03.11.21 West Orange Times & Observer

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THURSDAY, MARCH 11, 2021

DeChambeau wins API Bryson DeChambeau’s strong play earned him the win at Bay Hill. PAGE 15.

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All incumbents up for reelection in Winter Garden, Ocoee and Windermere retained their positions.

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It was a big day for local politics in West Orange County, as voters from three municipalities — Ocoee, Windermere and Winter Garden — went to the SEE WEST PAGE 2

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Voters select officials DANIELLE HENDRIX AND TROY HERRING

The City Commission approved a proposal for apartments at Fullers Cross and Ocoee-Apopka roads.

SEE PAGE 6.

See our photos of Horizon West Fest 2021.

MUSIC DANCE ART THEATER BLACK TIE

Photo courtesy TK Photography

West Orange High student Luca Hewett wrote a powerful essay about veterans that has garnered him $10,000 to further his education. SEE PAGE 4.

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THURSDAY, MARCH 11, 2021

West Orange voters hit the polls CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

polls to elect their leaders March 9.

Winter Garden voters selected members for districts 2, 3 and 4, while Ocoee had openings for City Commission District 2 and District 4 seats. In Windermere, three Town Council seats were available.

Between the three municipalities, there was a total of 16 candidates seeking election.

WINTER GARDEN CITY COMMISSION

In Winter Garden, six candidates campaigned for three open seats on the City Commission — districts 2, 3 and 4.

District 2 proved to be a tight race, as newcomers Ron Mueller and Iliana Ramos Jones we n t h ea d to head for a seat on the dais to replace outgoing Commissioner B o b

Buchanan. In the end, Mueller squeezed by his opponent by 66 votes, besting her with 52.65% of the vote to her 47.35%.

“I love Winter Garden,” Mueller said in his February Q&A with the Observer. “When I moved here four years ago, I felt this place was home, and I have been so warmly welcomed. Winter Garden has accomplished a lot, and I am proud of it. As such, I want to preserve our way of life here. This is one of the top 12 cities to live in, and I want to make sure it stays that way, never losing its charm.”

In District 3, former City Commissioner Robert “Bobby O” Olszewski challenged incumbent Mark Maciel, who took over Olszewski’s seat in early 2017 following his initial resignation to pursue election as Orange County District 1 Commissioner. Maciel held onto his seat with 61.05% of the vote to Olszewski’s 38.95%.

“Today the voters honored me greatly with another term,” Maciel posted on his

FINANCING AVAILABLE

Facebook page. “I will never let you down and I will always be available for each of you. We are one Winter Garden.”

District 4 Commissioner Colin Sharman will retain his seat after receiving 72.48% of the vote compared with 27.52% earned by his opponent, newcomer Dawn Antonis. Sharman has served as a Winter Garden commissioner since 2006.

“Winter Garden is community,” Sharman said. “Winter Garden came together under one nonpartisan candidate. It doesn’t matter who you are: If you’re a citizen of Winter Garden, Commissioner Sharman will work hard for you no matter what. ... I’ll work hard for you.”

OCOEE CITY COMMISSION

There was no questioning who the residents of Ocoee’s District 2 wanted to represent them on the City Commission, as incumbent Rosemary Wilsen beat challenger Knox Anderson by 485 votes (758 to 272) — or 73.52% of the 1,031

who cast their ballots during the election.

“I am excited — I am thrilled to be able to represent the residents of District 2 for the next term,” Wilsen said. “I have so many people to thank, and I feel like I got great support from our district.

I can’t thank the residents of our district enough for coming out and voting, and allowing me to be their commissioner for this next term.”

In a packed District 4 race, incumbent George Oliver III won a decisive victory, as he picked up 56.15% of the 1,325 ballots cast during this year’s municipal election to defeat challengers Lori Hart, Joel Keller and Keith Richardson.

“The way I feel now — I felt this way this morning at 6 o’clock,” Oliver said. “We finished campaigning yesterday — we stopped campaigning yesterday — and we were out here to celebrate today; we had good friends, food, family, and we had a great time. I’m so proud of the citizens of Ocoee for what they have done — they have had a resounding voice of change.

‘We want some change and we want to keep those folks in office (who) are willing to fight for that change,’ and I am that candidate.”

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WINDERMERE TOWN COUNCIL

Four candidates were vying for three seats up for grabs on Windermere’s Town Council. Current council members Liz Andert and Bob McKinley did not to seek reelection, while incumbent Bill Martini sought to retain his seat.

Windermere voters elected newcomers Mandy David (27.59%) and Anthony Davit (30.68%) to the Town Council and also voted to reelect Martini (31.80%). Mike Hargreaves received 9.92%.

“I’m happy that the town of Windermere residents placed their trust in me,” Davit said. “Hopefully ... we can continue to make some positive changes in Windermere.”

David also expressed her gratitude to voters for trusting her to represent Windermere.

“I’m humbled at the support I received from this amazing town,” David said.

Martini said he is looking forward to continuing to push forward with upcoming projects.

“I’m excited about the next two years,” he said. “I’m looking forward to working with Mandy (David) and Tony (Davit). They seem like great candidates to me and are going to be really beneficial to the town.”

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THURSDAY, MARCH 11, 2021

Perfect partners The Jimmy Crabtree Cancer Fund, West Orange Healthcare District and Orlando Health Cancer Institute teamed up to provide cameras and speaker systems at the center’s Ocoee location.

COMMUNITY EDITOR

A three-way partnership in West Orange County has resulted in another win for all three organizations — the West Orange Healthcare District, the Jimmy Crabtree Cancer Fund and the Orlando Health Cancer Institute at Health Central Hospital in Ocoee.

The district had grant money to offer, but it had to be used in some way relating to COVID-19.

The center needed equipment for each of its clinical rooms so doctors can conduct virtual visits with their patients. The JCCF wanted to continue its role in the community of helping cancer patients in financial need.

Dealing with cancer can be challenging, especially when COVID-19 makes in-person treatments, follow-up appointments and counseling sessions dangerous for immunocompromised patients. To address that challenge, JCCF stepped in and

acted as a conduit for funds.

The organization was given a $5,000 district grant to purchase cameras and speakers for each of the 27 clinical rooms at the cancer center. In addition to providing remote access to the patients, the new equipment also will make it easier for physicians to set up meetings with nutritionists, financial counselors and their cancer support team.

The Crabtree organization was able to buy all the necessary equipment and return more than $1,000 to the district.

Fred and Sue Crabtree and their children established JCCF in 2011 following their son and brother Jimmy’s death from cancer. The nonprofit organization provides financial support to local families touched by cancer.

The three organizations have benefited from one another in the past.

The JCCF has established a good relationship with the cancer institute, which provides the

Courtesy photo

Present for the equipment donation were Lisa Maher, Shantelle Arrington, Laura Clifton, Natalia Delarosa and Shayla Rivera, of Orlando Health Cancer Institute; Danica Kramer, Lindsey Jacques, Angela Letzinger, Curtis Arnold and Roy Borrero Gonzalez, of Orlando Health; and Andy Crabtree, Karen Crabtree, Sue Crabtree and Fred Crabtree, of JCCF.

names of patients who qualify for financial assistance. When the Crabtrees learned of the cancer center’s need, they approached the WOHD and asked about any available grants.

“Us giving them money for equipment doesn’t really fit into our mission statement, but we knew we could help in some way, so we did,” Andy Crabtree said.

The paperwork was filed, and the board members approved the $5,000 grant in October. JCCF received the money in November, purchased the equipment and delivered it to the oncologists and physicians in January.

OCPS presents rezoning options for new Horizon West-area schools District officials gave families a first look at proposed targeted and relief-school rezoning maps in a community meeting March 3.

DANIELLE HENDRIX ASSOCIATE EDITOR

With multiple new schools in the pipeline for Horizon West, Orange County Public Schools officials recently met with the community to discuss various rezoning options.

In a virtual community meeting Wednesday, March 3, attendees were able to see the district’s proposals for these rezonings, which will affect a handful of schools in the West Orange County area.

Two targeted rezonings — those that affect a small area with a limited number of students involved — are proposed for the 2021-22 school year. There also are three relief-school rezonings proposed for the 2022-23 school year.

The first targeted rezoning affects the Sanctuary at Lakes of

Windermere neighborhood. At the elementary-school level, about 15 students living there would be moved from Independence Elementary to Sunset Park Elementary. At the middle-school level, eight students in that neighborhood would switch from Bridgewater Middle to Horizon West Middle.

The second target rezoning affects the Hamilton Gardens subdivision, near Hamlin Town Center. Here, eight high school students would be moved from the West Orange High attendance zone to Horizon High.

For relief-school rezonings, the first is for Site 132-M-W-4, a new middle school opening near the Horizon West town center in August 2022. The rezoning mainly affects Bridgewater and SunRidge middle schools, with a small number of students at Horizon West

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Middle affected by the first option.

“The goal of the rezoning for the 132 (site) is to balance the numbers between SunRidge Middle, Bridgewater and Horizon West,” said Renata Parobczy, OCPS senior administrator of student enrollment and geographic information system.

The second option would mostly affect SunRidge Middle and the new school, as OCPS would add additional area from the SunRidge zone to Site 132-M-W-4. Option No. 3 is similar but moves one more subdivision from the SunRidge zone to Site 132-M-W-4.

There are two elementary relief rezonings — one for Site 89-E-W4 in the Horizon West town center area, and the other for Site 114-EW-4 off Seidel Road.

Site 89-E-W-4 affects Water Spring and Whispering Oak ele-

“Orlando Health has been a great sponsor for our organization through the years, and they’ve been a good partner to find recipients in need,” Andy Crabtree said.

The district has been good to Orlando Health in the past, too — it awarded a $21 million grant to the hospital system in 2016 to fund the original construction of the cancer center.

When the cancer center first opened, JCCF provided iPads for patients to use while they’re in treatment.

“JCCF is very important to us,” said Dawn Willis, Orlando Health community relations. “We made

IN THE ZONE

RELIEF SCHOOL REZONINGS: 89-E-W-4 and 114-E-W4 (Castleview, Summerlake, Water Spring, Whispering Oak elementary schools; Keene’s Crossing and Independence elementary schools in some options); 132-M-W-4 (Bridgewater, SunRidge middle schools) TARGETED REZONINGS: Hamilton Gardens and Sanctuary at Lakes of Windermere Families have the opportunity to give their input or submit petitions through 4:30 p.m.

Friday, March 26. To view the presentation and rezoning options or to provide input, visit bit.ly/3v57Ig3.

TIMELINE School Board Rule Development Workshop: 1 p.m.

Tuesday, March 30 School Board meeting: 4:45 p.m. Tuesday, April 27

mentary schools. Site 114-E-W-4 mainly affects Castleview, Water Spring and Summerlake elementary schools.

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a connection by introducing them to the people at our cancer centers. They’re a great family. … They give unconditionally to these families. … We identify the people who have financial need; our financial people at the cancer center and the nurses see where a patient can’t pay their bill or their electric is going to be shut off.

“We work together because they give funds to our patients,” she said. “And they don’t have to worry about paying it back.”

JCCF works in partnership with AdventHealth, as well, providing financial assistance for its cancer patients.

“The goal of this rezoning is actually to relieve Whispering Oak and Water Spring, and some … we’re also including a small portion of Castleview into the rezoning, and Keene’s Crossing and Independence will also be part of some of the options,” Parobczy said.

There are five options for the two rezonings. Three of those include Independence and Keene’s Crossing elementary schools.

Parobczy reminded parents that there are two additional elementary schools — one of which is site 126E-W-4 coming in 2027 — on the way to help alleviate Water Spring’s enrollment numbers.

Some attendees asked Dr. Carol McGowin, director of student enrollment, how OCPS decides which students get rezoned.

McGowin said it’s a multifaceted approach based on geography, infrastructure and more.

“We try not to split neighborhoods,” McGowin said. “Sometimes large-plan communities are divided by their neighborhoods. We look for — and part of it is is looking to have an appropriate number of students within the school — but we do look at the road infrastructure, and we look at neighborhoods. We look at the geography in general to try to get our zones.”

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THURSDAY, MARCH 11, 2021

Observer

Winning writer

“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

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W

est Orange High School senior Luca Hewett has been awarded a scholarship from the National Veteran Business Development Council after writing a 1,000word essay on America’s military veterans. His family’s military history plus his writing skills have earned him $10,000 for tuition plus a laptop.

“Both of my grandfathers were in the military,” Hewett said. “My grandfather on dad’s side was in the Army, and then on my mom’s side, he was in the National Guard in New Jersey.”

Cadet Col. Luca A. Hewett serves as the group commander of AFJROTC Unit FL-802. He directs and advises the group staff to complete the tasks and assignments given by Headquarters AFJROTC; Maj. Matthew Medlock, senior aerospace science instructor; and Senior Master Sgt. Shonda Spencer, aerospace science instructor.

“Luca has been the epitome of what we want from a JROTC leader and WOHS student,” West Orange Principal Matt Turner said. “He has been an excellent role model for the younger cadets as a leader and student, and I couldn’t imagine a more deserving recipient of this scholarship.”

Hewett hopes to attend the U.S. Naval Academy. He received a nomination from Rep. Val Demings, as well as two from the National ROTC Unit, to apply for the Naval Academy.

He applied and was accepted into the 2020 summer session programs at the academy and the Boys State 2020 summer program.

Hewett joined the AFJROTC unit his freshman year and now is the special assistant to Medlock. During his four years at West Orange, he earned national awards — the American Veterans Award, Air Force Sergeants Association Award and the Air Force Association Award.

“They’re not monetary awards; they’re ribbons and medals you can wear on your uniform,” Hewett said. “One person from every unit is selected to get the award. … I have three currently.”

One was based on an essay, and the others were by recommendation from Medlock.

He has held many different group staff positions before becoming group commander.

During Hewett’s freshman year, he served as the executive officer assistant and later the executive non-commissioned officer in charge. Additionally, he was inducted into the Kitty Hawk Air Society during this year. Sophomore year, Hewett served as the executive NCOIC once more before serving as the command chief master sergeant.

During Hewett’s junior year, he served as the Color Guard commander, operations support squadron commander and Kitty Hawk Air Society president.

That same year, he served as the deputy group commander and group commander.

He is the son of Fred and Karyn

Photo courtesy TK Photography

Luca Hewett plans to attend the U.S. Naval Academy following graduation from West Orange High School.

WHAT VETERANS MEAN TO AMERICA AND ITS CITIZENS Former U.S. Rep. Steve Buyer once said, “America’s veterans embody the ideals upon which America was founded more than 229 years ago.”

America was founded on democracy, freedom and liberty, and veterans are the ones who sacrifice so much to protect these ideals. The word “veteran,” to Americans, elicits the thought of bravery, sacrifice, honor, commitment and patriotism; veterans are the backbone American independence and democracy. America celebrates its brave veterans.

Nov. 11 marks the day America celebrates its veterans on Veterans Day. Compared to other countries, America values and honors its veterans the most. Only a few other countries have their own dedicated “Veterans Day”-type holiday.

Veterans Day was originally viewed as celebrating World War I veterans but later went on to celebrating all past and present veterans. Orlando city celebrates its Veterans Day with a giant parade spanning across a chunk of the city.

U.S. Rep. Dan Lipinski stated, “On this Veterans Day, let us remember the service of our veterans, and let us renew our national promise to fulfill our sacred obligations to our veterans and their families who have sacrificed so much so that we can live free.”

Rep. Lipinski explains that Veterans Day is U.S. citizens’ way of saying thank you to all the veterans. It is important that we, as citizens, honor this holiday to recognize it and remember the veterans that support our basic American and human rights: “Life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.”

Without our veterans’ and service members’ sacrifices, the United States would be devoid of freedom and nothing like it is today. This shows why Veterans Day is such an impactful holiday; it allows American citizens to show thanks to our veterans for all their sacrifice and courage.

Veterans are the epitome of patriotism and loyalty to

America. Veterans are willing to lay down their lives to protect American liberties and the democracy the Founding Fathers have shaped. These men and women swear to protect the Constitution at all costs; they treat it like it is their own kin. Veterans understood the moment they enlisted or commissioned that they were risking their life so others could sleep without fear.

Former President Ronald Reagan once said: “We remember those who were called upon to give all a person can give, and we remember those who were prepared to make that sacrifice if it were demanded of them in the line of duty, though it never was. Most of all, we remember the devotion and gallantry with which all of them ennobled their nation as they became champions of a noble cause.”

This quote by former President Reagan really explains how veterans are making their sacrifices with their own free will.

Serving in the armed forces in America is voluntary, and when former President Reagan said, “… demanded of them in the line of duty, though it never was,” he means that even though their service was needed, it was still voluntary and not forced.

Without veterans, there would be no United States of America; we would most likely be a colony of Britain still.

Reporter Elmer Davis once explained, “This nation will remain the land of the free only so long as it is the home of the brave.”

Davis is illustrating how important veterans are to the American way of life. Veterans show time after time that they are one of the bravest and most resilient crowds in America.

Being able to endure physically and mentally straining training and then actual service is mind-boggling to the average American. Pledging your life to protect America from foreign or domestic enemies is not a light task for someone to undertake.

Veterans understood that they must make the sacrifices

they do to protect the American way of life. It is no easy task for these men and women to go from honorably serving their country every day and sticking to an exact schedule. Many veterans experience various mental issues after trying to filter back into society. It is our duty as citizens to make sure the wellbeing of our nation’s veterans is a top priority.

According to the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, “An estimated 22 veterans commit suicide in the United States every day.” A United States citizen seeing that statistic should be absolutely shocked to know that a veteran takes their own life every 65 minutes. As citizens, we must assist the programs that seek to cut this number down.

Former First Lady Barbara Bush said: “Well, look at what people are doing for returned veterans now. The wounded warriors. They’re working hard to make the wounded veterans feel that they are loved and welcomed home, unlike Vietnam. It was not a very kind, gentle world then. I think we are kinder and gentler.”

These programs First Lady Barbara Bush is talking about are crucial to fight these horrible statistics. Working to combat these veterans’ death statistics is the ultimate goal an American patriot should have. Veterans have served our country, so it is our job to now serve them.

Former President Barack Obama explained once: “It’s about how we treat our veterans every single day of the year.

It’s about making sure they have the care they need and the benefits that they’ve earned when they come home. It’s about serving all of you as well as you’ve served the United States of America.”

As I stated before, our veterans served our nation and now it is our turn to serve them and help them battle the strenuous times they are having. It is imperative as citizens that we safeguard this important minority in our American culture. No doubt, veterans have shaped America’s past and will continue to shape its future.

Veterans past and present have strongly impacted America and the American people through their military service to our great and free nation.

Hewett, of Winter Garden.

The award was administered by Tom Wirbel, a disabled veteran of the U.S. Air Force who is part of the NVBDC State Manager Program. The purpose of the schol-

arship program is to connect veterans with the younger generation to promote service to the country.

Wirbel is president of Powerhouse Two Inc. While serving in

the military, Wirbel suffered an injury that nearly cost him his life. He is a Winter Garden resident.

The scholarship was issued to JROTC students in all 50 states.

BY LUCA HEWETT

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Developer to add apartments to Fullers Cross/ Ocoee-Apopka GPK Investments has plans for a piece of city-owned property to transition it from commercial use to mixeduse commercial/residential.

TROY HERRING SPORTS EDITOR

The northeast corner of Fullers Cross and Ocoee Apopka roads will look a bit different in the future, after the Ocoee City Commission approved a change to the city-owned property in its meeting Tuesday, March 2.

On Aug. 4, 2020, the commission directed staff to move forward with preparations of a contract with GPK Investments for the sale of a 17.96-acre parcel of city-owned land at the northeast corner of Fullers Cross and Ocoee-Apopka roads. Two months later — in October — a price of $3,560,000 was set pending GPK securing a final site plan approval and other development approvals.

The original agreement was approved, but now GPK has shifted gears. The original plan was to develop a commercial project on the land that would include warehouses. Now, the company is proposing the site to be developed as a townhome and apartment development that includes first-floor commercial space.

“Originally when we proposed a warehouse mixed-use — there was going to be some commercial involved — and the numbers just didn’t pencil out for a warehouse,” said Charlie Vickers, a representative from GPK. The planned project would

IN OTHER NEWS n The commission approved the appointment of Ahmad Hassan to the Parks & Recreation Advisory Board. n The commission approved the purchase of Toro Groundmaster equipment for the Parks and Recreation Department. n The commission approved plans to make repairs to the Maguire Road bridge over Florida’s Turkpike.

include four, four-story apartment buildings with commercial businesses on the first floor, while apartments will make up floors two through four. Combined with the three, three-story townhome buildings — which will be for sale, while apartments will be rented — there would be a total of 270 to 280 units. In the outparcel, there are plans to have two, three-story mixed-use buildings that will be used for office and retail space.

Most of the questions from the commission related to infrastructure and how the area would be impacted. Those concerns were addressed by Assistant City Manager Craig Shadrix.

“They will be required as part of the site-plan study, and we will do our own analysis to determine what improvements they’re going to be required to make as part of any approval of this project,” Shadrix said. “As they move forward, we’ll be working with them, and we have our own traffic consultant that will be doing an analysis.”

After about 25 minutes of discussion on the subject, and after having their concerns quelled, the commission unanimously approved the change of plans. It was a welcome change, Mayor Rusty Johnson said.

“What I like about it is what you have underneath — the retail businesses that can be there, and it can be a community inside the community where they don’t even have to leave when they get off of work,” Johnson said. “You’ll have restaurants, shops, retail, a drug store and whatever … this is exactly what we need.”

Matthew’s Hope ministry combats misinformation Founder Scott Billue hosts live Facebook sessions each week to correct falsehoods about homelessness spread on the social media site.

AMY QUESINBERRY COMMUNITY EDITOR

Scott Billue, who founded the Matthew’s Hope homeless ministry 11 years ago, goes live on Facebook at 1 p.m. each Friday with his Ask Pastor Scott segment. This is the best way to talk about the true needs of the homeless and to address the rumors about the organization spread weekly on social media, he said.

The most recent misinformation he has had to correct is regarding multiple trespass eviction notices that have been issued.

“More than 50 homeless men and women, (and) a few children, have been trespassed out of their camps between Ocoee and Winter Garden in the last two months,” Billue said. “And it started right between Thanksgiving and Christmas. What happened is people started commenting online. “(A local resident) really created the biggest part of the problem,” he said. “He started going into the woods by Circle K on Avalon (Road) and taking pictures and showing people where they’re at.

He went in with a worship team with instruments; police started getting complaints from people in the nearby neighborhood.”

People attributed the activity on the side of the road to “drug deals,” he said.

“That camp has been there at least 20 years in one level or another,” he said. “There have been minor complaints, but nothing major.”

He said he went on Facebook to ask people not to publicize the homeless camps and, in return, was accused of trying to keep others from helping the homeless.

BY THE NUMBERS The primary goal of Matthew’s Hope is to move homeless folks toward a life of independence and self-sustainability.

Those who aren’t ready for such a big step still can benefit from the Tuesday and Thursday services and the mobile teams.

These are the 2020 statistics of the Hide-in-Plain Sight initiative: 169,000 pounds of nonperishable food distributed 139,300 personal hygiene items distributed 54,400 prepared foods distributed 53,900 protective masks distributed 50,600 clothing items distributed 13,630 total weekly visits 9,930 hand sanitizers distributed 1,300 nursing/medical care 639 new, first-time guests

DONATIONS THAT HELP

Billue is grateful to those who invest time and money to “help us help them help themselves,” as the Matthew’s Hope motto goes. But he wants people to understand the needs of the homeless run deeper than what can be reached with a one-time donation directly to people on the streets.

“We processed over $2 million worth of goods and services last year on top of $1.5 million in cash,” he said.

The homeless folks at Matthew’s Hope can get food, toiletries, clothes, haircuts and showers, in addition to the medical and mental health services offered.

“We can’t get everyone off the street, but we can make sure they are taken care of,” Billue said. “We

can make sure they are getting their veterans’ benefits, medicine, glasses. … A lot of these guys who try to help, all they do is give blankets and a sandwich. We helped one of our guests who was 55 years old, legally blind, he had cataracts . … We got him surgery.

“If all we did was give him a blanket and a sandwich, he would still be 55 and blind,” Billue said.

THE TSUNAMI

In the last 12 months, during the span of this pandemic, Matthew’s Hope experienced a 300% jump in the number of weekly visits by homeless folks. This followed a 43% jump in the number of people served in 2019.

Matthew’s Hope was notified last week that 10 properties in the community — including nine in Ocoee — will be trespassed by the end of this week, Billue said. This is in addition to the three others that have taken place in the last seven weeks.

And the police departments are not to blame, he said; they are following the directions of the property owners, many of whom are making plans to develop their land.

“The human beings living in our local woods are now becoming the people living on our streets,” Billue said. “There are no services or shelter available within 11 miles of our outreach center … in Winter Garden. Everything else available in Orange County is located just a few blocks from one another in downtown Orlando.”

Every Tuesday and Thursday, three teams go out to the camps.

The first delivers personal protection equipment and picks up dirty laundry; the second team goes out to provide food, clothing and hygiene; and the third team is the medical crew that dresses wounds and makes sure medications are available to those who need them.

Net proceeds from this event are for the benefit of Bahia Shriners.

Payments are not tax deductible as a charitable contribution.

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OBSERVER

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OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

Hamlin St. Patrick’s party gets green light Horizon West residents: Get ready to don your green or be pinched — the St. Patrick’s Day Block Party at Hamlin is back.

COVID-19 canceled most festivities honoring the Irish culture last spring, so Hamlin representatives are looking forward to entertaining the community with a family-friendly day of shenanigans on Sunday, March 14.

Heather Easterling, events and public relations coordinator for Boyd Development Corporation, said the team is following all Orange County safety guidelines.

That includes social distancing, availability of hand sanitizer, limiting crowds, keeping everything clean and having people wear masks.

“We are extra excited,” Easterling said. “We are just excited to be able to provide a safe environment with our amazing view in the heart of the Hamlin town center. We’re excited to have everyone out here and enjoy a festive afternoon to make memories. St. Patrick’s Day is a fun one.”

Admission is free, and there will be plenty of activities and entertainment for attendees to enjoy.

That includes live music, Irish dancers, bagpipers and, of course, food and beverages.

“I think probably my favorite part is all of the live entertainment we’re going to have,” Easterling said. “We’ll have The Down Brothers there, we’ll have Dublin Beat — a Celtic-inspired folk

7

BROADWAY IS BACK and it’s coming to Winter Garden

IF YOU GO

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

THURSDAY, MARCH 11, 2021

BROADWAY

ST. PATRICK’S DAY BLOCK PARTY AT HAMLIN WHEN: Noon to 4 p.m. Sunday, March 14 WHERE: 14111 Shoreside Way, Winter Garden DETAILS: Free admission and entertainment. Enjoy live music from The Down Brothers and Dublin Beat, as well as performances from the Irish Echoes dancers and Rosie O’Grady’s Highlanders Pipes and Drums. There also will be local vendors to peruse and some children’s activities.

Food and beverages will be available for purchase.

FACEBOOK: facebook.com/ HamlinFL

& BEYOND MARCH 27 I 7PM - 9PM PRE-SHOW STARTS AT 6PM

music band — and we’ll have Irish Echoes returning, which are the dancers.”

Dublin Beat combines singalong pub classics, traditional folk songs and Ireland’s best pop hits. The Irish Echoes, from Central Florida Irish Dancers, will be performing to songs from “Riverdance,” “Lord of the Dance” and traditional Irish. They’ll also be interacting with guests and teaching Ceili dances and Riverdance.

“The Irish dancers will offer some lessons right there by the stage if the kids want to go up there to learn a little dance very quickly,” Easterling said. “It’s really cute.”

Rosie O’Grady’s Highlanders Pipes and Drums will perform, as well.

WITH YOUR HOST

BILLY FLANIGAN FEATURING THE CAROL STEIN QUARTET

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8

OBSERVER

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OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 11, 2021

BAPTIST

First Baptist Church Pastor Tim Grosshans 125 E. Plant St, Winter Garden (407) 656-2352 Sundays: 8:30 a.m. Traditional 9:45 AM Bible Study 11:00 AM Contemporary Wednesdays: 6 p.m.- Awana

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

THURSDAY, MARCH 11

CHURCH OF GOD

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

EPISCOPAL

Church of the Messiah 241 N. Main St., Winter Garden Services: 8, 9:30, & 11 a.m., 7 p.m.

ChurchoftheMessiah.com

WEST ORANGE CHAMBER BUSINESS AFTER HOURS 5:30 to 7 p.m. Thursday, March 11, at Mark’s Floors, 731 S. Dillard St., Suite 101-103, Winter Garden. For more, visit wochamber.com.

FRIDAY, MARCH 12

GYMNASTICS USA! PARENT’S NIGHT OUT 6:30 to 11 p.m. Friday, March 12, at Gymnastics USA, 13175 W. Colonial Drive, Winter Garden. Parents can enjoy a night out while children enjoy pizza and activities in a safe and controlled environment. Coaches are on site to ensure safety and fun, as well as organize group games and activities. For ages 3 to 12. For more, call (407) 504-0911 or visit gymnasticsusa.us.

MEN OF HOLY FAMILY 25TH ANNUAL LENTEN FISH FRY 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Fridays, March 12, 19 and 26, at Holy Family Catholic Church, 5125 S. Apopka-Vineland Road, Orlando. This drive-thru event features three dinner choices. For more, call the church, (407) 8762211.

flights; a pet play area for big and small dogs; pet microchipping and donation drive; pet vendors and displays; and a photo spot. For more, visit pintsandpawsmar2021. eventbrite.com.

WINTER GARDEN FARMERS MARKET 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays at the downtown pavilion, 104 S. Lakeview Ave., Winter Garden. For more, visit downtownwg.com.

SUNDAY, MARCH 14

DREAM FINDERS HOMES LUCKY CHARM 5K 7 a.m. Saturday, March 14, at Hamlin Town Center, 14422 Shoreside Way, Winter Garden. This race will have in-person and virtual participation options. For more information or to register, visit floridarunningco. com.

ST. PATRICK’S DAY BLOCK PARTY AT HAMLIN Noon to 4 p.m. Sunday, March 14, at Hamlin Town Center, 14111 Shoreside Way, Winter Garden. Enjoy live music from The Down Brothers and Dublin Beat, as well as performances from the Irish Echoes METHODIST ORANGE COUNTY COMMISSION dancers and Rosie O’Grady’s HighFirst United Methodist WILSON FACEBOOK LIVE landers Pipes and Drums. There Church 4 to 5 p.m. Fridays on Facebook, also will be local vendors to peruse 125 N. Lakeview Ave., facebook.com/NicoleWilsonD1. The and some children’s activities. Food Winter Garden purpose of these live office hours and beverages will be available Starke Lake Baptist Church is to pull back the curtain of local for purchase. Free admission. For (407) 656-1135 LAKE BAPTIST Advertise your Services or Events NGLICAN Pastor JeffSTARKE METHODIST NON-DENOMINATIONAL government and help residents more, visit facebook.com/HamPritchard CHURCH Services: Livestreaming FIRST UNITED METHODIST PURPOSE CHURCH OLANDO on this page weekly.

GLICAN COMMUNITY learn about what goes on behind linFL. PO Box 520, W 611 WAve., Ave, Ocoee PO Box 520 611 CHURCH 13640 W. Colonial Dr., Ste 110, Sunday @ 9 AM. Viewable on LLOWSHIP CHURCH Pastor Jeff Pritchard 125 N. Lakeview Ave Winter Garden Winter Garden the scenes once an elected official tor The Rev. CanonOcoee Tim Trombitas Facebook Youtube (407) 656-2351 Service Times 9:00 AMand and 11:15 AM 407-654-9661 • Prayer 9:30AM, This into page appears weekly in the MONDAY, MARCH 22 is sworn office.

6 East Plant St, Winter Garden656-2351 www.starkelakebaptist.org (407) Phone – 407-656-1135 Fellowship 9:45AM, Service 10:05 AM NDAY SERVICE 10:00 AM West Orange Times & Observer and ROTARY CLUB OF Web: fumcwg.org d us at: Theacf.net StarkeLakeBaptist.org CHURCH OF GOD WINDERMERE FARMERS MARKET WINDERMERE GOLF FOR GOOD online at OrangeObserver.com.

NON-DENOMINATIONAL OCOEE CHURCH OF GOD 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Fridays at Town Hall, 6 to 9 p.m. Monday, March 22, at UNITED CHURCH OF Orlando APTIST Purpose Church Pastor Thomas Odom Victory Baptist Church CHRIST 520 Main St., Windermere.

UseDirectory the TopGolf Orlando, 9295 Universal To advertise in the Church 1105 N. Lakewood Avenue, Ocoee ULAH BAPTIST & Christian 13640 WUNION Colonial Academy WINDERMERE CHURCHDr. Ste 110, entrance along West Sixth Avenue.

Blvd., Orlando. Enjoy an evening at 407-656-8011 or Casey Butner call 407-656-2121 or email 10710 Park Ridge-Gotha Rd. Winter Garden Beulah Rd, Winter1601 Garden A.D. Mims Rd,Ocoee Masks and social distancing are TopGolf while supporting Rotary Windermere, FL 34786 AdvertiseNow@OrangeObserver.com EPISCOPAL -656-3342 | BeulahBaptistWG.org (407) 654-9661 (407) 656-3097 required; leashed pets are always and its service projects. Tickets 407-876-2112 Worship times: CHURCH OF THE MESSIAH NDAY BIBLE STUDY 9:30AM 9:00am Adult Sunday School Sunday Service: 10:05 a.m. welcome. For more, visit town.windare $100 and include three hours 11 andGarden 6 p.m.

241a.m.

N. Main, Winter NDAY SERVICE Sunday: 11:00AM 10:00am WorshipBrazilian Service: 7 p.m.

Sunday ermere.fl.us. of golf, dinner and beverages. For Services: 9:30, & 11am, 7pm DNESDAY SERVICE 6:00PM Wednesday: 7 8,p.m. www.windermereunion.org www.churchofthemessiah.com more, visit WindermereRotary.org/ Saturday Service: 6 p.m. www.VBCOCOEE.com ST BAPTIST CHURCH GolfForGood.

SATURDAY, MARCH 13 purposechurchorlando.org E Plant St., Winter Garden CREATING AN ARTFUL PLANTER -656-2352 NDAYS 8:30 am Traditional 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, March 13, SATURDAY, MARCH 27 5 am Bible Study at Nehrling Gardens, 2267 Hempel ROTARY CLUB OF WINTER 00 am Contemporary Ave., Gotha. Learn how to make an GARDEN BROADWAY & BEYOND DNESDAYS - 6pm - Awana MIKE YOAKUM outdoor plant sculpture with “thrill7 p.m. Saturday, March 27, at or Tim Grosshans PASTOR w.fbcwg.org ers, spillers and fillers.” Bring your Newton Park, 31 W. Garden Ave., Campus: P: 407.656.1520 own outdoor flower pot (about 15 to Winter Garden. Broadway & Beyond UNDATION WORSHIP C: 407.758.3570 24 inches wide by 20 to 28 inches will be hosted by Billy Flanigan and NDAYS 9:45 am - All Ages MYOAKUM407@AOL.COM deep), a tall grass or plant (thriller), feature the Carol Stein Quartet ndation Academy High School 04 Tilden Rd., Winter Garden a plant that drapes over the edge and performers from Broadway, w.FoundationWorship.com (spiller) (three to six plants) and the Off-Broadway, Disney & more.

-730-1867 in-between (filler). Soil, rooting horSpecial seating arrangements have mones, gravel, and other necessibeen approved by Winter Garden 1333 EAST CROWN POINT RD. ties for potting provided by instructo comply with city and CDC safety OCOEE, FL 34761 tor Joy Wolff. Cost is $25; register protocols. A limited number of preat nehrlinggardens.org/news, or call purchased in-person seats are avail(407) 376-1597 or (407) 445-9977. able. To comply with social distancing requirements, in-person seats in the first two sections closest to PINTS AND PAWS • Custom Furniture, Farm Tables, In 2020, Matthew's Hope experienced a 300% increase in the number of the stage performance are group2 to 5 p.m. Saturday, March 13, at Barn Doors, and More weekly visits with those finding themselves homeless in• our community. only seating. A “ticket” purchases The Grove Orlando.

Bring your wellRepaired, Refinished and a blanket that seats one to four behaved furry friend. Throughout Repurposed Wood Furniture Here is a brief Snapshot of what that looked like. guests. For more information, visit the event, you can enjoy a variety Check out the custom • Gently Used Furniture and New & Used rotaryclubofwintergarden.org. of events, such as progressive beer made silent auction items Household Items

2nd Campus: Foundation Worship Foundation Academy High School 15304 Tilden Rd., Winter Garden (407) 730-1867 Sundays: 9:45 a.m. All Ages FoundationWorship.com

LV14252

316889-1

CHURCH DIRECTORY

Matthew’s Hope Chest Creations

Personal Hygiene Items: 139,300

Hand Sanitizers: 9,930 Nursing/Medical Care: 1,300 Prepared Foods: 54,400 Nonperishable Foods:169,000 lbs.

Plus, we provided weekly laundry service, showers, assistance with food stamps, Florida ID's, COVID Testing, and more.

care with compassion and excellence.

TEXT

Office Hours:

“MHM” TO 4 1 4 4 4 This is a secure site for giving

Mon-Fri 8AM-5PM Saturday Mornings 8-12

By Appointment Only 1551 Boren Drive, Suite A Ocoee, FL 34761

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TO DONATE

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

WANT TO SEE YOUR LISTING HERE? or email AdvertiseNow@orangeobserver.com

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THURSDAY, MARCH 11, 2021

9

REAL ESTATE

OrangeObserver.com

realtor.com

The home at 87650 Seidel Road, Winter Garden, sold March 4, for $1.25 million. It was the largest transaction in Horizon West from Feb. 27 to March 4.

Seidel Road property sells for $1.25 million A zon West topped all West Orange-area residential real-estate transactions from Feb. 27 to March 4.

The home at 8750 Seidel Road, Winter Garden, sold March 4, for $1.25 million.

Built in 1985, it has three bedrooms, three-andone-half baths and 3,747 square feet on 5.67 acres.

The price per square foot is $333.60. Days on mar-

Total Sales: 58 High Sale Price: $1.25 million Low Sale Price: $220,000

HORIZON WEST ENCLAVE

The home at 11792 Hampstead St., Windermere, sold March 3, for $675,000. Built in 2017, it has five bedrooms, four baths and 3,915 square feet. The price per square foot is $172.41. Days on market: Eight.

The home at 6132 Lewis and Clark Ave., Winter Garden, sold March 1, for $440,000. Built in 2013, it has four bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 2,218 square feet. The price per square foot is $198.38. Days on market: Two.

munity in West Orange.

LAKESHORE PRESERVE

GOTHA GOTHA

The home at 1544 Hempel Ave., Gotha, sold March 2, for $420,000. Built in 1942, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,381 square feet. The price per square foot is $176.40. Days on market: 12.

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The home at 13125 Penshurst Lane, Windermere, sold March 1, for $365,000. Built in 2007, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,948 square feet. The price per square foot is $187.37. Days on market: Zero.

ket: 141.

In Celebration of National Mom and Pop Business Owners Day

The home at 15124 Canoe Place, Winter Garden, sold March 3, for $789,750. Built in 2019, it has five bedrooms, four-andone-half baths, a pool and 3,883 square feet. The price per square foot is $203.39. Days on market: Five.

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10

REAL ESTATE

OBSERVER

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OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 11, 2021

The home at 8181 Topsail Place, Winter Garden, sold March 4, for $732,500. Built in 2019, it has five bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths and 3,811 square feet. The price per square foot is $192.21. Days on market: 54.

LAKEVIEW POINTE

SUMMERLAKE

The home at 14741 Bahama Swallow Blvd., Winter Garden, sold March 2, for $437,000.

Built in 2015, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,962 square feet. The price per square foot is $147.54. Days on market: 150.

The home at 7119 Half Moon Lake Drive, Winter Garden, sold March 1, for $370,000.

Built in 2016, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,970 square feet. The price per square foot is $187.82. Days on market: One.

The home at 8138 Gray Kingbird Drive, Winter Garden, sold March 2, for $429,000. Built in 2018, it has four bedrooms, four baths and 2,638 square feet. The price per square foot is $162.62. Days on market: Four.

RAVENNA

WATERLEIGH

The home at 7699 Bowery Drive, Winter Garden, sold March 1, for $622,000. Built in 2020, it has five bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths and 4,164 square feet. The price per square foot is $149.38. Days on market: 59.

ROYAL ESTATES

The townhouse at 9005 Via Di Canti, Windermere, sold March 2, for $389,900. Built in 2021, it has five bedrooms, four baths and 2,335 square feet.

The price per square foot is $166.98. Days on market: Zero.

SEIDEL ROAD

The home at 8750 Seidel Road, Winter Garden, sold March 4, for $1.25 million. Built in 1985, it has three bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 3,747 square feet on 5.67 acres.

The price per square foot is $333.60. Days on market: 141.

STOREY GROVE

The home at 15193 Book Cub Road, Winter Garden, sold March 2, for $360,000. Built in 2019, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 2,321 square feet. The price per square foot is $155.11. Days on market: One.

The home at 9326 Bolero Road, Winter Garden, sold March 1, for $543,016. Built in 2020, it has four bedrooms, threeand-one-half baths and 3,327 square feet. The price per square foot is $163.21. Days on market: 123.

The home at 15647 Marina Bay Drive, Winter Garden, sold March 3, for $515,000. Built in 2016, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,348 square feet. The price per square foot is $219.34. Days on market: 85.

The home at 16718 Harper Cove Drive, Winter Garden, sold March 2, for $490,000.

Built in 2019, it has five bedrooms, four baths and 2,866 square feet. The price per square foot is $170.97. Days on market: 78.

WATERMARK

The home at 14548 Golden Harbor Lane, Winter Garden, sold March 1, for $350,000.

Built in 2016, it has four bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 2,060 square feet. The price per square foot is $169.90. Days on market: Three.

realtor.com

The home at 13312 Bonica Way, Windermere, sold March 2, for $1.2 million. This custom-built estate is located on a premium lot with facing green spaces.

WESTSIDE VILLAGE

WINDERMERE TRAILS

The home at 13006 Westside Village Loop, Windermere, sold March 2, for $479,900.

Built in 2018, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 2,665 square feet.

The price per square foot is $180.08. Days on market: 104.

The home at 9150 Outlook Rock Trail, Windermere, sold March 3, for $535,000. Built in 2015, it has four bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,988 square feet. The price per square foot is $179.05. Days on market: Five.

WINCEY GROVES

The home at 5331 Golden Apple Drive, Winter Garden, sold Feb. 28, for $513,859. Built in 2020, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 2,679 square feet. The price per square foot is $191.81. Days on market: 43.

The home at 5325 Golden Apple Drive, Winter Garden, sold March 3, for $387,590. Built in 2020, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,235 square feet. The price per square foot is $173.42. Days on market: Zero.

WINDERMERE ISLE

The home at 13531 Gordona Isle Drive, Windermere, sold March 3, for $535,000. Built in 2017, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,690 square feet. The price per square foot is $198.88.

Days on market: 110.

student physicals $30

OAKLAND

OAKLAND TRAILS

The home at 2271 White Feather Loop, Oakland, sold March 4, for $335,500. Built in 2017, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,838 square feet. The price per square foot is $182.54. Days on market: Four.

OCOEE

ADMIRAL POINTE

The home at 171 Bismark Court, Ocoee, sold March 3, for $410,000. Built in 1996, it has four bedrooms, two-andone-half baths, a pool and 3,065 square feet. The price per square foot is $133.77. Days on market: Two. MARION PARK

The home at 39 Magnolia St., Ocoee, sold Feb. 27, for $375,000. Built in 1925, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-

half baths, a pool and 2,898 square feet. The price per square foot is $129.40. Days on market: Four.

MCCORMICK WOODS

The home at 3325 McCormick Woods Drive, Ocoee, sold March 1, for $359,900. Built in 2011, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,740 square feet.

The price per square foot is $131.35. Days on market: Five.

WEST ORANGE OXFORD MOOR

The home at 5903 Oxford Moor Blvd., Windermere, sold March 1, for $1 million. Built in 2003, it has five bedrooms, five baths, a pool and 4,762 square feet. The price per square foot is $210. Days on market: 155.

PROVIDENCE

The home at 6107 Talaria Drive, Windermere, sold March 4, for $520,000. Built in 2003, it has five bedrooms, four baths, a pool and 3,371 square feet. The price per square foot is $154.26. Days on market: 80.

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OrangeObserver.com

Court, Windermere, sold March 1, for $952,000. Built in 1983, it has five bedrooms, three-andone-half baths, a pool and 4,140 square feet. The price per square foot is $229.95. Days on market: Two.

BELLE MEADE

The home at 15428 Firelight Drive, Winter Garden, sold March 2, for $414,000. Built in 2007, it has four bedrooms, four baths and 3,423 square feet. The price per square foot is $120.95.

Days on market: 176.

The home at 2442 Ridgewind Way, Windermere, sold March 1, for $640,000. Built in 1996, it has five bedrooms, four baths, a pool and 3,801 square feet. The price per square foot is $168.38.

Days on market: 40.

r a e Y New

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The home at 2242 Tillman Ave., Winter Garden, sold March 2, for $579,000. Built in 2007, it has five bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 3,133 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $184.81. Days on market: Two.

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The home at 6132 Payne Stewart Drive, Windermere, sold March 1, for $1.2 million. Built in 1989, it has three bedrooms, threeand-one-half baths, a pool and 2,848 square feet. The price per square foot is $421.35. Days on market: 220.

TILDENS GROVE

The home at 5044 Tildens Grove Blvd., Windermere, sold March 2, for $1.06 million. Built in 2007, it has five bedrooms, five baths, a pool and 4,815 square feet. The price per square foot is $220.15. Days on market: Two.

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Days on market: Three.

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The home at 6125 Lake Burden View Drive, Windermere, sold March 1, for $1.05 million. Built in 2006, it has five bedrooms, five baths, a pool and 4,038 square feet. The price per square foot is $260.03. Days on market: 106.

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The home at 10 Broad St., Winter Garden, sold March 1, for $415,000. Built in 1947, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,576 square feet. The price per square foot is $263.32. Days on market: 58.

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OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 11, 2021

OCPS Spring Break begins March 15 Students in Orange County Public Schools will enjoy a week off from school for Spring Break from Monday, March 15, to Friday, March 19.

In addition, Friday, March 12, is scheduled as a teacher workday.

Students will be off from school.

Horizon Hawks soar at weekend event Representatives from the soon-tobe-opened Horizon High School were out in full force Saturday, March 6, at Horizon West Fest 2021.

With their school colors and mascot displayed prominently, the representatives used the event to introduce the new school to the Horizon West community.

Horizon High School will open in August.

Foundation celebrates Dr. Seuss Students at Foundation Academy celebrated all things Dr. Seuss last week for National Read Across America Day 2021.

The students spent time enjoying a variety of Dr. Seuss stories, some read by Foundation administration officials. The students also performed science experiments, completed Dr. Seuss graphing activities, made their own butter and dressed up as their favorite Dr. Seuss character.

CYNDIA VICENS MONTALVO If you have called Tildenville Elementary School this year, you likely have spoken to Cyndia Vicens Montalvo, the school’s front office clerk. She is the first person you see when you walk into the reception area of the Winter Garden school, and she is ready to assist parents and other visitors to Tildenville. She is originally from Mayaguez, Puerto Rico and is part of a large family. She has been in Florida for nine years and she lives in Clermont.

What brought you to your school?

Looking forward to a new experience, and my experience working with children. In Puerto Rico, I worked three years in daycare.

Here, in Kissimmee, I worked six years in a private school. Three years were as a teacher’s assistant, and the other three years were at the reception.

What do you love most about your school?

The good treatment of children and the way they are cared for.

What is your motivation?

My daily motivation is my son. He makes me want to move on and not give up.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

The most rewarding part of my job is helping people who cannot communicate well due to language barriers.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

I love going to the beach and fishing, and I love camping. My favorite beach is Melbourne Beach; I go fishing at Sebastian Park. I

take my son early in the morning, and we stay until the sun goes down. We also like to camp at Lake Louisa Park in Clermont.

Who was your favorite teacher when you were in school? Why? My favorite teacher was my fifthgrade teacher, Mrs. Ortiz. It seems funny, but she was my neighbor, and she gave me toys for Christmas every (year).

When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?

Why? When I was a girl, I always dreamed of being a singer, but in reality, I do not have a good voice.

I love acting; I seem to be shy, but in reality, I am not. If I had a good voice — without a doubt I would have belonged to the show.

What is your favorite children’s book and why?

I actually love Dr. Seuss books.

“The Cat in the Hat” is my favorite.

What are your hobbies?

One of my hobbies is doing acrylic nails, makeup and everything that has to do with fashion and beauty.

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

If I could have a superpower, it would be to turn back the time to see people who are no longer here.

I would like to see my younger brother, Anthony, who sadly died in a car accident several years ago.

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

I like quiet music. I would say it would be Enya, Christian and instrumental music. I think that what we hear interferes with our thoughts; that is why I prefer that type of music.

How long have you been at your school and with OCPS? I’ve only been with OCPS for seven months, and I started at Tildenville Elementary.

— AMY QUESINBERRY

REPORT CARD

NOMINATE YOUR INFLUENCER

POSITION: Front office clerk TIME AT SCHOOL: Seven months

Do you have an “unsung hero” at 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.

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OBSERVER

INFLUENCER OF THE WEEK

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OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

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THURSDAY, MARCH 11, 2021

13

OBSERVER SCHOOL ZONE

Kat McScowrley and Miguel Otoch worked together on a chalk drawing of Edvard Munch’s “The Scream.”

ALL FIRED UP A

Lydia Erickson worked in sections while drawing out her colorful creation.

Charlotte Crawford carefully placed a piece of ceramic art into a bucket of cold water to cool it off.

rt students at The First Academy showcased their creativity Friday, Feb. 26, during the school’s eighth annual Raku Firing and third annual street painting.

Advanced visual art students enjoyed a sunny day, with 2D students creating colorful chalk masterpieces on the sidewalk that featured animals, as well as a copy of Edvard Munch’s “The Scream.” Just a few feet away, 3D-based students fired up the school’s kiln to fire ceramic pieces in the ancient Japanese ceramic process called Raku Firing.

— TROY HERRING

Francesca Bahamonde, left, and Tiffany Rojas worked on a vividly-colored elephant during their time outside.

Top: Faith McCray, right, watched as Katie Bonnett pulled ceramic art pieces out of the fire.

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THURSDAY, MARCH 11, 2021

THESE OLD TIMES

FROM THE WINTER GARDEN HERITAGE FOUNDATION

THROWBACK THURSDAY MARCH 16, 1951 Residents who enjoyed hearing the crack of the bat during baseball season undoubtedly were excited to read the advertisement in the Winter Garden Times announcing the spring exhibition schedule of the Chattanooga Lookouts, which trained locally during the winter. The players had games scheduled against Birmingham, Jersey City and Washington teams, and West Orange County folks could catch the action for 50 cents.

85 years ago

One of the ads in the paper makes one wonder what it could be: “Drink 3-Centa. The Taste Thrill of the Century, 3 cents a bottle.”

75 years ago

R.L. Hamilton and J.R. Hightower became the new operators of a new factory established in Oakland in the George Gordon Bond concrete block building formerly occupied by grocery establishments. The firm name was Oakland Battery Co., and it manufactured all kinds of batteries and specialized in automotive equipment.

70 years ago

The new Winter Garden Elementary School — later named Dillard Street Elementary — was planned for the southeast corner of the L.W. Tilden estate at Dillard and Tilden streets, near Lake Apopka. The Orange County School Board secured the land for about $17,500. The new building was estimated to cost more than $300,000.

55 years ago

A wild boar, weighing almost 300 pounds, was shot and killed near State Road 50 and Dillard Street by Thurman Wofford, owner of West Orange Fence.

50 years ago

The Once-A-Month Supper Club met at the home of Roy and Barbara Fulmer. Members

CROSSWORD

FROM THE ARCHIVES Local artist Dan Crusie painted this scene of a steam train pulling up to the Tavares & Gulf Railroad depot at Joiner and Boyd streets in Winter Garden. Heading west, its next stop might be Brayton and then Tildenville, Oakland, Killarney and beyond. The setting evokes a time when life was lived at a slower pace and citrus groves blanketed the land on all sides of the growing city.

Imagine leaving New York City by train on a Saturday afternoon in 1925 from vast, crowded Pennsylvania Station, and eventually arriving at this tiny depot. You’d see crews carting wooden crates packed with citrus fruit and vegetables from the freight room onto trains destined for northern markets, retracing the route you’d taken to visit family in West Orange County.

Prints of this painting are available at the Central Florida Railroad Museum, now open from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays.

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. include Lowell and Jackie Teal, Cecil and Elaine Sirmans, and Bob and Myrna DeWeese.

Al Ewing Ford advertised a Ford Pinto for $1,799 at its location on West Highway 50 in Winter Garden.

PARTING THOUGHTS by Samuel A. Donaldson; Edited by David Steinberg

©2021 Universal Uclick

ACROSS 1 “___ ‘70s Show” 5 Heavenly ring 9 What Mars is known for 12 Belts surround them 18 Words of advice?

20 Resentful 21 How rain-soaked leaves smell 22 TEN SION 24 “___ Down the Road” (“The Wiz” song) 25 Cookie Monster’s fur color 26 Web access device 27 Notable flamingo feature 29 Ltd., in the U.S.

30 Comic’s prop 32 I CE 36 Slithering swimmer 41 Devious 42 Tablet tappers 43 Common skin condition 44 Down-to-earth 46 Response to “Are you?”

48 Infomercial, usually 52 MO LD 57 Smallest party size 58 Tennis partners?

59 Lipton competitor 60 Backboard attachment 61 Film FX 62 Bourbon barrel wood 64 Petty quarrel

67 Does a surgeon’s job 70 BA NK 73 INTE RNET 75 NE WS 76 Tangled up 78 Middle of QED 79 Above, in “The StarSpangled Banner” 80 Friend 81 All cozy 83 More like a pin?

87 Red lentil ___ (Indian dish) 90 Ambient music pioneer Brian 91 T IE 95 Esteem

20 years ago

The town of Oakland selected the architectural firm to design the town square. The project, budgeted for $1.25 million, was to include an addition to the existing Town Hall, a two-story 123 “Life is hard,” and a hint to interpreting this puzzle’s clues in all caps 127 “Yes, and” class 128 House overhang 129 Super simple 130 Area of expertise 131 Molecule hidden in “fingernails” 132 Stand for the judge 133 Edward’s adoptive mom in “Twilight”

post office, courtyard with a water feature, parking, lighting, pedestrian amenities and landscaping on about 1.3 acres of land. The original layout included plans for a police station.

54 Easily duped 55 Coat for a wolf in sheep’s clothing 56 Doo-___ music 63 Muscles targeted by planks 65 Common Christmas tree 66 Swiss money 68 Corp. shuffle 69 Orangutan, for instance 70 Windshield cleaner 71 Cockamamie 72 One may boost an octane rating DOWN 73 Huge surplus 1 Active ingredient in pot 74 Committed an epic fail 2 Mint or sage 77 NICU workers 3 Mostly dried-up sea 82 Old Navy’s parent 4 Iconic Shawnee chief company 5 Contains 84 Commotions 6 Unit of matter 7 Ride with a stretch variety 85 Pinball foul 86 Wrap up by 8 Columns with viewpoints 88 “___ girl!”

9 Lo mein cooker 89 Spring 10 “___ you glad you did?”

91 Pull an all-nighter, perhaps 11 Puts back at 00:00, say 92 Full of gloom 12 Small-town dirt source?

93 “Send along your 13 Top bond rating response” 14 Org. associated with 94 Hailing from Austria’s unhappy returns capital 15 Oktoberfest souvenir 96 Spot for a vaccine 16 Certain bikini bottom 101 Prefix with “laryngologist” 17 Coordinate, as devices 102 Prattle 19 Ball of yarn 104 Down Under birds 20 Mogadishu’s nation 106 Homecoming queen’s 23 Fast planes crown 28 Iron’s replacement as a 107 Orangutan relative, Monopoly token informally 31 Meat, at a taco truck 97 ___ Wonderful juice 108 Pizzazz 33 Actor Gosling 98 Informed 109 Lauren of “The Walking 34 Warriors star Thompson 99 Littlest bit 35 Three, in Roman numerals Dead” 100 Odorless home hazard 36 “Smooth Operator” singer 110 Key that may have an 103 Dubai’s land, briefly arrow on it 37 Macro or micro class 105 Oklahoma’s resembles a 112 Softball stats 38 Snack with celery and saucepan 115 Spiced tea raisins 107 L AW 116 Oil company with toy 39 Fraternities’ beer buys 111 Large cookie holder trucks 40 Right direction?

112 P, on a sorority sweat118 Goes out for a bit?

45 Deliberately deceive shirt 119 Milk option 47 “Nothing special” 113 Dorothy’s pooch 121 Fury 49 Fantastic Four foe 114 Meal in a brown bag, 122 Neither fish ___ foul 50 Fury perhaps 51 Believer in a noninterven- 124 Actress Green or Mendes 117 Raggedy dolls 125 Top seed’s reward, often ing god 120 Island chain southeast 126 “Understand?”

53 Color, as a tattoo of Miami

CELEBRITY CIPHER

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

Each letter in the cipher stands for another.

“GRCLK P. EDOTJ RBHT GRRZTA DX ET DBA KDLA, ‘ORC FLGG BTUTJ ITX XST ILJG DX XST TBA.’ KR L FRJZTA RB EO DHXLBI.”

– UDB STNGLB

“WFO IPYT LGCCOZOPMO ROWJOOP KO DPL KT COYYIJ DMWIZN GN WFDW G’UO NVOPW KIZO WGKO GP EDGY.”

– ZIROZW KGWMFHK

Puzzle Two Clue: E equals J

WEST ORANG E HISTO RY

OBSERVER

Puzzle One Clue P equals B

14

© 2021 NEA, Inc.

SUDOKU

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

©2021 Andrews McMeel Syndicate

03-11-21

MARCH 11, 2021

HIGH

SPORTS

1

5

Ocoee High junior Jordan Phillips is proving to be a leader for the Knights wrestling team. Page 16.

HISTORY MADE

Dr. Phillips wrestling’s Gerald Greaves finished a stellar season as he beat Southwest Miami’s Adrian Sans in a 7-4 decision to claim the state championship in the 285-pound weight class at the FHSAA state finals at Osceola High School Saturday, March 6. The Panthers finished the tournament in 21st.

2

Ocoee High sophomore Dylan Horne had a big day at the Lake Mary Invitational at Winter Park High School for the Knights track and field team Saturday, March 6.

Horne took home first place in the shot put (46 feet, 1.25 inches), discus (139 feet, 1 inch) and javelin (130 feet, 11 inches) to help push the Knights to a second-overall finish behind Seminole.

Teammate Tramari Smith added on to the team’s first-place finishes by winning the 400-meter run with a time of 49.04.

3

Will Ross won a pitcher’s duel that broke out during West Orange High’s 1-0 win over rival Apopka Friday, March 5. Ross pitched a complete-game shutout for the Warriors (5-1) while recording a whopping 14 strikeouts in the win. At the plate, teammate Ricky Reeth accounted for a good chunk of offense — going 2-for-3 with a triple and a run scored.

4

Windermere Prep’s Gracie Wallace was nearly untouchable during the Lakers’ 7-0 win over West Orange Friday, March 5. In the win, Wallace pitched a complete-game shutout and racked up 11 strikeouts while allowing only two hits. At the plate, the Lakers were led by a 2-for-3 outing from Meredith Workman.

A clutch 27-point night for Denzel Aberdeen and a balanced game plan catapulted Dr. Phillips High School to its first state basketball title.

TROY HERRING SPORTS EDITOR

T

o be on the court felt like living a fever dream.

As the cacophony of music and yelling fans reverberated off the walls of the RP Funding Center, players wearing the dark and light blue of Dr. Phillips frantically ran in circles as they

sought out someone to hug following Dr. Phillips’ historic 54-46 win over Dwyer to claim the school’s first state title.

By the bench area, Eathen Williams slowly let himself fall to the hardwood court, before covering his face with both hands as the moment overwhelmed him. A few SEE PANTHERS PAGE 16

DeChambeau wins at Bay Hill

5

The Olympia High girls tennis team pulled out a 5-2 win over Celebration during its match Thursday, March 4.

In the win, the Titans went 4-2 in singles, with sophomores Jadyn Ciccantelli (No. 3 singles) and Danika Brandt (No. 4 singles), and freshmen Isabella Scherer (No. 5 singles) and Victoria Lord (No. 6 singles) winning their matches. Senior combo Lizzie Connor and Aubrey Barnes won in No. 1 doubles, while Brandt and senior Josie Pham won in No. 2 doubles.

Photos by Troy Herring

Denzel Aberdeen gives out hugs and handshakes after winning the state title.

Big shots and a clutch putt on the 18th helped seal a victory for Bryson DeChambeau at the 2021 Arnold Palmer Invitational.

TROY HERRING SPORTS EDITOR

Courtesy of Getty Images and the PGA TOUR

Bryson DeChambeau picked up his eighth PGA TOUR win, and his first at the API.

In the last four years, Bryson DeChambeau has had his shot at winning the Arnold Palmer Invitational. Each time, he always came up short — having finished in the top five twice.

But on this windy Sunday afternoon at Bay Hill, DeChambeau didn’t let the past — or Lee Westwood, who sat one stroke back — deter him from doing what he had to do to win.

After watching the Englishman SEE API PAGE 17

SPORTS SPOTLIGHT

OBSERVER

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OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 11, 2021

SPONSORED BY MARK’S FLOORING AND SHANNON TILL/STATE FARM IN FOWLER GROVES

Jordan Phillips Ocoee High junior Jordan Phillips has become a force on the mat for the school’s wrestling team in the heavyweight division. Last year, after just missing qualifying for states, Phillips made his first appearance at states after finishing runner-up at this year’s Class 3A, Region 1 wrestling tournament.

When did you first get into wrestling?

My freshman year, when I was at Olympia — before I transferred to Ocoee — and one of the football coaches happened to be a wrestling coach, (as well). It was like, “Hey, man, you should come out and you should do wrestling.” So I came out that same day for conditioning, because the season hadn’t started yet. I tried out, learned a couple of moves — and the football season had ended — and then the wrestling season started. I went to my first tournament at Windermere High School, and I ended up loving it. That same year, I won the JV Metros, so that was pretty cool.

What has kept you motivated to stay in the sport?

The competition and then me knowing there are ups and downs and everything. My goal is to go to states and win states, but it’s more so just finish strong.

What’s your favorite part about wrestling? What’s the biggest challenge?

I’d probably say my favorite part about wrestling is when I get a take down, because then I know I have the advantage.

Then the most

THE BASICS SCHOOL: Ocoee High GRADE: Junior AGE: 16 SPORT: Wrestling, football WEIGHT CLASS: 285 (Heavyweight) Photos by Troy Herring

challenging part about wrestling would be — when it comes to tournaments and stuff like that — if I lose a match, it will be a little challenging trying to come back. Whereas in football, if you lose in the playoffs, you’re completely done, but when it comes to wrestling in the tournaments, if you lose a match in the tournament, you have to get your mind clear … because you have another match coming up.

How do you bounce back from a loss?

It’s really just motivation. My coach has a saying: “If you lose, then win the next best thing.”

I really just look forward to winning the next best thing — if that’s third place, then I gotta win third place by any means.

Is there a highlight moment for your during your time wrestling?

I would have to say regionals this year. When I was wrestling in the semifinals, I had beat this kid from Bartram Trail, and this kid had to be at least 6-foot-6 — I’m 6-foot-4 — and every bit of 285, and I just remember the dude looked like a grown man. ... He was a senior, and the dude was already committed and everything, so going into the match, I knew I had to bring my “A” game. So when I beat him, it was just a moment of excitement and relief, but at the same time — in my head — I knew, “OK, the job isn’t done yet.”

— TROY HERRING

Eathen Williams sits on the court as he is overcome with emotion.

Right: Jordan Tillery helps Denzel Aberdeen up off the court after a play.

Panthers reign CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15

feet away, Denzel Aberdeen took Ledger Hatch by the hand and embraced him as tears trickled down his cheek.

“From the beginning of our season, we’ve just been talking about going to states,” said Aberdeen, whose game-high 27 points helped will the Panthers to victory. “We’ve been working hard and pushing each other every day in practice just for this moment here — just to run around and tackle each other on the court.”

Head coach Ben Witherspoon took in the scene as he stood off to the side. The gold medal draped around his neck had a weight to it — heavier in more than the physical sense.

He not only was thinking about his team and what they had just accomplished but also about the sacrifice he had to make to be there on that Saturday night. “(It’s) relief, to be honest,” Witherspoon said. “I put a lot of pressure on myself to be great at this, and this week was special.

My grandmother is on her way to transitioning right now, and I told the kids at the beginning of the week, ‘If I ain’t with her, I’m giving you guys everything I got, because she means a lot to me.’

But I had to be here for the kids and we had to get this done, or else I shouldn’t have been here — to be honest.

“It means a ton no matter what’s going on in your life, but (I’m) sacrificing a lot to be here,” he said. “I’m glad we got it done.”

GRIT AND GUTS

Coming off a big win over Oak Ridge in the state semis the day before, the Panthers (23-3) had a ton of momentum going into the Class 7A finals Saturday, March

6, against a Dwyer (14-3) team looking for an upset.

That momentum spilled over into the first half for the Panthers, who shut out Dwyer defensively.

Dr. Phillips held its opponent to just nine points in each of the first two quarters. Meanwhile, on the offensive side of the ball, the Panthers used a 12-2 run in the middle of the second quarter — during which Aberdeen and Riley Kugel each scored a chunk of their 11 first-half points — to push the Panthers to a 28-18 lead at the break.

Although the Panthers took the double-digit advantage into the locker room, big man Ernest Udeh was frustrated throughout the first half after only being able to manage a single point.

“When we play most teams, they’re going to scout us and, of course, I’m going to be a problem for them, so they try and get in my stuff — try to bump me around and push me around, and I just have to man up and take the contact,” Udeh said. “In the first half, I was just really frustrated — to keep it simple … so coming into the third quarter, I just had to leave it all out on the floor. This is our last game, so whatever happens, I have to play my all.”

Udeh finally got his first basket of the game on a thunderous dunk with 6:13 left in the third quarter. But it was on the boards and on defense where the big man shined. By the end of the night, Udeh finished with 13 rebounds while swatting away six shots.

The Panthers held their double-digit lead — pushing it to as much as 33-21 — before Dwyer began to make a move late in the third quarter and into the fourth.

Dwyer chipped away at the Panthers’ lead — finding itself down only 41-40 with 5:08 left to decide a champion.

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But then, just as he had done the entire night, Aberdeen stepped up when his team needed him the most. Instead of driving to the basket as he had done most of the night, Aberdeen pulled up from deep and drained his only three of the night to stop the bleeding and put the Panthers up 44-40 with 4:35 left.

“We knew they were going to go on a run,” Aberdeen said. “We knew we weren’t going to be the only ones who are going to push the offense, so we just stayed calm, listened to coach, took care of the ball and distributed it.”

“Once they started getting on the run, we knew we had to fight back — we can’t just let them get tempo,” said Kugel, who finished the night with 14 points and five rebounds.

From there on out, the Panther capitalized at the charity stripe and regained their legs on defense to hold Dwyer to just six points in the last four minutes to push Dr. Phillips to victory.

UNIVERSAL OR BUST

As family and fans gathered outside of the arena’s loading dock in the back — waiting to greet their champions — a party was erupting in the Dr. Phillips locker room.

After such a challenging season, and decades of frustration for a program that had been on the precipice of glory so many times — only to have it pulled out from under them — the staff and team were sure to soak in the victory for every ounce it offered.

The next big question: What happens now? How would the Panthers celebrate? Aberdeen floated an idea that is sure to be one his teammates would also enjoy.

“We should be going to Universal, since it’s right across the street from our school — we’ll make sure and tell our coach that,” Aberdeen said with a laugh.

As the celebrations are sure to continue off the court for some time, many on the team — including the returning junior core of Kugel, Aberdeen and Udeh — are already plotting for domination next year. They want to do this all over again.

“We’ll most definitely be back here next year,” Kugel said. “Mark my words.”

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API win CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15

knock down a putt from about six feet out to stay at -10, DeChambeau needed to follow up by draining the 5-footer in front of him. He lined up his putt and stood over the ball before stepping back and taking another look — missing this putt would put him tied at -10 with Westwood, sending it to a playoff.

DeChambeau stepped up to the ball and cooly knocked in his putt to stay 11-under to finish the day with a 71 and claim the ever-elusive prize at Bay Hill during the final round of play Sunday, March 7.

“I’m glad I made that last putt,” said DeChambeau, who recorded rounds of 67, 71, 68 and 71 through the four-day tournament. “I did not want to go into a playoff. I took a little extra time on that, because I knew that ball was aimed a little too far right, and sure enough, it was. I took a deep breath (and) was able to execute and knock it in.”

In a tournament filled with incredible moments — which included aces from Jordan Spieth and Jazz Janewattananond during the third round on Saturday — DeChambeau managed to be the showstopper during the four-day event.

DeChambeau has become widely

TOP FIVE

1. Bryson DeChambeau (-11) 2. Lee Westwood (-10) 3. Corey Conners (-8) T4. Andrew Putnam (-6) T4. Richy Werenski (-6) T4. Jordan Spieth (-6) NOTABLE FINISHES T10. Max Homa (-3) T10. Rory McIlroy (-3) T21. Tyrrell Hatton (-1) (2020 API champion) T31. Jason Day (+1) T36. Charles Howell III (+2)

known for his sheer power off the tee, and he put that on full display at the par-5 sixth (565-yard) hole.

While most who approach the hole work their way around the lake that stands between the tee box and flag, DeChambeau did what he does best: Attack.

On both Saturday and Sunday, DeChambeau grabbed his driver and drilled the ball over the lake. At Sunday’s attempt, DeChambeau hit a ball speed of a scorching 196 mph and sent it 377 yards — putting him only 88 yards from the pin.

In these moments, DeChambeau thought about the famous words of Arnold Palmer, who often said, “You must play boldly to win.” For DeChambeau, he saw himself as living up to just that.

“It was a lot of fun, and I was

Mr. Crawford was a widower and is survived by three children, Alan Scott Crawford, Gerald L. Crawford Jr. and Dawn Crawford.

He has three grandchildren, Jonathan and Emily Crawford, Jolene and Mike Beebe, and Rachel and Johnnie Stellebotte; and seven great-grandchildren, Bryce, Brystol, Bentley, Aidan, Jacob, Emma Lynn and Tylen.

Jerry loved watching the Florida Gators football team, playing three-card poker, spending time with his family and eating ice cream! He was also a member of the Baptist Church of Winter Garden, Florida.

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definitely playing a little bold,” DeChambeau said. “But … my hat’s off to Lee. He battled all day out there, and it was an amazing battle, loved every minute of it. I know we’ll be doing it for years to come.”

Along with the earnings of just over $1.6 million, the win served as DeChambeau’s eighth victory on the PGA TOUR and pushed him into the No. 1 position of the FedEx Cup standings. But more than anything, it was a moment to embrace a win at the place built by one of his biggest heroes.

“It’s beyond my wildest dreams for Mr. Palmer’s event,” DeChambeau said. “(I) came hear as an amateur, he gave me an invitation, and I loved this golf course the minute I arrived. I love the atmosphere, and I love the fans — I loved what Mr. Palmer did with this place and what he’s done and his legacy he’s left here. It’s quite amazing.”

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Gerald “Jerry” L. Crawford, of Winter Garden, Florida, passed Sunday, Feb. 28, 2021. He was 95 years old.

Mr. Crawford was born and raised in Winter Garden, Florida, where he attended Lakeview High School. In 1943, he enlisted in the United Stated Coast Guard and served for three years as a Gunner’s Mate Second Class.

Upon returning home from service, Jerry attended Stetson University in DeLand, Florida, where he was a member of

Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity and received a bachelor’s degree in business administration, major in accounting, in 1949.

Jerry’s employment started in 1950, when he was hired by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and worked for three years as a special agent. After marrying Barbara Ann Brown and starting a family, they moved to Orlando, Florida, where he was employed by the Orange County Sheriff’s Office for 16 years. He went to work for Boeing Co. in 1965, as a financial analyst and budget preparation. He retired from Martin Marietta in 1992.

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Celebrate Natural Gas Utility Workers’ Day with Lake Apopka Natural Gas District

E

very year on March 18, public natural gas utilities across the nation, including Lake Apopka Natural Gas District (LANGD), observe Natural Gas Utility Workers’ Day to recognize the indispensable field workers that keep gas flowing safely in nearly 177 million Americans homes, businesses and vehicles.

that led to the widespread odorization of natural gas and an increased emphasis on industry safety. And, since safety is a vital aspect to natural gas distribution across the country, APGA believed there was no better date to recognize the natural gas utility workers who commit to safety every day.

Founded by the American Public Gas Association (APGA) in 2015, Natural Gas Utility Workers’ Day is a time to celebrate the hard work of natural gas utility employees’ commitment to safety, in addition to their accomplishments.

The annual event is also an opportunity to build public awareness about the work done by natural gas utility employees and to educate local residents on the environmental, safety and cost benefits of choosing a clean, reliable, and affordable energy mix.

2020 marked the tenth consecutive year LANGD was named a winner of the APGA’s Safety Management Excellence Award for consistently operating safely and at the highest levels. The organization was also awarded the APGA Gold System Operational Achievement Recognition (SOAR) Award – the highest honor in the natural gas industry – for excellence in the operation of their natural gas utility in 2020. In 2020 LANGD also passed the Florida Public Service Commission annual audit with no significant violations of Commission rules.

March 18 has been an important day in the history of the natural gas industry long before 2015. The date marks the events that unfolded during the New London, Texas school incident in 1937

This year, LANGD will recognize its natural gas utility field workers at its “Taking Care of Business Everyday” luncheon. At the event, District General Manager & CEO, Samuel Davis Jr., will thank each

of LANGD’s natural gas utility workers by presenting them with a photo of Utility Workers, gift cards and t-shirts as an expression of the organization’s gratitude, and we will celebrate the team’s excellent safety audits and award wins.

Now serving over 25,000 customers in the Apopka, Clermont and Winter Garden areas, LANGD is committed to providing safe and reliable natural gas service to every home and business it serves.

On this Natural Gas Utility Workers’ Day, we hope you will join us in congratulating LANGD’s hard-working field workers that help keep your lights on and your water hot, no matter the circumstances.

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