Talking up a storm
The Winter Garden Heritage Foundation held a special reception Thursday, May 1, to debut its new exhibition, “Tempests and Tornadoes,” which proves Florida isn’t always all sunshine. In addition to the sunny beach days, Florida — and West Orange County — has been subjected to freezing temperatures, hurricanes and fatal tornadoes. All of this and more are chronicled in the heritage museum’s exhibition room. The exhibition will remain on display through June 30. — AMY QUESINBERRY PRICE
COUNTY LEVEL
Orange commissioners approve Waterside at Hamlin apartments
The project will add 113 apartments to the Horizon West community.
MICHAEL ENG EDITOR AND PUBLISHER
The Orange County Commission on April 22 unanimously approved a plan to add 113 apartments to Horizon West.
The Waterside at Hamlin project sits on 19.27 acres (10.78 developable) north of Summerlake Park Boulevard, south of New Independence Parkway, east of Hamlin Groves Trail and west of Ficquette Road.
The four approved waivers include decreasing the setback from the Normal High Water Elevation from 50 feet to 35 feet; decreasing the NHWE setback for parking, paving and pool from 20 feet to 5 feet; decreasing the building separation from 20 feet to 15 feet; and a waiver to decrease the link-to-node ratio requirement from 1.35 to 1.
During discussion, District 1 County Commissioner Nicole Wilson asked for clarification regarding the waiver requests to the high water setbacks.
“This is … very close to the area in Reams (Road),” she said. “This is not a wet area but very close to the area in Reams that we’ve had so many concerns with flooding.”
Jim Willard, attorney for applicant Scott Gentry, Kelly Collins & Gentry Inc, said the waivers are needed because of the odd shape of the land coupled with the requirements of framework streets within Hamlin Town Center.
“We have an irregularly shaped piece of frontage on (Lake Hancock) and an irregular location of the normal high water line,” he said. “There’s probably about 1,000 feet of frontage here.”
Willard said there are two locations where the project encroaches on the normal high water setback. One includes about a 7-foot encroachment with one apartment unit, and a second includes a 13-foot encroachment where the community clubhouse is planned.
“This is … very close to the area in Reams (Road),” she said. “This is not a wet area but very close to the area in Reams that we’ve had so many concerns with flooding.” — District 1 County Commissioner Nicole Wilson
IN OTHER NEWS
n The commission on April 8 unanimously approved an amendment to the Silverleaf Planned Development, located south of Silver Grove Boulevard and west of Avalon Road in Horizon West. The amendment includes a waiver to allow a mechanical unit side setback of zero feet (instead of 2 feet) from the property line.
n Commissioners on April 8 unanimously approved amending the Municipal Service Benefit Units for the maintenance of retention ponds and street lighting in Summerlake Reserve (41 lots). The estimated assessment for establishing the MSBU for maintenance of retention ponds is $78 per lot, per year, and $108 per lot, per year for the street lighting MSBU. The amended MSBUs are effective Nov. 1, 2025.
n Commissioners on April 8 unanimously approved amending the Municipal Service Benefit Units for the maintenance of retention ponds and street lighting in Waterleigh Phase 5 (286 lots). The estimated assessment for the establishing the MSBU for maintenance of retention ponds is $78 per lot, per year, and $136 per lot, per year for the street lighting MSBU. The amended MSBUs are effective Nov. 1, 2025.
“All the other locations … are in excess of the 50-foot setback,” Willard said. “In fact, the average setback is approximately … 64 feet. We also have an 8-foot retaining wall, so the issue isn’t one of flooding or water safety. It’s more the fact that the Normal High Water Elevation varies in and out in an odd way. And to accommodate the framework streets that are required to be done in Hamlin … the buildings are laid out in a somewhat rectangular fashion. … Frankly, we didn’t need the full relief from 50 feet to 35 feet across the board. We only need it for those two buildings that encroach just a few feet into the 50-foot setback.”
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Meteorologist Tom Sorrells, second from right, spoke to attendees at the WGHF’s opening night reception of “Tempests and Tornadoes.” With him are curator Will McCoy, left, director of operations and programming Jim Crescitelli and executive director Kristi Karst Gomen.
Longtime residents understanding the importance of the smudge pot, which saved many orange groves during freezing temperatures.
An aerial map shows the 1998 tornado’s path of destruction through Winter Garden. Just above the bottom arrow is Dillard Street and Toole’s Ace Hardware.
The West Orange Times produced a book of photos after the 1998 tornado that ripped through Winter Garden.
Young thespians to stage ‘Les Misérables’
LIZ RAMOS
SENIOR EDITOR
When Alizeica Gaspar-Smith joined Young Star Musical Theatre in 2020, she was in need of an audition song.
Lexy Shepherd-Cizek, theater director, suggested she sing “I Dreamed a Dream” from “Les Misérables.”
Gaspar-Smith went on to sing the song for several auditions, at least three showcases and theater district competitions for her school. But she said she had never seen “Les Misérables” and didn’t know anything about the popular musical.
This weekend, Gaspar-Smith will sing “I Dreamed a Dream” not as an audition song but rather as Fantine as Young Star Musical Theatre performs “Les Misérables School Edition” at Dillard Street Theatre.
“I always knew it was a really sad song, but because I’m actually playing the character, I know I can do the song justice better than I ever could have done beforehand,” GasparSmith said.
PERFORMANCE TO REMEMBER
Shepherd-Cizek said Young Star Musical Theatre usually produces performances that are “high-dancing, colorful and flashy,” but with a group of strong and talented performers in the YSMT Company, which consists of students 13 years and older, Shepherd-Cizek wanted to be able to show off their talents.
“Les Misérables School Edition” gave students an opportunity to learn the dynamics of a serious, more classic and darker themed musical, she said.
For the first time, Young Star conducted virtual auditions for “Les Misérables School Edition,” which allowed more people to audition. Out of about 120 people who auditioned, Shepherd-Cizek said the cast
IF YOU GO
“LES MISÉRABLES
SCHOOL EDITION”
WHEN: 7 p.m. May 8-10 and May 16-17; 2 p.m. May 10 and May 17
WHERE: Dillard Street Theater, 67 S. Dillard St., Winter Garden TICKETS: $15 to $30
WEBSITE: iloveysmt.simpletix. com
consists of at least 60 students, with many being new to the theater company.
The company decided to doublecast some roles and even have as many as four students playing a role to allow more individuals to participate in the musical.
“We believe everyone should have a chance to be a part of it,” ShepherdCizek said. “We call them ‘tracks’ instead of cast, so we have four different tracks that rotate through so not only do they learn their lead part, but they’ll also learn the ensemble part and switch so they support their opposite leads in the ensemble.”
With many of the cast having never seen or heard “Les Misérables” before, Shepherd-Cizek said it was interesting to see the cast grow to understand the story as rehearsals progressed.
“It was beautiful to hear all of their voices kind of unite in this show that is about unity and family,” she said.
Carter Jacobi, who plays both Jean Valjean and Marius, said the more he learned about the show, the more he fell in love with it. He now listens to the songs and their instrumental versions from the musical in his spare time. The historical aspects of the musical also piqued his interest.
“You throw in my love for history, you throw in a great story with incredible music, and I just get a show that’s probably my favorite show I’ve ever known,” Jacobi said.
The musical has given students an
opportunity to step out of their shells, embrace leading roles and find new passions. Jacobi wasn’t interested in musicals until his former basketball trainer had him volunteer for Young Star to teach the cast members of “High School Musical” how to play basketball. He was introduced to theater then, and after he injured his back and couldn’t play anymore, theater filled the void as he discovered his new passion.
Now as Jean Valjean, Jacobi is driving the show. He said for many of the cast members, their characters are different versions of themselves offstage.
“When it’s at rehearsals and we’re backstage, we’re all having fun, talking, laughing and making jokes,” Jacobi said. “But when it’s (on stage), it’s like our alter egos all come out. We’re like different people, and I love that feeling of being my alter ego. I love getting into that character.”
Nate Childers, who plays Enjolras, said he had to audition for “Les Misérables School Edition” because it’s rare for high school students to have the opportunity to perform a musical classic such as “Les Misérables.” On top of that, he will perform with his best friends, who he considers brothers.
“It’s the hardest show ever written,” Childers said of “Les Misérables.”
“Why wouldn’t I? I wanted to take that on with my friends, and I wanted to have that experience and put on a kick-butt show.”
He said he uses his personal experiences and appreciation for his friends to bring the emotions of Enjolras, a leader in the musical, to the stage.
“It’s a role that very easily could fall flat, but I love adding so much depth to it that it doesn’t,” Childers said. “Getting to be there with my friends and be on the barricade, getting to fight with my friends and, in the end, spoilers, but turning around and seeing them all dead, it just breaks my heart on stage. It makes me shed a real tear on stage just like, ‘Wow, I feel
/ Michael Eng, meng@OrangeObserver.com
Design Editor / Jessica Eng, jeng@OrangeObserver.com
Senior Editor / Liz Ramos, lramos@OrangeObserver.com
Community Editor / Amy Quesinberry Price, amyq@OrangeObserver.com
Sports Editor / Sam Albuquerque, sama@OrangeObserver.com
Multimedia Sales Manager / Cyndi Gustafson, advertising@OrangeObserver.com
Multimedia Advertising Executive / Iggy Collazo, iggy@OrangeObserver.com
Graphic Designer / Sarah Santiago, ssantiago@OrangeObserver.com
Advertising Operations Manager / Allison Brunelle, abrunelle@OrangeObserver.com
CONTACT
this.’ It’s such an amazing role to get to play with your brothers, your best friends.”
Childers, Gaspar-Smith and Jacobi all said Young Star is like family, and they consider Dillard Street Theatre a home away from home.
The cast for “Les Misérables School Edition” has embraced newcomers to the theater company to support each other as they take on the challenging music and emotions of the musical.
ADDING TO A LEGACY
“Les Misérables School Edition” is Shepherd-Cizek and her mother, Shmaine Shepherd’s, favorite musical.
“We really enjoyed getting to bring a story that we love to kids who had never listened to it or watched it,” Shepherd-Cizek said.
Shepherd-Cizek is the third generation to run Young Star Musical Theatre. Her grandmother, Barbara Shepherd, started the theater company, and it was passed down to her mother until Shepherd-Cizek decided to join.
Last summer, Shepherd-Cizek and the volunteers for Dillard Street Theatre worked to renovate the 108-year-old building. The theater houses a 105-seat theater, a dance studio room, costume racks and a large dressing room.
As a small theater company, Shepherd-Cizek said having her own theater is a dream come true.
“It’s great to have our own space, because we can offer so much more to our kids,” she said. “A lot of people put a lot of work into the building and there’s still a lot to be done but getting to see it come to fruition has been a really big accomplishment for a company that has been in my family since before I was even born.”
Young Star Musical Theatre started in Florida after the company moved in 2018 from California with 11 students. Now the program has more than 200 students registered throughout the year as well as a summer camp.
Shepherd-Cizek has seen some of her students grow up in the program, achieving milestones, and some of them have seen her achieve milestones including getting married and having a daughter.
“It’s a really cool thing getting to impact them in their lives and in their future,” she said.
The West Orange Times meets the legal requirements to publish legal and public notices in Orange County per F.S. 50.011 USPS Periodicals
WEST ORANGE TIMES
Photos courtesy of Matt Immler
Nate Childers loved being able to perform in a musical like “Les Misérables School Edition” with his friends, who he considers brothers.
Right: Kinsley Kern played a young Cosette. Many of the roles are performed by various students to give more individuals an opportunity to be in the musical.
Grace Godette brought Fantine to the stage.
Celebrating Ocoee’s Centennial
2015-2025
n
AMY QUESINBERRY PRICE
COMMUNITY EDITOR
In its last decade, the city of Ocoee has experienced growth that extends beyond the construction of subdivisions and retail projects. It also has been a period of healing from a tragedy in the city’s past. What took place five years before Ocoee was incorporated has haunted the municipality for more than 100 years, but city officials have acknowledged the brutal incident and worked to mend the hurt to heal and move forward.
It was Nov. 2, 1920, Election Day, and members of Ocoee’s black community were either killed or run out of town by white supremacists who were trying to keep the community from voting. It would be known as the Ocoee Massacre, and for the next century, the city never officially acknowledged this dark period in its history.
In the 1920 census, Ocoee was home to 255 black residents; the 1930 census registered two.
After that, no black residents were identified in census records again until the mid-1970s.
A group of businessmen created the West Orange Reconciliation Task Force in 1989 to honor the memory of the lives lost in 1920.
This led to the formation of the Ocoee Human Relations Diversity Board, a group of volunteers whose objective was to promote understanding, respect, goodwill and equality among all citizens and businesses of Ocoee.
2018 and 2019 signified a turning point for Ocoee, when George Oliver III and Larry Brinson were the first two black residents elected to serve on the City Commission.
The city issued a formal proclamation in November 2018 expressing regret and horror at the events of November 1920, as well as its recognition of the event and the
CELEBRATING A CENTENNIAL
2025 marks a major milestone for the city of Ocoee as it celebrates its 100th anniversary of incorporation, which took place May 13, 1925. The city is hosting several centennial events this year, including two key events: n Centennial Celebration 5 to 10 p.m. May 9 — Join city officials for live entertainment, food, vendors and activities at Bill Breeze Park.
n Time Capsule Ceremony 6:30 p.m. May 13 — City officials will hold a special ceremony at the Withers-Maguire House to preserve a snapshot of the city for future generations.
For information about the centennial, visit 100yearsocoee.com/ historical-timeline. Residents taking photos during the centennial events are being encouraged to use the hashtag #100YearsOcoee when posting on social media.
city’s dedication to changing the community culture.
“Let it be known that Ocoee shall no longer be the sundown town but the sunrise city,” the proclamation read.
In addition, the HRDB planned a weeklong agenda, from Nov. 1 to 8, 2020, dedicated to programs and events to honor the lives lost 100 years prior while educating the public.
Mayor Rusty Johnson stood before a crowd on the final day and read the city’s formal apology.
“Today, Nov. 8, 2020, we, the elected officials of the city of Ocoee have chosen to invite each of you here to openly, publicly and sincerely admit, acknowledge and forever voice our displeasure over the inhumane acts of terror committed against the African American community of Ocoee,” Johnson said.
“Let us be clear and completely candid: Those of us gathered here today will forever bear testimony to the efforts of the city of Ocoee and its citizens to move forward into the future knowing that we are a culturally diverse, modern community with eyes set on a conscious unification.
“Therefore we, the elected officials of the city of Ocoee, Florida,
NOTABLE NEWS
2017: When James “Buddy” Elmore was hired by the city of Ocoee in 1972, the population was less than 4,000. When he retired — as the longest-serving employee — 34 years later from the Public Works Department, it was closer to 40,000. He was instrumental in bringing many of the safety programs to Ocoee when it had none.
2017: Scott Vandergrift, the longest-serving Ocoee mayor, died at age 77. He championed many causes in his hometown of Ocoee. His family described him as cantankerous, witty, eccentric and a beloved icon and said he died just as he lived — as a fighter and a legend. Vandergrift was an Ocoee city commissioner from 1967 to 1969 and mayor from 1973 to 1975 and again from 1992 to 2015. Vandergrift frequently was spotted driving his white Toyota Prius (his “mayor mobile”) and wearing his shirts, hats and ties that promoted his beloved city. He gave out butterfly pins and “get out of jail free” cards.
2019: Manheim Orlando, the nation’s second-largest used-car reconditioning center, opened its new state-of-the-art body shop and reconditioning center.
2020: Central Park was renamed Vandergrift Central Park in memory of the former mayor.
2021: Ocoee made a groundbreaking move by appointing Saima Plasencia as the city’s first female police chief.
do hereby and herewith officially extend to each and every member of the community of Ocoee, of 1920, and to each descendent both living today or deceased, our deepest apology for each and every atrocity that was committed against those individuals,” Johnson continued.
The week concluded with the unveiling of a historical marker at the southeast corner of Bill Breeze Park that recounts the events of Election Day 1920.
In 2024, the city of Ocoee unveiled a memorial at Unity Park to honor the lives disrupted and the lives lost in 1920, paying tribute to the individuals in the black community who called Ocoee home. The park is at 130 N. Cumberland Ave.
IMPROVED WORKPLACE
AT NEW CITY HALL
City employees moved into a new City Hall on Bluford Avenue closer to downtown McKey Street in 2022.
The three-story, 46,000-squarefoot facility features modern resources that support the city’s continued growth and development.
The first floor has the commission chambers and the service departments. The city clerk’s office and other administrative space is on the second floor. The commissioners’ offices and conference room are on the third floor.
Each floor has its own kitchen, dining area and conference room. And there is enough space for staff expansion in the future.
The facility was built with a health and wellness theme in mind. There are stand-up desks, an outdoor eating area for employees and water bottle fillers on every floor.
The conference rooms have the latest video conferencing technology, and the Ocoee TV and Commission Chambers have cuttingedge broadcasting equipment and capabilities. Those improvements make it easier to control and manage broadcasts during commission meetings.
City Hall is a central part of the city’s downtown redevelopment plan. The master plan includes more than $44 million capital projects that aim to enhance the public spaces in downtown Ocoee and some of the key infrastructure of the city.
2022: City officials broke ground on Healthy West Orange Wellness Park across from the Ocoee Police Department on South Bluford Avenue. The five-acre park features a half-mile trail and four wellness stations. A pavilion sits in the middle, connected to both sides of the trail by a boardwalk.
2022: Westyn Plaza, a new shopping center in Ocoee, opened with 10 stores offering everything from pizza, wine and tacos to haircuts, shopping services and insurance.
2022: Commissioners voted in favor of The Dynasty | Ocoee, a $1 billion, 159-acre regional sports and entertainment complex. It will be situated in the southeast corner of Ocoee-Apopka and Fullers Cross roads with more than a dozen sports fields and an indoor facility for mainly youth sports tournaments and other athletic events; a mixed-use pedestrian riverwalk lined with restaurant, retail and entertainment spaces; and two hotels that will offer a combined 1,100 rooms.
2023: Ocoee opened Action Sports Park, the city’s first skate park and pump track, at Vandergrift Central Park on Flewelling Avenue. It features street-style elements, including raps, stairs, rails, grind box, competition-level pump track and wall ride.
2023: Mattie “Jean” Grafton, the former city clerk who served her hometown of Ocoee for 30 years and was known for her love of laughter, family, fierce friendships and traveling the world, died at the age of 92. She was a lifelong resident of Ocoee and attended the original Ocoee High School, where she performed as a cheerleader, played on the girls basketball team and was named Miss Ocoee High School.
2023: Orange Technical College –West Campus broke ground near Ocoee High School. OTC moved from its original location in Winter Garden to the new campus, 2010 Ocoee-Apopka Road, in 2024.
2024: Vincent L. Ogburn Sr. marked a milestone as the city’s first black police chief.
In partnership with the city of Ocoee, the Observer is publishing a 10-week series examining each decade of the city’s history.
Amy Quesinberry Price
Above: Artist Shea Monahan was commissioned to paint the second centennial mural on a building in downtown Ocoee.
Courtesy of Orange County Regional History Center
Right: Julius “July” Perry was one of the dozens of black residents killed Nov. 2, 1920.
File photo
Ocoee Mayor Rusty Johnson took a seat behind his desk in the new Ocoee City Hall in 2022.
Ocoee PD spreads blanket for annual community picnic
AThe grand opening featured Wally Goose, Ocoee High School’s marching band and a hoagie-building battle between Ocoee Fire and Ocoee Police departments.
Ocoee’s Janelle Ramos had been waiting for a Wawa to open in Ocoee.
The day finally came Thursday, May 1. Ramos, a self-described obsessed Wawa fan, put on her Wawa headband, T-shirt and socks and waited in the growing line outside the gas station and convenient store’s new location on the corner of Clarke Road and West Colonial Drive.
The Ocoee Wawa celebrated its grand opening Thursday, May 1, giving free coffee and a free T-shirt to the first 100 people who entered the store.
“If I didn’t have mother responsibilities, I would have been the first in line,” Ramos said with a laugh. “My husband joked and asked if I was going to camp out.”
Ramos said she’s been Wawa’s biggest fan for at least seven years, when she walked into a Wawa for the first time and fell in love with it. She said it was the food, service, gas, deals and overall atmosphere that started her obsession.
“What is there not to love about Wawa?” Ramos said.
Her love for the gas station and convenience store chain runs so deep she helped her daughter get a job at the Wawa in Winter Garden.
By 7:45 a.m. Ramos, among dozens of other eager customers, were waiting in a line that started to wrap along the side of the store. They used the noisemakers they were given to make noise on beat as the Ocoee High School band brought an electric energy to the grand opening with its performance.
At 8 a.m., Ocoee’s Don Bedwell was the first to enter the store and receive his T-shirt and cup of coffee.
Bedwell was at Wawa by 7:10 a.m. and was the first in line.
“I’ve been waiting for this to open for months,” Bedwell said. “It’s clean, bright, the food tastes good, and it’s convenient.”
The store quickly filled as customers went straight to the coffee bar for their free cup or to the self-service stations to order their hot breakfast items. Others walked around to check out the rest of the convenience store.
“This was a great day and great time for us to fellowship with the community,” Ocoee Police Chief Vincent Ogburn said. “(This event) shows we’re approachable and we’re working with the community.”
— SAM ALBUQUERQUE
s part of its outreach and efforts to connect with the community, the Ocoee Police Department hosted residents for its annual picnic event from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. May 3 at Vandergrift Central Park. Along with interacting with Ocoee PD officers, picnic-goers were treated to free food, beverages and sweet treats; participated in the various games and activities; and even a few lucky locals took home prizes during the many raffles.
GOT SHORTI: Wawa celebrates grand opening in Ocoee
Once the barriers were taken down and the gas prices were lit on the signs outside, the gas pumps stayed busy as people went to fill their tanks.
Back outside, people who showed proof they had the Wawa app were able to spin a wheel to receive swag such as T-shirts, a Wally Goose stuffie and more.
Wally Goose, Wawa’s mascot, had a constant presence at the grand opening. He roamed the grounds to take photos with customers, Wawa employees, Ocoee High students and individuals with the Ocoee Fire and Police departments.
Sparky, of the Ocoee Fire Department, joined Wally.
Jamal Page, public relations and community care for Wawa, said it
felt great to open the new location in Ocoee.
“We’re glad to be in this community that we haven’t been in yet,” Page said. “We’re excited for the residents. (Seeing all these people) means we have committed customers to our company. We hope to provide a safe space filled with love, family and convenience with quality food.”
Addressing the more than 100 people who attended the grand opening, Ocoee Mayor Rusty Johnson encouraged Wawa to do even more in Ocoee.
“We’ve been waiting a long time for Wawa to come to our city,” he said. “Maybe someday, you’ll put another one out here.”
Wawa brought out the spirit of competition between the Ocoee Fire Department and Ocoee Police Department with its hoagie-building competition.
The smack talk and banter between the two departments began as soon as the instructions on how to make a Wawa hoagie were given.
Four representatives from each department came together to build hoagies.
In two minutes, the teams had to make as many hoagies as possible, with the team making the most claiming victory.
Ocoee Fire Department’s Battalion Chief Ken Henderson, Lt. Matt Jones, engineer Chris Atalski and firefighter AJ Horan were a welloiled machine as were Ocoee Police Department’s traffic officer Joshua Bode, patrol officers Sara Vicente and Sara Swarthout and Chief of Police Vincent Ogburn.
It was a constant back-and-forth as each team finished a hoagie.
Cheese was sticking together, lettuce was flying, and the crowd was invested. While some were chanting for the fire department, others were cheering for the police department.
It was a nail-biter.
After two minutes, the winner was announced.
The Ocoee Fire Department received a trophy, slimly claiming victory with 15 completed hoagies, compared to Ocoee Police Department’s 14.
“I demand a recount,” one police department member said from the crowd with a laugh.
“The cops just couldn’t keep up with us,” Henderson said.
“When dealing with the fire department, we’re no strangers to winning,” Jones added.
LIZ RAMOS SENIOR EDITOR
Ocoee’s Jannelle Ramos loves everything about Wawa and couldn’t wait to finally have a Wawa close to home.
Photos by Liz Ramos
Ocoee’s Don Bedwell was the first in line at the grand opening of Wawa. He was thrilled to receive his free cup of coffee and T-shirt.
Police Technology Specialist Pin Pananont, left, and Records Supervisor Chris Tolan made cotton candy.
Left: Ocoee Police Chief Vincent Ogburn, left, Officer Karla Gonzalez Reynoso and Community Service Officer Norman Paramore, gave away prizes.
Above: With activities for all ages, including an obstacle course for the children, the annual picnic event was fun for the whole family.
Right: Picnicgoers of all ages made their colorful marks on an Ocoee police cruiser.
Weatherstone on Lake
Ahome in the Weatherstone on Lake Olivia community in Windermere topped all West Orangearea residential real-estate transactions from April 14 to 20.
The home at 9664 Weatherstone Court, Windermere, sold April 18, for $2,650,000. Built in 2003, it has five bedrooms, sixand-one-half baths and 6,200 square feet of living area on 1.74 lakefront acres. Days on market: 104. The sellers were represented by JJ Mackle, Premier Sotheby’s International Realty.
These are the highestselling homes in each community in West Orange.
DR. PHILLIPS
BRENTWOOD CLUB
The home at 9833 Camberley Circle, Orlando, sold April 17, for $925,000. Built in 1992, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 3,127 square feet of living area. Days on market: Two.
CITRUS CHASE
The townhouse at 8244 Limetree Court, Orlando, sold April 14, for $520,000. Built in 1981, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,380 square feet of living area. Days on market: 43.
DELLAGIO
The home at 8304 Via Vittoria Way, Orlando, sold April 17, for $1,370,000. Built in 2019, it has four bedrooms, four-and-onehalf baths and 3,858 square feet of living area. Days on market: 157.
ISLES AT CAY COMMONS
The condo at 4126 Breakview Drive, No. 10301, Orlando, sold April 17, for $545,000. Built in 2007, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,247 square feet of living area.
SAND LAKE POINT
The home at 7609 Sandstone Drive, Orlando, sold April 18, for $685,000. Built in 1988, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,300 square feet of living area. Days on market: 32.
SANDPOINTE TOWNHOMES
The townhouse at 7709 Sundial Lane, Orlando, sold April 14, for $547,000. Built in 1987, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 2,084 square feet of living area. Days on market: 32.
TOSCANA
The home at 6992 Brescia Way, Orlando, sold April 15, for $717,500. Built in 2005, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 2,988 square feet of living area. Days on market: 11.
VIZCAYA
The home at 7923 Versilia Drive, Orlando, sold April 14, for $1,150,000. Built in 2002, it has four bedrooms, four baths and 3,161 square feet of living area. Days on market: One.
VIZCAYA HEIGHTS
The condo at 8766 The Esplanade, No. 27, Orlando, sold April 15, for $580,000. Built in 2003, it has four bedrooms, three-andone-half baths and 3,012 square feet of living area. Days on market: 94.
HORIZON WEST
ASHLIN PARK
The home at 11560 Ashlin Park Blvd., Windermere, sold April 14, for $595,000. Built in 2015, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 2,270 square feet of living area. Days on market: 32.
EDENS HAMMOCK
The townhouse at 14143 Ancilla Blvd., Windermere, sold April 15, for $410,000. Built in 2006, it has four bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 1,629 square feet of living area. Days on market: 10.
HAWKSMOOR
The home at 16249 Taliesin St., Winter Garden, sold April 14, for $808,900. Built in 2019, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,526 square feet of living area. Days on market: 14.
INDEPENDENCE/
SIGNATURE LAKES
The home at 15041 Gaulberry Run, Winter Garden, sold April 14, for $1,125,000. Built in 2013, it has five bedrooms, four baths, and two half-baths and 4,964 square feet of living area. Days on market: 57.
LAKES OF WINDERMERE
PEACHTREE
The home at 8432 Abbotsbury Drive, Windermere, sold April 17, for $532,000. Built in 2005, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,890 square feet of living area. Days on market: 148.
MABEL BRIDGE
The home at 11619 Chateaubriand Ave., Orlando, sold April 16, for $525,000. Built in 2012, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,303 square feet of living area. Days on market: 34.
OSPREY RANCH
The home at 15167 Blue Peacock Lane, No. 87, Winter Garden, sold April 14, for $686,700. Built in 2024, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,500 square feet of living area. Days on market: 40.
OXFORD MOOR
The home at 5518 Oxford Moor Blvd., Windermere, sold April 15, for $1,370,000. Built in 2003, it has four bedrooms, four-andone-half baths and 5,260 square feet of living area. Days on market: One.
PARKVIEW AT HAMLIN
The townhouse at 6672 Juneberry Way, Winter Garden, sold April 14, for $489,990. Built in 2025, it has three bedrooms, two-andone-half baths and 1,846 square feet. Days on market: 155.
STOREY GROVE
The home at 10241 Love Story St., Winter Garden, sold April 16, for $550,000. Built in 2018, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 2,502 square feet of living area. Days on market: 156.
WINDERMERE
KELSO ON LAKE BUTLER
The home at 1140 Kelso Blvd., Windermere, sold April 14, for $2,400,000. Built in 2009, it has six bedrooms, six baths and 6,003 square feet. Days on market: 80.
TOWN OF WINDERMERE
The home at 315 E. Sixth Ave., Windermere, sold April 16, for $939,000. Built in 1964, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,869 square feet. Days on market: 13.
WEATHERSTONE ON LAKE OLIVIA
The home at 9664 Weatherstone Court, Windermere, sold April 18, for $2,650,000. Built in 2003, it has five bedrooms, six-and-onehalf baths and 6,200 square feet of living area on 1.74 lakefront acres. Days on market: 104.
WINTER GARDEN
SUMMERPORT TRAIL
The home at 13832 Summerport Trail Loop, Windermere, sold April 18, for $505,000. Built in 2016, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 2,245 square feet of living area. Days on market: 91.
WATERLEIGH
The home at 8547 Bayview Crossing Drive, Winter Garden, sold April 14, for $645,000. Built in 2017, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,348 square feet of living area. Days on market: 51.
WATERMARK
The home at 10414 Austrina Oak Loop, Winter Garden, sold April 18, for $475,000. Built in 2019, it has four bedrooms, two-andone-half baths and 2,204 square feet of living area. Days on market: 90.
OCOEE
HAMPTON WOODS
The home at 527 Buckhaven Loop, Ocoee, sold April 18, for $437,500. Built in 1997, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,558 square feet of living area. Days on market: 14.
LAKE MEADOW LANDING
The townhouse at 1819 Terrapin Road, Ocoee, sold April 14, for $399,900. Built in 2022, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 1,767 square feet of living area. Days on market: 52.
WESTYN BAY
The home at 2333 Pesaro Circle, Ocoee, sold April 14, for $603,000. Built in 2005, it has six bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 3,650 square feet of living area. Days on market: Nine.
WHITEHILL
The home at 298 Misty Meadow Drive, Ocoee, sold April 14, for $449,000. Built in 1994, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,184 square feet of living area. Days on market: 44.
WYNWOOD
The home at 2512 Coachwood Drive, Ocoee, sold April 17, for $464,990. Built in 2025, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 1,828 square feet of living area. Days on market: 34.
CROWN POINT SPRINGS
The home at 1627 E. Spring Ridge Circle, Winter Garden, sold April 17, for $455,000. Built in 1999, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,678 square feet of living area. Days on market: 130.
GLYNWOOD
The home at 713 Duff Drive, Winter Garden, sold April 17, for $780,000. Built in 2005, it has four bedrooms, four baths and 3,509 square feet of living area. Days on market: Five.
HICKORY HAMMOCK
The home at 15886 Citrus Grove Loop, Winter Garden, sold April 15, for $785,000. Built in 2015, it has four bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 3,493 square feet of living area. Days on market: 61.
The home at 15870 Citrus Grove Loop sold April 17, for $720,000. Built in 2015, it has four bedrooms, four baths and 3,074 square feet. Days on market: 92.
LAKE AVALON GROVES
The home at 17952 Lookout Hill Road, Winter Garden, sold April 15, for $880,000. Built in 1986, it has three bedrooms, two-andone-half baths and 2,330 square feet of living area. Days on market: 67.
LAKEVIEW RESERVE
The home at 165 Lakeview Reserve Blvd., Winter Garden, sold April 18, for $525,000. Built in 2002, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 1,853 square feet of living area. Days on market: Two.
OAKLAND PARK
The home at 210 Hammock Preserve Loop, Winter Garden, sold April 14, for $980,000. Built in 2023, it has five bedrooms, four baths and 3,070 square feet of living area. Days on market: 47.
STONEYBROOK WEST
The home at 2341 Baronsmede Court, Winter Garden, sold April 18, for $790,000. Built in 2002, it has four bedrooms, four-andone-half baths and 3,507 square feet. Days on market: 28.
TUSCANY
The home at 1623 Walkerton Court, Winter Garden, sold April 17, for $539,900. Built in 1991, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,721 square feet of living area. Days on market: 61.
THE WEEK
ATHLETE
Gianna Landri
It was clear when, as a sixthgrader, The First Academy’s Gianna Landri qualified for states in the 4x800 meter relay she had what it took to be a special athlete. Now an eighth-grader, Landri is doing more than living up to her potential; she’s quickly establishing herself as one of the state’s top middle school runners.
After breaking through as a state-qualifier in seventh grade in three events — the 4x400 meter relay, 4x800 relay and 400-meter dash — the Royals’ star runner has brought home some major hardware. Landri claimed both the individual district and regional championships in the 400, while setting a school record time of 57.20.
With the Class 1A state championship meet set for Saturday, May 10, at the University of North Florida, Landri will have the chance to bring home her first state title. Landri qualified for four events — the 100-, 200and 400-meter dashes and the 4x400 relay.
How does it feel to be named Athlete of the Week?
It is an amazing opportunity. I am so grateful I was nominated.
What do you enjoy the most about track?
The competition and making friends with my competitors.
What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned from track? Never give up when things get hard.
What is your favorite track memory?
Winning my first regional championship and having my family and friends there supporting me.
THE BASICS Age: 14 Sport: Track and field Grade: Eighth School: The First Academy
Who is your favorite athlete? Why?
Gabby Thomas, because she’s shown such great perseverance when things get hard.
What is your go-to pre-meet meal?
Salmon and rice.
What is your go-to pre-meet hype song?
“Church Clap” by KB.
What is your favorite nonsports hobby? I love baking!
What is your favorite subject in school? Why?
History, because I love learning about ancient civilizations and how our past has affected us today.
What are three things you would take with you to a deserted island?
Food, water and a fire starter.
What is your favorite movie? All of “The Hunger Games” movies.
If you could have dinner with one person — dead or alive — who would it be? Why?
Anna Boleyn, because she was one of the most loved queens in England and played a great political role.
If you could go back in time to a specific period in history, when and where would you go? I’d go back to the 16th century in
Looking back, what piece of advice would you give your Stay confident when things get hard and never give up.
If you could ask your future self a question, what would it be? What college will I go to?
Who is your favorite superhero? Black Widow, because she is a strong female in many
Who is your favorite supervillain? Why?
Scarlett Overkill, because she has amazing taste!
If you could have any superpower, what would it be and Teleportation, so that I can visit
If you could travel to three places in the world, where would you go and why? Italy, Greece and Germany, so I could see all of the ancient history.
If you could be an animal for a day, which one would you be and An elephant! I just love them.
What is your most controversial Bagels with ketchup.
Does pineapple belong on pizza? Yes, but there is a fine line.
— SAM ALBUQUERQUE
Knights, Titans look strong
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1B
humans cannot comprehend it. Since taking over this program in 2022, Gurley has continued to instill these characteristics into the fabric of this program and develop a culture of teamfirst toughness. This identity isn’t flashy, it isn’t for everyone, and it sure isn’t easy. But when players buy in, as Gurley did, it can produce something special. The hope is the 2025 edition of the Knights can be the team that breakthrough.
NO. 1: FULL OFFSEASON TO BENEFIT QB, OFFENSE
Being thrown into the deep end isn’t an intense enough metaphor to describe how Onrique Archie began his stint as Ocoee’s QB1. After transferring to the school in the fall and having just a handful of practices under his belt, the left-handed quarterback was named the starter for the seasonopener against a vaunted Apopka High defense. Despite struggling in that first game, Archie showed he had the talent to lead the Knights offense, starting in eight games and throwing for 1,212 yards and 11 touchdowns for 2024’s run-heavy attack. Now in 2025, with former Apopka assistant Jett Davison taking over as Ocoee’s offensive coordinator, Archie already is showing significant improvement as a passer and processor in Davison’s offense. Expect the rising junior’s production to take a step up this season.
NO. 2: ‘MEAN MIKE’ SETTING THE TONE FOR TOUGH DEFENSE
If the numbers he put up the last few seasons didn’t scare opposing offenses enough, rising senior linebacker Michael McClenton has turned the intensity up to 11 this spring. Already a toughnosed pass rusher and run stopper, it seems McClenton has found another gear, and he’s playing angry. In fact, he is playing with so much intensity that he deserves a nickname: Mean Mike. Although in every interaction I’ve had with McClenton, he’s been a class act, luckily for me. I don’t have to try and block him or run away from him, but those who do better watch out this season. The future UCF Knights player is going to make some serious noise in 2025.
NO. 3: WHAT DOES THE O LOOK LIKE UNDER NEW OFFENSIVE COORDINATOR?
Last season, Ocoee rushed the football significantly more than it passed — 274 runs to 184 passes. However, with Davison now calling the plays on offense, Archie’s growth as a passer and the graduation of leading rusher Jamarian Robinson, and his 1,332 rushing
yards and 14 rushing touchdowns, will we see a shift in philosophy for the Knights offense this season?
My guess is the offensive identity will follow Archie’s development as a passer. Although Gurley loves to pound the rock, I have a feeling the Knights might lean more on the pass this season.
OLYMPIA TITANS 2024 record: 4-6
Spring game: 7 p.m. Friday, May 16 at Lake Minneola High Coach: Travis Gabriel, eighth season Key returners, additions: ATH Ja’Cari Jackson, DL Carson Rutledge, LB Aiden Harris, DB Daniel Stills and QB Noble Davis.
After one of the most impressive coaching jobs I’ve seen in a long time — leading an Olympia team that lost 36 seniors and 21 starters from the previous seasons to a 4-6 record in 2024 — Titans coach Travis Gabriel is back for his eighth season at the helm. Luckily for him and Olympia faithful, he has more than one starter returning in 2025.
Although there is much more stability this season, with various key players, including UCF commit Ja’Cari Jackson, returning, the Titans still will see a few significant changes this season, such as a new offensive coordinator — seeing defensive coordinator Vernon Mitchell flip sides of the field — and an offensive line that doesn’t include four-year starter Parker Moss.
“The biggest and probably the best thing I’ve done this offseason was make a change in offensive coordinator,” Gabriel said. “I think our O.C. this coming season is well equipped to get the offense to do what it is I’m looking for. … Having Vernon move over to the offense is going to help us out, because we see that side of the ball in the same way, so I trust that he’s going to be able to establish the correct identity and put our kids in the right position to succeed.”
NO. 1: JA’CARI JACKSON IS WORTH THE PRICE OF ADMISSION
In his first season as a member of the Titans, Jackson showed just how versatile, explosive and just plain fun he is on the football field. As a contributor at defensive back, wide receiver, quarterback and in the return game, Gabriel took advantage of the three-star prospect’s 4.55 40-yard dash speed in 2024.
Although Jackson is viewed as a defensive back at the college level and will primarily play at that position in 2025 for the Titans, Gabriel is not closing the door on utilizing his primetime player where the team needs him.
“Ja’Cari is developing more as a leader this season,” Gabriel said. “His maturity level is kicking up a notch, which will transition to him being a better player on the field because he’s going to feel that burden of being the face of the team and understand how big of a responsibility he has to the team, to be better in all aspects. … So if that means we use him just as a DB, then we will. But at the end of the day in high school football, you put the ball in your best players’ hands. He is one of our best players, so we’ll find a way to get the ball to him.”
NO. 2: COMPARED TO 2024, TITANS RETURN PLETHORA OF EXPERIENCE
“We have a good core of guys who are coming back (who) have experience,” Gabriel said. “I’ve always said you can’t replace experience. You can replace talent. You can replace speed. But you can’t ever replace experience, and I think with the guys coming back (we) have experience, and it’ll help us prepare to be better than what we were last year. Guys like Eric (Weems), Carson (Rutledge), our captain on defense Aiden Harris and Colton Showely next to him at linebacker. We bring back Ryder Flynn, Dylan Robinson and Charles Roundtree at DB to go along with Ja’Cari. On offense our starting QB is back Noble Davis, and our line is going to be led by two returning starters in Kevin Adams and Fuad Maali.”
NO. 3: FRESHMAN RUNNING BACKS IMPRESSING COACHES
With the loss of starting running back Raymond Green to graduation, who carries the rock for the new-look Titans offense is a question mark going into the spring season. But have no fear Olympia fans, coach Gabriel is liking what he sees from a pair of freshmen. “We have two young running backs, Matthew Haynes and Christian Gustavo, (who) are both in the ninth grade,” he said. “They’re young, but they’re built. I call them little bricks, because they’re both like 185 pounds and super strong. They’re both just ready to get out there and show what they can do, so I’d say watch out for them.”
Sam Albuquerque
Olympia linebacker Aiden Harris returns to lead the Titans defense in 2025.
Knights linebacker Michael McClenton (No. 3) shed a block and pursued the ball-carrier during practice.
Korbin Sanqui, a fifthgrader at Castleview Elementary School, wasn’t sure he had the talent or the interest to audition for the school’s Drama Club. But in his last year of elementary school, he decided to give it a chance. And he landed the lead role as Shrek in the school’s production of “Shrek the Musical Jr.” April 17-19. Sanqui encouraged other students to audition for the musical as they might discover talents they didn’t know they
Castleview stages ‘Shrek the Musical Jr.’
had. For fifth-graders Jaylen Sanchez, who played Lord Farquaad, and Lincoln Lund-Johnson, who played Donkey, the musical was an opportunity to play characters they said were fitting of their personalities.
— LIZ
Helena Caliman, who played Fiona, said she loved being able to express a range of emotions in the musical, making the audience laugh, cry and feel happy.
RAMOS
Helena Caliman sang her heart out as Fiona.
Korbin Sanqui and Lincoln Lund-Johnson had the playful backand-forth between Shrek and Donkey.
Grace Prendergast brought the sassy attitude of the dragon to life.
Jaylen Sanchez was thrilled to play the wannabe-king Lord Farquaad.
Isla Giuliani brought the wooden puppet of Pinocchio to life.
THE WAYS WE WERE FROM THE WINTER GARDEN HERITAGE FOUNDATION
On May 8, 1952, exactly 73 years ago, a photographer “only known to history as Swift” created this group portrait of the packinghouse employees at the Winter Garden Citrus Growers Association. Located on property bordered by East Bay, Second, Third and East Smith streets, this former citrus powerhouse was celebrating its 43rd year of operation. Phil C. Peters was the plant’s manager. No doubt many folks might be able to point out a family member who worked here when King Citrus ruled 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
80 years ago
Plans were being perfected for Winter Garden to have an up-todate laundry, according to William H. Lockhart, new owner of the Edgewater Hotel. W.B. Burch, census enumerator for Winter Garden, reported the population was 3,008.
75 years
ago
More than 60 boys and girls between the ages of 6 and 14 were at the Winter Garden City Commission meeting lobbying for the opening of the swimming pool.
55 years ago
From a column called “Things to do, places to go in Central Florida”: A series of Orlando Twins baseball games were scheduled at Tinker Field. Tickets ranged from 50 cents to $1.25. Steve Dunegan, Rex Robertson, Bill Coleman and Steve Strube brought new laurels to Lakeview High School in the field of mathematics. Lakeview’s fourmember “man math” team walked away with honors in the countywide math competition. Friends and former students paid tribute to Jessie Brock, retiring principal of Winter Garden Elementary School. In her 48 years of teaching, three generations of students passed under her watchful eyes. Among those sharing memories were Charles McMillan, George Howard, Mary Engstrom, Tom Sewell, George Bekemeyer and Foy Maloy.
50 years ago
Ron Lopsonzski, a member of the Lakeview High School coaching and teaching staff for 12 years, was appointed to the post of head football coach at the new West Orange High School. The town of Windermere celebrated its 50th anniversary with a parade and a big week of festivities. Parade band units included the Walt Disney World Fife and Drum Corps and the marching bands from Lakeview and Ocoee high schools. Bob Matheison as master of ceremonies, introduced Miss Florida Delta Burke. As a gesture of goodwill to mark the occasion, Bill Love, owner of Windermere Standard, caused a mild traffic jam by selling gas for 29.9 cents per gallon for three hours.
20 years ago
A principal and name were chosen for a relief school in the Stoneybrook West area. Patricia RamseyBaney was chosen to lead the facility, named Whispering Oak Elementary School. There was a strong local connection to the annual Kentucky Derby horse-racing event at Churchill Downs in Louisville. Don and Sue Graham, of Ocoee, were the breeders of Spanish Chestnut, an entrant in the Triple Crown race. The Grahams had stables on Ocoee-Clarcona Road and a horse farm in Ocala.
Windermere resident and former mayor Robert J. Pleus Jr. unanimously was elected chief judge by the other nine judges in the Fifth District Court of Appeal for a two-year term.
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TICKTOCK by Jessica Bloom-Foster & Larry Snyder, edited by Jared Goudsmit
By Luis Campos