06.10.21 West Orange Times & Observer

W E ST O RA N G E T I M E S &

Observer Winter Garden, Ocoee, Oakland

IN THIS ISSUE:

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THURSDAY, JUNE 10, 2021

Zeigler wants DNA testing

THE HEALING PROCESS The 2020-21 school year is over, and the pandemic is receding. For many parents, this the first time they can survey the mental and emotional damage left in its wake.

Winter Garden’s The Nurture Place is helping kids heal. Pages 6-7.

Attorneys for Tommy Zeigler, convicted for four murders in 1975, say new tests will prove innocence. 2.

Taylor tough

YOUR TOWN CHAMBER TO CELEBRATE EXTRAORDINARY WOMEN

Ocoee firefighter Taylor Pageau is recovering after surgery to remove a noncancerous brain tumor.

STORY ON PAGE 4.

Courtesy

Taylor Pageau, in the middle of the back row, had only been with the Ocoee Fire Department for two months when his tumor was discovered.

See the week’s top sales A home in Oakland Park topped all Winter Garden sales at $1.35 million.

Sales remain strong throughout the West Orange area.

SEE PAGE 9.

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Country club plans renovation The owners of the West Orange Country Club will install new greens and an irrigation system — much to the delight of members.

SEE PAGE 5.

SCHOOL ZONE

The West Orange Chamber of Commerce is holding an in-person celebration of four extraordinary women from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, June 16, at the Ocoee Lakeshore Center, 125 N. Lakeshore Drive, Ocoee.

Women are invited to hear from these four as they share their stories, struggles and successes. Scheduled to speak are Kamia Brown, state representative for District 45; the Honorable Gisela T. Laurent, the first Hispanic County Court Judge and now judge for the Circuit Court Criminal Division 11; Sandra G. Hostetter, regional president for Central Florida at Truist Financial Corp.; and Ocoee native Rilla Tomyn, owner of Betty J’s Florist, a longtime Ocoee business that recently moved to Winter Garden.

For tickets, visit bit. ly/34ZGzzj or contact cwilson@wochamber.com.

PLAYING FOR KEEPS

Five Windermere Prep students start new foundation.

SEE PAGE 13.

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THURSDAY, JUNE 10 2021

Attorney general, state attorney at odds over DNA testing in Zeigler case State Attorney Monique Worrell gave the green light for new DNA testing in the Tommy Zeigler case, but the attorney general’s office is not on board.

DANIELLE HENDRIX ASSOCIATE EDITOR

A couple of weeks ago, State Attorney Monique Worrell backed a request for DNA testing in Tommy Zeigler’s death-penalty case.

However, the office of Florida Attorney General is pushing back and states the agreement didn’t comply with state procedural rules.

Worrell’s office filed a joint motion with Zeigler’s attorneys May 20 requesting the release of any evidence requested to a laboratory for the purpose of DNA testing.

“I was just delighted that Ms. Worrell was wiling to cooperate and work with us to seek the truth,” said Ralph Hadley, Zeigler’s attorney. “It really bothered me that the prior state attorneys and attorney general were so much more interested in getting an execution done than seeking the truth.”

Zeigler, 75, has spent more than four decades on death row after being convicted in the Christmas Eve 1975 murder of his wife, Eunice; her parents, Perry and Virginia Edwards; and a customer, Charles Mays; at the family’s furniture store in Winter Garden.

Then 30, Zeigler was charged while in the hospital days after the quadruple murder. Prosecutors believe his motive was two life-

insurance policies of $500,000 total, which he took out on his wife prior to the murders. They maintain he shot himself in the abdomen in an attempt to frame Mays and two other men.

Zeigler has maintained his innocence, saying he was shot by the burglars and left to die. Zeigler also has said the increase in the amount of his wife’s life-insurance policy was pursuant to advice on an estate plan, according to court records.

Hadley said new DNA testing would prove Ziegler’s innocence.

In the June 1 notice from Moody’s office, though, Assistant Attorney General Patrick Bobek wrote that rules for post-conviction DNA testing in Florida require a defendant must testify under oath about the evidence to be tested, as well as

Tommy Zeigler

their innocence and how new testing would exonerate them.

It’s not the first time DNA testing has been done in Zeigler’s case. In 2005, DNA tests failed to conclude Mays was the perpetrator. Zeigler’s case has been denied DNA analyses in 2013, 2016 and 2017.

“Previous DNA testing has failed to exonerate Zeigler, and he has been unable to show how any further testing could contradict the testimony of the several witnesses who make his version of events impossible and unbelievable,” Bobek wrote.

Post-conviction DNA testing also requires prosecutors to be notified — in this case, Moody.

Kylie Mason, deputy communications director for Moody’s office, said its Capital Appeals Division notified the court of obligations regarding certain findings and

testing required pursuant to Florida rules of criminal procedure.

“Normally, as co-counsel for the state of Florida, the division and local prosecutors work together to reach an agreement on case strategy then jointly file any document seeking proposed relief from the court,” Mason said. “In this matter, a stipulation was filed on behalf of the state of Florida unbeknownst to the division, as a co-counsel in the case, and without complying with Florida law, which compelled our office to notify the court.”

Hadley said the agreement was an application by the state attorney’s office joined by the defense.

“It’s a win-win for the state,” he said. “If the evidence does what I think it will do — and that is prove him innocent — then they’re not going to execute an innocent man.

That’s a win. If, on the other hand, I’m wrong ... and it proves him guilty, then they can go to bed at night knowing they did their job. ... Why would they not be willing to seek the truth?”

According to court records, no hearings in Zeigler’s case have been scheduled.

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Town presents updates on Butler project Staff from Windermere and Kimley-Horn hosted a workshop to provide updates on the ongoing Butler basin stormwater drainage-improvements project.

DANIELLE HENDRIX ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Windermere residents had another opportunity for input regarding the ongoing Butler drainage improvements project through a public workshop June 3.

Town staff and Kimley-Horn representatives were on hand to provide project updates and field any questions or concerns. Solutions for stormwater-drainage improvements have been in the works for months now.

Windermere received grants through the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program following Hurricane Irma to allow staff to move forward with such projects to help alleviate flooding issues.

“Hopefully, we’ve been able to develop a plan that will work for

you all but at the same time work for the protection and engineering of our lakes,” town resident and engineer John Fitzgibbon said. “That’s kind of the compromise we’re always trying to achieve. At the end of the day, our biggest picture here is to protect the lakes, our town and our charm.”

Town Manager Robert Smith reminded attendees the design plans still must be approved by Town Council, so there will be more opportunities for public input.

“Once we get to 100% (design), then we can go ahead and have another workshop, bring it to Town Council, have them approve it, and then we can go ahead and move forward with construction,” Smith said. “Again, this is a Hazard Mitigation Grant Program funded through FEMA and

the state, so we have some timelines that we have to meet. But we believe that what we’re going to design will meet the intent of the grant so it’s not coming out of the stormwater fund or the town coffers.”

Hao Chau, of Kimley-Horn, summarized the current design plans to help alleviate the flooding issues. The 45% design plans are available for viewing on the town website.

“The three main tenets we learned from the study are (to) keep the roads dirt, keep their existing widths and their charm, and also avoid tree impacts,” Chau said. “Those three tenets were our guiding principles in establishing our 45% design and refining that from the study.”

Chau said Kimley-Horn plans to match the roads’ existing grades as much as possible and pitch them away from areas that are currently prone to flooding.

“We’re pitching the road away from the low-lying areas into swales where we can capture them, retain them and convey

FOR MORE INFORMATION The Butler Street drainageimprovement project has been a complex topic, and town staff has compiled associated documents and videos for residents.

To learn more, visit town.windermere.fl.us/butler-drainage.

them to the outfall in order to avoid the issues that you are currently experiencing,” he said.

At Butler Street and Sixth Avenue, the road will be sloped to the east, and a concrete shoulder gutter and gutter inlets will catch the stormwater flow and convey it south. Drop curbs will allow for smooth entrances into homeowners’ driveways.

“Because we have shoulder gutter and inlets here and because this is the upper part of the basin that doesn’t receive the majority of the runoff just yet, we were able to utilize the curving (to) avoid

‘Orange County Strong’ Courtesy

Orange County Mayor Jerry L. Demings shared accomplishments and challenges faced by local government, residents, businesses and community partners over the past year.

AMY QUESINBERRY COMMUNITY EDITOR

“As of today, we are no longer under a local state of emergency,” Mayor Jerry L. Demings said in his third State of Orange County address — a comment that was met with cheers from the audience. After 15 months, the stateof-emergency order was lifted Friday, June 4.

Demings presented his 2021 speech at the Orange County Convention Center, a place that, for the last year, has been the site of COVID-19 testing and, later, vaccinations.

“The past year has been difficult for all of us due to a oncein-a-century pandemic,” he said.

“But the story does not end there.”

According to the Florida Department of Health, the state maintained 15 straight days with

a COVID-19 positivity rate of 5% or lower.

“This means we will transition to Phase 3, where all Orange County mandates are lifted,” Demings said. “We are back on course for destination greatness.

We persevered through tough times.”

In his address, the mayor highlighted the challenges the county faced during the global pandemic but also focused on looking toward the future and building a community that works for all.

While unemployment peaked at 22.6%, it is down to 5.6%, Demings said. Air passenger traffic at Orlando International Airport, which plummeted by 97% in March and April 2020, has been one of the top five busiest airports in the nation in recent months. In 2019, Orange County saw 75 million visitors; a year later, there

were 35 million, with hotel closures and massive layoffs — but 2021 numbers are promising.

By rethinking budget priorities, Orange County government is maintaining long-term financial health. Fitch Ratings ranked the County with its highest credit rating — an AAA designation.

“Our fiscal health is good, and our bond ratings are as strong as ever,” Demings said.

He praised Central Florida’s largest theme parks — Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando and SeaWorld — for continuing their expansion projects, which will result in thousands of additional permanent jobs in the area.

“I am confident these theme park expansions … will provide a huge boost to our local community,” Demings said.

More than 90% of Orange County’s $243 million of federal

CARES Act funds was given to residents, including $69 million for small and home-based businesses, $67 million for individuals and families, $11 million for social-service agencies, $8 million for emergency food assistance and $7 million for jobtraining programs.

Additionally, the county distributed more than 25 million face masks and 1 million bottles of hand sanitizer throughout the community. Orange was one of the first counties in Central Florida to distribute free personal protective equipment, Demings said.

A number of large companies, including KPMG and Amazon, have embarked on major expansions, which will assist in economic recovery. White Castle recently opened its largest freestanding restaurant in Horizon West.

ditches in this area and avoid any impacts to existing septic systems and trees,” Chau said.

Moving farther south, everything naturally flows toward the lake. Kimley-Horn’s goal is to capture runoff before it gets to the lake and pitch the road so erosion issues are alleviated. Chau said the team is working with the public works department to find dirt-road material that will help with erosion control.

The main goal for Fernwood Park is to try to control the flow from Butler and Seventh so it doesn’t enter the park. Here, Kimley-Horn proposed vegetated swales and grading for the parking and driveway areas so runoff drains into them.

Finally, about halfway between Forest and Main streets, the Kimley-Horn team has proposed a V-shaped swale to help efficiently capture runoff.

“I know a lot of effort and care has gone into this, and I appreciate that,” said resident Annamaye Clonts.

The county established the first Housing Trust Fund to invest $10 million annually in public-private partnerships focused on the development of affordable and workforce housing. Additionally, the county launched its Industry Diversification Cluster Initiative as part of its economic stimulus strategy to spur job creation in industry sectors beyond tourism and hospitality.

Throughout the pandemic, Orange County continued to focus on promoting diversity, inclusion and equity. The county’s Martin Luther King Jr. Initiative provided programming on social reform, personal and financial health, literacy and volunteerism. Additionally, more than $3 million was allocated to 32 local arts organizations — including theaters and music and dance companies — to help safely reopen performance stages and welcome back guests.

Demings held about 135 COVID-19 conferences to keep the community informed of the pandemic and the latest measures taken by the state and county.

The county’s reopening brings the opportunity for higher revenues for the last half of the year.

In the fall, the Convention Center has booked 84 shows with 930,000 attendees and more than $1.3 million in hotel room nights.

The county’s rapid deployment of COVID-19 tests and vaccinations was due to many community partnerships. It also was one of the first counties to lower the vaccine age requirement and to create a mobile vaccination program for underserved communities. In addition, the county arranged for homebound residents in vulnerable community to receive vaccinations at their homes.

At this time, nearly 60% of the eligible population in the county has been vaccinated, he said.

In response to the hard work of county employees, Orange County has received seven national achievement awards.

“I want you to know (the county’s) future is bright,” he said. “We will continue to embrace diversity … continue to fight for affordable housing … continue to embrace collaboration … and continue to lift up local businesses. … We are Orange County Strong.”

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THURSDAY, JUNE 10 2021

Observer

No one fights alone

“If we are to build a better world, we must remember that the guiding principle is this — a policy of freedom for the individual is the only truly progressive policy.”

Friedrich Hayek

“Road to Serfdom,” 1944 President and CEO / Matt Walsh, mwalsh@yourobserver.com Editor and Publisher / Michael Eng, meng@OrangeObserver.com Design Editor / Jessica Eng, jeng@OrangeObserver.com Community Editor / Amy Quesinberry, amyq@OrangeObserver.com Sports Editor /Troy Herring, therring@OrangeObserver.com Associate Editor / Danielle Hendrix, dhendrix@OrangeObserver.com

DANIELLE HENDRIX ASSOCIATE EDITOR

T

aylor Pageau dreamed of being a firefighter since he was a child.

So, when he finished fire academy training at the end of last year and was hired to work at the Ocoee Fire Department in February, it felt like things were falling into place. He and his wife, Emily, even purchased a home in Clermont and moved from St. Cloud to be closer to Ocoee.

But, just two months into his firefighting career, Emily Pageau received a call that turned their world upside-down: Taylor Pageau had suffered a grand mal seizure at work and was rushed to Health Central Hospital in Ocoee.

CT scans revealed a large frontal-lobe brain tumor.

“We beat every single odd. All the ways this could’ve gone wrong, but it’s gone right at every single turn.”

COURSE OF ACTION

Taylor Pageau, 26, was exercising with his crew on April 19 when the seizure happened. He doesn’t remember any of it and only knows what he’s been told by others, but he does remember being conscious when doctors at Health Central Hospital broke the news of the tumor.

“The seizure lasted for over two minutes, which is another amazing thing, because we have four stations at Ocoee (Fire Department), and two of them have rescues, and I was at one with the rescue,” he said.

Taylor Pageau was transferred to Orlando Regional Medical Center for monitoring and to decide on an action plan. The tumor was so large that it began to compress and displace his brain. Neurologists decided to surgically remove as much of it as possible and test for cancer.

“They said, ‘OK, we can’t tell you if it’s cancerous or not, but we’ll do the surgery next Wednesday,’” Emily Pageau said. “‘After the surgery, we can do the pathology and find out if it’s cancerous or not.’ We had a week of the terrifying possibility of cancer.”

However, Taylor Pageau initially wasn’t worried about the tumor; he was more worried about Emily Pageau and about being out of work.

“I was way more upset about not being able to return to work, and I still am way more upset about not being able to work,” he said with a laugh. “I’ve wanted to do this forever. I worked for two months, and this happens, and now I have

HOW TO HELP Taylor Pageau will be in recovery for a few more months. Although he is on short-term disability and Emily Pageau is working, they still can use help with compensating for loss of income and medical bills.

To help the Pageaus, visit gofund.me/30372bc2.

Danielle Hendrix

Taylor and Emily Pageau are grateful for all the support they’ve received.

to wait six more months to start again. I was so frustrated when they were like, ‘This is going to be a long time in recovery.’”

To further complicate matters, both of Taylor Pageau’s parents were quarantining with COVID-19 when he had his seizure. Then, the week of his surgery, Emily Pageau’s family also had to quarantine with COVID-19. Luckily, the young couple has had plenty of support, especially from the fire department and union, as well as their church, Cypress Grove Fellowship.

The night before his surgery, the Pageaus had some hard conversations to discuss all possible outcomes.

“We had a talk about ‘what ifs’ — ‘What if you don’t come out of the surgery, what do you want us to do?’” Emily Pageau said. “That was probably the hardest conversation I think we’ve ever had.”

Taylor Pageau said he usually goes into “Superman” mode and tries to hide his emotions to protect his wife. But one night, before the surgery, he went out on their porch to make a call.

“I called one of our really close friends and kind of broke down and told him, ‘I need you to promise me to take care of Emily if something horrible happens and I don’t make it out,’” he said. “I lost it, and he lost it. I needed to tell it to somebody, because if you’re going under the knife, you don’t really know. Even though the surgeon is the most confident person in the world, I needed to have that one call to tell somebody that if I’m gone, I need someone to look out for her.”

BEATING THE ODDS

On April 28, Taylor Pageau made it through an eight-hour surgery.

They also learned that the tumor was noncancerous but rather a benign epidermoid brain tumor.

“We’ve been beating the odds,

for sure,” Taylor Pageau said.

However, that was just the first part of the journey to recovery. Not only were there physical needs to attend to in recovery, but also the couple had to figure out logistics such as finances and insurance coverage. That’s when their church and fire families have stepped in.

Cypress Grove Fellowship started a meal train for the couple and offered assistance taking care of the house and their pets. They even surprised the Pageaus with a small car parade in their cul-de-sac — complete with cards, food, gift cards and balloons. Taylor Pageau said it was one of the only times he’s cried throughout this journey.

Then, the Ocoee Fire Department jumped into action in big ways. Taylor Pageau’s benefits hadn’t yet kicked in because he only had been with the department for a couple of months. But fellow firefighters weren’t going to let him fight alone.

For a couple of weeks, they began taking Taylor Pageau’s shifts for him so he could get paid. Then, the union got the city to approve union members donating their paid time off so he would get paid until short-term disability kicked in. That gives the Pageaus 67% of his income until he goes back to work. He gets to keep his job and his health insurance.

“They had your next shift covered and all shifts covered in two weeks within five minutes of finding out what happened,” Emily Pageau told him. “The only people he knew at the department were his crew. He’d never met the union people or all these people from the other crews. They were just like, ‘This is what’s happening? OK, let’s do it,’ and they just jumped in.

They took care of that.”

The fire department and union have set up a GoFundMe for the couple. They also hosted a poker

— Emily Pageau

tournament and are planning a bass fishing tournament, and they made and are selling “Taylor Tough” T-shirts. All proceeds will go straight to the Pageaus.

IN RECOVERY

Now, more than a month out from surgery, Taylor Pageau has progressed. He’s walking, doing some light chores and getting stronger every day.

“Here, everybody is worried about me pushing myself too far,” he said. “At physical therapy, they’re like, ‘Push yourself, and we’re going to watch you to make sure you’re OK.’ It feels good to finally do something.”

Most side effects he’s dealing with now are mental. Sometimes, he gets depressing thoughts or mood swings, and his memory also has been affected. It’s all a normal part of the recovery process.

Taylor Pageau has a few more months to go before he can drive himself again and return to work.

Although he finds it tough to stay still and rest, he knows he’s incredibly fortunate.

“I’ve been like, ‘How can I complain about anything, because it’s all so amazing and (the tumor was) not cancerous?’” he said. “We are so loved and supported, and everyone made it such a positive thing. … (Emily and I ) are so grateful to them for everything. … It’s a ridiculous amount of stuff that only you think your family would do for you.”

“This is just a testament to what God can do,” Emily Pageau said.

“None of this stuff has been normal for us. I’ve never felt so helped and supported my entire life. … We felt like everything was taken care of. … We beat every single odd. All the ways this could’ve gone wrong, but it’s gone right at every single turn.”

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West Orange Country Club to renovate greens this summer Work at the golf club will begin in July and be done nine holes at a time to allow for play to continue.

TROY HERRING SPORTS EDITOR

Courtesy

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With growth and stability comes new and exciting things, and that’s exactly the case at the West Orange Country Club.

Over the past few years, the club has grown from 147 members to 316, and that growth means the club can now invest back into the course with a total renovation of the greens and the installation of a new irrigation system. Improvements also will be made to tee boxes and fairways.

“Six years ago, the old ownership almost closed the doors at the club — it was a not-for-profit, and they were financially struggling — so members got together, bought it out, and we got to a point now where we can put brand-new greens on the golf course and do the irrigation system, as well,” said Brendon Chase, the club’s general manager. “It’s been quite the ride.”

The greens around the 18-hole course had begun to age a bit and haven’t been up to the club’s standards, Chase said. With the growth, owners decided to finally put in some new greens.

The new turf — called Diamond Zoysia grass — is a fine-textured, high-density type of turf, according to Jason Sobel, a club member. A lot of courses throughout Central Florida are utilizing — or will utilize — this specific style of grass because it offers a variety of perks, Chase said.

“Some of it depends on the layout of the land — where the golf course is — so us being kind of a wetter area, in a swampy area, this grass really can perform and do well in those wet area,” Chase said. “It’s also probably the best grass when it comes to shade tolerance.”

Meanwhile, the new irrigation system — a modern technology called inners and outers, which allows for control of water onto the greens and the surrounding areas of the greens — will be placed around the greens to help keep the grass healthy. It also will help those who help maintain the golf course, Chase said.

“Basically, we’re going from a 1990s setup to 2021s setup,” Chase said with a laugh. “It was tough, because our maintenance team — because there’s going to be breakage — it was very tough for them to find parts, because that’s how old it is.”

The plan for getting everything done without shutting down the course is to install the turf and irrigation nine holes at a time. That way, members can still go out and enjoy a round of golf. The installation is planned to start July 14 and then be done sometime by mid-September.

With all the new changes — which also include a new chef — there’s a lot happening at WOCC this summer.

For Chase, it speaks volumes to the effort being put in to help continue to raise the club higher and higher.

“The ownership is going the next step to make it better,” Chase said.

“When they first took over, there was always that rumor around town, ‘Oh they’re just going to let it fail and develop.’ Well, it’s been over five years, but they continue business, they keep going, and the support from the community has been awesome.

“I think putting in new greens is kind of saying something like, ‘Hey, we’re here to stay, come out and enjoy it,’” he said. “We’ve already announced it to the membership, so everyone is very excited, pumped and ready for it.”

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THURSDAY, JUNE 10 2021

Give me an A! Give me an M! Give me a Y! What’s that spell? Someone who’s never been a cheerleader. Ever. But not for lack of trying. splits — and then waited to hear my name.

It wasn’t called. I wouldn’t be a cheerleader the following school year.

But do you know who did make the squad? A girl on crutches. Yes, crutches. I was worse than a girl who could only stand on one foot to perform the cheer routine.

OK, there’s always next year, I told myself. At the end of eighth grade, I tried out to be a Lakeview Red Devil cheerleader as a ninth-grader. Same ending, minus the crutches.

If you look in the Lakeview yearbook, though, you will see my smiling face with the other wannabe rah-rahs on what was called the Pep Squad. We wore matching maroon T-shirts to the Thursday night football games at Walker Field, and we stood as a group in the stands, cheering as loudly as the uniformed cheerleaders by the field. We had the spirit without the status.

Not one to give up, I thought maybe I should switch gears for my debut as a high-schooler. I decided the rifle corps was my place to shine. The only thing that shined were the purple bruises on my arms and legs

AMY QUESINBERRY COMMUNITY EDITOR

I

ng

ave

t’s funny that cheerleading has played some kind of role throughout my life. It’s the one thing I wanted to achieve at Lakeview Junior High and West Orange High schools — more than anything. But why? I have never liked being in front of people, and I don’t want anyone looking at me. The desire to be popular makes you do crazy things when you’re a young girl.

My first introduction to cheerleading was at Dillard Street Elementary, when my friends and I took part in the YMCA’s Tri-Gra-Y program. I received a certificate of completion signed by our coach, Pam Hannon, so I “knew” I did well.

Of course, every girl in the program got one.

The chance to be a real cheerleader came when I was in the seventh grade at Lakeview.

Tryouts for the 1980-81 school year were held in the gym after a week of learning and practicing cheers. I’ve got this, I thought.

I’m gonna be a cheerleader, I thought.

I gave it my all — flimsily outstretched arms and bent-knee

Above: The Lakeview Junior High Pep Squad shared its spirit from the stands during the Thursday night football games.

from failed attempts at flinging and catching the rifle.

Another year, another gear switch — dance corps, here I come! I’ll spare you the details, but it ended ugly. Two years in a row. But, to my surprise, I was so nervous the second year I actually went all the way down in my split. Small victories.

By now, you think I’m either strong and persistent or a total idiot who thrives on public failure.

I’ll tell anyone my cheerleading story. It doesn’t embarrass me; it defines me.

Even my little sister, Jeni, can claim she was a cheerleader for the Pop Warner football team.

Years later, a coworker asked if I had ever watched “The Middle.” I had not. She proceeded to tell me I reminded her of Sue Heck, the character who tried

out for everything under the sun at school but never made it.

I was the Sue Heck of West Orange County.

When my daughter, Allison, was 8, she joined her cousin, Raygan, on a competitive cheer team, the Orlando Flames, that trained in Gotha. Every week that season, I sat with the other parents off to the side of the gym as the girls practiced their routine.

Allison loved that part of cheerleading and the athleticism and precision required. What she didn’t like was the actual competition and all the preparation it entailed. The night before the competition, we sat for hours sponge-rolling her hair in teeny-tiny sections so she could cheer in adorable, bouncy curls, a la Shirley Temple or Nellie Oleson.

Once we were at the venue, she wriggled into the skin-tight uniform and then wriggled in protest when I applied the bright red glitter lipstick and shiny sil-

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One year of cheer was enough for Allison, but Raygan and her younger sister, Sayler, kept it up.

They both cheered on the varsity team at Olympia High, starting as freshmen, and they made the cheer team all four years in college, too.

Allison also spent one season performing on the flag Color Guard at Lakeview Middle School, all dressed out in gold sparkle. Now I’m thinking maybe I should have tried out for the flag corps.

Nah. It just wasn’t meant to be. I’m better at cheering when I’m not in front of people.

I learned as an adult that my calling in life was to be a mom cheering from the sidelines and stands while Allison and Adam played soccer and baseball in elementary school and the trumpet and the drums in high school.

And I’m perfectly OK with that.

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6

OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

|

THURSDAY, JUNE 10, 2021

Windermere Prep grads celebrate commencement I

Rafael Betancourt took a moment for himself while waiting to enter the auditorium.

Valedictorian John Geller gave an inspiring speech to his classmates.

t was a night to remember as Windermere Prep celebrated its seniors during the school’s commencement ceremony Tuesday, June 1, at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts in downtown Orlando.

Throughout the night, family, friends, students and faculty listened to a number of speeches — including those from salutatorian Zaid Syed and valedictorian John Geller — before seniors took to the stage to receive their diplomas from Dr. Leslie Williams, the school’s director of high school.

Students waited on the stairs inside the lobby of the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts before the start of the ceremony.

— TROY HERRING

Left: Salutatorian Zaid Syed gave a funny and inspiring speech to his fellow seniors during the ceremony.

Zavien Williams received a bear hug from his mother — Dr. Leslie Williams, the director of high school — after receiving his diploma.

7

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OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, JUNE 10 2021

THURSDAY, JUNE 10

RIBBON CUTTING: WEST ORANGE WOMEN’S CARE 5 p.m. Thursday, June 10, at 2711 Maguire Road, Ocoee.

(407) 656-1304.

FRIDAY, JUNE 11

HORIZON WEST BLOCK PARTY AND FOOD TRUCK NIGHT 5:30 to 9 p.m. Friday, June 11, at Hamlin Town Center, 14111 Shoreside Way, Winter Garden.

Round up the family (fur-fam included), friends and neighbors for this monthly party. Take chairs and blankets to unwind and relax while enjoying a flavorful lineup of food trucks, games and activities, and giveaways.

ORANGE COUNTY COMMISSION WILSON FACEBOOK LIVE 4 to 5 p.m. Fridays on Facebook, facebook.com/NicoleWilsonD1.

The purpose of these live office hours is to pull back the curtain of local government and help residents learn about what goes on behind the scenes once an elected official is sworn into office.

THE STORY OF THE BLUES: FINDING YOUR VOICE 3 to 4:30 p.m. Friday, June 11, online. The blues is a unique style of music with a rich history. This 90-minute workshop features the history of the blues and will teach participants how to write their own blues-style song. To attend, visit attend. ocls.info/event/5042131.

WINDERMERE FARMERS MARKET 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Fridays at Town Hall, 520 Main St., Windermere.

Use the entrance along West Sixth Avenue. Leashed pets welcome. Visit town.windermere. fl.us.

SATURDAY, JUNE 12

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

TUESDAY, JUNE 15

QIGONG SUMMER COOLDOWN 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, June 15, online. Jasmine Win shows basic qigong techniques and how using them in your daily life can benefit your health. Qigong is a tool in Chinese medicine that involves movement, breathing and meditation. To attend, visit attend.ocls.info/event/5110113.

MONDAY, JUNE 14

R.C. STEVENS CONSTRUCTION 95TH ANNIVERSARY 8:30 a.m. Monday, June 14, at 29 S. Main St., Winter Garden. (407) 656-1304.

Proudly serving West Orange for over 40 years.

Accepting New Patients

RIBBON CUTTING: CSL PLASMA 8:30 a.m. Tuesday, June 15, at 609 N. Powers Drive, Orlando.

(407) 656-1304.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 16

CELEBRATING EXTRAORDINARY WOMEN 3:30 p.m. Wednesday, June 16, at Ocoee Lakeshore Center, 125 N. Lakeshore Drive, Ocoee.

Join the West Orange Chamber of Commerce for this womenfocused event as it strengthens relationships and empowers one another while hearing from a select panel of women business leaders. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit wochamber.com/event/celebrating-extraordinary-women.

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TOWN OF OAKLAND NOTICE OF CHANGE OF FUTURE LAND USE PLAN MAP DESIGNATION OF THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN PUBLIC HEARING THIS WILL BE A HYBRID IN-PERSON/VIRTUAL MEETING

TOWN OF OAKLAND NOTICE OF CHANGE OF FUTURE LAND USEPLAN MAP DESIGNATION OF THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN PUBLIC HEARING THIS WILL BE A HYBRID IN-PERSON/VIRTUAL MEETING

The Town of Oakland will hold a public hearing to consider rezoning certain property generally located east of the Florida Turnpike, south of State Road 50/West Colonial Drive and west of 4th Street, containing approximately 6.56 acres.

The Oakland Town Commission will hold a public hearing to change the Town’s Future Land Use Plan Map Designation of its Comprehensive Plan of the following property generally located east of the Florida Turnpike, south of State Road 50/West Colonial Drive and west of 4th Street, containing approximately 6.56 acres.

ORDINANCE NO. 2021-09 AN ORDINANCE OF THE TOWN OF OAKLAND, FLORIDA, CHANGING THE TOWN’S OFFICIAL ZONING MAP DESIGNATION FROM A-1, AGRICULTURE (ORANGE COUNTY) TO I-1, INDUSTRIAL GENERAL IN THE TOWN OF OAKLAND, FOR A PARCEL OF LAND OWNED BY CRA-MAR GROVES, INC. BEARING PROPERTY TAX PARCEL IDENTIFICATION NUMBER 29-22-27-0000-00-002, SOUTH OF WEST COLONIAL DRIVE, OAKLAND, FLORIDA), WITH AN APPROXIMATE SIZE OF 6.56 ACRES; MAKING FINDINGS, AND PROVIDING FOR CONFLICTS, SEVERABILITY, AND FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.

ORDINANCE NO. 2021-08 AN ORDINANCE OF THE TOWN OF OAKLAND, FLORIDA, CHANGING THE TOWN’S FUTURE LAND USE PLAN MAP DESIGNATION OF ITS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN FROM “RURAL” (ORANGE COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN) TO “INDUSTRIAL” IN THE TOWN OF OAKLAND’S COMPREHENSIVE PLAN, FOR CERTAIN REAL PROPERTY OWNED BY CRA-MAR GROVES, INC. BEARING PROPERTY TAX PARCEL IDENTIFICATION NUMBER 29-22-27-0000-00-002, LOCATED SOUTH OF WEST COLONIAL DRIVE, OAKLAND, FLORIDA), WITH AN APPROXIMATE SIZE OF 6.56 ACRES; MAKING FINDINGS, AND PROVIDING FOR CONFLICTS, SEVERABILITY, AND FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.

Public hearing will be held on the request as follows: :

OAKLAND TOWN COMMISSION DATE: Tuesday, June 22, 2021 WHERE: Town Meeting Hall, 221 N. Arrington Street, Oakland, FL WHEN: 7:00 P.M. or VIRTUALLY: See Join Zoom Meeting Instructions below

Public hearing will be held on the request as follows:

OAKLAND TOWN COMMISSION DATE: Tuesday, June 22, 2021 WHERE: Town Meeting Hall, 221 N. Arrington Street, Oakland, FL WHEN: 7:00 P.M. or VIRTUALLY: See Join Zoom Meeting

All hearings are open to the public however attendance inside the Oakland Meeting Hall may be limited to accommodate social distancing. Any interested party is invited to offer comments about this request at the public hearing or in advance by 5:00 p.m. on Monday, June 21, 2021 in writing to the Town of Oakland, PO Box 98, Oakland FL 34760, or by e-mail to ehui@oaklandfl.gov. A copy of the request can be inspected at the Town Hall. Any party appealing a land use decision made at a public hearing must ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which includes the evidence and testimony that is the basis of the appeal.

All hearings are open to the public however attendance inside the Oakland Meeting Hall may be limited to accommodate social distancing. Any interested party is invited to offer comments about this request at the public hearing or in advance by 5:00 p.m. on Monday, June 21, 2021 in writing to the Town of Oakland, PO Box 98, Oakland FL 34760, or by e-mail to ehui@oaklandfl.gov. A copy of the request can be inspected at the Town Hall. Any party appealing a land use decision made at a public hearing must ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which includes the evidence and testimony that is the basis of the appeal.

The time and/or location of public hearings are subject to change. Changes are announced at the initial scheduled hearing. Notice of any changes will not be published or mailed.

The time and/or location of public hearings are subject to change. Changes are announced at the initial scheduled hearing. Notice of any changes will not be published or mailed.

Any person needing special accommodations to attend a public hearing must contact Elise Hui, Town Clerk, at 407-656-1117 x 2110, at least 24 hours before the meeting.

Any person needing special accommodations to attend a public hearing must contact Elise Hui, Town Clerk, at 407-656-1117 x 2110, at least 24 hours before the meeting.

This meeting will be held as an in-person meeting and attendees may also attend virtually through the Zoom Platform. Instructions below will allow you to join the meeting virtually:

This meeting will be held as an in-person meeting and attendees may also attend virtually through the Zoom Platform. Instructions below will allow you to join the meeting virtually:

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8

OBSERVER

|

THURSDAY, JUNE 10, 2021

9

REAL ESTATE

OrangeObserver.com

BAPTIST

antwansellstampabay.com

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

The home at 6233 Greatwater Drive, Windermere, sold June 1, for $3.4 million.

This estate features two detached guest residences and lakefront living on Lake Tibet Butler.

Keene’s Pointe estate sells for $3.4 million A home in the Keene’s

GOTHA

Pointe community in

The home at 1976 Blackwood Ave., Gotha, sold May 29, for $610,000.

Built in 2008, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,857 square feet.

The price per square foot is $213.51.

Days on market: Six.

West Orange-area residential real-estate transactions from May 29 to

BLACKWOOD ACRES

BRAEMAR

water Drive, Windermere,

The home at 9319 Lake Hugh Cove Court, Gotha, sold June 2, for $1.4 million. Built in 2015, it has five bedrooms, five baths, a pool and 5,232 square feet. The price per square foot is $267.58. Days on market: Two.

sold June 1, for $3.4 mil-

SIENA GARDENS

June 4.

The home at 6233 Great-

lion. Built in 2002, it has six bedrooms, seven-andone-half baths, a pool and 7,757 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $438.31. Days on market: 205.

These are the highestselling homes in each community in West Orange.

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

The home at 275 Siena Gardens Circle, Gotha, sold June 4, for $700,000. Built in 2007, it has five bedrooms, three baths, two halfbaths, a pool and 3,499 square feet.

The price per square foot is $200.06.

Days on market: 11.

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

EPISCOPAL

Church of the Messiah 241 N. Main St., Winter Garden Services: 8, 9:30, & 11 AM., 7 PM www.ChurchoftheMessiah.com

METHODIST

First United Methodist Church 125 N. Lakeview Ave., Winter Garden (407) 656-1135 Services: 9 AM Contemporary 11:15 AM Traditional Viewable on YouTube

NON-DENOMINATIONAL Purpose Church Orlando 13640 W Colonial Dr. Ste 110, Winter Garden (407) 654-9661 Sunday Service: 10:05 AM Sunday Brazilian Service: 7 PM Saturday Service: 6 PM www.purposechurchorlando.org

HORIZON WEST ASHLIN PARK

The home at 11713 Sprawling Oak Drive, Windermere, sold June 4, for $570,000. Built in 2016, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 3,073 square feet. The price per square foot is $185.49. Days on market: Zero.

ENCLAVE AT WINDERMERE LANDING

For those ready to take advantage of our Moving Forward Program, the following is a partial list of assistance available through our Program.

The home at 11713 Hampstead St., Windermere, sold June 4, for $910,000. Built in 2016, it has six bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths, a pool and 5,212 square feet.

The price per square foot is $174.60.

Days on market: Three.

Moving Forward Program Offerings Transitional Housing Mental Healthcare Counseling Montessori Preschool & Daycare Educational Opportunities Resume Building & Employment Opportunities Legal Assistance Credit Counseling & Debt Reduction

SEE REAL ESTATE PAGE 10

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Windermere topped all

2nd Campus: First Baptist Church @ Horizon West 15304 Tilden Road, Winter Garden Sundays: 9:45 AM All Ages www.FBCWG.org

CHURCH OF GOD

TEXT

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10

REAL ESTATE

OBSERVER

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OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, JUNE 10 2021

HICKORY HAMMOCK

MCCORMICK WOODS

INDEPENDENCE/ SIGNATURE LAKES

WINDSOR LANDING

The home at 15671 Citrus Heights Drive, Winter Garden, sold June 2, for $425,000. Built in 2016, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,010 square feet. The price per square foot is $211.44. Days on market: Nine.

The home at 3320 McCormick Woods Drive, Ocoee, sold June 4, for $425,000. Built in 2010, it has three bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,412 square feet. The price per square foot is $176.20. Days on market: Two. The home at 382 Calliope St., Ocoee, sold June 2, for $610,700. Built in 2004, it has five bedrooms, four baths, a pool and 3,738 square feet. The price per square foot is $163.38.

Days on market: 22.

The home at 7034 Pasturelands Place, Winter Garden, sold May 31, for $470,000. Built in 2006, it has five bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 3,160 square feet. The price per square foot is $148.73. Days on market: Eight.

The home at 14829 Old Thicket Terrace, Winter Garden, sold June 2, for $470,000. Built in 2006, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 2,646 square feet. The price per square foot is $177.63. Days on market: Two. LAKES OF WINDERMERE

The home at 6975 Penkridge Lane, Windermere, sold June 2, for $420,000. Built in 2009, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,170 square feet. The price per square foot is $193.55. Days on market: 24.

The home at 6849 Northwich Drive, Windermere, sold June 4, for $406,500. Built in 2003, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 1,862 square feet. The price per square foot is $218.31. Days on market: Four.

LAKES OF WINDERMERE — PEACHTREE

The home at 8431 Greenbank Blvd., Windermere, sold June 1, for $503,000. Built in 2005, it has four bedrooms, threeand-one-half baths, a pool and 2,792 square feet. The price per square foot is $180.16. Days on market: Four.

WEST ORANGE corcoran.com

The home at 11713 Hampstead St., Windermere, sold June 4, for $910,000. It was the largest transaction in Horizon West from May 29 to June 4.

The home at 8826 Abbotsbury Drive, Windermere, sold June 2, for $424,990. Built in 2004, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,120 square feet. The price per square foot is $200.47. Days on market: 15.

LATHAM PARK

The home at 14310 Shocklach Drive, Winter Garden, sold June 2, for $435,000. Built in 2017, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,389 square feet. The price per square foot is $182.08. Days on market: Four.

LATHAM PARK NORTH

The home at 8936 Doddington Way, Winter Garden, sold June 2, for $479,999. Built in 2016, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,564 square feet. The price per square foot is $187.21. Days on market: 14.

ORCHARD PARK

The home at 4022 Green Orchard Ave., Winter Garden, sold June 4, for $650,000. Built in 2015, it has five bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths, a

pool and 3,736 square feet. The price per square foot is $173.98.

Days on market: Two. SANCTUARY AT LAKES OF WINDERMERE

SNAPSHOT Total Sales: 78 High Sale Price: $3.4 million Low Sale Price: $183,000

The home at 6970 Cucamelon Court, Windermere, sold May 31, for $439,339. Built in 2021, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,890 square feet. The price per square foot is $152.02. Days on market: 19.

for $630,000. Built in 2016, it has four bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 3,627 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $173.70. Days on market: Two.

SUMMERLAKE

OAKLAND

The home at 8019 Key West Dove St., Winter Garden, sold June 2, for $570,000. Built in 2011, it has five bedrooms, four baths and 3,542 square feet. The price per square foot is $160.93.

Days on market: Three.

The home at 15223 Southern Martin St., Winter Garden, sold June 4, for $540,000. Built in 2016, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,686 square feet. The price per square foot is $201.04. Days on market: One. WINDERMERE TRAILS

The home at 12001 Observation Trail, Windermere, sold June 1,

JOHNS LANDING

The home at 322 Largovista Drive, Oakland, sold June 4, for $373,000. Built in 2004, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,127 square feet. The price per square foot is $175.36. Days on market: 15.

OCOEE

CROWN POINT WOODS

The home at 1810 Crown Point Woods Circle, Ocoee, sold June 4, for $400,000. Built in 1985, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,840 square feet. The price per square foot is $217.39. Days on market: Three.

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SOUTHERN ACRES

The home at 13400 Southern Way, Windermere, sold June 4, for $650,000. Built in 2000, it has four bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,476 square feet.

The price per square foot is $262.52. Days on market: Two.

WINDERMERE

CHAINE DU LAC

The home at 12309 Park Ave., Windermere, sold June 4, for $3.25 million. Built in 2021, it has six bedrooms, six-andone-half baths, a pool and 6,996 square feet. The price per square foot is $464.55. Days on market: 27.

ISLEWORTH

The home at 4906 Aviva Garden Court, Windermere, sold June 1, for $2.9 million. Built in 2016, it has three bedrooms, three baths, three half-baths, a pool and 6,598 square feet. The price per square foot is $439.53.

Days on market: 31.

KEENE’S POINTE

The home at 6115 S. Hampshire Court, Windermere, sold June 3, for $2,165,000. Built in 2002, it has five bedrooms, six baths, a pool and 6,231 square feet.

The price per square foot is $347.46. Days on market: 364.

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OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

The home at 9342 Tibet Pointe Circle, Windermere, sold June 3, for $1.33 million. Built in 2004, it has four bedrooms, four-andone-half baths and 4,762 square feet. The price per square foot is $279.29. Days on market: Eight.

The home at 6435 Lake Burden View Drive, Windermere, sold June 1, for $1.3 million. Built in 2006, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths, a pool and 4,257 square feet. The price per square foot is $305.38. Days on market: 16.

The home at 8058 Tibet Butler Drive, Windermere, sold June 3, for $755,000. Built in 2001, it has three bedrooms, three-andone-half baths and 2,912 square feet. The price per square foot is $259.27. Days on market: 107.

The home at 11531 Claymont Circle, Windermere, sold June 1, for $648,000. Built in 2005, it has four bedrooms, four baths and 2,944 square feet. The price per square foot is $220.11. Days on market: 16.

LAKE BUTLER ESTATES

The home at 3453 Bay Meadow Court, Windermere, sold June 3, for $765,000. Built in 1987, it has four bedrooms, three-andone-half baths, a pool and 2,896 square feet. The price per square foot is $264.16. Days on market: Three.

TOWN OF WINDERMERE

The home at 830 Oakdale St., Windermere, sold May 31, for $1,275,000. Built in 2019, it has four bedrooms, four-and-onehalf baths, a pool and 3,670 square feet. The price per square foot is $347.41. Days on market: 58.

WINDERMERE GRANDE

The home at 1818 Watermere Lane, Windermere, sold June 1, for $835,000. Built in 2004, it has six bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths, a pool and 4,000 square feet. The price per square foot is $208.75. Days on market: 57.

WINTER GARDEN BLACK LAKE PARK

The home at 535 Cascading Creek Lane, Winter Garden, sold June 2, for $424,900. Built in 2006, it has four bedrooms, two-andone-half baths and 2,834 square

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THURSDAY, JUNE 10, 2021

feet of living area. The price per square foot is $149.93. Days on market: 47.

BLACK LAKE PRESERVE

TOWN OF OAKLAND NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ANNEXATION OF 6.56 ACRES THIS WILL BE A HYBRID IN-PERSON/VIRTUAL MEETING

The home at 14535 Black Lake Preserve St., Winter Garden, sold June 1, for $520,000. Built in 2016, it has five bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 4,724 square feet. The price per square foot is $110.08. Days on market: 36.

The Town of Oakland will hold a public hearing and proposes to adopt an ordinance to annex property located south of West Colonial Drive, Oakland, Florida, containing approximately 6.56 acres, as follows:

OAKLAND PARK

The home at 1014 Lake Brim Drive, Winter Garden, sold June 2, for $1.35 million. Built in 2017, it has four bedrooms, four-andone-half baths and 3,871 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $348.75. Days on market: Three.

ORDINANCE 2021-07 AN ORDINANCE OF THE TOWN OF OAKLAND, FLORIDA, ANNEXING

BY VOLUNTARY PETITION CERTAIN REAL PROPERTY OWNED BY CRAMAR GROVES, INC. BEARING PROPERTY TAX PARCEL IDENTIFICATION NUMBER 29-22-27-0000-00-002, SOUTH OF WEST COLONIAL DRIVE, OAKLAND, FLORIDA), AND LOCATED CONTIGUOUS TO THE TOWN OF OAKLAND IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE VOLUNTARY ANNEXATION PROVISIONS OF SECTION 171.044, FLORIDA STATUTES, AND OTHER CONTROLLING LAW; REDEFINING THE BOUNDARIES OF THE TOWN OF OAKLAND TO INCLUDE SAID PROPERTY; PROVIDING FOR FINDINGS; PROVIDING FOR CONDITIONS; DIRECTING THE TOWN CLERK TO RECORD THE ORDINANCE WITH THE CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT, WITH THE CHIEF ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER OF ORANGE COUNTY AND WITH THE DEPARTMENT OF STATE; PROVIDING FOR LEGAL DESCRIPTION AND A MAP; REPEALING ALL ORDINANCES IN CONFLICT HEREWITH; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR NONCODIFICATION AND THE TAKING OF ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIONS AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.

The home at 889 Tilden Oaks Trail, Winter Garden, sold June 2, for $859,900. Built in 2020, it has five bedrooms, four baths and 3,615 square feet. The price per square foot is $237.87. Days on market: 110.

MAGNOLIA WOOD

The home at 1240 Markel Drive, Winter Garden, sold June 2, for $662,000. Built in 1992, it has five bedrooms, four baths, a pool and 3,620 square feet. The price per square foot is $182.87. Days on market: Five.

General Site Description: Approximately 6.56 acres, generally located on the south side of State Road 50, near West Colonial Drive, in Orange County, Florida between the Florida Turnpike/State Road 50 Interchange and 4th Street.

OAKS AT BRANDY LAKE

The home at 808 Eagle Vista Way, Winter Garden, sold June 1, for $575,000. Built in 2008, it has four bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 3,342 square feet. The price per square foot is $172.05.

Days on market: 36.

A public hearing by the Oakland Town Commission is scheduled to be held at the request of the property owner/ developer at the following time, date, and place:

DATE: Tuesday, June 22, 2021 WHERE: Town Meeting Hall, 221 N. Arrington Street, Oakland, FL WHEN: 7:00 P.M. or VIRTUALLY: See Join Zoom Meeting

STONEYBROOK WEST

The home at 13442 Fox Glove St., Winter Garden, sold June 3, for $548,800. Built in 2005, it has five bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 3,836 square feet. The price per square foot is $143.07. Days on market: One. TWINWATERS

The home at 1694 Holcomb Creek St., Winter Garden, sold June 3, for $740,000. Built in 2018, it has five bedrooms, three baths, two half-baths and 4,303 square feet. The price per square foot is $171.97. Days on market: 25.

WATERMARK

The home at 14699 Seton Creek Blvd., Winter Garden, sold June 1, for $550,000. Built in 2015, it has four bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 3,512 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $156.61. Days on market: One.

All hearings are open to the public however attendance inside the Oakland Meeting Hall may be limited to accommodate social distancing. Any interested party is invited to offer comments about this request at the public hearing or in advance by 5:00 p.m. on Monday, June 21, 2021 in writing to the Town of Oakland, PO Box 98, Oakland FL 34760, or by e-mail to ehui@oaklandfl.gov. A copy of the request can be inspected at the Town Hall. Any party appealing a land use decision made at a public hearing must ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which includes the evidence and testimony that is the basis of the appeal.

The time and/or location of public hearings are subject to change. Changes are announced at the initial scheduled hearing. Notice of any changes will not be published or mailed.

Any person needing special accommodations to attend a public hearing must contact Elise Hui, Town Clerk, at 407-656-1117 x 2110, at least 24 hours before the meeting.

This meeting will be held as an in-person meeting and attendees may also attend virtually through the Zoom Platform. Instructions below will allow you to join the meeting virtually: Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81498668999 Meeting ID: 814 9866 8999 Passcode: 6gyPG5 One tap mobile +19292056099,,81498668999#,,,,*279191# US (New York) Dial by your location +1 929 205 6099 US (New York) Meeting ID: 814 9866 8999 Passcode: 279191

student physicals $30

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The home at 9204 Tibet Pointe Circle, Windermere, sold June 1, for $1.35 million. Built in 2007, it has five bedrooms, four baths, two half-baths, a pool and 5,291 square feet. The price per square foot is $255.15. Days on market: Zero.

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OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, JUNE 10 2021

Orange County Public Schools announced Friday, June 4, that a revision to the OCPS School Board’s policy “Disease Prevention; Face Coverings” will make face masks optional effective no later than Monday, Aug. 2.

For students with health concerns or who are not yet vaccinated, the OCPS School Board — under advisement from the Medical Advisory Committee — recommends parents consult with their doctor for guidance regarding face coverings.

A rule development workshop is scheduled for June 17, with the draft planned to appear before the board for approval at the July 13 Board Meeting.

SUMMER MEAL PROGRAM BEGINS Orange County Public Schools’ Food and Nutrition Services Department will serve breakfast and lunch at no charge to all children 18 years and younger attending summer school and will hold curbside meal distributions at select schools.

Summer curbside meal distributions began Monday, June 7, at 11 schools in West Orange County — from 3 to 6 p.m. Each student will receive a week’s worth of meals, providing a total of seven days of breakfast and lunch.

In West Orange County, food can be picked up at Frangus and Maxey elementaries; Gotha, Horizon West, Lakeview, Ocoee or SunRidge middle schools; and Dr. Phillips, Olympia, West Orange and Windermere high schools.

MICHELLE ISHMAIL

PRAIRIE LAKE ELEMENTARY Michelle Ishmail is the media specialist/library at Prairie Lake Elementary School and serves as the Faculty Advisory Committee chairperson and the school’s CTA union representative. Her main job duties are working with administration and teachers to provide resources that support the curriculum. This year, she handled the technology as nearly 900 students received either iPads

What brought you to your school?

My final year of working in Wakulla County, I taught a third-grade inclusion-model ESE class. Our class was invited to perform at the governor’s family summit in Orlando. Our liaison had students attending my school and raved about how great the school was.

(Because) my family was moving to Orlando, I applied, interviewed and left that day as a member of the faculty.

as a safe, trusted adult in their life. I also cherish the moments when students share with me their excitement about a book they have read or are currently reading.

What do you love most about your school?

What I love the most is that our students always come first. Our administrators, faculty and staff share the belief that our students’ well-being — emotional, social and academic — is our No. 1 priority.

Who was your favorite teacher when you were in school? Why? My favorite teacher was Sister Christine, my sixth-grade teacher.

She was loving, strict and had high expectations for all of her students. She instilled in us the value and power of an education.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

As the media specialist, I am in most of our students’ lives from kindergarten to fifth grade. The most rewarding part of my job is seeing evidence that I have built strong relationships with our students and that they view me

What do you like to do in your spare time?

I like to spend time with my family — visiting, having parties, vacationing, playing games and group texting — whatever ways, big and small, to stay connected with each other.

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

Why? By the eighth grade, I knew that I was going to be an educator. I credit it to having been blessed with so many great, inspiring teachers in my life.

What is your favorite children’s book and why?

My favorite children’s book is “Anansi the Spider: A Tale from the Ashanti” by Gerald McDermott. I grew up listening to my grandmother telling me my beloved Anansi stories. This book helped me connect that words on a page were just as powerful as those spoken and that I could unleash those words myself through reading.

What are your hobbies?

My hobbies are reading and watching Florida State football.

Go ’Noles!

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

My superpower would be to adequately fund public schools with the resources students and teachers need for success. It is time our actions matched our words.

— AMY QUESINBERRY

NOMINATE YOUR INFLUENCER

REPORT CARD

Do you have an “unsung hero” at your school? If so, please nominate him or her for our Influencer of the Week feature. Nominations can be sent via email to contact@orangeobserver.com.

POSITION: Media specialist TIME AT SCHOOL: 21 years

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OCPS WILL MAKE MASKS OPTIONAL

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OBSERVER

INFLUENCER OF THE WEEK

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OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

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THURSDAY, JUNE 10, 2021

OBSERVER SCHOOL ZONE

Playing for keeps Windermere Prep sophomores are continuing the Play for Keeps Foundation, which impacts less-fortunate youth in Central Florida.

AMY QUESINBERRY COMMUNITY EDITOR

Five teenagers at Windermere Preparatory School are combining their compassion and a love of sports to make a difference in the community through the Play for Keeps Foundation.

Sophomores Jackson Bennett, Michael Crocetti, Matthew Lucas, Maaz Mohuiddin and J.T. Rattigan have been holding fundraisers and donation drives to collect sports equipment that is delivered to Central Florida students in need.

Play for Keeps was started by Sue Lucas, who also serves as its president.

“Our goals for the foundation are to impact less-fortunate kids in and around the Orlando area in a positive way, whether that being through sports, mentorship or any need that we can fulfill,” the students said. “We wanted to do something regard-

ing sports because the majority of kids love sports, and it was all a passion of all the people who were involved.”

In the first event, the boys donated about 20 basketballs to Hungerford Elementary School.

The second event was a sports ball drive, and the foundation members reached out to the Windermere Prep community, asking students to bring in any sports equipment not being used at their homes. More than 60 balls were donated, as were jump ropes and other toys, and these were given to the Windsor Cove community.

“The parking lot was immediately turned into a playground when we showed up, with kids running around, throwing balls and having a blast,” the students said. “It was truly an eye-opening event for everyone involved to see how much of an impact the foundation can have.”

At Christmastime, the teens donated more than 300 stockings — filled with small gifts — to Mollie Rae Elementary students. This school was chosen

Courtesy

J.T. Rattigan, Matthew Lucas, Michael Crocetti, Jackson Bennett and Maaz Mohuiddin are raising funds for sports equipment and shoes for students in need. They also handed out stockings at Christmastime.

because many of the students in the Windsor Cove community attend there.

“We really just aim to make a difference in the lives of underprivileged children from all around the Orlando area,” the members said. “Whether it being through sports, mentorship or basic necessities we are here to help and be a positive influence on these children’s lives.”

The most recent fundraiser was a “Kicks for Kids” virtual 5K. Their goal was $6,000, enough to buy 300 pairs of athletic shoes for students at Mollie Rae. A total of 35 runners participated, and they received dona-

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PLAY FOR KEEPS

To learn more about the Play for Keeps Foundation, visit pfkfoundation.org. To make a donation on the GoFundMe page, visit gofund. me/7e63c49c.

tions from people who weren’t able to run, too.

The teens reached their goal but continue to accept donations at pfkfoundation.org so they can enrich the lives of even more children.

“It was a real learning experience to coordinate a virtual run,

but I think we would all say it was a great first attempt,” the boys said.

The boys want to continue with their goal of providing joy to as many children as possible through sports.

Dr. Leslie Williams, high school director at WPS, is happy to see her students turn their love of sports into a project that helps others: “We are so proud of their community outreach where they have taken their passions and put them into practice to help the community,” she said.

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WEST ORANG E HISTO RY

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OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, JUNE 10 2021

THESE OLD TIMES

FROM THE WINTER GARDEN HERITAGE FOUNDATION FROM THE ARCHIVES

Over the teacups: “A bridge party was given in Orlando by the Druggists’ Wives Auxiliary.

Billie Davis was in charge of selling tickets in Winter Garden. … It’s smart to be comfortable, and that’s why the culotte has taken the fashion world by storm. Margaret Story had on the first one we have seen in Winter Garden, and we hear that Evelyn Tilden has one, too. … Am very sorry but I can’t give you the name of the new addition to the H. Durant Howard household, but as to date, the parents haven’t been able to think of an appropriate name — anyway, it’s a little girl.”

77 years ago

Chief of Police Johns requested that all dog owners watch for dates to be published in this paper of an animal inoculation of dogs in July, when a veterinarian was to be in Winter Garden to do the work.

Georgianna and Jimmy Hendrix were in the mental state of ecstasy over the beginning of their long hope for a home in Showalter Park.

40 years ago

Amy Walls and Maggie Cuddy were mascots of the Ocoee Junior High cheerleading squad.

CROSSWORD

JUNE 2, 1944 Patriotism was at an alltime high during World War II, and The West Orange News offered its residents a three-foot-by-five-foot American flag “made of fine, durable cotton bunting, with individually sewed stripes.”

For only $1.19, Old Glory was sent postpaid directly to readers’ homes so they could show their neighbors they were “true blue ‘and proud of it.’”

Before there was Winter Garden, there was Beulah — and before there was Beulah, the rural neighborhood two miles southeast of Winter Garden was known as “the Reaves settlement.”

The bucolic Beulah Cemetery serves as the final resting place for members of the Reaves family, who settled in the region in 1867. The cemetery is located on land donated by the family.

Pictured at their 50th wedding anniversary in June 1934 are James Alexander Reaves (1861-1939) and Jimmie Donie Letson Reaves (18641951).

Family members are invited to share history of Beulah with the Winter Garden Heritage Foundation. Call (407) 656-3244.

85 years ago

67 years ago

THROWBACK THURSDAY

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.

Big winners from Dillard Street Elementary in the county’s Math Fair held at the Winter Park Mall were Johnathon Rees, Andy Jackson, Randy Chancey, Michael Griffith, Andy Crabtree, Jeni

COMBINATION by Rebecca Goldstein; Edited by David Steinberg

Quesinberry, Robin Dunaway, Mark Beltram, Stephanie Tinch, Kim Johnson, Camilla Garza and Edgar Noble.

Among the costumed revelers at the Medieval Fair banquet at Ocoee Elementary

112 Put in the overhead bin 113 Heckle 114 Island country named after a woman 117 Spill the tea 119 Yes vote 120 One who’s kvetching in more simple terms?

126 ___ Gala, event where Lena Waithe wore a pride cape 127 “Oh, no you ___!”

128 Not mainstream 129 Garden guardian 130 Some are targeted 131 Stockpile 132 Accord or Accent 133 Face moisturizer

were Doug Anderson as Robin Hood, Joey Lester as a monk, John Heath Alexander as a pop and Matt Swickerath as Richard the Lion-Hearted.

43 Shout before “Polo!”

45 March Madness org.

49 British-based relief org.

50 Tree fluid 51 And others (Abbr.)

52 Substance like shellac 54 Many Libras’ birthstones 58 Jacob’s twin 59 Evite request 60 Closest pals, informally 61 Edible part of a beet 62 Land measures 64 Mall Santa’s sidekick 65 Brownstone’s porch 67 Place for a peel or scrub 68 Defiant retort 70 That special something 72 Best Picture winner set in Iran DOWN 76 “Longtime listener, first1 Video taker, informally time ___” 2 Slugger’s stat 77 Broadcasting 3 They may be flashed at a 78 Capote’s nickname bartender 4 Figure at a restaurant with a 80 $$$ sources at bodegas 81 Nasal walls conveyer belt 85 People try to make them 5 Ballet bend meet 6 Bike for two 87 Secret sauce?

7 Theater chain 89 Org. chaired by Jaime 8 Where Simone Biles won Harrison four golds 91 Lavish affection (on) 9 “My treat” 92 Added to an email chain 10 BLT ingredient 93 Volt, e.g.

11 Universe-related 12 King David’s rebellious son 94 Cartoon clown fish 95 Doodled 13 Solution for a hairy situ97 Grotesque monsters ation?

100 Word before “party” or 14 Wild way to run “pants” ©2021 Universal Uclick 15 PC connection 101 Sat or stayed, say 16 Sauce with falafel ACROSS 29 Woodsy scent 56 Romantic outing 86 Group of fields that 102 Basic bedding 17 “No clue” 1 Crunchy 30 Not in favor of 57 News anchor Anderson includes CS 103 Hangs on the wall 18 Glossy fabric 6 The Sun deck?

33 Some canvas shoes 60 Supportive undergarment 88 It can be dressed and 104 Walking speed 24 Winemaking wood 11 Birth ___ (passageway for 36 Hard work 63 Heist targets tossed a baby) 37 Good, in Nice 66 Quarterback’s directional 90 Animal shelter disinfec- 25 Metal whose symbol is Fe 105 Egyptian underworld god 29 Stores with edible arrange- 106 Paper marker 16 Lead-in to “the season” 38 V-sign’s meaning sense? tant?

111 Nada ments?

19 Singer Paula 40 Much ado about legisla- 69 An ellipse has two 96 Static issue 114 ___ pickings 30 Each 20 Essential acid type tion?

71 High, in Honduras 98 Bespectacled dwarf 115 “And here it is!”

31 Hated Roman emperor 21 “Becoming” author 44 “___ Black” (2010s sci-fi 73 “New Rules” singer Dua 99 One may smoke a joint 116 Oily skin concern Michelle show) ___ 100 Die-hard environmental- 32 Brewpub fixtures 118 Succumbs to gravity 22 Early programmer 46 AOC, for one 74 Serb or Croat ist, when cleaning up after a 34 Quad complex 120 Outdoor kiss, e.g., briefly 35 Procedure part Lovelace 47 Palace guards?

75 Luxurious military base? protest?

121 Not even 37 Top’s opposite 23 Incentive for SpaceX 48 Person who pretends to 79 Grannies 107 Crunchyroll cartoon 39 Countesses’ counterparts 122 Soccer icon Hamm sales reps? be on Bach’s level?

82 “How you doin’?” genre 41 Device with a click wheel, 123 Neither’s partner 26 Shelter such as a sukkah 53 Prefix meaning “straight” 83 ___ Urquelle (“Family 108 Detest 124 Tall bird 27 What’s under a hat 55 Plant with high-fiber Matters” alter ego) 109 Drag show accessories once 125 “Losing My Religion” band 42 Calf’s cry 28 Allocate, as funds seeds 84 Fabled man-eater 110 Garden in Genesis

CELEBRITY CIPHER

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

Each letter in the cipher stands for another.

“VSRZWSWE RVOW V TWDSVPF ESJUUADFFWEE SRVS TVDDPWE JE SRDAJNR VFB KVLWE JE BA SRPFNE SRVS CWACZW EVI GW TVF’S BA.” LPK TZPMESWDE “ZPGTZ CP Y FYMCU, XPM WB, GR YR WHOI Y DBYMTGTZ BLFBMGBTOB YR, UPH JTPV, RGCCGTZ GT Y DBOCHMB.” TYCYDGB FPMCWYT Puzzle Two Clue: V equals W

OBSERVER

Puzzle One Clue M equals J

14

© 2021 NEA, Inc.

SUDOKU

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

©2021 Andrews McMeel Syndicate

06-10-21

JUNE 10, 2021

SPORTS

Orlando Area Rowing Society rower and recent Olympia High graduate Jacob Sheldon will attend the University of Florida this fall. Page 16.

Running on full 5

HIGH

Reflecting on a wild, fun high school season

1

Cory Rahman — alumnus of Foundation Academy and Southeastern University standout — was named Scholar Athlete of the Day Sunday, June 6, by the National Football Foundation. It’s the latest accomplishment for Rahman, who recently was named to the NAIA Football All-America First Team as a defensive back.

In a six-game shortened 2020 season, Rahman recorded 34 total tackles and three interceptions.

TROY HERRING SPORTS EDITOR

Going into the 2020-21 school year, a lot of folks didn’t think there would be a sports season.

In interviews I did with student-athletes and coaches in the spring — when COVID-19 shut everything down — and in the summer, the No. 1 concern I heard was about whether the high school season would happen.

As it turned out, after guidelines were put into place — some warranted, some not so much — the season got underway, and I’m thankful it did. It brought back some normalcy to many folks, including myself, and it gave us the most memorable sports season I’ve ever covered.

2

The Little League All-Star season has begun, and the Winter Garden Little League Tournament of Champions team is off to a great start.

It went 2-0 last weekend — beating South Lake 20-12 Saturday, June 5, and Apopka 14-2 Sunday, June 6. The tournament continued Monday night versus Windermere.

3

West Orange High alumnus Doug Nikhazy pitched a game to remember for the Ole Miss baseball team in the Rebels’ 4-3 win over Florida State in the Oxford regional Saturday, June 5.

In the win, Nikhazy threw a school record-tying 16 strikeouts through seven innings of work, which moved him to fourth alltime on the Rebels’ singleseason strikeout chart. The showcase came a few days after he became the fourth two-time All-American in Ole Miss baseball history.

4

Olympia alumnus Nick Gordon — and shortstop for the Minnesota Twins — had his first MLB home run in the Twins’ 14-5 loss to the Kansas City Royals Friday, June 4. So far this season, Gordon has taken advantage of his time on the field, with an offensive line at the plate of .375/.412/.974.

5

A few changes in the baseball head coaching ranks have occurred over the last two weeks at local schools. Dr. Phillips head coach Ray Evans resigned after a threeyear stint at the school, where he led the Panthers to a 42-21 record and back-to-back district titles.

Meanwhile, Jay Welsh was announced as the new head coach at Foundation Academy — taking over for Chase Newman, who coached the school the previous two years.

A TIME FOR FIRSTS

When Michels — a longtime Winter Garden resident — started the running group a few years ago, it

One of my favorite things as a sports writer is the chance to ride right alongside programs as they make history, and that happened quite often this year.

Most recently, The First Academy baseball team stormed its way through a 31-1 season that culminated with the school’s first state championship, thanks to a ton of top-level talent and a coach in Scott Grove, who always gets the best out of his players.

I didn’t get to make it to the game — which was held in Fort Myers — but Grove was more than happy to have me on the journey remotely.

Other firsts includes Dr. Phillips senior Gerald Greaves, who ended his career by winning the school’s first state title in boys wrestling earlier this year. To add onto Dr. Phillips’ wildly successful year, senior Zamora St. Cyr won the school’s first title in weightlifting — after helping the girls wrestling team win its fifth consecutive title.

Meanwhile, down the road at Windermere Prep, the Lakers softball team took to the diamond and beat up just about everyone on its way to the program’s first district and regional titles, before falling in a heartbreaking walkoff in the state title game over in Clermont. Let that sink in: A program that had never won anything managed to come back from a COVID-shortened season to make a run to the state championship.

SEE WGR PAGE 16

SEE BEST PAGE 16

Courtesy

For many in the group, running days are often a highlight of the week that they look forward to.

The Winter Garden Runners started as a way for a handful of them to train together. It became one of the biggest families around.

TROY HERRING SPORTS EDITOR

E

arly morning on a Saturday, a group of friends take a seat at Axum Coffee in downtown Winter Garden to shoot the breeze.

They talk about their lives — wins, losses and everything inbetween — as well as the upcoming races they’re planning to run.

After a several-mile run along the West Orange Trail, it’s the place where this hodgepodge family gets to sit down and break the proverbial bread. For many — including Danielle Glover, Megan Hoffman, Dana Brady and Jack Michels — it’s the highlight of their week.

“That’s like the beacon of light that everybody looks forward to at the end of their week — to sit post-run with their cup of coffee; there’s nothing like it,” Glover

said. “It slaps — it doesn’t just hit different, it slaps.”

“It’s like ‘Cheers,’ when everyone meets in the morning and we’re all kind of groggy and still asleep, because it’s 6 a.m.,” Hoffman said. “At the end, people just start trickling into Axum, and it’s like ‘Cheers.’ You’re just like, ‘Oh hey! There’s Joy, there’s Kim, Dan — what did you do today?’ It’s awesome.”

This group — called the Winter Garden Runners — meets multiple times a week to partake in their shared interest of running while building a community that has led to new friendships.

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WGR continues to grow

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Jacob Sheldon

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15

Recent Olympia High graduate Jacob Sheldon has been a member of the Orlando Area Rowing Society for seven years. Through those years, he racked up numerous awards — including being named Most Valuable Teammate in 2019 and 2021, while also winning the sportsmanship award in 2020. Sheldon will be attending the University of Florida in the fall.

When did you first get into rowing?

In the summer after fifth grade, my friend, Caden, asked me to do a learn-torow camp through OARS, and I did that, and I just ended up really liking it, so I started rowing right after that.

THE BASICS AGE: 18 ORGANIZATION: Orlando Area Rowing Society POSITION: Four seat (on Varsity 8+ team) SCHOOL: Olympia High (recently graduated)

What has kept you in the sport for so long?

I think most of my motivation comes from my teammates, and it’s like the coaching staff at OARS and my family who have all pushed me really hard and want me to be the best that I can be, and that’s kind of rubbed off on myself and also makes me want to improve.

What is your favorite part about rowing? The most challenging part?

My favorite part about the sport barely has to do with the actual sport, but I love fixing the boats and dealing with more of the hardware that comes with the sport — like putting stuff together, fixing up the boats and getting them ready for races.

The most challenging part is probably the whole physical aspect, because you can never just train one area — you have to train anaerobic, aerobic, muscle, endurance and everything all at once.

What’s been your favorite part about being at OARS? My favorite part about being at OARS is meeting so many different people and becoming so close with others.

What was that first year like in rowing for you?

My first year, I was probably the complete opposite of how I am now. I was not in good shape, I had no cardio. …

When I got to rowing, I realized it’s more intense, but it’s a lot more fun. I just realized how much more time and effort I was able to put into this sport and also see the results that came back with it.

You’ve won a handful of awards the past few years at OARS. How does that make you feel?

It made me really happy to realize that people on the team recognize how much time and effort I try to put into the sport. It felt really good, because whenever I’m there, I try to constantly be helping out — whether it’s giving advice to younger rowers or if it’s just helping set up for practice.

What’s been the biggest change you’ve seen in yourself since you first started?

Physically, I’m a lot different than when I first started — I’m in great shape, and I look a lot better than I used to. I think my biggest overall change is probably mentally, because I have a much higher selfconscious level.

— TROY HERRING

consisted of just himself and three others who simply wanted to run a race together.

After creating a Facebook page for the group, something happened that Michels never expected — a bunch of folks joined.

“Other people started showing up to train, so we thought, ‘Oh, this is kind of cool,’ so more and more people started showing up,” Michels said. “When we set out and created the group we thought, ‘You know, the one thing we want to do is make it free for everybody, and the goal is to just encourage other people — no matter where they are in their skill level — and always have people show up so that people have someone to train with.’”

Over the years, the group has fluctuated in size, but Michels said it normally has about 20 to 30 people participate on any run day. Those include 5 a.m. starts on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, and a 6 a.m. start on Saturdays. The group also does a night run every third Thursday.

A RUNNING FAMILY

For Brady — who moved to Winter Garden six years ago — finding the group toward the end of 2019 was a blessing.

The experienced runner — who has run 24 half-marathons and a marathon — had grown so used to running on her own,

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15

The resilience of this Lakers team — led by head coach Wes Pollock — was incredible, and the win against TFA in the regional finals was the best softball game I’ve ever covered. When I mean good, I mean “physically shaking from anxiety and nerves, despite not having a dog in the fight” good.

Basketball holds a special part in my bleeding, North Carolinian heart.

So, when DP’s boys basketball team ran amok through the season and landed in Lakeland for the state semis and final, I knew it would be one of the highlights of the year. I mean, it had been a solid few years — when CFCA won its first state title in early 2019 — since I had made the pilgrimage over to the RP Funding Center in Lakeland, so any excuse to go was worth taking.

Sitting on the floor with media snacks in my pocket, while live — as in real-life — human beings filled the arena with a sound that vibrated off the walls gave me life.

A big win over Oak Ridge in the semis sent the Panthers into the title game, where a 27-point explosion by Denzel Aberdeen had me frantically running onto the court to grab photos, just like I was Jim Valvano looking for someone to hug after the 1983 NCAA title game.

WHEN THE CROWD CAME BACK

When I went up to Apopka to cover Ocoee High’s first football game of the season, it was … weird to the point of dystopian.

Before the restrictions on bands, cheerleaders and other vital game day bits and pieces were lifted, speakers were set up in the end zone — which blasted pre-recorded music and cheers.

Meanwhile, in the stands — where normally there would

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be hundreds and hundreds of people — sat a small dozen or so in quiet bleachers.

It sucked.

Luckily, those rules were removed just as fast as they had been instituted thanks to outcry from communities around the county. Slowly but surely the pomp and circumstance of game day came back.

The ebb and flow of a game can be doubly felt by crowd reactions, and when a game gets tense, I can feel it even more so with every cheer — or jeer. When I’m sitting down to write that game recap, I use that energy to help me channel what needs to be said in a piece — it’s a liberating thing.

So thank you to those fans who have made it back to fill the stands on Friday nights, and on mid-week nights of basketball, and thank you to the studentathletes who have put up with so much just to get back the games you play.

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Along with making it through the difficult times in the real world, the group has also helped inspire individuals with their running — which, can be a challenge.

Of all the things that has helped Glover — a Windermere resident — with her own running, it’s been the support of those around her who push her to be better.

“Motivation is easy when you have other people who are also motivated,” Glover said.

“Because, you know, getting up and running at 5 o’clock in the morning doesn’t sound all that fun, but when you have other people holding you accountable, you’re more likely to show up. You don’t want to let your friends down.”

The growth of the group as its own community has been a welcome surprise, Michels said.

People take care of one another, and watching it happen has made the experience so much better.

“A lot of these people are a part of (one another’s) lives, even outside of running, and there have been people who have moved into town who now have friends because of the group,” Michels said. “That’s one thing that really caught me off-guard — how the community developed. It’s a tight-knit group of people who really, truly encourage each other.”

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but she realized she needed others to push her. She ended up discovering the group thanks in part to pure happenstance — she met Hoffman at a baby shower — and the two randomly met while working at Disney. Brady took it as a sign and decided to join.

“It’s just nice to meet more people (who) live in your community that have the same likemindedness,” Brady said. “After one day of running … I maybe made 10 new Facebook friends out of this, and that’s only after one run.”

Both Hoffman and Brady were laid off by Disney toward the end of last year, but the group helped them get back onto their feet — just as the group had done for everyone else.

In Hoffman’s case, 2020 was filled with both personal and professional setbacks, and it was the running group that helped her attain a sense of normalcy.

“The running group is kind of — little by little — how I got more back into the world, because then I started basing stuff off of it,” Hoffman said. “I never ran with a mask, but we took it in baby steps … because we’re outside and fairly distanced, and then we would sit outside at Axum. Every Saturday, that was so much the highlight of my week, because there would be times where I wouldn’t leave my neighborhood the whole week long, because you were just staying home.”

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OBSERVER

WEST ORANGE OBITUARIES

OrangeObserver.com

JASON RAY WILLIAMS DIED MAY 30, 2021.

On May 30, 2021, Jason Ray Williams (as his mother used to call him when he was in trouble) left this world. He leaves behind his wife, Sherrie Williams, who lovingly referred to him as her Jackass, a term which Jason, in 10 years of adoring marriage, could never really find a proper defense against. Together, they created a loving family with daughters Makayla Williams and Dravyn Patterson, and sons Eden Williams, Landen Sinnot and Asher Williams.

Also left behind are his parents, Richard and Shirley Williams, who will miss his smiling face and his stories and his ability to make

those around him feel loved and important; his sister and her husband, Shawne and Randy Sheldon, who will forever miss the wonderful discussions they used to have even when holding different points of views, and of being able to bribe him with chocolate; and a brother and his wife, Jeremy and Samantha Williams, who grieve from their home in China, thereby casting a pall over the

ARTHUR LEE DASHER IV DIED MAY 28, 2021.

NANCY LOUISE HOUSTON DABBS DIED MAY 29, 2021.

Arthur Lee Dasher IV, age 83, of Orlando, died May 28, 2021.

Arthur was born in Macon, Georgia, on Nov 14, 1937, to Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Dasher.

A Funeral Mass was celebrated June 8 at St. James Catholic Cathedral.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you consider a memorial contribution to the Russell Home for Atypical Children, 510 Holden Ave., Orlando, FL 32839, a ministry dearly loved and supported by Arthur.

Arrangements entrusted to DeGusipe Funeral Home, Maitland, Florida. Read full obituary and leave a message of condolence by visiting degusipe. com.

Nancy Louise Houston Dabbs, of Ocoee, Florida, passed away unexpectedly yet peacefully on May 29, 2021, at the age of 81, joining her loving husband.

Born in Newton, North Carolina, on Sept. 25, 1939, she led a selfless life of service to her church, community and family.

Although Nancy suffered from late-stage Alzheimer’s disease and her memory had faded, she touched the lives of her family, friends and caregivers with her love that shone through the light in her beautiful blue eyes.

After graduating from Newton-Conover High School, in Newton, North Carolina, and Appalachian State Teachers College, in Boone, North Carolina, Nancy moved to Florida

Eastern Hemisphere as well.

Then, of course, there is the human race in general, who has lost a kind and compassionate soul among them and will experience their grief in unspoken and unrealized ways.

Jason was, as his grandmother would say, filled with sass, and he showed this proclivity at a young age. As a youth, he could be known to be argumentative and confrontational, but he did this in defense of what he believed was right. He was immensely intelligent and logical, and the absence of these qualities in humanity was a constant source of exasperation to him.

As an adult, he came to better accept and understand the imperfections of himself and

and began her teaching career at the original Ocoee High School.

There, she met and married her husband, J. Lester Dabbs Jr., in 1962, and together they built a strong and loving family.

An integral part of the Ocoee community as both a teacher and member of Ocoee United Methodist Church (now Ocoee Oaks United Methodist Church), Nancy was dedicated to improving the lives of everyone she met. Nancy will be remembered for her impressive intelligence,

|

THURSDAY, JUNE 10, 2021

those around him. He focused his attentions on helping to make the changes in the world he could, raising his extended brood of children with the thoughtfulness and compassion he knew the world needed more of. He was selfless with his friendship and in his interactions with others and strived to be good, succeeding more often than not.

Approaching middle age, Jason took to the appropriate customs with gusto. He smoked meats with enthusiasm, and his brisket could rival the best in the world. He vehemently ignored and denied any evidence of hair loss, and his refusal to switch to bifocals in spite of their obvious need was impressive. His passing came far too soon, and his fam-

ily will forever be left wondering what type of cantankerous, loving, selfless senior citizen he would have been.

Jason loved astronomy and physics and often pined for an opportunity to explore among the stars. In keeping with this wish, his family will be shooting a portion of his remains into the heart of the Milky Way galaxy. There, millions of light years away, his presence will provide inspiration and comfort, just as it did on Earth.

He will most likely continue to remain baffled by the foibles of humanity, but he will love us all the same, even from that great distance.

Arrangements are in the care of Winter Oak Funeral Home and Cremation.

sweet and caring nature, and her eternal love of ice cream.

Nancy is survived by her four children, Leslie Dabbs Allen (Patrick), Joanna Dabbs Butler (Kevin), Natalie Dabbs Hatch (Wally) and Jack Christian Dabbs II; and nine grandchildren, Calla Butler, Zachary Allen, Garrett Butler, Jacob Allen, Kelton Butler, Emily Allen, Caroline Allen, Delaney Hatch and Makenna Hatch. Nancy is also survived by her siblings, Jerry Houston, Janet Wilson (Jim) and Pamela Kupetz (Bill); sisters-in-law, Jeannie Houston, Cathy Houston and Velva Graves; brother-in-law,

Walter Dabbs (Virginia); many cousins, nieces and nephews and their children.

Nancy was preceded in death by her husband of 52 years; parents, Dewey and Hazel Houston; brothers, Neil and Charles Houston; and two granddaughters, Susanna Hope Butler and Camryn Makenna Hatch.

The family requests that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Alzheimer’s Association, act.alz.org; Smile Train, donate.smiletrain.org; or Sipe’s Orchard Home, sipesorchardhome.org.

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THURSDAY, JUNE 10 2021

OrangeObserver.com

HEALTH MATTERS THE OBSERVER’S GUIDE TO YOUR BEST YOU

THE HEALING PROCESS The 2020-21 school year is over, and the pandemic is receding. For many parents, this the first time they can survey the mental and emotional damage left in its wake.

Winter Garden’s The Nurture Place is helping kids heal. Pages 6-7.

JUN E 20 21

2

HEALTH MATTERS

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OrangeObserver.com

JUNE 2021

PHYSICIAN SPOTLIGHT Tell us about your path to becoming a doctor.

I went to a seven-year combined B.A/M.D. program at Boston University. After completing residency at New York Medical College in 2000, I lived in Albany, New York, for three years, where I worked at a private practice. My oldest son was born in Cleveland, Ohio, where my ex-husband was completing fellowships. We moved to Naples after that, and my younger son was born there. I moved to Orlando in 2011 and started working at my present practice in 2012. I have been practicing pediatrics (more than) 20 years now. I have been blessed to find a wonderful practice — Ocoee Pediatrics.

Dr. Bindu Kakkanatt When you’re not working, what do you like doing in your spare time?

I have two teenagers of my own, two boys ages 14 and 16, who keep me on my toes at home, as well as two beloved goldendoodles, so life is always busy at home. Managing a private practice, taking care of my work and being mom keep me pretty busy. I am trying to carve out time for things that I enjoy. I am part of two book clubs, which gives me an excuse to squeeze in some non-medical books.

I love to travel and am hoping to start exploring new places again soon.

I have not had a chance to travel too much, and before COVID hit, I had made a plan to take a couple of trips every year to new places. I am hoping that I can get started again with travel plans real soon.

Dr. Bindu Kakkanatt knew from childhood she wanted to do something in the world that would help children. The daughter of immigrants, Kakkanatt has been a pediatrician for more than 20 years and has served at Ocoee Pediatrics since 2012. In what spare time she has, she enjoys spending time with her family and her dogs, as well as traveling.

Tell us a little bit about yourself.

I was born in Hartford, Connecticut, but moved to New York City suburbs as a baby. At age 12, I moved to Clearwater, Florida, and finished high school at St. Petersburg High School. My parents emigrated from India in the late ’60s.

When did you decide you wanted to become a pediatrician?

I decided early in life that I wanted to work with children. Initially, I was convinced I wanted to be an elementary school teacher, but as I got older, I became interested in health care.

Courtesy photo

Do you remember going to the doctor as a child?

I had fond memories of my own pediatrician treating me whenever I was sick. He was kind and comforting, and I always felt well taken care of.

By the time I was finishing high school, I decided to become a pediatrician.

CHECK-UP Practice: Ocoee Pediatrics, 1551 Boren Drive, Ocoee Speciality: Pediatrics Years in practice: More than 20 years Education: Seven years combined B.A/M.D. program at Boston University; residency at New York Medical College

What is your favorite thing about your job?

I am now 20-plus years in pediatrics and thoroughly enjoy it. I feel so comfortable in my position now, and all the hard work it took to get here is worth it because I get to go to work in job that I love. My favorite part of pediatrics is getting to know families and feeling that I am working with parents to provide the best care possible for their children. I enjoy not only treating routine childhood illness but (also) catching up at well visits to make sure growth and development are appropriate, (and) providing advice on nutrition and safety for the younger kids. It is wonderful to see babies growing up into their teen years and maturing into young adults.

— TROY HERRING

HEALTH MATTERS

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JUNE 2021

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OrangeObserver.com

JUNE 2021

Protect your pets this summer

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Pets are just as susceptible to summer dangers as we are. Here are our top five tips for ensuring they stay safe.

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For many, summertime means sunscreen, beach trips, popsicles, family vacations, water activities and time spent outdoors enjoying the warm weather.

However, just as you take precautions to avoid overheating and excess sun exposure when heading outdoors, it’s also important to remember to protect your fourlegged friends. Here are five tips to make sure your furry companion stays safe this summer.

“(Because) mosquitoes spread heartworms, one mosquito bite is all it takes to infect a dog with this potentially fatal disease,” said Dr. Peiman Milani, owner and veterinarian at Windercare Animal Clinic. “Missing just one dose of heartworm prevention can open the door to your dog being infected.”

Fleas are also a concern, because they can cause an allergic reaction to proteins in flea saliva. Signs of fleas include rash, redness and scratching or biting the hind legs, tail or abdomen.

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DANIELLE HENDRIX ASSOCIATE EDITOR

NOW OPEN

AVOID FIREWORKS AROUND PETS

Fireworks can cause a tremendous amount of fear and anxiety for pets, as the booming sound can trigger a fight-or-flight response. Many pets escape and are reported lost around holidays such as the Fourth of July for this reason. Additionally, exposure to lit fireworks can result in severe burns or trauma.

Leave your pets secure at home if you’re heading out to a fireworks display. If possible, confine them to the most soundproof room and ensure all windows are closed.

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DO NOT SHAVE YOUR DOG

Many people think shaving their dog’s coats will help keep them cooler, but all that fur has a purpose. According to the ASPCA, the layers of a dog’s coat actually helps protect them from overheating and sunburn. Pet owners can trim longer hair, but shaving is never recommended.

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STAY UP TO DATE ON HEARTWORM AND FLEA TREATMENTS

Florida’s warm and humid environment makes it conducive for mosquitoes and fleas to thrive.

KNOW THE SYMPTOMS OF OVERHEATING

Signs of heat stroke in cats include rapid pulse and breathing, red tongue, vomiting, lethargy and stumbling. For dogs, the signs include excessive drooling, rapid heartbeat, red gums and producing little to no urine.

To avoid overheating, stay indoors on hot days. When taking your dog out, keep walks short.

Additionally, ensure your pet always has access to fresh water.

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PAW PROTECTION

When it’s hot out, there’s always a risk of your pet’s paws getting burned on pavement. In fact, even when it’s just 77 degrees out, the asphalt temperature may reach 125 degrees.

To check whether the pavement is too hot for your dog’s paws, do the seven-second test. Touch the pavement with the back of your hand for seven seconds. If it’s too hot to hold your hand there for seven seconds, it’s also too hot for your pet’s paws.

If the pavement is too hot, try walking your dog on grass or at times when the ground is cooler, such as early in the morning or late in the evening.

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HEALTH MATTERS

OrangeObserver.com

Remaining fluid Hydration is always important — especially during a hot Florida summer. Here’s how to ensure you have plenty of fluids throughout the season.

TROY HERRING SPORTS EDITOR

Water is the ultimate life-giver, and it plays just as big a role in our bodies as it does in nature.

Water makes up nearly 60% of our bodies and plays a huge role in our health. That’s why staying hydrated is paramount every day — and even more so in the summer, said Lisa Cooper — a registered dietitian at the Orlando Health Center for Health Improvement at Orlando Health Horizon West Hospital.

“It has so many functions,” Cooper said of water. “It’s used to manufacture neural transmitters and hormones, and it’s important for growth and reproduction, and it helps to flush waste out of the body and it helps to lubricate your joints … and all important it helps regulate your body temperature. It has so many different functions, and since it is a large part of us, just losing a little bit can have an impact on how we feel.”

HYDRATION LEVELS

There are two extremes that can really take a toll on our health: Overhydration and dehydration.

The former, also known as hyponatremia, is much less common — Cooper said she had only really heard of it with endurance athletes — but nevertheless can still be

dangerous. Just as with anything, too much water can be bad for your health. Too much fluid in the body can dilute the plasma sodium in your body — leading to confusion, fatigue and weakness.

Conversely, dehydration is incredibly common, Cooper said.

And water loss happens through a variety of factors that you may not realize.

“You’re losing water always through breathing, coughing, sneezing and sweat,” Cooper said.

“Exercise in climate plays such a big role, so people in Florida or in Orlando versus the coast are going to have different fluid requirements and losses, so you really have to know yourself.

“Thirst is a good guideline,” she said. “If you’re thirsty, your body is telling you to rehydrate. But if you have more than a 2% weight change, the effects are things like changes in mood, possibly memory, attention and definitely athletic performance.”

Another telltale sign is urine color. Cooper said it should be a straw yellow color. If it’s a darker yellow, then you’re dehydrated, and if it’s clear, then that’s a sign that you’re drinking too much water.

HYDRATION SCIENCE

The proper amount of water varies depending on a variety of factors — body size, gender, health

background and the amount of exercise one does. According to the U.S. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, the recommended intake for men is 15.5 cups per day, while women should drink around 11.5 cups. Those amounts include the total intake — both food and liquid.

There’s also is a mathematic equation that can be used to determine how much water you need following exercise or a day working in the yard. Before the activity, weigh yourself and note your weight. After you’re done, weigh yourself again. For each pound you lost while being active, drink 16 ounces of water.

ALTERNATIVES

If you don’t care for water, there are other ways to hydrate, Cooper said.

“There (are) little tricks that you can play with yourself,” Cooper said. “For some people, it’s just a quantity issue — a 16-ounce water bottle seems overwhelming, so you get them a little tiny one, and sometimes that’s enough. If they don’t like water, they can put fruit or herbs (in). You can do the fruit infusions — that works for people — or lemon or lime, and (for) some people sparkling water does the trick.”

Many foods, such as celery, cabbage, radishes, watermelon and strawberries, also can hydrate.

Meanwhile, sports drinks — such as Gatorade — should really only be consumed by those who are doing long, intensive work where they need both hydration and electrolytes, Cooper said.

WATERMELON SMOOTHIE BOWL

INGREDIENTS n 2 cups frozen strawberries n 1 frozen banana n 1 1/2 cup watermelon, cubed n 1/4 cup coconut water TOPPINGS (OPTIONAL):

n Pomegranate seeds n Blueberries

METHOD n Mix all ingredients in blender. Add coconut water and blend to desired thickness (consistency to eat with a spoon). Pour into bowl and top with fruit or other toppings.

POMEGRANATE POPS INGREDIENTS n 2 cups pomegranate juice (or deep purple grape juice) n 1 cup coconut water METHOD n Mix juice and water in small picture. Pour into ice cube trays or popsicle molds. Freeze until firm.

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JUNE 2021

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HEALTH MATTERS

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OrangeObserver.com

JUNE 2021

THE FONTENOTS

Courtesy

The Fontenot family turned to The Nurture Place when their youngest son exhibited signs of stress and had trouble communicating his emotions during the pandemic.

A time to laugh, a time to weep AMY QUESINBERRY

The Nurture Place created a support group for children after seeing the effects the pandemic had on their mental and emotional well-being.

COMMUNITY EDITOR

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he COVID-19 pandemic has caused tremendous disruption in the lives of both adults and children, and many parents have seen a change in their child’s behavior and emotional well-being.

The Nurture Place saw a need for group therapy that could help children understand all the changes and disruptions happening during the pandemic, and in February, the counseling center started an anxiety support group for youth.

“Something we wanted to be intentional about is that it met their needs,” said Summer Darnell, licensed mental health counselor. “That each week they look forward to it. … It’s been really fun and a really positive experience. I think parents get a lot out of someone looking after their emotional needs. We have people looking after their educational health and their physical needs, but … there hasn’t been something like this out there.

“This level of care hasn’t been available,” Darnell said. “We’re being more proactive.”

THE NURTURE PLACE 1001 W. Plant St., Winter Garden WEBSITE: thenurtureplace.org

Angela Gonzalez, executive director of The Nurture Place, in Winter Garden, described the addition as “child-focused holistic programs that are going to benefit our community at large — building stronger families and communities.”

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one in six U.S. children from ages 2 to 8 years (17.4%) has a diagnosed mental, behavioral or developmental disorder. Furthermore, research has shown the majority of problems in children go undiagnosed and untreated.

BEING THEMSELVES

Gonzalez said the counseling center’s team developed the program because it saw children needed to be able to manage higher levels of stress and

Tyler is not an anxious child but more of a higher-level emotionally charged person compared to his family members and school peers.

He is a third-grade student at Oakland Avenue Charter School and our youngest son.

As many families this year, we were navigating unprecedented times with personal and professional stressors and doing our best as a family to thrive with the coping skills we had in our wellbeing toolbox.

However, with factors of social isolation, and new and different school goals and experiences this year, we started to recognize some early signs of stress and frustration in our youngest son — mostly at home — with communication and expressing emotions. Although the signals were early and can be typical of kids in the gifted experience, we wanted to support him in the best way we could and realized there was community experience that would give him a village of like-minded families and kids.

We discovered The Nurture Place on a community social media page, and it seemed like a great fit for preventive mental health skills with his peer group in a group community setting.

Our hope was this experience would give him improved coping skills for regular and exceptional life stressors in and outside of school. His weekly classes gave him great relaxation tools, categories of his emotions and how to better cope and communicate them to his family and friends, and ultimately how to be the best he can be and advocate for his wellbeing daily.

What we did not expect — and an amazing outcome — was that there were emotional well-being tools we all learned as a family as we reviewed his “calm club” (his name for his weekly group) activities each week and discussed as a family how we can all be better about coping, communicating and resilience during times of stress and anxiety.

We are so grateful for the experience as a family and enjoy using these emotional well-being skills in our daily lives.

— DEIDRE K. FONTENOT, OAKLAND

HEALTH MATTERS

OrangeObserver.com

“That’s one of the things we focus on in the group — ‘When I’m experiencing stress, how do I recognize that to be able to communicate it to be able to say I need help?’”

— Angie Hilken

anxiety caused by the pandemic. It gives children a way to get together to learn new skills while discovering they aren’t alone in their feelings.

The in-person groups meets for an hour once a week for six weeks, and one has met at a local elementary school. Children are divided into age groups: younger (kindergarten through second grade) and older (third through fifth grades).

Each session follows a scheduled routine. Angie Hilken, licensed clinical social worker, said there is security in a scheduled routine, especially for children to know what’s going to happen, when it’s going to happen.

Counselors make a list of stressful situations — such as taking a test, getting in trouble, having an ill family member or friend, or trying something new — and then ask the children to write both negative and positive responses to each stressor.

“Then we talked about, how are ways we can think about things that are maybe more negative or, even though it’s stressful, how can we think positively,” Hilken said.

The counselors have found that through fun and play, the participants are able to relax and open up about their emotions and “be

themselves,” Darnell said.

Through these sessions, the counselors discovered even really young children can experience stress and anxiety.

“Because of the pandemic, the ability for people to just be available has lessened,” Hilken said.

“Because we have all felt more stress and changes, and we’re trying to acclimate to that, and I think what gets lost is the ability to notice what’s happening for our children. We’ve been super fortunate that we have parents who say, ‘We are worried,’ or ‘We just want to make sure they’re OK … and have skills they can carry forward for the rest of their life.’”

These skills are designed to help children who are exhibiting changes in behavior, such as withdrawal or a tendency to have heightened emotional reactions, as well as sleeping and eating disruptions. Some may have become withdrawn or shown heightened emotional reactions.

“That’s one of the things we focus on in the group — ‘When I’m experiencing stress, how do I recognize that to be able to communicate it to be able to say I need help?’” Hilken said.

Letters are sent home to parents that summarize that week’s session and share tips on strengthening communication at home.

Gonzalez experienced the sessions as a parent, as well, when her daughter participated in a group.

“I was really impressed as a parent that they can recognize when they are dysregulated and how they can regulate to calm down — not just my child but everyone,” she said. “One thing we talked about is it’s OK to have all these feelings at one time, and it’s OK to talk about it, and it’s OK to express it and talk about those feelings. I think that takes care of a lot of stress.”

Normalizing mental health is important, and The Nurture Place’s goal is to help people understand that counseling is not just for folks with extreme depression.

“Reopening (after the pandemic) is also going to bring a whole new level of anxiety and stress for families,” Hilken said.

“Yes, the pandemic and what we’ve been through has been stressful, but opening provides a new level of stresses. ‘How am I going to ensure my child is safe?’”

Communication and community support are key.

“We’re really hopeful that we as a community can support families as … we’ve gone through the pandemic together, and we’re going to be coming out of it together,” Darnell said. “Even though it’s a positive adjustment, of change, it brings another level of stress, of uncertainty.”

Office Now Open 9am-7pm 7 Days a Week

Walk-In Clinic

JUNE 2021

WHAT CAN HELP The Nurture Place offers ways for children to cope with stress and emotions.

“Throughout the groups, we’re practicing sharing with one another (and) mindfulness techniques such as breathing and relaxation,” Darnell said. “We’re taking care of our bodies by making sure we’re hydrated and we’re getting a snack. That’s very important in keeping ourselves calm and healthy.”

Other tips include practicing problem-solving, conscious breathing and imagining themselves in a safe place.

Now that school is out, parents can help their children adjust by keeping basic daily routines even though it is summertime. Parents should plan a time of connection with their children, including game nights, dance parties, exercise and fun activities they can plan together.

“One very helpful thing parents can do for their kids this summer … is listen,” Hilken said. “Our children express their needs sometimes through words but most often through behaviors; when we can slow down and notice, we are better able to meet those needs.”

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JUNE 2021

BURPEE: The burpee has been around since the 1930s but in the last several years has become one of the most popular exercises around.

DO THE BURPEE COUNT 1: Drop into a squat position with your hands on the ground.

SPORTS EDITOR

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COUNT 2: Kick your feet back, placing your body into a plank position while keeping your arms extended.

COUNT 3: From this position, do a push-up.*

COUNT 5: Jump up from the squat position.

LOVE/HATE RELATIONSHIP

For those with a fondness of the burpee — including Lovette — there’s a level of pseudo selfloathing that goes into it. But when it gets ingrained into your system, you can’t just not do it.

“When we go on vacation — if I’m flying somewhere and they don’t have a gym — I’ll do 100 burpees, and that will be my workout for the day while I’m out of town,” Lovette said. “Nothing is going to hit as many body parts and as many muscle features, as well as your cardio, as doing 100 burpees.”

Proponents of the exercise note its bare-boned nature — with it not requiring any kind of equipment — which allows for folks to

get the exercise in wherever they want, without any constrictions.

And with it hitting on muscles all over the body, as well as getting your heart going, it’s the complete package, Lovette said.

It’s such a popular exercise that it’s often used as a tool to bring awareness and raise money for certain causes. One well-known example is that of Burpees for Vets — put on by the Courage Foundation — which raises awareness and funds for veterans suffering from PTSD. Although burpees do offer a full-body workout with no need for equipment, not everyone is a fan of them — that’s where Kurtz comes in.

“My thought — anytime I’m programming an exercise — is, ‘Why are we doing the exercise?

What is the point of doing the exercise?’” Kurtz said. “And the core values that I have in our strength programs is protect the athlete, and get them to move well and move strong. Then to thrive is the fifth (core value) … and one of those is enjoying exercise.

“The burpee exercise has a lot of potential for injuries,” he said.

“You’re dropping down on the ground — jamming your wrist into the ground — forcing your wrist into extension, and that puts a lot of pressure on the wrist and can lead to wrist injuries.

And then, as you drop down, you’re putting a huge amount of stress on the front part of your shoulder, which is also the weakest part of your shoulder.”

Other issues of note that come with the burpee is that the quick up-and-down movement can cause dizziness and light-headedness, while constant repetition can overwork joints and other parts of the body.

With those concerns, Kurtz often offers other solutions to those looking for a full-body workout, which also offers cardio perks.

“You could do a med-ball slam to squat to overhead press,” Kurtz said. “The med-ball slam is really working on your interior core and core power, the squatting down incorporates your entire lower-body strength, and then going into a thrust — or a press — then incorporates upper-body strength. You can do those as fast as you want and get your heart rate up.”

The burpee can be broken down into five different movements:

TROY HERRING

he burpee: Two words that either will make a fitness fanatic look at you in disgust or drop down and put on a show.

There is no in-between.

The exercise has been around since the 1930s thanks to its creation by U.S. physiologist Royal H. Burpee, who developed the burpee test. However, in the past two decades, it has exploded throughout the fitness world and become a fitness staple in the process.

A big part of that reason, said Micah Kurtz — who serves as Windermere Preparatory School’s strength, conditioning and athletic development coach — is the rising popularity of the CrossFit movement. Lee Lovette, who co-owns CrossFit Winter Garden with his wife, Alexis, agrees.

“I’ve been doing CrossFit for over a decade now, I’ve been a programmer for six years — so as someone who writes workouts, I’ve been writing it into workouts for six years,” Lovette said. “But I’ve had the joy of experiencing burpees — or something like a burpee — for the last 20 years.”

THE EXERCISE YOU LOVE TO HATE

COUNT 4: Jump your feet back into the squat position.

* THE PUSH-UP CAN BE ELIMINATED TO CREATE A FOUR-COUNT BURPEE.

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Office Hours:

Mon-Fri 8AM-5PM

By Appointment Only Saturday Mornings 8-12

1551 Boren Drive, Suite A • Ocoee, FL 34761 Wellington Esquea, PA-C • Dr. Bindu Kakkanatt Dr. Shaista Usmani • Dr. Shahid Usmani

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Call 407-395-2037 • www.OcoeeKidsDocs.com

HEALTH MATTERS

FINANCIAL HEALTH

OrangeObserver.com

When, why should you refinance?

A Winter Garden direct lender shares tips for folks considering refinancing their mortgage and other loans.

AMY QUESINBERRY COMMUNITY EDITOR

There have been few positive aspects to the COVID-19 pandemic, but one piece of good news for homeowners is the reduction in market interest rates. Many folks have elected to refinance their mortgage at a time when the rates have reached as low as 2.5%.

Refinancing your mortgage basically means you are trading in your old mortgage for a new one — and possibly a new balance. When you refinance your mortgage, your bank or lender pays off your old mortgage with the new one.

Homeowners refinance to take advantage of lower market interest rates, cash out a portion of their equity or reduce their monthly payment with a longer repayment term.

Ralph DiSciullo, owner and branch manager of American Financial Network, in Winter Garden, has been a lender for seven years.

As a direct lender, DiSciullo essentially eliminates the middle man — the mortgage broker who connects the clients with the lenders.

“Seven, eight, nine years ago, banks got real strict on whom they can lend to,” he said. “We have banks calling us — they can’t handle the client because of (a number of) reasons, maybe poor credit.”

A person’s credit score is an important factor in determining the interest rate of the loan he or she is able to obtain based on his or her creditworthiness.

“A good credit score is anything over 750,” DiSciullo said.

“Between 650 and 750 is average.

Banks won’t usually touch anyone under 640, but I will go down to a 500 credit score. … I won’t tell you no, I’ll show you the path to take to be able to refinance your home.”

He said homeowners save more money if they can decrease the interest rate by a whole percentage point. This savings can be poured

QUESTIONS TO ASK WHEN CONSIDERING HOME REFINANCING n How much equity do I have in my home? n What is my credit score? n What are my goals? n What are the terms of my current mortgage? n Is refinancing worth the cost? n Can I afford the closing costs and other costs related to refinancing? n Do I have the time to dedicate to researching my best options? n What are the refinancing pitfalls?

back into the life of the loan to reduce monthly payments. It also can be used to make renovations to the home or install a pool, or it can help pay off high-interest credit card bills.

Six months ago, people could obtain an interest rate of 2.5% to 2.75%; however, inflation has caused that percentage rate to climb to between 3% and 4% since the first part of the year.

But depending on the interest rate of the original mortgage, that still could mean quite a savings.

One of the downsides of refinancing is that it costs money to take out a new mortgage to pay off the old one. The homeowners will pay the same costs as when they first bought the house, including title insurance, as well as origination, application and closing fees.

Experts recommend against refinancing if homeowners don’t plan to stay in their home long, because they will end up spending more than they save. It’s important to calculate the break-even point on these costs and find out exactly when one begins reaping the benefits of the lower interest rate. In some cases, it could take two or three years.

DiSciullo said anyone considering a refinance should do their research. Find out if you are dealing with a broker or direct lender, learn what kind of interest rates the company has and ask about closing costs.

Homeowners with high credit card balances could benefit from refinancing.

“Say someone is paying 20% interest on their credit card; now they’re paying 3%, so there’s a significant savings there,” DiSciullo said. “It’s working the numbers.”

Refinancing a mortgage and combining debt — such as credit cards or vehicle and student loans — could result in a monthly payment increase of $600, but if it reduces $600 in monthly payments that have a high percentage rate, it actually produces a significant savings.

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JUNE 2021

Is it Time for a Nephrologist?

Kidney disease increases your chances of having a stroke or heart attack.

Major risk factors for kidney disease include diabetes, high blood pressure, and family history of kidney failure.

Chronic Kidney Disease, the “silent disease”, often has no symptoms in its early stages and can go undetected until it is very advanced. Each year, kidney disease kills more people than breast or prostate cancer.

Advanced Kidney Care of Central Florida specializes in diseases of the Kidney, Urine, Hypertension, Kidney Stones, Dialysis and Kidney Transplantation care.

If you have concerns about your kidney health, contact us at 352-240-3812 (Winter Garden) or 352-240-3812 (Clermont) G CCEPTIN NOW A TS

TIEN NEW PA

orid ntralf e c e r a c ney www.KidneyC areCentralFlorida.com · akccf@kid

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OrangeObserver.com

JUNE 2021

BRAINFOOD

The Observer answers kids’ burning curiosities.

Eye Spy I Danielle Hendrix // Associate Editor Did you know that we don’t really see with our eyes but, instead, with our brain?

That’s because our eyes are connected to our brain via an optic nerve, which allows them to communicate through electrical signals.

CILIARY MUSCLE

SCLERA

An extension of the iris and connected to the lens, this allows the lens to change shape and become thicker or thinner.

The white part of the eye.

This provides support for the eye and helps it keep its shape.

OPTIC NERVE

CORNEA

This connects the eye to the brain and allows them to communicate through important electrical signals.

If the nerve is damaged, it could prevent you from seeing out of that eye.

A specific part of the clear conjunctiva, the cornea covers the iris and pupil, allowing light to pass through and into the middle of the iris.

PUPIL

The dark opening in the middle of your eye.

This allows light to enter your eye.

LENS

Just like a camera lens, this part of the eye changes shapes to adjust how much light is let in.

CONJUNCTIVA

This forms a clear and moist outer layer around the eye and protects it using mucus and tears.

MACULA

RETINA

IRIS

The colored part of the eye.

Do you have blue, brown, green or hazel eyes?

Eye color is determined by genetics.

The inside lining in the back of the eye that changes light waves into electrical signals for the brain to receive.

This is how you interpret information your eyes have taken in.

Part of the retina, the macula is responsible for our central vision, most of our color vision and the fine detail of what we see.

VITREOUS BODY/ VITREOUS HUMOR

A clear, gelatin-like substance that helps support the shape of the eye by attaching to the retina with tiny fibers. Vitreous means glass-like.

How Do Glasses Work?

Everyone’s eyes are a little bit different, and sometimes all the parts of the eye don’t work together as they should — hence why some people need glasses and some don’t.

Glasses and contact lenses work by correcting refractive problems — or bending light rays in a way that lets you see clearly. Glasses are able to correct vision because they allow the eye to focus light on the right spot in the retina to produce the clearest image.

Two common refractive problems that can be corrected by glasses are nearsightedness and farsightedness. Nearsightedness, or myopia, means a person can see things close up but has difficulty seeing those that are far way. Farsightedness, or hyperopia, is just the opposite. A farsighted person can see things far away but has trouble seeing them up close.

MYOPIA (Nearsightedness)

“There are portions of our brain that are responsible for our vision, (such as) the occipital lobe (back of the head),” said optometrist Dr. Umar Ahmed, of Ahmed Eye Associates, located within Pearle Vision Ocoee. “Think about a bunch of wiring going through the eye connecting back to that area. That wiring is bringing different stimuli of what we’re seeing.”

That optic nerve is just one of the many parts of the eye, too. Parts such as the optic nerve, cornea, retina and lens all work together to help us see properly. When the parts don’t work as they should, that’s when our vision is affected.

To make it simple, Ahmed said he sections the eye into three main sections whenever he does his eye exams — the front, middle and back of the eye.

At the front of the eye, Ahmed looks at the corneal tissue to ensure it’s clear and free of scratches and other issues.

In the middle part of the eye, Ahmed looks at the lens — about the size of an M&M candy — to ensure it’s working properly. Finally, at the back of the eye, he looks at components like the optic nerve and the macula to ensure there aren’t any signs of macular degeneration or glaucoma.

HYPEROPIA (Farsighted)

Focal Plane

Focal Plane

Uncorrected

Uncorrected

Concave lens

Corrected

Convex lens

Corrected

Illustration by Lindsay Cannizzaro // Creative Services

OrangeObserver.com

HEALTH MATTERS

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JUNE 2021

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HEALTH MATTERS

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