with a fun and friendly competition through Fit ’N Fierce of West Orange.

Fit ’N Fierce is a communitydriven fitness collective located in Gotha, Ocoee and Dr. Phillips.

Maddy Owens, owner of Fit ’N Fierce, has created a friendly neighborhood competition, Battle of the Neighborhoods, to normalize working out.

From January to March, a maximum of five people from the same neighborhood in West Orange can come together to create a team and sign up for the challenge with a chance to win $1,000.

“There’s a different level of accountability that comes with a journey when you’re not doing it alone or with a couple of friends,” Owens said. “(Because) we are a community-driven fitness program, I was like, ‘I really want to do a competition where (participants) have to have a team from their neighborhood.’”

Owens said competitions can make people stay consistent and motivated, especially when there is a cash prize involved.

Courtesy photo

Fit ’N Fierce members take on a variety of challenges together. The collective is hosting a neighborhood challenge to kick off 2026.

“For some people, fitness is a punishment,” she said. “We’re trying to normalize being active. It’s supposed to be part of every day life, not a part of something you only do to reach a certain health marker. …

We’re trying to find a way where we can help people make this a lifestyle change as opposed to just a phase they go through.”

Owens recalled her fitness journey starting at 7 years old,

working out to a VHS tape called “Balance Workout.”

Owens said she didn’t know what working out meant back then and believed the tape was an interactive movie. “‘Can we watch this movie together?’” Owens would ask her mom. “I was just having fun, just being active. And then one day, my mom said, ‘I’m too tired to work out today, Maddy.’”

That is when Owens realized the tape wasn’t just an interactive movie but rather her mom’s workout tape.

“Because it was fun for me, I didn’t develop a negative relationship with it, and I kept it up my whole life,” Owens said. “I became a nerd over how the human body adapts to the physical demand you put on it. So I carried that through middle school, high school and college.”

The love she has for fitness is one she hopes to share with her clients through this competition, making them fall in love with it, as well.

“When I have an off period, it really impacts my ability to get through my day, like my sleep, my mood, my energy levels,” she said. “Everything just gets thrown off and I realized, ‘Wow, exercise is such a key part of life.’”

Owens said there are multiple ways for a team to earn points in the competition to rise to

HOW TO JOIN COST: $10 DETAILS: Minimum of four groups with five participants in each team.

WHEN: January to March. Deadline to sign up is Saturday, Jan. 3. The final fitness competition will take place March 7 at 2220 Hempel Ave, Gotha.

WEBSITE: Visit fitnfierceofwestorange.com/battle-of-theneighborhoods to sign up.

the top including attending classes, eating healthy meals, bringing new members to classes, coordinating matching outfits, participating in challenges such as push-ups and planks, and more.

Points will be tracked through a private group chat and a master leaderboard that are updated by Owens.

“This is just to help promote healthy living habits,” she said. “I would love for this to be an annual event that grows and gets bigger with time.”

The challenge will end March 7, 2026, with a final competition in which people will participate in fitness challenges, such as carrying 50% of their body weight, a minute-long farmer’s carry and more.

The final competition will be open to all to attend and cheer on their neighbors, friends and family.

One place. One weekend.

All your projects solved.

JAN. 9-11

Orange County Convention Center North Concourse

FREE ADMISSION Fri

SAT

1/9 1/10

Save time with everything for your home and garden under one roof. Save money with show-only discounts. Have fun with activities for the whole family and so much more!

COURTESY OF

Spa Manufacturers

SUN learn more at 1/11 orlandohomeandgardenshow.com

12pm-5pm 10am-6pm 11am-5pm

OrangeObserver.com

2025

OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 1, 2026

YEAR IN PICTURES

3A

4A

OrangeObserver.com

OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 1, 2026

Observer “If we are to build a better world, we must remember that the guiding principle is this — a policy of freedom for the individual is the only truly progressive policy.”

Friedrich Hayek

“Road to Serfdom,” 1944 Editor and Publisher / Michael Eng, meng@OrangeObserver.com Design Editor / Jessica Eng, jeng@OrangeObserver.com Managing Editor / Liz Ramos, lramos@OrangeObserver.com Historian / Amy Quesinberry Price, amyqhistory@OrangeObserver.com Staff Writer / Megan Bruinsma, mbruinsma@OrangeObserver.com Staff Writer / Leticia Silva, lsilva@OrangeObserver.com Multimedia Sales Manager / Cyndi Gustafson, advertising@OrangeObserver.com Multimedia Advertising Executive / Iggy Collazo, iggy@OrangeObserver.com Graphic Designer / Sarah Santiago, ssantiago@OrangeObserver.com Advertising Operations Manager / Allison Brunelle, abrunelle@OrangeObserver.com

CONTACT US

Chef’s Table founders Kevin and Laurie Tarter are ready to begin the next chapters of their lives.

Chef’s Table founders retire after 17 years MEGAN BRUINSMA STAFF WRITER

W

hen Laurie Tarter discovered the first reservation book from the Chef’s Table, tears flashed through her eyes, seeing names of Winter Garden residents who first stepped foot inside the nine-table restaurant.

Two names, John and Linda Rees, quickly caught her attention. The current mayor of Winter Garden and his wife loved the restaurant and became its biggest supporters in 2008.

When Chef’s Table won the Florida Trend Golden Spoon award, the Reeses rented a limousine to take the Tarters and the restaurant’s small staff of eight to the award ceremony. At the ceremony, there were scattered stacks of the Florida Trend magazine with the Tarters’ accomplishment.

“I remember John and Linda running around, just (grabbing) big stacks of magazines with us in it to give it out and put around town because they were just so proud; they wanted us to succeed,” Kevin Tarter said.

And that they did.

Now, 17 years after the Chef’s Table’s birth, Laurie and Kevin Tarter have closed that chapter in their lives and begin anew in retirement. But its memories and lasting impact on the couple and Winter Garden never will be forgotten.

HUMBLE BEGINNINGS

When they opened Chef’s Table with nine tables and 30 seats, they never envisioned it would become anything more than that.

Kevin Tarter came down to Florida in 1988 to open the Grand Floridian at Disney. He drove 20 miles to get to work every day and never developed an intimate connection with the community. When the Tarters opened the restaurant, everything flipped.

Suddenly, their work was with their neighbors.

“We started a whole new life,” Laurie Tarter said.

In 2008 — during the Great Recession — launching a fine-dining restaurant featuring a three-course, fixed-price menu seemed like a crazy idea to many. But the Tarters were tired of commuting to Winter Park or Disney for a nice dinner. They wanted a place in Winter Garden, so they did just that.

An opening became available at the bottom of the Edgewater Hotel.

Kevin Tarter described Laurie as a “go-getter,” and she pounced on the opportunity while he began cooking up plans for a menu. They took the

chance, maxed out their credit cards and went for it.

Laurie Tarter said they were confident that if they built the restaurant into an experience, the community would be overjoyed. When they first opened the doors, they discovered people were happy to have the owners actually taking care of them and Kevin Tarter preparing the food.

It was an instant success.

They remembered their first writeup of many being done in the West Orange Times. Scott Joseph, the Orlando Sentinel’s food critic for two decades, was being let go because of print budget cuts, and he chose to dedicate his final review to the Chef’s Table, knowing it would be a positive piece.

Then, they were awarded the Best New Restaurant, a form of publicity they couldn’t buy, Kevin Tarter said.

As positive reviews piled up, they started to become a destination spot.

“We were the first destination restaurant in Winter Garden and that makes us proud,” Laurie Tarter said.

As the restaurant became more popular, they realized the nine-table setup no longer would work, and they began expanding. In 2009, they took over the deli space next door, doubling their capacity to 18 tables and 60 seats.

“We were sure that we were at the end of our growth period,” Laurie Tarter said. “We were happy with that.

We were so excited, and we thought it was all done.”

In 2011, she received a call from the landlord saying Shaw’s Flowers wouldn’t be continuing the lease and she took the offer to take over the space. Kevin Tarter questioned what they would do with the added space, and soon enough, the Tasting Room was born. Crafting small plates fit perfectly in the tiny kitchen that is smaller than the one in the Tarters’ home.

“This is our home.We didn’t want to build a restaurant in some place that we didn’t have any kind of footing in already. Neither of us need a helicopter or a yacht. We’re happy doing what we do, we’re comfortable, and that’s all we really wanted out of life.”

— Kevin Tarter

And just like that, a new place for the Winter Garden community emerged.

The Tasting Room became the space for the neighborhood, while the Chef’s Table stuck as a destination spot for people all across Central Florida.

They had offers to start franchising, but that was never the goal.

“This is our home,” Kevin Tarter said. “We didn’t want to build a restaurant in some place that we didn’t have any kind of footing in already.

Neither of us need a helicopter or a yacht. We’re happy doing what we do, we’re comfortable, and that’s all we really wanted out of life.”

LIFE TRANSFORMATION

When they opened, they didn’t have “a guy” to do anything; they were “the guy.” The Tarters spent months painting, cleaning, fixing and purchasing all of the equipment.

“That restaurant was painted with friends and stuff like that, it’s (walls) saves memories,” Laurie Tarter said.

At some point, they had to hire fulltime executive chefs and full-time general managers so they could run what they needed to from home. They started a home office, and their hours spent in the restaurant became when the doors weren’t even open.

They also took ownership of The Attic Door in 2019 when it became available for sale. It had been one of their favorite spots at which to dine, and they were determined to keep its roots, while slightly transforming the food vision.

Now, the couple plans to put The Attic Door up for sale, hoping to find a buyer who shares their initial vision: preserve its core character while introducing their unique style. They already have received interest from future buyers, but they are prioritizing a careful and thoughtful process to ensure the property goes to the most suitable new owner rather than rushing the sale.

It took a lot of soul-searching to decide they were ready for retirement.

The Tarters loved being the ones who served families and creating lifelong memories, but they missed out on their own. Every holiday, every weekend, they were working and taking care of the restaurant as its parents.

“We’ve sacrificed for the better part of two decades doing this, and we’ve got some catching up to do,” Kevin Tarter said.

When Laurie Tarter turned 60 in November, that was when they decided it was time to retire, sell their businesses and minimize their footprint to start focusing on their own family.

The restaurateurs said goodbye to

Megan Bruinsma

KEVIN’S FAVORITE DISH OXTAIL EMPANADAS Preparation: The chef slow braises oxtails with carrots and vegetables. Then, rather than using a traditional thick empanada dough, the chef uses wonton skins to create a lighter and crispier dish.

the Chef’s Table Monday, Dec. 1. Days later, they went to Plant Street to enjoy a bite of food during Light Up Winter Garden, and a procession came by them. Kevin Tarter said people passed by to thank them. People shared how the restaurant was the place they took their wives on their first date, celebrated anniversaries and enjoyed a before-prom meal.

Hearing residents’ gratitude resonated with the Tarters, they never truly realized their impact on others’ lives. The comments online hit hard for Laurie Tarter.

“You realize how much our vision of the restaurant and what we wanted to give for people as a fine-dining experience, what they walked away from, which was everything we could have dreamt of doing,” she said.

The West Orange Times, West Orange Times & Observer and Southwest Orange Observer are published once weekly, on Thursdays. The papers can be found in many commercial locations throughout West Orange and Southwest Orange.

If you wish to subscribe, visit our website, OrangeObserver.com, call (407) 656-2121 or visit our office, 661 Garden Commerce Parkway, Suite 180, Winter Garden.

TO ADVERTISE

For display or digital advertising, call (407) 656-2121.

For Classifieds, call (407) 656-2121.

SEND US YOUR NEWS We want to hear from you. Let us know about your events, celebrations and achievements.

To contact us, email to Michael Eng, meng@OrangeObserver.com.

STATEMENT OF OWNERSHIP PUBLIC NOTICES

The West Orange Times meets the legal requirements to publish legal and public notices in Orange County per F.S. 50.011 USPS Periodicals Permit (USPS# 687-120)

A NEW CHAPTER

In their retirement, the Tarters have an extensive bucket list of trips they want to check off. They’ve never been to Europe; Laurie Tarter has dreams of seeing the aurora borealis or sleeping in a castle.

But the first step in retirement is checking off the local to-do lists.

In 2020, the Tarters purchased a home in the mountains of North Carolina and since have been living out their snow-bird life. As they begin the next chapter of their lives, they will prioritize fixing up their Lake Apopka and North Carolina homes.

“We have a beautiful view of the lake but we haven’t been able to do the things there we want to do because the restaurant always calls,” Kevin Tarter said of their Lake Apopka home.

Laurie Tarter can only focus on one thing at a time. She’s slowly learning not to hyperfixate on the restaurants but rather focus on their lives.

Her first steps are beginning projects that need to be done around the home — cleaning out closets, hiring people to do bigger tasks — but the biggest thing she’s looking forward to is relaxing and writing.

She has started five different books about their lives. There’s a book detailing the Chef’s Table’s journey as well as some fictional pieces.

Kevin Tarter hopes to pick reading back up. He loves devouring a book, getting captivated and sucked into it, but with the consuming restaurant business, he hasn’t been able to do so. He intends to put on his brewers hat and craft some homemade beer, a hobby he had before the restaurant.

“The world is our oyster right now,” Laurie Tarter said.

WEST ORANGE TIMES

The West Orange Times (USPS 687120) is published weekly for $60 per year and $110 per two years by the Observer Media Group, 661 Garden Commerce Parkway, Winter Garden, Florida, 34787. Periodical postage paid at Winter Garden, Florida.

POSTMASTER: Send changes of address to the (name of pub; i.e., West Orange Times, West Orange Times & Observer or Southwest Orange Observer), Observer Media Group, 11970 Main Street, Floor 3, Sarasota, FL 34236

Observer Media Group Inc. is locally owned.

Publisher of the Longboat Observer, East County Observer, Sarasota Observer, Siesta Key Observer, West Orange Times & Observer, Southwest Orange Observer, Business Observer, LWR Life Magazine, Key Life Magazine, Baldwin Park Living Magazine and Season Magazine

Founding Editor and CEO / Matt Walsh President / Emily Walsh Vice President / Lisa Walsh Chairman Emeritus / David Beliles

1970 Main St. Third Floor Sarasota, FL 34236 941-366-3468

OrangeObserver.com © 2024 The Observer Media Group Inc. All Rights Reserved

OrangeObserver.com

OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 1, 2026

Seniors Kathy Tran and Vivi Huynh made Chinese New Year lanterns to hang around the Windermere Prep campus as part of the school’s Day of Service.

Published Jan. 30, 2025.

Right: Windermere’s patriotic horse statue was reinstalled as a permanent reminder of one of the town’s favorite sons, U.S. Army 1st Lt. Evan Fitzgibbon.

Published Jan. 16, 2025.

Nicholas Marotta and his grandmother, Judy Patrizzi, went on a skydiving adventure after he returned from his two-year mission to Madagascar. Published Jan. 2, 2025.

JANUARY

Erin Huntley, the chair of the Orange County Republican Party, traveled to Tallahassee in December to cast a vote for President-elect Donald Trump on behalf of Florida residents.

Published Jan. 16, 2025.

Both Winter Garden and Ocoee honored the life and legacy of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with inspired celebrations Monday, Jan. 20, 2025. Published Jan. 23, 2025.

Ben Snyder Jr., with the help of his mother, Michelle Snyder, wrote a book that shares a biological child’s view of growing up in a household with more than 25 foster ‘siblings.’ Published Jan. 23, 2025.

Attorneys for Tommy Zeigler submitted new DNA analysis that could exonerate the Winter Garden furniture store owner who has been on Florida’s death row for nearly 49 years. His evidentiary hearing took place in December 2025. Published Jan. 30, 2025.

OCOM Media Engineer/IT Specialist Edwin Gonzalez, left, and Dean and Chief Academic Officer Dr. Robert Hasty worked together to produce The OCOM Podcast. Published Jan. 23, 2025.

The town of Windermere kicked off its centennial with a Torch Lighting Ceremony of the Centennial Flames Friday, Jan. 24, at Town Hall. Published Jan. 30, 2025.

5A

6A

OrangeObserver.com

OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 1, 2026

Nearly 30 students from The First Academy traveled to New York City for a multipleday field trip full of educational and cultural experiences. Published Feb. 20, 2025.

Petty USA performed note-for-note renditions of Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers hits.at the 2025 Winter Garden Music Festival, held Saturday, Feb. 22, in downtown. Published Feb. 27, 2025.

FEBRUARY

Florida state Senator for District 15 Geraldine Thompson died Feb. 13, 2025, after complications from knee surgery. She was 76. Published Feb. 20, 2025.

City officials and staff welcomed Ocoee residents for the reveal of the 1,200-foot McKey Street Centennial Mural as part of the city’s 100-year anniversary festivities.

Published Feb. 13, 2025.

Curtis Massey, Oakland’s first black mayor, led the town at a time when it had few paved roads, a two-person police department and no town taxes. Published Feb. 20, 2025.

Left: Attendees had a blast trying various food and wine at the 11th annual Windermere Wine & Dine Saturday, Feb. 1. Published Feb. 6, 2025.

Water Spring Middle School eighth-graders descended upon the New Yorker Ballroom on the second floor of New York Beer Project for the school’s annual semiformal dance. Published March 27, 2025.

Right: The father-son team of Mac and Jesse Bishop spent nine solid months rebuilding a 1979 Ford Bronco, and it is nearly road-ready. Published March 6, 2025.

MARCH Faith, coffee and help from their church community keep Daniel and Brianne Griffis moving forward on the days they feel they’re at their breaking point. The couple loves their house full of children, laughter and chaos. Published March 27, 2025.

Windermere Preparatory School sent 29 students to Tanzania for a trip of service, education and exploration. Published March 20, 2025.

Left: London Hudson, a second-grader at Windermere Elementary, competed in a pie-eating contest at the school’s Family Festival Saturday, March 1. Published March 6, 2025.

Windermere High School senior and recently named Super Scholar Samuel Lahik was among the four people killed in a late-night crash Saturday, March 1. Published March 6, 2025.

Left: Olivia Berman, 4, and her 4-month-old sister, Maya Berman, both dressed as Ana for the Rosen JCC’s Purim Pop-Up Friday, March 14. Published March 20, 2025.

OrangeObserver.com

OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 1, 2026

7A

Relay for Life of Lake Buena Vista returned for its second consecutive year — and 19th total — at District Fire Station No. 4. This year marked the 40th anniversary of the fundraiser. Published April 3, 2025.

APRIL

Irene and Bud Veit celebrated their 64th wedding anniversary at the Rotary Club of Winter Garden’s annual Evening at the Pops Saturday, March 29, at Newtown Park. Published April 3, 2025.

Families throughout West Orange and Southwest Orange had plenty of ways to celebrate Easter. Published April 24, 2025.

Hundreds of beer connoisseurs flocked to Hamlin for the second annual Hamlin Craft Beer Festival, presented by Legacy Events for Education in partnership with Observer Media Group. Published April 3, 2025.

Mei Ashton’s passion has turned into a business that inspires others and spreads awareness for her invisible illnesses. Published April 24, 2025.

Left: Family Church’s Brazilian Community presented its Easter drama production Sunday, April 20, at its Lakeside Village campus.

Published April 24, 2025.

Right: Pathways for Life Academy helps students not only in academics but also in life. Karen Wise taught students Alejandro Resto and Nya Joseph how to make lasagna. Published April 17, 2025.

Learn if

> edwardjones.com | Member SIPC

> edwardjones.com | Member SIPC

Come explore what GriefShare is all about in a relaxed, welcoming setting.

• Meet our trained and caring facilitators • Hear firsthand stories from past participants • Learn how our 13-week fall program can help • Connect with others who understand your loss

RSVP at st.lukes.org/griefshareopenhouse.

Call 407.876.4991 ext. 262 for more details.

> edwardjones.com | Member SIPC

SCAN FOR DETAILS

Season’s greetings Season’s greetings Season’s greetings Here’s to all good things this holiday season.

Season’s greetings Here’s to all good things this holiday season.

Here’s to all good things this holiday season.

Bruce Young, CFP®, ChFC®, CRPC™ Season’s greetings Here’s to all good things this holiday season.

Financial Advisor

17301CFP®, PagoniaChFC®, Road SteCRPC™ 100 Bruce Young, Bruce Young, CFP®, ChFC®, CRPC™ FL 34711 Clermont, Financial Advisor

Financial Advisor

407-654-4915 17301 Pagonia Road Ste 100

Bruce Young, CFP®, ChFC®, CRPC™this holiday season.

Here’s toRoad all good things 17301 Pagonia Ste 100 Financial Advisor Clermont, FL 34711 Clermont, FL 34711 407-654-4915 EJB-9811F-A-E-DA AECSPAD 27083930 407-654-4915 17301 Pagonia Road Ste 100 Clermont, FL 34711 407-654-4915

EJB-9811F-A-E-DA AECSPAD 27083930 EJB-9811F-A-E-DA AECSPAD 27083930 EJB-9811F-A-E-DA AECSPAD 27083930

Scan the code with the camera Scan thephone code on your with the camera on your phone

Scan the code with the camera on your phone Scan the code with the camera on your phone

Bruce Young, CFP®, ChFC®, CRPC™ Financial Advisor

17301 Pagonia Road Ste 100 Clermont, FL 34711 407-654-4915

EJB-9811F-A-E-DA AECSPAD 27083930

@Observerorange

Scan the code with the camera on your phone

454538-1

is right for you

> edwardjones.com | Member SIPC > edwardjones.com | Member SIPC

8A

OrangeObserver.com

OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 1, 2026

For 20 years, customers needing to send packages, buy stamps or pick up mail at the Winter Garden Post Office on West Colonial Drive likely walked up to Ramanand Rewah’s window. The longtime USPS employee retired in 2025. Published May 1, 2025.

Gold Star families, along with Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings and Orange County Sheriff John Mina, concluded Woodlawn’s Memorial Day Service with a dove release. Published May 29, 2025.

Top right: The town of Windermere continued its centennial celebrations by unsealing and revealing the contents of the 50-year time capsule the town buried in 1975. Published May 1, 2025.

Thomas Lightbody | TK Photography

West Orange High School’s Class of 2025 participated in three Warrior traditions — the Sen’ya Later Parade, the Senior Walkout and Senior Sunset — to cap their final week of their high school careers. Published May 22, 2025.

The West Orange Junior Service League held a festive 15th annual Run for the Roses Saturday, May 3, at the Ocoee Lakeshore Center. Published May 8, 2025.

MAY

Amy Quesinberry Price has told West Orange’s stories for 35 years. She ‘retired’ from the Observer Media Group in May. Published May 15, 2025.

Joel Doss, of Ocoee, was nominated for the one-day trip to Washington, D.C., to experience the war memorials in the nation’s capital. Doss served in both the Vietnam and Persian Gulf wars. Published May 29, 2025.

Winter Garden’s Young Star Musical Theatre’s production of ‘Les Misérables: School Edition’ featured a cast of about 60 young actors. Published May 8, 2025.

Ocoee’s Don Bedwell was the first in line at the grand opening of Wawa. He was thrilled to receive his free cup of coffee and T-shirt. Published May 8, 2025.

OrangeObserver.com

OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 1, 2026

St. Luke’s Youth Theatre Camp participants brought Disney’s “Dare to Dream Jr.” to life on stage. Published June 26, 2025.

After undergoing a second liver transplant, Horizon West resident Andrew Wagner has a new outlook on life. Published June 19, 2025.

Left: Jerry Chicone, a titan of the citrus industry and of Winter Garden, died May 29, 2025. He was 90. Published June 12, 2025.

West Orange and Southwest Orange residents were among the first to experience Universal’s Epic Universe. Published June 5, 2025.

Agave Bandido opened in June in Hamlin. Published June 12, 2025.

JUNE

The Backyard opened Tuesday, June 10, in Ocoee.

The new venue brings guests options for food trucks, drinks and outdoor party activities. Published June 26, 2025.

Thomas Lightbody | TK Photography

The Asian American Heritage Council of Central Florida’s Asian Cultural Festival took place in Ocoee. Published June 5, 2025.

Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings gave the State of the County address, stressing the importance of working together efficiently. Published June 19, 2025.

Winter Garden held a celebration June 21 with booths, food, music and more to honor Juneteenth. Published June 26, 2025.

Windermere High School celebrated its Class of 2025 with an energetic graduation ceremony at 8 a.m. Wednesday, May 28, at Kia Center. Published June 5, 2025.

9A

10A

OrangeObserver.com

OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 1, 2026

LaVon Bracy Davis won the primary for Florida Senate District 15. Published July 3, 2025.

Left: Phil Cross has lived his entire life in West Orange County and has become a historian on the area and its railroads.

Published July 17, 2025.

JULY Austin Arthur was named West Orange Habitat for Humanity’s new president.

Published July 31, 2025.

Right: Tim Keating, 65, led his life with service to his family, his community, his church and his industry.

He died Sunday, July 20, 2025.

Published July 31, 2025.

Horizon West’s Amelia Crassus de Senior found a new passion in painting after arthritis took away her first love of the arts: playing piano. Published July 31, 2025.

Left: Amelia Sherlock and Palmer Trien (top row), and Kenny Trien, left, JP Sherlock and Luke Sherlock all enjoyed the Fourth of July in Windermere.

Published July 10, 2025.

NOW OPEN

When the unexpected happens, you can count on HCA Florida West Orange Emergency to be here for you.

We are part of the HCA Florida Healthcare family, Florida’s largest ER network. Our board-certified physicians and highly trained nurses specialize in emergency medicine, diagnosing and treating all emergency conditions for adults and pediatric patients including: • Injuries, such as fractures and lacerations

1320 Daniels Rd.

Located at 1320 Daniels Rd. in Winter Garden, we offer 24/7 emergency care and leading-edge technologies.

West Colonial Drive

Daniels Road

ER

NEW

HCA Florida West Orange Emergency

429

Florida’s Turnpike

• Stomach or abdominal pain • Upper respiratory infections • Chest pain • Stroke

Scan to learn more about our ER services or go to HCAFloridaHealthcare.com

OrangeObserver.com

11A

OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 1, 2026

West Orange County’s

Church DIRECTORY Thomas Lightbody | TK Photography

West Orange High seniors enjoyed painting their school parking spaces. Published Aug. 14, 2025.

BAPTIST

METHODIST

First Baptist Church

First United Methodist

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

www.fumcwg.org 125 N. Lakeview Ave., Winter Garden (407) 656-1135 Services: 9 AM Traditional 10:45 AM Contemporary Also viewable on YouTube

2nd Campus: First Baptist Church

PRESBYTERIAN

CHURCH

@ Horizon West 15304 Tilden Road, Winter Garden Sundays: 9:45 AM All Ages www.FBCWG.org

St. John’s PCA

Starke Lake Baptist Church STARKE LAKE BAPTIST

Rector The Rev. Canon Tim Trombitas 1146 East Plant St, Winter Garden

Pastor Jeff Pritchard CHURCH PO Box 611 W Ave, Ocoee PO Box520, 520 Pastor Jeff Pritchard 611 W Ave., Ocoee (407) 656-2351 (407) 656-2351 www.starkelakebaptist.org www.StarkeLakeBaptist.org

CHURCH OF GOD

OCOEE CHURCH OF GOD

Victory Baptist Church Pastor Thomas Odom N. Lakewood Avenue, Ocoee &1105 Christian Academy

A complaint against the Williams Holiday House threatened the future of the Winter Garden mainstay. Published Aug. 21, 2025.

407-656-8011

AUGUST

407-656-3342 | BeulahBaptistWG.org 9:30AM 6:00PM

1601 A.D. Mims Rd, Ocoee FL 34761 EPISCOPAL CHURCH OF THE MESSIAH (407) 656-3097 241 N. Main, Winter Garden www.VBCOCOEE.com Services: 8, 9:30, & 11am, 7pm Sunday: 11AM & 6 PM www.churchofthemessiah.com Wednesday: 7 PM

Meets at West Orange HS 1625 Beulah Rd, Winter Garden 321-343-7741 Sundays: 10:30 AM www.stjohnspca.com

METHODIST

FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 125 N. Lakeview Ave Winter Garden Service Times 9:00 AM and 11:15 AM Phone – 407-656-1135 Web: fumcwg.org

NON-DEN

PURPOSE C 13640 W. Colo Winter Garden 407-654-9661 Fellowship 9:4

UNITED CHURCH 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

MIKE YOAKUM PASTOR

Foundation Academy High School

1333 E AST C ROWN P OINT R D .

O COEE , FL 34761

ORDER YOUR Matthew’s Hope is in need CUSTOM MADE of prepared PB&J and/or CHRISTMAS meat & cheese sandwiches.

GIFTS NOW!

LV14252

Retired Detective Michelle Grogan worked with Ocoee PD and several national organizations to solve a 2013 missing persons case. Published Aug. 28, 2025.

P: 407.656.1520 C: 407.758.3570 MYOAKUM407@AOL.COM

Matthew’s Hop

Realtor Matt Sutton dresses as Cookie Monster and passes out cookies to businesses in Winter Garden with the help of lender Barb Stewart.

Published Aug. 7, 2025.

• Custom Furnitu Barn Doors, and • Repaired, Refini Repurposed Wo • Gently Used Fur Household Item

- Friday, 10 AM Check out the custom Monday 4 PM or by appointment. made silent auction items Left: Jeff Fitzgerald was announced as the new Follow us at https://www.faceboo that will be available at executive director of Edgewood Children’s Ranch. Published Aug. 21, 2025. the Garden Party on Visit our Workshop Location at 611 Business Park

611 Business Park Blvd. #101, Winter Garden, FL 34787 (407) 905-9500 | MatthewsHopeMinistries.org

XNSP22179

407.905.9500 • 8am-4pm Mon - Fri • 8am

Want to see your listing here?

Call (407) 656-2121 or email AdvertiseNow@orangeobserver.com

449266-1

Dr. Gideon Logan, the medical director, Deauna Medaris, the nurse manager, and Jonathan Ortiz, a doctor of osteopathic medicine, were thrilled to welcome community members to the new HCA Florida West Orange Emergency.

Published Aug. 14, 2025.

12A

OrangeObserver.com

OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 1, 2026

Artist Jordan Emmitt created a new mural that transformed Westbrooke Elementary’s media center. Published Sept. 18, 2025.

Mayra Feliciano, from Dr. Phillips High School’s Air Force JROTC program, was recognized as the No. 1 cadet in the world. Published Sept. 18, 2025.

SEPTEMBER Andy Williams, a fifth-generation Windermere resident, and his mother, Lavina Williams, sit on the front porch of her home on Lake Down. All of the photos they are holding were taken on the same porch. Published Sept. 11, 2025.

Left: Thousands of West Orange residents honored the life and legacy of Charlie Kirk at a vigil held Saturday, Sept. 20, on the steps of Winter Garden City Hall. Published Sept. 25, 2025.

Southwest Orange’s celebrity horse, Tsaber, turned 38 this month, and locals celebrated him at a birthday party Sept. 13.

Published Sept. 4, 2025.

The West Orange Times & Observer celebrated its 120th anniversary with a party Sept. 11, 2025. Published Sept. 18, 2025.

Left: Windermere Mayor Jim O’Brien, Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings, Oakland Mayor Shane Taylor, Ocoee Mayor Rusty Johnson and Winter Garden Mayor John Rees shared their thoughts at the West Orange Chamber of Commerce’s State of the County Q&A. Published Sept. 25, 2025.

454546-1

LESS THAN $2/DAY

HUNDREDS OF GROUP EXERCISE CLASSES

ROPER YMCA 100 Windermere Rd Winter Garden, FL 34787 407-656-8816

DR. P. PHILLIPS YMCA 7000 Dr. Phillips Blvd Orlando, FL 32819 407-351-9417 DR

OrangeObserver.com

OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 1, 2026

13A

The West Orange Chamber of Commerce geared up for the fourth annual Stina D’Uva Tour de Chamber Community Bike Ride in Horizon West. Published Oct. 16, 2025.

Left: Southern Hill Farms celebrated 10 years of its Fall Festival with a corn maze that pays homage to owner David Hill’s baseball history. Published Oct. 23, 2025.

Scott Billue, founder and CEO of Matthew’s Hope, with friends David and Eileen Buckles at the nonprofit’s Mobsters & Money fundraiser. Published Oct. 2, 2025.

Left: Julia Merritt was one of two Orange County students to place at the Florida Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services’ fifth annual Florida Future Chef Competition. Published Oct. 30, 2025.

OCTOBER

Oakland Nature Preserve educator Jenifer Odom taught attendees about different species of snakes at ONP’s Nature Fest. Published Oct. 2, 2025.

Left: Windermere High School seniors enjoyed a morning of friendships and reminiscing during the Class of 2026’s Senior Sunrise. Published Oct. 2, 2025.

Thomas Lightbody | TK Photography

Make 2026 the year for unforgettable gatherings!

From weddings and family reunions to corporate retreats and special celebrations, Westgate River Ranch offers a one-of-a-kind ranch setting for any event.

16,500 sqft of Versatile Event Space Customized Group Activities From Lodge Rooms to Luxe Teepees

Right: Sleep in Heavenly Peace is dedicated to the betterment of children’s lives, and the Windermere Police Foundation supported that mission with a bed build Oct. 18. Published Oct. 9, 2025.

OrangeObserver.com

OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 1, 2026

It was a bittersweet goodbye as West Orange High Principal Matt Turner left to take on a new role with Orange County Public Schools.

Published Nov. 6, 2025.

Left: Kurt Gies, founder of Challenge 22, left, led the ninth annual ruck walk to support veterans.

Published Nov. 27, 2025.

NOVEMBER

Eight Waves founder Sarah Meyer celebrated the nonprofit’s successes at the 2025 Wavemaker Luncheon.

Published Nov. 6, 2025.

Left: Foundation for a Healthier West Orange representatives went all out for the West Orange Habitat for Humanity’s 2025 Rock the House event. Published Nov. 27, 2025.

Marching bands from throughout West Orange and Southwest Orange performed a wide variety of music in their shows at the 2025 Florida Bandmasters Association District 8 MPA, held Saturday, Nov. 1, at Boone High School, Orlando.

Published Nov. 13, 2025.

OPEN HOUSE SPRING 2026

FEBRUARY 7, 2026 AT 10:00 AM Get to know our faculty & staff Tour the campus Hear from current students

RSVP TODAY TO JOIN US! (407) 905-7737 • windermereprep.com

Increase the value of your home with natural gas and save money.

www.langd.org 407-656-2734 ext. 307

453242-1

At Lake Apopka Natural Gas, we’re helping families connect to affordable, reliable, and efficient natural gas, with appliances that pay dividends for years to come. Studies show a home with natural gas has a 6% greater resale value than an all-electric home.

OrangeObserver.com

OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 1, 2026

15A

Helena, Flavio, Gustavo and Thayna Dicanco were cozy together in their beach chairs at Water Spring Elementary’s Winter Drive-In. Published Dec. 11, 2025.

Left: Trey Hildebrant, Sarah Hildebrant, Jude Hildebrant, Bear Hildebrant, Maverick Hildebrant, Melody Rigdon and Tim Rigdon were all smiles at their first Light Up Winter Garden. The Hildebrants just moved to Winter Garden the day before the event. Published Dec. 11, 2025.

DECEMBER

Hunter Hyun loved playing in the glow-in-the-dark bubbles with his dad at Light Up Windermere. Published Dec. 4, 2025.

Longtime Disney entertainer Billy Flanigan hosts Christmas tree lots outside Windermere High School, with proceeds benefiting the school’s choir program. Published Dec. 18, 2025.

A quartet of West Orange and Southwest Orange students performed with the Macy’s Great American Marching Band on Thanksgiving Day. Published Dec. 4, 2025.

Right: Natalie Naak and her friend Aurora Matthews loved riding on Foundation Academy’s float in the 2025 Winter Garden Christmas Parade. Published Dec. 18, 2025.

Empowered to Create with Boldness ORLANDO’S PREMIERE PRIVATE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

FINE ARTS Creativity Inspired by The Creator

Experience Foundation Academy for Yourself Schedule a School Day Tour Today

Visit

.com

Building a Foundation for Life SINCE 1958 FoundationAcademy.net

16A

OrangeObserver.com

OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 1, 2026

1

2025

3

YEAR IN SPORTS

4

2

T

he sporting world is constantly changing.

Every year, we see

new coaches, players and teams emerge on their quests for victory. We see stars being born to take the places of the ones leaving for college. We see new records set, banners hung and hardware added to the trophy case.

For West Orange and Southwest Orange, 2025 was a year chock full of all of that — and more.

So, before we dive into the new year, let’s take one last look back to celebrate the 2025 Year in Sports.

1

The First Academy Royals baseball team began the 2025 high school season as the favorites to win the Class 2A, Region 2 championship, and the team exceeded its initial hopes. The team won its sixth consecutive district championship and a second consecutive regional championship.

But the history-making didn’t end there. The team brought home the second state championship in program history by defeating Trinity Christian Academy 7-2 May 21, 2025.

The record-producing season came under the guidance of firstyear head coach Alan Kunkel.

“We set the expectations and the standard of the program, (and) we wanted to focus on the ability to improve daily, not only physically but mentally and emotionally as well,” he said of the season.

TFA closed out its impressive season by graduating a class of eight seniors who served as some of the Royals’ top players.

2

In 2025, Windermere Prep’s soccer squads knew how to get it done. The Lakers’ girls team won the FHSAA Class 2A, District 6 title game, 4-1 over The First Academy, for the first time in school history. A day later, Windermere Prep’s boys team won the Class 2A, District 6 — its first in a decade. What’s more, the boys team also claimed the district championship with a 4-1 win over Foundation Academy.

“This is the fifth year we’ve reached the district finals, and before this season, we lost every single one,” Windermere Prep boys soccer coach Jonathan Griffiths said.

“It was nice to finally get over the line, because this has been something we’ve been building toward.

I have 11 seniors on this team, with

seven of them starting, and I’ve seen them grow and learn what they needed to do to be successful over the last couple of years.”

3

Dr. Phillips High’s boys basketball team was one of the many programs in the area to bring in a new coach for the 2025 season. But what set the Panthers apart from some of the other coaches selected was the team welcomed state championship head coach Ben Witherspoon back.

The former Panthers’ head coach left Dr. Phillips in 2022 and tested the waters on the collegiate level at the University of Central Florida before returning to where he coached high school ball for three seasons.

“Coach Witherspoon is well known in the Orlando basketball community,” Panthers Athletic Director Jason McDaniel said. “He brings a lot of opportunities for Dr. Phillips High to expand and grow our men’s basketball program. One thing that is vital in sports is community. Coach Witherspoon has the ability to bring our basketball community together and that is what we need at this time.”

5

4

As only a junior in high school, Windermere High swimmer Rylee Erisman broke the National High School 100-meter free record. She broke Olympic swimmer Gretchen Walsh’s five-year-old National High School record of 46.98 seconds. Erisman swam the 100-meter free in 46.73 seconds Saturday, Nov. 15, at Florida’s 4A State Championship.

Since then, she announced she will be reclassifying to the Class of 2026, graduating high school a year early and taking her talents to the University of California at Berkeley.

6

OrangeObserver.com

6

Foundation Academy football team welcomed new head coach Daniel “D.J.” White, a former Apopka High linebacker, at the beginning of the season.

“The vision for this team is very simple: We will work hard, play with passion and serve with purpose,” White said at the beginning of the season.

The first season under White came to a close in the semifinals of the SSAA 11-Man playoffs, and the team finished 10-3. The Lions’ loss to Mount Dora Christian Academy was its largest point differential since Aug. 16, 2024, when the team fell 42-17 to The Master’s Academy. The loss also marked the end of Foundation’s seven-game winning streak and the end of its season.

Lions senior quarterback Braydon Marks threw for 152 yards, and wide receiver Ben Ford picked up

7

17A

9

8 10 62 of those yards. Running back Sam Wood rushed for 45 yards and earned himself one touchdown.

7

Foundation Academy’s competitive cheer team once again showed up and showed out over its competition. The girls’ dynasty held strong, and the team earned its fourth FHSAA Class 1A Large Non-Tumbling State Championship. What made the award even more impressive was that two-thirds of the team was brand new to the sport and were not a part of Foundation’s 2024 voyage to winning a state title, a national championship and a world championship.

“This season has really just been incredible,” Foundation Academy’s co-coach Kristin Johnson said.

“Seeing the joy on their faces, tears streaming down their eyes and love

for (one another) after hitting zero at states is a memory I will never forget.”

8

Foundation Academy welcomed the public and donors to celebrate the ribbon cutting of the brand new, eight-lane track and bleacher expansion Friday, Oct. 1. Its celebration marked the beginning of a long-awaited dream becoming a reality. The new track and bleachers are the first projects that were completed in a larger facilities upgrade at the school. A new concession stand, restrooms and a press box also were in the works.

“Everything we do is to serve the needs of our students,” Foundation Academy Chief Operations Officer Robert East said. “A track isn’t just for track and field; it supports cross-country, PE classes

407-905-9965

and training for our entire athletic program.”

The expansion plan started in 2021, when the planning team laid out the rough draft for what was to come. With funds coming in Feburary 2025, the school got to work. With the upgraded track, Foundation was able to host its first Class 1A, District 4 crosscountry meet Wednesday, Nov. 5.

It marked an exciting new step for the school and the future to come.

9

Eric Lassiter served at the helm of Windermere High’s baseball program for all seven years of its existence and led the team to a Class 7A championship game, but to kick off the 2025 year, he stepped down. He left the program in good hands and handed it off to the Wolverines’ pitching coach Brian Adkins.

BR DENTAL 407-905-9965

“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 in his farewell letter.

10

Windermere Wildfire softball club was open for 17 years. In those years, the club reeled in three national titles, three state championships and more than 200 players who went on to the college level. Unfortunately in 2025, the club came to a close and said goodbye to that chapter of its life. George Paulson looked back at the softball club he founded and due to the landscape of the club and travel ball as a whole, he decided it was the best time for him to make an end to the team.

We’ll take the first step with you

www.drbrianramski.com

Direct Cremation $1120

www.drbrianramski.com

DentalImplants Implants *✳Sedation ✳*Dental SedationDentristy Dentistry * Pain Free Injections * Accepting New Patients ✳ Cosmetic Clear Braces ✳ Pain Free Injections * Serving✳West Orange County for 20 Years Accepting New Patients

plus container

213 S Dillard St., Suite 140 Winter Garden, FL 34787

Tues-Thurs: 8-12 & 1-5 Fri: 7-1 Call Today for Your Appointment!

310499-1 454535-1

✳ Dental Implants ✳ Sedation Dentistry ✳ Cosmetic Clear Braces ✳ Pain Free Injections Plan for the future. Enjoy the now.

447396-1

5

In the 2025 season, three local basketball teams made their way down to the state championship Final Four arena. On the girls side, Dr. Phillips’ girls basketball team pushed its way down to the state championship game for the fourth time in a row. The team won the state championship game the three years prior and wanted to attempt it again but fell short 45-42 to Winter Haven.

The Ocoee High girls basketball team might have fallen in the Final Four and not advanced to the state finals when it lost to the overall No. 1 seed, the Winter Haven Blue Devils, 65-41. However, the team made school history by winning its first regional championship and achieved the goal the team had set at the beginning of the season.

“At the start of the season, when we talked about our goals, making it to Lakeland was at the top of that list, and that’s what we did,” Ocoee head coach Marcus Spencer said.

“I gave them a vision; we even got shirts that say ‘Lakeland’ on it and for the first time in school history we’re here.”

On the boys side, Windermere High’s team pushed its way to day two of the tournament in Lakeland after winning the semifinal game 59-39 and secured the program’s first state title appearance. In the title game, the team unfortunately fell 68-36 to Columbus.

“They put in a lot of hard work; they bought into the idea of playing for each other,” Windermere High’s head coach Mark Griseck said. “It’s a great group; I’m sad to see the seniors go. … Ultimately, I’m just proud of the character of our guys, they’re great kids.”

OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 1, 2026

921 S. US Hwy 27, Minneola, FL One block north of Citrus Tower (352) 394-8228 I www.CremationChoicesfl.com Prices subject to change without notice.

Don’t let the unexpected catch you off guard.

Winter Garden’s ONLY family owned funeral home.

995

$

Including the alternative container. Call for details.

Exceptional - Not Expensive

(407) 614-8350 1132 E. Plant Street Winter Garden, FL 34787 www.winteroakfuneralhome.com LIC #F080822

Pre-plan your funeral needs.

Scan QR code or call us today.

407-877-6700

447391-1

Direct Cremation for

1148 East Plant Street | Winter Garden, FL 34787 collisoncareyhand.com

18A

OrangeObserver.com

THE WAYS

WE WERE

FROM THE WINTER GARDEN HERITAGE FOUNDATION

THROWBACK THURSDAY

1945: 80 years ago

Mrs. Hearn Ficquette was here from Texas for a visit with her parents-in-law.

1950: 75 years ago

FROM THE ARCHIVES A happy and healthy 2026 to all!

On this holiday, let’s visit the Woman’s Club of Ocoee, still operating at 4 N. Lakewood Ave. It held its charter meeting Jan. 17, 1924. As it celebrates its 102nd birthday, we herald this service organization’s century of community outreach.

According to past club reports, the group “was called upon for all kinds of services: a layette for a new baby, glasses for an elderly couple, bleachers for the school, everything from little Boy Scouts to City Fathers.”

Eva Sims of the Bluford Sims lineage donated two lots in town where the clubhouse was constructed with Works Progress Administration funds in 1936. Furnishings were purchased by members, each lady pledging to buy one chair.

The archive of the Winter Garden Heritage Foundation houses the history of Ocoee and is available to all researchers. Contact the center at museum@wghf.org.

Lakeview High School seniors impressed the faculty, administration and students with their fine record made during the Florida 12th-Grade Testing Program sponsored by the University of Florida.

Principal Robert L. Moore said one fourth of the class of 1966 scored higher than 400, with the maximum of 495 points.

Calvary Baptist Church planned a $125,000 addition to its church sanctuary on Dillard Street. Plans called for the auditorium to seat 600, according to Pastor Reynold Lemp.

Bill Blaine, graduate and assistant teacher of fine arts at the University of Syracuse, came home for Christmas bringing new paintings and etchings for the Webb Gallery Christmas show in Winter Park.

to become its vicar. He served as vicar for two missions in Belle Glade and Pahokee and was dean of the West Palm Beach Deanery.

1970: 55 years ago

1995: 30 years ago

The Rev. Arthur L. Dasher accepted a call to the Episcopal Church of the Messiah in Winter Garden

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.

Palm Lake Elementary students shared their resolutions for 1996.

In Mrs. Poelker’s third-grade class, Daniel McGarigal resolved to stop fighting with his brother; David Howe promised to re-

cycle and take shorter showers; Kaley Elkins said she would put away her toys after playing with them; Mikana Maeda vowed to help people stop using weapons because all around the world lots of children and people get injured; Tehotu Batani wants to help people stop using drugs; and Allyson Emmer resolved to stop arguing with her sister and help take care of her brother. In

Mrs. Lesh’s fourth-grade class, Charlotte Manley vowed to find ways to get places without using so much rubber; Jessica Stillwell promised to turn off her radio when leaving her room; Stephanie Johnson vowed to stop her constant talking; Luis Ayuso wanted to learn to save money; and Wayne Clemens resolved to improve his handwriting.

celebrity cipher

crossword DOUBLE-BOOKING by Sam Brody, edited by Jared Goudsmit starred clues’ answers

46 Passed along, like

125 Word after “funny” or

information

“wish”

50 Throat malady, briefly

126 Workout unit

52 Sleeve ink, for short

127 Joining, like oxen

55 “... you get the idea”

128 Ready to play, like a harp (Abbr.)

129 Bugs that farm aphids

56 Tiff

130 Podcast interruptions

58 Removed, as from a bank

131 Gently strokes

account

132 Hearty, soupy meals

62 Has a chat with

DOWN

ACROSS 1 Cliff projection 6 Carded

10 Campfire residue 13 “I call it!”

17 Cold and distant 18 “Hold your horses!”

20 Corp. big shot 21 Admired figure

2 Jazz great Fitzgerald

69 Kenyan’s neighbor

3 It’s one letter off from

70 Bring in, like moola

“sour,” aptly

72 Hellish being

4 Suddenly have no

73 Altar vow

thoughts

74 Chinese search engine

5 Pair in Buffalo?

company

6 Darjeeling’s country

77 Sums

7 Dusk’s counterpart

80 A haiku contains 17

8 Endorse digitally

82 Salad with bacon and

9 Mo. when Kwanzaa starts

eggs

10 Land measurement

84 Putting up

11 Navy guy

86 Golden State sch. that

12 ___ pink

Jack Black attended

13 Coke Zero alternative

87 Really labor

14 ___ gossip (some small

88 Short jump

talk)

91 Tidies, like hedges

15 Tapioca pearls

93 Persuaded

16 Word after “grand” or

96 Is under the weather

“poetry”

98 Infamous cow owner in

18 Ascended slowly

Chicago history

19 Energy point in yoga

100 NNW’s opposite

23 Garlicky spreads

101 Berate profanely

29 Some fancy shoes

103 Shouted

30 ___ Men (“Who Let the

107 Stopped dreaming

105 Burn reliever

Dogs Out” band)

108 Animals such as the

22 *Lunch with three slices of bread

36 Blunders

24 Snitch

110 Nerve cell part

37 Broad bean

25 “Luther” star Idris

111 Tenant’s payment

38 Country once called

26 Noble below a marquess

113 Little mischief-makers

Persia

115 Leave out

40 Qatari leader

117 Sheet of glass

41 Writer/director Nora

118 Backstage workers

42 Going out with

119 Contributes

43 Wipe away

121 Prohibition ___

44 PDF, e.g.

123 Alley-___

61 “Decorates” on Halloween 92 Saxes lower than altos

35 “Stat!”

63 Gives an address

94 Pigeon’s call

37 “Grand” end

65 Bubble bath spot

95 ___ Cowboys (NFL team)

39 *It’s said the moon is

67 “Look at her moving,

97 Extensive

made of it

baby, she’s the ___” (Chap-

99 *Short cnn.com video,

44 *Aspect of the Force that pell Roan lyric)

e.g.

Darth Vader uses

68 *Window-closing button

102 *Bit of monthly mail

46 Domain

71 *What supports lying

104 Informal

47 Little Simz or Lauryn Hill people?

48 Lab eggs

74 Steamed bun

49 Group that’s part of a

75 “Spill the ___!”

106 Landform akin to a butte 32 ___ Vegas Aces 34 “Been there” 108 Eyelid afflictions

larger group, in math

76 Teeny

109 Pointed remarks

51 Internet destination

78 Down in the dumps

112 “The Simpsons” saxo-

53 ___ nut (source of some

79 Moola dispensers

phonist

81 Rainbow’s shape

114 “Gee whiz!”

83 Serve a prison sentence

116 Pet welfare org.

27 Sweet stuff on a birthday butter) 54 Walking sticks candle 28 Attention-getting sound 30 Second-string group 31 Hawaiian greeting 33 Sneaker brand, or a

66 Sound like a real ass?

68 Really bothers

goddess

57 Kitchen container’s cover 85 Fountain of ___ (mythical 120 Figure skating maneuver 59 Uncooked

spring)

121 Shade tree

60 Cool color named after

89 Brit’s “Goodness me!”

122 College offering, or

a flower

90 Trucker’s hitch, e.g.

what follows each half of the

“C AFCXM AFDA AJ HDMZ VJHZAFCXI DWCYZ, CXVAZDN JL JX D GDIZ, CV DX FJXJODRWZ ADVM. DXN CA ASOXV HZ JX.”

64 Take effect

1 “Tatted” fabric

©2026 Universal Uclick

By Luis Campos Celebrity Cipher cryptograms are created from quotations by famous people, past and present.

Each letter in the cipher stands for another.

HCMZ XCTFJWV

“ITG NTOXHTRM LT AWVPL WP XPLVGX EWPRNJWAX TI SVNKWE VOWUXGM YVLF BKNL NFXXLN TI YTGRN – LFWL’N OWUVJWE.”

OTN RXI

“EPYPGGPV HW EBX MHGWE RZLIF ULSX PM L 365 ULSX RPPF. VGHEX L SPPA PIX.” WHISXG RGLA ULHWZXT Puzzle Three Clue: Y equals M

1965: 60 years ago

Puzzle Two Clue: H equals B

Three Cub Scout dens and their sponsors met at the Fellowship Hall of the Methodist church for a Christmas party. Johnny Rodgers was awarded the Webelos badge, and Jesse Waller Jr. was awarded a silver arrow.

Editorial view: “The crossing at the corner of Plant and Main streets is very dangerous, and should the owner of a car kill a child or a grown person at this corner for failure to blow his horn, he would be guilty of murder. Four miles an hour in passing through the streets is fast enough.”

DEC. 28, 1995 It once was common practice for local businesses to take out small advertisements in The West Orange Times and its predecessors to wish shoppers, customers and residents a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year, and 1995 was no exception.

Ushering in the new year with best wishes, peace, blessings, joy and good luck were many area establishments, many of them still in business today: Stevens Legal Service, Glenn Joiner & Son, Car Store, Hatley Pest Control, Jowers Batteries, Trophies Unlimited, Modern Stationery, American Phoenix Corporation, Bryan’s Insurance Agency, DJ’s Auto Sales, George McClellan, Hudson Tire & Service Inc., Credit Car Center, ERA Orange World Realty, Suzi Karr Realty, A First Class Travel Services, H&R Block, Bray Hardware, Auto Electric, Clark Tire & Automotive, L&J Transmission, Traywick’s Garage, Times Printing, Alderman Marine, Fulmer Cleaners, B&S Plumbing, Crawford Tire Service, C. Wayne Efurd and Associates Inc., Ton’s Jewelry, Palm Tree Properties, Bowers Furniture & Appliance Inc. and The Medicine Shoppe.

Puzzle Two Clue: S equals U

W EST O RANG E HISTO RY

OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 1, 2026

© 2026 NEA, Inc.

sudoku

Complete the grid so that every row, column and 3x3 box contains every digit from 1 to 9 inclusively.

Ugly Duckling 109 ___ ghanoush

45 Paperless library offering 124 “Stay” K-pop band

©2026 Andrews McMeel Syndicate

01-01-26

Made for where you live. Here!

THURSDAY, JANUARY 1, 2025

RED PAGES INFORMATION & RATES: 407-656-2121

Announcements

redpages@orangeobserver.com • orangeobserver.com/redpages

Merchandise Wanted

DEADLINES: Classifieds - Friday at Noon

454580

13178 W. Colonial Dr. Winter Garden

Service Directory - Friday at 10AM • PAYMENT: Cash, Check or Credit Card Observer Media Group reserves the right to classify and edit copy, or to reject or cancel an

NOW PURCHASING

SCRAP BATTERIES

SELL YOUR 407-656-3495 STUFF FAST!

Advertise as low as $17.50 per week!

©2026 NEA,Inc. Inc. ©2025 NEA,

©2026 UniversalUclick Uclick ©2025 Universal

Largest Transmission & Total Car Care Company Puzzle Three Solution: Puzzle Three Solution: • Transmission • Clutches • CV Axles • Foreign & Domestic

407-656-2121

1150 E Semoran Blvd. Ste. B Apopka, FL, 32703

407-880-9300

alltransmissionworld.com

Auto Service

1045 S. VINELAND ROAD WINTER GARDEN www.traywicks.com

GARAGE

ALLTRANSMISSIONWORLD

OIL CHANGES

Central Florida’s Oldest & Largest Transmission & Total Car Care Company

COMPLETE AUTO REPAIR & SERVICE

PREMIUM AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE IN WINTER GARDEN, FL

Central Florida’s Oldest & or service in the Observer Largest Transmission & Total Car Care Co Advertise your business

RED PAGES

• Transmission • Clutches • CV Axles CALL TODAY • Foreign & Domestic 407-656-2121

1150 E Semoran Blvd. Ste. B Apopka, FL, 32703 Advertise your business 407-880-9300 or service in the Observer

alltransmissionworld.com

Professional Services RED PAGES

ATW

Your Trusted Paver Company

ALLTRANSMISSIONWOR

Central Florida’s Oldest & Largest Transmission & Total Car Care Co

Get A FREE Estimate

407.656.1817

407-877-7600 407-880-9300

454593

alltransmissionworld.com alltransmissionworld.com

1150 E407-844-8800 Semoran Blvd. Ste. B Apopka, FL, 32703

407-880-9300

Bringing quality, craftsmanship and exceptional service to every project. alltransmissionworld.com

453975

115012939 E Semoran Blvd.Dr, Ste. B W. Colonial Apopka, FL, 32703 Winter Garden, FL 34787 454598

CALL US TODAY!

ALLTRANSMISSIONWOR

Accounting

Enhance your outdoor space with high quality paver solutions for driveways, patios, pool decks and more.

CUSTOMERS REVIEWS

454602

MONEY SAVING SOLUTIONS

YourObserver.com/RedPages

• Transmission • Clutches • CV Axles • Foreign & Domestic

• Transmission • Clutches • CV Axles • Foreign & Domestic SCHEDULE APPOINTMENT

ATW

CALL 941-955-4888

CALL TODAY 407-656-2121

ATW

TRAYWICKS

We’ll SWEEP We’ll SWEEP

GARAGE SALE

FIND BUYERS ALLTRANSMISSIONWORLD & SELLERS HERE! Central Florida’s Oldest & This week’s Celebrity Cipher answers This week’s Celebrity Cipher answers

Auto Service

13178 W. Colonial Dr. Winter Garden

349888

407-656-3495

ATW

“Tomorrow is the first blank “In real there names page of alife, 365 pageare book.

Write surprise athat good one.” us because they don’t seem Singer to suit the Bradperson Paisley at all.”

Krzysztof Kieslowski

407-656-3495

SCRAP BATTERIES

Thisweek’s week’sSudoku Sudokuanswers answers This

Puzzle Two Solution: Puzzle Two Solution: “For somebody to paint an “I like landscape this life. I like it when it’s entire of visual hard ... you don’t get theof sweet imagery with just sheets part without bitter.” words – that’sthe magical.”

Holly MosNear Def

SCRAP BATTERIES

NOW PURCHASING

611 Business Park Blvd. #101 Winter Garden, FL 34787 (407) 905-9500 MatthewsHopeMinistries.org

Puzzle One Solution: Puzzle “I think One that Solution: to make “Art is everywhere you look something alive, instead of on a for it; hail the twinkling stars page, is an honorable task.

And theyme areon.”

God’s Mike careless itfor turns Nichols splatters.”

El Greco

NOW PURCHASING

454578

Thisweek’s week’sCrossword Crosswordanswers answers This

You’reonly onlycheating cheating yourself. yourself.

You’re

peekers’ place peekers’

occupation, or residential rental property.

Notice: All real estate advertised herein is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation, or discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin, or intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised are available on an equal opportunity basis.

Matthew’s Hope is looking for volunteers to provide prepared lunch meals and side dishes to be delivered on Tuesday and Thursday mornings from 7AM to 10:30AM.

454582

*All ads are subject to the approval of the Publisher. *It is the responsibility of the party placing any ad for publication in the Observer Media Group to meet all applicable legal requirements in connection with the ad such as compliance

13178 W. Colonial Dr. Winter Garden

FIRE TECH

EXTINGUISHER

SERVICE

1207 North Lakewood Avenue Ocoee, FL 34761

Cell 407-466-4738 Tel 407-654-2395

• Bridgestone • Michelin • Toyo • BFG Tires

TFN

www.Firetechextinguisher.com

Find anything in the RED PAGES | 407-656-2121

GROW

YOUR BUSINESS

TFN

454591

Advertise as low as $30 per week.

“Your Complete Service Center” 10 West Story Rd., Winter Garden, FL 34787 REG# MV-01095

CREATE BUZZ!

Advertise your business in the Red Pages.

Call 407-656-2121

TFN

Phone 407-656-6646 Richard Hudson • Regie Hudson

454600

Call to reserve your ad space 407-656-2121

454595

Danny Motes

20A

OrangeObserver.com

OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 1, 2026

Give A Gift

Today

Double The IMPACT With A Matching Fund Gift Give a gift today and double the impact with a matching gift. Step into our homes at Edgewood Children’s Ranch, where six children per home find safety, belonging, and new beginnings.

Loving houseparents live in each home, guiding and encouraging each child every day. Your gift provides meals, clothing, mentorship, private-school education, and faith-building devotions. You can fund a day of care, a week of routines, a month of growth, a year of transformation, or even a single child’s journey to healing and a hopeful future. The Lewis Family will provide a matching gift. Every dollar you donate from now through December 31, 2025, will be matched up to $100,000. Give today to impact a child’s tomorrow!

To Give A Gift Online Scan The QR Code or Visit

EdgewoodRanch.com Call 407-295-2464 Ext. 7

Mailing Address: Edgewood Children’s Ranch 1451 Edgewood Ranch Road Orlando, FL 32835