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5FAST
1Casting with a Cop set for June 14
Residents are invited to cast a line and connect with local law enforcement at Casting with a Cop, a free fishing event hosted by the Ocoee Police Department.
The event will be held from 8 to 10 a.m. Saturday, June 14, at Bill Breeze Park in Ocoee.
Fishing gear and bait will be provided for participants, but quantities are limited. No prior experience is necessary. Officers will be available to assist fishing off the pier and engage in conversations with community members. Get Hooked Bait and Tackle is the event sponsor. Registration is free. To sign up, visit ocoee.org.
2
Gunshots reported in downtown Winter Garden
The Winter Garden Police Department is investigating reports of gunshots fired Saturday, May 31, in downtown Winter Garden.
the area, authorities said.
No injuries were reported.
The alleged shooter, 22-year-old Javien Angel Ortiz, is facing two misdemeanor charges — battery and discharging a firearm in public — as well as one felony charge of child cruelty without causing great bodily harm. He currently is out on bond.
The investigation is ongoing.
3
Ocoee police searches for missing teen
The Ocoee Police Department is seeking the public’s assistance in locating 16-year-old Lorenzo Robles.
Robles was last seen at about 2:35 p.m. Tuesday, May 27. According to police reports, he left his residence in Ocoee and stated he would return. However, he did not.
Robles is a black male with black hair and brown eyes. He is about 6 feet tall and weighs 146 pounds. At the time of his disappearance, he was wearing a white top, white capris and black tights underneath.
4
Horizon High theater earns top honors for ‘Hadestown: Teen Edition’
Horizon High School’s theater department earned high praise at the Applause Awards. It’s production of “Hadestown: Teen Edition” won multiple honors at the awards, hosted at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts.
The show was named Outstanding Musical — Magnolia Division, and the cast performed a number on the Walt Disney Theater stage during the awards ceremony Saturday, May 31.
Students in Horizon High’s theater program received multiple honors.
Lestat Parks. Ashley Fisher and Simone Fisher also were recognized for Outstanding Costumes. Aiden Gjurich earned two separate awards for Outstanding Lighting — one for “Hadestown: Teen Edition” and another for “Grease.” Alina Hale was named Outstanding Stage Manager, and the entire cast of “Hadestown: Teen Edition” was honored with Outstanding Ensemble.
5
Agave Bandido to open June 9
Attention, Horizon West foodies: Agave Bandido has announced its opening date.
The new Mexican restaurant will welcome its first guests beginning at 4 p.m. Monday, June
The Hamlin restaurant will be the company’s largest location to date. The location includes a covered patio perfect for year-round dining, an open-air bar and a design by artist Ruben Ubiera that pays tribute to the Day of the Dead.
Guests can expect a full-service experience that blends modern Mexican cuisine with creative cocktails and a high-energy atmosphere.
The menu features favorites such as freshly made table-side guacamole, flaming queso, birria tacos and margarita trees, along with weekend brunch specialties and churro shots.
An exclusive feature at this location, the Maya SpeakTiki is a hidden, Aztec-inspired speakeasy where guests can enjoy specialty tapas and bold, over-the-top tikistyle cocktails.
Agave Bandido also is home to one of the largest tequila and mezcal selections in the region, with more than 200 tequila options, plus bottomless brunch cocktails and margarita flights featuring fresh tropical ingredients such as mango, coconut and guava.
“Agave Bandido at Hamlin Town Center is poised to be a standout culinary destination, bringing the spirit of Mexico to Horizon West with its vibrant ambiance, exceptional cuisine and exclusive experiences,” Wolverine Management
Courtesy photo
Horizon’s ‘Hadestown: Teen Edition’ earned accolades at the Applause Awards.
BOOM, ROASTED!
Advocacy group gives away meat in support of ‘Big Beautiful Bill’
Americans for ProsperityFlorida gave away 100 pot roasts in Winter Garden to symbolize potential impacts of tax legislation.
DEBRA GARCIA STAFF WRITER
How much is 100 4-pound pot roasts worth?
To Americans for Prosperity-Florida, the 100 pot roasts distributed at Choice Meats Winter Garden Thursday, May 29, were worth $3,500, symbolizing the average annual tax increase Florida families could face if the 2017 tax cuts expire. AFP is a nonpartisan, grassroots organization dedicated to removing barriers to opportunity. The group advocates for issues such as economic freedom and educational access. According to an AFP press release, AFP supports policies that lower taxes, reduce government spending and promote free-market solutions to financial challenges. Its mission is to empower citizens to influence public policy at the local, state and national levels.
The pot roast giveaway gave AFP supporters the opportunity to educate people on H.R. 1 — the Tax Cuts for Working Families Act of 2024, One Big Beautiful Bill Act, aka “One Big Beautiful Bill.”
The U.S. House of Representatives passed the bill Thursday, May 22. If enacted, the bill would extend and make permanent many provisions of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, while introducing additional tax cuts and
THE TAX CUT TIMELINE — FROM 2017 TO H.R. 1
In 2017, Congress passed the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, which: doubled the standard deduction; lowered income tax rates; increased the child tax credit; and eliminated personal exemptions.
These provisions are scheduled to expire at the end of 2025.
To prevent that, the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 1 — the Tax Cuts for Working Families Act of 2024, nicknamed the “One Big Beautiful Bill,” Thursday, May 22. The bill aims to extend the 2017 tax cuts for individuals and families. If the bill is signed into law, the average Florida household could see a tax increase of about $3,500, according to the National Taxpayers Union Foundation.
credits. Key proposals include boosting the standard deduction for tax years 2025 through 2028 and eliminating federal taxes on tips and overtime pay, among other changes.
“$3,500 is what our taxes are going to be raised (by) if Congress does not do their job and pass the bill,” AFP volunteer Allison Painter said. “They need to do what they ran on — no taxes on tips, no taxes on Social Security, no taxes on overtime.”
Dayna Gaut, AFP grassroots engagement director, helped coordinate the event. Gaut said the group’s broader goal is to make government less burdensome to everyday people.
“Our whole goal is that the government should not be a barrier to letting citizens live their best life and their life meaning,” Gaut said. “We want
to empower people to be part of the change.”
Community volunteers expressed concerns about rising costs and voiced support for extending the tax cuts.
Gregg Jones, CEO of Conservatives USA, said the federal government needs to allow the tax cuts, saying grocery prices were a concern but are improving.
“Gas prices are down already,” he said. “Egg prices are down, energy prices are down, everything’s in a downward trend. How could you be against that?”
Erin Huntley, a candidate for the Florida House of Representatives District 45, was at the event and championed economic relief for families.
“Families need more money back in their pockets,” Huntley said. “The state government is doing a great job.” Winter Garden resident Jeff Basham picked up a roast and showed his support for AFP’s cause.
“I want the Big Beautiful Bill,” he said.
While Americans for Prosperity contends extending the 2017 tax cuts will provide relief to working families, critics argue doing so could have significant long-term fiscal consequences. According to the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget, making these tax cuts permanent could add about $5.3 trillion to the national deficit over the next decade.
Analyses from the Tax Policy Center indicate the benefits of the proposed extensions would disproportionately favor higher-income households. Specifically, 60% of the tax cuts would go to the top 20% of earners, with more than one-third benefiting those making $460,000 or more annually.
Allegations prompt investigation into Horizon High softball program
DEBRA GARCIA AND SAM ALBUQUERQUE
Orange County Public Schools’ Office of Professional Standards has opened an investigation into allegations against two Horizon High softball coaches regarding alleged inappropriate comments about the physical appearance of a pair of softball players, according to emails obtained by the Observer.
Buddy and Katie Hernandez, parents of Horizon freshman Paisley Hernandez and junior Lila Hernandez; and Tania Lamb, mother of senior Addison Lamb, have both accused assistant coach Marlando Stiles of making inappropriate comments regarding the Hernandez sisters’ physical appearances and the fit of their school-issued athletic apparel. They asked for the removal of head coach Stephen Lenzi.
“At the Horizon versus Lake Brantley game on April 18, as the girls were warming up before the game — and Paisley was warming up with Addison — all of a sudden, Addison, stopped warming up and just held the ball … and her jaw dropped to the ground,” Katie Hernandez said. “Paisley asked Addison, ‘What was the matter?’ And Addison was so taken aback at first she didn’t even want to tell Paisley.”
According to the Hernandez parents and Tania Lamb, the senior pitcher heard Stiles making comments about the younger Hernandez sister’s body and comparing her to her older sister.
Lenzi allegedly laughed at the comment before noticing Addison Lamb had overheard and said to Stiles: “Addie heard you.”
To which Stiles responded, “Oh (expletive), I’m going to get fired.”
Katie Hernandez told the Observer her daughter went over to the coaches and asked what they had said, and they all “laughed at her, and Steve said, ‘We just said you needed bigger pants.’”
Emails obtained by the Observer show Horizon Principal Andrew Jackson told the players’ parents, following the allegations, Stiles had been removed from the Horizon softball coaching staff, and Martha Chang, executive area director of Orange County Public Schools, said the Office of Professional Standards is investigating. Lenzi was allowed to remain on as coach and finish the season.
The three players — all of whom have been vital to the Hawks’ success in 2025 — chose not to continue playing for Lenzi because they felt uncomfortable with him remaining on and missed the remainder of the season.
“Before we filed our incident report … I asked Paisley what she wanted to do,” Katie Hernandez said. “She told me that she couldn’t be around them because she felt so uncomfortable.”
Buddy and Katie Hernandez
contacted OCPS’ Title IX coordinator to file an incident report of sexual harassment on May 8, May 12 and May 14. As of press time, neither parent has received any communication from the coordinator.
“For all the money in the world, you couldn’t pay me to do this year all over again,” Paisley Hernandez said.
Addison Lamb, the lone senior of the three and one of two of Horizon softball’s first four-year players, echoed her freshman teammate’s feelings toward Lenzi remaining on staff.
“It’s been really sad for her, for us really, because Addison loves softball, and softball was her happy place,” Tania Lamb said. “(Softball) was where she felt like she fit in, and then after this happened, she didn’t want to go anymore. Some people will say that she quit the team. But really, she just refused to play for a coach. Had there been an interim coach brought in or even if they had left the JV coach in charge, she would have kept playing, because she really loves the sport. The funny thing is that I have never been a fan of Coach Lenzi and have been asking Addison to transfer for the last two years. … But she has always liked him and would always defend him. I knew that this really affected her, because to decide to not play for him and finish her senior season was a big decision because she had always been a fan. She just wasn’t comfortable around Coach Lenzi anymore, after he laughed at the statement that was made, and then even his response saying, ‘No, we were just saying you needed bigger pants.’ It felt like he brushed it off like it was nothing. And so it’s been really hard.”
In an email obtained by the Observer, Tamika Redfin, a senior manager for OCPS’ Office of Professional Standards, confirmed to the Hernandez parents a decision regarding the allegations were made and they “will be notified via email once the case is closed with the findings.”
Redfin was contacted but declined to comment on the investigation and the decision she referred to in the email.
On Monday, April 21, Buddy Hernandez received two voicemails from Lenzi, asking to speak to him “as a friend, as family.” He later left another voicemail on Saturday, April 26, asking Buddy Hernandez to call him back.
“Hey, man, I know you’re upset,” he said. “I’m not here to argue with you. I’m not here to lie with you, man.”
Lenzi was contacted repeatedly but declined to comment on the allegations. Multiple attempts to contact Stiles, Jackson and other OCPS employees were made but were unsuccessful, as were attempts to contact OCPS’ Title IX office.
Debra Garcia
Eric Huntley, husband of Florida House of Representatives District 45 candidate Erin Huntley, Choice Meats Winter Garden owner Gus Siokis, Erin Huntley and Grassroots Engagement Director for Americans for Prosperity Dayna Gaut were happy to show their support of the ‘Big Beautiful Bill.’
LIZ RAMOS SENIOR EDITOR
Winter Garden’s Lyndsay Fogarty was determined.
As she walked through Super Nintendo World at Universal Orlando’s new Epic Universe Saturday, May 31, she punched every question mark block she could find. Each punch meant she would earn more points in the interactive competition against family and friends. Before her visit, she was in third place, and she needed to earn more points to boost her ranking.
Rather than playing as her favorite Mario character, Princess Peach, Fogarty became a character herself as Epic Universe made her feel like she shrank down to the size of a video game character and was in the game herself.
Fogarty said on a different visit to the park, she left the people with whom she went to the parks to meet Princess Peach, and she also met Toad. “As a kid, (these characters) weren’t in the theme parks so you didn’t really think you’d get a chance to meet Mario or Peach the way you could meet Mickey or Minnie,” she said. “It was a really cool experience, something I never would have thought of as tiny Lyndsay growing up. … Experiences like (meeting Toothless) and experiences like you’re going to have in Nintendo land let you go back to that time when you were a kid. It’s nostalgic, and just embrace it.”
Residents said Epic Universe immersed them into the intricate worlds Universal created as they walked into each of the five lands: The Wizarding World of Harry Potter — Ministry of Magic, Super Nintendo World, Dark Universe, How to Train Your Dragon — Isle of Berk and Celestial Park. They were transported into lands unlike any other for unforgettable experiences.
SHEER BEAUTY
From the moment park-goers walked in, they were taken aback by the beauty of this park.
“It was absolutely stunning,” Horizon West’s Leslie Hoover said. “The only thing that was completely consistently coming to mind was just, ‘This is the most beautiful park I’ve ever been in,’ and in 10 years, how it’s going to be even more gorgeous. … It’s not overwhelming in size, but it is overwhelming in aesthetics and beauty.” Celestial Park, the nexus that interweaves the lands together, is the jumping-off point that launches
“If
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Locals experience newest theme park Observer
people into the extraordinary worlds.
The portals that transport people to each land were built to immediately begin telling the thrilling stories of the characters and worlds that lie ahead. For example, Windermere’s Carol Ziegler said the portal to Dark Universe shows the electric lightning bolts coming through the village for Dr. Victoria Frankenstein to obtain the desperately needed energy to continue with her experiments.
Walking through the portals, parkgoers are transported to each land.
The portals are built strategically so you can’t see anything on one side or the other until you’ve arrived in the land, Ziegler said.
Hoover said Universal did an excellent job truly immersing people into the worlds Universal created as people aren’t able to see into other lands from anywhere they’re standing in the respective lands.
“Nothing else exists outside (of each world),” Fogarty said.
In preparation for visiting Epic Universe, Hoover watched “How to Train Your Dragon” to get an idea of what was in store at the park and familiarize herself with the characters. Walking into the Isle of Berk, she was in disbelief at her new reality. She said everything was made of real wood in the land with buildings towering high, windmills and dragons everywhere. The flags are flying high. The visitors of the Isle of Berk were given their own dragon wings to try and learn how to fly.
“It was all so right on as far as what would be real,” Hoover said.
Ziegler said the music played throughout each of the lands captivates you. From the soundtracks that immerse you into the park to the ambient sounds that make the details of the park come to life, every sound
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becomes a treat to hear.
She walked through Darkmoor Village, the gothic, Eastern European town created in Dark Universe, and stepped into the apothecary. When she walked around the shop, she could hear a conversation between Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde.
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter — Ministry of Magic combines the iconic aspects of the British Ministry of Magic fans have come to know from the popular “Harry Potter” series with the 1920s Parisian setting from the “Fantastic Beasts” franchise.
“I keep collecting all of these Easter eggs so that I have more and more to look forward to the next time I go,” Ziegler said of the numerous calls to the different aspects of the movies and video games on which the lands are based.
No matter the age or fandom, Ziegler, Hoover and Fogarty all said Epic Universe has something throughout the park for everyone to enjoy.
“It was really cool to see the multigenerational families who grew up with Nintendo and Mario, playing the games, and the kids doing the same,” Fogarty said of Super Nintendo World.
She felt like a kid again as she met Princess Peach, a character she always loved as a child watching her battle bosses and serve as more than just a sidekick to Mario and Luigi.
But despite the park’s beauty, immense attention to detail and variety in entertainment for all ages, residents said Epic Universe missed the mark on one aspect: shade.
Throughout the lands, people struggled to find places to escape the heat as there isn’t much foliage to cover the parks and protect people from the hot Florida sun.
With a strategy on timing of rides and shows, park-goers said there is a chance to beat the heat, but they each suggested having a room at a nearby hotel would be beneficial to get away for a little while to take a break.
INTERACTIVITY IS KEY
Universal is known for its thrilling roller coasters, and Epic Universe is not an exception.
A popular ride among park-goers is Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment, a thrill ride in Dark Universe telling the story of Dr. Victoria Frankenstein continuing the work of her ancestors below the family estate. But a demonstration of her experiments to control monsters goes awry when Dracula leads a revolt of enraged monsters, giving riders an opportunity to see the Mummy, Wolf Man, the Creature from the Black
Lagoon and more.
“That is just amazing,” Ziegler said. “The realistic detail in that is phenomenal, and they just kept adding to it. The effects with the back of the chair vibrating and the water’s dripping effect and the characters, it’s all fabulous.”
Fogarty said she was in line for Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge for at least 90 minutes, but the amount of detail in the queue kept her engaged.
“There was an area of Bowser’s library, and they had a bunch of different books with different titles related to certain games or certain parts of the game,” she said. “We could have spent all day there looking at all the books. It is really detailed and super cool.”
A downside to any new park opening is not all the kinks have been worked out, Ziegler said, but Epic Universe has found some ways to make up for the days when rides are down and people continue to need to be entertained.
Ziegler and Fogarty said the interactions with characters is remarkable because not only do the characters take a moment to take a photo with you, but they also take time to talk to you and immerse you into the interaction.
Besides the characters, there also are interactive games and activities. In The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, there are moments you can feel like a real witch or wizard by whipping out your wand to see what magic you can create, just like in Diagon Alley at Universal Studios and Hogsmeade at Universal Islands of Adventure.
For Fogarty and the park-goers who accompanied her, the best interactive points were in Super Nintendo World. They each wore a wristband that is connected to an app that will track scores and allow you to compete against other people. Punching question mark blocks and winning mini games earns you points and coins. Linking your band while riding Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge earns you points as if you’re playing Mario Kart.
“It feels like you’re actually in the game, like you’ve shrunk down and you’re Mario or Princess Peach,” Fogarty said. “They have a bunch of mini games there too, and you can go play the big boss. Seeing my boyfriend and his son playing it together when we grew up with that and here they are in this world playing in real life was just so cool.”
Fogarty said the interactive games are what set Epic Universe apart from other theme parks. They’re easy games for all to participate in and enjoy, and they are simple ways for people to be entertained, especially people who aren’t a fan of roller coasters.
meng@OrangeObserver.com.
The West Orange Times meets the legal requirements
WEST ORANGE TIMES
The West Orange Times (USPS 687120) is published weekly for $60 per year and $110 per two years by the Observer Media Group, 661 Garden Commerce Parkway, Winter Garden, Florida, 34787. Periodical postage paid at Winter Garden, Florida.
POSTMASTER: Send changes of address to the (name of pub; i.e., West Orange Times West Orange Times
Courtesy photos
Meeting characters like Toad in Super Nintendo World was a highlight for Winter Garden’s Lyndsay Fogarty, right.
Windermere’s Carol Ziegler, right, appreciated that each person had plenty of time to visit Hiccup and Toothless in How to Train Your Dragon — Isle of Berk.
Left: Characters roam throughout the various lands. The Invisible Man can be found lurking around Dark Universe.
FAR EAST MEETS WEST ORANGE
Sannvi Jha with Recognizing Experiencing Asian Cultural Heritage of Central Florida dressed in a sharara to represent her Indian heritage.
She stood proud alongside Meira Lee and Caitlyn Du as they served as the masters of ceremony at the Asian American Heritage Council of Central Florida’s annual Asian
Cultural Festival Saturday, May 17, at Ocoee Lakeshore Center.
“I’m so excited to see the performances,” she said. “Everyone worked so hard.”
Attendees enjoyed the foods, sights and sounds of various Asian countries as the festival included food vendors, performances and organizations with booths.
Oakland commissioners warned of budget deficit
In a report to Oakland town commissioners, Town Manager Elise Hui shared the town could be facing a budget deficit.
“Right now, it’s not looking super great,” Hui said at the commission’s meeting Tuesday, May 27. “We’re in a deficit position. We will be looking to make some cuts.”
According to Hui, one contributing factor to the anticipated deficit is the town’s growing list of infrastructure projects that could be funded through impact fees, which are charges collected from developers to help pay for public services required by new growth. However, current impact fee
rates are not sufficient to meet the demands of these planned projects, prompting town staff to consider raising the fees to better align revenue with future capital needs.
Town officials also are preparing to examine potential revenue sources and spending cuts.
Hui outlined innovative approaches to generate additional revenue, including a proposed cell tower ordinance that would allow the town to place infrastructure on municipal properties.
“We could look at placing a cell tower on one of our properties to increase public safety as well as potentially bring in some revenue for the town,” Hui said.
To address fiscal constraints, two impact fee work sessions are scheduled, with a preliminary budget hearing planned for June. Staff is meeting individually with commissioners to review legislative budgets.
The upcoming budget work sessions will provide a detailed look at Oakland’s fiscal strategy and possible areas for financial adjustment.
The commission is collaborating with Raftelis Financial Consultants Inc., a consulting group, on an impact fee study and will hold public sessions on the impact fee increase ordinance on Tuesday, June 10, and Tuesday, July 8. In these sessions, if the Oakland Town Commission approves the ordi-
nance on Tuesday, July 8, the effective date will be Wednesday, Aug. 13, following the 90-day notice period.
The financial team, led by Finance Director Gabbie Leon, currently is awaiting final reports from the Orange County Property Appraiser, which will provide crucial data for the potential reallocation of funds.
ASPHALT MILLINGS PETITION
During public comments, resident Scott Hren presented a draft petition challenging the town’s recent road project in Oakland Shores, explicitly targeting the use of asphalt millings
as a road surface material. Hren said he surveyed 47 residents in Oakland Shores, with 88.8% of residents expressing dissatisfaction. The petition titled “Petition to Pave Oakland Shores” has yet to be filed with the town but had five signatures as of Tuesday, May 27. “We, the undersigned residents of Oakland Shores, respectfully petition the Town of Oakland to remove the existing asphalt millings from our neighborhood streets and to repave them using hot mix asphalt,” the petition read. “We believe this improvement is essential to enhance
road safety, durability and air quality, thereby improving the overall health and quality of life in our community.”
The town commission has not yet formally responded to the petition. Hren showed the commission multiple examples of hazards embedded in the road material, including sharp debris such as broken glass fragments, PVC fragments and metal wires. “Today, I urge the commission to halt the asphalt millings project and prioritize a thorough review with resident input,” Hren said. “Our health, safety and quality of
LIZ RAMOS
DEBRA GARCIA STAFF WRITER
Debra Garcia
Amy Quesinberry Price, of Winter Garden, was honored by the Oakland Town Commission for her work covering the Oakland Town Commission for the West Orange Times & Observer for the past 35 years.
The festival included a parade of nations in which individuals from various Asian countries shared a message in the country’s language.
Lizzie Tricker and Lily Wu with the Joy Ukulele Club of Central Florida performed the national anthem. Fusion Fest board members dressed for the occasion.
Harisha Lavudi, Kushal Lavudi and Navitha Thokala sold various items as the owners of Saburi Collections.
Amanda Zhang, Susan Li and Yiting Wang with the Greater Orlando Chinese Professionals Association said it was wonderful connecting with local people and introduce them to their organization.
First Baptist Church @ Horizon West 15304 Tilden Road, Winter Garden
Sundays: 9:45 AM All Ages www.FBCWG.org
Starke Lake Baptist Church
Pastor Jeff Pritchard PO Box 520 611 W Ave., Ocoee (407) 656-2351 www.StarkeLakeBaptist.org
Victory Baptist Church & Christian Academy
1601 A.D. Mims Rd, Ocoee FL 34761 (407) 656-3097
www.VBCOCOEE.com
Sunday: 11AM & 6 PM Wednesday: 7 PM
METHODIST
First United Methodist www.fumcwg.org 125 N. Lakeview Ave., Winter Garden (407) 656-1135
Services: 9 AM Traditional 10:45 AM Contemporary Also viewable on YouTube
PRESBYTERIAN
St. John’s PCA
Meets at West Orange HS 1625 Beulah Rd, Winter Garden 321-343-7741
Sundays: 10:30 AM www.stjohnspca.com
Construction on Silverleaf Park to begin in 2027
LIZ RAMOS SENIOR EDITOR
Orange County unveiled the conceptual master plan for the new five-acre Silverleaf Park during a community meeting Wednesday, May 21, at Hamlin Middle School.
Officials with the county’s parks planning division presented the community survey results, park details and timeline.
The neighborhood park is being constructed at 16030 Silver Grove Blvd., just south of Hamlin Middle.
Design and engineering for the park could go until May 2026, followed by permitting and bidding, which takes about six months. Construction is expected to begin in early 2027 with completion in early to mid-2028 depending on potential delays.
The overall budget for the park is $1.8 million, with $300,000 designated for design and engineering and $1.5 million for construction.
The park will be open from dawn to dusk and will not have lights.
SURVEY SAYS
Orange County received 209 responses from the online survey to gauge what residents wanted to see in the park.
During the county’s first public meeting for the park Thursday, March 6, the most heard feedback included desires for crosswalk access to the park from Hamlin Elementary and Hamlin Middle schools, multipurpose field, playground, sports amenities, consideration for what nearby Homeowners Associations offer and for the park to be open from dawn to dusk.
The top five park amenities from the survey were paved walking path/ sidewalk, shade trees, playground, picnic pavilion and multipurpose courts for tennis and pickleball.
Other comments from the survey included a desire for mini disc golf, tennis and pickleball, shade, playgrounds, and basketball.
Additional comments in the survey were residents wanting splash pads, restrooms and a gym, but because Silverleaf Park will be a neighborhood park, it is not compatible with these amenities.
A CLOSER LOOK
The entrance to the park will be at the crosswalk already in place crossing Silvergrove Boulevard from Hamlin Middle to the south.
BY THE NUMBERS
$1,799,991 Overall budget
$300,000 Design engineering $331,172 Contractor
$234,958 Site improvements
$933,861 Amenities
209 Survey responses
a looped walk that’s about 1,500 linear feet, Statham said. It’s designed to have a short loop, medium loop and long loop for residents to walk. The walkway will have trees lining it to provide shade.
On the west side of the park is a multi-use pickleball and tennis court area.
There are berms planned for the right of the playground and the left side of the pavilion area to help prevent organized sports from taking over the area.
“We found that if some of the areas were too large, we get some of the organized sports coming in with wall towers and things like that at 10 o’clock at night, and that’s just not good,” Statham said.
There are trees planned to line Silvergrove Boulevard to serve as a visual buffer from the schools across the street.
The park also will have a bike rack at the entrance of the park, two water fountains with bottle fillers, benches, and trash and recycle bins.
There will not be parking on site as community parks are created with the idea that it’s for residents in the area to walk or bike to the park.
Michael Statham, parks program development supervisor, said he’s proposed a speed table to help improve and slow down the traffic on the roadway.
Statham said on the west side of the park is the picnic pavilion area with grills and tables. These amenities will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.
On the east side of the park are the shaded playgrounds, one for ages 2 to 5 and another for ages 5 to 12. There are six or seven benches integrated into the playground design, which also features resilient rubber surfacing.
Around the perimeter of the park is
“If we allow parking, people could be there all kinds of hours, and we don’t staff it,” said Regina Ramos, park planning and development manager for Orange County Government. “We want to be mindful of the people in the neighborhood and make sure this is the kind of park (the community wants) and it is appropriate for the area.”
Silverleaf Park will be a satellite park, meaning Orange County will not staff the park. Maintenance teams will go by the park every so often to address issues.
After hearing comments from community members at the meeting on the plan, Ramos said staff will look into adding entrance pathways on the east and west sides of the park to allow for more convenient access for residents of those surrounding neighborhoods.
Ahome in the Chaine Du Lac community in Windermere topped all West Orange-area residential real-estate transactions from May 12 to 18.
The home at 3402 Cocard Court, Windermere, sold May 15, for $4,100,000. Built in 2009, it has five bedrooms, seven-andone-half baths and 9,909 square feet. Days on market: Three. The sellers were represented by Matt Tomaszewski, Corcoran Premier Realty.
These are the highestselling homes in each community in West Orange.
GOTHA FIRE CREEK
The home at 10055 Brocksport Circle, Gotha, sold May 13, for $1,599,000. Built in 2023, it has four bedrooms, three baths, two half-baths and 4,487 square feet. Days on market: 64.
TOWN OF GOTHA
The home at 9272 Gotha Road, Windermere, sold May 13, for $770,000. Built in 1988, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 1,886 square feet. Days on market: 12.
HORIZON WEST
HARVEST AT OVATION
The home at 13038 Sunrise Harvest Drive, Winter Garden, sold May 16, for $804,160. Built in 2024, it has five bedrooms, four baths and 2,817 square feet. Days on market: 189.
The home at 15086 Summer Harvest St., Winter Garden, sold May 16, for $650,000. Built in 2025, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,934 square feet. Days on market: 140.
HAWKSMOOR
The home at 16161 Parkwyn St., Winter Garden, sold May 14, for $700,000. Built in 2020, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,470 square feet. Days on market: 80.
HICKORY LAKE ESTATES
The home at 9229 Lake Hickory Nut Drive, Winter Garden, sold May 16, for $1,350,000. Built in 1998, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,829 square feet. Days on market: 69.
HORIZON ISLE
The home at 13188 Faro Court, No. 42, Winter Garden, sold May 13, for $837,987. Built in 2025, it has five bedrooms, four-and-onehalf baths and 3,719 square feet. Days on market: 37.
INDEPENDENCE/ SIGNATURE LAKES
The home at 6115 Sunset Isle Drive, Winter Garden, sold May 16, for $699,000. Built in 2014, it has five bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 3,559 square feet. Days on market: 234.
LAKE CAWOOD ESTATES
The home at 13628 Lake Cawood Drive, Windermere, sold May 15, for $1,280,000. Built in 1998, it has four bedrooms, three baths, two half-baths and 4,505 square feet. Days on market: One.
LAKE SAWYER SOUTH
The home at 13258 Vennetta Way, Windermere, sold May 14, for $565,500. Built in 2008, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,175 square feet. Days on market: Five.
MABEL BRIDGE
The home at 11701 Chateaubriand Ave., Orlando, sold May 13, for $740,000. Built in 2012, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,585 square feet. Days on market: Nine.
ORCHARD HILLS
The home at 4107 Briar Gate Lane, Winter Garden, sold May 15, for $739,900. Built in 2015, it has five bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 3,509 square feet. Days on market: Two.
OSPREY RANCH
The home at 15126 Field Daisy Drive, No. 205, Winter Garden, sold May 12, for $603,668. Built in 2025, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,200 square feet. Days on market: Four.
PROVIDENCE
The home at 6244 Little Lake Sawyer Drive, Windermere, sold May 15, for $845,000. Built in 2002, it has five bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 3,300 square feet. Days on market: 42.
SILVERLEAF RESERVE AT HAMLIN
The home at 4827 Lacewing Drive, Winter Garden, sold May 12, for $538,800. Built in 2023, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,011 square feet. Days on market: Four.
STOREY GROVE
The home at 15186 Book Club Road, Winter Garden, sold May 14, for $564,900. Built in 2019, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,089 square feet. Days on market: Two.
SUMMERPORT
The home at 5014 Wise Bird Drive, Windermere, sold May 14, for $518,000. Built in 2004, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,342 square feet. Days on market: 98.
WATERLEIGH
The home at 11015 Bostwick Alley, Winter Garden, sold May 16, for $575,000. Built in 2023, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,200 square feet. Days on market: Four.
WATERMARK
The home at 10415 Austrina Oak Loop, Winter Garden, sold May 12, for $535,000. Built in 2019, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,192 square feet. Days on market: 92.
WINDERMERE TRAILS
The home at 8738 Iron Mountain Trail, Windermere, sold May 15, for $825,000. Built in 2013, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 3,127 square feet. Days on market: 284.
OAKLAND
HULL ISLAND AT OAKLAND
The home at 2157 Bay Line Road, Oakland, sold May 13, for $690,000. Built in 2020, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,274 square feet. Days on market: 69.
JOHNS COVE
The home at 1215 Johns Cove Lane, Oakland, sold May 12, for $620,000. Built in 2003, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,811 square feet. Days on market: 103.
JOHNS LANDING
The home at 627 Largovista Drive, Oakland, sold May 14, for $1,080,000. Built in 2002, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 3,800 square feet. Days on market: 136.
OCOEE FOREST TRAILS
The home at 2136 Laurel Blossom Circle, Ocoee, sold May 15, for $624,000. Built in 2006, it has six bedrooms, five-and-one-half baths and 3,753 square feet. Days on market: 56.
FORESTBROOKE
The home at 264 Wallrock Court, Ocoee, sold May 16, for $670,000. Built in 2011, it has five bedrooms, four baths and 4,247 square feet of living area. Days on market: 72.
MEADOW RIDGE
The home at 448 Douglas Edward Drive, Ocoee, sold May 12, for $724,900. Built in 2008, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 2,487 square feet. Days on market: 32.
The home at 2843 Maria Isabel Ave., Ocoee, sold May 16, for $670,000. Built in 2009, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 2,487 square feet. Days on market: 16.
WELLINGTON PLACE
The home at 1262 Stonewater Circle, Ocoee, sold May 14, for $590,000. Built in 2004, it has six bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths and 3,566 square feet of living area. Days on market: 26.
WINDSOR LANDING
The home at 243 Sagecrest Drive, Ocoee, sold May 13, for $720,000. Built in 2004, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 3,026 square feet.
WINDERMERE
CHAINE DU LAC
The home at 3402 Cocard Court, Windermere, sold May 15, for $4,100,000. Built in 2009, it has five bedrooms, seven-and-onehalf baths and 9,909 square feet of living area. Days on market: Three.
LAKE CRESCENT RESERVE
The home at 2844 Marquesas Court, Windermere, sold May 16, for $3,315,000. Built in 1985, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 5,365 square feet. Days on market: Four.
RESERVE AT LAKE BUTLER SOUND
The home at 11306 Bridge House Road, Windermere, sold May 12, for $3,600,000. Built in 2007, it has five bedrooms, five baths, two half-baths and 6,472 square feet. Days on market: 51.
RESERVE AT WATERFORD POINTE
The home at 2008 Water Key Drive, Windermere, sold May 16, for $1,143,000. Built in 2000, it has four bedrooms, three-andone-half baths and 3,273 square feet. Days on market: 28.
WINDERMERE
The home at 12002 McKinnon Road, Windermere, sold May 15, for $1,300,000. Built in 1985, it has four bedrooms, three-andone-half baths and 3,577 square feet. Days on market: 31.
WINDSOR HILL
The home at 2746 Park Royal Drive, Windermere, sold May 16, for $920,000. Built in 1990, it has five bedrooms, three baths and 2,878 square feet. Days on market: 28.
WINTER GARDEN
ALEXANDER RIDGE
The home at 2081 Nerva Road, Winter Garden, sold May 14, for $700,000. Built in 2015, it has five bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 3,777 square feet. Days on market: 150.
BELLE MEADE
The home at 15143 Ovation Drive, Winter Garden, sold May 14, for $915,000. Built in 2010, it has seven bedrooms, four baths and 4,692 square feet. Days on market: 22.
The home at 15336 Firelight Drive, Winter Garden, sold May 13, for $550,000. Built in 2007, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,242 square feet. Days on market: 85.
FOXCREST
The home at 12655 Dallington Terrace, Winter Garden, sold May 13, for $725,000. Built in 2007, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,630 square feet. Days on market: Two.
HICKORY HAMMOCK
The home at 15107 Lake Claire Overlook Drive, Winter Garden, sold May 13, for $1,075,000. Built in 2017, it has five bedrooms, four baths and 3,908 square feet. Days on market: 58.
OAKLAND PARK
The home at 896 Tilden Oaks Trail, Winter Garden, sold May 12, for $890,000. Built in 2022, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 2,268 square feet. Days on market: 57.
The home at 1073 Sadler Oaks Way, Winter Garden, sold May 13, for $879,000. Built in 2023, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 2,246 square feet. Days on market: 28.
REGENCY OAKS
The home at 643 Willett Drive E., Winter Garden, sold May 17, for $540,000. Built in 2005, it has four bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 2,523 square feet. Days on market: Nine.
STONEYBROOK WEST
The home at 1101 Maidenmoor Road sold May 15, for $525,000. Built in 2000, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,609 square feet. Days on market: One.
Theodore Hess Geltz Jr. (Ted) went to be with the Lord on Saturday, May 24, 2025, while enjoying his lifelong hobby at Sebring International Raceway.
He was a resident of Winter Garden and Central Florida, both West Orange and South Lake County.
Ted was born March 8, 1950, in Washington D.C., the son of Col. Theodore Hess Geltz “Spike” and Patty McLean Hardison Geltz.
Ted attended Florida Southern College in Lakeland, Florida, where he earned his Bachelor of Science Degree in Citrus Production. He also had EMT, Emergency Medical Technician, certification for the fire department prior to starting his career in the citrus and agricultural industry.
Ted joined Hi-Acres based in Lake County, Florida, shortly after graduation, where he spent most of career. His career in the citrus and agricultural industry spanned more than 35 years. This led him to participate in multiple groups and organizations throughout his career, including Florida Southern Citrus Club, Orange County Farm Bureau past president, Winter Garden Citrus
Jeffrey Robert Andrew, 60, of Windermere, died Saturday, May 31, 2025. Woodlawn Funeral Home & Memorial Park, Gotha.
Donald Beikman, 79, of Winter Garden, died Monday, May 5, 2025. DeGusipe Funeral Home & Crematory — West Orange Chapel, Ocoee.
Doris J. Boatwright, 88, of Orlando, died Wednesday, May 28, 2025. Woodlawn Funeral Home & Memorial Park, Gotha.
Jorgo “George” Cama, 84, died Tuesday, May 13, 2025. Collison Carey Hand Funeral Home, Winter Garden.
Maria Rosa Cannatella (Barrancotto), 97, died Tuesday, May 20, 2025. DeGusipe Funeral Home & Crematory — West Orange Chapel, Ocoee.
Stephen F. Froelicher, 67, died Sunday, June 1, 2025. Winter Oak Funeral Home & Cremations, Winter Garden.
Growers Association, Old Timers Club and Hillbillies. Ted also was a member of Winter Garden Rotary Club, which included serving as President.
He had a passion for sports car racing, which he was introduced to by his father at a young age. In the 1970s, Ted joined SCCA, Sports Car Club of America. He always looked forward to spending time at the race track, especially Sebring International Raceway. Ted and Sara raised their three sons at Oakland Presbyterian Church and Monteagle Sunday School Assembly. Ted also was an active member at Mosaic Church in Winter Garden, where his Love for Christ and charismatic charm led to many meaningful relationships in his church community. He also loved nature and animals, specifically dogs, which he got from his mother. He had a sweet spot for boxers, golden retriev-
Juan “Nine” Antonio Gonzalez 102, of Orlando, died Thursday, May 29, 2025. Woodlawn Funeral Home & Memorial Park, Gotha.
Emma Ruth Greene, 70, of Ocoee, died Friday, May 16, 2025. Collison Carey Hand Funeral Home, Winter Garden.
Carmen Ana Maldonado Herrera 84, died Monday, May 12, 2025. Baldwin-Fairchild Winter Garden Funeral Home.
Kathleen “Kathy” Hillson, 71, of Winter Garden, died Wednesday, May 21, 2025. Collison Carey Hand Funeral Home, Winter Garden.
Richard Paul (Bud) Hosier Jr. 82, of Apopka, died Wednesday, May 28, 2025. Woodlawn Funeral Home & Memorial Park, Gotha.
Theodore Wesley Jackubowski 89, died Wednesday, May 28, 2025. Winter Oak Funeral Home & Cremations, Winter Garden.
ers and goldendoodles, but would never turn away a stray.
Every year, he eagerly looked forward to time with family and friends at Monteagle Sunday School Assembly. A family legacy started by his grandfather C.M. Hardison. Carrying on MSSA traditions held a special place in his heart, and passing these traditions down to his three sons and grandchildren brought him great joy.
He is survived by his three sons, Theodore Hess Geltz III “Tad” (Erika), Mitchell Hawthorne Geltz (Ashlee) and Adam Hardison Geltz (Amanda); and his five grandchildren whom he adored, Hadlee, Hardison, Pallen, Mattie and Miller.
He is predeceased by his wife, Sara H. Geltz; father, Theodore “Spike”; mother, Patty; and his brother, Andrew Geltz.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 10 a.m. Monday, June 9, at Mosaic Church Winter Garden, 14175 W. Colonial Drive, Winter Garden. The Celebration of Life Service will be live-streamed for friends and family who are not able to attend in person.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Mosaic Church Winter Garden or Monteagle Sunday School Assembly, monteaglesundayschoolassembly.org.
Raymond “Ray” Jackson Mann 81, of Orlando, died Monday, May 26, 2025. Woodlawn Funeral Home & Memorial Park, Gotha.
Colleen Lee Radesi, 75, died Sunday, May 25, 2025. Winter Oak Funeral Home & Cremations, Winter Garden.
Marly Bencardino Rolim, 87, of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil died Saturday, May 24, 2025. Winter Oak Funeral Home & Cremations, Winter Garden.
Vincent Stanley Samosky, 89, of Clermont, died Monday, May 12, 2025. Baldwin-Fairchild Winter Garden Funeral Home.
Ellen L. (Cardwell) Silva, 75, of Gotha, died Friday, May 30, 2025, at Cornerstone Hospice. Winter Oak Funeral Home & Cremations, Winter Garden.
Norma (Jean) Slinker Wilder, 94, of Gotha, died Monday, May 26, 2025, at Winter Garden Health and Rehabilitation Center. Winter Oak Funeral Home & Cremations, Winter Garden.
TIMOTHY ALAN “TIMMY” JOHNSON DIED MAY 26, 2025.
Timothy Alan “Timmy” Johnson, 60, of Ocoee, Florida, passed away on May 26, 2025. Mr. Johnson was born on Jan. 26, 1965, in Orlando, Florida.
Mr. Johnson is preceded in death by his stepfather, Gary. He is survived his father, Leon C. “Rusty” (Marilyn) Johnson; mother, Linda Wagner; brother, Mark (Mindy) Johnson; sisters, Michelle (Shane) Sorenson, Lisa Johnson, Lesley (Billy) Croft, Melissa (Scott) Garrigan and Julie (Jeff) Hussing; nieces, Alexis (Yasin) Chentouf, Carissa Knight, Shay Knight, Mackenzie Sorenson, Ashely Sorenson, Olivia Johnson, Adalyn Johnson, Kendall Croft, Joanna Garrigan, Jaylin Garrigan, Kalynn Hussing and Oaklynn Hussing; as well as his nephews, Peyton Sorenson, Carter Johnson, Jaxon Croft, Jaxon Garrison and Brayden Hussing.
Timmy Johnson was a kindhearted, free spirit who deeply loved his entire family, loved his dogs, and who possessed a nevergive-up mentality. These qualities made Timmy a special son, brother, uncle and nephew to his large family.
During younger times, Timmy excelled at baseball and football, he was the ultimate teammate, one who was dependable and led by example.
Later in life, Timmy operated a successful business in the landscape and lawn sector. Timmy treated everyone equally in life and loved to do things for others when they least expected it. He will be dearly missed by his many loved ones and friends. A gathering of friends will be held from 10 to 11 a.m. June 6 at Stark Lake Baptist Church, 611 West Ave., Ocoee, followed by a memorial service at 11 a.m.
To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Mr. Timothy Alan “Timmy” Johnson, please visit loomisfuneralhomes.com/obituaries.
JEFFREY WALLACE PEACOCK
DIED MAY 9, 2025.
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Jeff Peacock, who left this world on May 9, 2025, at the age of 47. Born on Feb. 4, 1978, Jeff brought warmth, laughter and kindness to every life he touched.
A devoted father, Jeff found his greatest joy and pride in raising his two sons, Joey and Josh. His love for them was unwavering, and he embraced every moment of fatherhood with passion and gratitude. His boys were the center of his world, and he never let a day pass without showing them how deeply he cared.
Jeff was the beloved son of Don and Cherie Peacock, the brother of Amy Peacock, uncle to Kaelyn Peacock and boyfriend to Alyssa Kirwan.
A longtime Florida Gators fan, Jeff’s enthusiasm for his team was infectious. He also had a special place in his heart for his dogs, who were never far from his side and always treated like family.
Jeff had an extraordinary gift for friendship. Whether you’d known him for years or just met him in passing, he had a way of making you feel welcome, valued and understood. His smile lit up rooms, and his laughter was the kind you never forgot. Though Jeff’s time with us was far too short, the impact he made will be felt for generations. He will be remembered for his big heart, his deep love for family, and the way he treated everyone like a friend. He will be deeply missed and forever loved.
A celebration of life was held May 31 in Winter Garden. In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to be made in Jeff’s memory to the Humane Society of North Central Florida.
THE WAYS WE WERE FROM THE WINTER GARDEN HERITAGE FOUNDATION
80 years ago
Women were asked to help in the war effort by saving every drop of used cooking fat to replace industrial fats and oils needed for thousands of civilian and war products.
Activity in the seventh War Loan Drive was progressing with telling results. Winter Garden, Ocoee, Oakland and Windermere exceeded their quota in the early days of the campaign, but committee workers were not slowing down. By investing in the war loan, “the patriotic American was safeguarding his own future and his country’s future.” Joe Fairchild was standing by at the First National Bank to issue bonds in any denomination desired.
55 years ago
Brownies participating in a Girl Scout Troop 729 ceremony were Melodye Hendrix, Terri Moore, Sandra Roper, Elizabeth Walker and Megan Cloughley. Scouts receiving awards were Diane Long, Denise Adams, Lisa Sirmans and Michelle Ficquette.
The Charles R. Drew Training Center in Winter Garden held its first graduation exercises. William S. Maxey, retired principal of Drew High School, was commencement speaker.
Mary Mashburn was named the Winter Garden Inn’s new dining room hostess.
45 years ago
The city of Ocoee and Mayor Cliff Freeman proclaimed June 8 Evelyn Newberg Day. More than 200 friends, colleagues and former students attended the reception at Ocoee Elementary School to pay tribute to her and her 52-year dedicated career of teaching in Ocoee schools. Her first class was in 1928.
On June 5, 2002, the yellow “four-wheeler” paid a visit to the Central Florida Railroad Museum. From the early 1900s to the 1970s, these vehicles were used by the railroads for track inspection and maintenance. They were eventually replaced by trucks of all sizes, which continued the task of keeping tracks safe. The gentleman in the photo is unidentified. Can anyone help? Call (407) 656-3244.
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.
35 years ago
Hollywood film legend Steven Spielberg was joined by a large array of movie stars, including Jimmy Stewart, Ben Vereen, Angie Dickinson, Bill Cosby, Michael J. Fox and Sylvester Stallone, as he cut the ribbon for the grand opening of Universal Studios Florida.
30 years ago
The Orange County Environmental Department released the rankings of Orange County lakes,
and Lake Hickorynut held the No. 1 spot for best water quality, while Lake Apopka ranked the poorest in 136th place. Thirty-four of the 136 lakes were in West Orange County, and ranked third through 11th were Hickorynut South, Big Sand North, Butler, Big Sand South, Blanche, Hickorynut North, Bessie, Tibet Butler and Down. Also among the worst were Olivia (ranked 114th), Black (120th) and Tilden (131st).
20 years ago
Sgt. Greg Burgenstock, a teacher at Ocoee Middle School, received a rousing welcome back from his tour of duty in Iraq with the 505th Transportation Detachment, U.S. Army Reserve. OMS hosted a special assembly complete with patriotic songs and presentations.
JUNE 4, 1954
Local businesses were advertising their perfect gifts for graduates in the Winter Garden Times. Among them was Pittman Jewelry, which offered a nice selection of women’s Bulova watches in various designs — from petite bangle timepieces priced from $35 to $115 to sturdier watches with more than a dozen jewels costing up to $125. For the male
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MINED GAMES by Evan Park & Jeffrey Martinovic, edited by Jared Goudsmit
By Luis Campos
•
SPORTS
Swinging for the fences
Meet the 2025 All-Orange Observer baseball teams and Player of the Year.
SAM ALBUQUERQUE SPORTS EDITOR
Now that the 2025 spring high school sports season — along with the 2024-25 school year — officially has come to an end, it is time to take a look back and celebrate the amazing season West Orange and Southwest Orange teams had on the baseball diamond.
Along with a state championship team — The First Academy Royals — the area saw six programs reach the regional playoffs and a plethora of players receive postseason recognition such as selections to various all-star games.
To put a bow on the tremendous
performances area high school baseball fans saw in 2025, meet the All-Orange Observer baseball first and second teams and the Player of the Year.
Editor’s note: Players are listed by position, then alphabetically by last name.
FIRST TEAM PLAYER OF THE YEAR OF REMO INDOMENICO, THE FIRST ACADEMY, SENIOR Despite only picking up the sport in high school, The First Academy’s Remo Indomenico was the most dangerous bat in all of West Orange and Southwest Orange in 2025, hit-
SEE OBSERVER PAGE 3B
Foundation Academy breaks ground on new track, athletic facilities
Along with the new track, Lions Field will see expanded seating and a new press box, while its baseball field will have a new concession/restroom facility.
Foundation Academy has broken ground on a plethora of construction projects and upgrades to its Tilden Campus’ athletics facilities.
“We are currently building a track facility with the specifications needed to host any FHSAA meet,” Robert East Athletic Director and Director of Operations said. “We are also adding expanded seating to (Lions) Field in order to service (track-and-field), football, soccer and lacrosse. We will also have a brand new press box with a film deck on top to service these sports. Finally, we are adding a concession stand and restroom building to the west side of campus to serve baseball, beach volleyball and the other field space on that side of campus.”
Established in 1958 as part of Winter Garden’s First Baptist Church, Foundation Academy has seen sig-
nificant growth in recent years, both in its facilities and in its student population. In September, the school opened a state-of-the-art classroom facility for its high school students, which included a conference room, computer lab — decked out with new iMac computers — a coding-specific classroom and a broadcast studio. The new building made room for an additional 325 students.
“I have been privileged to be at Foundation Academy for 10 years, and I have seen the fruits of our efforts,” East said. “We have seen the addition of an expanded weight room, infrastructure such as roads, lighting and parking, the construction of a cafeteria and a new classroom building, and now the beginning of our athletic complex enhancements. All of this serves only the purpose of partnering with families to provide a Christ-centered education. We are able to reach more families with expanded facili-
ties and the quality of the experience is only growing.” This latest upgrade is another sign the
1
The West Orange Dream Center is set to host a women’s self-defense class led by Windermere Police Chief Dave Ogden from 9 a.m. to noon, Saturday, June 7. Those interested in attending the event can expect to learn practical tools to avoid and respond to conflict, gain insight into how the body and mind react in stressful situations and learn simple and effective martial arts techniques taught through a biblical lens by a lifelong martial artist. To register for the event, visit wodreamcenter.org/ selfdefense. A $10 donation is required to attend; however you can request a scholarship or request more information by emailing kim@wodreamcenter. org.
2
West Orange High star football player Devonte Anderson has announced the final eight college football programs he is considering committing to and that he will officially announce his commitment next month.
The programs are UCF, Maryland, Miami, Louisville, Rutgers, Auburn, Michigan State and Iowa.
A 6-foot-1, 185-pound threestar defensive back and wide receiver, Anderson was a vital piece in the Warriors 2024 success — totaling 897 all-purpose yards, five touchdowns, three interceptions, 10 pass deflections and 38 total tackles.
3
Foundation Academy has announced the hiring of Brandon Venetta as its lower school sports coordinator.
“I have lived in Florida for the past 14 years and gained the passion of teaching when I became a father,” Venetta said in a prepared statement. “Our family is so grateful to be joining the (F.A. family) and can’t wait to see what God has in store for this next chapter.” The Colorado native — who grew up playing multiple sports, with a focus on basketball — is a graduate of Colorado State University, with a bachelor’s degree in applied human science and a minor in business administration.
4
Olympia High boys basketball player Nicholas Blake, son of NCAA National Champion and former NBA player Steve Blake, has announced his commitment to play college basketball for his father’s alma mater, the Maryland Terrapins.
The 6-foot-2 sharpshooting guard averaged 10.6 points, 2.6 rebounds and 1.3 assists in 28 games in his lone season for the Titans, after transferring from Windermere High.
5
West Orange football’s 2024 starting quarterback and do-it-all athlete Brian Dillard has announced he will be transferring to The First Academy for the 2025 football season.
“Proverbs 3:6 In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths,” Dillard wrote in an Instagram post. “Excited to announce I’ll be continuing my high school and football journey (at) The First Academy.” Dillard, a three-star prospect with offers from Purdue, USF, West Virginia, Pitt and others, had a total of 2,719 all-purpose yards, 27 touchdowns and caught two interceptions for the Warriors in 2024.
Former Winter Garden Little Leaguer and current West Texas
A&M baseball player Anthony Picciano is back on a West Orange diamond with the Winter Garden Squeeze. Page 2B.
Courtesy of Foundation Academy On the west side of Foundation’s Tilden campus upgrades a new scoreboard has been installed at the baseball field.
TFA’s Remo Indomenico slammed a home run in the Royals opening playoff game.
Windermere High’s Randy Ruiz Jr. prepared to swing at a pitch during a home game against West Orange High.
Photos by Sam Albuquerque
Anthony Picciano
With the Winter Garden Squeeze 2025 season kicking off this past week, fans will notice a litany of former area little leaguers and high school players up and down the Squeeze lineup. One of those familiar faces and names is former Winter Garden Little Leaguer and Montverde Academy player Anthony Picciano, who currently plays college baseball at West Texas A&M.
The former Eagles baseball captain and member of the school’s Class 2A state championship winning track-and-field team in 2022, returns to West Orange County with the Squeeze after spending his freshman season playing for the Division II program in Canyon, Texas as an outfielder and right-handed pitcher. THE BASICS
How does it feel to be named Athlete of the Week?
It’s an honor to be recognized as the Athlete of the Week. It highlights the dedication and effort I invest in my sport.
What do you enjoy the most about baseball?
I enjoy the challenges of baseball that other sports don’t have.
What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned from baseball?
The biggest lesson I’ve learned from baseball is no matter what happens in the game, you have to try to keep a level head.
What is your favorite baseball memory?
My favorite baseball memory is hitting a walk-off home run at West Texas A&M during my freshman year.
Who is your favorite athlete?
Chicago Cubs outfielder Pete Crow-Armstrong because of the flare and energy he brings to the game.
What is your go-to pre-game meal?
Chicken parmesan.
What is your go-to pre-game hype song?
“All Eyez on Me” by Tupac.
What is your favorite nonsports hobby?
I love to travel.
from the Outdoor Boys to help me survive and water, because you need water.
What is your favorite movie? “War Dogs” because I think it is hilarious.
If you could have dinner with one person — dead or alive — who would it be?
I’d have dinner with Kevin Hart, just so he could make me laugh.
If you could go back in time to a specific period in history, when and where would you go?
Ancient Rome so I could watch the gladiators battle at The Colosseum.
Looking back, what piece of advice would you give your younger self?
Don’t rush.
If you could ask your future self a question, what would it be? Where am I financially?
Who is your favorite superhero?
Batman because he doesn’t have any superpowers. He’s just a normal guy.
Who is your favorite supervillain? Why?
The Joker because he’s crazy and unpredictable.
If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?
Teleportation because I can instantly travel.
If you could travel to three places in the world, where would you go and why?
Italy to see where my family is originally from; Thailand because I have family there; and Australia because I think that would be the most fun country to visit.
If you could be an animal for a day, which one would you be
Any type of bird, so I could fly.
What is your most controPineapple doesn’t belong on
Does pineapple belong on — SAM ALBUQUERQUE
COACH WELLS’ CLOSET: Dr. Phillips football coach donates clothing to students
SAM ALBUQUERQUE SPORTS EDITOR
For about two decades now, following his college football playing days at Syracuse, Rodney Wells has dedicated his professional life to giving back to the school he calls home, Dr. Phillips High, first serving as Panthers football’s defensive coordinator for six seasons then as head coach since 2011.
There’s no question, given the unprecedented success he’s had in charge of the DP football program, that Wells could have left his alma mater for more lucrative coaching opportunities. But if you know anything about the Panthers’ former star linebacker, you know he bleeds Panther blue. Because of his love and commitment for the program and the school overall, it’s easy to believe the most successful football coach in program history would jump at the opportunity to give back to the students that roam the halls he once did.
That’s exactly what he did when a DP student made an observation about Wells donating some of his lightly worn gear to some of his football players.
“If you know anything about football players, they’re always asking for gear,” Wells said. “They are always wanting some swag, and most coaches have gear from colleges they’ve played for or coached at. So the guys are always like, ‘Hey coach let me get that shirt.’ So for like more than 10 years at this point, myself and coaches on the staff, we would bring some of our lightly worn stuff ... and give it out once or twice a year, just depending on how much stuff we can bring together. So we were doing that recently at my office, and I gave the football player some stuff, and they got hyped in the hallway and a student, that’s not one of my players noticed them and said something like, ‘Dang coach, y’all always take care of the football team. All y’all do is give them stuff.’ He said it jokingly, but he was right, and it gave me the idea to open this up for everybody at DP.”
That’s when Coach Wells’ Closet was born.
The idea is simple: Put a call out to the folks with whom Wells has built relationships and ask them to donate gear for the Panthers student body.
“I got a lot — way more than I thought I would get,” Wells said.
“Guys like Dan LaForest and Lo Wood, one the deans here at Dr. Phillips gave us a bunch of donations. So did some of the teachers and administrators at the school.
Coach Sam Brown, from the girls basketball team gave us a lot of stuff too. I mean, we had bags and bags of clothes, and (as) this all unfolded, it just happened that we did this on the last day of school … and it was a huge success.”
Not only is this concept something Wells enjoys to do because of the relationships he had with current DP students but also — because of his lifelong journey as a Panther
HOW TO HELP
To support Coach Wells’ Closet or donate lightly worn or new clothing for the event, email rodney.wells@OCPS.net.
— he’s pouring into students that are connected to his former classmates, teammates and even the children of some of his former players.
“Dr. Phillips is home,” Wells said.
“A lot of those students, I either played with their parents or went to school with their parents. I’m getting old now and it’s crazy to see but I’m even getting some of my former players’ kids at the school now. I love these kids; I love this community; I love the school. So it feels really good to be able to give back to the kids, especially knowing that a lot of the stuff we gave away was brand new, some even had tags on them.”
dent athlete experience at Foundation Academy,” East said. “Last year, we hosted a cross-country meet at home for the first time in six years, and this gave our team and their families the chance to compete without travel. We will be expanding our cross country opportunities on our campus next year and adding (track-and-field) to this. ... And the expanded seating and concessions
creates opportunities for revenue to support the overall program.”
The addition of a new track, the 1,000-seat expansion at Lions Field and new facilities on the campus’ west side are just a few examples of the recent athletics-specific additions to the school. East knows the impact these new facilities have on the school’s mission of providing the highest quality education in a Christ-centered environment.
“Foundation Academy offers
families the opportunity to have a partner in the development of students spiritually, physically, mentally and socially,” East said. “The campus enhancements we are constructing will obviously support the physical growth of student athletes. It is our desire that these facilities be used in a manner that also supports the spiritual, social and mental development of student athletes!” Construction on the new facilities are set to be completed this August.
Courtesy of Rodney Wells
Dr. Phillips football coach Rodney Wells organized a school-wide clothing donation event dubbed “Coach Wells’ Closet” on the final day of the 2024-25 school year.
Courtesy of Foundation Academy
Observer names area’s top players
ting for an average of .466 (48-for103) with an on-base percentage of .562.
The 6-foot, 185-pound Oklahoma State signee — and possible 2025 MLB Draft selection — not only hit for average, but also brought an explosive element to the Royals offense, hitting 11 home runs, driving in 44 runs and scoring 49 runs. He also posed a threat as a baserunner, stealing 27 bases. Along with a lineup full of dangerous hitters and as deep of a pitching staff as it comes, the Chicago-native helped lead the Royals to a 30-4 record, the No. 8 slot on the season’s final MaxPreps national high school ranking and the Class 2A state championship.
C AUSTIN PIERZYNSKI, THE FIRST ACADEMY, SENIOR.
The son of former Big League pitcher A.J. Pierzynski, Austin Pierzynski led the Royals on the field from the behind the plate and in the batter’s box — hitting for an average of .333 (29-for-87) with a .500 OBP, 31 runs, 33 RBIs, three home runs, 23 stolen bases and a .986 fielding percentage. He also was a leader for the area’s lone state title team.
INF MIGUEL ACOSTA, WEST ORANGE HIGH, JUNIOR.
In his first season as a member of the Warriors program, Acosta established himself as a vital piece of the club’s success, leading West Orange with 30 hits, a .353 batting average, 24 runs scored and 18 stolen bases. The junior infielder also added 15 RBIs and two home runs on the season, helping the Warriors to a 20-9 record — the program’s best record since 2017.
INF JOSE MASSANET, HORIZON HIGH, SENIOR.
With a team-high batting average of .385 (30-for-78) and 27 runs scored — along with 13 runs batted in and five stolen bases — Massanet helped lead the Hawks to the program’s first regional playoff appearance and the most wins in its history.
INF CASEY NIPPER, CENTRAL FLORIDA CHRISTIAN ACADEMY, SENIOR.
As the Eagles top hitter and pitcher, Nipper was one of the most dynamic players in the area this season. From the plate, he hit for an average of .481 (26-for-54), scored 23 runs, drove in 22 runs and stole 29 bases. As CFCA ace pitcher, he struck out 80 batters in 35 innings pitched and held opponents to a .071 average.
OF KINON BASTIAN, THE FIRST ACADEMY, SOPHOMORE.
After playing in just eight games last season, the sophomore outfielder broke into the Royals starting lineup and became a big-time contributor to their championship run. From the plate, Bastian hit for an average of .397 (31-for-78), scored 35 runs, drove in another 18, hit four homers and stole 21 bases.
OF BLAKE FIELDS, THE FIRST ACADEMY, SENIOR. Along with Indomenico, Fields was one half of the dynamic one-two punch that led the Royals offense, hitting for an average of .439 (43for-98), scoring 46 runs, driving in 26 runs and hitting four homers.
OF RANDY RUIZ JR., WINDERMERE HIGH, JUNIOR.
In his third season of varsity ball, Ruiz Jr. continues to show why he’s one of the top prospects in the area.
With a team-leading eight homers, 34 runs scored and 31 hits — for an average of .365 — to go along with 23 RBIs and seven stolen bases — the son of a former Big Leaguer led a young Wolverines teams with a new coach to a 22-8 record, a West Metro Conference championship, a district championship and an appearance in the 7A regional playoffs.
P SIMS MCCLUSKY, WEST ORANGE HIGH, SR. As the ace of a loaded Warriors pitching staff, McClusky was vital to West Orange’s success in 2025, holding the opposition to a .199
batting average and striking out 50 batters across 52 innings pitched. McClusky finished the season with 5-0 pitching record and a 2.15 ERA.
P KYLE HOPPER, THE FIRST ACADEMY, SENIOR. With a 9-1 pitching record, a 1.90 ERA and 74 strikeouts across 62.2 innings pitched, Hopper was lights out as the Royals lead arm during their championship run.
P THOMAS ACHEY, THE FIRST ACADEMY, SENIOR. The Stetson signee was as clutch as it came in 2025, serving as TFA’s series-closing pitcher, getting the win in both Game 2 of the Regional Championship series and the State Championship game. In 42.1 innings pitched, Achey threw 70 strikeouts, maintained an ERA of 1.32, held opposition batters to an average of .164 and finished the season with an 8-1 pitching record.
SECOND TEAM
C JOSE TAVERAS, FOUNDATION ACADEMY, JUNIOR. .341 batting average (31-for-91), 10 runs, 24 RBIs and two home runs.
INF SERICO ALLEN, OCOEE HIGH, JUNIOR. .388 batting average (26-for-67), 36 runs, 21 RBIs, two home runs and 13 stolen bases.
INF DIEGO DIAZ, DR. PHILLIPS HIGH, JUNIOR. .425 batting average (34-for-80), 19 runs, 13 RBIs and 18 stolen bases.
INF SAMUEL GRANDE, OLYMPIA HIGH, SOPHOMORE. .345 batting average (29-for-84), 20 runs and 16 RBIs.
INF DUBLIN WARREN, WINDERMERE HIGH, SENIOR. .357 batting average (25-for-70), 16 runs, 27 RBIs and three home runs.
OF ETHAN RATHMANN, OLYMPIA HIGH, JUNIOR. .364 batting average (30-for-77), 30 runs, three home runs and 20 stolen bases.
OF BARAK BOSTON, FOUNDATION ACADEMY, SENIOR. .453 batting average (24-for-53), 23 runs, 15 RBIs, one home run and 19 stolen bases.
OF DWIGHT O’NEAL, OCOEE HIGH, SENIOR. .414 batting average (29-for-70), 22 runs, 18 RBIs and 26 stolen bases.
OF ALEX GALAN, HORIZON HIGH, SENIOR. .365 batting average, (31-for-85), 36 runs, 13 RBIs, four home runs and seven stolen bases.
P MICHAEL SURANE, FOUNDATION ACADEMY, SENIOR. 49.2 innings pitched, 42 strikeouts, 2.40 ERA and .180 opposition batting average.
P CONNOR FINK, WINDERMERE HIGH, SR. 50.2 innings pitched, 63 strikeouts, 2.76 ERA, 3-3 pitching record and .240 opposition batting average.
P MICHAEL SINGER, HORIZON HIGH, SOPHOMORE. 47 innings pitched, 61 strikeouts, 1.79 ERA, 4-0 pitching record and .207 opposition batting average.
West Orange High junior Miguel Acosta sprinted to third base.
Photo by Thomas Lightbody | TK Photography
TFA senior pitcher Thomas Achey warmed up before a playoff game.
Photos by Sam Albuquerque
TFA catcher Austin Pierzynski caught a pitch during the Royals run to a state title.
West Orange ace pitcher Sims McClusky launched a pitch to home plate.
Royals sophomore star Kinon Bastian ran on the field before the start of a TFA playoff game.
INFLUENCER
MARIA SALAZAR PATHWAYS FOR LIFE ACADEMY
Maria Salazar is a parent volunteer for Pathways for Life Academy. She makes sure everyone feels comfortable walking in a sanitized environment.
“She volunteers a lot and never ever asks for anything in return,” said Crista McDonough, a fellow Pathways for Life Academy parent. “Pathways is a very small school, so everyone there goes above and beyond what us parents could have ever dared to ask, and they all deserve special recognition, but Maria most definitely deserves a shout out.”
What is the most rewarding part of volunteering for the school? It’s incredibly special. Every classroom reminds me what really matters.
How has volunteering at your child’s school enriched your life? I’ve met some amazing parents juggling similar challenges.
Pathways for Life Academy, a private school for students with learning differences in sixth through 12th grade, offers teachers and staff who will work with the students to ensure they graduate with a diploma, address behavioral issues, teach life skills and more. In the 2024-2025 school year, the school had 17 students enrolled. The school opened in August 2020 in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic and moved to Quest Church in Gotha in the 20232024 school year.
The school has a close-knit parent community willing to help the students and staff with whatever is needed.
Who influences you?
Michelle Obama and every working mom.
Who was your favorite teacher when you were in school? Why?
My fifth-grade teacher. She saw something in me before I did. She made me believe that creativity wasn’t just a hobby.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
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“(Salazar) always helps along with the students to clean our building and to keep it safe for all staff and students,” said Patty Myers the executive director of Pathways for Life Academy. “She has helped our students also with our cooking classes and assists them with clean up too. She has transported our student interns to their job sites. Her spirit is always positive, and she has a willing and servant heart. We couldn’t get it all done without her help. She is a wonderful and loving person that has helped us in so many ways. She is also good at fixing things in our building too. We can’t thank her enough for helping us all these years.”
What brought you to your school?
(It’s) the strong sense of community and its focus on creativity and individuality.
What do you love most about your school?
(I love) how the school values every child’s voice. There is an effort to make learning hands on and to inspire children.
REPORT CARD
SCHOOL: Pathways for Life
Academy
POSITION: Volunteer TIME AT SCHOOL: Two years
Spare time is rare, but when I had it I read something not related to work.
If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?
It would be a dream for managing work, family and still finding a moment to breathe.
If you could only listen to two bands or artists, who would they be and why?
Stevie Wonder always lifts my spirit. Billie Holiday (because) her voice tells stories in a way words alone can’t.
What was your go-to lunch and favorite snack as an elementary student?
Banana sandwich and Cheetos! Pure joy.
What is your favorite holiday and why?
Christmas! Best family times together.
Who was your best friend when you were in school? My sister.
LIZ RAMOS
Hats off to the graduates
Some Windermere Preparatory School graduates had fun decorating their graduation caps for the ceremony.
While some students focused on a favorite character or superhero, other students decided to put quotes of significance to them or photos of friends and loved ones on their caps.
But no matter the design on their cap, each of the graduates in Windermere Preparatory School’s Class of 2025 was thrilled to be receiving their diplomas during their graduation ceremony Friday, May 23, at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts.
— LIZ RAMOS
We
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Graduates Sasha Vallabhaneni, Lucas Golden, Daniel Goebel Guzman and Nattalie Merk each gave speeches at the ceremony.
Graduates took a moment to commemorate their graduation with a selfie.
Caroline Schools and Dominic Tarantino were thrilled to be graduating.
Steven Murphy, the director of high school, shook hands with graduate Kaya Ozyurek after he received his diploma.
Above: Valentina Carvalho, Sara Vanemon, Darci MacAnthony, Eduarda Queiroz Santos took a moment to say their goodbyes.
Left: Graduates were all smiles as they took their seats at the ceremony.
Courtesy photos
‘Compassion starts with you’
Marc Stomprud, the Central Florida Christian Academy head of school, had an inspiring message for the Class of 2025.
He said as he pondered what to include in his first commencement address as the head of school, one word kept coming to mind: hope.
Stomprud said it was not a hope out of desperation or hopelessness but rather he was hopeful.
“My one deep hope for not just the Class of 2025 but for all of you is a real genuine relationship with Jesus,” he said.
Stomprud’s message of hope wasn’t the only inspiring message graduates heard before accepting their diplomas, moving their tassels from the left side of their graduation caps to the right and throwing those caps in the air during their graduation ceremony Friday, May 23.
Valedictorian Bryan Nguyen encouraged his fellow graduates to be accountable and compassionate.
“Compassion starts with you,” he said.
Salutatorian Tavaria Parker passed on the words of encouragement she heard
from her parents growing up.
“Without pressure, diamonds cannot be made,” she said. “To the Class of 2025, keep going, never give up. The sky is the limit.”
— LIZ RAMOS
A lasting Legacy
All 45 Legacy High School seniors crossed the stage marking another year of 100% graduation rate at the charter school.
Legacy High School celebrated its Class of 2025 Saturday, May 24 in the school gym.
The ceremony started with an invocation by Michael Yoakum, a leadership instructor, who thanked God for the students’ success and the strength of the school community.
Principal Mario Medley then took the stage to greet the graduates and parents. He compared the emotions of the graduating seniors to those of his newborn son.
“Both are emotional rollercoasters,” he joked while addressing the crowd.
Medley later presented valedictorian Jordan Shoemaker with the school’s prestigious Eagle Award and graduate Hadassah Gusmao with the President’s Education Award.
Rachel Alexander, the Class of 2025 salutatorian, delivered her salutatory address. She thanked her family, friends and God for their support throughout her academic journey. Shoemaker also addressed her classmates, encouraging them to
carry their values into the next chapter of lives.
“Integrity is not about not messing up,” she said. “It’s owning up to it when we do.” — DEBRA
Graduates Semaj Washington, Marcus Lowe and Dylan Duchesne took a moment to share their appreciation for basketball coaches Albert Settles, center, and Jordan Gregory, right.
Graduate Semaj Washington hugged his mom Alundra Gibbs after walking across the stage and receiving his diploma.
Marc Stomprud, the head of school, presented a diploma to graduate Jaylen Butts, who has attended CFCA for three years.
Valedictorian Bryan Nguyen encouraged his fellow graduates to be accountable and compassionate. “Compassion starts with you,” he said.
Graduate Bryton Mizell walked into the auditorium with style.
Graduate Kamryn Richards was all smiles hugging her mom, Kimya Richards, with her diploma in hand.
Left: Mariah Jenkins and Hunter Mattsson said they were excited to be starting a new journey after graduation.
GARCIA
Rachel Alexander gave her salutatory address, thanking her friends, parents, siblings and God for her success. Students got dressed in their caps and gowns.
Above: Hannah Rittenberry signed a friend’s yearbook. She plans to attend Valencia College for radiology.
Right: Graduates walked into the school gym while Pomp and Circumstance played.
Hadassah Gusmao received the President’s Education Award, which is given to students who promoted citizenship in the school. She plans to attend the University of Florida to study political science.
WHOOP! WHOOP!
Windermere High School celebrated its Class of 2025 with a energetic graduation ceremony at 8 a.m. Wednesday, May 28, at Kia Center.
Graduates — decked out in navy and lime — were led into the Kia Center by a bagpiper. This year’s valedictorian is Kaila Reed, and salutatorian is Wyatt Anderson.
The Wolverines were all smiles as they listened to inspiring speeches and, ultimately, received their diplomas before streamers fell from the rafters.
For more photos, visit tk-photos. com.
MICHAEL ENG
PHOTOS BY THOMAS LIGHTBODY | TK PHOTOGRAPHY
BRAINFOOD
The Observer answers kids’ burning curiosities.
Hello, summer! I Michael Eng // Editor and Publisher
Oh, yes! It’s every kid’s favorite time of year! Like you, we are super excited about the start of summer. Gone are the long days at a desk in a classroom. Instead, you have sunshine, friends and maybe even a vacation to look forward to!
For this month’s Brain Food, we, too, are taking a break from the norm. Our graphic designer, Sarah Santiago, has created a special coloring page just for you. So take some time to create your perfect summer scene, and if you end up with something you like, make sure you take a photo of it and send it to us! My email is meng@orangeobserver.com. We’d love to feature them in a future edition! We hope you have an awesome summer break!
redpages@orangeobserver.com
Flip
But