04.16.26 Southwest Orange Observer

SOUTHWEST ORANGE

Windermere, Horizon West, Dr. Phillips

Fun springs eternal

The Bloom and Grow Garden Society’s Spring Fever flourishes in W.G. PAGE 3A.

Four Windermere High School seniors are bringing barbershop to the stage at Foundation for Orange County Public Schools’ Top Talent LIVE. STORY ON PAGE 4A.

YOUR TOWN

CHAMBER TO SERVE UP ANNUAL BEST FEST

The West Orange Chamber of Commerce will present one of its biggest events of the year this Thursday.

TREBLE MAKERS FOUNDATION DOMINATES

The 21st annual Best Fest — The Taste of West Orange — takes place from 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday, April 16, at Bill Breeze Park, 125 N. Lakeshore Drive, Ocoee.

Participating restaurants include CC’s Kitchen, Chick-fil-A, Crooked Can Brewing Company, Culver’s, Festa Italiana Pesce’s Bakery Italia, Gochi, Graze Craze, Hawkers, Home State Brewing Company, Kelly’s Homemade Ice Cream, Jersey Mike’s, King of Pops, Lime Fresh, Little Greek Fresh Grill, McDonald’s, Pammie’s Sammies, Peach Cobbler Factory — Ocoee, Pilar’s Martini & Loft, PRP Wine, Puff & Stuff, Southern Steer, Table Top Catering, Texas Roadhouse, The Brave Burger, Uno’s Pizzeria, Westgate Resorts and Windermere Brewing.

General admission is $65 at the gate. Kids 12 and younger are free. For more, visit wochamber.com.

ROPER YMCA TO HOST HEALTHY KIDS DAY

Kids of all ages are invited to the Roper YMCA Family Center as it hosts Healthy Kids Day this weekend.

The free event will take place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, April 18, at the YMCA, 100 Winder mere Road, Winter Garden.

Families can explore active play, nutrition, STEM discovery, creative movement and more — designed to help every child thrive. From toddlers to teens, the safe and welcoming space encourages learning, connection and healthy habits that last all summer.

Participate in a New Worlds Reading Initiative event starting at 11:30 a.m. The initiative helps strengthen literacy for Florida students by equipping families with the tools and support they need to read and grow at home. Kids and parents can enjoy a live storytelling together, learn more about the New Worlds Reading Initiative, and take advantage of complimentary lunch, books and swag bags.

To register, visit ymcacf. org/community/yevents/healthy-kids-day.

AT HOME

Both the boys and girls Lions teams came away with top honors at their own meet. SEE PAGE 11A.

Healthy Beginnings for Moms takes place this weekend. SEE PAGE 3A. RIGHT ON TRACK

Meet the author best known as the ‘Oakland Book Lady.’ SEE PAGE 6A.

Photo by Liz Ramos

Windermere High School seniors Chandler Hall, George Kudmani, Connor Kelly and Andrew Rockefeller are bringing barbershop back to the 21st century during Top Talent LIVE.

5FAST

and experience, the device was identified as a destructive and/or chemical device.

The parking lot, located at 695 W. Plant St., now is open to provide additional parking for visitors.

The lot is open daily from sunrise to sunset, and it has 54 parking spaces, including two designated accessible spaces, as well as an additional three oversized spaces for buses and RVs.

The free parking lot has a “Public Parking” sign on Plant Street to show the lot’s entrance.

2

Winter Garden woman arrested for grand theft

Winter Garden resident

Tarikka Jones was arrested in the early morning of Friday, April 3, after a man flagged down a police officer from the Orlando Police Department. He claimed Jones was inside Eden Lounge and had a warrant for her arrest for grand theft since September 2025.

Upon confirming the warrant, the

As a two-time convicted felon, Jordan then was charged with possession of a chemical agent by a convicted felon.

Inside her purse, a plastic bag with cannabis also was found, as well as a paper wrapper containing multiple broken pills that were later identified as Alprazolam.

Jordan now also faces state misdemeanor charges and possession of Alprazolam.

She currently is out on bond.

3

Ocoee Police mourns loss of former chaplain

The Ocoee Police Department is mourning the loss of former Police Chaplain

Dr. Gloria Stephens.

She died Wednesday, April 8.

Stephens faithfully served the department and the Ocoee community for many years.

“She was a constant presence during some of life’s most dif

ment shared on social media. “Dr. Stephens devoted her life to public service, leaving a lasting impact on everyone she encountered. We are grateful for her years of service and the difference she made in our department and community. She will be deeply missed.”

4

Burn ban in effect in Orange County Orange County’s drought index has reached 500 on the Keetch-Byram Drought Index scale.

500 KBDI for seven consecutive days.

Outdoor burnings such as campfires, outdoor fireplaces, openflame heating devices and more now are banned.  State- or county-authorized outdoor burnings are not affected by the ban, neither is the use of outdoor grills or pits.

Orange County Fire Rescue reminds residents to clear trash and dead vegetation from front and backyards; remove leaves and debris from roof and gut-

case evacuation is ordered; create at least 30 feet of defensible space around homes; use caution when grilling, camping and discarding cigarettes; and call 911 if a fire occurs or someone is violating the ban.

5

Dr. Phillips High student arrested for bringing handgun to school

Dr. Phillips High School student Joshua Brown, 17, was arrested Thursday, April 9, after bringing a handgun to campus.

According to the Orlando Police Department, Dr. Phillips High was notified of a student on campus with a loaded firearm.

Officers quickly identified Brown and located him in class.  Brown attempted to flee, but School Resource Officers inter-

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 OF PUBLICATION: THURSDAY, MAY 14

Courtesy of the Ocoee Police Department

Former Ocoee Police Chaplain Dr. Gloria Stephens served the department for many years.

Courtesy photo

The Dr. Phillips High School 17-year-old was armed with a 9 mm handgun.

BLOOM SHAKALAKA

Ocoee’s Michael and Alicia Rodriguez carefully placed the five plants they purchased on the first day of Spring Fever in the Garden Saturday, April 11, in their wagon.

They were delighted to see some of the vendors they purchased plants from last year again at the Bloom and Grow Society’s twoday festival. Alicia Rodriguez said she shared with the vendors how their plants have grown since they bought them a year ago.

With smiles on their faces, Michael and Alicia Rodriguez wanted the joy of the festival to continue, so they decided to go to Spring Fever again Sunday, April 12, in downtown Winter Garden. Dozens of vendors sold various plants, experts shared their knowledge, entertainers brought live music and fun was had by all.

— MEGAN BRUINSMA

LIZ RAMOS AND LETICIA SILVA

New program to provide prenatal care to expecting moms, babies

Foundation for a Healthier West Orange and the Maternal Health Collaborative are hosting Healthy Beginnings for Moms this weekend.

LETICIA SILVA STAFF WRITER

The Foundation for a Healthier West Orange will host its first one-stop shop to connect moms with doctors and midwives, counselors and other necessary resources for healthy, long-term pregnancies.

Healthy Beginnings for Moms will take place from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, April 18, at 1200 E. Plant St., Winter Garden. Expecting mothers will receive care regardless of health insurance, financial situation or living environment.

It will provide prenatal support and resources to soon-to-be moms who might not otherwise be able to afford care.

Women also can receive essential items putting them in a better situation than when they arrived.

“Having a healthy pregnancy is the first step to a healthy birth and newborn,” said Dorcas Dillard, HUBB community resource specialist at Foundation for a Healthier West Orange. “We want to make sure that we’re moving that needle in the right direction. … We will be very supportive and it’s going to be a stress-free environment.”

According to the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation’s County Health Rankings, Orange County has a low birthweight rate of 9%, which exceeds the national average of 8.5%. Low birthweights are under 5 pounds, 8 ounces and can be caused

due to a variety of reasons, such as inadequate prenatal care and nutrition, maternal stress, preterm births and more.

It also is a public-health indicator that can be used to assess maternal health, nutrition, poverty and health care delivery. According to the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, infants born with low birthweight have about 20 times greater chance of dying than those not underweight.

Infants who survive could face adverse health outcomes such as lower IQ, decreased growth, chronic conditions and impaired language development. With its mission to make West Orange County the healthiest county in the nation, the Foundation for a Healthier West Orange created the Healthy Beginnings for Moms event to help moms have safer pregnancies and healthier babies. Partners such as the Central Florida

Diaper Bank, Abbott Health, Orlando Health and Commonsense Childbirth School of Midwifery will be available to assist moms.

“We are doing this because we don’t want people to go through their pregnancy and not have care upfront, and then at the end of the process, there could be an issue,” Dillard said. “We want them to get prenatal vitamins, we want them to get with a doctor as early in the process as possible, so that if there’s anything the doctor has to look at or the midwife has to look at, they can do that. It’s best to find out right from the beginning.”

Prenatal care not only is key for the development of the baby but also for the mother.

“If you don’t have early prevention for some reason, you don’t know that you might be a high-risk pregnancy,” Dillard said. “If the doctor or midwife knows up front that there may be issues because of your health (conditions) like high-blood pressure, dia-

IF YOU GO HEALTHY BEGINNINGS FOR MOMS WHEN: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, April 18 WHERE: 1200 E. Plant St., Winter Garden WHAT TO BRING: Valid photo ID, proof of address, proof of income. If you do not have all the documents, still register. Foundation for a Healthier West Orange is there to help. REGISTRATION: bit.ly/4vmb7Gl

betes, they can help you through the process.”

The goal of this event is to provide mothers with prenatal care and resources for a healthy baby and mom alike.

“Prenatal care is key,” Dillard said. “It’s important to know where to turn to to get care and resources and who you can talk to to make sure that you have prenatal care ahead of time.”

Although the event will take place in Winter Garden, all are welcome. “We will not turn anyone away,” she said. “We want to be a place where they feel comfortable and we can help them get started.”

Michael and Alicia Rodriguez loved Spring Fever in the Garden so much, they decided to go back to the festival for the second day after already purchasing five plants the first day.

Sam Pucillo worked on her chalk artwork.

Charlotte Shunk enjoyed her time at the festival with Cilantro and some delicious spaghetti.

Sandra Jenney with Leaves by Jenney was tranquil in her plant oasis.

Melany Jimenez posed in front of a butterfly so she could post the photo on social media.

Right: Doug Rimler proudly held plants from his business Plantocity.

Virgina Pagoni, Luis Rexacl and Diego and Leia spent time together in a chair designed by Creative Gardens.

Meet Windermere’s barbershop quartet

Windermere High

inspired to form A Good

IF YOU GO

ORANGE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS TOP TALENT LIVE

WHEN: 6 p.m. Saturday, April 25

WHERE: Alexis & Jim Pugh Theater at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts

DETAILS: Students from across Orange County Public Schools, including 10 groups representing seven West Orange County schools, will showcase their talents in hopes of winning the top prize of a $1,000 gift card and $500 for the winner’s school. Funds raised from Top Talent LIVE will support the Foundation for Orange County Public Schools’ mission to provide arts enrichment for all OCPS students as well as support post-secondary arts education journeys for students experiencing poverty and homelessness.

FAN FAVORITE: To vote for Fan Favorite, text FFSTAGE to 41444 or visit bit.ly/4t2GDro.

It’s $1 per vote, and you can vote as many times as you’d like until Saturday, April 25.

WATCH LIVE: bit.ly/ Fdn4OCPSTopTalent

LIZ RAMOS MANAGING EDITOR

Not more than three weeks after four Windermere High School seniors formed a singing group in February were they singing in front of a camera to audition for Foundation for Orange County Public Schools’ Top Talent LIVE.

But instead of singing as pop icons, rock stars or a boy band, Chandler Hall, George Kudmani, Connor Kelly and Andrew Rockefeller were auditioning as A Good Old Barbershop Quartet.

Dressed in khakis and white dress shirts, they harmonized and syncronized some of their music with choreographed moves.

A Good Old Barbershop Quartet was selected to compete in Top Talent LIVE at 6 p.m. Saturday, April 25, at the Alexis & Jim Pugh Theater at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts.

But the foundation staff wanted to help the seniors take their act to the next level.

“They said we sounded great, but now we needed to look the part,” Hall said.

The foundation purchased classic straw boater hats almost every barbershop quartet wears for the Windermere High quartet. The boys completed the classic barbershop quartet look with red, white and black plaid vests and matching bow ties.

Now, Hall, Kudmani, Kelly and Rockefeller are ready to take the stage in hopes of winning first place at Top Talent LIVE, earning a $1,000 gift card and $500 for Windermere High.

PERFECT HARMONY

A Good Old Barbershop Quartet formed after Myron Whittlesey, a 15-year performer and vocal captain of Disney’s The Dapper Dans, spoke to Windermere High choir students.  His visit triggered memories in the seniors.

WEST ORANGE COUNTY PARTICIPANTS

n A Good Old Barbershop Quartet (Andrew Rockefellar, Chandler Hall, Connor Kelly and George Kudmani), singing, Windermere High School n Marquise Bloom, piano, Horizon High School n Jordyn Cohen, piano, Lake Buena Vista High School n Sophie Neves, dance, Independence Elementary School n Chloe Renner, dance, West Orange High School n Sophia Taylor, dance, Chain of Lakes Middle School n Emma Winter, guitar/singing, Tildenville Elementary School

you’re thinking five moves ahead,” he said.

As they’re performing, it’s about timing, pitches, harmonies and chords. And that’s just to sing.

Add in the timing and accuracy of their movements so they’re in sync, whether it’s as simple as putting their hats above their heads or on their hearts or moving their hands to their ears to show the listening motion to match a lyric.

Then there’s the cherry on top: the matching outfits from head-to-toe with the straw boater hats, bow ties, vests, white dress shirts, khaki pants and belts.

Despite the hard work and dedication to making the performance perfect, the gentlemen find beauty in knowing it is not always going to be the same.

“I appreciate the fact we have creative freedom,” Kelly said. “Our song could be sung a million different ways. It’s different every time we perform it.”

One change in pitch, movement or note could change the way the group is seen and heard. It adds a note of whimsy to the performance.

Kudmani said it’s their bond and incredible chemistry that makes their group outstanding.

Not only does the performance bring joy to Hall, Kelly, Kudmani and Rockefeller, but also it teleports the audience back in time.

Rockefeller remembered being 5 years old sitting on Main Street, U.S.A., at Magic Kingdom enjoying cotton candy when The Dapper Dans were passing by in their horse-drawn trolley.

“Your ears were blessed with their beautiful chords, crazy high notes and complex harmonies,” Rockefeller said.

The nostalgia and unique energy of the barbershop quartet inspired the boys.

“I guess you could say barbershop was written into our DNA from that point,” Kudmani said.

Not long after Whittlesey visited the school, Kelly approached Hall about forming their own quartet with longtime friend Kudmani and newto-chorus Rockefeller.

Kelly, Kudmani and Hall have known each other since their days as sixthgraders at Bridgewater Middle School. Despite Hall knowing Rockefeller since performing in band together at Bridgewater Middle, he didn’t join the gang until he decided to shift gears to choir his senior year at Windermere.

It all was kismet.

They knew instantly their chemistry, friendship, passion for anything and everything musical, and desire to laugh all the time would compose the perfect quartet to bring the a capella style of music created in the late 1800s to the Orange County Public Schools talent show in the 21st century.

Hall said they all also had the music knowledge, ability to maintain pitches and high-paced comedic energy that would be key to being a successful barbershop quartet.

They chose to perform for Top Talent LIVE the only barbershop quartet song they know: “I Love a Barbershop Song.”

KEEPING BARBERSHOP ALIVE

There is plenty that goes into a successful barbershop quartet.

Kudmani likens performing as a barbershop quartet to playing a game of chess — but even harder.

“In chess, you’re thinking two moves ahead, but in barbershop,

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Barbershop quartets gained popularity from 1900 to 1919 until dying down for 20 or so years before picking back up in popularity once again. The four-part harmonies brought joy to people during World War I and after the end of the Great Depression. Like music of any kind often is for people, barbershop was an escape from reality, even if only for a few minutes.

Kudmani said the energy and lightheartedness of barbershop is infectious.

The quartet saw it firsthand performing Thursday, April 9, at Open Mic Night at Pilars Loft.

The group wanted to test the waters of a live audience and decided to put on their straw boater hats and hit the stage at Pilars.

Kelly said on the busiest night he has ever seen the piano bar, he could hear a pin drop as A Good Old Barbershop Quartet sang. Usually, he said, there are side conversations happening during any given performance, so he was surprised to see everyone’s attention was fully on them.

The group was even more surprised when they received a standing ovation.

Kelly said people approached him after the performance to say the high school boys were keeping the tradition of barbershop alive.

“Right after the performance, I had the biggest smile glued on my face,” Rockefeller said. “It wasn’t just super fun for us to perform but for (the audience) as well. ” As Top Talent LIVE approaches, the quartet can’t wait to introduce barbershop to people who might never have heard or seen it performed before.

And the quartet might not stop there.

Although the boys are headed in different directions upon graduation, they are hopeful A Good Old Barbershop Quartet will take the stage at Pilars Loft again, and when the holidays roll around, they have an a cappella Christmas song at the ready.

Outside their barbershop quartet, what makes the group come alive is the fact the boys are friends and “regular guys who laugh at everything,” Rockefeller said.

“We all have our own lives, but we’re tied together with music,” Hall said. “Music brings us together.”

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WEST ORANGE TIMES

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Photos by Liz Ramos

School seniors Chandler Hall, George Kudmani, Connor Kelly and Andrew Rockefeller were

Old Barbershop Quartet after 15-year vocal lead of The Dapper Dans at Walt Disney World, Myron Whittlesey, visited the school to talk to the choir.

WHILE

Dear Editor:

I read Leticia Silva’s April 1, 2026, article regarding Sonya Alvarez’s account of her father’s guardianship case in Orange County, Florida, and I am writing to set the record straight in that case.

I represented two of Alvarez’s brothers and her cousin in her father’s guardianship case in 2022. Alvarez’s father was concerned about Alvarez’s handling of his money, and he became upset upon discovering what little he had in his bank account (what should have easily been six figures was only about $6,000). He requested a guardianship as a result.

Alvarez’s father (the “ward” to protect his privacy in this article) was examined by three professionals appointed to his case, and he was found to be fully incapacitated by the court upon consideration of their examination reports.

The ward had named Alvarez as his “pre-need guardian” in a prior document; however, Section 744.3045(4), Florida Statutes, provides that in considering a declaration of pre-need guardian, the “court shall not be bound to appoint the pre-need guardian if the pre-need guardian is found to be unqualified to serve as guardian.”

After two half-day trials in which the ward and Alvarez were both represented by counsel, the court determined Alvarez and her son used the ward’s funds “for their own expenses on a continuing basis and with no intention of repaying” the ward. The court found both to have “a financial conflict of interest” that was contrary to the ward’s interests. None of the ward’s assets were co-owned as Alvarez asserted in Silva’s article. Alvarez was also removed as co-manager and cotrustee from her father’s business and trust, as the court found Alvarez “committed a serious breach of trust as to the trust and its assets and otherwise thwarting the trust’s purpose.” To date, the ward is still missing assets that are believed to be in Alvarez’s and/or her son’s possession.

The court-appointed professional guardian tried repeatedly to work with Alvarez in allowing her time with her father. However, concerns regarding mismanagement of his medications and the fact that the ward would often

become upset after his visits with Alvarez led to the guardian imposing supervised visits only with her. Ultimately, it was Alvarez who ended her visits with her father — not the guardian. Alvarez launched a harassing, fraudulent smear campaign against the guardian, which ultimately led to her resignation out of frustration and exhaustion over the many false allegations Alvarez made against her. Alvarez’s actions in her father’s guardianship case were so egregious that the court determined her to no longer have “interested person” status in the case. This is reserved for those persons who have repeatedly committed bad acts to where the court will no longer acknowledge them in the legal case. Alvarez has no one to blame but herself for the current situation in which she finds herself.

In my 15 years as an attorney, I have seen that while not perfect, Florida’s guardianship system generally works well to assist those most vulnerable to others who would take advantage of them for self-gain. Unfortunately, sometimes those named in estate-planning documents turn out to be the opportunists from whom wards need protection. Alvarez’s father’s case is an excellent example of that, and the judge made the right calls in removing Alvarez from the fiduciary positions she abused and then ultimately from the legal case itself.

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

ANGLICAN

Further into Silva’s article, Alvarez’s cohort Hillary Hogue insinuates that judges order guardianships so lawyers can get paid. Nothing could be further from the truth, and to suggest such a thing shows Hogue’s lack of knowledge in the guardianship process. In addition, the prospect of jury trials in guardianship is misguided and inappropriate. The courts keep these cases confidential to protect the dignity of those vulnerable persons — it is not something judges or attorneys who practice in this area of law take lightly. These cases need to remain as private as they reasonably can be, and the courts need to maintain the discretion to ensure those persons who have only the best interests of the wards at heart are appointed to these difficult positions.

GUARDIANSHIP ARTICLE INCOMPLETE, INACCURATE

Dear Editor:

I was forwarded a copy of the article, “Winter Garden resident fights for guardianship reforms.” I was completely shocked by this article and the number of inaccurate statements contained therein.   I represent the former and current guardian for Mr. Pherai, and I’ve been involved in this case since approximately October 2021. I can say that the Pherai guardianship case was one of the most, if not the most, litigious guardianship cases I’ve been involved in during the course of my 20 years of practice. Nearly all of the litigation stemmed from having to defend against the actions of Ms. Alvarez or trying to combat actions she took (that) adversely affected her father, the ward.

It seems that the only information likely received before publishing your article was from Ms. Alvarez. I can tell you from firsthand knowledge that your article is grossly inaccurate and leaves out an innumerable amount of key events that have occurred in the past four-plus years. If I took the time to write a history of what occurred, it would take me several days to do so.

Your article inaccurately portrays Ms. Alvarez as a victim. This is completely far from the truth. In reality, it was her actions (that) caused the appointment of a professional guardian and the significant amount of litigation in this case.

ANGLICAN COMMUNITY

FELLOWSHIP CHURCH

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

SUNDAY SERVICE 10:00 AM Find us at: Theacf.net

BAPTIST

BEULAH BAPTIST

Pastor Casey Butner 671 Beulah Rd, Winter Garden 407-656-3342 | BeulahBaptistWG.org

SUNDAY BIBLE STUDY 9:30AM SUNDAY SERVICE 11:00AM WEDNESDAY SERVICE 6:00PM

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH

125 E Plant St., Winter Garden 407-656-2352

CHRISTINE J. LOMAS LOMASLAW, P.A. WINTER PARK

SUNDAYS 8:30 am Traditional 9:45 am Bible Study 11:00 am Contemporary WEDNESDAYS - 6pm - Awana Pastor Tim Grosshans www.fbcwg.org

2nd Campus: FOUNDATION WORSHIP

Your article … makes no reference to and ignores the tremendous amount of hard work that was performed by the professional guardian in the case. You can’t even imagine the amount of time and energy spent in this case by the professional guardian. The guardian cared greatly for Mr. Pherai and spent considerable time dealing with his medical issues and issues between the siblings. Her work was commendable in this case.

SUNDAYS 9:45 am - All Ages Foundation Academy High School 15304 Tilden Rd., Winter Garden www.FoundationWorship.com 407-730-1867

Your article also seems to imply the court system is responsible and/or a cause of Ms. Alvarez’s purported plight in this case. In actuality, we were lucky enough to have two of the most experienced and knowledgeable judges preside over the Pherai matter. The two judges assigned to the case during the four-plus years are among the most caring and attentive judges we have in Orange County. I know firsthand that the two assigned judges definitely take a personal interest in ensuring that wards are protected, and they did so in this case.

Lastly, your article makes no reference to the six other siblings … who care for their dad and have been impacted by this case and the actions of Ms. Alvarez.

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

CHURCH OF GOD

OCOEE CHURCH OF GOD Pastor Thomas Odom 1105 N. Lakewood Avenue, Ocoee 407-656-8011

EPISCOPAL

CHURCH OF THE MESSIAH

241 N. Main, Winter Garden Services: 8, 9:30, & 11am, 7pm www.churchofthemessiah.com

METHODIST

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

UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST WINDERMERE UNION CHURCH 10710 Park Ridge-Gotha Rd. Windermere, FL 34786 407-876-2112 Worship times: 9:00am Adult Sunday School 10:00am Worship www.windermereunion.org

I think a retraction is certainly in order or perhaps a follow-up article (that) takes into consideration the actual events that occurred.

FAMILIAR FACES

EDITOR’S

NOTE:

Familiar Faces is an ongoing feature in which we spotlight people you have seen but whose stories you may not know. If you want to nominate someone for a future edition, please email Managing Editor Liz Ramos, lramos@ orangeobserver.com.

Tabitha Erbe

The local bookworm and author spends her time in West Orange helping children and families through story times, coaching, education and literacy.

LETICIA SILVA STAFF WRITER

When Tabitha Erbe was a young girl, she loved reading. But more than just reading, she loved writing.

She would take her favorite stories and rewrite the endings, or she’d continue on with what she thought would happen next.

She found the task relaxing, and it brought her joy.

Her behavior was encouraged — healthy for the mind.

Today, Erbe is a Jill of all trades.

She consistently is out in communities such as Oakland, Winter Garden, Clermont and Minneola working with children, teenagers and adults through her life-coaching business.

Working as an educator most of her life with at-risk children, she found her purpose in helping them achieve their goals.

But more than that, she’s an author of two published children’s book, “Finn & Hatch” and “The Monster in the Hallway.”

During Oakland farmers markets, you can find Erbe under her tent with books, sensory bins and a smile ready to welcome those who cross her path.

There, she’s known as the Oakland Book Lady.

She brings books to read aloud and creates lessons for the children, making reading a joyful activity.

Her read aloud’s always are successful, making children smile and learn and parents happy.

“We do sensory play, we work on community-skill building, and quite honestly, we just get a lot of kids together to be themselves and be positive while learning and being engaged in a very natural space,” she said.

Kelly Starkey, a Winter Garden resident, met Erbe at the Oakland Farmers Market around six months ago.

Starkey owns a local fitness group called Fit4Mom, which organizes monthly walks around the market, ending at Erbe’s tent for story time and crafts.

“Tabitha is a very positive person,” Starkey said. “All the moms (who) come to our walks are very drawn to her. She always has great stories to tell, and she’s always very approachable.”

Beyond telling great stories, Starkey said she also is good at getting down to the levels of the little kids that come participate in the activities she provides.

“She’s always mindful, coming up with fun sensory bins or really fun crafts that are age appropriate,” Starkey said. “My 2-year-old has come to story time, and he’s played with many of her sensory bins. He even recog-

nizes her sometimes if we see her at a different event. The activities that she brings are more than just for fun —she always wants to make sure the kids are learning something, too.”

For Starkey and her 2-year-old son, Erbe’s lessons are valuable.

Her son is working on grip strength and looks forward to playing with Erbe’s sensory bins.

Even though he’s too young to understand some of Erbe’s lessons through readings, he constantly is learning.

“No matter what the age of the kids, they can still feel engaged and like they’re learning something new,” Starkey said. “I’m very glad that our paths have crossed. She’s a very positive person in this community, and I love the work she does, the messages she’s spreading and how much she advocates for the youth in our community. She’s good people.”

When Erbe is not at the farmers market, she is going to schools to read her books to children, teaching them to be inclusive to friends who are different, such as Hatch, a fish who lives on the coral reef. He has autism and is learning to communicate with friends as a non-verbal fish.

“My family is largely touched by the neurodivergent community,” she said. “I have nephews on the spectrum who teach our family in a number of ways. … My own two children are also neurodivergent, and learning to parent through a special lens that is appropriate and encouraging of both of them in different ways is really special. Being able to understand — and even if I don’t always understand — but meet them with empathy and curiosity for the ways that they’re seeing the world around them truly makes me a better mom, and it really is something that I want all parents and family members, classrooms to experience.”

Her other book, “the Monster in the Hallway,” shows children how to navigate and regulate big emotions, such as being scared, curious and brave.

“It’s about feeling more than one

“I love the feeling of community about Oakland. It’s very small-feeling, very connected. Truly, the parents who come out for what is supposed to be just book time for their babies turns into parent connections and moms really feeling like they have a tribe and a village, which is so important.”

— Tabitha Erbe

feeling to go to bed,” she said. “We don’t have to say we don’t feel scared. It’s ‘we can feel scared, and.’”

Everything she does has a purpose.

After reading her books, she likes to include a lesson, whether it be through writing, art or a physical activity.

To Erbe, being able to help children and parents in a positive way is the most rewarding feeling, especially in Oakland.

“I love the feeling of community about Oakland,” she said. “It’s very small-feeling, very connected. Truly, the parents who come out for what is supposed to be just book time for their babies turns into parent connections and moms really feeling like they have a tribe and a village, which is so important.”

She said she’s watched quite a few kids grow and change over the months they’ve worked together, too. Whether it be through sensory bins, activities or regulation exercises, she’s happy she’s making a difference.

Today, she is working on the sequel to “Finn & Hatch,” “Doris and Tarney,” which is about a puffer fish getting ready to participate in a relay race and learning to self-regulate through breathing methods.

“The goal is that our kids will read this and learn it throughout the book,” she said. “They can use it as a strategy to calm down and get regulated, to overcome something super scary or hard or tricky. I’m really excited for

this book because it’s got a very tangible lesson to teach kids.”

Through everything she does, she hopes to foster joy in reading and teach lessons about inclusivity and self regulation.

“I was that kid who grew up loving lying on my floor rewriting stories,” she said. “I don’t want that to go away. And I trust that it won’t because there are kids coming to the park in Oakland, and it’s very much screen-free, jumping and playing and talking and connecting. And I trust that will stay with all of us for as long as we are a community.”

New Life Slavic Church earns city approval

LIZ RAMOS MANAGING EDITOR

Winter Garden will have a new church.

The Winter Garden City Commission unanimously approved Thursday, April 9, the second reading of three ordinances impacting New Life Slavic Church.  Mayor John Rees was absent.

The approval of the ordinances will allow New Life Slavic Church to construct a 11,162-square-foot church, which will contain a onestory worship area with 286 seats that will connect with a two-story area for offices and meeting rooms.

One ordinance allows the church to annex approximately 1.5 acres at 1414 East Crown Point Road and about 2.02 acres at 1325 East Fullers Cross Road into the city of Winter Garden.

Another ordinance amends the future land use map of the Winter Garden Comprehensive Plan by changing the land use designation of the property from Orange County Low Density Residential to City Low Residential.

The third ordinance rezones the property from Orange County A-1, which is Citrus Rural District, to City PUD, which is Planned Unit Development.

The church also will mitigate

impacts to surrounding properties by providing 30-foot landscape buffers along all property boundaries. Staff also will preserve many of the mature trees at the boundary of the property.

Two access points on the property — one from East Fullers Cross Road and another along East Crown Point Road — will be created. There is an existing traffic signal at the intersection, and the applicant will stripe a designated left-turning lane along East Crown Point Road to assist with traffic turning into the property.

CITY HONORS POSTER WINNERS

The commission recognized the winners of the 2026 Drop Savers Poster Contest that the Florida Section of the American Water Works Association sponsors.

Students from kindergarten through 12th grade were encouraged to create a poster depicting a water conservation idea in the form of a slogan, drawing or both.

The contest allows students to promote water awareness as well as the importance of water conservation.

This year, 138 students participated, and a panel of judges selected the winning posters based on the message as well as creativity and originality and not just artistic ability.

The District 1 winner was

StarChild Academy first-grader Caitlyn Bryant. The District 2 winner was StarChild Academy third-grader Shriya Cheripalli. The District 3 winner was StarChild Academy fifth-grader Victoria Okuneye. Foundation Academy sixth-grader Mercedes Jones was the District 4 winner, and South Lake Home Educators’ senior Delilah Swingler was the District 5 winner.

StarChild Academy second-grader Cedric Davis III, Image South Lake sixth-grader Kaleb Diniz and Foundation Academy seventh-grader Camryn Hardy all received honorable mentions.

The commission also proclaimed April as Florida’s Water Conservation Month.

CENTER FOR DIGESTIVE HEALTH COMING

The commission unanimously approved the site plan for 1600 Daniels Road, which is lot three of the Daniels Commerce Center commercial subdivision.

The site plan is for the Center for Digestive Health and includes the construction of a two-story, 15,348-square-foot medical office building with associated site improvements such as landscaping and parking on the 1.31-acre property.

Kelly Carson, the planning direc-

tor for the city, said the site plan is consistent with the property’s C-2 zoning requirements and also is consistent with the city’s comprehensive plan and ordinances.

PROPOSED ANIMAL CONTROL ORDINANCE

Commissioners unanimously approved the first reading of an ordinance repealing and replacing the existing Animal Control provisions to adopt the Orange County Animal Services ordinance.

The ordinance also would establish a city-wide leash and direct control requirement for animals in public spaces.

Economic Director Marc Hutchinson said the purpose of the proposed ordinance is to reinforce city regulations while ensuring alignment with Orange County’s animal services ordinance regarding overall public safety and health to more effectively regulate control of dogs, cats and other domesticated animals regarding the use of leashes, direct and competent owner control of pets in public spaces, certain restrictions for animals in parks and recreational facilities, and refining requirements related to the dog-friendly dining program.  The second reading of the ordinance will take place at the commission meeting Thursday, April 23.

LEARN

MORE

To find Erbe’s social media accounts, books and coaching services, visit tideslearning.org.

IN OTHER NEWS

n The Winter Garden City Commission, Winter Garden Police Department, community members and families celebrated five new officers being sworn into service.

n The commission unanimously approved the purchase of 32 meridian barriers and four trailers for $483,170.72. Police Chief Steve Graham said the portable roadway barriers are essential to enhancing public safety, improving event management efficiency and meeting the city’s operational responsibilities during downtown special events.

n Commissioners unanimously approved the issuing of a purchase order to T.D. Thomson Construction, Inc. for a percolation pond repair in the amount of $203,712.19.

n More parking is on the way to downtown Winter Garden after the City Commission unanimously approved issuing a purchase order to T.D. Thomson Construction Inc. in the amount of $131,831.33 for additional parking on West Plant Street. An area along the Oval on West Plant Street has been identified for 20 new angled parking spaces.

n The commission approved the Winter

Garden Police Athletic League’s Donut Dash 5K run from 7 to 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 7.

Tabitha Erbe is a mom of two, life coach, children’s book author and a valued member of the West Orange community.

Courtesy photos

“Finn & Hatch” and “The Monster in the Hallway” help children through big emotions.

Healthy West Orange pumps up community at Ocoee Block Party

April is National Safe Digging Month, a nationwide initiative dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of safe digging that can prevent unnecessary damage to underground utility lines. At Lake Apopka Natural Gas District (LANGD), safety is at the heart of everything we do, and we are proud to keep our communities safe and informed by spreading awareness of the importance of practicing safe digging.

5. Confirm the Marks: Once the two full business days have passed, confirm that all member utility companies have responded to your ticket.

6. Dig with Care: Now that the buried facilities on your property have been marked or cleared, it’s time to start digging!

For additional information, visit Sunshine811.com/6-stepsto-safe-digging.

Spring is here and for many it’s the perfect time of year for home improvement projects. Whether you’re landscaping, installing a new fence, or breaking ground on a larger project, one crucial step should never be overlooked: calling 811 before you dig.

Why Call 811?

Spread the Christmas spirit through-out your home withnatural gas. A natural gaswater heaterprovideswarmer and faster hot water – no more longwaits for a shower or bath. Hangstockings next to a beautiful naturalgas fireplace—and forget the hauling storing and clean-upof wood. Plus, outdo last year’s turkey-and-fixings with the even heat and precise control of natural gas cooking.

In the United States, an underground utility line is damaged, on average, every six minutes. Striking a buried gas, water, or electrical line can cause service disruptions, costly repairs, or even serious injury. Fortunately, a simple call to 811 or an online request at Sunshine811.com can help prevent these concerns. The process is easy, free, and required by law in Florida.

Safe Digging Tips

A Commitment to Safety and Community Beyond Safe Digging Month, LANGD is committed to protecting our customers, contractors, and community members year-round. As a trusted energy provider for over 65 years, we continue to promote safety best practices while delivering safe, affordable, and reliable natural gas to homes and businesses in Apopka, Clermont, Winter Garden, and surrounding areas.

To ensure your next project is both safe and efficient, keep these key tips in mind:

1. Plan Your Project: Before contacting Sunshine 811, gather specific information about your digging project, such as your address, type of project, timeline and more.

2. Contact Sunshine 811: Once you have all project information ready, contact Sunshine 811 online at Sunshine811.com or by phone at 811.

3.Wait the Required Time: After you submit a ticket, member utility operators have two full business days to mark the location of underground facilities on your property.

4. Confirm Utility Responses: Follow the progress of each member utility by viewing the positive response codes they use to explain your dig site.

This National Safe Digging Month and beyond, join LANGD and Sunshine 811 in making safety a priority. For more information about natural gas services, safety tips, and how LANGD can support your energy needs, visit www.langd.org or contact our team at (407) 656-2734 or EnergyChoice@langd.org.

The Rivera family was all smiles during the event.

Alec and Theresa Nachtsheim enjoyed smash burgers.

Jaise Jenkins enjoyed a snow cone during the Healthy West Orange Block Party.

Kahlese and Cortura Harrison played Connect Four.

Lake Buena Vista’s 20th Relay for Life took place Saturday, March 28, to celebrate survivors, honor caregivers, remember loved ones and raise funds for the American Cancer Society.

Attendees were celebrated for their journeys as cancer survivors, cancer patients and caregivers, before heading to the track to complete the first lap.

Attendees completed laps through-

out the event to fight for cancer, because cancer never sleeps.

The event was complete with a DJ, live performances, games, activities, food trucks and refreshments for all to indulge.

The night ended with fireworks and one last lap.

Proceeds from the event directly benefit the American Cancer Society.

— LETICIA SILVA

Code Enforcement Board will remain in city of Ocoee

MEGAN BRUINSMA STAFF WRITER

The Ocoee City Commission unanimously voted Tuesday, April 7, to maintain the city’s current Code Enforcement Board rather than moving forward with a special magistrate.

District 4 Commissioner George Oliver III was absent.

District 1 Commissioner Scott Kennedy made the motion after hearing feedback from members of the board stating a special magistrate would represent Ocoee unjustly. The proposed ordinance would have amended Chapter 7 of the Code of Ordinances to replace the citizenrun Code Enforcement Board with a special magistrate system.

City staff also will advise the commission on the effectiveness of the Code Enforcement Board, and if needed, it will reevaluate the decision to maintain the board at a later date.

During public comments, Code Enforcement Board Vice Chair Warren Lewis said the justification for eliminating the board was based on

inaccurate information about its performance.

“For months, I’ve asked that the public record be corrected,” he said.

“Those errors have now become the foundation for a major policy decision.”

Lewis discussed a recent Code Enforcement Board meeting where the board approved seven out of nine recommended fines and said this demonstrated the board’s willingness to enforce penalties. He proposed a hybrid model that could combine a special magistrate with the preexisting citizen-run board, which would preserve efficiency while maintaining the citizens’ involvement.

Board chair Joe Bandur shared similar concerns. He emphasized the importance of having local residents — not a single official — decide the cases that impact the community.

“This is our city,” he said. “We believe neighbors should be part of that process.”

Bandur also presented to the City Commission a petition with more than 100 signatures from residents

in Ocoee who supported maintaining the citizen-run board.

Following the City Commission meeting Tuesday, Feb. 3, during which the commission heard the presentation of the proposed special magistrate system, Bandur and Lewis met with many commissioners oneon-one to discuss the repercussions of removing it.

Kennedy said those discussions are what changed his mind about the decision, and everything presented in a public hearing needs to be accurate, but there were misstatements during the Tuesday, Feb. 3, presentation. His issue with the board was the slow response time — sometimes neighbors have to wait six months or more for a resolution to come. But he saw how receptive Bandur and Lewis were to the feedback.

Mayor Pro Tem Richard Firstner said he thought a special magistrate would be less personal and could be detrimental to the community.

Commissioners will move forward with evaluating the board’s performance. They sited the lack of train-

ing, legal guidance and insufficient communication between staff and volunteers as main issues that can be corrected without dismantling the current system.

District 2 Commissioner Rosemary Wilsen said moving forward, the board needs to ensure it meets a quorum, rather than go extended periods without meeting, which has left code violations unresolved for months and frustrated residents who want action.

UTILITY ENFORCEMENT CHANGES

The City Commission also saw the presentation of the utility billing policies and procedures assessment.

Currently, there is more than $2 million in unpaid utility bills, which prompted the commissioners to approve changes to how the city enforces water billing and collections.

City staff told commissioners that $439,000 of that total is more than five years old and legally not collectable, which requires formal write-off approval.

Many of the enforcement practices were weakened during the COVID-19

pandemic and have not been reinstated. The issues revealed are property owners not being held accountable for tenant water bills, liens weren’t placed on delinquent properties, payment plans lack structure and late fees were inconsistently applied.

To correct the issue, commissioners approved a series of reforms including: reinstating policies that hold property owners liable for tenant debts; placing liens on delinquent properties, with foreclosure for nonpayment; sending unpaid accounts to collections; increasing water tampering penalties; raising customer deposits for new accounts; and increasing reconnection fees.

City staff cited one rental property with more than $10,000 in unpaid water bills as tenants cycled through without settling balances.

Citizens who are in a low-income household also have the option to utilize the Orange County CDBG program, which is a bill pay assistance program and also has a home repair program to help fix any leaks.

Hector Rodrigues attended Relay for Life with David, Abigail and Cailey Clemente.

The event kicked off with survivors and caregivers taking a lap.

Alex and Sandra Stimage raised funds at the event alongside Joewee Mills and Jaime Castro.

Children were able to get their hair done by Dorothy herself.

Left: While “It’s Oz Week” was the theme for this year’s event, superheroes also were seen at the event.

SPORTS

HIGH 5

1

Horizon High boys volleyball team won the 2026 Metro Championship by defeating Freedom High 3-0 Thursday, April 9. The Hawks won the title for the first time in program history. The team topped West Orange 3-0 Tuesday, April 7, which earned Horizon the Metro West Championship title for the third year in program history. Horizon holds a 19-3 record, 3-0 record and first place in Class 3A District 5, and a No. 9 ranking in Florida.

2

The First Academy girls lacrosse team has been dominating on the field since the season began. The team holds a 15-2 record after defeating Trinity Prep 18-5 in the Class 1A District 6 quarterfinals Wednesday, April 8. The game was more than another win on the team’s record book. TFA’s junior goalie Savannah Case made her 200th career save, and eighth-grader Lily Rumble made her 100th career goal. Rumble leads the team in goals per game with four and Case averaged a .478 save percentage.

3

West Orange High boys lacrosse team has wrapped up its 2025-26 campaign with a 12-6 record and prepared for the 2A District 6 Regional Semifinal game against Olympia High at 7 p.m. Tuesday, April 14. Results were not available as of press time. But before treading deeper into the postseason, the team celebrated its players for their accomplishments. For on-field performance, the Warriors awarded Noah Mascia the Warrior Award, Dustin Strickland the MVP, Warrun Stuart the Coaches Award, Brayden Sylvester the Offensive Player of the Year and Hajune Baik the Defensive Player of the Year. West Orange also recognized players for their off-field performances. Taylor Uhle earned the Leadership Award, Hayden Dalton the Bulldog Award, Grant Bustamante the Most Improved Player, and Elan Archambault, Nick Isernia, Logan Lucas and Gavin Fischer all were given the impact award.

4

The First Academy baseball team’s head coach Alan Kunkel took the helm of the program in June 2024. Two seasons later, he celebrated his 250th career win during TFA’s 3-2 win over Apopka High Wednesday, April 8. Last year, he led the baseball team to the Class 2A Regional Finals and now the team holds a 16-9 record. Kunkel came to TFA from the University of South Florida, where he served as the associate head coach and recruiting coordinator for the baseball team.

5

Two local high school boys weightlifting teams celebrated winning their respective district championships. Horizon High won the Class 3A Region 4 District 8 with its score of 58 in traditional and second place in olympic with 56, just two points behind the leader. The First Academy also won the 1A Region 6 District 11 championship with its score of 60 in olympic and second place in traditional with 43, just one point behind the leader. Horizon and TFA begin preparing for their regional competitions, which will begin Wednesday, April 22.

No time to tap

At 65 years old, Paul Laniosz picked up Brazilian jiu-jitsu. Twelve years later, he earned his black belt.

MEGAN BRUINSMA STAFF WRITER

In the early 2000s, Winter Garden resident Paul Laniosz was working in his hometown of Chicago as an asphalt contractor. He watched UFC fights with his friends and coworkers.

Laniosz became fascinated with the fighters’ abilities, the way they navigated each match and moved their bodies. So much so that he wanted to learn to do it himself.

At 65 years old, Laniosz was ready to retire. He and his wife of 50 years moved to the Sunshine State, and there he found VI Levels Orlando, a mixed martial arts and fitness train-

ing center, which at the time was in Winter Garden but now is in Oakland.

Laniosz stepped in and never left.

Twelve years later, Laniosz celebrated earning his black belt in Gracie jiu-jitsu Saturday, Feb. 7. A month later he celebrated his 77th birthday Wednesday, March 18.

“I’m really proud of it,” he said. “It’s mine. When I got the belt, I was kind of in shock and wasn’t thinking (the ceremony) was going to be as organized and accomplished. I got it, and I think I went home and I put the belt on two times, three times. I’d take it off and put it back on. My wife said, ‘Just don’t go to sleep with it on.’”

His accomplishment completed his 20-plus-year dream and finally earned him something that was “his.”

At 77, Laniosz has plenty of other accomplishments. He had two businesses, worked as a broker in the futures markets, and afterward, became an asphalt contractor. He has been married for 50 years, and he and his wife had two daughters, whom Laniosz helped put through college, buy new cars and celebrate both of their marriages.

Success has been the foundation of his life, but he always has craved an accomplishment for himself.

Earning the black belt validated he could do something on his own, which has become a point of pride.

He also is proud of himself for sticking with it and showing others

Freshman trio, new coach rejuvenates Olympia baseball

Olympia High’s baseball team is a winning program again, posting a 10-9 record this year thanks to four newcomers and a preseason battle for chicken wings.

JUSTICE COVERT CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Before his first year as the head baseball coach at Olympia High School, Kyle Blum and the team set a goal of finishing with a winning record, looking to bounce back from last year’s season. They accomplished the feat — but not without vital contributions from three freshmen and the promise of chicken wings.   When Blum arrived to coach the team in the fall, he was looking for ways to bring the players together. He said the fall is the players’ growth period. At that time, the Titans played 12 games against other teams, with a primary focus on improving their play without the pressure of wins or losses. In the final week, they didn’t

have a scheduled opponent, which spawned a friendly competition: the wing series.

A good-natured contest pitting teammates against one another resulted in a bond that has boosted the team from an 11-18 record last year to a 10-9 record this year, with three freshmen starters helping lead the team into the district tournament as a No. 4 seed and future seasons.

LET THEM EAT WINGS

Blum said he took the idea for the wing series from his time as a player at Presentation College; it was something the coaches used to motivate the team in the offseason.

In the wing series, a three-game intrasquad series, senior captains

Dr. Phillips High junior sprinter Peyton Castell sets sights on reaching the podium in states once again. Page 10A.

Photo by Megan Bruinsma

Paul Laniosz has accomplished his decades-old dream of learning jiu-jitsu and has remained dedicated to the craft for 12 years, earning his black belt.

Photo by Justice Covert

Freshmen starters catcher Daniel Diaz, pitcher Maven Leman and second baseman Eduardo Blanco were a driving force behind Olympia’s 10-9 season this year.

Peyton Castell

As a freshman in high school, Dr. Phillips High girls track-and-field athlete Peyton Castell reached the State Championships and placed 13th in the 200-meter dash and 16th in the 100-meter dash. She returned to states her sophomore year but improved to sixth in the 100m and seventh in the 200m. Now as a junior, Castell is sprinting toward her third consecutive states appearance. Most recently, Castell recorded a 12.40 time in the 100m and 25.06 in the 200m, and captured first in both events at the Windermere Friday Night Lights Friday, March 27. Her personal record is 11.89 in the 100m and 24.14 in the 200m.

What do you enjoy most about track?

What I enjoy most about track, as a sprinter, is the purity of the challenge. It’s just me, the lane and the clock. Sprinting forces me to be fully present and fully accountable. Every hundredth of a second reflects my preparation, my discipline and my ability to execute under pressure.

When did you start track, and why did you join?

I started running track when I was 7 years old. At first, it was just something I was naturally good at, but the more I trained, the more I realized how much I enjoyed the discipline and the challenge. Over time, it became more than just speed — I began to enjoy the competitive energy.

How would you describe yourself as a teammate?

I’d describe myself as a team player who brings energy, accountability and support to the group. Whether it was stepping up in relays, helping younger sprinters with technique or

THE BASICS

Age: 17

Grade: Junior School: Dr. Phillips High Sport: Track and field

with themselves and trust the process. Sprinting and track in general take time. Your form, your strength and your confidence all build gradually. You won’t see every improvement right away, but the work always shows up eventually.

If you were a coach, what speech would you give the team?  Always show up with purpose, compete with heart and trust your training. You don’t have to be the fastest today; you just have to be better than you were yesterday.

If you could pick a different sport, what would it be?  Volleyball, because I love the combination of teamwork, energy and constant movement that the sport demands.

Who do you look up to the most?  I look up to my parents the most because they’ve shown me what hard work, resilience and character look like in real life. They don’t just talk about values; they live them. They’ve always pushed me to be my best but also supported me when things got tough. That balance of high expectations and unconditional support is something I really admire. They’ve taught me the importance of discipline, staying humble and treating people with respect. Where would you want to live if you weren’t in Florida?

I would like to live in Los Angeles, California. LA has this unique mix of creativity and ambition that pushes people to grow. Whether it’s sports, academics or career goals, the city attracts people who are driven, and being in that environment motivates me

What future career do you want

My future career goals are to earn a full scholarship to an SEC school, run track professionally and eventually compete in the Olympics and win gold medals. I also plan to earn a degree in physical therapy, so I can become a sports physical therapist and stay connected to athletics even after my competitive career.

If you had to pick a spirit animal, which would you

If I had to pick a spirit animal, I’d choose a cheetah. Not just because it’s the fastest animal but because of the qualities behind its speed. Cheetahs are explosive, focused and efficient. They don’t waste energy and when it’s time to move, they commit fully. That’s exactly how I approach sprinting.

What jersey number would you pick and why?  The number 13 is special to me because it represents strength, confidence and standing out. A lot of people see 13 as an unlucky number, but I like that. It makes the number feel bold and different, almost like a reminder to embrace things that others might

MEGAN BRUINSMA

77-year-old earns Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9A

that anything is possible no matter your age.

“It tells people that there’s no magic,” he said. “There’s no secret. You don’t come in here and learn a secret way and then you’re a tough fighter. There’s no such thing. You have to put in the time and the effort. You’re going to get frustrated. You’re going to walk out that door.”

Laniosz walked out of the door 10 times. Each time he said, “I quit. I’m done. I’m too old.”

But every time he returned the next day for his training. Laniosz trains at VI Levels Mondays and Wednesdays, and sometimes Fridays. He’s been following that schedule for 12 years, slowly building upon his foundation to reach the black belt. He is the oldest student that trains there.

John Burke, gym owner and Laniosz’s coach, said Laniosz could have used a bunch of excuses. He could have said he’s older, what are the chances against the 30-year-old and 40-year-old students?

“Think about how easy it would be for him to say, ‘I’m 70-something; what are the odds?” Burke said. “He didn’t. He (dived) into the pool head-first, and he didn’t even check to see if it was filled with water.”

Laniosz dived in because of his intense desire to accomplish his dream. His journey began when he was on a walk around his neighborhood.

PERFECT FIT

When Laniosz moved to Florida, he went on a walk and happened to run into Burke’s wife. She was a neighbor he hadn’t met before, and the two began a conversation. Through their first interaction, she told Laniosz that Burke was opening an MMA school.

So Laniosz took a stroll down there and met the man who would guide his jiu-jitsu journey.

He popped into the center that was under construction from moving from Ocoee to Winter Garden in 2014. He offered a helping hand but also told Burke he was interested in fighting.

Burke recalled their initial conversation. Laniosz shared his desire to begin fighting but thought he was too old. Burke refuted that and told Laniosz “there’s no such thing” as too old; anyone at any age can learn how to defend themselves.

Like that, Laniosz stepped in.

He briefly had attended two MMA gyms in Chicago, but it only lasted about a week each time because it was too tiring to fight after a full day of construction work.

This time, it stuck.

Burke said the hardest belt to earn in jiu-jitsu is the white belt, the first one. The hardest part is taking that first step and committing to continue, but once that hurdle is crossed, anything is possible — especially with a dedicated coach.

“John is unique,” Laniosz said. “He was there at the beginning with the Gracies (the family that developed and popularized Brazilian jiu-jitsu) in California. He was trained by the top people in jiujitsu, he was part of the group, so he had a unique ability of knowing everything correctly.”

Jiu-jitsu can’t be learned by watching a video, Laniosz said. People can’t expect to watch a DVD or watch a UFC fight and “You learn when you’re on the mat and somebody’s choking you or someone’s on top of you or

someone’s grabbing you,” he said.

“That’s where you’re learning.”

That’s exactly what Burke taught him. And how to strategically fight.

OVERCOMING EGO

Burke, at 51 years old and training for 34 years, is teaching himself how to fight differently to accommodate his age. He also has applied those lessons in how he teaches Laniosz.

As people age, their reaction time or their strength might change, which is why Burke taught Laniosz to fight strategically.

The biggest problem Laniosz faced was breathing. There would be instances where he was trying to catch his breath and muster his last bits of strength to get out from under someone who was 30 or 40 years old and crushing him.

“I’m holding my breath and trying to use some strength to get out,” he said. “I want to get out, and I can’t. That’s where John says, ‘You got to let loose and relax and think of where you’re at and what you were taught.’”

Everyone has a unique fighting style. Laniosz and Burke have separate styles, and the journey is finding what works for each person’s body.

Two weeks ago at practice, Laniosz was learning a lockdown on a person, but he couldn’t do it. No matter how hard he tried to flip the other person and roll, he couldn’t. He didn’t have the strength or the stature or the flexibility. So he adapted.

Rather than flipping his legs over his head, Laniosz’s coach taught him to wiggle out of it. He then had the move down.

He learned how to accept feedback and not let the most challenge part of jiu-jitsu — ego — stop him.

“I’m older than all the young people in this class,” Laniosz said. “I didn’t like being in class being told that I have to improve this or I have to improve that and I’m getting lazy. … Then I got motivated to start pushing it better and better, and you don’t notice you’re improving in jiu-jitsu until someone tells you.” Every time Laniosz was knocked down, he got back up. In the moments he was down because of his age, he’d stand back up and push himself to become a fighter who Burke would put money on against the average bear.

“Paul wanted to get it so badly that it made him such a pleasure to have on the mat,” Burke said. “He couldn’t have had really any more desire to get it.”

“Think about how easy it would be for him to say, ‘I’m 70-something; what are the odds?” Burke said. “He didn’t. He (dived) into the pool head-first, and he didn’t even check to see if it was filled with water.”

Photo by Megan Bruinsma

Paul Laniosz and John Burke have grown together in the past 12 years. Laniosz’s dedication to join jiu-jitsu at 65 years old has inspired Burke.

John Burke Owner, VI Levels Orlando

Foundation Academy recognized all its seniors at the meet. Landen Woods, who competed in shot put, was happy to celebrate with his family.

FHigh School, 89

Legacy High School, 49

Titans split the first two games, the series went to a third, and Blum said it became a little chippy. The highlight of the finale was when an unsuspecting player became the hero. Freshman pitcher Thomas Dee, who hasn’t started at the varsity level, came into a two-out jam with the game and the chicken wings on the line. Faced against a junior on the team, Blum said he struck him out.

“The elation was ridiculous,” Blum said. “They say it’s about the wings, but it’s more of they like to rub it in each other’s faces. I think that’s something that these guys will remember for a long time.”

It was a unique experience for every player on the roster, but it was especially impactful to the team’s three freshman starters: catcher Daniel

oundation Academy hosted its Lions Last Chance Meet Friday, April 10. In total, eight teams competed, and the local schools competing included Foundation, The First Academy and Legacy High School.

The meet was the last opportunity for local trackand-field athletes to showcase their talents before district

meets that began Tuesday, April 14, and run until Saturday, April 25.

The Lions blew the competition out of the water, with the girls and boys teams both winning overall. Foundation also recognized its class of seniors, and they all walked the field hand-in-hand with family.

— MEGAN BRUINSMA

it

Diaz, second baseman Eduardo Blanco and pitcher Maven Leman. Since the wing series, the three starters have been pillars for the team this season.

Diaz led the team in nearly every hitting statistic this season. He posted a .440 batting average, .547 on-base percentage and a .660 slugging percentage, totaling 13 RBIs and 22 hits, including four doubles, two triples and a home run. His batting average and slugging percentage were each the second-highest in the district.

Blum said there are very few high school catchers a coach would let call a game and lead an infield’s defense; Diaz is one of them.

Diaz attributed his success in the batter’s box to the time he spent following his biometrics and working out in the gym to increase his strength.

When he stands in to bat, though, he just focuses on staying level-headed.

“I don’t take it too seriously,” Diaz said. “I go up there not thinking too much, keep it simple and just go out there and hit the ball.”

Lions sweep Last Chance Meet

The First Academy and Foundation Academy runners sprinted against each other in the 4x800m. Foundation ended in second with a time of 9:18.61 and TFA in third with a time of 9:27.83.

Right: The girls kicked off the 4x800m relay race at the meet and carefully passed the baton to each other. The First Academy won with a time of 11:19.14.

For Blanco, success at the plate didn’t come as quickly. He didn’t record a hit in his first five starts on varsity. In the last four games of the regular season, though, Blanco went 3-for-9 at the plate, totaling three RBIs and a double, managing a strong end to his regular season.

Blum described Blanco similarly to a firecracker, a teammate who already is positive, but when he gets a big hit or makes a strong defensive play, his energy is infectious.

“Eddie is a pick-me-up guy; he sees somebody down, he’s jumping on them,” Blum said. “Even when he was not starting, he’s just that positive guy in the dugout.”

Described as a “silent assassin” by Blum, Leman’s contribution was establishing himself as one of Olympia’s aces this season, along with junior pitcher Kingston Ebanks. Leman’s 1.11 ERA was the lowest on the Titans’ pitching staff, and his four wins were tied for the most in the district. He said his older brother, Natas, a senior pitcher on the team, helped make it possible.

“Through the years, he’s always watched my bullpens, telling me

what’s wrong,” Maven Leman said about his brother. “It’s been fun to be able to play one season with him.”

Playing baseball since he was 3 years old, Leman originally played catcher but transitioned to pitcher. He said he likes it more because he gets to “dominate” from the mound.

LESSONS LEARNED

It took until the final regular-season game for Olympia to clinch its preseason goal of a winning record. The Titans beat the Freedom Patriots 7-1 Friday, April 10, to finish 10-9. The team’s play was streaky to that point, starting 7-3 before losing five in a row.

The Titans turned it around to cap the season, though, winning three of their last four games and scoring at least seven runs in each of the victories.

Blum said when the team’s performance was going right, the Titans were playing “ultimate team baseball.”

During the losses, it was the opposite.

“The on-field results have been up and down, but we’ve grown throughout the year tremendously,” Blum said.

“We’re an extremely young team, and it’s only brighter as it gets younger. We’re going to be, for the next four or

five years, growing and growing and growing, and it’s just awesome where we’re at right now.”

The three freshmen were each happy with how the season went but were quick to acknowledge more work needs to be done. Diaz wants to finish next season with a batting average over .500, Leman plans to improve with more live at-bats in the offseason, and Blanco is looking to increase his on-base percentage and steal more bases.

They agree avoiding selfish baseball will be key to staying more consistent next season.

“Every player on this team is talented, but when the team comes together, plays together, then it’s a whole different thing,” Leman said.

Blum couldn’t be more thankful to have such a trio of players. He said having a mix of youth, leadership and talent brings a coach a level of comfort for years to come.

“It’s been a fun ride,” Leman said of his first year playing for Blum. “Especially for all of us as three freshmen and his first year at the school, we’re all just getting closer and it’s just improving from here.”

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OF THE WEEK

INFLUENCER

JASON MORRISON

SUMMERLAKE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Jason Morrison is the custodial crew leader for the custodial staff at Summerlake Elementary School.

Morrison ensures the school is divided into manageable sections for each custodian to take care of, and he conducts walkthroughs to ensure classrooms, bathrooms and hallways all are up to standard. He is responsible for fixing anything when it breaks as well as keeping inventory of soap, paper towels, cleaning agents and place orders before the school runs out. He manages and cleans spills to keep everyone at the school healthy and safe. The cafeteria is sanitized and reset quickly between grade-level lunch blocks thanks to Morrison and his team.

Morrison was Support Person of the Year at Summerlake Elementary in 2022, and he also has received the Golden Gator Award. He also has earned his certificate from the Florida Plant Management School Association.

“Jason Morrison makes an extraordinary impact at Summerlake Elementary,” Principal Delaine Bender said. “As our custodial crew leader, he has been a dedicated member of the Summerlake family since the school opened in 2020. Jason is an exceptional individual who leads with positivity and professionalism. Always wearing a smile, he approaches every task with a strong customer service mindset and a self-starter attitude.

“Jason sets and upholds impeccable standards of cleanliness and organization, inspiring his team to take pride in their work,” Bender said. “He leads by example, never hesitating to step in wherever help is needed. With patience and care, he ensures his crew is well-trained and confident in maintaining the highest standards. Summerlake is incredibly proud of Jason — not only for the outstanding work he does but for the remarkable person he is. He is truly a gem to our school community.”

What brought you to your school?

What brought me to Summerlake was that since I moved from Orlando to a different area that was closer to Summerlake, I decided to apply for this position when the school opened in 2020.

What do you love most about your school?

I love the friendly environment and all of the staff are so caring.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

One of the most rewarding parts of my job is when a student walks up to me and tells me that their classroom is so clean.

What would you be if you weren’t in this profession?

I would probably be an auto mechanic or a plumber.

REPORT CARD

Years at school: Six

Years with OCPS: 10

Who influences you?

I have more than one influence, but my biggest one is my principal, Ms. Bender. She models working hard and is always on top of projects.

What was your favorite teacher when you were in school? Why?

My favorite teacher was Ms. Davis, because she always took her time out to help me with things that I did not understand.

What is your favorite children’s book and why?

“Little Red Riding Hood” because it was interesting and exciting.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

In my spare time, I like to ride my bike along the trail, listen to music and work on my car.

If you could dine with any famous person, past or present, who would it be and why?

Rihanna because she is a great singer.

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

It would have to be to make everyone keep the environment clean.

If you could only listen to three bands or artists, who would they be and why?

Rihanna, Bob Marley and Sting because their music is interesting and it puts it me in a good mood.

What was your go-to favorite snack as an elementary student? Nutri-Cake.

What is your favorite holiday and why?

Christmas because it brings the family together, and we celebrate the birth of Christ.

Who was your best friend when you were in school and why? Are you still in touch?

My best friend in school was Shane and, yes, we still talk.

What were your extracurricular activities as a student?

We didn’t have any extracurricular activities at my school, but after school with my friends, I would play soccer, table tennis and volleyball.

What is a fun fact about yourself that would surprise people? I like cooking.

— LIZ RAMOS

OBSERVER SCHOOL ZONE

Warriors have a ball

West Orange High School seniors sprayed each other with a hose as they slid down the water slide, while others raced through an inflatable obstacle course, before tumbling out the other side and the winner cheering for joy.

The activities all were a part of West Orange High’s 2026 Field Day.  Seniors enjoyed spending time together in the sun, rather than sitting in class for sixth and seventh period. In the lawn of West Orange was pickleball, spikeball nets and soccer balls. They were treated with in-house made cotton candy, shaved ice and snacks.

— MEGAN BRUINSMA

Groups of West Orange’s seniors came together to celebrate their accomplishments.

Rayna Lynch and Nora Ortiz played soccer together as they enjoyed a break from school for the day.

Left: Thalia Rodriguez tumbled out of the obstacle course as she raced her friend, Yanellie Mendez.

Below: Bella Aveyard, Dania Neita, Reya Popat, Lindsay Gato and Maria Lobo enjoyed the cotton candy and company at Field Day.

THE WAYS WE WERE FROM THE WINTER GARDEN HERITAGE FOUNDATION

1946: 80 years ago

J.N. McCord is a poultry enthusiast and said he had sold 50,000 baby chicks since opening his business in Winter Garden a few months prior.

Alma McCord resigned her position at First National Bank to keep books for her husband’s business, McCord’s Feed Store.

1961: 65 years ago

The new Lakeview High School track was provided through the efforts of many members of the Winter Garden Rotary Club. Among those at the dedication were George Howard, Sam Hovsepian, George Daniel, L.W. Iserman and Ward Britt.

1966: 60 years ago

New officers of the West Orange Memorial Hospital Auxiliary are Billie Davis, president; Rubie Roper, vice president; Elizabeth Maguire, publicity chair and president-elect; Mrs. Raymond J. Friss, recording secretary; Mrs. Ralph A. Sims, corresponding secretary; and Dorothy Wurst, treasurer.

1976: 50 years ago

L.A. Grimes Realtor, 34 E. Plant St., listed rentals in Ocoee: a two-bedroom place with a sun porch and eat-in kitchen for $185 monthly; a three-bedroom with a screened porch and fenced rear for $185 per month; and a three-bedroom home with a den and drapes for $200 monthly.

Cappleman Agency Inc., 60 W. Plant St., had listed a three-bedroom, one-bath home in Oakland situated on 10 lots. The garage had a workshop with full bath; the house featured a small cellar, large rooms (some with paneling), two porches, a patio with barbecue and many shade trees for $34,500.

Baseball’s spring training has come to an end, and the season now is in full swing. In the 1950s, professional ball players posed in front of Pounds Motor Company on the southeast corner of Plant Street and Lakeview Avenue in Winter Garden. These athletes were in town to hone their skills at a baseball school that was hosted at Walker Field on Park Avenue. The Washington Senators organization would fly in players from its major league team, as well as its minor league team, the Chattanooga Lookouts, to play scrimmage matches against one another.

Baseball has a long history in the area, with the earliest organized teams emerging in the early 1900s, including at the Oakland-Winter Garden High School. Later in the century, local teams from across the Central Florida region would play against each other, generating much discussion about exciting victories, dramatic defeats and unusual plays in West Orange County.

The mission of the Winter Garden Heritage Foundation is to preserve the heritage and architecture of Winter Garden while creating new cultural experiences. The Foundation also preserves the material culture of West Orange County, using it to educate the area’s youth on the community’s rich history.

1996: 30 years ago

Carolyn Cappleman was approved by the Orange County School Board to serve as associate superintendent for elementary education services. Her new responsibilities included the supervision of overall operations of all 88 elementary schools in Orange County.

Dr. Phillips High School’s Theatre Arts Magnet Program presented “From the Mississippi Delta,” an autobiographical play written by Dr. Endesha Ida Mae Holland. Among

the cast members were Patricia McGregor, Abiya Beales, Mufyn Watts and LaVon Bracy.

2006: 20 years ago

West Orange Habitat for Humanity held an appreciation dinner at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church for William “Bill” Criswell. The event honored his accomplishments during his term as president. Presenters for the evening were Habitat officials Jerry Van Dyke, Marcia Praysner, Jesse Green and Nick

Shannin, as well as former Oakland Mayor Jon VanderLey. The Dr. Phillips Rotary Club began a huge campaign to raise funds to enhance the Southwest Library. Improvements would include a redesign and beautification of the interior of the entryway and a major renovation of the children’s area. The club hoped to raise $30,000; the Orange County Library System had pledged 100% in matching funds.

THROWBACK THURSDAY

MARCH 30, 1945

Once upon a time, all you had to do to find the phone number or address of someone was to look up him or her in the telephone directory, an alphabetical catalogue or residents and businesses in the area. Every household or company with a telephone was sure to have one of these thick books handy. The West Orange News ran an advertisement placed by the Florida Telephone Corporation announcing the deadline was nearing to make any listing additions or changes in the next edition of the phone directory. Folks were prompted to call 267 immediately.

Celebrity Cipher cryptograms are created from quotations by famous people, past and present. Each letter in the cipher stands for another.

“IYV APW CU LNAZ NW JSNLNG, ONWMWUJJ, RYHU PWM PRR GZYJU GZNWBJ GZPG IYV APW’G SVG P MYRRPL JNBW YW.” MYRRI SPLGYW

“ZNSMS RT KXIB KXS ZNRXU RX ZNS EKMIP EKMTS ZNYX GSRXU ZYIOSP YGKWZ, YXP ZNYZ RT XKZ GSRXU ZYIOSP YGKWZ.” KTVYM ERIPS

“OFM AFXH GFNLKGZ CLHG OFM JKZLN JFQ I PIMXH ... KG DO DKGT NLH AFXHQX IQH NLFXH CLF TFG’N LIWH I PIMXH NLHO PIQH IUFMN.” DMLIDDIT IAK

TALKING NONSENSE by Pam Klawitter, edited by Jared Goudsmit

By Luis Campos

redpages@orangeobserver.com

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