03.03.22 West Orange Times & Observer

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

Observer Winter Garden, Ocoee, Oakland

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VOLUME 89, NO. 9

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THURSDAY, MARCH 3, 2022

Creativity among the lakes The town of Windermere hosted its 2022 Windermere Fine Arts Show. SEE PAGE 7.

YOUR TOWN HORIZON WEST FEST RETURNS

Close to home

The annual Horizon West Fest is back!

The free event will take place from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, March 5, at Hamlin Town Center, 14111 Shoreside Way, Winter Garden.

The event, organized by Horizon West Happenings, celebrates the Horizon West community. The event will include a kids zone, food, beer and wine, music, games, giveaways, a scavenger hunt and live entertainment.

Presenting sponsors for the event include Orlando Health and Healthy West Orange.

For more information, visit horizonwesthappenings.com.

WINDERMERE TO HOST PET FEST

Courtesy photos

Shawn Sullivan is working to making sure the Ukrainians are sheltered and cared for during the war.

F

ormer Ocoee residents Shawn and Amy Sullivan, who

The Windermere Pet Fest returns to the town from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, March 5, at Town Square Park, 520 Main St., Windermere.

Windermere’s annual Pet Fest is fun for the whole family — both two- and four-legged members. Enjoy food trucks, pet activities, a police K-9 demonstration, live music, paw-some vendors and more.

Admission is free.

For more information, visit town.windermere.fl.us.

WARRIOR BASEBALL TEAM SELLING BRICKS

The baseball program at West Orange High School is selling personalized bricks as its spring fundraiser. All Warrior baseball alumni and parents are invited to purchase a brick to support a player and have it added to the brick walkway at the school.

Bricks cost $50, are four inches by eight inches and include up to three lines of engraving.

The deadline to purchase one is March 14. Call (407) 269-1948.

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founded Mission 823 more than 22 years ago to help

the European country’s orphans and at-risk children, have switched their efforts to caring for Ukrainian refugees of the week-old war between Russia and their country.

STORY ON PAGE 4.

City delays vote on districts Two Winter Garden city commissioners want more time to study a report by the city’s districting commission.

SEE PAGE 4.

BRAINFOOD

A GRAIN OF SWALT Meet the two friends behind Swalty Sisters, the newest gift shop in downtown Winter Garden.

SEE PAGE 5.

Kids: Ever wonder how genes work?

Find out in our newest feature! 16.

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THURSDAY, MARCH 3, 2022

Traffic concerns dominate Selnik talk A developer wants to rezone 33.7 acres across from Windermere High school to build 17 single-family homes and 93 townhomes.

ANNABELLE SIKES STAFF WRITER

Although last week’s meeting regarding a proposal to build 110 homes across from Windermere High School was supposed to provide more information about the development, some residents left with unanswered questions and even more trepidation.

Orange County District 1 Commissioner Nicole Wilson hosted the community meeting Wednesday, Feb. 23, at Windermere High School, about the Selnik planned development and land use plan proposal.

The developer, VHB Inc., wants to rezone 33.7 gross acres to construct 17 single-family detached homes and 93 townhomes at 5504 Winter Garden-Vineland Road.

“We listened to comments and concerns raised at the first community meeting and believe the new plan we presented shows the

owner’s commitment to work with the neighbors and Commissioner (Nicole) Wilson,” a statement from the property owner read. “Our application meets the minimum density of the Townhome District in the Horizon West Special Area Plan and only proposes townhomes and single-family detached residential uses.

The development team is committed to continue to work with Commissioner Wilson and with the surrounding neighbors as we continue through the review process.”

Although the developer has made changes, reidents feel it is not enough.

Kate Consalvo, who lives in Lake Cawood Estates near the property, said her and other neighbors’ primary concern is traffic. Consalvo said there are a large number of kids who walk or bike to school and there have been multiple accidents in the area.

“It’s very frustrating after this meeting to learn that in no way, shape or form does traffic impact what is being built there,” she said.

“It’s a huge public safety concern.”

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expansion but we need to make sure the kids and pedestrians are safe.”

Even if a traffic study is conducted, Wilson said the county is prohibited by state law from denying a development based on traffic. However, she said she understands traffic issues in the area are important to the community and its residents.

“Orange County hasn’t been focused on anything more than adding lanes for a long time, so we really want residents to engage in thinking about what works best for you, for your community and your family,” she said.

Wilson said the project has changed based on residents’ concerns. The applicant originally wanted to develop a high-rise apartment complex, to which residents expressed concerns since it is part of the Windermere Rural Settlement.

When Wilson originally met with the applicant to voice the residents’ concerns, she said the developer said the residents could “come kicking and screaming.”

Since then, the commissioner said the applicant has come a long way and has been more open to the residents’ concerns.

“I really feel like the community is on the precipice of something really good, so we need to get opinions from residents and we need to get them engaged,” Wilson said. “We all just want to make sure the develop-

ment is something that fits and keeps everyone safe.”

Wilson also noted residents’ concerns about a large tree on the property. She said she wants to make sure the tree is identified as a Heritage Oak early, so it can be protected.

Seward said she believes the property could be used for a plethora of other uses outside of building townhomes.

“It would be great to see it left as green space, or to add a park, or fields, or something the surrounding communities could walk to,” she said. “Between the school and all the retail that has been added, we are leaving no land or parks.”

Orange County Case Planner Jason Sorensen said the property was designated as a Townhome District ever since the approval of the Village of Bridgewater Horizon West Special Planning Area Map in 1998.

However, since the County Estate zoning will not permit the use of townhomes, a PD rezoning is required to outline the specific development program and make both designations compatible.

A public hearing for the request will next be held before the Orange County Planning and Zoning Commission. A recommendation from the PZC then will be forwarded to the County Commission.

No specific date has been set.

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Heather Seward, who has lived in Lake Cawood for nine years, said she has seen a young man on a motorcycle get hit and killed, as well as her son’s best friend, who was traveling on a moped, get hit by a car. She said she has witnessed lights being run on multiple occasions.

“We really need to start focusing on the safety of the area and the students,” Seward said. “We really cannot add more cars or people to this area.”

Some residents expressed interest in restricting the proposed connection into Summerport to bicycles and pedestrians. Residents also inquired about traffic-calming design features such as speed tables, landscapes or roundabouts for the connector.

Applicant representatives said a traffic study could take place but were not sure when that would be.

Residents expressed concerns the study would take place during summer or not in the busy hours of school arrival and dismissal, which would result in inaccurate calculations.

“I felt like this meeting, we were getting a lot of cryptic information,” Consalvo said. “We weren’t getting a straight answer to our questions.

“Ultimately, they’re in the business to make money, and I get that, but we are trying to keep our community safe,” she said. “I understand there’s going to be growth and

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GLOBAL ANGEL WINGS PROJECT The Global Angel Wings Project originated in Los Angeles in 2012. Artist Colette Miller said she launched the project to “remind humanity that we are the angels of Earth.” Before long, with no prompting, people began posing with the wings and shared the photos on social media. Since then, Miller has painted wings globally in the United States, Kenya, Australia, Japan, Dubai and more. Though some are commissioned and others gifted, the wings themselves are free and unowned by anyone, including Miller herself.

Courtesy photo

Uplifting experience Art students from The First Academy came together Friday, Feb. 18, to create the town of Windermere’s newest icon, the “Wings of Windermere” mural on the side of Vintage Realty.

ANNABELLE SIKES STAFF WRITER

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popular artistic trend is making its way into the town of Windermere.

Art students from The First Academy, Vintage Realty Group LLC, the town of Windermere and the Orange County Library System partnered to create the town’s newest treasure, the “Wings of Windermere” mural, Friday, Feb. 18.

The mural, located on the side wall of the Vintage Realty building on Main Street and East Fifth Avenue in Windermere, features a plethora of popping colors and creative textures in the formation of three sets of angel wings.

The National Art Honor Society and National Junior Art Honor Society students from the middle and upper school said the wings can represent anything — home, freedom, happiness, growth, faith and more.

STORYWALK

The story behind the mural began with Leisa Caravello, assistant manager at the Windermere branch of the Orange County Library System.

Caravello said the branch was planning a StoryWalk based around the book, “Make Something Beautiful,” when she got the idea.

The OCLS’ StoryWalk is a selfguided, outdoor reading experience that invites families to stroll along

while reading a book posted on a popular walking path in the community.

She said she chose the book for the event because of its exterior beauty and the beauty the story holds within. “This book is about a community coming together through the creation of this mural, and we wanted to do the same for the town,” Caravello said.

“Make Something Beautiful” follows the story of protagonist Mira, who decides to paste her drawing of a sun on one of the dark walls of an alley on her way back from school — just to bring brightness to the smiles of her neighbors.

The force of the sun’s attraction transforms the streets and the lives of their neighbors forever.

The book is based on the true story of Rafael and Candice López, who turned the alleys of the East Village in San Diego into art canvases and the darkness of their neighborhood into a world of possible hope and beauty.

PARTNER PROJECT

Caravello explained Vintage Realty has selected different schools for the past 10 years to paint its wall. She said the business usually selects the school during the holidays. For example, TFA was chosen to paint a reindeer image on the walls just a few short months ago for the holidays.

When Caravello presented the idea to TFA Art Director Cynthia Collins, she said the school loved it.

“I thought, ‘Oh, angel wings — that

fits perfectly in with our whole vision for art and everything else,’” Collins said.

After working with Town Manager Robert Smith to put the idea in place, Caravello said the Town Council members approved the project and the painting turned from an idea into reality.

“This is a great partnership, and having partners is very important to us,” she said. “If we are all doing great things, we should be able to support each other and share them in the community.”

TAKING FLIGHT

The main wings are giant and stand proud in the middle of the mural with white and textured shades of blue.

Two smaller sets of wings, for children or their pets, stand on either side.

TFA student Lydia Erickson, who worked on the texturing of the main wings, said she decided to get involved because she knew of the trend happening across the world and thought it was a great opportunity to showcase that art really is for everyone.

“I love the endless possibilities there are in art,” Erickson said. “I love that there’s always so much to learn and you can always create something new.”

Sophomore Margaret Madonna, who worked on the smaller orange wings on the right side, agreed, saying she thought being part of the project was a special experience.

She said art gives her an outlet and is a wonderful form of self-expression.

“It’s such an emotional release sometimes to just get what’s in your head out onto a piece of paper, or

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TFA student Margaret Madonna worked on a pair of wings.

“All of us need hope, and everyone’s going to look at it a little differently — no matter where they are in their life, and in their faith — but I know that the people that have a faith are going to see this as angel wings. The wings represent taking flight and rising above your circumstances.”

— Cynthia Collins, TFA art director

painting; it’s just really calming for me,” she said. “I also love that people who walk or drive by look at it and it puts a smile on their face.”

The special StoryWalk took place Monday, Feb. 21.

Participants started at the Windermere library branch and took part in the walk, an art project and photo opportunities at the newly painted wings on the Vintage Realty building, and at the library, where a set of wings was also painted on the porch.

Collins said she sees hope when she looks at the wings.

“All of us need hope, and everyone’s going to look at it a little differently — no matter where they are in their life, and in their faith — but I know that the people that have a faith are going to see this as angel wings,” she said.

Caravello said she hopes to plan a StoryWalk at TFA for the younger students in the future.

“When I look at the wings, they’re just so uplifting, and the thought that they can bring people together is what truly excites me,” she said.

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THURSDAY, MARCH 3, 2022

After invasion, mission pivots AMY QUESINBERRY COMMUNITY EDITOR

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“Road to Serfdom,” 1944 Editor and Publisher / Michael Eng, meng@OrangeObserver.com Design Editor / Jessica Eng, jeng@OrangeObserver.com Community Editor / Amy Quesinberry, amyq@OrangeObserver.com Sports Editor /Chris Martucci, cmartucci@OrangeObserver.com Staff Writer / Annabelle Sikes, asikes@OrangeObserver.com Multimedia Advertising Executives / Iggy Collazo, iggy@OrangeObserver.com Cyndi Gustafson, advertising@OrangeObserver.com

MISSION 823

THE PIVOT

Shawn Sullivan serves as CEO and president, and Amy Sullivan is the CFO. He handles the field work, and she works in the office. They have a much larger team in Ukraine, and they are in contact daily.

Shawn Sullivan travels to Ukraine six or eight times a year and was last there Thursday, Feb. 24 — the day Russia began its attack. He got out

Creative Services / Lindsay Cannizzaro, lcannizzaro@OrangeObserver.com Advertising Operations Manager / Allison Brunelle, abrunelle@OrangeObserver.com

TO HELP Courtesy photo

Shawn Sullivan, far right, has built relationships with the Ukrainian people.

just before the chaos began.

“Immediately after I finished that team trip, I got home, and the war started almost immediately nationwide,” he said. “That’s when we started to pivot almost immediately to refugee transport and shelter. We’re providing food and shelter and water and anything else they need. Transport to the border when possible; transport from dangerous areas to our safe location in the west.”

Worried about his friends who are like family, he hopes to return as soon as possible.

“We’ll wait until the conflict subsides, at least to a scenario where we feel it is safe to travel,” he said.

“We’ll return with triage and relief teams almost immediately.”

THE NEED

Long-term support will be needed, Shawn Sullivan said.

“Almost everything we need in the humanitarian supply chain is available at the western borders where Ukraine meets Europe … so if we need clothing, furniture, household goods, we have access to container goods,” he said. “Right now, we need funding for a few things that are

absolutely critical right now.”

Funding is crucial to continue the humanitarian efforts, and monetary donations will help in three ways, he said. Establishing a trust fund in the hands of Ukrainian staff members will allow them to continue caring for and feeding the refugees. It costs about $5,000 per month to support two facilities, which currently are full. Mission 823 has two smaller vehicles but is in need of two passenger vans, priced at about $16,000 each, so they can shuttle more people to safety. The third immediate need is to have enough money to finish construction on a 4,000-squarefoot home in the Carpathian region of western Ukraine. It originally was designated for orphan children but now will be used to house refugees.

“We need about $4,000 or $5,000 to finish the home, and then we can allow refugees to come and stay with us,” Shawn Sullivan said.

“We need people to pray and support,” he said. “This is going to be a very, very long recovery, years. This has literally changed the face of Ukraine, and I will spend the rest of my life helping with recovery.

“I’ve given my life to Ukraine, so the people were talking about, we

Winter Garden leaders delay vote on new boundaries City commissioners will resume discussion on new voting boundaries at their next meeting March 10.

ANNABELLE SIKES STAFF WRITER

Winter Garden commissioners delayed taking action regarding new voting district boundaries after two commissioners asked for more time to view the report produced by the city’s appointed districting commission.

The City Commission was scheduled to vote on adopting the report at its regular meeting, Thursday, Feb. 24.

However, District 2 Commissioner Ron Mueller motioned to postpone the second reading of the ordinance.

That was seconded by District 4 Commissioner Colin Sharman.

Mueller explained the charter allows the commission to go over the redistricting for up to 120 days before the next city election, which would be in December. He said he hasn’t had the time to go through all the changes yet and would like the opportunity to meet with GIS personnel to further discuss the map.

Although he said he believes the committee did a great job, he has some questions and said he doesn’t understand the need to push the matter because it is not due for months.

District 1 Commissioner Lisa Bennett questioned the delay, stating commissioners had appointed the

“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

hurches throughout West Orange County were sharing the news Sunday about a locally based mission group that is concentrating all its efforts on sheltering and caring for some of the hundreds of thousands of refugees fleeing from Ukraine after last week’s Russian invasion.

Mission 823 works with Ukrainian orphans and at-risk children — but last week its mission changed suddenly when the Donbas War escalated, sending residents of the Eastern European country scrambling for shelter and safety.

Shawn and Amy Sullivan created Mission 823 as a nonprofit in 2018, but they have been dedicating their life to the country and its people for decades. The former Ocoee residents, who now live in Clermont, started the mission after Shawn Sullivan accompanied an acquaintance on a trip to Ukraine in 1995, a journey that changed his life, he said.

“We had been working with orphans and refugees from the war on a lower scale because, obviously, it wasn’t a nationwide crisis at that point,” Shawn Sullivan said. “The Donbas War has been going on for eight years. We’ve been receiving children at our youth camps who have been traumatized. Refugees’ children have come to our camps.”

The Sullivans felt called to Eastern Europe and took a great leap of faith to move there with their two children. They lived in Kyiv, the capital of Ukraine, and catered to the needs of the country’s least fortunate children.

“It’s expanded over the last 18 years … to get to the point where we focused all our work on Ukraine,” Shawn Sullivan said.

The Sullivans named their organization Mission 823 after Psalms 82:3-4: “Defend the weak and the fatherless; uphold the cause of the poor and the oppressed. Rescue the weak and the needy; deliver them from the hand of the wicked.”

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districting board who were unanimous in their decision that the map was a good submittal and did not break up neighborhoods.

“We had three months or so when we were meeting to ask questions and we had a month since the last,” she said.

Sharman said he was to meet with the city manager and staff this week, but the manager was unavailable because of medical issues.

He said the map, which would aim to make a greater percentage a minority district, he has in mind is completely non-self-serving, and although it may not make the cut, he would like the opportunity to at least explore it.

“I don’t know if what I was envisioning would even be possible with the numbers but I haven’t had the opportunity to do it,” he said.

District 3 Commissioner Mark Maciel suggested the commission complete the discussion so the ordinance is not further delayed.

Mayor John Rees said he believes the commission appointed the committee and had the opportunity to go to the meetings and go through the map.

“When we appoint them, we want them to come up with the boundaries and the districts that they think, without any influence from an indi-

vidual because, to me, I think it gerrymandering, so I always hold this at an arm’s length,” Rees said. “I understand that they went through all the meetings and all the work in coming up with this, and I just didn’t feel like it’s this commission’s job … to start nitpicking it.”

Rees said he doesn’t believe his opinion on the matter will change.

“If any of you felt like you needed more time, I would grant you that when there’s not an urgent need to do that; it wouldn’t matter what your reason was,” Mueller said.

After much discussion, the commission approved delaying the second ordinance to the next meeting on Thursday, March 10, 4-1, with Rees dissenting.

PENSION, RETIREMENT PLANS

The commission heard the second reading of two proposed ordinances relating to pension and retirement plans for both general employees and firefighters and police officers.

The general employee plan proposes two basic changes which include changing the Board of Trustees term from serving for two years to serving for four years and increasing the period of the Deferred Retirement Option Plan’s participation from 36 months to 60 months.

The firefighter and police officer pension plan changes mirror the general employee pension in relation to the change of term length and D.R.O.P.

To make a donation, visit mission823.com/ukraine-emergency-relief-fund/ or send a check to Shawn Sullivan, Mission 823, P.O. Box 120748, Clermont, Florida 34712.

All money will be placed in a trust fund to aid in the feeding and care of Ukranian refugees, to help purchase more transport vehicle to move refugees to safe spaces, and to complete construction on a 4,000-squarefoot shelter originally built to house orphans.

love these people, we’ve given our life to them,” Shawn Sullivan said.

The nonprofit’s original mission was working with orphans and at-risk youth in Eastern Europe.

About 15,000 children age out of the orphanage system annually. Of those, 60% of the girls will enter into prostitution, 70% of the boys will turn to crime to survive and 10% of these children will commit suicide, according to Mission 823.

About 106,000 children currently live in more than 750 state institutions, and another 800,000 children are refugees from the war zone, according to the website. All of these youth are at high risk and with limited opportunities, making them more susceptible to human trafficking.

IN OTHER NEWS n Winter Garden commissioners recognized Shepherd’s Hope for its 25th anniversary, which took place Feb. 14, with a special proclamation paying tribute to the organization’s efforts for the community. n City commissioners approved the Winter Garden Little League Opening Day at Little League Complex. n The Winter Garden commission re-approved a resolution of the Winter Garden Community Redevelopment Agency recommending extension and modification of the plan for a period of 10 years. n City commissioners approved a resolution adopting the Orange County local mitigation strategy resolution. n Winter Garden commissioners heard a recommendation to approve Assignment of Easement from Orange County to the City of Winter Garden for Hyde Park Drainage Ditch. n The Winter Garden commission heard a recommendation to approve a site plan for a new headquarters for NEI Construction at 751 Garden Commerce Parkway. n City commissioners approved a resolution in support of a 1% transportation surtax referendum on the Nov. 8, countywide ballot for consideration by the voters.

CONTACT US

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.

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Work in Your Own Backyard!

CITY OF

WINTER GARDEN IS HIRING!

Tired of commuting?

Looking for more time to do the things you love?

Work where you live and add to your quality of life.

Photos by Amy Quesinberry

Jeane Boast, left, and Denise Mead are the owners of Swalty Sisters, a new downtown boutique.

Whether you like to give gifts that are classy or a little sassy, the new boutique owned by longtime friends has a variety of options.

AMY QUESINBERRY

24 E. Joiner St., Winter Garden PHONE: (407) 347-3741 EMAIL: swaltysisters@ gmail.com WEBSITE: swaltysisters. com HOURS: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Saturdays, and Mondays by appointment.

As our community continues to grow and thrive, the City of Winter Garden is seeking qualified individuals that exemplify the “Winter Garden Way” of providing top-notch service that residents expect, deserve, and appreciate. Candidates should possess a motivated mindset and a can-do attitude to find creative solutions, while always putting the citizens first.

Winter Garden is a great place to both live and work.

Explore the job opportunities and the impressive benefit package at www.cwgdn.com and click on Jobs at bottom of home page.

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Swalty Sisters shop opens in Winter Garden

SWALTY SISTERS

Denise Mead and Jeane Boast aren’t really sisters, but their friendship spans several decades, and they have shared so many of life’s ups and downs together that they might as well be.

Now they are sharing something new.

The longtime friends have collaborated on an idea that culminated in opening a new business in downtown Winter Garden. Swalty Sisters opened Feb. 11 with a storefront full of sweet and salty, classy and sassy, eclectic gifts for all the different personalities in your friend group.

Shoppers can find personalized merchandise such as wooden plates with local ZIP codes, cutting boards that can be personalized with a loved one’s recipe, Florida-centric items and initialed stationery. There are oversized coffee mugs, stuffed animals in the shapes of vegetables, kitschy dishes and artwork.

Hand-crafted popcorn, candy and “spirit sippers” are offered for folks looking to please the palate. If you aren’t sure what to buy, Boast and Mead will put together gift baskets with a variety of merchandise.

Gifts for men are available as well, including soaps and colognes, poker cards and chips, flasks, golf divots and leather products.

“We try to have gifts for everyone,” Boast said. “I have three boys, and (Mead) has a son.

They were adamant that we have something boys would like.”

The owners like to feature local artists, and much of the merchandise is created in West Orange County. One of their friends can customize the cups and mugs, she embroiders the spa wraps, and she soon will have personalized items representing local schools.

Shoppers who are looking for something specific can even make suggestions to the owners, who always are on the lookout for new products.

They each have their favorite items in the store. Mead loves the assortment of party hats; Boast, who is a self-proclaimed paper person, is partial to the stationery. Both like the Mouth Party candies, which includes their OMG (“Original Mom Group”) sweets.

“We say we’re legends in our own mind,” Mead said.

The two first tossed around the idea of opening a shop after attending a shower for a friend’s third baby and seeing all the thoughtful and personal gifts she received. The idea became a plan after being asked several times by the owner of Geegee’s Gems if they would like to buy her shop.

That owner, Gina Rice, ran the store for fun and kept limited hours, and Boast and Mead knew they could add their personal touch and turn it into a successful gift shop.

Prior to opening their boutique, Mead and Boast already were frequent downtown visitors. They are part of a moms group that started when their children, now in their 20s, were in preschool. The mothers and their children all are still close friends.

“We started taking our kids to Scoops for ice cream all the time,” Boast said. “We took our kids every Friday. So, this is naturally where we always come.”

They went hunting for new merchandise and chose a name.

“We figure everyone’s a little salty, a little sweet at different parts of the day,” Boast said.

And although her Facebook page claims she’s the sweet one, Mead admitted: “I’m probably the salty one in the partnership.”

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COMMUNITY EDITOR

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THURSDAY, MARCH 3, 2022

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Oakland seeks to connect golf cart areas

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The town is looking into more connectivity in the community, as well as a link to Winter Garden’s golf cart areas, which includes downtown.

Get Out and Enjoy Spring

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AMY QUESINBERRY COMMUNITY EDITOR

The Oakland Town Commission held a workshop prior to its regular meeting Feb. 22 to discuss the existing golf cart ordinance and what changes could possibly be made. The catalyst to this discussion is Phase 7 of Oakland Park, Town Manager Steve Koontz said.

The town has had a golf cart ordinance since 2005, when there were fewer neighborhoods and residents.

Currently, golf carts are not allowed on or across West Colonial Drive; on Oakland Avenue, South Tubb Street and Remington Road; on private property without written consent; or on the West Orange Trail.

The next phase of this community has three access points, one of which “is going to open up the gates to Winter Garden,” Koontz said.

By expanding the designated areas for golf carts, it would allow for more connectivity between neighborhoods, as well as the Oakland Nature Preserve.

Koontz said he has researched the city of Winter Garden’s golf cart ordinance and wants to create a similar one in Oakland. This way, both municipalities would have the same rules and allow for a smoother transition when traveling between them on golf carts.

“In the future, as things happen and development comes to Oakland, we have an opportunity for people from Winter Garden to come to Oakland,” he said. “Hopefully it works both ways, people going to Winter Garden, people coming to Oakland.”

The goal is to have the ordinance completed prior to the opening of the roads in Oakland Park’s Phase 7 this summer.

The update also would address golf cart equipment and minimum standards, hours of operation, age limit for drivers, speed limit, and a drop-off and pick-up plan for families of Oakland Avenue Charter School.

Several issues came up in the discussion: How to connect Johns Cove and Johns Landing to the town center, and how to handle golf carts going

COMING THURSDAY

MARCH 10

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through the industrial areas on the west side of town.

No decisions were made at the workshop, but the subject will be added to a future meeting agenda for a more in-depth discussion.

BRILEY FARMS

At the regular Town Commission meeting, elected officials approved two ordinances pertaining to the annexation and Comprehensive Plan amendment for the 45.44-acre Briley Farms properties. The land is owned

by Voss Family Holdings (five parcels), Jefferson R. Voss (two parcels) and Jefferson Rich Voss Trust (one parcel).

The amendment to the Comprehensive Plan would change the property from Orange County Rural to Oakland Low-Density Residential.

The land abuts residential property to the east and south and the Oakland Nature Preserve to the west.

The applicants have said they are dedicating a park on the southern end of the property along the West Orange Trail and donating a piece of land to ONP. “That property that is to be dedicated to Oakland Nature Preserve has a beautiful canopy, and (it’s) a beautiful piece of property,” Koontz said.

The development plan is for a row of lakeview lots on Lake Apopka, custom homes on the large lots east of Jefferson Street and developer homes on the west side.

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n A budget transfer of $436,721 from the reserve fund into the redundant water well project was authorized, bringing the total funding available for the project to nearly $1.19 million. In addition, the commission awarded the bid to KAT Construction and Materials to build the water treatment plant redundant well.

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n The commission passed the second reading of an ordinance that establishes a temporary moratorium, until July 24, on multiple-family development, which includes accepting and processing new applications for special-exception use, rezonings, Comp Plan amendments and other development applications or plans proposing to increase multi-family dwellings.

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OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, MARCH 3, 2022

7

Mayor Jerry Demings proposes sales tax to fund traffic solutions

SPORTD EDITOR

Fifteen booths and various Orange County representatives presented myriad solutions to the county’s ongoing — and worsening — transportation issues for the county’s Transportation Open House, held Monday, Feb. 28, at Windermere High School.

But, officials said, none of the solutions come cheap.

So, in addition to the renderings and bullet points, Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings also proposes a transportation sales tax, which he said would help build the funds necessary to install the plan the county is proposing.

Billed as the Transportation Funding Initiative, the proposal lists many ways transportation infrastructure in Orange County can be improved. A major part of this proposal is to bolster public transportation, such as doubling the size of the Lynx bus system with more routes and longer operating hours, as well as adding to the SunRail line.

Another key part of the initiative is making the roads safer for bicyclists and pedestrians. A study conducted by a national road safety institute ranked Florida the No. 1 most dangerous state for pedestrians.

“Orange County is a hub for the region,” Demings said. “We can’t address traffic outside of Orange County if we don’t take care of it inside.”

The current sales tax rate in Orange County is 6.5%, which is the lowest of the four counties surrounding the

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Orlando area, Demings said. Osceola County has the highest at 7.5%, while Lake and Seminole counties are at 7%.

Bay Lake and Lake Buena Vista would be exempt from the tax because they are charter cities.

Demings said tourists would be the most affected by this potential sales tax increase. County estimates showed tourists paid about 51% of taxes in Orange County. The exceptions to this increase would be groceries, prescriptions and medications, medical supplies and utilities.

To get this proposal on the November ballot, the paperwork has to be submitted by May 12. The county government also would be sharing the revenue made from this tax with municipalities.

“If we are successful in Orange County, then others will follow,” Demings said.

According to county officials, the population of the entire county, which consists of 1,000 square miles and 13 individual municipalities, is about 1.43 million residents by the latest estimates, with many more coming every week.

Orange County is now the fifth-largest county in the state — behind only three South Florida counties and Duval County.

The Transportation Open House featured 15 vendor booths from various Orange County Government agencies and the cities of Winter Garden and Oakland to answer questions about some ongoing projects, as well.

“This is the beginning of the discussion, not the end,” Orange County District 1 Commissioner Nicole Wilson said. “We’re excited to hear what you all have to say and look forward to working with the community as we move forward with this.”

The county will be having five additional meetings in March with residents to gather their thoughts and opinions. Residents also can fill out a survey at ocfl.net/Transportation.

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The Orange County mayor hopes voters will endorse the tax, which he said will fund improvements to local public transportation.

8

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OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 3, 2022

REAL ESTATE

OBSERVER

Casa Del Lago estate sells for $5.5 million A

home in the Casa Del

HORIZON WEST

Lago community near

The home at 6412 Swanson St., Windermere, sold Feb. 25, for $1.25 million. Built in 2016, it has six bedrooms, four baths and 4,492 square feet of living area. Days on market: Six.

Windermere topped all West Orange-area residential realestate transactions from Feb.

ENCLAVE

talcino Circle, Windermere,

The home at 17550 Black Rail St., Windermere, sold Feb. 25, for $1.2 million. Built in 2015, it has five bedrooms, four baths and 4,908 square feet of living area. Days on market: 35.

sold Feb. 22, for $5.5 mil-

GROVE RESORT

19 to 25.

The home at 12264 Mon-

half-baths and 7,875 square

The condo at 14501 Grove Resort Ave., No. 3432, Winter Garden, sold Feb. 21, for $300,000. Built in 2018, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,265 square feet of living area. Days on market: 22.

feet of living area. Days on

HAWKSMOOR

lion. Built in 2017, it has four bedrooms, four baths, three

market: Two. These are the highestselling homes in each community in West Orange.

GOTHA

PEARL LAKE PARK

The home at 1879 Twin Lake Drive, Gotha, sold Feb. 23, for $490,048.

Built in 2021, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,520 square feet of living area. Days on market: Five.

SADDLEBROOK

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The home at 3636 Pompano Court, Gotha, sold Feb. 22, for $487,500.

Built in 1995, it has five bedrooms, three baths and 2,603 square feet of living area. Days on market: Four.

The townhouse at 16432 Prairie School Drive, Winter Garden, sold Feb. 22, for $386,990. Built in 2021, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,070 square feet of living area.

INDEPENDENCE/ SIGNATURE LAKES

The townhouse at 5456 New Independence Parkway, Winter Garden, sold Feb. 22, for $380,000.

Built in 2011, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,755 square feet of living area.

The townhouse at 5619 Water Rose Road, Winter Garden, sold Feb. 25, for $402,000. Built in 2016, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,617 square feet of living area. Days on market: Two. The townhouse at 14421 Vashons Way, Winter Garden, sold Feb. 23, for $307,000. Built in 2005, it has two bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,088 square feet of living area. Days on market: Four.

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OrangeObserver.com

OBSERVER

JESSICA MANOR

The home at 2002 Lady Ave., Ocoee, sold Feb. 24, for $246,000.

Built in 1982, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,378 square feet of living area. Days on market: Three.

corcoran.com

LAKE SAWYER SOUTH

The home at 13249 Charfield St., Windermere, sold Feb. 22, for $685,000. Built in 2010, it has five bedrooms, five-and-one-half baths and 3,611 square feet of living area.

The townhouse at 9007 Legado Drive, Lot 37, Windermere, sold Feb. 23, for $425,000. Built in 2021, it has three bedrooms, two-andone-half baths and 1,771 square feet of living area. Days on market: 21.

LAKES OF WINDERMERE

ORCHARD HILLS

The home at 6953 Tettenhall Lane, Windermere, sold Feb. 22, for $544,000. Built in 2007, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,452 square feet of living area.

Days on market: Five.

LAKESHORE PRESERVE

The home at 15505 Shorebird Lane, Winter Garden, sold Feb. 22, for $2.5 million. Built in 2020, it has six bedrooms, six-and-one-half baths and 5,287 square feet of living area.

Days on market: 122.

The home at 15748 Cutter Sail Place, Winter Garden, sold Feb. 24, for $1,054,894. Built in 2022, it has five bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths and 3,811 square feet of living area. Days on market: 20.

LEGADO

The townhouse at 9037 Legado Drive, Lot 42, Windermere, sold Feb. 25, for $432,500. Built in 2021, it has three bedrooms, two-andone-half baths and 1,771 square feet of living area. Days on market: 24.

The home at 4231 Oak Lodge Way, Winter Garden, sold Feb. 25, for $575,000. Built in 2015, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 2,821 square feet of living area. Days on market: One. SUMMERPORT

The home at 4956 River Gem Ave., Windermere, sold Feb. 24, for $590,000. Built in 2004, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,741 square feet of living area.

Days on market: Three.

WINDERMERE SOUND

The home at 13166 Kegan St., Windermere, sold Feb. 21, for $480,000.

Built in 2015, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 2,458 square feet of living area.

Days on market: 15.

WINDERMERE TRAILS

The home at 9048 Arbors Edge Trail, Windermere, sold Feb. 23, for $690,000. Built in 2017, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,987 square feet of living area. Days on market: Two.

WINDING BAY PRESERVE

The townhouse at 11138 Hanlon Terrace Alley, Winter Garden, sold Feb. 25, for $386,000. Built in 2020, it has three bedrooms, two-andone-half baths and 1,732 square feet of living area. Days on market: 46.

OCOEE

CROSS CREEK

The home at 455 Fern Meadow Loop, Ocoee, sold Feb. 25, for $405,000. Built in 1997, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,516 square feet of living area. Days on market: Five.

ESTHER HEIGHTS

The home at 610 Melva Ave., Ocoee, sold Feb. 24, for $132,000.

Built in 1944, it has three bedrooms, one bath and 1,176 square feet of living area. Days on market: Nine.

EAGLES LANDING

The home at 2735 Westyn Cove Lane, Ocoee, sold Feb. 25, for $598,000. Built in 2018, it has five bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 3,664 square feet of living area. Days on market: 10.

The home at 348 Westyn Bay Blvd., Ocoee, sold Feb. 25, for $575,000.

Built in 2012, it has four bedrooms, four baths and 3,618 square feet of living area. Days on market: Eight.

THURSDAY, MARCH 3, 2022

SNAPSHOT Total Sales: 51 High Sale Price: $5.5 million Low Sale Price: $132,000 WESMERE

The home at 7 Heather Green Court, Ocoee, sold Feb. 21, for $460,000. Built in 1992, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,202 square feet of living area. Days on market: 88.

LAKE OLYMPIC TOWNHOMES

WESTYN BAY

RESERVE

WINDERMERE

The townhouse at 634 Olympic Drive, Ocoee, sold Feb. 23, for $189,000. Built in 1986, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,081 square feet of living area. Days on market: 10.

The home at 1407 Montheath Circle, Ocoee, sold Feb. 24, for $420,000. Built in 2000, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 1,858 square feet of living area. Days on market: One. RESERVE AT MEADOW LAKE

The home at 1318 Glenleigh Drive, Ocoee, sold Feb. 22, for $295,000.

Built in 2010, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,774 square feet of living area. Days on market: Four.

TEMPLE GROVE ESTATES

The home at 2314 Greywall Ave., Ocoee, sold Feb. 24, for $372,000.

Built in 1995, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 1,923 square feet of living area. Days on market: 37.

TWIN LAKES MANOR

The home at 605 Spring Creek Drive, Ocoee, sold Feb. 25, for $280,000. Built in 1974, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,369 square feet of living area. Days on market: Two. VILLAGES OF WEST OAK

The home at 1729 Cambridge Village Court, Ocoee, sold Feb. 21, for $424,000. Built in 2001, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,138 square feet of living area.

Days on market: Six.

The home at 452 Scarlatti Court, Ocoee, sold Feb. 22, for $289,000.

Built in 2007, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,549 square feet of living area. Days on market: Three.

BELMERE VILLAGE

The home at 11204 Rapallo Lane, Windermere, sold Feb. 23, for $585,000. Built in 2003, it has five bedrooms, four baths and 3,022 square feet of living area. Days on market: Nine.

ISLEWORTH

The home at 4704 Joanna Garden Court, Windermere, sold Feb. 23, for $2.4 million. Built in 2006, it has three bedrooms, three baths, two half-baths and 4,261 square feet of living area. Days on market: 80.

KEENE’S POINTE

The home at 11425 Claymont Circle, Windermere, sold Feb. 23, for $1.22 million. Built in 1999, it has five bedrooms, four baths and 3,684 square feet of living area. Days on market: Two. WATERFORD POINTE

The home at 12702 Water Point Blvd., Windermere, sold Feb. 22, for $1.35 million. Built in 1994, it has four bedrooms, three-andone-half baths and 4,318 square feet of living area. Days on market: Seven.

SEE TRANSACTIONS PAGE 10

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9

The home at 112 Olympus Drive, Ocoee, sold Feb. 25, for $590,000.

Built in 2000, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,763 square feet of living area. Days on market: 52.

LAKE OLYMPIA CLUB

The home at 12264 Montalcino Circle, Windermere, sold Feb. 22, for $5.5 million. This custom Coudriet modern home features about 160 feet of water frontage on Lake Burden and panoramic views throughout.

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OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 3, 2022

REAL ESTATE

OBSERVER

coldwellbankerhomes.com

The home at 17541 Deer Isle Circle, Winter Garden, sold Feb. 22, for $1.45 million.

It was the largest transaction in Winter Garden from Feb. 19 to 25.

WINTER GARDEN

STONE CREEK

The home at 15119 Black Lion Way, Winter Garden, sold Feb. 22, for $445,000. Built in 2003, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,556 square feet of living area.

Days on market: Four.

ALEXANDER RIDGE

The home at 2105 Cestius Road, Winter Garden, sold Feb. 28, for $550,000. Built in 2015, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,277 square feet of living area. Days on market: Three.

SUMMERLAKE GROVES

The townhouse at 8025 Jeremy Joseph Alley, Winter Garden, sold Feb. 25, for $450,000. Built in 2017, it has three bedrooms, two-andone-half baths and 1,858 square feet of living area. Days on market: One.

DEER ISLAND

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 15304 Tilden Road, Winter Garden Sundays: 9:45 AM All Ages www.FBCWG.org Starke Lake Baptist Church Pastor Jeff Pritchard PO Box 520 611 W Ave., Ocoee (407) 656-2351 www.StarkeLakeBaptist.org Victory Baptist Church & Christian Academy 1601 A.D. Mims Rd, Ocoee FL 34761 (407) 656-3097 www.VBCOCOEE.com Sunday: 11AM & 6 PM Wednesday: 7 PM

The home at 17541 Deer Isle Circle, Winter Garden, sold Feb. 22, for $1.45 million. Built in 2012, it has four bedrooms, four baths and 3,470 square feet of living area.

Days on market: Two.

CHURCH OF GOD

Ocoee Church of God Pastor Thomas Odom 1105 N. Lakewood Ave.,Ocoee (407) 656-8011

TOWNHOMES OF WINTER GARDEN

The condo at 338 Douglas Way, No. 83, Winter Garden, sold Feb. 25, for $200,000. Built in 1988, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 930 square feet of living area. Days on market: Three.

LAKEVIEW PRESERVE

The home at 3344 Buoy Circle, Winter Garden, sold Feb. 25, for $755,000. Built in 2021, it has five bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 3,617 square feet of living area. Days on market: 21.

EPISCOPAL

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

TWINWATERS

The home at 1356 Union Club Drive, Winter Garden, sold Feb. 23, for $650,000. Built in 2008, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,240 square feet of living area.

The home at 16635 Toccoa Row, Winter Garden, sold Feb. 22, for $948,000. Built in 2017, it has five bedrooms, four baths and 3,849 square feet of living area. Days on market: Two.

OAKS AT BRANDY LAKE

WINTER GARDEN

OAKLAND PARK

METHODIST

First United Methodist www.fumcwg.org 125 N. Lakeview Ave., Winter Garden (407) 656-1135 Services: 9 AM Contemporary 11:15 AM Traditional Also viewable on YouTube

The home at 629 Bending Oak Trail, Winter Garden, sold Feb. 25, for $589,000. Built in 2007, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 3,133 square feet of living area. Days on market: 10.

The home at 120 Tildenville School Road, Winter Garden, sold Feb. 22, for $270,000. Built in 1926, it has two bedrooms, one bath and 1,133 square feet of living area. Days on market: 84.

NON-DENOMINATIONAL Purpose Church Orlando 13640 W Colonial Dr. Ste 110, Winter Garden (407) 654-9661 Sunday Service: 10:05 AM Sunday Brazilian Service: 7 PM Saturday Service: 6 PM www.purposechurchorlando.org

For those ready to take advantage of our Moving Forward Program, the following is a partial list of assistance available through our Program.

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OrangeObserver.com

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THURSDAY, MARCH 3, 2022

11

Annual Windermere show spotlights local artists

T

he town of Windermere and Windermere Arts hosted the annual Windermere Fine Art Show Saturday, Feb. 26, and Sunday, Feb. 27, in downtown Windermere. Local families, friends and four legged furries gathered in the sunny weather to support more than 80 artists — more than 30 under age 18 — and their creations in clay, pottery, painting, sculpting, woodworking and more. The sixth annual show featured awards, vendors, live entertainment, food, drinks and even live performances from Amanda Finnegan’s Finnegan Academy of Irish Dance and jazz music from Richard LaFrate.

— ANNABELLE SIKES

Hannah Brady helped to kick off the day by singing the national anthem.

Above: Colleen Ardaman set up her artwork in the Windermere Town Hall.

Left: Juliette Yang, Vivienne Yang and Sibi Smith enjoyed colorful popsicles from one of the local vendors.

Eli Weck got creative with his ceramic skills.

Right: George Barham showed off his woodworking skills at his booth.

SUMMER

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THESE OLD TIMES

W EST O RANG E HISTO RY

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 3, 2022

|

FROM THE WINTER GARDEN HERITAGE FOUNDATION FROM THE ARCHIVES

MARCH 6, 1969 The front page of the March 6, 1969, Winter Garden Times announced the news of an earlyevening blaze that destroyed a warehouse at the corner of East Tilden Street and James Drive.

The warehouse was owned by Youngblood and Sons. Heat from the fire buckled both ends of the building outward, and water hitting the steel turned to steam. Firefighters were on the scene for more than five hours cooling down the ashes and wetting hot spots.

The entire contents of the 35-foot-by-60-foot Quonset hut-type building was destroyed. The largest single loss was an inboard runabout and trailer. Other contents included thousands of cardboard orange juice containers, boxes, tires and fuel tanks.

80 years ago

Local girls enrolled in defense courses at Florida State College for Women were Helen Iserman, taking auto mechanics, and Elizabeth Ezzard, taking communications.

Jack, the five-quart-per-day milk goat of J.Z. Eckles, announced the birth of three normal nanny goats named Mary Pickford, Mae West and Greta Garbo.

50 years ago

The weather wasn’t so good, but the Lakeview High band, under the direction of Harold Cooper, scored a big hit then it played in the Orlando Presents concert series at Eola Park.

Fifty-nine patients in Wing 2 of the Medic Home Health Center in Winter Garden had a lot of spare time and were feeling a little left out. Here’s why: Not long ago, a color TV and stand was donated to Wing I. Those patients were overjoyed, but the patients in Wing 2 were more than a little jealous. They started working to change their situation by making swans out of coat hangers and netting, dolls, and wall plaques that were sold for $2 apiece.

The board members and team mothers of the West Orange Little League Auxiliary met at the home of President Barbara Fulmer. Team mothers were Betty Duppenthaler, Cardinals; Anette Hudson, Cubs; Betty German, Nationals; Connie Joiner, Pirates; Ann Hale, Reds; and Virginia Rogers, Tigers. It was decided that each week, one team mother of the home team would furnish baked goods to be sold in the concession stand. Players were to bring in $3 for the season so they could enjoy a Coke after each game.

ARA TAYLOR, DEC. 20, 1923 TO FEB. 11, 2022 Ara Taylor and Rod Reeves are seen at Davis Pharmacy, reminiscing about her many years behind the soda fountain at the popular local hangout. It was Taylor’s last day working at the business, which was located on West Plant Street where Winter Garden Pizza currently is located. Reeves is a local historian and was the original director of the Winter Garden Heritage Museum and art instructor at Lakeview and West Orange high schools.

e m o c l e W

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.

REFRESH YOUR

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Ocoee Junior High School FFA chapter won a first-place trophy for a second in a row in the schools competition for its agricultural exhibit at the Central Florida Fair. The Winter Garden Elks Cub exhibit won first place in the community agricultural booth competition.

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OrangeObserver.com

OBSERVER

|

THURSDAY, MARCH 3, 2022

Warriors, Wolverines to boogie for bucks West Orange High is holding its Warriorthon Friday night, March 4, and Windermere High follows with an 11-hour dance-a-thon Saturday, March 5.

West Orange High students celebrated their total at a previous Warriorthon.

DETAILS WEST ORANGE HIGH WHEN: 5 to 11 p.m. Friday, March 4 WHERE: 1625 Beulah Road, Winter Garden ENTRANCE FEE: $10 HOW TO DONATE: tinyurl.com/warriorthon2022 WINDERMERE HIGH WHEN: 1 p.m. to midnight Saturday, March 5 WHERE: 5523 Winter Garden Vineland Road, Windermere ENTRANCE FEE: $10 HOW TO DONATE: tinyurl.com/whsdancem2022 Archive photos

Windermere High raised more than $103,000 at its 2020 dance marathon.

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Students at West Orange and Windermere high schools have been fundraising all year for Children’s Miracle Network and Orlando Health Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children, and the culmination of their efforts takes place this weekend with two dance marathons open to the community. WOHS opens its gymnasium doors Friday, and Windermere follows suit Saturday.

The nationwide dance events are hosted by the schools’ Student Government Associations and provide students a chance to reveal and celebrate the total amount raised. Students set up personal campaigns, held in-school and community fundraisers, planned spirit nights, and sought partnerships with local businesses.

West Orange students sold bundt cakes and popcorn, and this week, there will be lunchtime flash mobs and several teachers are getting a pie to the face. Windermere students washed vehicles and held dodge ball tournaments, and many announced they would do a particular stunt — such as eat a hot pepper or dye their hair blue — if they reached their individual fundraising goal.

One Windermere coach joined the excitement and said he will coach a game in a hotdog costume if he reaches his dollar amount.

“While it’s led by students, it’s really become a school and community involvement,” said Evan Brengel, a member of WHS’ peer counseling department.

Students at the University of Central Florida who participate in the Knight-Thon dance marathon will be at the two events for assis-

tance and moral support. In previous years, Knights have operated the makeshift jail in the gym.

Local CMN families are planning to attend and speak to the crowd.

The events include games, contests, food, dancing and talent shows.

Proceeds from the entry fees, games, food and “jail” are included in the total.

“We only started our dance marathon five years ago, but Windermere High was the top first-year program in the nation for a dance marathon,” Brengel said. “We raised $60,000, and we’ve only gone up every year except for the COVID year, when they still raised $86,000.”

In five years, WHS has raised more than $300,000 for CMN, he said.

The goal this year is to raise $105,000.

“I think Windermere’s involvement stems from the passion that one student brought when they first brought this program here,” Brengel said. “One student came to the faculty and said I want to do this. (That was) the initial flame, and it ignited a spark, and it’s never really died down. The want to make a difference in the lives of these kids.”

At West Orange, SGA students Hailey Lampshire and Patrick Golden are leading the event. This is the Warriors’ eighth year of participation. Alicia Light, Student Government co-sponsor, said WOHS was one of the first schools in the area to host a dance marathon.

“They’ve latched on to these kids and helping the community,” she said. “They see the benefit. … It’s been a really important drive for them.”

Students missed out on the dance-a-thon because of COVID-19, but they still held donor drives and raised money. This year’s goal is $30,000.

Puzzle Two Clue: A equals B

COMMUNITY EDITOR

Puzzle One Clue: A equals K

AMY QUESINBERRY

© 2022 NEA, Inc.

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

©2022 Andrews McMeel Syndicate

3-3-22

13

OBSERVER

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OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 3, 2022

373880-1

INFLUENCER OF THE WEEK

14

MARLINES CLARK, OCOEE ELEMENTARY Marlines Clark is the Spanish bilingual paraprofessional at Ocoee Elementary and is assigned to work with second-language learners. She helps students in the lower grades work on their reading skills. But she offers so much more to students and staff. She always is willing to assist and support to make sure tasks are completed.

Whether working with students, assisting in the media center (unpacking resources and materials, and helping with the book fair and inventory) or providing translation for parents in the front office, you always will find her lending a helping hand.

What brought you to your school?

The opportunity to continue helping students was why I came to Ocoee Elementary.

What do you love most about your school?

I love the staff, students and teachers at Ocoee.

What is your motivation?

God motivates me to help others.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

When I’m teaching the kids and see them start to understand, that is very rewarding.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

I like to travel and visit family.

Who was your favorite teacher when you were in school and why?

I went to school in Puerto Rico and was inspired by a principal in high school. Mr. Pagan was his name, and he always helped me be successful.

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

Jesus is the one with superpowers in my life.

If you could only listen to three bands or artists for the rest of your life, what would they be?

I like Christian music.

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

Rice, beans and meat.

Who was your best friend when you were in school?

Mirna was my best friend in school.

What were your extracurricular activities?

I was in chorus in high school.

— AMY QUESINBERRY

your school? If so, please nominate him or her for our Influencer of the Week feature. Nominations can be sent via email to contact@orangeobserver.com.

E s TD. 1958

PREVIEW EVENT

What are your hobbies?

I like traveling, cooking, shopping and being with family and friends.

NOMINATE YOUR INFLUENCER Do you have an “unsung hero” at 375637-1

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

POSITION: Spanish bilingual paraprofessional TIME AT SCHOOL: Six years at Ocoee Elementary, 16 with OCPS

What is your favorite children’s book and why?

I like non-fiction and adventure books, but no specific book stands out to me.

OrangeObserver.com

OBSERVER

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15

THURSDAY, MARCH 3, 2022

OBSERVER SCHOOL ZONE

Foundation celebrates expansion Students, staff, families and friends came together on Thursday, Feb. 24, to cut the ribbon outside the new educational building for arts and academics.

ANNABELLE SIKES STAFF WRITER

Foundation Academy hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony for its new educational building Thursday, Feb. 24, at the Tilden Campus.

The new building, Educational Building One, will host many academic classes including art, band and science.

The building has been in the planning stages for several years, although official work started nine months ago.

“Foundation Academy is thankful to its board, generous donors, steadfast families, but mostly to God for providing for this beautiful new building to open,” Christina Haak, development specialist at the Tilden campus, said.

Keynote speakers included President Dave Buckles; Pastor Tim Grosshans, of First Baptist Church of Winter Garden; science teacher and department head James Campbell; and student and SGA President Mackenzie Daniel.

Although the school has recently added on a multitude of science classes, including AP Chemistry, AP Biology, AP Physics and AP Environmental Science, Campbell said the school is hoping to add an introduction to engineering program next fall.

“We’ve been looking forward to this for a while,” Campbell said. “Our Lord God has provided this. … What we need to do is let Him work through His Holy Spirit, through us, to allow us to take advantage of what we’ve got.”

Daniel said she has been attending the school for five years. During that time, she has seen it go through expansions and changes — while also

Mackenzie Daniel gave a speech about her time at Foundation Academy.

going through her own changes and growth as a Christian.

“At Foundation Academy, I was introduced to Bible classes in the chapel, and I had never been to something like that before,” Daniel said. “Foundation Academy really is unique. All the teachers, like Mr. Campbell for sure, pour into you so much, and they really do love us as students.”

The Foundation Academy Praise Band and Choir engaged guests in a special performance of “Everything to Me” as part of the ceremony’s conclusion.

Buckles invited board members and administration to come forward for the ribbon cutting. After the blue ribbon was cut, guests were invited to tour the building and observe a student showcase in the building.

Students engaged in science classrooms, band students performed under direction, and students’ artwork was on display.

The day was a two-part special, as families and students also headed to the Leiferman Gymnasium for the Foundation Academy Science Fair.

Foundation Academy representatives hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony for its new educational building.

The Praise Band and Choir performed “Everything to Me” as the sun set.

EXPANSION: SET APART The recent expansion is part of the school’s capital campaign project, Expansion: Set Apart.

The project will allow for more students to attend the school and provide students with the most current, and state-of-the-art, facilities and equipment.

The next part of the project is a cafeteria, which is scheduled to break ground this fall. It will serve lunch to the students each day, be used as a worship center for the church on the weekends and serve as a space for the school’s theatrical productions.

Photos by Annabelle Sikes

The Foundation Academy Praise Band and Choir performed at the ceremony.

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HEALTHYWESTORANGE.ORG 2/25/21 10:47 AM

2/25/21 10:

OBSERVER

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OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 3, 2022

The Observer answers kids’ burning curiosities.

BRAINFOOD A dip in the gene pool! I Michael Eng // Editor and Publisher Do you ever wonder why you look just like your dad, while your sister looks just like your mom?

Or maybe, you only have a few similar traits — eye color, for instance — as your parents.

Well, it all comes down to genetics and inherited traits.

Most traits are passed down from your parents; you’ll get one set of genes from your mom and a second from your dad. Each version of each gene is called an allele. Some alleles are dominant — meaning they will show their trait even if you only have one copy of it. Others are recessive — meaning you need two copies of the allele for that trait to show. Brown eyes are dominant, meaning you only

have to have one allele to have brown eyes. On the other hand, blue eyes are recessive, meaning you’d have to get blue-eye alleles from both parents to have blue eyes.

However, other features are not so easy to predict.

Some are influenced by several genes working together.

So, the exact combination is always a surprise. Some say it’s like shuffling a deck of cards. Each time you’re dealt a hand, you’re going to get something different.

MOM

DAD Can you tell which features each child inherited from their parents?

CLEFT CHIN PUNNETT SQUARE

The easiest way to see how genetics works when talking about cleft chins is to use a Punnett square, a simple diagram that shows both your parents’ alleles and the likelihood of you inheriting the cleft chin or not.

In this example, both parents have one dominant (capital C) and one recessive (lowercase C) gene relating to a cleft chin. Each will pass one of them on to you.

In this example, there is a 75% chance you will receive the dominant gene from either your mom or dad (or both!) and only a 25% chance you will receive both recessive genes.

Of course, this would change if one of your parents does not have the dominant gene at all.

C c C CC Cc c cC cc

st Born Child r i F

Born Ch cond ild Se

r ird Bo n Child Th

KEY Red – Dad Green – Mom C – Dominate c – Recessive

WHO NOSE?

Yes, you likely inherited your nose shape from your parents (and depending on how different their noses are, you could have any combination of their schnozzes.

However, scientists also say noses likely have been shaped over time by the climate in which your ancestors lived.

In the 1800s, a British anatomist and anthropologist Arthur Thompson discovered long, thin noses were common in dry, cold regions. On the other hand, shorter, wide noses were found in hot, humid places.

IS TONGUE-ROLLING GENETIC?

You’ve probably heard that the ability to roll your tongue is a genetic trait.

Wrong!

The idea that rolling your tongue is based on a dominant gene comes from geneticist Alfred Surtevant, who published a paper about the subject in 1940. However, 12 years later, Philip Matlock showed that was wrong. How? He ran an experiment with identical twins. Seven of the 33 twins he studied couldn’t roll their tongues like their siblings, thus proving the ability isn’t genetic! Pretty cool huh?

Also, that means if you currently cannot roll your tongue (and want to), you actually can teach your tongue!

EYE COLOR A person’s eye color comes from the iris, which is the part of your eye that surrounds the black hole in the center. The color can range from light blue to dark brown — and is dependent on how much melanin is in the iris.

The genes you inherit from your parents determine your amount of melanin — and thus, your eye color. Brown eyes are dominant, so if your mom has blue eyes and your dad has brown eyes, it’s more likely you will have brown eyes. However, if one of your grandparents has blue eyes, it is possibly that recessive trait can be passed to you — and give you blue eyes.

Not surprisingly, the most common color worldwide is brown.

HAIR COLOR Hair color comes from both parents.

However, the genes that determine hair color are not dominant or recessive. Rather, your hair color is based on many genes working together to decide the amount of melanin (pigment) in your hair. This means you could have the same color hair as your mom, the same as your dad or something else entirely!

CLEFT CHIN Perhaps better known as a “butt chin,” cleft chins are chins with a dimple in the middle.

And although the cleft chin is a dominant trait, it is possible that one of your parents has a cleft chin, but you don’t. Furthermore, it’s even possible (although unlikely) that your parents don’t have cleft chins, but you do!

See the Punnett Square example for how this would work.

DIMPLES It’s possible that both you and your parents have dimples. It’s also possible that your parents do and you don’t. And it’s also even possible that you have dimples, while your parents don’t!

Furthermore, a person’s dimples may change — or even disappear — throughout his or her life!

So, when it comes to dimples, there really is no scientific consensus on whether they are genetic.

RECOMMENDED READING

FICTION n Florence and Her Fantastic Family Tree by Judy Gillian n My Family Tree and Me by Dusan Petricic NON-FICTION n National Geographic Kids, Guide to Genealogy by T.J. Resler n Genetics: Breaking the Code of Your DNA by Carla Mooney

GENEALOGY CENTER

The West Oaks Library in Ocoee is also home to Orange County Library Services’ Genealogy Center. Through the center, genealogy experts teach the basics of family history research; how to access and understand vital records; how to get and interpret DNA results; and more.

The center is located at 1821 E. Silver Star Road, Ocoee.

For more, call (407) 835-7323.

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Illustration by Lindsay Cannizzaro // Senior Graphic Designer

MARCH 3, 2022

SPORTS HIGH

DP senior Tyler Blanchard is one of the Panthers’ strongest pitchers. Page 18.

1

5

West Orange County wrestlers turned in great performances during their respective regional tournaments Feb. 25 and 26. Windermere’s Kurt Vollenweider finished fourth in the 170-pound weight division to become the first male wrestler in school history to qualify for the state tournament.

The First Academy has its first regional champion in Daniel Ward, who won the 138-pound championship.

His teammate Clint Plotner finished third in his weight class and qualified for states. The state tournament begins March 3 at Osecola High School in Kissimmee.

2

High school baseball concluded its first week of play with teams trying to find their footing. The First Academy has hit the ground running, winning its first three games of the season. The Royals scored 29 runs and only allowed one, which came against Winter Springs in a 2-1 victory.

Ocoee rallied back from a 20-0 opening-day loss to Winter Springs to win its next two games, sparked by the bat of Conner Bent.

3

Foundation Academy lacrosse is off to a fast start; the team has won its first three games of the season. The last of those three wins was a 21-0 shutout of Discovery High School Feb. 26. Junior Jacob Graziotti led the team with seven goals and an assist. The Lions travel to play Tampa Prep March 3.

Chris Martucci

Lacrosse — along with the natural talent — runs in Jackson Bennett’s family. That talent helped him to break Windermer Prep’s record for career goals.

STICKING WITH IT Windermere Prep’s Jackson Bennett recently broke the school record for goals in lacrosse.

CHRIS MARTUCCI SPORTS EDITOR

L

acrosse is a sport not many understand. Its popularity is confined to a limited geographic area; Maryland is one of the few states where lacrosse is possibly even more popular than football among the kids. Most kids have a stick in their hands from an early age and play well into high school.

Jackson Bennett plays both football and lacrosse. Although he is quick to say football is his first love, he also

4

Fresh off a regional finals appearance in 2021, West Orange’s softball team picked up where it left off with three victories to open the year.

After a 2-0 shutout of Winter Park, the Warriors scored 10 or more runs in their next two games.

The last of these was a 19-4 demolition of Ocoee.

Aubrianna Sturm and Ailey Schyck are the team’s leading hitters and have been the spark plugs that get the Warriors going. The team travels to South Lake March 3.

loves playing lacrosse. Being born in the Old Line State, it was natural he would gravitate toward the sport.

Now, Bennett’s natural talent has earned him local accolades. Bennett is Windermere Prep’s new all-time leading scorer; he broke the record held by Davis Crayner. He broke the record while scoring seven goals during the Lakers’ 21-1 thrashing of Lake Buena Vista Feb. 17.

“It feels really good to do something that will leave a legacy behind me,” Bennett said. “It’s nice to be able to get recognized with something like that, but I have to give all the credit to my teammates for allowing me the opportunity to do it.”

The seven goals he scored against LBV gave him 138 career goals — five more than Crayner’s 133.

“It’s always a cool thing to do to

break a record and set your own records, especially since we’ve only had two games so far,” said Brooks Bennett, Jackson’s father. “He has the rest of this year and all of next year to add to the total. We never thought about it until his coach brought it up at the beginning of the year.”

Brooks Bennett and his wife, Dahlia, both played lacrosse. That passion for the sport passed down to their children. Their two oldest daughters, Payton and Kaeley, both played in high school. Payton currently plays lacrosse for Rhodes College in Memphis and has been one of the top 20 scorers for Division III the last two seasons. Kaeley also played at Rhodes before retiring halfway through school.

Horizon High baseball makes debut

5

March 3 marks the start of the Arnold Palmer Invitational at Bay Hill Club and Lounge and will last through the entire weekend. Several notable golfers who will be competing are Sergio Garcia, Padraig Harrington, Zack Johnson, Rory McIlroy and reigning Masters champion Hideki Matsuyama. Fans still can purchase tickets at the Arnold Palmer Invitational website, arnoldpalmerinvitational.com.

SEE RECORD PAGE 18

The Hawks seek their first victory at home against East River March 4.

CHRIS MARTUCCI SPORTS EDITOR

seconds.

Dr. Phillips defeated Miami 47-45 Saturday, Feb. 26, to win its first state championship since 2013, the last of three consecutive titles for the Panthers from 2011-13 and the fifth in school history. The game was a rematch of the 2013 final, which Dr. Phillips also won 52-47.

The atmosphere was electric at Horizon High School’s baseball field as the Horizon Hawks took to the field for the first time in the team’s history. Fans had been waiting all fall and winter for a chance to see the home team play its first home game.

Despite scoreboard problems from the offset, it was a normal night at the baseball diamond.

Horizon started off the game getting a quick 2-0 advantage in the first inning. The Hawks then pushed that to 3-0 in the third inning after a wild pitch from Wekiva.

Horizon pitcher Ron Butkus pitched strong through the first three innings, allowing no runs and earning several key strikeouts.

SEE PANTHER PAGE 18

SEE HAWKS PAGE 18

Courtesy photo

DP came from behind to win its fourth state championship in school history.

DP girls win state championship The Panther boys also advanced to the state semifinals.

CHRIS MARTUCCI SPORTS EDITOR

The three-point shot refused to fall for Dr. Phillips most of the night, but it came through in the end.

Asiana Govan picked a spot on the right side of the court, behind the three-point line, and took the big-

gest shot of her life after a sequence of plays keyed by sophomore Trinity Turner. The shot went in, giving Dr. Phillips the lead with 15 seconds to go.

After trailing the whole game and surrendering the lead just a few moments ago, the Panthers came all the way back to take the lead –a lead that they would hold onto the last 15

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

18

OBSERVER

|

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 3, 2022

Panther Tyler Blanchard prowess SPONSORED BY MARK’S FLOORING AND SHANNON TILL/STATE FARM IN FOWLER GROVES

Tyler Blanchard is a senior pitcher for the Dr. Phillips baseball team. As a junior, he led the team in ERA and tied for first in wins during the 2021 season with a minuscule 0.91 to go along with five wins. He was a key reason for the Panthers going all the way to the district championship before losing to Osceola in the state playoffs. As a Georgia native, Blanchard is a big Atlanta Braves fan; his favorite Braves player is first baseman Freddie Freeman.

How much does baseball mean to you?

Baseball is one of my passions.

I’m excited to play all the time, excited to be out here with my teammates. I’ve had a pretty good bond with them recently, especially the new kids coming in. It’s exciting all-around.

THE BASICS AGE: 17 SCHOOL: Dr. Phillips GRADE: Senior SPORT: Baseball POSITION: Pitcher

How did you start in baseball?

I was 4 when my dad got me a glove for Christmas, but it turned out to be the wrong hand since I’m a natural lefty. We started throwing, then he put me in T-ball and Little League.

From there, I moved up to travel ball, won a couple of NITs with some good teams, then I moved up to high school.

What made you want to play for Dr. Phillips?

The meaning behind the name of the school. A couple of family members are alums, and the whole program itself has gained a lot of respect over the years since the state championship in 1996. There were also other state runners up and district titles, as well, so it was a good choice for me to play for them.

I believe I represent the name well.

Describe your pitching style.

I’m not velocity-dependent, because I’ve had to work on some of my arm motion due to some soreness recently. I’m sitting around 81-82 mph on my fastball right now, so I tend to mix in off-speed pitches and movement as much as I can. I’ll get ahead in the count, throw in some breakers, changeups low and away — anything to get the batter to swing whenever possible.

Who is your favorite pitcher after whom you try to model your game?

Chris Sale. The way I learned my arm motion was through Chris Sale by watching him pitch. I base my mechanics around his pitching style and his whole technique.

Favorite all-time favorite lefty pitcher?

Clayton Kershaw. As many Cy Youngs as he’s won, he throws a similar curveball to what I throw. I used to throw just like him with my windup being exactly the same, but I’ve changed it up to my own style.

What are some of your goals for your senior season?

Taking it game by game, play by play, and pitch by pitch, as well as navigating the bumps in the road. The goal is to make it to districts and win that again; go to regionals and win that; then states finally. As a senior, I want to make one last run to states to see if I can win it.

Oliver Marmol, a DP guy, was named the manager of the St. Louis Cardinals. What was that like for you to hear a DP guy is managing in the big leagues?

When I first heard that, I knew we had a good program from the start. Since he came around, we’ve gotten better and better as time has gone on. Our coaching staff, players, what motivates us and such. One of the biggest motivators is beating Olympia, so we always put all our effort into the game.

What is your favorite pitch to throw?

My curveball. During counts, I’ll throw one curveball a certain way with a certain group and then another to get a different depth.

Favorite movie?

“Million Dollar Arm.” As a pitcher, I like it, because I like seeing someone work their way up to the big leagues.

What I like most about it is seeing the adversity the two pitchers go through and yet they still make it.

That shows determination and hard work can get you far.

Three things you’d have with you on a deserted island.

Dumbbells, a baseball and my baseball glove.

— CHRIS MARTUCCI

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 17

The win also gave head coach Anthony Jones his fourth state championship. He also has three national championships in his tenure.

Even when things looked down for much of the game, Jones never gave up hope his team was going to come back and win.

“I kept telling the girls, ‘Don’t look up at the scoreboard. We’re going to come back,’” Jones said.

“We had some nerves early on in the game, which affected our execution, but I kept saying we were going to win.”

Turner scored 19 points, with most coming in the second half after struggling in the first.

Going into halftime, Jones could see the frustration on Turner’s face.

So, he pulled her aside.

“I told her to relax and take a few deep breaths — that everything was going to be all right,” Jones said.

“There was still plenty of game left to go and to not force anything.

After I said that, she had this confident look in her eyes.”

It worked; the third quarter was the Trinity Turner Show. After a first half in which the team shot 1-of-13 from three at one point, Turner sank three three-pointers to pull the Panthers to within striking distance.

Teammate Kalea’ Rainey also found her groove on both sides of the ball. She finished the game with 13 points.

It was truly a team effort, and Jones was quick to commend his coaching staff for its hard work. The “dynasty coaching staff” consists of Tierra Brown, former head coach at The First Academy; Abner Ham, the youngest assistant on staff at a mere 22 years old; Sam Brown, who was previously 0-for-4 in champi-

Chris Martucci

DP’s Jordan Tillery fought off Sean Stewart to get the ball up.

Despite two big threes from Windermere’s Jeremy Torres to keep the game close, the Panthers managed to hold on and secure their return to the state semifinals, winning 42-39.

Riley Kugel led DP with 17 points.

“Windermere has a great team,” head coach Ben Witherspoon said.

“They play together, and they play hard. We knew it wouldn’t be easy.

That first half — they wanted it more, which made it tough on us.

But we kept it together and got the win tonight.”

Dr. Phillips now moves on to face Seminole (Sanford) in the state semifinals Friday, March 4, in Lakeland.

Panthers center Ernest Udeh Jr. was honored as a McDonald’s AllAmerican prior to the game.

onship games; and Tyrone Scott, Jones’ longtime assistant.

“We have lots of basketball IQ on staff, which is part of what it takes to build a good team,” Jones said. “I applaud my assistants for all the work they have put into this program. We’re building a dynasty coaching staff in order to build a dynasty program. Since we are such a young team with mostly freshmen and sophomores, I think we have more to come. My hope is we can have another three-peat like we did from 2011-13.”

PANTHER BOYS STILL ALIVE

The third story in a trilogy is usually an epic conclusion, so when it was going to be Windermere and Dr. Phillips for the chance to go to the state semifinals, the anticipation already was high. After their previous two meetings were decided by a total of a mere four points, fans were sure this was going to be a classic.

After a tight first half Friday, Feb. 25, things were set up for an intense second half.

Just like the previous two meetings, Dr. Phillips managed to put together enough runs to put a lead together heading into the final minute of play.

EAGLES FALL TO ORLANDO CHRISTIAN PREP

CFCA knew going into its game with Orlando Christian Prep that it would be its toughest challenge of the season, and the Eagles found that out quickly after falling into a 19-6 hole after the first quarter.

The team tried to claw back into the game, but it proved to be too late as CFCA fell 65-50.

Record broken CONTINUED FROM PAGE 17

“(Jackson) didn’t really have much of a choice on what sport he was going to play,” Brooks Bennett said. “He plays football in the fall. In the spring, it was going to be lacrosse. It’s a family affair.”

The Bennetts came to the Windermere Prep community when Jackson was in seventh grade. His talent was evident right away, so much that the coaches wanted him to start on the varsity team as a seventh-grader. However, his parents wanted to ease him in. That decision seems to have paid off.

“There was no reason to play on varsity right away,” Dahlia Bennett said. “He had already made friends in the summer because of football.

Now we’re in the spring, and they said he was going to play varsity.

Jackson said, ‘No, I want to play with my friends.’ They finally let me convince them to let him practice a day or two with the middle school team. At the end of first practice, he came home and said it wasn’t going to work, because he was that much better.”

Even when you’re on top, there is always someone who can come around and topple you. Jackson Bennett already has someone in mind whom he feels will break his record: freshman Broden Dold.

“I wouldn’t be surprised if by his senior year, he’s doing the same thing as I did,” Jackson Bennett said.

“He’s advanced for his age, one of the best in the state, honestly.”

Chris Martucci

Horizon pitcher Ron Butkus is excited to represent his school this year.

Hawks take field CONTINUED FROM PAGE 17

He finished the night with five strikeouts to go against two walks before being pulled in the fourth inning after allowing Wekiva to get within a run.

The Mustangs used a big sixth inning to go up 6-3 with one inning left to go. After struggling to get guys on base, with Wekiva striking out the side in the fourth and fifth innings, Horizon finally seemed to catch a break.

Casey Simmerly and Richard Ruby both walked to open the sixth inning. After Anthony Garay struck out and pinch-hitShannon Till, Agent ter Joshua Murillo walked to load Fowler’s Grove 3279 Daniels Rd the bases, catcher Tanner Kramer Winter Garden, FL 34787 Toll with Free: 855-742-1591 came up to bat a chance to www.shannontill.com potentially tie the game.

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field, scoring Simmerly and Ruby to put Horizon down only a run.

The crowd, which had been a bit down in energy, suddenly woke up and cheered loudly, thrilled by the possibility of a late comeback by the home team.

That didn’t happen as the next two batters struck out to strand Murillo and Kramer.

Kramer finished the game 1-for-2 with a force out and being hit by a pitch, in addition to the two-run RBI single.

Wekiva added two more runs in the seventh inning to give itself a more comfortable lead heading into the final frame. Wekiva ultiWe’re all in this together. mately sealed the deal, winning by State Farmscore has aof long tradition a final 8-5. of being That’s oneHorizon’s reason Thethere. quest for first why proud to support winI’mcontinues at West home against Orange county..March 4.

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OBSERVER

Donald Ray Allen, 83, of Winter Garden, died Wednesday, Feb. 23, 2022. Baldwin-Fairchild Winter Garden Funeral Home.

DIED FEB. 6, 2022.

We’ll take the first step with you

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John Paul Bass, 75, of Ocoee, died Saturday, Feb. 12, 2022. DeGusipe Funeral Home and Crematory, Ocoee.

handicap, read and re-read every Zane Grey book, fished only when the weather was perfect, maintained an impeccable yard, played cards (Phil could beat you at a round of gin, and yet you felt happy just to play), kept a watchful eye on his bluebird houses, and charmed every man, woman, child and dog he met.

Phil will be missed by his daughter, Raenelle Harris Bailey, and her husband, Travis Bailey; granddaughters, Lorie Bonham and Jessica Bailey; grandsons, Chris Justice and Daniel Hanna; six great-grandchildren; his sister, Erbie; and many loving nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Gloria Ann Harris; and daughters, Marcia Harris and Nila Harris.

His family is at peace knowing that he is with Ann up yonder, strolling hand in hand again.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests those who wish to express sympathy to consider donating to the Orange Audubon Society (orangeaudubonfl.org) in Phil Harris’ name.

Mona Best, 72, of Winter Garden, died Wednesday, Feb. 16, 2022.

Baldwin-Fairchild Winter Garden Funeral Home.

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Phil D. Harris, 91, died peacefully on Feb. 6, 2022.

A red-headed stranger once implored mothers to not let their sons grow up to be cowboys. One can only imagine Phil Harris’ mother wringing her time-weathered hands at the man her eighth child would become. He made his mama and daddy proud.

Born in Okmulgee, Oklahoma, Phil followed in his older brothers’ footsteps after graduating from Okmulgee High School. He enlisted in the military, leaving Oklahoma behind but returning throughout the years to tell tall tales and make new memories with the ever-growing Harris clan.

While stationed at Pinecastle Air Force Base in Central Florida, he met and married Ann Johnson, the love of his life. For the next 20 years, they made their home where duty called, from England to Eglin, Minot and Wichita Falls. Along the way, they raised three strong, fiercely independent women, much like Phil’s sisters and mother.

After a final tour of duty in the South China Seas, Phil retired with the rank of Master Sergeant from the Air Force. He returned to Central Florida and began his second career as a banker with Sun Bank in Orlando. From the collections office in MasterCard services to an Executive Vice President in the Trust Department, he retired after more than 20 years.

Phil played golf as long as he could maintain a respectable

19

Francisca Macareno Carmona, 93, of Ocoee, died Saturday, Feb 19, 2022. Collison Carey Hand Funeral Home, Winter Garden.

921 S. US Hwy 27, Minneola, FL One block north of Citrus Tower (352) 394-8228 I www.CremationChoicesfl.com

Melvin Chandler III, 49, died Thursday, Feb. 24, 2022. DeGusipe Funeral Home and Crematory, Ocoee.

Barbara M. Lahde, 83, of Oocoe, died Wednesday, Feb. 23, 2022.

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PHIL DEAN HARRIS

THURSDAY, MARCH 3, 2022

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WE ALL LOVE A CONVENIENT LAWMAKERS GAS STATION, TO

you wantto

OPPOSE HB 7049

Public notices inform citizens of theyour changes affect them but when there are Don’t let Florida lawmakers remove right tothat know. plans to put one on andCall their community.

Some state and local officials want to your legislators the and voice your opinion today. property next to move these notices from newspapers to government-run your house... websites, where they may not be easily accessed.

know

?

KEEP PUBLIC NOTICES IN BE INFORMED NEWSPAPERS.

URGE FLORIDA LAWMAKERS TO OPPOSE HB 7049 Don’t let Florida lawmakers remove your right to know.

Call your legislators and voice your opinion today.

Start your advanced planning by calling today.

Read public notices to find out what’s going on in your community.

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To learn more, visit floridapublicnotices.com

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Made for where you live. Here!

THURSDAY, MARCH 3, 2022

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Furnishings

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City of Winter Garden is Hiring

DEADLINES: Classifieds - Friday at Noon 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 advertisement at any time. Corrections after first insertion only. *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 with towncodes in first obtaining an occupational license for business, permitted home 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.

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THURSDAY, MARCH 3, 2022

BROADWAY IS BACK and it’s coming to Winter Garden

BROADWAY

& BEYOND MARCH 26 I 7PM - 9PM PRE-SHOW STARTS AT 6PM

TICKETS WITH YOUR HOST

BILLY FLANIGAN FEATURING THE JOHN B. DEHASS SOCIETY TRIO WITH SPECIAL GUEST CAROL STEIN AND PERFORMERS FROM BROADWAY, OFF-BROADWAY, DISNEY AND MORE! For tickets and more information visit RotaryClubofWinterGarden.org

SPONSORED BY

0134 56789

Bruce Young

377103-1

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