Overcoming insecurities
HAMLIN CRAFT BEER FEST IS BREWING IN HORIZON WEST
The third annual Hamlin Craft Beer Fest is coming back Saturday, March 28, in support of Legacy Events for Education.
Taking place from 4 to 7 p.m. at 14111 Shoreside Way, Winter Garden, the event will feature a variety of craft brewers, more than 70 types of beer, ciders and more from local, state and national companies. Food trucks also will be there.
The 21-and-over event will include a Fun Zone offering beer pong, mini golf and cornhole. A DJ also will be present, providing music and fun to attendees. No children are allowed at the event, but four-legged friends are welcome.
Tickets vary from $5 to $60. Visit bitly/4d95p4c to purchase your tickets.
Legacy Events for Education provides scholarships and grants for arts, academics and athletics for high school students. Students also have the opportunity to earn volunteer hours.
The nonprofit also hosts educational programs for students and their parents throughout West Orange County public high schools.
Elizaveta Makarenko, creator of 3D animated short film “Beautify,” is heading to Los Angeles for the Television Academy Foundation’s 45th annual College Television Awards. STORY ON PAGE 4A.
Photo by Leticia Silva
Elizabeta Makarenko is excited to fly to Los Angeles for the College Television Awards. Her short is a finalist for the Animation Series category.
5FAST
1Winter Garden high schooler dies after drowning
The Winter Garden community is mourning the loss of a West Orange High School senior.
Ricky Alejandro Martinez, 19, from Winter Garden, and his friends went to Ormond Beach Saturday, March 14, to enjoy the beginning of spring break.
Martinez was swimming in an area with no lifeguards around 1 p.m. and was caught in a rip current.
By the time Beach Safety officials pulled him out of the water, he was unconscious.
CPR was administered until ambulances arrived at the scene to transport Martinez to the hospital, but he died later that day.
What made Ricky truly special was his heart,” according to his obituary. “He consistently put others before himself and made it his mission to love, support and care for those around him. … But more than anything, he was known for his constant smile, contagious laughter and joyful spirit. He had a way of making every one feel seen, loved and included.” na and Richard Martinez, his sister Sierra Martinez and his dog Levi.
place Saturday, March 21. ever
prepared for a moment like this and any help whether through donations, time, prayers or support is deeply appreciated,” his sister wrote. To donate to the Martinez family, visit bit.ly/4d3JY4n.
2
Structural instability prompts residents to evacuate
The Orange County Fire Rescue Dispatch Center received calls from residents in The Rialto apartments in Dr. Phillips at approximately 5 a.m. Thursday, March 19, reporting loud popping sounds from the building and jammed front doors.
This immediately raised concerns of structural instability, which prompted Orange County Fire Rescue, along with the Orange County Sheriff’s Office and the Orange County Building Safety Division, to respond to the apartment complex, located at 7343 W. Sand Lake Road, Orlando.
Safety Division has directed the building’s property management to have the building inspected and evaluated by a Florida-licensed engineer or architect to determine the cause of damage, if the building is safe to occupy and any needed repairs.
3
Driftwood Market finds new home Driftwood Market has found its new home right in Winter Garden after announcing it was closing its location on Plant Street in February due to change in building ownership.
“While change is never easy, we truly believe this next chapter is something special,” the shop wrote on its social media post. “We are staying right here, in the town we love, continuing to do what we love, with all of you by our side.”
The details of when the new location will open and the date of the ribbon cutting still are to come.
4
Nightly road closures planned for State Road 429 Drivers should be prepared for nightly road closures
Drivers will be directed to exit at Schofield Road and re-enter southbound S.R. 429 using the Schofield Road on ramp.
Ocoee resident arrested for possession of child sexual abuse material
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement arrested Jhonatan Marcello Tulio, 32, on two counts of possession of child sexual abuse material and one count of transmission of child sexual abuse material. According to FDLE’s press release, an investigation on Tulio began in November 2025 after agents received a tip online from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children of an individual uploading and sharing child sexual abuse material through multiple platforms. Through further investigations, FDLE identified Tulio as the user of those accounts.
On Thursday, March 12, FDLE Cybercrime Task Force agents and
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The Florida Department of Law Enforcement detained Jhonatan Marcello Tulio at his Ocoee home.
New leader takes helm of Windermere Prep
As the new head of school, Alex Birchenall wants to honor the 25-year history and legacy of the school while also looking to expand the school and its programs.
Through moments of coaching, working with the kids, seeing the difference he was making in young lives, he started to feel a sense of impact from his work.
“When they work hard and feel supported and you see them achieving success, that’s still what does it for me,” Birchenall said. “I get the most joy out of watching our students perform and seeing our kids excel in sports, the things they’re passionate about. To see them do really well, that’s what still inspires me and keeps me going.”
He left the sports psychology track and started down the road to becoming a teacher with hopes it also would lead to more coaching opportunities.
Prep in the 2023-2024 school year as the assistant head of school.
When Mitchell Salerno accepted a position as the managing director for the U.S. schools for Nord Anglia Education, Birchenall moved into the interim head of school role and threw his hat into the ring for the permanent position. He was announced as the permanent head of school March 5.
“It’s a great honor,” he said. “I’m very grateful for the opportunity to lead such an extraordinary community. Windermere Prep has a great history and tradition that people who have been here really value, and so it’s an enormous responsibility to uphold those values while still looking ahead to the future, thinking about how we continue to grow and improve and continually make the school better for our students and the families that come here.”
forgotten his roots as a teacher, engaging with students and understanding the importance of building relationships with students and staff.
He’s found ways to interact with students through their passions. As the assistant head of school at Windermere Prep, he played the role of Harvard admissions guy in the school’s production of “Legally Blonde.”
“I was never an actor,” Birchenall said with a smile. “I don’t have any skill in the performing arts at all, but just being able to have those kind of opportunities to work with kids in that setting was a lot of fun, and I never imagined I’d be doing it.”
also financial success of the school. He has had to learn the business side of running a school, which he said has been the biggest adjustment.
Birchenall is helping to lead the charge in Windermere Prep’s expansion.
The school is operating at 100% capacity with families who want to come to the school but aren’t able to due to enrollment capacity. The greatest need is at the elementary level, so Windermere Prep is exploring its options to allow the school to grow and offer more programs.
Being a swimmer and runner in college, Alex Birchenall knew he wanted to be a coach.
He dreamed of becoming a collegiate swim coach and originally studied sports psychology in college, but his path shifted.
Those moments helping to lead his athletes to success turned into moments of success in the classroom, and now it has led to seeing a pre-K-12 private school succeed as Birchenall has been announced as the new head of school at Windermere Preparatory School.
Birchenall came to Windermere
Birchenall started his teaching career in 2006 as a public school teacher in New York City. As a young teacher, he never imagined he would become a head of school years later. All he ever wanted to do was teach. But people encouraged him to pursue leadership roles, and he climbed up the ladder to head of school.
As he’s become a leader, he’s never
Being a leader at Windermere Prep has given him opportunities to travel the world with students. He’s been to Tanzania on the annual trip students take to the Nazreti village. He’s traveled to the Swiss Alps with students on a summer trip.
The experiences have taught him there are a plethora of opportunities for students to pursue excellence at a high level in various areas, whether it’s sports, the arts, STEM, etc.
But now as head of school, his responsibilities reach beyond the classroom as he’s not only charged with ensuring academic success but
Egg-straordinary day for a hunt
Children of all ages collected as many eggs as they could during Roper YMCA’s Easter Egg Hunt.
Madison Cartwright, who is 5, chose her spot along the sideline of the Roper YMCA soccer field because it was the least crowded. She was ready. She had her eye on the prize: a gold egg 2 feet in front of her.
Cartwright had her strategy in place to collect the most eggs she could during the Roper YMCA’s Easter Egg Hunt Saturday, March 21.
Cartwright was one of dozens of children lined the soccer field waiting for the countdown and the egg hunt to start.
Together, they counted down from 10, and they were off.
Children, bunched in three different age groups, were on the hunt for as many eggs as they could collect.
Within minutes, the hunt was over, and children were seeing the prizes held in their eggs.
There will be a community meeting Thursday, March 26, for a potential Windermere Prep elementary campus in Horizon West. If constructed, the school will be a two-story, kindergarten through fifth grade campus with a capacity of 880 students as well as associated sports fields.
Birchenall said Horizon West is rapidly growing, and the school is seeing a demographic shift with more of the school’s families coming from that area.
While honoring the school’s history and legacy, Birchenall also is looking to the future with desires to continue to grow and add programs that will give every student “rich opportunities to grow, discover their interests and their passions, and find a place where they are thriving and feel known, valued and cared for.”
LIZ RAMOS
Above: Madison Cartwright, who is 5, had a strategy. She chose a spot on the sideline that was least crowded and knew exactly which egg she could go after first.
Left: Caroline Harris, who is 2, held as many eggs as she could before placing them in her basket and running off for more.
Children sprinted to the eggs with smiles on their faces.
Alex Birchenall is the new head of school at Windermere Preparatory School.
Destiana Cotton, who is 3, carefully opened each egg to see the prize inside.
Photo by Liz Ramos
Finding the beauty within
Dr. Phillips High alumna created an animated short about conforming to societal standards. The short film now is one of three nominated for the College Television Awards’ Animation Series category.
WRITER
Growing up in Russia, Elizaveta Makarenko always watched 2D cartoons and movies. It was something she truly enjoyed.
At the movie theaters, she was introduced to 3D Pixar movies such as “Finding Nemo,” “The Incredibles,” “Cars” and her favorite “WALL-E.”
“I was like, ‘Wait a second, this is different,’” she said. “I think my origin of 3D love came from there.”
Since childhood, Makarenko, who graduated from Dr. Phillips High School, always assumed she’d pursue art. She enjoyed the craft, the joy it brought her and the outcome of her drawings.
“Maybe this is something I’m good at,” she said to herself. “Maybe I should pursue that.”
Being artistically inclined, she applied to Ringling College of Art and Design, acquiring a degree in computer animation.
Today, her thesis project, “Beautify,” has received multiple nominations and awards and currently is nominated for the Animation Series category of the College Television Awards Animation Series, which will take place Saturday, March 28.
FACING INSECURITIES
“Beautify” is a two-minute, 3D animated short film about conforming to societal standards.
Vera, the main character, struggles with her looks, visibly upset about her acne and under-eye bags.
She opened her cellphone’s front camera and cringed at the sight of it.
She then activated a beauty filter, which erased her acne, her under-eye bags and her tired look. Only then was she happy.
However, havoc broke loose when her edited, beautified self came out of her phone and dragged Vera inside the beauty filter, trapping her.
She wickedly tried taking over Vera’s life, believing she was better.
Terrified of what would happen next, Vera shattered the screen from the inside with her forehead, escaping and destroying the beautified version of herself. She was relieved. Her beautified self couldn’t trap her anymore, she wasn’t the one in control.
Vera grabbed her phone, deleted the app and put her phone down.
Looking at herself in the mirror with a smile on her face, “perfect,” was what she told herself.
“The point is that not all women look like a Disney-esque Rapunzel, we can look different,” Makarenko said. “What matters really is how we perceive ourselves. … If you find yourself perfect and beautiful, that’s all that really matters.”
ANIMATED JOURNEY
Makarenko did not originally plan to create “Beautify,” but she is grateful that’s the path she took.
During her second year at Ringling College of Art and Design, her class was told to come up with short-film ideas, which would then blossom into a complete short film during a twoyear period.
Her first idea was about a girl with a second personality, but after receiving advice from her professors, she changed directions with some hesitancy.
At first, she was reluctant about “Beautify” because she was unsure how she could spend two years working on a project about her own insecurities.
“I think at some point, I got uncomfortable with even turning on FaceTime,” she said. “I would just voicecall people because I felt like I didn’t look good. … It got kind of heavy because there’s a version of you that you see through this beautify filter, and then there’s this version on FaceTime that you can’t put (a filter) on.”
She told herself she would put her insecurities aside and have fun making the film.
“It’s a message for myself and the people around me,” Makarenko said.
“Beautify filters can change our appearances but they can’t change who we are.”
Working on the film was no easy task, but she was determined to make it her best project yet.
The first year of the project was creating the storyboard, sketching the story scene-by-scene including
characters’ actions, movements and emotions.
She purposefully chose the main character, Vera, to be green, and her beautified version to be pink.
“Vera is teal-ish, green-ish, grayish for the reason that she’s very jealous of what she could be,” Makarenko said. “Green being jealousy, gray meaning she’s kind of dulled out, she’s tired. … That’s why her whole bathroom and everything in it is green — because she’s always in a slump.”
She chose pink for Vera’s beautified version as society associates the color pink with girls, further exploring societal standards for women.
The second year was putting it all together: the storyboard, animations, music, sound effects, lighting, voices and more.
She periodically had to show other Ringling College of Arts and Design students her progress, receiving positive feedback every time.
“People would come up to me and say, ‘This is an experience I had, thank you so much for making this,’ and we’d bond over it,” she said. “It’s cool, it’s like a little community that grew from this message.”
Makarenko said it feels nice to be able to empower others through her short film.
“It’s the most rewarding thing ever,” she said.
RED CARPET READY
Makarenko, now a Ringling College of Arts and Design graduate, will fly out to Los Angeles for the College Television Awards, Saturday, March 28, where “Beautify” is a finalist for an
45TH COLLEGE TELEVISION AWARDS
WHEN: 6 p.m. Saturday, March 28
WHERE: Wolf Theatre at the Saban Media Center in North Hollywood WHERE TO WATCH: televisionacademy.com/foundation/programs/cta WATCH THE SHORT: vimeo. com/1097402929
Animation Series award.
Previously, the short film was awarded the Gold Juror’s Award at Best of Ringling 2025, Best 3D Animation award at the Oxford International Film Festival, and was a finalist at the 2025 Rookie Awards and the 2025 Student Academy Awards.
“I never expected this,” she said. “I’m excited to fly to L.A. and meet all these cool people, though. Being part of this creative job market, I realized it’s all about people. The stuff I make is cool, but it’s the coolest to get to work with these people, get to talk to them and open my eyes to new things.”
Through the creation of “Beautify,”
Makarenko learned to keep pushing forward just like the character, Vera.
She is grateful for how “Beautify” has shaped her career and pointed her in the right direction.
Today, she works at Sky Elements Drone, what she considers “the same as 3D modeling.”
“I would have never guessed that I would be doing this, not in a million years, but it’s been really awesome,” she said. “I get to apply all the skills I already know into this medium. It’s really cool.”
Thanks to her education at Ringling College of Arts and Design, she now chooses the artistic direction, movement and animation of the drones, much like she did with her short film.
Makarenko also is working on a different short film. While the project is coming along slower than she’d like, she is tenacious.
To her, she is where she wants to be — happy, confident and humble.
Design
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WEST ORANGE TIMES
Vera is terrified of her beautified version coming out of her phone in the animated short film “Beautify.”
LETICIA SILVA STAFF
Elizaveta Makarenko worked on “Beautify” for two years while studying at Ringling College of Arts and Design.
Photo by Leticia Silva
Act 2: A home is on the horizon
Horizon West Theater Company now will have its own facility at 1220 Winter Garden-Vineland Road, Winter Garden, providing consistency for its actors, dancers, volunteers and followers.
It’s going to be designed to be organic and flexible.”
After meeting in preschool classrooms, hotel ballrooms, daycares and more, Horizon West Theater Co. finally has found its forever home, providing stability to the company and its members.
The nonprofit is renovating a onestory, 2,400-square-foot building located at 1220 Winter GardenVineland Road to call home after reaching the $150,000 fundraising goal through its Act 2 fundraiser.
“It’s going to give (members of Horizon West Theater Co.) a physical home base to come to, where we can have our stuff here,” said Ryan Jalernpan, the marketing chair for Horizon West Theater Co. “What’s challenging about renting other spaces is that we couldn’t leave anything there and it just wasn’t ours. This space is going to give them a home base to just come hang out. That’s our hope, a place for the community — even if they’re not doing anything— to just come and hang out.”
Acquiring the new facility comes two years after the nonprofit’s board of directors decided to start the search, recognizing the need for a permanent facility.
“We just found out it was getting nearly impossible to do all the programs that we wanted and what was requested by the community without having a space, just because we had to rent hotels, schools, all that stuff,” Jalernpan said.
The new facility, which is estimated to open in the summertime, consists of two studio spaces: one serving as a performance space and the other as a workshop, classes and camps studio.
“The whole building is going to be as flexible as we can make it to be able to do all kinds of programming throughout, so nothing is super permanently there,” Jalernpan said. “We’re going to be able to modify it as we need to throughout the year. …
Jalernpan said operating costs and utilities will be about $55,000 per year, and although that’s a significant amount, the company is certain it’ll be worth it.
With the new space, the nonprofit hopes to offer more classes and workshops as well as host more performances.
“We want to offer acting classes, improv classes, musical theory classes, all kinds of dances, just all the things that the community has been asking for,” he said. “We are so excited to be able to offer that now.”
Meanwhile, company members are working diligently to get renovations completed to welcome the community.
“We want to paint it and kind of brand it to make it custom fit us,” he said. “There’s a lot of cosmetic stuff we’re working on.”
Horizon West Theater Co. also is adding a second bathroom to the facility and redoing the flooring of the studios. There also are plans to build a stage soon.
“It’s not going to be your traditional theater,” he said. “It’s more about creating a theater home that has all kinds of offerings, and the shows are just going to be super different versus your typical sitting-audience just watching the stage.”
Currently, the company is looking for help to complete the flooring and bathroom projects.
Jalernpan said material donations are greatly appreciated, as well as any other form of support the community is willing to give.
“I’m looking forward to having a space where everyone is welcome,”
Jalernpan said. “That sounds silly, but we have such a strong community here and such a big art scene that we want anyone interested in the arts —whether they’re super new or have experience — to come through our doorways and just have a safe space to explore all of the arts.”
Jazzed for the festival
Hundreds gathered at the Ocoee Lakeshore Center’s green space to listen to live jazz performances at HAPCO Jazz Fest 2026 Friday, March 20. People brought lawn chairs, jackets, blankets and snacks to enjoy the event, getting cozied up during the cool evening. For an additional price, attendees also enjoyed food and wine to elevate the experience while giving back to HAPCO’s educational programs.
Ocoee High School Jazz Band kicked off the event with a one-hour performance, followed by Andrew Kennedy Quartet and Scott Wilson and the UF Jazz All Stars. HAPCO Music Foundation, which is celebrating its 25th anniversary, has assisted thousands of children and teens in low-income communities further their education through music and the arts.
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LETICIA SILVA
Alec and Theresa Nachtsheim had big smiles on their faces all throughout the event.
Below: Andrew Kennedy Quartet’s performance was meaningful to HAPCO as Kennedy was introduced to the nonprofit more than 10 years ago.
LETICIA SILVA STAFF WRITER
Courtesy photo
Horizon West Theater Co. members celebrated the announcement of the nonprofit purchasing the permanent facility.
Rising fuel costs impact nonprofits
The war in Iran has inflicted financial insecurity on many families in the U.S., but it also has impacted the organizations who serve those families.
LETICIA SILVA STAFF WRITER
Matthew’s Hope is cutting back on the amount of food it provides its communities due to rising costs in fuel.
Founder and CEO Scott Billue said the nonprofit already is experiencing a 30% jump in fuel costs in just two weeks as the cost of gas increases, reaching nearly $4 per gallon.
While Billue budgeted $4 per gallon for the ministries’ buses, it now is approaching $7 per gallon.
“How much of that can we absorb?” he asked himself. “How do we do it?”
The increase cost in fuel is causing local nonprofits such as Matthew’s Hope, Southeastern Food and others to make cuts to services to ensure they still can serve the community.
Since the conflict with Iran began Feb. 28, fuel prices have surged by more than 30% or $1 per gallon nationally.
In Florida, it’s increased by roughly 45%, with gas prices reaching an
average of near $3.95 to $4 per gallon, marking the highest prices the market has seen since 2023.
On top of the buses, Matthew’s Hope goes mobile into the community, handing out food bags that typically include sandwiches, granola bars, fruits, water bottles and more, as well as transporting the homeless to medical appointments.
The nonprofit has 23 vehicles.
“It’s a lot of fuel,” Billue said. “The only thing you can do is cut back. …
For our own preservation and to make sure we’re here as long as we can to help as many people as we can, we’re going to have to make some cutbacks, and food is one area we’re going to do that in. The downside is that less food is available to everybody already and we’re saying even less.”
One way food is being cut back at Matthew’s Hope is through its food pantry days on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
“We had to cut (the amount of food provided) in half because I don’t know where I’m going to get the money to cover the extra fuel costs and the extra food costs, along with everything else,” he said. “Even the cost of our showers go up because our showers are run off natural gas.”
Billue said with costs rising in almost every category of expenditures, smaller nonprofits are shutting down or backing down on services, which increases the amount of people the ministries serve.
While the nonprofit struggles with its finances due to rising costs so do donors.
“They’re telling us, ‘We want to help, but we don’t know when we might be calling for help ourselves because of the uncertainty with what’s happening in the economy,’” Billue said.
After spending $70,000 to open freeze warning emergency shelters eight times since November, the nonprofit is unsure of what comes next.
“It’s almost like falling from one crisis into another,” he said. “Somehow, by the grace of God, we’ve made it to 16 years. I feel very confidently that we’re going to make it another 16 years, but I think we’re in for a rocky
Chance to connect
Student Connectivity Day introduces students to school clubs and organizations that could spark new passions and connection with classmates.
LIZ RAMOS MANAGING EDITOR
Horizon High School’s Zahara Perfecto and Joseph Gonzalez watched the computer monitor carefully as they used controllers to have their Smash Brothers characters attack each other. Smash Brothers was one of several video games played in the Esports classroom during Student Connectivity Day Thursday, March 12. The room was open to any students
interested in learning more about the Esports club or to simply play video games with friends or classmates during the quarterly Student Connectivity Day.
“It’s a little place to escape for the time that’s given, especially here where you can be with friends and play video games,” Gonzalez said.
Student Connectivity Day is a new districtwide initiative at all high schools this school year.
Orange County Public Schools asked all high schools to take time
out of one day for the first three quarters in the 2025-2026 school year to have students involved in activities to become connected.
Horizon High School already had Club Day at the school in which clubs invited students to learn about what they do.
Assistant Principal and Student Connectivity Day coordinator Takia
Chiles said for the first Student Connectivity Day, many high schools had a Club Day, but Horizon High’s leadership team met and decided to add
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road and process to get there.”
Southeastern Food Bank in Ocoee also is struggling.
Founder Mark Anthony said the increase cost in fuel is affecting the nonprofit’s funds every day.
Picking up food from all over the state, the nonprofit is spending 25% more than usual.
If the rising costs stay consistent, Southeastern Food Bank might spend more than $25,000 yearly just in fuel.
Anthony’s solution to maintain services the same while facing financial challenges is to pay for fuel with credit cards.
“The cost of using credit cards can be dangerous,” he said. “But we want to keep that food flowing to our partners and to our sub distributors.”
With cost uncertainties and the future unknown, all nonprofits can do is be hopeful.
If prices continue to rise, Anthony said the nonprofit likely will exceed its fuel budget.
On top of that, the food demand also is increasing.
“We have more and more organizations and surges of nonprofits coming to us for food because of the increased demand,” he said. “We’re going
through a lot of groceries real fast.”
With a higher food demand, more fuel is used to get the supplies, costing the nonprofit more money.
“Back in the ole days (in 2008), we were in the hole about $14,000, so it’s not going to stop us now,” Anthony said. “We’ll continue to (do what we do) because those people are counting on us. We’ll continue to do what we’re supposed to do.”
For now, nonprofits are asking for financial support to continue providing their essential services to the communities in need, including the elderly, children, people with disabilities and the underprivileged.
“There’s more people in need, so we got to figure it out,” Billue said.
HOW TO DONATE
Visit matthewshopeministries. org to donate.
Visit southeasternfoodbank.com to donate.
These aren’t the only organizations in need. Reach out to your local nonprofits and find out how you can support them.
other aspects of the day.
Teachers who weren’t already advisers of an established club could create an interest room.
Students then received a Google form to be able to choose which clubs or interest rooms they would visit.
Chiles said Student Connectivity Day allows students who aren’t able to participate in extracurriculars after school a chance to get involved during the school day.
“They get a chance to have a good time, meet with their like-minded friends … and find an interest or group,” Chiles said. “I think it’s important for kids to feel involved, because now not only are they seeing the kids in their academics, but (also) they’re seeing interest areas like ‘I like puzzles or I like horror films or I like to dance in theater.’ We have an array of things.”
Across the various high schools, there was a plethora of clubs, organizations and activities in which
students could learn about and be involved.
From creative and arts clubs to sports to gaming of all types to performing arts and entertainment, students were bustling around their high schools talking, participating and having fun.
At Horizon High, while Gonzalez and Perfecto were playing video games in one classroom, Sofia Gunia, Ana Lia Martins Freire and Manuela Oliveira Coelho were putting together a puzzle in another classroom. Dozens of students were creating chalk art outside. Serenity Ball was attempting to solve a crime in the crime scene investigation classroom. In the future, Chiles said the school is looking to expand everything the students are doing depending on a survey that will be sent to the students to receive feedback on Student Connectivity Day.
Photos by Liz Ramos
Zahara Perfecto and Joseph Gonzalez played Smash Brothers. There were several video games available to play.
Serenity Ball used all the clues available to solve the crime in the crime scene investigation classroom.
West Orange Chamber of Commerce Celebrates Business
The West Orange Chamber recognizes and applauds our long-standing member businesses for their continued commitment to Advancing Community, Collaboration and Leadership. Congratulations on Membership Milestones to
West Orange Chamber of Commerce celebrates the 100-year anniversary of R.C. Stevens Construction Company
The West Orange Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors celebrated the 100-year anniversary of R.C. Stevens Construction Company. Located at 28 S Main St in downtown Winter Garden, R.C. Stevens Construction Company - celebrating over a century of building excellence - is a premier Central Florida General Contractor specializing in industrial, healthcare, commercial, and government projects. Known for integrity, innovation, and quality, RCS delivers full-service preconstruction, construction management, general contracting, and design-build solutions. A dedicated community partner, RCS has proudly supported the WOCC as a Community Trustee for several years and has shaped local landmarks including the Healthy West Orange Heritage & Cultural Center, The Exchange, The Garden Building, and historical renovations of The Bond Building and Garden Theater. To learn more, visit https://rcstevens.com/.
West Orange Chamber of Commerce celebrates the grand opening of WOW
Windowboxes Orlando
The West Orange Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors celebrated the grand opening of WOW Windowboxes Orlando. Located at 1010 Ocoee-Apopka Rd #510 in Apopka, WOW Windowboxes Orlando creates custom, seasonal windowboxes and planters that bring beauty, color, and life to homes and businesses throughout Orlando and West Orange County. They design, install, and maintain durable, long-lasting PVC windowboxes and planters, including irrigation, thoughtfully designed with premium flowers sourced from local growers and refreshed throughout the year. As a local family-owned business, their full-service approach makes it easy to enjoy thoughtful exterior design, elevated curb appeal, and spaces that feel welcoming, cared for, and alive. To learn more, visit https://wowwindowboxes.com/orlando-west/.
West Orange Chamber of Commerce celebrates the 30-year anniversary of Computer Business Consultants
The West Orange Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors celebrated the 30-year anniversary of Computer Business Consultants. Located at 940 W Oakland Ave Ste A-8 in Oakland, Computer Business Consultants is Orlando’s premier IT partner, providing proactive managed IT services, cloud solutions, cybersecurity, and strategic consulting services since 1996. With a customer first approach and advanced tech, CBC helps businesses stay focused on growth through reliable customized IT solutions. To learn more, visit https://computerbusiness.com/.
West
Orange Chamber of Commerce celebrates the grand opening of Horizon
West Regional Park
The West Orange Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors celebrated the grand opening of Courtyard by Marriott across Universal Orlando. Located at 5916 Caravan Ct in Orlando, Courtyard by Marriott across Universal Orlando is ideally located directly across from Universal Orlando Resort and minutes from International Drive and the Orange County Convention Center. Their hotel offers modern guest rooms, flexible meeting space, complimentary Wi-Fi, and convenient amenities for both business and leisure travelers. As part of the Marriott brand, they are committed to delivering elevated service, comfort, and a welcoming experience for guests visiting the Orlando area. To learn more, visit https://www. marriott.com/mcoyu.
THE WEST ORANGE CHAMBER OFFERS 4 NETWORKING GROUPS TUESDAY, WEDNESDAY, THURSDAY - DR. PHILLIPS AND THURSDAY - HORIZON WEST
To learn more and to register for participation visit wochamber.com/ChamberGroups or call 407-656-1304
Ahome in the Casabella community near Horizon West topped all West Orange-area residential real-estate transactions from Feb. 9 to 15.
The home at 13125 Casabella Drive, Winter Garden, sold Feb. 10, for $3,075,000. Built in 2018, it has five bedrooms, five-and-one-half baths and 7,561 square feet of living area. Days on market: 273. The sellers were represented by Eduardo Pavone, On Me Realty.
These are the highestselling homes in each community in West Orange.
DR. PHILLIPS
BAY HILL
The home at 6058 Jamestown Park, Unit GE, Orlando, sold Feb. 13, for $1,150,000. Built in 1988, it has three bedrooms, two-andone-half baths and 2,475 square feet of living area.
BAY PARK
The home at 5638 Craindale Drive, Orlando, sold Feb. 11, for $729,500. Built in 1992, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,747 square feet of living area. Days on market: 36.
BAY RIDGE
The home at 7040 Somerton Blvd., No. 52, Orlando, sold Feb. 9, for $615,000. Built in 1993, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,686 square feet of living area. Days on market: 12.
GRANADA VILLAS
The home at 8059 N. Cadiz Court, Orlando, sold Feb. 11, for $460,000. Built in 1985, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,295 square feet of living area. Days on market: Three.
HIDDEN BEACH
The home at 6516 Moonshell Court, Orlando, sold Feb. 13, for $499,000. Built in 1985, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,541 square feet of living area. Days on market: 101.
HORIZON WEST CASABELLA
The home at 13125 Casabella Drive, Winter Garden, sold Feb. 10, for $3,075,000. Built in 2018, it has five bedrooms, five-and-one-half baths and 7,561 square feet of living area. Days on market: 273.
The home at 4047 Isabella Circle, Windermere, sold Feb. 12, for $2,750,000. Built in 2019, it has six bedrooms, seven-and-one-half baths and 8,372 square feet of living area. Days on market: 125.
EDEN ISLE
The home at 6368 Sedona Leaf Court, Windermere, sold Feb. 9, for $649,900. Built in 2,285, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,285 square feet of living area.
LAKE AVALON HEIGHTS
The home at 17561 Seidner Road, Winter Garden, sold Feb. 11, for $900,000. Built in 1987, it has four bedrooms, four baths and 2,850
square feet of living area. Days on market: Four.
LAKE BURDEN SOUTH
The home at 11507 Center Lake Drive, Windermere, sold Feb. 13, for $970,000. Built in 2016, it has four bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 3,766 square feet of living area. Days on market: 319.
OAKLAND JOHNS COVE
The home at 1017 Johns Point Drive, Oakland, sold Feb. 13, for $2,050,000. Built in 2001, it has five bedrooms, six baths and 6,141 square feet of living area. Days on market: Six.
OCOEE
ADMIRAL POINTE
The home at 806 Lancer Circle, Ocoee, sold Feb. 10, for $455,000. Built in 1998, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,233 square feet of living area. Days on market: 146.
BORDEAUX
The condo at 1101 Vintage Village Lane, No. 104, Ocoee, sold Feb. 12, for $177,500. Built in 2001, it has one bedroom, one bath and 812 square feet of living area. Days on market: Five.
FOREST OAKS
The home at 1617 Prairie Lake Blvd., Ocoee, sold Feb. 12, for
$350,000. Built in 1985, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 1,371 square feet of living area. Days on market: Six.
FORESTBROOKE
The home at 3278 Fawnwood Drive, Ocoee, sold Feb. 13, for $612,000. Built in 2006, it has five bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 3,814 square feet of living area. Days on market: 31.
MCCORMICK WOODS
The home at 3481 McCormick Woods Drive, Ocoee, sold Feb. 13, for $515,000. Built in 2010, it has five bedrooms, three baths and 2,550 square feet of living area. Days on market: 49.
NORTH OCOEE ADDITION
The home at 305 16th Ave., Ocoee, sold Feb. 11, for $185,000. Built in 1963, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,663 square feet of living area. Days on market: 17.
SOUTHWEST ORANGE
GOLDEN OAK FLORIAN PARK
CONDOMINIUM
The home at 10160 Autumn Mist Lane, No. 302, Orlando, sold Feb. 10, for $5,628,000. Built in 2025, it has three bedrooms, three-andone-half baths and 3,715 square feet of living area. Days on market: 288.
ROYAL LEGACY ESTATES
The home at 9605 Royal Estates Blvd., Orlando, sold Feb. 13, for $584,500. Built in 2018, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,000 square feet of living area. Days on market: Two.
WINDERMERE
KEENE’S POINTE
The home at 8222 Stone Mason Court, Windermere, sold Feb. 13, for $2,800,000. Built in 2007, it has six bedrooms, six-and-onehalf baths and 6,834 square feet of living area. Days on market: 36.
RESERVE AT BELMERE
The home at 1803 Glenbay Court, Windermere, sold Feb. 13, for $800,000. Built in 2004, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 3,040 square feet of living area. Days on market: 87.
TOWN OF WINDERMERE
The home at 647 Ridgewood Drive, Windermere, sold Feb. 9, for $2,075,000. Built in 1974, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 2,681 square feet of living area. Days on market: 337.
WINDERMERE DOWNS
The home at 9792 Wild Oak Drive, Windermere, sold Feb. 13, for $700,000. Built in 1982, it has three bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 3,102 square feet of living area. Days on market: 106.
The home at 1735 Maple Leaf Drive, Windermere, sold Feb. 11, for $825,000. Built in 1989, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,771 square feet of living area. Days on market: Three.
WINTER GARDEN
BLACK LAKE PRESERVE
The home at 14481 Breakwater Way, Winter Garden, sold Feb. 9, for $610,000. Built in 2016, it has five bedrooms, three baths and 3,690 square feet of living area. Days on market: 176.
CYPRESS RESERVE
The home at 14073 Jomatt Loop, Winter Garden, sold Feb. 10, for $995,000. Built in 2018, it has seven bedrooms, four baths and 4,847 square feet of living area. Days on market: 55.
HERITAGE AT PLANT STREET
The townhouse at 647 E. Plant St., Winter Garden, sold Feb. 12, for $507,500. Built in 2018, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,688 square feet of living area. Days on market: 89.
HICKORY HAMMOCK
The home at 15851 Turkey Island Circle, Winter Garden, sold Feb. 12, for $2,700,000. Built in 2017, it has five bedrooms, four-and-onehalf baths and 5,602 square feet of living area. Days on market: 20.
LAKEVIEW RESERVE
The home at 111 Lakeview Reserve Blvd., Winter Garden, sold Feb. 13, for $646,000. Built in 2002, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,882 square feet of living area. Days on market: 35.
The home at 13125 Casabella Drive, Winter Garden, sold
sellers were represented by Eduardo Pavone, On Me Really.
represented by Jay Martin, Corcoran Premier Realty.
Relaying hope
Relay for Life of Lake Buena Vista is celebrating its 20th anniversary Saturday, March 28, raising funds for the American Cancer Society with its annual walk and celebration.
JUSTICE COVERT CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Yamile Rivera remembers when her mother was diagnosed with stage four mantle cell lymphoma in 2008. She said the doctors gave her six months to live.
Rivera has been a volunteer with the American Cancer Society for the past 30 years and said she had not known anyone with cancer before she started. Learning of her mom’s diagnosis, she knew the resources ACS provided and immediately called its 1-800 helpline to learn what to do.
She said thanks to the ACS and a cell transplant in 2009 at the Moffitt Cancer Center Tampa, her mother lived another 10 years.
Her mother’s cancer journey has motivated Rivera to serve as a coleader of Relay for Life of Lake Buena Vista since 2012 to raise money for the American Cancer Society.
“I got to live a full life with my mom, treated her to many cruises and wonderful things,” Rivera said. “She became a survivor at the relay and had her own team, Virginia’s Angels. I still go to (the relay to) memorialize her and everything she did and to give back to the American Cancer Society. I feel like I owe them for those 10 wonderful years I had with mom.”
Rivera will continue to honor her mom at the annual walk, which is set to celebrate its 20th anniversary from 2 to 10 p.m. Saturday, March 28, near the District Fire Department Station No. 4 at 1920 E. Buena Vista Drive.
Rivera also said her husband who is a prostate cancer survivor and her brother who currently is battling stage four colorectal cancer give her more reasons to make the event happen.
The relay kicks off with a celebration of the cancer survivors in attendance, holding what the organizers call a “survivor lap.” Survivors also have the chance to wear purple sashes and survivor medals, provided by event staff, while they walk.
Rivera said about 30 teams have registered this year with between 10 and 20 members signed up for each team, which include families and local businesses. She added that each team has a “spirit wand” handed off between team members during laps throughout the entire event, as a symbol of the cancer journey.
Teams sponsor the laps, which are named after characters and details from the “Wizard of Oz” franchise. The leadership voted on the theme from a pool of the participants’ suggestions. Lap names include “Over the Rainbow” at 4:45 p.m., “Fly Monkeys Fly” at 5:45 p.m. and “Glinda’s Bubble Lap” at 6:45 p.m. In between laps, dance performances from the Orlando Cloggers and the
Performer’s Edge Dance Center will be held on the event’s stage. Musical artist Kit Citrine also is scheduled to perform at 5:15 p.m.
The money raised at the event goes directly to supporting the ACS, Rivera said, including the helpline Rivera used to aid her mom. The 24/7 hotline has agents who speak 13 languages and offer support from financial assistance to referrals and second opinions.
The highlight of the night, Rivera said, is the luminaria light-up scheduled at 9 p.m. Attendees can buy lanterns, which they can customize, in person or ahead of time on the event’s website. Rivera said luminarias can be bought in memory of someone who lost a cancer battle, someone who currently is fighting or a caregiver.
At the end of the evening, the lights will go down, and luminarias will be staged around the track while attendees walk a silent lap after a slideshow memorial presentation. The night will come to a close with fireworks and the first lap in honor of next year’s event.
The relay has raised nearly $40,000, halfway to its $80,000 goal to help fund research and the road to recovery.
Rivera said she and her team will start setting up around the track at 8 a.m. Beyond fundraising, she said the most important goal after the 14-hour day is to have inspired hope.
“Medicine’s great, research is great, doctors are wonderful,” Rivera said.
“But the support you get from walking around the track and knowing that you’re not alone, that there’s people here that are fighting for you and are there for you and are supporting you. Our survivors leave there on cloud nine.”
IF YOU GO
RELAY FOR LIFE OF LAKE BUENA VISTA
WHEN: 2 to 10 p.m. Saturday, March 28
WHERE: The District Firehouse Station No. 4, 1920 E. Buena Vista Drive, Orlando
DETAILS: Locals impacted by cancer will come together to celebrate survivors and caregivers, remember lost loved ones and raise funds to fight against the disease.
MORE INFORMATION: bit.ly/3NIIZMB
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
Courtesy photo
Yamile Rivera walks at Relay for Life of Lake Buena Vista in honor of her mother.
West Orange Chamber of Commerce Celebrates Business
West Orange Chamber of Commerce celebrates the grand opening of Pokemoto Dr. Phillips-Orlando
The West Orange Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors celebrated the grand opening of Pokemoto Dr. Phillips Orlando. Located at 8685 Fenton St Ste 160 in the Dr. Phillips part of Orlando, Pokemoto is a fast-casual Hawaiian-inspired eatery serving fresh, customizable poke bowls, sushi burritos and refreshing beverages. Known for quality ingredients, bold flavors and quick, friendly service, Pokemoto offers a modern, healthy dining option for busy professionals and families. To learn more, visit https://pokemoto.com.
West Orange Chamber of Commerce celebrates the grand opening of Outback Steakhouse Winter Garden
The West Orange Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors celebrated the grand opening of Outback Steakhouse Winter Garden. Located at 16323 New Independence Pkwy in the Horizon West part of unincorporated Winter Garden, Outback Steakhouse is an Australian-inspired steakhouse where mates gather, stories are exchanged, and steakhouse favorites flow as freely as the conversation. Serve it up with a dash of Aussie hospitality, and you’ve got all the makings of a great experience you’ll want to share with your friends, time and time again. They’re known for high quality, juicy steaks with your choice of big cuts and bold flavor, cooked just the way you like it. Outback Steakhouse, the home of juicy steaks, spirited drinks and Aussie hospitality. To learn more, visit https://locations.outback.com/ florida/winter-garden/16323-new-independence-parkway.
The West Orange Chamber recognizes and applauds our long-standing member businesses for their continued commitment to Advancing Community, Collaboration and Leadership. Congratulations on Membership Milestones to
West Orange Chamber of Commerce celebrates the grand opening of VyStar Credit Union Hamlin
The West Orange Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors celebrated the grand opening of VyStar Credit Union Hamlin. Located at 5026 Hamlin Groves Trl in the Horizon West part of unincorporated Winter Garden, VyStar Credit Union is excited to announce the opening of their new Hamlin branch! This marks their second branch in Winter Garden and their fifth branch in Orange County, reflecting their continued growth and commitment to communities they serve. As they grow, their goal remains the same: to help you grow financially and personally. Stop by, meet the team and see how VyStar can support your goals in the new year and beyond. We can’t wait to welcome you! To learn more, visit https://vystarcu.org.
THE WEST ORANGE CHAMBER OFFERS 4 NETWORKING GROUPS
TUESDAY, WEDNESDAY, THURSDAY - DR. PHILLIPS AND THURSDAY - HORIZON WEST
To learn more and to register for participation visit wochamber.com/ChamberGroups or call 407-656-1304
Outdoor kitchens help complete Florida lifestyle
ABOUT VIEWPOINT DESIGN AND INSTALLATION
John and Melissa Ried opened
Viewpoint Design and Installation in 2021, bringing decades of experience in the Interior Furnishings industry to Winter Garden.
Viewpoint seeks to offer homeowners a better option between the chaos of a big-box DIY store or paying a premium to hire a high-end custom design firm.
Instead, Viewpoint focuses on value — combining the benefits of a custom design and installation experience for each and every client — no matter their budget.
Through Viewpoint’s Concierge
Complete service, customers can expect stellar customer service and expertise throughout their entire project. Furthermore, every customer has access to his or her project via Viewpoint’s project management software, including scheduling, daily logs from each days worth of work, photos and intra-messaging — all at your fingertips 24/7.
And, no project is too big or too small for Viewpoint. For a free in-home consultation, visit chooseviewpoint.com.
Following the unusually chilly start to 2026, it seems the weather has remembered that it’s Central Florida, and temperatures below the 50s have no business here. And after the time change, our daylight hours will be steadily stretching later into the evening, giving Floridians those perfect evenings we know and love. The majority of homes in West Orange feature some sort of
outdoor living space. It could be elaborate as a screened-in lanai and pool deck or as simple as a concrete pad on the back of the house. But no matter the space, an outdoor kitchen could turn it into your favorite part of your property. And luckily for West Orange residents, Winter Garden-based Viewpoint Design and Installation is ready and able to help you create the perfect outdoor kitchen — from concept through competition — for your space.
“Outdoor kitchens have typically been a ‘want,’ but it’s become more of a ‘need,’” Viewpoint Design and Installation owner John Ried said.
“Many people want to enjoy the Florida life by the pool at their own home. A well done and functional outdoor kitchen adds to enjoyment of your home. It’s an extension of living space.”
MADE FOR FLORIDA
With its (mostly) mild winters and plenty of sunshine, Florida is the
perfect place for outdoor kitchens.
Cooking outside also means giving your air conditioner a break in the long, hot days of summer. Because you’ll be cooking outside, you’ll be keeping your house cooler — and saving on energy costs.
What’s more, most of us have been through a hurricane or two. And we know that even if we’re not in the cone, it’s highly likely that our power will go out as the storm passes. A functioning outdoor kitchen means hot meals even in times when you have no electricity.
THE OUTDOOR LIVING ROOM
Beyond the practical advantages of an outdoor kitchen, making a gathering space on your property means creating a new place for life to happen.
If you’re starting with a blank slate, Ried said a privacy wall will be key in creating the space.
“By privacy, I mean an independent wall that obstructs the view of your neighbor, while independent
VIEWPOINT DESIGN AND INSTALLATION
WEBSITE: chooseviewpoint.com
OFFICE ADDRESS: 1200 E. Plant St. Suite 160, Winter Garden
PHONE: (407) 917-1594
EMAIL: info@chooseviewpoint.com
meaning it’s not a shared wall with another room in the house,” he said. “That part is key considering the adding of a gas line and/ or plumbing line will be added inside that wall. Having an electrical outlet will be needed as well for (an) under-counter fridge and/or grill, as well as for code purposes, depending on the municipality’s requirements. The other key component and one that is often overlooked is where to place the hood vent and duct work.”
Outdoor cooking appliances have gone far beyond the tried-andtrue Weber kettle grill. In addition to built-in grills, customers can choose practically any cooking gadget they can imagine. Flat-top griddles can help you cultivate your inner hibachi chef, make enough pancakes to feed a platoon or get that perfect Maillard reaction on a smash burger. Gas-powered pizza ovens will help you achieve that crispy-yet-chewy pizza crust. And outdoor high-powered wok stations could have you considering opening your own Chinese takeout restaurant.
And we can’t forget about the beverages. Outdoor-rated refrigerators, wine coolers or kegerators could help you run your own bar right in your backyard.
What’s more, smart technology such as Wi-Fi-enabled grills, appcontrolled lighting and integrated sound systems allow you to manage everything from your phone.
Of course, if you’re cooking all of this restaurant-quality food, you’ll want a space in which to dine.
Outdoor dining sets and seating areas complete the transformation. Pergolas, ceiling fans, misting fans, fireplaces and fire pits all add ambiance to the outdoors and help keep you comfortable in hot or
cooler weather.
And entertainment options such as TVs, outdoor audio and lighting can make watching the big game an actual event your friends and family will remember.
Although projects will vary wildly depending on the size and scope, Ried said Viewpoint’s average outdoor project takes less time than you might think.
“Timeline from construction start can vary depending on the full scope of the project and if gas, plumbing and electrical lines have already been run or need to be added,” he said. “That said, our average outdoor project runs approximately three to four weeks, not including permitting days. (We can’t control the pace of the municipality and how quickly they turn around the permit.)”
And as far as cost, Ried said an average outdoor kitchen project could range from $15,000 to $20,000. However, that number depends on the client’s selected products and scope of work.
VALUE ADD
Outdoor kitchens no longer are a luxury reserved for sprawling estates. They’re a common feature in homes of all sizes, and with Viewpoint Design and Installation’s expert team, you can create the perfect outdoor kitchen for your space and budget. Furthermore, they add real value to your property. Sure, the addition will add thousands to your home value, but also, it will give you and your family an entirely new way and place to enjoy life together. It will encourage you to spend more time outside, bring people together and make an ordinary meal feel like an occasion.
State Farm Bloomington, IL
Downtown Winter Garden business changes will affect nearby residents
RE/MAX real-estate adviser Carmelo Nuccio has built his business on intimate knowledge of Winter Garden.
CARMELO NUCCIO
OFFICE ADDRESS: 2630 Edgewater Drive, Orlando
PHONE: (321) 441-6951
FACEBOOK: @CarmeloNuccioRealtor
INSTAGRAM: @carmelonuccio
There’s a little bit of heartbreak when RE/MAX real-estate adviser Carmelo Nuccio talks of downtown Winter Garden. Like many, Nuccio is watching the rapid changes in businesses and building ownership with marked trepidation.
But his concerns are bigger than losing his favorite lunch spot on Plant Street. As the downtown retail district evolves, he believes that will have a lasting effect on the area’s residential real-estate market, as well.
Nuccio said he suspects the changes to Plant Street ultimately will result in a more upscale district — akin to Winter Park’s Park Avenue. With that, real-estate values will increase, as well as the interest in living in downtown Winter Garden.
And while all of that sounds great on the surface, Nuccio worries it could threaten the fabric that makes downtown Winter Garden so special. Higher property values mean higher property taxes. For some who have called downtown Winter Garden home for decades, those higher taxes could make their homes unaffordable.
“The people (who) have been living here for the past 30 years … used to be our teachers, nurses,” he said. “They have a small house. They are senior citizens. They’re on a fixed income. … (This is) going to push this individual to go far away from where they are.
“Everyone was upset about Three Birds Cafe, and they were upset about this door closing or this door closing,” Nuccio said. “But really, the fabric of downtown, if you lose these people who have been here since the 50s … you’re losing the very essence of what downtown America was.”
Furthermore, the spike in home prices will make it all but impossible for first-time homebuyers to purchase
in downtown Winter Garden. Nuccio said recently, he is advising his clients to take a look at communities to the north, such as Sorrento, which can be achievable for younger families.
“It’s actually making it harder for a true American or locals to try to buy their first home,” he said. “When you start building equity, then you can build more on top of that. But if you can’t ever get there, you can never (begin). Our American dream is being taken by corporations because they are raising the bar so much.”
And for families who had planned to leave their downtown Winter Garden homes to their children, that spike in property taxes might make the monthly payment unaffordable. In that case, those homeowners might not have any other choice but to sell.
What’s more, as Florida continues to attract businesses from all over the country, the demand for residential real estate will remain high.
“It’s become so beautiful; everybody is moving,” Nuccio said. “You know how many headquarters are moving to Miami from LA and New York? They’re all moving to Florida somehow, some way.”
With nearly three decades of experience in Winter Garden, Nuccio knows these changes are the signal of a new cycle for the downtown district. He remembers when the district evolved into what it is today.
“(I) saw it resurrected and come to be what it is now,” he said. “I (had) the pleasure to be a part, a little bit of what the design was. … It’s beautiful. But, there’s going to be changes, and what people don’t like is change. (But) it’s inevitable.
“We live in paradise — one no one knew about,” Nuccio said. “And now people know about it. So what do you think is going to happen? It is sad, but it is reality. What you can do is just try
Interest rates fall below 6%, bolster action in local market
The Orlando Regional Realtor Association’s February State of the Market report showed some encouraging signs for Central Florida.
With a 15.5% increase in closed sales compared to January 2026 and a whopping 17.8% increase in monthly sales volume, the Orlando Regional Realtor Association reported positive shifts in the local real-estate market.
Spurred by a 5.9% interest rate — the first sub-6% rate since September 2024 — the market showed a 15.5% increase in closed sales — 1,634 to 1,888 — month over month. ORRA also reported a 13.8% increase in pending sales from 3,515 to 4,001.
“After several years of elevated borrowing costs, seeing interest rates dip into the 5%- range again is an encouraging signal for buyers,” 2026 ORRA President Chris Atwell said. “When you combine lower rates with homes spending more time on the market, buyers have more leverage than they’ve had in years. This environment fosters
opportunities to negotiate on price, request seller-paid closing costs, and ultimately find the right home at a pace and structure that gives buyers confidence in their decision. Conversely, a downward trajectory of mortgage rates likely will bring more buyers activating into the market as housing becomes more attainable. Increased demand with similar supply eventually shifts the advantage back to the sellers.”
The average home price rose slightly — from $461,813 in January to $470,729 in February — as did the median home price — from $370,000 to $375,000. Year-over-year, homes still are remaining on the market longer. The average days on market in February 2025 was 76, compared to 83 in February 2026. Similarly, the average days to sale was 115, compared to 109 in February 2025.
3. SHOREFRONT COVE
1. GOLDEN OAK
The home at 10151 Enchanted Oak Drive, Golden Oak, sold March 9, for $14,000,000. Built in 2019, it has seven bedrooms, seven-andtwo-half baths and 10,740 square feet of living area. Days on market: 123.
2. KEENE’S POINTE
The home at 9733 Carillon Park Drive, Windermere, sold March 12, for $5,000,000. Built in 2014, it has five bedrooms, six-and-onehalf baths and 7,600 square feet of living area.
The home at 14182 Larkspur Lake Drive, Winter Garden, sold March 12, for $3,150,000. Built in 2025, it has six bedrooms, six-and-twohalf baths and 6,442 square feet of living area.
4. ISLEWORTH
The home at 6186 Louise Cove Drive, Windermere, sold March 19, for $2,900,000. Built in 2002, it has four bedrooms, five-and-onehalf baths and 4,849 square feet of living area.
5. WATERFORD POINTE
The home at 12923 Water Point Blvd. Windermere, sold March 17, for $2,500,000. Built in 2005, it has five bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths and 2,005 square feet of living area. Days on market: 135.
6.TWINWATERS
The home at 16689 Broadwater Ave., Winter Garden, sold March 6, for $2,175,000. Built in 2016, it has seven bedrooms, six-and-onehalf baths and 5,283 square feet of living area. Days on market: 75.
6. SAWYER SHORES
The home at 6564 Lagoon St., Windermere, sold March 6, for $1,830,000. Built in 2025, it has five bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths and 3,685 square feet of living area. Days on market: 353.
8. ORANGE GROVE
The home at 9 E. Newell St., Winter Garden, sold March 12, for $1,650,000. Built in 2025, it has four bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths and 3,686 square feet of living area.
9. SOUTH BAY
The home at 9120 South Bay Drive, Orlando, sold March 6, for $1,457,000. Built in 1994, it has five bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths and 4,519 square feet of living area. Days on market: Three.
get
10. BRENTWOOD CLUB The home at 9672 Camberley Circle, Orlando, sold March 19, for $1,391,000. Built in 1993, it has five bedrooms, four baths and 4,456 square feet of living area. Days on market: 11. For more information about the local real-estate market, visit orlandorealtors.org. Source: Orlando Regional Realtor Association
it done
SPORTS
HIGH 5
1Windermere High boys basketball program only has known one name at the helm of its coaching staff since beginning in 2017: Mark Griseck. After nine seasons as the head coach of the Wolverines, Griseck announced he officially is stepping down from the post. He turned a brandnew team into a Central Florida powerhouse. The Wolverines had two Final Four appearances, the most recent came in 2024-2025, and eight straight state playoff appearances. In the past season, the team finished 15-14 and fell in the regional semifinals 46-40 to Oak Ridge.
“(I) have been blessed at every stop along the way, but to build a program from scratch with my son Trey by my side has truly been the highlight of my career,” Griseck wrote in his announcement. “We exceeded even our own expectations.” Griseck not only is well known at Windermere but he also has built a name for himself in the basketball community, working as a head coach for 24 years and 36 years overall coaching.
2
Ocoee High’s track-andfield athlete Hervins Chervil broke a school record with his jump of 6.88-meters at the Kowboy Invitational Saturday, March 14. The junior specializes in long jump and relays, and Chervil’s time earned him a third-place finish at the invitational. Chervil celebrated another career personal record Wednesday, March 11. He ran the 200-meter in 22.53 to earn a fifth-place finish in the Mustang Relays.
3
Foundation Academy’s baseball team’s outfielder Charlie Capozzoli has committed to Eckerd College. The senior has produced a .304 batting average with 17 hits, 15 runs batted in and a .957 fielding percentage. Capozzoli has played on Foundation’s varsity team for four years.
The Lions currently are sitting at a 10-7 record this season and lost its game Thursday, March 19, against DME Academy 7-4. Foundation hosted Horizon High, which was 10-5-1, at 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 24. The results weren’t available at time of publication.
4
The Florida High School 7v7 Association announced the 2026 FHS7v7A State Championship for Class 1A to 3A and Class 4A to 6A will take place Saturday, April 25. Teams are guaranteed to play four games minimum and it is $450 per team. Each team must be a member of FHS7v7A. Team check in will begin at 8:30 a.m., following a coaches meeting at 9:40 a.m., pool play from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and single elimination 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. The lineman challenge will begin at 10 a.m. and conclude at 2 p.m.
5
Dr. Phillips High’s football team is hosting a parent and community meeting in the South Campus Cafeteria at 6 p.m. Thursday, April 9, in preparation of the upcoming season. The team also is beginning its spring workouts at 2:45 p.m. Monday, Tuesday and Thursday. Dr. Phillips will play its Kickoff Classic game against Boone High Friday, Aug. 14, and the team’s first regular season game is at The First Academy Friday, Aug. 21.
Two stories, one track
Foundation Academy’s top track runners Noah McMullen and Lee Peters had different pathways into the sport, but through the same training plan, they have generated success their senior year.
MEGAN BRUINSMA STAFF WRITER
Finding success never is a straight pathway.
Foundation Academy’s top track-and-field athletes, Lee Peters and Noah McMullen, understand how to navigate the path to find their true calling. McMullen’s plan never was to pick up track, and for Peters it always was there, but it was waiting for her to grab the reins and take it seriously.
As juniors, McMullen and Peters began to find their stride. McMullen’s coach encouraged him to join track, while Peters’ dad encouraged her to take her craft seriously.
Now as seniors, they’ve both dedicated themselves to the physical demand track requires and are dominating from the first block. Although they came from different backgrounds, their journeys now runs sideby-side and they have become Foundation’s top boys and girls track-and-field athletes.
Reaching for a high bar
Gymnastics USA is sending the most boys to regionals in its history, thanks to some lessons that have nothing to do with gymnastics.
JUSTICE COVERT CONTRIBUTING WRITER
When Nick Kosteski enters the gym to coach the boys’ competitive teams at Gymnastics USA in Winter Garden, he makes his way across a sea of mats and equipment. He is first flagged down, though, by nearby 5- and 6-yearold gymnasts who stop what they’re doing for just one thing: to shake his hand.
It’s one of the first lessons the boys are taught at the gym, Kosteski said, making sure they know how to stand up straight, provide a firm handshake and show respect before they ever learn about gymnastics.
“Just from the beginning, we really teach the values of hard work first,” he said. “We do the same things as every other club. We do the same push-ups, the same sit-ups, the same pull-ups.
But we really try to instill at a really young age how important it is to, when you’re doing it, to actually do it right. And that’s really hard to teach a 5-year-old.”
Gymnastics USA trains teams from level 3, a beginner stage comprising mostly of 7-year-olds, to level 10, the highest level featuring high schoolers.
Most recently, the boys competed in the Florida State Championship Friday, March 6, to Sunday, March 8, in Ocala. Out of the gym’s 33 boys of all levels who competed, 31 qualified for the regional championship to be held from Friday, March 27, to Sunday, March 29, in Atlanta. Meanwhile, the level 4 and level 5 teams finished first in the state, and more than 25 boys won individual state titles.
Gym owner Zander Arthur said the 31 boys are the most the club has ever sent to regionals, a culmination
CHANGING POINT
McMullen had his sights set on football. The wide receiver was dedicated to his craft and didn’t think to pick up another passion.
But everything changed last year when one of his coaches planted the seed to begin track. Lifting weights only can do so much. Yes, it was making him stronger, but his speed remained the same.
The seed was planted in McMullen’s mind and a year ago he joined Foundations’s trackand-field team, where he found a new passion.
While he was finding his footing in track, Peters was discovering how to improve. She had started soccer in second grade and track in third. The two sports always have been important to her and she continued playing them together throughout the years, becoming faster than her older competitors.
“I’ve always known the gift that God gave me was track,” Peters said. “I knew ever since I was younger and I got to the races, I remember my first time racing and one of my dad’s
West Orange Girls Club’s Leighton Bennett celebrated hitting two home runs at only 7 years old and will continue to grow as a player. Page 16A.
Gymnastics USA boys level 4 team celebrating finishing first in the state.
Courtesy Photo
Photo by Megan Bruinsma
Noah McMullen and Lee Peters had different pathways into Foundation Academy’s track team, but through dedication and training, they have found success for themselves from the first go.
Leighton Bennett
West Orange Girls Club’s Leighton Bennett already is showing she has a bright future ahead of her in her softball career. The 7-year-old, who plays on the WOGC 8U Tailgaters, recorded two home runs and helped lead her team to the 15-7 win over the Sorrento team Monday, March 16.
“It truly felt like a moment where her consistent hard work came full circle,” her mom Jessica Bennett said about her two home runs. “She is always putting in extra time at home, focused on improving her hitting and striving to be better in the field. Even during the off-season, she wanted to do additional training at D1 Training to build strength and speed to enhance her performance for softball.”
Leighton Bennett has been playing softball for only two years, but ever since she advanced to the 8U level, she has shown incredible growth. Bennett has grown in her softball IQ, such as learning where to place the ball, and has become able to adapt to different positions on the field, Jessica Bennett said.
Her development has come from the West Orange Girls Club’s dedication to teaching young softball players how to tackle the game. The coaches invest their time and energy into all of the girls, which has created skill development as well as love for the sport. Jessica Bennett said the club has helped Leighton to want to continue with softball and work hard to become the best player she can be.
What do you enjoy most about softball? Being part of a team.
When did you start softball and why did you join? At 5 years old because I wanted to try something new.
What’s your biggest accomplishment in
THE BASICS
quickly in and trust your team.
How would you describe yourself as a teammate? Helpful.
What advice would you give someone who just joined softball?
I would tell them, “You can do this.”
If you were a coach, what speech would you give the team?
It doesn’t matter if we win or lose, just play with your heart.
What’s your pre-game ritual?
I always make sure I have a ball in my glove in my bat bag the night before for good luck.
If you could pick a different sport what would it be? Why? Volleyball because I like to jump.
Who do you look up to the most?
My teammate Isabella because she hits good and plays smart.
What’s something new you’d like to learn? Pitching.
Where would you want to live if you weren’t in Florida?
Wisconsin because I love snow.
If you won the lottery what would you do with the money? I’d donate it to charities.
What’s your favorite holiday? Why?
Thanksgiving because I get to spend time with family.
What future career do you
If you became famous, what would it be for?
If you had to pick a spirit animal, which would you Honey badger because they’re fast and don’t give
What’s your perfect day? Paint rocks with my family, volunteer at the pound, adopt a dog and eat a really good steak dinner.
Would you rather only eat fruit or vegetables? Why?
Fruit because a lot of them are sweet.
— MEGAN BRUINSMA
FA runners on track for successful season
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15A
friends said, ‘Is that your daughter? She’s super fast.’”
She was a 10-year-old who was beating 13-year-olds and she continued to improve. But the young star began to pull back from the track scene due to her age. Peters was young and didn’t know if track was truly going to be for her or if it would be a hobby.
“I kind of stopped training yearround,” Peters said. “I was just doing the season, not really committing outside of that. I still made states, still medaled, but I wasn’t at that next level.”
It changed during her junior year. Her dad asked, “Do you want to take this seriously?” Peters thought for a moment, then said, “Let’s do it,” and jumped on board.
What followed was her finding a new level of commitment to track, unlike anything she had ever done before. She went to her coaches Tyson Gay and Tisifenne Taylor for help making her goal a reality.
Peters began training two months before the season with sprints and distance running to prepare her body, unknowing of the outcome. In her first race back, she recorded a PR.
At that moment, she realized the work was paying off and she needed to keep working at it. McMullen, too, realized his track efforts drastically improved his speed in football.
“It translated a lot,” he said. “The year before I wasn’t moving like I was last year. But then I saw a drastic change. If I had a go ball, which is when you run straight and the quarterback will throw it to you to try and get a touchdown, I was beating whoever was guarding me pretty much every time. It wasn’t even really a competition because I would just run right by them.”
THEIR STRIDE
FINDING
McMullen and Peters said their improvements never would have been possible without their two coaches, Gay, a former Olympian, and Taylor, who has coached Peters for five years.
Peters credited her coaches to help her believe in herself and push her to work harder than she ever thought she would be able to. She learned how dedication and consistency create real results and the importance of maintaining a posi-
tive attitude when she’s out on the track.
Their training plan consists of many early mornings and afternoon practices, but it never is a struggle.
McMullen said Gay paces the runners through everything, he has a plan of when to do speed work and timeliness when closing out practices to ensure their bodies aren’t extra fatigued.
Since meets typically are on Fridays, Peters said the team is speed training four to five times per week and lifting twice per week. They lift Tuesdays and Sundays, which gives the team enough weight room time for their muscles to have power and make them faster, but also they aren’t too sore when running. In April, they will cut the weight training to prevent the extra fatigue and “heaviness” their body feels.
“I honestly didn’t know how fast I could be,” McMullen said. “I knew I had more speed than most other kids, but (Taylor) would yell at me a bit or get on me about doing the little things right because she’d say, ‘You’re a lot better than that.’”
She helped fix his starting-off technique, and before McMullen knew it, he was dropping his time at every meet.
He recorded his first first-place finish in the 4x100 with a time of 44.71 seconds at the Foundation Invitational Friday, Feb. 27. Then he followed up with a new PR and
his second first-place finish in the 100-meter dash with a time of 11.06 seconds at the Mount Dora Christian Academy Meet 1 Thursday, March 12. McMullen shaved a second off his time in the 100-meter dash this year compared to last, and he’s using his results and production to help him retrieve a track scholarship for college.
Peters already has committed to the University of Tennessee and won the state title last year in the 100-meter dash, as well as second place in the 200-meter dash. But she already has seen further improvements in her senior year. She recorded a PR in the 60-meter dash with a time of 7.33 seconds at the Florida High School Indoor State Championships Saturday, Feb. 7. She then recorded a PR in the 100-meter with her time of 11.35 seconds at the 2026 Bob Hayes High School Invite Saturday, March 21. Both of their plans are to continue staying consistent with their training plans to produce a state medal this year. McMullen said last season he jumped the gun, which disqualified him, and this time around, he is much more prepared with his reaction time to ensure the same outcome doesn’t come to fruition. Through the journey, all of Foundation’s track-and-field team will continue to push each other and support their teammates.
Gymnastics USA heads to regionals
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15A
of a goal he and Kosteski set out to achieve since he returned to coach in 2020.
Upon joining the program, lowerlevel competitors like Arthur’s son typically start on the developmental team and train there for about a year. Each time they advance a level, the routines and events become a little more difficult. The youngest athletes train about nine hours per week, while the more experienced ones log up to 20 hours.
It’s that time commitment and accountability that have produced the recent successes, Arthur said, holding the young gymnasts to high standards.
“Every turn they take, there’s accountability with it,” Arthur said. “Every single turn they take, there’s a benefit or there’s a consequence. The benefit might be they get to move on to something else if they do a good job. The consequence is that they have to do more, or they have to do additional exercises.”
Arthur said that type of training — four hours per day, five days per
week for the gymnast’s entire childhood — is what produces elite-level athletes, setting them apart from the 29 other clubs in the state.
During this time, Kosteski said one of the most common mistakes young athletes make is thinking just showing up is good enough to excel.
“Gymnastics is such a hard sport,” Kosteski said. “A lot of kids think they could just come in and go through the workout, go through the motions and think that they can improve just because they’re here for a very long time. But if they’re not focused and if they’re not thinking about the skills they’re doing every time they get on the equipment, then it’s really hard to make improvements.”
Each level competes in all the events — including floor, pommel horse, rings, vault, parallel bars and high bar — practicing most, if not all of them, every day they’re in the gym after warming up, stretching and conditioning.
From levels 3 to 7, competition scoring is capped at 10, meaning if a gymnasts don’t commit a single mistake, they receive a perfect 10,
but every error costs them a tenth of a point.
When the gymnasts are young, Kosteski said, it’s all about who is the cleanest, whose legs can be the straightest and whose toes can be the most pointed. But for the older levels, from 8 to 10, scoring isn’t capped, so there is more room to earn points for completing higherlevel skills, but the judgment can be harsher.
During the state championship, Kosteski said the boys’ success came from limiting mistakes and not failing skills they normally practice.
“They work really, really hard every day,” he said. “It’s not about what they did at the competition. It’s about what they do in the 20 hours a week that they’re here. So they were just very focused, especially in the week leading up to the competition, very focused on eliminating those silly mistakes that take you from like a 9.5 to a 9.4.”
Kosteski said many kids get nervous during competitions, which makes them tense. It’s especially clear, he said, when they swing on the pommel horse, the event that requires the gymnast to twist and swing their body around, only using the upper body. The nerves cause the competitor to tighten up and fail.
The boys, though, performed the way they practiced, Kosteski said, and eliminated any “silly mistakes.”
Noah McMullen and Lee Peters are reching for states.
Photo by Megan Bruinsma
Matthew’s Hope is back on the green
such as Giving on the Green to help support the nonprofit’s mission to support the mental and physical aspects of the life of a person experiencing homelessness.
The nonprofit is hosting its seventh annual Giving on the Green Golf Tournament to create a fun and informational day for the West Orange community.
MEGAN BRUINSMA
STAFF WRITER
Golfers gather at the tee and rather than adorning their typical golf attire of shorts and a polo, they put on a tutu and a princess hat.
Matthew’s Hope’s Venue and Events Director, Courtney Woolbright, is in prime position to watch the activities of the Princess Hole. Every year it is her favorite challenge for the serious golfers participating in Matthew’s Hope’s Giving on the Green Golf Tournament.
The tournament is designed to be a fun and interactive experience for the participants, while also teaching them about Matthew’s Hope, founder and CEO Scott Billue said. This year brings the seventh annual tournament to the greens of the West Orange Country Club Monday, March 30.
“Every year I have people come tell us that this is the most fun that they have had at any of the golf outings they go to,” Billue said.
The tournament slowly has been building its way back to the preCOVID-19 times as sponsors and support from the community have been growing in the six years since. Holes are decorated with different challenges, such as the Princess Hole and one with a grenade launcher. It’s designed to create a welcoming atmosphere for competitive golfers who are trying to win the trophy, and the leisurely golfers who desire a good afternoon on the green.
“It’s a fundraiser,” Billue said. “Yes, we want to have fun and we want to bring attention to what we do and why we do it and how we do it, but the reality of doing it is to raise funds for the mission of Matthew’s Hope.”
Woolbright said the nonprofit recently has had people come to events who didn’t know anything about it, they were only told events were fun. After learning about Matthew’s Hope, they’ve become some of its biggest supporters.
“They come for a good time because a friend said, ‘Hey, this is a lot of fun. We’re going to take a Monday off from work,’” Billue said. “And then they were exposed to something that was out there, but they never really grasped what it meant to them and what was being done about it.”
The seventh edition of Giving on the Green is bringing a new addition to its course and teaching about Matthew’s Hope with the launch of its app.
Billue said the app has been a thought for more than a year now and the nonprofit pulled the trigger on building and designing it six months ago. It will be announced at the tournament, and the people who
are there will be the first utilize it.
The app is designed to serve multiple audiences, from donors and sponsors to staff and individuals experiencing homelessness. Everything the nonprofit does on its website will be on the app.
Matthew’s Hope also is celebrating its 16th anniversary in March.
Billue said the anniversary combined with the golf tournament and the launch of the buses has made March an exciting month.
“There’s so much that’s going on that people are going to be able to go back to this app and literally find pretty much anything,” he said. “If it’s not there, it’s probably because we didn’t think of it yet.”
Through the app, they’re building a way for their guests who experience homelessness to sign in and make a reservation to spend the night on the sleeper bus, and the guests of the golf tournament will be able to quickly and easily find their event photos.
It also will help further spread the word about the nonprofit’s mission.
“The one thing I tell people all the time, when you see a homeless person, instead of judging, just stop for a minute and ask yourself, ‘What could have taken place in that person’s life to make living like that acceptable?’”
Billue said. “Thats what I try to do every time I see someone experiencing something because…I’ve never met anybody who made a conscious choice to become homeless.”
The key part of Matthew’s Hope’s work is to challenge the stereotypes about homelessness. Many people who are experiencing homelessness have faced significant trauma, including illness, loss or abuse. Efforts such as the Matthew’s Hope tournament will raise funds to support eliminating the stigma and stereotypes.
IF YOU GO
MATTHEW’S HOPE’S GIVING ON THE GREEN GOLF TOURNAMENT
WHEN: 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Monday, March 30
WHERE: West Orange Country Club, 3300 W. Orange Country Country Club Drive
COST: $50 for the Clubhouse Companion, which includes a spouse, guest cocktail hour and awards ticket; $150 for Green Jacket Golfer, which is an individual golfer with a complimentary ticket to cocktail hour and the awards ceremony; $500 for Golden Fairway Foursome, which is golf for four players with complimentary tickets to cocktail hour and the awards ceremony. Sponsorship opportunities are available.
TICKETS: tinyurl.com/yc33hc9t
If you cannot attend, Matthew’s Hope greatly appreciates support of its mission through donations.
MORE INFORMATION: matthewshopeministries.harnessgiving.org/events/3545
The Observer will celebrate the area’s public and private high school graduating classes of 2026 with a special section featuring photos of the seniors!
Be a part of saying “Congratulations” and “Good Luck” to our graduates.
SPACE RESERVATION DEADLINE: WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22
DATE OF PUBLICATION: THURSDAY, MAY 14
LET’S CELEBRATE THE CLASS OF 2026
Earning a high school diploma is an accomplishment worth celebrating. That’s precisely why the Observer is creating an extra special Graduation section. In it, we will celebrate seniors at all of our area’s public, private and charter high schools.
Furthermore, we will launch a special spotlight page on OrangeObserver.com to celebrate our seniors with digital content.
SPACE RESERVATION DEADLINE: APRIL 24
DATE
THURSDAY, MAY 14
Courtesy photo
Matthew’s Hope President and Executive Director Shelley Bradford and founder and CEO Scott Billue use fundraisers
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OF THE WEEK
INFLUENCER
AUNDREA KEYSOR WESTBROOKE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Aundrea Keysor is the assistant principal at Westbrooke Elementary School.
Keysor is responsible for student discipline and behavior, administrative management, staff supervision, parent and community engagement, school culture and ESE support.
She also serves as an instructional leader and Multi-Tiered System of Supports coach, coaching teachers, providing feedback through evaluations, aiding in curriculum implementation and analyzing data to improve student outcomes.
“As Ms. Aundrea Keysor completes her third year at Westbrooke Elementary, we celebrate her meaningful contributions to our school community,” Principal Dr. Vidal Reyes said. “Working closely with (me), she has strengthened key partnerships — most notably our relationship with the Westbrooke PTO, helping build a strong, connected and supportive school culture. Ms. Keysor has also collaborated extensively with teachers to maintain academic momentum and ensure high-quality learning across classrooms. Her leadership, guidance and encouragement have been invaluable in supporting instructional excellence.
“A standout achievement of her tenure has been her instrumental role in establishing the ESE Autism units at Westbrooke. Drawing on her deep expertise in Exceptional Student Education, she helped lay a strong foundation for a program that now serves students and families with exceptional care and effectiveness. We are grateful for Ms. Keysor’s dedication, professionalism, and heart for our students.”
What brought you to your school?
I’m thrilled to have spent the past three years at Westbrooke, embracing new challenges and expanding my professional journey. It’s truly exciting to gain diverse experiences in different schools!
What do you love most about your school?
I truly appreciate our wonderful staff and vibrant community! Working in this close-knit school is a blessing, as we wholeheartedly support one another and are passionate about our mission to uplift and empower our students.
What is the most rewarding part of your job?
The most rewarding work centers on our staff, students and the wider community. I believe that the core of my mission is to foster a collaborative environment where each individual feels valued and engaged.
What would you be if you weren’t in this profession?
If I weren’t an assistant principal, I’d likely dive into the world of fashion! I absolutely love curating outfits and witnessing their transformative effect on people. Many who know me can easily see this passion shining through, and I find it truly inspiring!
REPORT CARD
Years at school: Three Years at OCPS: 22
Who influences you?
I come from a long line of educators, so you could say that education is our family business. Both of my parents worked in the field, and my sisters are also involved in education in various capacities, along with other extended family members. The influence of this environment is strong!
Who was your favorite teacher when you were in school? Why?
I absolutely loved my thirdgrade teacher, Ms. Yaworski! She transformed learning into an adventure with her exciting handson projects. I’ll always cherish the memory of winning a kitten in her multiplication facts competition.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
In my free time, I love hanging out with my family, exploring new places and soaking up the sun at the beach!
If you could dine with any famous person, past or present, who would it be and why?
Princess Diana’s life was truly fascinating! I’ve enjoyed reading about her, and I’m genuinely captivated by her remarkable character and the impact she had on the world.
If you could only listen to three bands or artists, who would they be and why?
This is an eclectic mix of music!
Bon Jovi brings an incredible variety of songs, while the Bee Gees let me indulge my yacht rock obsession. Plus, The Eagles create such soothing melodies—an awesome blend that always lifts my spirits!
What fun fact about yourself would surprise people?
As a passionate yogi, I love practicing hot power yoga several times a week! It truly keeps me grounded and empowered. Shout out to Resonance Yoga Studio!
What is your favorite holiday and why?
The Christmas season brings an immense sense of joy to my heart. I have a deep love for the festive decorations, cherished traditions and the meaningful moments shared with family and friends. Our Christmas Eve party brings a special joy when we’re all together, creating a truly magical and memorable time of year filled with warmth and happiness!
What were your extracurricular activities as a student?
I had such a fun time at my small high school in upstate New York, especially as a student athlete! I balanced playing soccer, basketball and running track. I was named to the All-Star teams for both basketball and soccer.
—LIZ RAMOS
Roarin’ good time
Fourth-graders
Dillard Street Elementary School third-grader Sebi Urbanik beamed with pride as he showed other students his 3D creations.
He received a 3D printer for Christmas and immediately started making dragons, lizards, Funko Pops and more. He brought them to class and saw students were interested in them.
When he heard the school was looking for vendors for the annual Dragon Fest Saturday, March 7, he paid his fee and joined the at least nine other vendors.
Families had a blast visiting the vendor booths, playing on the playground, going through the bounce houses and more.
Anthony Stephens, aka Viral the DJ, provided music for the festivities.
LIZ RAMOS
Tinzlee Tolman and Vera Fernandez practiced the handshake they created.
First-grader Sadie Frame sat calmly while her face was painted.
Third-grader Sebi Urbanik beamed with pride selling his 3D-printed creations.
John Serrano, second-grader Jasper Serrano and Gabby Serrano took a break to eat. Jasper Serrano said he loved playing on the monkey bars and in the bouncy houses.
Second-grader Willa Clark never let the hula hoop hit the ground.
Long live the king!
Audience members of Castleview Elementary School’s “Lion King Jr.” said hakuna matata and left all their worries at the door to enjoy an energetic performance Friday, March 6.
More than 70 students performed in the musical.
“Watching them step into these roles — some of them for their first time, some of them for their final elementary school year — they support one another, they grow in confidence, and they bring this story to life, and it’s been nothing short of magical,” Director Nicole Freeman said.
Chase Jordan, who played a snake and Simba, said he’s seen the theater program at the school only become “bigger and better.”
“It’s just been so amazing to see the cast grow each year and to see all the teamwork that goes into it,” Jordan said.
Chandler Jordan, who played young Simba, said it was incredible to see everyone’s hard work paid off.
The cafeteria was packed for the performance that included vibrant costumes, stage lights fitting every mood of each scene, beautifully painted sets and more.
Freeman said everything on
stage from pride rock to the king’s throne to the backdrops was “built, handmade, created from scratch, designed here in this cafeteria.”
All the students gave their all for every song and dance, leaving family and community members beaming with pride and applauding after every scene.
Whether it was on stage or behind the scenes, each student worked hard to make the performance one that resulted in an uproar of thunderous applause at the end.
“This production is so much bigger than what has happened under these lights,” said Bryan Burckle, co-director and choreographer. “It is parents painting sets late into the night. It’s families rearranging schedules, driving to rehearsals, running lines at the dinner table. It’s volunteers who said yes before they even knew how much would be asked of them. It’s emails and texts answered, costumes sewn, props built, pizza delivered and hands always raised when needed. This show is a reflection of something very rare. In a world that can sometimes feel heavy, we have a supportive community here. Thank you.”
— LIZ RAMOS
Above: The Dawson family beamed with pride after watching Madeline Dawson perform as a lioness.
Left: Chase Jordan, who played Simba, looked up at the stars, as Timon and Pumbaa discussed what the bright lights were in the sky.
Max Meibuhr, who played Mufasa, told young Simba, that anything the light touches is their kingdom.
Ryker Jimenez Altavilla perfectly brought Scar’s sarcastic, narcissistic and conniving personality to life on stage.
Fun in the sun
Independence Elementary School students patiently waited their turn to buy snow cones during a sunny day at the school’s third annual Spring Carnival Wednesday, March 11.
With more than 900 attendees, the event was a success.
The school’s Parent-Teacher Organization hosted the third annual event with lots of activities and festivities.
The event not only was a way for the students and their families to have fun but also to raise money to support students and staff.
The carnival featured a variety of inflatables and bounce houses; games such as Connect Four, fish-bowl tossing, giant Tetris and a dunk tank; and face and body paint.
There also was a silent auction, concessions, food trucks and visits from Indy, the Eagle mascot.
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Above: Students had an opportunity to get photos with the school’s mascot, Indy.
Left: Flavia and Maria Triani were excited about the event.
Christian Micheo and Gustavo Oneltech waited in line to get face paintings.
STAR SEARCH by Sean Ziebarth, edited by Jared Goudsmit
Luis Campos
Observer
