SOUTHWEST ORANGE
Supporting
CHILI COOKOFF HEATS UP THIS WEEKEND
‘The Stallion’ Community honors beloved coach
Savannah Emery, 14, was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia, an aggressive blood cancer. To raise funds to help children like her, her family is hosting a 5K. STORY ON PAGE 4A.
Karaoke helps pass time at local shelter
Those staying warm at Matthew’s Hope Ministries’ emergency shelter enjoyed taking the stage in song. SEE PAGE 8A.
Ocoee resident and Little League coach Pete Armstrong died Saturday, Jan. 24. His legacy lives on through former players and local coaches. SEE PAGE 9A.
BRAINF D
MOTOWN SOUND
In honor of Black History Month, we take a look at Motown, its history and the lasting impact it has had on American Music. SEE PAGE 11A.
If you’re still needing to thaw out from last weekend’s cold snap, Legacy Events for Education’s fifth annual Central Florida Chili Cookoff is the place to be. This year’s event takes place from noon to 4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 7, in the Hamlin Green Space, 14111 Shoreside Way, Winter Garden. Local restaurants and chefs of all varieties will provide sample chilis. Enjoy a bite from food trucks and dessert vendors while enjoying live entertainment, adult and family-friendly refreshments, as well as a Kids Zone play area. Adult chili-tasting wristbands are $10; kids chili-tasting and Kids Zone wristbands are $5. To purchase, visit bit.ly/4aujlDO. Legacy Events for Education is a 501c3 nonprofit. Its programs include the Leave a Legacy and Teacher Nominated scholarships and its Legacy Academy. The scholarship programs recognize students for exceptional community volunteerism both on and off campus, and scholarships are awarded to students who have performed hundreds of volunteer hours during high school. Since 2019, Legacy has awarded more than 100 scholarships totaling $100,000. For more information, visit legacyeventsfored.org/aboutus.
HOME STATE TO CELEBRATE ANNIVERSARY
West Orange doesn’t have its own Renaissance Faire,
Savannah Emery’s cancer journey has inspired her and her family to organize a 5K to support other children facing cancer.
5FAST
1
Filigree Coffee opens new location
Filigree Coffee opened its own coffee shop in Horizon West Friday, Jan. 23. The shop is open daily from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. at 16016 New Independence Parkway, Suite 110, Winter Garden, next to Home State Brewing Co. It’s only a few feet away from its previous location. It has expanded seating areas and new menu items. The shop also features original artwork created by “Bob’s Burgers” illustrator Jay Howell.
cortados, americanos, cold brews, matcha lattes, chais, hot chocolates and more.
2
Olympian arrested in Winter Garden
Olympian Sha’Carri Richardson, 25, was arrested Thursday, Jan. 29, in Orange County.
The 2024 Paris Olympic gold medalist was booked for dangerous excessive speeding, which is considered driving faster than 100 mph.
An Orange County Sheriff’s Office traffic enforcement deputy on patrol pulled over Richardson, who was traveling 104 mph on State Road 429 near Stoneybrook Parkway and dangerously tailgating and traveling across lanes of travel to pass other motorists, according to the Orange County Sheriff’s Office.
Bond was $500, and she has bonded out, according to the Sheriff’s Office.
Bodycam footage of Richardson’s arrest went viral on X.
Dangerous excessive speeding is a second-degree misdemeanor with a maximum penalty of up to 60 days in jail, six months probation and a $500 fine.
3
Torchy’s Tacos has closed in Winter Garden
Torchy’s Tacos in Winter Garden permanently closed its doors Tuesday, Feb. 3.
It was located at 3310 Daniels Road, Suite 102, Winter Garden
Torchy’s Tacos is a Tex-Mex chain offering a variety of dishes, including fajitas, burritos, salad bowls, tacos, street corn, quesadillas and more.
The restaurant chain also offers alcoholic beverages, such as margaritas, sangrias, beers and wines.
Torchy’s Tacos opened in Winter Garden in 2024, and two years later, it closed due to the location’s performance.
The Altamonte Springs location also closed. A third, located on
4
Winter Garden to host grand opening of Zanders Park
People are invited to celebrate the grand opening of Zanders Park’s new pickleball courts, playground and renovated basketball court.
The grand opening will be from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 7, at 362 11th St., Winter Garden.
The festivities include free pickleball lessons; free hot dogs, hamburgers and soft drinks; and family-friendly music.
Parking is limited, as Zanders Park is a neighborhood park.
For more information, call Winter Garden Parks and Recreation at (407) 656-4155.
5Horizon West Hospital celebrates fifth anniversary
Orlando Health Horizon West Hospital staff celebrated the hospital’s fifth anniversary Friday, Jan. 30.
Since opening its doors in 2021, the hospital has added specialized health care services, earned patient quality accolades and built strong community partners.
The hospital recognized its major accomplishments since its opening including building a cardiac catheterization lab program; becoming a Certified Primary Stroke Center; expanding orthopedic care and earning Joint Commission certification for disease-specific care regarding hip, knee and shoulder replacement; Leapfrog straight ‘A’ grades for three consecutive semesters; opening new outpatient services in the Davenport area with primary care, cardiology and general surgery clinics; and stationing a dedicated pediatric critical care transport to Orlando Health Emergency Room — Reunion Village.
“Our team has accomplished so much in the last five years, and I’m really excited for what’s still to come,” said Joe Khayat, Orlando Health vice president and president of Orlando Health Horizon West Hospital, in a news release. “As this area grows, so does our hospital, so we are very intentional about tailoring new services to what is
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:
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42 9
Photo by Michael Eng
Blueberries stay protected under a layer of ice from frigid weather Sunday, Feb. 1, at Beck Brothers Blueberries in Horizon West.
File photo
Filigree Coffee is only a few feet away from its previous location.
CHILLIN’ & SWILLIN’
With the temperatures dropping quickly and doors opening 30 minutes early, a line stretched down the block outside Windermere Town Hall for entry to the 2026 Windermere Wine & Dine, held Saturday, Jan. 31.
Attendees braved the cold and windy weather to enjoy samples of wine and food from various restaurants and vendors set up throughout Town Square Park.
Chris Gabriel said he loves attending Windermere Wine & Dine each year.
“We are big supporters of Windermere,” he said. “You have to come out and support, support, support.”
Proceeds from the event went to the West Orange Foundation and the Windermere Legacy Fund. — LIZ RAMOS
Shooting ends in one dead, one hospitalized
Orange County Sheriff’s Office deputies discovered Richard Stoner, 67, deceased inside his home at 14255 Sonco Ave., Windermere.
OBSERVER STAFF
A domestic violence incident ended in one death and one hospitalization last week.
Dozens of Orange County Sheriff’s Office deputies descended on the Summerport community at about 2:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 27, after reports of a domestic-related shooting incident in the Horizon West community.
When deputies arrived, they discovered a woman on the sidewalk who had been shot. That woman was taken to a nearby hospital with life-threatening injuries. She is in stable condition.
The suspect, Richard Stoner, 67, had barricaded himself inside the home at 14255 Sonco Ave., Windermere. According to Orange County Property Appraiser records, Stoner bought the home in July 2023. Patricia Arruda also is listed as an owner.
It is not clear whether the two were married.
Deputies closed a portion of the Summerport neighborhood on Sonco Avenue and Bluebird Park Road because of the ongoing incident.
Dozens of officers descended on the scene, including several SWAT vehicles, drones and a helicopter. Residents were not allowed to leave their homes, and the entire area was shut down.
The incident also affected nearby Keene’s Crossing Elementary School, which was about to dismiss students when the incident began. Michael Ollendorff, Orange County Public Schools public information officer, said Keene’s Crossing Elementary was placed on a secure status, which means students are inside the building and doors are locked. Students slowly were released to their parents. Ollendorff said
Photo by Megan Bruinsma
A portion of the Summerport community was roped off for hours while the Orange County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
Lauren Foertsch and Gingers Baking Company owner Mandy Gay offered sweet treats.
Left: Chris Gabriel and David Freeman love attending Windermere Wine & Dine. “We are big supporters of Windermere,” Gabriel said.
Chef Andy Rapharel with Big Boards Catering offered samples of bloody Mary deviled eggs with pepperoni garnish with saffron and bacon.
CT Allen and Pam Martini helped funnel guests through Windermere Town Hall to receive their wine glasses and wooden trays.
Zach and Andi Stoumbos have only missed one Windermere Wine & Dine in the event’s history. “We love the people and the purpose of the funds,” Zach Stoumbos said.
Sean Ghannam provided live music.
Bill Steffes accepted a sample of Eterna by Santa Margherita from AJ Sathan with Republic National Distributing.
Beating leukemia — one step at a
IF YOU GO
SAVANNAH’S
5K WALK/ RUN/ROLL
WHEN: 8 to 10
a.m. Saturday, Feb. 21
WHERE: Waterleigh Amenity Field, 16150 Pebble Bluff Loop, Winter Garden
MORE THAN A
5K: One Blood bus will be available onsite for blood donations, swabbing also will be available. Unable to go to the event?
Text Swab4Savy to 61474 to receive a swab kit at home.
COST: $25
REGISTER: tinyurl. com/3tysxwtj INFORMATION: bit.ly/4kfdkON
Waterleigh teenager Savannah Emery was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia in October 2025, the same day her brother celebrated his birthday.
It all began with a cyst. What she didn’t know is this cyst would be the reason her leukemia was found.
The 14-year-old began her freshman year at Horizon High School in August and was getting ready to try out for her school’s volleyball team.
She found a cyst under her arm and went to the doctor to get it drained to alleviate the pain for tryouts.
However, because her younger sister has a blood disorder, the doctor ordered a blood test — just to ensure nothing else was going on.
That’s how her pediatrician discovered cancer in her blood and bone marrow.
“She had no symptoms,” Cherrie Emery, Savannah’s mother said. If it weren’t for that cyst, she could be living with cancer without even knowing it.
According to the Rally Foundation, there are only about 500 acute myeloid leukemia cases in children per year in the United States.
She was immediately admitted to the hospital and had surgery a few days later.
Since her diagnosis, she has spent more time at the hospital than at home.
“I’m trying to focus on getting better more than being upset about it, ‘cause it’s no one’s fault,” Savannah said. “It’s not my fault. It’s not my mom’s fault, not the doctor’s fault… It happens to people.”
Knowing everything she has been through since her diagnosis, Savannah and her family want to help other children with leukemia with Savannah’s 5K Walk/Run/Roll Saturday, Feb. 21, at Waterleigh Amenity Field.
HOME AWAY FROM HOME
Because of her severe diagnosis, she was admitted to Orlando Health Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children, where she spends most of her days.
To make her feel at home, family, friends, nurses and doctors decorated the walls in her room for each and
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time
every holiday spent in there, leaving sweet and encouraging messages to remind her she is stronger than the leukemia.
“We just try to fill it up so it’s not just hospital walls, you know?” Cherrie Emery said. “We’ve decked (the room) out for Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year, and now, for Valentine’s Day.”
And while she spends most of her time in the hospital room, she still completes school work daily.
She calls her friends on a daily basis.
She plays Roblox. She visits Sephora and Ulta to buy makeup.
She paints.
She does all the things a regular teenager does.
And more than just living a normal life, she created new lifelong friends and learned lessons for a lifetime.
“I took things for granted, like spending time with family, friends, school,” Savannah said. “I hear someone say, ‘I hate going to school,’ and I’m like, ‘I can’t even go to school,’ but it’s like, at one point, I was saying that too … You need to appreciate things more because it can be taken away in a second.”
She said accepting her diagnosis was difficult, but she realized nothing was really changing.
“None of my friends changed because of hair (loss),” she said. “Because friendships aren’t made on how you look or on whatever you’re going through. They should support you, not judge you. It’s something ... that didn’t change how I acted, it just changed how I looked, which shouldn’t matter anyway.”
RUN, WALK AND ROLL FOR LEUKEMIA
Savannah and her family are very loved in their community.
When her neighbors found out she was diagnosed with leukemia, they reached out to Cherrie Emery and offered to do a 5K in Savannah’s honor; something they all partake in often.
By raising money through a 5K, they hope to be able to help other children going through the same thing.
During her stay in the hospital, Savannah saw multiple children come and go.
She’s made it her mission to give
gifts to them, helping them feel at home, just like others helped her.
She began questioning how she could raise more funds beyond just the 5K and decided to sell her own artwork at the event.
“We do a lot of artwork, like the painting, the diamond art, that’s what we do to pass a lot of time,” Cherrie Emery said. “So we have like 25 pieces because what else is there to do, you know? And so we’re gonna auction that. All those proceeds also will come back. So, hopefully, whether it’s money that comes back or is somebody donating blood, it’s something.”
While people might think the 5K is to help Savannah’s treatment, it’s actually to help all the children who come after her.
“We were given so much, and she fought so hard, and that’s the only way we can think of to say thank you,” Cherrie Emery said.
Savannah underwent her last chemo treatment Thursday, Jan. 29, and now is in “deep remission.”
Savannah’s story will serve as a teaching moment for many attendees, by having them learn the different types of leukemia and how they can help.
She said she hopes this 5K is able to educate people and inspire them to donate blood.
One Blood will be at the race to take blood donations and National Marrow Donor Program will be there to take cheek swabs to match attendees with patients in need of bone marrow transplants.
There also will be a DJ, food and refreshments from different local vendors, — including Starbucks and Kelly’s Ice Cream — mental health support and resources, interactive art and more.
Savannah is the only one that will really know what leukemia felt like, but others can help by becoming educated, swabbing and donating blood.
“She’s our stallion,” her mom said. “Even before (getting diagnosed) we used to call her ‘The Stallion.’ She got sick and then she was solid. She recovers quickly.”
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WEST ORANGE TIMES
LETICIA SILVA STAFF WRITER
Waffles, a pet therapist, visited with Savannah Emery.
Savannah Emery’s door was decorated for Valentine’s Day and to celebrate the completion of her last round of chemotherapy.
Courtesy photos
Savannah Emery was visited by family during Christmas.
Photo by Leticia Silva
An answered prayer
The West Orange Dream Center’s new executive director had prayed for a decade to return to doing what she loved.
JUSTICE COVERT
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Julia Martinez spent the past 10 years in the luxury automotive industry, praying for an opportunity to return to faith-based, nonprofit work.
In January, her prayers were answered.
Martinez joined the West Orange Dream Center as its new executive director Monday, Jan. 5. She brings more than 20 years of experience carrying out missions in the Dominican Republic before she settled in the United States to attain financial stability and put her two children through college.
“I just fell into the automotive industry,” Martinez said. “But the whole time I was there, I was really just praying, ‘I wish I could go back and do what I love.’”
In her 20 years of mission work, 16 were spent in La Vega, Dominican Republic. There, she watched children grow into young adults who still text her to this day.
“Now they’re married, got jobs and it’s just good to see,” Martinez said.
Martinez said she helped run camps, retreats and weekly one-onone sessions to teach the kids character and biblical concepts. She also provided school supplies and, during Christmastime, brought toys for the families.
“I’m here to care about your life and how you see life,” Martinez told the children in La Vega. “There’s a way to look at life that is different.”
Now, Martinez hopes to bring that same enthusiasm to the executive director position at the West Orange Dream Center, which opened in 2021 in Winter Garden.
The West Orange Dream Center provides the community with afterschool programs and resources such as food, education and employment support — all while instilling biblical principles.
Compared to when she was working alongside children in the Dominican Republic, she sees her new job as
a more managerial role, making sure she puts people in the right position to succeed.
“I would love to be the one in the neighborhood, creating little classes and talking to little girls, but I think my job is to find people that want to do that and back them and give them a place to do it,” Martinez said.
Martinez, who worked as a business development manager in the automotive industry, said she applies leadership methods learned from being a mother and her faith.
“I am a Christian first, and my faith affects everything I do,” Martinez said. “I would hire not because you knew the skill; I would hire a person.”
Martinez said she sees Winter Garden as a diverse community experiencing significant growth but also with areas of need similar to those she saw in La Vega. To better support the center, Martinez said she will need to reach out to the “players” in the area.
“We’re all players, but we’re on the same team,” Martinez said. “The businessmen, the religious organizations and the government. So I’m talking to all of them. How can we be a good neighbor?”
From speaking with the president of Publix about potential backing to reaching out to government officials to help residents learn how to contact the Social Security Administration, Martinez said she’s contacting each section of the community to have the dream center serve as an “axis point.”
Learning from her time in La Vega, Martinez said she now knows developing strong relationships takes time.
“Let me tell you, the kids were rough at first. I mean, I’d get bit, I’d get hit, I’d get everything,” Martinez said.
“And when I had to leave, it was just horrible, right? And (the kids) are like, ‘How can you leave?’”
She learned the power of one-onone, intimate conversations. Early in her career, she said she would be “too fast” at establishing strong relationships. Now, she’s open to a slower approach, such as meeting with five people for coffee once per week for a
couple of months to “just get to know them and their life and not ask them for anything.”
Looking into establishing new programs, the ones that pique Martinez’s interest the most, she said, are those that help older teens and young adults in the community learn job skills. She wants to introduce them to trades.
Still in the early stages, the West Orange Dream Center is developing a program that offers participants the chance to learn skills through virtual reality, Martinez said. By wearing a VR headset, a user could simulate completing a job, such as a technician, she said.
But ultimately, Martinez said she wants to make sure older teens and young adults are aware of their options outside of just enrolling in college.
In terms of the challenges moving forward, Martinez said building trust would take time.
Her first time out in Winter Garden with the center yielded inspiring results.
Martinez was handing out supplies to people already involved in the center when a lady walked up from the street. Martinez asked for her name and had a conversation. After wrapping up and getting in the car to leave, Martinez’s coworker from the neighborhood told her she was surprised the lady had given her real name — something she noted was a rarity, Martinez said.
“I didn’t have an agenda,” Martinez said. “I was just being friendly.”
Boys & Girls Club to open Winter Garden branch in August
After two years of construction, the Boys & Girls Club’s new branch will open in August at 459 Ninth St., Winter Garden.
LETICIA SILVA STAFF WRITER
Nearly two years after the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida broke ground on the new Winter Garden branch, the organization anxiously awaits August for construction to be complete.
The $5.5 million project broke ground in 2024 on Ninth Street. The Orange County Board of County Commission approved a funding agreement in the amount of $440,000 during its meeting Tuesday, Jan. 13, to support the new branch.
The branch will provide a new facility and amenities to the West Orange Boys & Girls Club, which has outgrown its current space at the West Orange Recreation Center.
Boys & Girls Club Service Director Shamel Akins said the new location will be able to service more than 220 youth, more than five times the amount of children they are able to serve currently.
The 20,000-square-foot project will include both a youth center and a teen center.
“Instead of having one space where we’re able to do culinary once a month, we’ll be able to do culinary programs two to three times throughout the week,” Akins said. And culinary programs aren’t the only ones expanding.
Arts and crafts, digital literacy, STEM learning, sports and more all will be practiced more often at this new location.
“We will have a room with six to seven video game stations around the classroom — from arcade games to remote gaming to Wiis and things like that,” Akins said. “Everything that we are going to offer is going to be brand new to our kids… And the
biggest takeaway from this is our kids are going to be able to say they have their own Boys & Girls Club that’s their safe space.”
With this new location, each age group, from kindergartners to seniors in high school, will have their own rooms, which means there will be around 15 to 20 rooms in the new facility.
Akins said children also will have access to a dance studio, music studio, full kitchen, tech lab and a full arts-and-crafts space.
“They’ll be able to create their own T-shirts and their own websites,” Akins said with excitement. “I’m excited about them investing in their future and exposing them to some of the awesome things that they can do in the future.”
The kids are just as excited as Akins for the new location to open.
“When we go to other facilities that have some of the things that the new facility will have, they’re always amazed,” Akins said. “They’re always looking around, shocked at the game rooms and tech labs and college career rooms. Without them even saying that, you can see that they are excited about being in a space like that.”
Although no opening date has been set yet, Akins said the club will be up and running by August, with construction scheduled to finish in July.
“I want our kids in the community to get the full experience of being part of a Boys and Girls Club,” he said. “We want to be able to impact as many kids as we possibly can and give them a place where they feel safe and they can grow and have fun. This is going to be amazing for the community.”
Courtesy photo Julia Martinez is the new executive director of the West Orange Dream Center.
Church DIRECTORY
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
2nd Campus:
First Baptist Church @ Horizon West
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
BeulahBaptistWG.org
Why President Trump was right to act against Maduro MY VIEW
The decision by the United States to bring Nicolás Maduro to the United States to face criminal charges was neither impulsive nor ideological, but the result of sustained evidence, failed diplomacy and escalating threats to national security. It was a decisive America First response after years of failed diplomacy, empty international condemnations and mounting evidence that the Maduro regime had become a direct threat to U.S. national security and hemispheric stability.
that instability in the Western Hemisphere inevitably reaches American shores. Venezuela’s collapse proved that principle once again. Economic implosion and political repression forced millions to flee, destabilizing neighboring countries and driving migration northward. The consequences were felt at the U.S. southern border, where no enforcement strategy can succeed if entire states are allowed to descend into criminal rule.
Trump understood that border security does not begin at the Rio Grande. It begins by addressing the regimes that manufacture chaos, export instability and exploit human suffering to maintain power.
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
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
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
Under President Donald Trump’s leadership, the United States rejected the dangerous illusion that Venezuela was merely a troubled democracy. For more than a decade, Maduro oversaw the dismantling of democratic institutions, the collapse of the economy, and the consolidation of power through repression and criminal activity. Even more alarming, his regime became intertwined with transnational criminal networks, facilitating drug trafficking and organized violence that extended far beyond Venezuela’s borders.
One of the most dangerous byproducts of Maduro’s rule was the expansion of organized criminal networks that thrived amid corruption and state collapse. These groups exploited migration routes and weak enforcement to extend their reach across borders, including into the United States. At the same time, the fentanyl epidemic devastated American families, particularly young people. These drugs do not arrive by chance; they move through transnational supply chains protected by corrupt governments and criminal allies.
Trump recognized what too many policymakers refused to acknowledge: When a government becomes a partner in that ecosystem, it forfeits the protections normally afforded to sovereign states.
CHURCH DIRECTORY
Advertise your Services or Events on this page weekly. This page appears weekly in the West Orange Times & Observer and online at OrangeObserver.com.
By that point, the issue confronting the United States was no longer governance failure — it was security. Continuing to tolerate Maduro’s rule meant accepting growing risks to American lives. Trump recognized that reality and acted accordingly.
To advertise in the Church Directory call 407-656-2121 or email AdvertiseNow@OrangeObserver.com
The U.S. Constitution vests the president with the responsibility to defend the nation against foreign threats. That authority exists precisely so the executive can act when diplomacy has been exhausted and danger remains. Trump took that responsibility seriously. His administration understood that diplomacy is a tool — not a substitute for leadership.
The action taken against Maduro was not about occupation, nationbuilding or imposing American governance. It was about accountability. Sovereignty does not shield leaders who export drugs, violence, and criminal networks beyond their borders. By removing Maduro, the Trump administration eliminated the central obstacle to stability and reform in Venezuela and sent a clear message to criminal regimes everywhere: the United States will defend its citizens and its interests.
What follows must be led by Venezuelans themselves, but that future could only begin once the criminal leadership at the top was removed.
MIKE YOAKUM PASTOR P: 407.656.1520 C: 407.758.3570 MYOAKUM407@AOL.COM 1333 EAST CROWN POINT RD. OCOEE,
In Venezuela, sanctions, negotiations and multilateral pressure had all failed. Maduro ignored them while criminal networks flourished under his protection. Drug-trafficking routes linked to Venezuela expanded across the hemisphere, feeding the fentanyl crisis that has killed hundreds of thousands of Americans. When a foreign regime is credibly accused of enabling the infrastructure that poisons U.S. communities, restraint is no longer wisdom — it is negligence.
History will judge this decision by the clarity of leadership it demonstrated. Faced with a regime that had collapsed into criminality and posed persistent risks beyond its borders, the Trump administration chose resolve over paralysis. In doing so, it restored a principle that had been dangerously eroded — that American strength, exercised decisively and lawfully, deters chaos and saves lives.
Trump rejected the failed consensus that America should endlessly manage threats instead of confronting them.
From the Monroe Doctrine onward, U.S. policy has recognized
Trump did not manage decline; he confronted it. He did not outsource leadership to international forums; he asserted it. This was decisive, accountable leadership in service of national security, border integrity and hemispheric stability — and it deserves unequivocal recognition for restoring American strength when it mattered most.
CAROLINA AMESTY WAS THE FIRST VENEZUELAN AMERICAN ELECTED IN FLORIDA.
This magic moment!
The Men of Motown will hit the stage at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church to pay homage to Motown music.
IF YOU GO
THE MEN OF MOTOWN
WHEN: 7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 6, and Saturday, Feb. 7, and 2 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 8
WHERE: Founder’s Hall at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, 4851
S. Apopka-Vineland Road, Orlando TICKETS: $20 to $30
DETAILS: The Men of Motown will perform classic Motown songs such as “My Girl,” “Superstition,” “This Magic Moment” and more. TICKETS: st.lukes.org/motown
LIZ RAMOS MANAGING EDITOR
Growing up, Quentin Brown spent his summers at his grandmother’s house in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, having cookouts, eating hot dogs and dancing with his 20 cousins to Motown music.
They’d sing and dance along to songs. Brown’s favorites became The Temptations for their harmonies and attire as well as The Four Tops, which features a baritone lead that most Motown groups didn’t have in the group. He appreciated hearing someone singing in a similar register to his own as a lead in a group.
Brown saw these musicians as role models.
“Seeing all of these guys hit these dance steps, singing these great harmonies, all looking good (because) they always had on a stylish two-piece suit, it was always incredible to watch them,” Brown said.
Practicing those dance moves and singing along to classic Motown songs as a child has paid off.
Brown will star in The Men of Motown as the group performs Friday, Feb. 6, through Sunday, Feb. 8, in Founder’s Hall at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church.
He has been performing since he was 3 years old singing in the church choir. He went on to do talent shows at school, and when his family moved to Orlando when he was 12 years old, he attended the Dr. Phillips High School Visual and Performing Arts Magnet program.
“It feels like home when I’m on the stage,” Brown said. “Any time I tried working what we call a pedestrian job, it hasn’t felt like that’s what I’m
meant to be doing, but any time I hit the stage, it feels like that’s exactly what I’m meant to be doing.”
Years later, Brown and his friends Sterling McClary, Michael Nero and Daisean Garrett came up with the idea for The Men of Motown while living in Atlanta, Georgia. Brown said he was interested in creating a Motown tribute show to potentially perform on cruise ships as well as across the country in performing arts centers as a headlining act.
The Men of Motown will perform songs by Stevie Wonder, The Temptations, The Four Tops, The Drifters, The Contours and more.
The four of them started rehearsing in a dance studio in a church, creating choreography to beloved Motown songs.
“(Motown) is timeless, it’s classic,” Brown said. “It doesn’t matter whether you lived while the music was being created or you’re born today. It’s just music that sticks with you, and it just attaches itself to your heart and to your loved ones’ hearts.”
To create the show, Brown, McClary, Nero and Garrett looked up and went through the top hits of the best Motown groups and compiled a list. They then narrowed down the list using a more
mainstream approach, Brown said. He hopes The Men of Motown will be able to highlight more of the groups that were not initially selected in future renditions of the show.
“It was a lot of battling with people like this song is better than this song, or should we choose this one?” Brown said. “Ultimately, we chose the ones we felt connected with us the most.”
The Men of Motown for the St. Luke’s performance will feature Brown, Casey Gulledge, Alantae Jackson and Kerry Alce. The performers met working at SeaWorld when Brown relocated to the area in 2023.
“It’s like performing with family,” Brown said. “As the oldest member in the group, it’s like having the kid brothers I never had because I am actually the youngest brother (in my family).”
Brown said the audience at St. Luke’s can expect 60 to 70 minutes of “truly electric, energetic performers.” He said this will not be a typical show as he wants people to sing along and celebrate the “incredible music” Motown artists created.
“We are going to cut some steps that are going to burn a hole into the stage,” he said. “We’re going to have the audience up on their feet, singing, danc-
ing, clapping along, and we just want to leave everybody with a memory they’ll be able to take back with them for the rest of the year.”
Brown and McClary created all the choreography for the songs. He said the process entailed a lot of trial and error.
“It’s a lot of getting in front of the mirror, making sure everyone matches evenly because the great thing about the male groups back then is they all had a sense of cleanliness and a uniform look about them,” Brown said. “We do a great job of honoring that but also still showing everybody’s personality and their uniqueness to movement.”
At 34 years old, Brown said it’s “absolutely wild” to be living out his dreams as a performer. He said The Men of Motown performing music he grew up with is a love letter to his family and to the community at St. Luke’s, which he calls his church home. He’s looking forward to performing in front of loved ones, having the church community see him in his element and having high school friends be able to attend the performance to support him.
Courtesy photo
In Matthew’s Hope’s emergency shelter, karaoke adds a bit of fun
LETICIA SILVA STAFF WRITER
MissingLink Entertainment brought its DJ and karaoke machine to Matthew’s Hope Ministries to bring a sense of normalcy and belonging to those at the emergency shelter during the extreme cold weather Central Florida experienced.
People sang, danced, cheered and had smiles on their faces.
“I knew it was a great idea the second they asked me about it,” MissingLink Entertainment owner Matt Leiva said. “There’s always a lot of stigma and assumptions made about people experiencing homelessness, but all I saw was a community enjoying a fun activity together. I didn’t know
HOW TO HELP
Visit matthewshopeministries. org to donate.
Follow Matthew’s Hope, Orange County, on Facebook to learn about items urgently needed.
what to expect going into it, but I was blown away by how similar it was to the crowds I get at bars or holiday parties. People smiling, dancing and just wanting to have a great time.”
Different types of genres were played, including songs such as “Ben” by Michael Jackson, “Fly Me to the Moon” by Frank Sinatra, “I Believe I Can Fly” by R. Kelly and more. “I had such a great time hosting
the impromptu event,” Leiva said. “I wasn’t sure how it was going to go over. I thought, ‘Worst-case scenario, I’ll just play music for them if nobody wanted to sing.’ But we had people signing up to sing nonstop, and I had a blast. I really think everyone had a fun time and that meant the world to me.”
Matthew’s Hope Director Shannon Diaz said karaoke was a perfect way to ease tension in a tough situation.
“The biggest joy has to be seeing everybody laughing, having fun with the karaoke and everybody just being able to enjoy themselves, even if it’s just for today or just for that moment,” she said. “Very rarely do the people that we serve get the opportunity to not worry where they’re going to sleep at night, not worry about their next
meal, not worry about all the things that come along with being homeless and to just be able to let loose even if they’re not comfortable enough to get up there, but just to listen, to laugh, to just kind of let their shoulders relax and kind of just be in the moment, it’s nice.”
Oakland leaders approve $55M on-site sewage treatment plan
The plan for remediation is required by the state. Oakland’s plans will take place over the next two decades.
The Oakland Town Commission approved Tuesday, Jan. 27, the adoption of an on-site sewage treatment disposal system remediation plan as required per the state.
Florida Statutes require local governments to come up with a remediation plan if the Florida Department of Environment Protection deems onsite sewage treatment and disposal systems are contributing at least 20% of nutrient pollutants that go into a basin management action plan area.
IN OTHER NEWS
n Mayor Shane Taylor proclaimed Monday, Jan. 26, to Friday, Jan. 30, as “Celebrate Literacy Week.”
n Taylor proclaimed February as National Black History Month.
n Commissioners approved serving wine at the Black History Tribute Artist Reception event.
n The deadline to register to vote for the March 10 election is Monday, Feb. 9.
REMEDIATION PROJECTS
Oakland is located within three basin management action plans: the Upper Ocklawaha, the Wekiva River, and the Wekiwa and Rock Springs.
Oakland Public Works Director
Mike Parker said staff have been working with Kimley-Horn, a consulting firm, to develop a remediation plan based on information on on-site sewage treatment and disposal systems from 2023 and eight criteria.
The plan is simple: Meet state requirements by lowering the town’s nutrient pollution.
To do that, the town wants to go from septic systems to sewer systems, which transport waste to centralized treatment plants to disinfect and remove contaminants more effectively than the soil-absorption method used by septic systems.
“The good news here is that for the past decade, Oakland has been compelling developers to construct central sewer systems to accommodate new growth, and we have been diligent in extending those lines to enable septic to sewer conversions,” Parker said.
On-site sewage treatment and disposal system elimination projects already have been developed
FOR THE REMEDIATION PLAN
n Inventory of existing on-site sewage treatment and disposal system
n Estimate of future growth in new systems in the next 20 years.
and could be implemented over the next 20 years, costing an estimated $55,522,875.
A project timeline has yet to be set.
The town also reviewed on-site
n
n
sewage treatment and disposal system enhancement projects, which would convert these systems to nutrient removal systems, totaling about $16,182 million.
n Estimation of the number and cost of on-site sewage
and disposal systems that will require upgrading
n Any other cost-effective and financially-feasible projects necessary to achieve the nutrient load reductions
While Mayor Shane Taylor and Commissioner Kris Keller were concerned with the cost, Parker reminded them of DEP funding opportunities.
In addition to karaoke, Matthew’s Hope also provided bingo cards, colored pencils and decorative pouches for the homeless to pass the time. Diaz said one of their favorite activities to do while at the shelter is put on a classic movie and relax, but karaoke was a good addition to the activities.
LETICIA SILVA STAFF WRITER
Some people sang duets together.
Photo by Leticia Silva
SPORTS
Foundation Academy’s cheer team finished No. 4 in the nation, and Becky Dechon’s efforts supported the finish. Page 10A.
‘A walking legend’
1
The First Academy boys soccer team secured the Class 2A District 6 Championship Tuesday, Jan. 27, over Cornerstone Charter Academy. The game was tied 1-1 at the end of regulation, and in the overtime penalty shootout, TFA won 3-2. With the win, the team ended the 10-year drought; the last time TFA won the district championship was in 2016. The Royalso played in the 2A Regional Quarterfinals Tuesday, Feb. 3. Results were not available as of press time.
2Rock ’N Rev American Music Bar ’N Grill selected Corbin Householder, a city of Ocoee’s Park and Leisure Services basketball player, as the Player of the Week.
Householder, jersey No. 21, was recognized for his leadership and power in his team’s 13-9 win. He had a team high of nine points and showed his young talent with top-level shooting and confidence on the hardwood.
Rock ‘N Rev also recognized coach Marlon Massey’s 10U squad as the Team of the Week. It is the only 10U team that is 2-0. The team won Saturday, Jan. 17, 14-13, and won Saturday, Jan. 24, 13-10.
3
Foundation Academy’s varsity lacrosse coaches put a pause on their coaching title to take on the player role by competing in the 2026 Florida Lax Classic.
Victor Rodriguez and Aaron Walenga played in the men’s Grand Masters National Championship 45-plus tournament Friday, Jan. 16, to Sunday, Jan. 18. The annual tournament in Weston, Florida brought together players aging from 40 years old to 70. It helps to raise money for the Florida Youth Lacrosse Foundation, supporting struggling or new programs.
4
Windermere High celebrated victory Tuesday, Jan. 27, across the soccer field. The Wolverines’ girls and boys soccer teams won the Class 7A District 5 Championship on the same night.
On the road to becoming district champions, Windermere’s boys team first defeated Dr. Phillips High 6-1 to advance to the championship game. In the finals, Windermere closely contested with Olympia High in a 2-1 matchup.
The Wolverines will play in regionals Friday, Feb. 6, against Harmony. The team enters the matchup with a 16-1-5 overall record, 2-0-1 in district play, nationally ranked No. 34 and ranked No. 26 in Florida. Windermere’s girls team also topped Dr. Phillips 5-0 Friday, Jan. 23, in the district semifinals. In the finals, the Wolverines won 1-0 over their East Ridge opponents. The Wolverines will play in regionals Thursday, Feb. 5, against Harmony. Windermere has put up a 12-4-2 record this season, 1-0-1 in district play, No. 108 Florida ranking and No. 414 in the nation.
5Lake Buena Vista High girls weightlifter Aime
Albarran finished first place in traditional for Class 3A District 4 regionals Wednesday, Jan. 21. Her total weight was 245 pounds. She also finished No. 2 in Olympic weightlifting by lifting 220 pounds. Albarran qualified herself to compete in the Class 3A State Championship Sunday, Feb. 15, in Lakeland, Florida.
Ocoee resident and Little League coach Pete Armstrong died Saturday, Jan. 24, but his memory and teachings will live on through his players.
MEGAN BRUINSMA STAFF WRITER
Armand Winters lived across the railroad tracks in Ocoee from his Little League coach, Pete Armstrong. Winters remembers stepping outside and seeing Armstrong in his driveway with baseball helmets lined up, preparing them for a fresh coat of paint. He carefully painted them himself. He mowed the Little League fields on his riding lawnmower and would bring his old army duffel bags filled with bats and baseballs. That scene is how Winters knew baseball season was right around the corner.
Years later, the memories remain vivid — not only because of the trophies and championships Armstrong represented but also because of the man behind them.
“He was a walking legend,” Winters said. Armstrong, at 87 years old, died Saturday, Jan. 24, but his character and impact on others will never be forgotten.
WINNING LEGACY
Derrick Anderson, who played for Armstrong from 1988 to 1991, said Armstrong coached at Ocoee Little League for at least 45 years, and in those years he knew one
Wolverines launch campaign to replace stadium’s grass field
Windermere High hopes to raise $1.3 million to turf its football field.
MEGAN BRUINSMA STAFF WRITER
Windermere High’s field looked perfect at the end of December for winter break. Green grass covered the field, without a hole in sight, but then students came back.
Physical education classes, soccer, and track-and-field teams, band rehearsals, and more filled Windermere’s field, and within a month, dirt holes were scattered across the field once again.
The growth of the school is reflected in the field’s constant use, which, in turn, has brought to light the limitations of the Wolverines’ existing playing surface.
That has led to Windermere jumpstarting the “Turf the Field” campaign
in November to raise $1.3 million to fund the installation of a turfed field.
In a perfect world, the field would be completed in June, Athletic Director Jeremy Campbell said. The timeline depends on how quickly the school can raise funds. Once Windermere hits its financial goal, the building process will take 10 weeks. Teams already have begun contributing their part by hosting fundraising competitions, apparel sales and the GoFundMe donation campaign.
Windermere’s goal with turfing the field isn’t only to benefit the athletes and students who frequent the property but also the local community. When Campbell took over as the athletic director in July 2025, he said he wanted to make the school more known in the community and foster a place for families to drive to on the weekends.
“This is for the community,” Campbell said. “This is not a, ‘We build it, we keep it and lock the gates.’ We want to build it so that the community can
come and be a part of this thing with us.”
Right now, with the current state of the field, Windermere is unable to allow outside organizations to rent it for use because it wouldn’t be safe, and the field can’t afford the extra wear and tear. Principal Andrew Leftakis said the Horizon West Wolves, a youth sports organization that has partnered with Windermere to use its fields for years, reached out to continue the partnership, but he had to turn them down.
With new turf, that changes.
Leftakis and Campbell envision a place for youth leagues to host practices and games, track organizations to hold meets, and community events, competitions and performances also could call Windermere’s stadium their home.
The debate over the safety of turfed athletic fields has been prominent in the sporting community, but the
Left: Pete Armstrong, back left, dedicated himself to Ocoee Little League. In his 45-plus years with the league, he became known as the champion-producing coach.
Below: Ocoee dedicated Armstrong Alley to Pete Armstrong for his dedication in the little league. He was proud to be recognized but remained a humble man.
Courtesy photos
Becky Dechon
“Fight Lions fight,” rang through ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex Saturday, Jan. 31, and Sunday, Feb. 1, for UCA Nationals as Foundation Academy competitive cheer team made it through the semifinals to the finals. The team closed out its season with a No. 4 finish in the nation after finishing No. 2 in the state. Foundation has been at the top of the leaderboards in cheerleading in recent years. The team won Nationals and Worlds in 2024, and Worlds again in 2025. At the forefront of the success is junior Becky Dechon, whose dedication and spirit has been an important piece of the puzzle.
What do you enjoy most about cheer?
I’ve always enjoyed making friends and how fun cheer is for me.
When did you start cheering, and why did you join?
I started cheer in 2015 because my sister was a cheerleader. I decided to join because of her.
What is your biggest accomplishment in cheer?
Winning states three times.
What has cheer taught you?
Cheer has taught me that being negative never is the right mindset and that staying positive will always help you and everyone around you do better.
How would you describe yourself as a teammate?
I would say I’m pretty funny to be around, but I’m also very determined to do well.
What advice would you give someone who just joined cheer?
Always do your best and work super hard, even when it’s difficult. Don’t focus on what makes it hard, focus on what makes it fun and always stay positive.
If you were a coach, what speech would you give the team?
THE BASICS Age: 16 Grade: Junior School: Foundation Academy Sport: Competitive cheer
What is your pre-competition ritual?
I usually stand by myself and look to God to pray. I also circle up and pray with my team.
If you could pick a different sport, what would it be and why?
I don’t think I could ever leave cheer, but if I had to choose another sport, it would probably be volleyball, because it looks so fun, and I’ve always wanted to try it.
Who do you look up to the most?
I’ve always looked up to one of my coaches and my choreographer for Foundation Academy, Sandy. I’ve known her since I was little, and she’s always there to help me.
What is something new you would like to learn?
I’d like to learn anything and everything. I don’t have anything specific in mind — I just love learning new things.
Where would you want to live if you weren’t in Florida? Somewhere in California. I love it so much, and every time I visit, I have an amazing time.
If you won the lottery, what would you do with the money?
I probably would save it until I truly found something meaningful to spend it on, and I also would give some of it to my family.
What is your favorite holiday and why?
Halloween, because every year, my friends and I have so much fun together. It’s always the best holiday for me.
What future career do you I would love to be a cosmetolo-
If you became famous, what Probably cheer, because I’ve always wanted to do really big things in cheer, and being famous would be so cool.
If you had to pick a spirit animal, which would you choose? This is hard, but I would probably choose an orange cat. Even though cats are pretty chill, they always have an energetic
What is your perfect day? Waking up on a Saturday and having a concert later
Would you rather only eat fruit or vegetables, Fruit, 100%. I’ve always loved fruit, and if you ever put a fruit tray in front of me, it would be gone in the next five
MEGAN BRUINSMA
Coach’s legacy lives on
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9A
feeling — winning. Winter said of the years Armstrong coached, he won the championship 75% of the time.
Anderson never lost a game playing for Armstrong. He didn’t understand losing until he was 13 years old playing on the bigger fields and lost his first game.
Growing up in Ocoee meant you were one of two people: You either played for Armstrong or you wished you did, Winters said.
Armstrong was a simple man. He lived in the same home, married to the same woman and had the same job, and it resulted in him being simple and straight to the point in the way he spoke to others.
As a coach, Armstrong’s top priority was to develop players first. He used his actions to build confidence, putting players in uncomfortable positions that later produced success. He taught baseball through repetition and had batting cages in his backyard to teach players individually or in group sessions.
On the field, Armstrong coached with “tough love,” but he was the first to say, “I love you,” after a game, Sean Carrol, a player of Armstrong’s, said. Carrol’s team made history by becoming the second team to make it to sectionals. The nature in which Armstrong coached as well as the man he was grew the respect his players and community members had for him.
His players said the first thing Armstrong told his teams was, “You’re going to call me Mr. Armstrong and say, ‘Yes sir and no sir.’” They did it without hesitation, even the parents spoke to him that way.
“The way he raised us on the field is the way I tried to raise my son, held him accountable for everything and respect,” Anderson said.
The coaching style taught his players life lessons extending beyond the dugout. They learned how to clean up after themselves, respect adults, work hard, go to
school and stay out of trouble. Nobody wanted to be caught doing anything bad in Armstrong’s presence.
“Some coaches coach because they just need a coach,” former player Josh Wilson said. “He coached because he really had the passion for it.”
The passion showed itself in how Armstrong worked with his players. Every boy who walked onto the field under Armstrong’s wing earned a nickname as their badge of honor.
White showed up to practice one day with a red ring of Kool-Aid around his mouth and it birthed his name, “Kool-Aid.” Wilson earned the nickname “Stumpy,” for his tendency to stay motionless in the batter’s box until the pitch arrived. Anderson was named “Biscuit.”
But not everyone had a glamorous nickname.
Carrol, otherwise known as “Booger Red,” had striking red hair that resembled another man in Ocoee, and the nickname was born. The instant welcoming nature Carrol received helped him navigate the challenges of moving from New York to Ocoee at 8 years old.
“I didn’t realize Ocoee was a tight group, and it really was tight with baseball families, and then Pete was right on the top of it all,” Carrol said. “He was the main guy, being the leader of all that and made everybody feel comfortable playing in that league.”
Forty years later, the nicknames still stick. White said he still calls his air conditioning tech, “Rusty,” and Wilson, one of his closest friends, “Stumpy.” Sharing the inside jokes bonded the players, made them feel welcomed, and it’s a feeling they always will remember.
“I had a lot of good coaches, but he was above all of them,” Winters said. “He taught us structure at a young age that a lot of the boys in that area needed and that effect was beyond the boys on his team. He affected the whole league. He
affected the whole neighborhood.”
His impact even was seen by the city of Ocoee.
COACHING LEGACY
At the Ocoee City Commission meeting March 17, 1987, James Beech recounted Armstrong’s extraordinary contributions to Ocoee Little League and requested the bypass between the youth center and the baseball fields be named “Armstrong Alley.” His request passed unanimously, and Armstrong Alley was born for the years he had put into the program.
But his legacy doesn’t live on through a street sign. It lived through the former players who would stop by his house to say hello, in backyard batting cages, in coaches who believe repetition builds confidence and the kids who felt seen when they were new or unsure of their talents.
And it will continue to live through his players who were so touched by his coaching style they practice today.
Winters, now Foundation Academy softball team’s head coach, remembered three years ago calling pitches to his pitcher. One in particular wasn’t working, and she didn’t want to throw it, but Winters had her repeat it because he knew one successful pitch would bring up her confidence.
“When I’m on a bucket, I can hear him to this day saying, ‘Smile out there Kool-Aid. Kool-Aid smile,’’’ Winters said. “And I do the same thing when they’re pitching, if they’re struggling I say, ‘Give me a smile.’”
Carrol, South Lake High’s pitching coach, follows the same tough love to his players Armstrong showed him. He’s tough on them, but after practice, Carrol treats them as one of his own children.
“This probably comes from Mr. Armstrong and I say this, ‘Softball is just a tool; it’s just a tool for life,’” Winters said.
School seeks field of dreams
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9A
school found research that refutes these concerns and has chosen to move forward. A major concern with the current grass field is player safety during games; athletes must be constantly vigilant about avoiding holes in the field to prevent sprained ankles.
“As a coach, I’m very esteemed to be able to have turf just as far as durability and the kids being able to play on a fast turf,” head football coach Riki Smith said. “But I think it’s bigger than, in my opinion, football. Yes, we play on it, but just think
about all the sports that can benefit from it.” Boys and girls soccer, football, track and the marching band will be able to practice on the turf without disturbing its condition. And Windermere’s athletic programs are on a straight line to success. This year the school celebrated both soccer teams winning districts, a football team with back-to-back 10-0 seasons and a four-time district champion lacrosse team. A turfed field will benefit all of these programs on a daily basis, and the athletes are excited about the opportunity.
Leftakis said grass fields can be beautiful if they’re properly maintained, but doing so costs $60,000 or more per year to keep up with it. It’s not an annual cost Windermere can afford; it is more common at the college or professional level. He said what the field really needs is time off, but with a student population of approximately 3,000, that’s not possible.
“The initial cost (for turf) is a lot,” he said. “But once you get to the lifespan of that field, the replacement cost is considerably less.”
Megan Bruinsma
Windermere High Athletic Director Jeremy Campbell and Principal Andrew Leftakis want to make the school’s field a place for the community.
BRAINF D
The Observer answers kids’ burning curiosities.
If you’re a fan of modern hip-hop, pop or rap artists, you should thank the founders of Motown. Motown — the record label responsible for putting a spotlight on African-American musicians in American pop culture — started way back in 1959. But its influence still is felt today in many popular artists. In honor of Black History Month, let’s learn a little more about a dream that changed American music forever.
THE BEGINNING
In the late 1950s, a man named Berry Gordy had a dream of creating Motown Records. And he took an $800 loan to launch that dream in Detroit, Michigan. Mr. Gordy had worked on the assembly line at Ford Motor Company, and his idea was to take that same assemblyline process and apply it to music. He wanted Motown Records to be a hit factory.
Motown’s first headquarters was a two-story house later named “Hitsville USA.” The studio was open 22 hours every day to churn out as much music as possible.
And with Mr. Gordy listening to every song and only releasing the best, “Hitsville USA” more than lived up to its name.
THE ARTISTS
Early Motown recording artists included Detroit local Smokey Robinson. His song, “Shop Around,” became the label’s first million-selling song, which launched the sound for which Motown is known.
The label exploded to include artists such as The Supremes; The Temptations; Marvin Gaye; Stevie Wonder; The Four Tops; Martha and the Vandellas; and Gladys Knight & the Pips.
Later, The Jackson 5 took the world by storm. And when Michael Jackson launched his solo career, he became one of the most famous artists of all time.
THE FUNK BROTHERS
Motown employed musicians called The Funk Brothers, who served as the
band behind most of Motown’s songs.
In fact, the band performed on more No. 1 songs than The Beatles, Elvis Presley and The Rolling Stones combined! Some of those songs include “My Girl,” “I Heard It Through the Grapevine” and “Baby Love.”
The Funk Brothers featured 13 musicians, including bass player James Jamerson, who was famous for using only one finger to create some of the most memorable bass lines in American music history.
THE MOTOWN SOUND Motown, which paved the way for modern pop, hip-hop, soul and R&B, has several distinct characteristics:
n A danceable drum beat, often with a constant tambourine groove
n Simple, catchy and memorable bass guitar melodies n Call-and-response vocals — similar to what you’d hear in gospel churches
n A large sound, often including an entire horn section or even orchestral instruments such as violins, violas and cellos.
THE SUCCESS Americans loved the “Motown Sound” — so much so that between 1960 and 1969, the label had 79 songs reach the top 10 of the Billboard Hot 100.
Mr. Gordy moved the label to Los Angeles in the 1970s to be closer to the movie industry.
In the 1980s, Motown’s roster included artists such as Lionel Richie, The
Commodores, Rick James and more.
In 1988, Mr. Gordy sold the company for $61 million — not a bad profit from an $800 original investment.
In the 1990s, the label found success with Boyz II Men, Erykah Badu and Brian McKnight.
EVENTS
PRESCHOOL ARTISTS: AFRICANAMERICAN ILLUSTRATORS
10:30 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 10, at the Winter Garden Branch Library, and 11 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 26, at the West Oaks Branch and Genealogy Center. Let your imagination and little hands run wild with color and textures to create a masterpiece inspired by artists throughout history. Ages 3 to 5.
AFRICAN AMERICAN READ-IN
2 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 15, at the Orlando Public Library, Melrose Center. Celebrate African-American literature in poetry, story and song, in conjunction with the 36th Annual National African American Read-In.
THE LEGEND OF JOHN HENRY
4:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 19, at the Winter Garden Branch Library. Celebrate African-American folk hero John Henry and his famed victory over the steam drill with crafts, games and music. Ages 6 to 12.
ORISIRISI AFRICAN FOLKLORE
10 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 25, at the West Oaks Branch and Genealogy Center. Share the beauty of African life and culture through a unique folkloric performance filled with drumming, dance and storytelling.
EXCEPTIONAL ARTISTS:
JEAN-MICHEL BASQUIAT
4 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 25, at Washington Park Library. Learn about artist Jean-Michel Basquiat and make an art piece inspired by his work. Ages 6 to 12.
TALL TALES OF ZORA NEALE HURSTON
4 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 25, at the West Oaks Branch and Genealogy Center. Learn about Zora Neale Hurston, get inspired and create a story for the ages. Ages 6 to 12.
PRESCHOOL STORYTIME: ZORA’S BUTTERFLY GARDEN 10:30 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 26, at the Winter Garden Branch Library. Celebrate Zora Neale Hurston and her history by learning about folklore through singing, talking, playing, writing and reading. Ages 3 to 5.
RECOMMENDED READING
AFRICAN-AMERICAN ILLUSTRATORS
n “Miles from Motown” by Lisa Sukenic
n “How Sweet the Sound” by Alexander Kwame
n “The Little Mermaid” by Jerry Pinkney
n “Sam’s Super Seats” by Keah Brown; illustrated by Sharee Miller
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OF THE WEEK
INFLUENCER
ARNETTA HEIDELBERG WATER SPRING MIDDLE SCHOOL
Arnetta Heidelberg is the assistant principal for instruction at Water Spring Middle School.
She is responsible for master scheduling and students’ scheduling, and she works closely with the guidance department to ensure all students are in the courses needed to move to the next grade level. She supervises the math and science departments, helping teachers with strategies to reach all students. She also supervises the custodial staff and ensures safety drills are completed in a timely manner. She’s in charge of facilities, working with maintenance ensuring the campus runs smoothly, and she’s in charge of discipline, ensuring the campus’ environment is one where all students can thrive.
After 40 years in Orange County Public Schools, she is retiring at the end of the school year.
“She is constantly working behind the scenes to ensure that the students are learning at high levels, that the staff feels supported and the community feels welcomed,” Principal Korey Bawden said. “She has been an asset to Water Spring Middle School, and we will miss her at the end of the year.”
What brought you to your school?
I was transferred to Water Spring Middle School two-and-a-half years ago. It was exciting to open the ’23-’24 school year on a brand new campus.
What do you love most about your school?
What I love most about my school are the students and their different personalities. Every day is interesting.
What is the most rewarding part of your job?
The most rewarding part of my job is working with an amazing staff and serving the needs of our students.
What would you be if you weren’t in this profession?
I would be an accountant or an architect. I love numbers and designing.
Who influences you?
My husband, who is my rock. My mother, who is the strongest person I know. My children, who are a reflection of our hard work and dedication, and my inner circle of colleagues and friends.
Who was your favorite teacher when you were in school? Why?
My favorite teacher was Ms. Elizabeth Riley. She was my ninthgrade English teacher, and I had her again as my English Literature teacher in 12th grade. She fostered my love of reading, encouraging me to read all genres of books.
What is your favorite memory at Water Spring Middle School?
Although I am still creating memories, my favorite so far was watch-
REPORT CARD
Years at school: Two-and-one-half
Years with OCPS: 40
ing one of our English Language Learners students start the school year speaking little to no English to having a full blown conversation with me by the end of the school year.
What piece of advice would you give to any middle school student?
I would advise any middle school student to be careful with who they associate themselves. Unhealthy influences are everywhere.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
I like to read and sew in my spare time.
If you could dine with any famous person, past or present, who would it be and why?
If I could dine with a famous person, it would be Maya Angelou. She was one of my favorite authors and poets. I would speak to her about her book, “I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings,” and her poem, “Still I Rise.”
If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?
I would be a mind reader. I would love to know the thought process behind the actions of some people.
If you could only listen to three bands or artists, who would they be and why?
There are so many artists that I listen to that I can’t single it to just three. I am a fan of R&B and jazz and music from the ’80s and ’90s.
What is your favorite holiday and why?
My favorite holiday is Christmas. I enjoy celebrating the reason for the season with family. We cook, we laugh and enjoy each other’s company.
Who was your best friend when you were in school and why? Are you still in touch?
My best friend was Angela Moody. Angela was my neighbor, and we did most things together. We met when her family moved to our area when we were in third grade. We lost touch after high school, but our parents continued to be in touch until her parents passed away.
What were your extracurricular activities as a student? Did you win any accolades or honors?
I was the vice president of my senior class, I was a member and president of the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA), and I played intramural sports (basketball and volleyball). I graduated in the top 10% of my senior class.
LIZ RAMOS
Marisela, Sophia and Erich Keller enjoyed solving poems to earn a prize.
Assistant Principal Dr. Trisha Travis engaged the students by asking them what they would do if they ran for school president. One said she would give everyone free ice cream, and the other said she’d extend recess.
Los Angeles Lakers’ Kobe Bryant and New York Yankees’ Derek Jeter taught students about their legendary careers.
Right: Christopher Nowik and Heather Bridgeman said they always dress up for Read, White & Blue Literacy Night. They had students write stories about how they became a pirate and gave them gold coins.
THE WAYS WE WERE FROM THE WINTER GARDEN HERITAGE FOUNDATION
1941: 85 years ago
Mrs. Norwood Lockett entertained with a Coca-Cola party in honor of her house guest, Mrs. Hugh McLennon of Chicago. The occasion was considered an “outstanding social event of the week.” There were about 30 local ladies attending. The Junior Woman’s Club of Ocoee elected officers for the next year: Ruby Stone, president; Mrs. Clem Brown, first vice president; Nellie Nelson, second vice president; Flaudie Still, recording secretary; and Louise Brown, corresponding secretary.
1946: 80 years ago
Editorial: “There never was a time in Winter Garden when the building lots were so largely sought after as today. The city is destined for the greatest building boom in its history. Many veterans returning home, as well as newcomers arriving in the city, are attracted to the ideal location here for homes.”
1951: 75 years ago
Girl Scouts in Troop 1, led by Mrs. Herbert Schley and Mrs. T.M. Britt, met to learn the rudiments of square dancing and then go on a hike and cook supper out in the open. Troop 3, led by Mrs. Ed Petris and Mrs. George Barley, went on an overnight camping trip at Roper Camp on Lake Butler.
1966: 60 years ago
The Winter Garden Circle of the West Orange Garden Club commemorated Arbor Day by planting a magnolia tree at Tildenville Elementary School.
1971: 55 years ago
The Winter Garden Boat Club was looking to increase membership by making a lot of exciting new plans, including frequent outings. Led by G.H. “Frog” Vandergrift, the group met monthly at the Florida Power Lounge.
On Jan. 29, 1892, Coca-Cola’s prized formulation and brand were purchased by businessman Asa Griggs Candler, who established the iconic company in Atlanta. Today, it’s everywhere — and did you know Winter Garden was the site of West Orange County’s Coca-Cola distributor? The building was located on North Main Street and, after changing hands several times, was purchased by Valbro Business Forms, a printing company owned and operated by the Valdes family. The building and several surrounding warehouses no longer stand, having been replaced by a new city of Winter Garden car park. Pictured are Ralph Pryor, left, flatbed press room; Bonnie Bray, bindery; George Landers, sales; Louise Vining, bindery; Donald Bennett, rotary press room; A.C. Valdes, president; George Bekemeyer, production manager; J.M. Valdes, secretary-treasurer; Major Womack, rotary press room; Nettie Giddens, bindery; D.J. Giddens, composing room; Marguerite Kennington, office; Charles Littlejohn, composing room; Ralph Swift, flatbed press room; and F.E. Smith, sales.
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.
Awards were given out at the monthly meeting of Windermere Cub Scout Pack 223. Receiving Wolf badges were Edward Rudleff, Marc Beugnet, Dean Williams, Frank Chase, Stuart Marshall, Don Katutis and Ben Taylor. Those getting Bear badges were Jack Carter and Greg Smith. Greg Greenman earned the Gold Arrow.
1976: 50 years ago
Food World advertised two full pages of sales and deals — a 5-pound can of ham for $7.99, a quarter pound of smoked or fresh liverwurst for 49 cents, a freshly made submarine sandwich for 79 cents, a 9-pound box of golden fried chicken for $2.59 and a dozen extra-large eggs for 75 cents. In the
health-and-beauty department, shoppers could get hairspray for 79 cents, shampoo for 99 cents, toothpaste for 85 cents and 100 Tylenol tablets for 99 cents. For the babies, a 32-ounce can of Enfamil cost 79 cents, a 30-count package of Kimbies daytime diapers was $1.99, and jars of Heinz strained baby food were a dime apiece.
THROWBACK
celebrity cipher
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MEGA FREESTYLE 3 by Rafael Musa, edited by Jared Goudsmit By Luis Campos
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