06.17.21 West Orange Times & Observer

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

Observer Winter Garden, Ocoee, Oakland

YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.

VOLUME 88, NO. 24

FREE

•

THURSDAY, JUNE 17, 2021

Let the good times roll

Winter Garden city commissioners approve a resolution for golf-cart zones. SEE 2.

SPORTS

BROKEN

HEART MUSCLE MEMORIES Local gets spot on Team USA’s Special Olympics Powerlifting team.

SEE PAGE 11.

Oakland Ave. gets designer The town of Oakland will work with GAI’s Community Solutions Group to create a plan for Oakland Avenue.

SEE PAGE 5.

WRITERS’

BLOCK

YOUR TOWN OCOEE SEEKS PHOTOS FOR CALENDAR The city of Ocoee is sponsoring a calendar photo contest celebrating the beauty and uniqueness of Ocoee. Winning photos will be published in the city’s 2022 community calendar.

Amateur and professional shutterbugs are invited to submit color pictures of people at work or play in Ocoee. Capture the city’s beautiful landscape, biking, swimming, events, historic places and active community life. There is a limit of five photo entries per photographer. Photographs can be emailed to socialmedia@ ocoee.org or delivered on a flash drive or CD to Ocoee City Hall.

A contest entry form is available at ocoee.org/ PhotoContestEntry. The deadline for submissions is Aug. 2.

For more information and complete rules, call (407) 905-3100 or visit ocoee.org.

PRSRT STD ECRWSS US POSTAGE PAID WINTER GARDEN, FL PERMIT NO. 81

*****************ECRWSSEDDM****

Postal Customer

Courtesy photos

Imani Harvey was able to go outside over the weekend for the first time since March.

Five-year-old Imani Harvey’s heart is failing her, and her only hope is a transplant.

She will have to stay at Shands Hospital until she receives a new heart.

STORY ON PAGE 4.

SUMMER SCHOOL ZONE

Meet our nine Summer School Zone journalists for 2021!

SEE PAGES 8-10.

OBSERVER

|

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, JUNE 17, 2021

Winter Garden adopts golf cart resolution The resolution will allow the city to move forward with helping put into place safety measures to create golf cart-friendly zones — something the city hopes will help connect communities within Winter Garden.

TROY HERRING SPORTS EDITOR

After weeks of discussion, the Winter Garden City Commission acted on a measure to adopt a downtown golf cart district following unanimous approval during its meeting Thursday, June 10.

In previous meetings, City Manager Mike Bollhoefer asked for more time to evaluate safety concerns and how the measure would relate to state law.

“We’re very restricted and limited by state statutes … so it really precludes us

from doing a lot of different things and it ties our hands,” he said. “By state statutes — when it comes to allowing roads for golf carts — we most first and foremost find that roads are safe for golf carts, and then make a decision to allow golf carts. That’s what has made this whole exercise so difficult. The trouble is state law really hasn’t followed what has taken place in the community when it comes to golf carts.”

In the proposal, the city will make two locations — Crown Point Cross Road and the Winter Oaks neighborhood — more golf cart friendly.

“Those were easier ones to do,” Bollhoefer said. “So what we

want to do is do those first and then come back later and see how successful we are there patrolling the speed and making sure it’s safe, and if those are successful then come back and look at these other potential communities — linking them in.”

Future areas include The Oaks at Brandy Lake, Lakeview Reserve and the Lake Cove Pointe communities.

Linking these communities is a long-term goal, but communities not in the plan will have the opportunity to travel in light vehicles, which are like golf carts but faster. They also require seatbelts and tags. According to state law, light vehicles are allowed to drive on any roads with a posted speed limit 35 mph or less, as long as there are no postings stating they cannot be on the road.

With the new golf cart zones also come some changes relating to speed and safety procedures.

“Crown Point Cross Road — it’s not an arterial road, it’s a

local road — but we will lower the speed limit on that road because right now it’s at 40 mph, which makes no sense,” Bollhoefer said.

“We’re going to lower the speed limit there to 25 — we feel that is fully justifiable — and this will enable several more communities to become golf-cart accessible.

“There’s also some other communities on there we’ve added who were always eligible to get on there, they just never requested it,” he said. “So, by doing this, you can see there are a significant number of more communities now that will be golf-cart accessible.”

The section in the Winter Oaks community will not be able to become legal to drive golf carts on until signs are installed, while a 20- to 30-foot section of different-colored stamped concrete will be used to raise notice of golf carts in the area, Bollhoefer said.

The same measures will be taken on the far east end of Plant Street.

The costs will total up to $30,000.

IN OTHER NEWS n The commission motioned to approve the first reading of Ordinance 21-16 — which allows the city to issue a sales tax revenue bond to help finance transportationrelated capital improvements and parks and recreation capital improvements. The series 2021 loan proceeds will be used to finance a portion of the planning, acquisition and construction of various city capital projects, including the Dillard Street redesign project and payment of costs of issuance, city documents state. The second reading and public hearing will take place during the commission’s meeting June 24.

“That’s what it will cost to do these types of things on all these streets, but I truly believe for us to feel comfortable being safe, that’s probably the best way to approach this,” Bollhoefer said.

CHOOSE SAFE AND EXPERT EMERGENCY CARE YOU CAN TRUST. Emergencies are never convenient, but your emergency

care can be. With 24/7 care that’s right in your community, Orlando Health – Health Central Hospital has the experience and expertise to care for any emergency situation. And even in times of uncertainty, there’s one thing you can be certain of — our commitment to your safety.

OrlandoHealth.com/ER *For minor emergencies that are not life- or limb-threatening.

344296-1

2

OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

|

THURSDAY, JUNE 17, 2021

3

Hamlin saddles up for first hoedown The Hamlin Hoedown is bringing the farm to Horizon West with a Western-themed event featuring a petting zoo, pony rides and more.

DANIELLE HENDRIX

IF YOU GO

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Heroic effort The Hip-Hop Heroes performed during the main session.

I

t was all superheroes and worship at Lifebridge Church Orlando’s big Hero Headquarters Vacation Bible School, which took place from June 7 to 11.

Throughout the multi-day VBS, campers at the church took in a week filled with games, fun, music and worship and learned how to be God’s heroes as services were hosted by characters such as Commander Magnificent, Captain Marvelous and Flame.

— TROY HERRING

Rhen Myers and Sofia Murillo transformed into superheroes for the week.

Courtesy photos

Livia Meister danced along with a camper sporting her colorful cape.

Left: Mara Tulenson, aka Captain Marvelous, enjoyed her time on stage performing.

ONLINE See more at OrangeObserver.com

are neyc d i k kccf@ om · a c . a d i r o l www.KidneyCareCentralF

G CCEPTIN NOW A NTS

TIE NEW PA

HAMLIN HOEDOWN WHEN: 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, June 19 WHERE: 14111 Shoreside Way, Winter Garden COST: Free DETAILS: This three-hour community event features pony rides, a petting zoo, music, food vendors, a kids craft area, face painting and a balloon artist.

INFORMATION: bit. ly/35iEpLi

tive petting zoo (where) the kids and adults can get in there and touch the animals, look at them.

They get to really appreciate the animals, I think, because when you’re looking at it in a book, it’s much different than when you can look in its eyes.”

Noah’s Landing also is bringing two ponies to provide pony rides for children. Pony rides are first come, first served, and each ride lasts for two minutes. Riders must weigh no more than 85 pounds. Baxter said handlers will lead the ponies, but parents are welcome to walk alongside their children, too.

Easterling said the team at Hamlin enjoys bringing the community together for a day of family fun and camaraderie.

“Dress up in your favorite and cutest Western wear, (and) bring out the family,” she said. “It’s a great community event. Kids love animals and pony rides, and there will be music and food.

Bringing the community together (is) one of our favorite things to do at Hamlin. We think it’s really important, and every time we do, we see how important it is. Everyone has a great time, and we just love the opportunity to be able to do so.”

Specializing in diseases of the Kidney, Urine, Hypertension, Kidney Stones, Dialysis and Transplantation American Society of Hypertension Designated Clinical Hypertension Specialist

WINTER GARDEN

���� Winter Garden Vineland Rd, Ste ��� Winter Garden, FL ����� (���) ���-����

Dr. Bao Huynh

Dr. Said Malas

Dr. Usman Lone

355814-1

CLERMONT

���� Citrus Tower Blvd., Ste A Clermont, FL ����� (���) ���-����

c

.c o m ida r o alf entr

Break out the cowboy boots and plaid shirts — the Hamlin Hoedown is coming to town.

From 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, June 19, the green space next to Cinépolis in Hamlin will be transformed into a Western world complete with barnyard friends.

Members of the community are encouraged to saddle up and gallop on over to the free event, where they can enjoy a morning of family fun that includes face painting, a balloon artist and nostalgic farm activities.

“We’re going to have DJ Renee out there — she’s a super fun, interactive deejay,” said Heather Easterling, events and public relations coordinator for Boyd Development Corporation.

“There will be crafts, and we’ll have lots of yard games out there.

We’ll have some food trucks, and there will be a petting zoo, which is two tents with 12 animals under each tent.”

Easterling said the idea for a hoedown-themed event came when she was brainstorming with a fellow event coordinator.

“One of my event partners knew of a mobile petting zoo — which I had never heard about — and I thought it was really cool,” she said. “We just started brainstorming, and the Hamlin Hoedown became a thing.”

Noah’s Landing Mobile Petting Zoo & Pony Rides is bringing the animals in attendance, which include lambs, goats, pigs, chickens, bunnies and a surprise farm animal.

“We’ve been in the same place in Daytona Beach serving a good portion of Central Florida for 21 years now,” said Robin Baxter, owner of Noah’s Landing. “We are a family-owned business, and we offer a full petting zoo of farm animals and pony rides.

In the last few years, we have branched out to some exotic animal encounters.”

Baxter said it brings joy to her and her family when people light up at seeing the animals up close.

The animals are born and raised into the business, and they love seeing people, too.

“A lot of times, you don’t appreciate things until you can see it or put your hands on it,” Baxter said. “We have such a hands-on, interac-

4

OBSERVER

|

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, JUNE 17, 2021

Heart of the matter AMY QUESINBERRY COMMUNITY EDITOR

Friedrich Hayek

I

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 Multimedia Advertising Executives / Ann Carpenter, acarpenter@OrangeObserver.com Iggy Collazo, iggy@OrangeObserver.com Cyndi Gustafson, advertising@OrangeObserver.com Creative Services / Lindsay Cannizzaro, lcannizzaro@OrangeObserver.com Advertising Operations Manager / Allison Brunelle, abrunelle@OrangeObserver.com

CONTACT US

The West Orange Times, West Orange Times & Observer and Southwest Orange Observer are published once weekly, on Thursdays. The papers can be found in many commercial locations throughout West Orange and Southwest Orange.

If you wish to subscribe, visit our website, OrangeObserver.com, call (407) 656-2121 or visit our office, 661 Garden Commerce Parkway, Suite 180, Winter Garden.

SYMPTOMS FOR MONTHS

A DIAGNOSIS

Then McGriff received the devastating news: Imani has cardiomyopathy. That, coupled with the discovery of a too-narrow artery wall, was a death sentence for the little girl. She has been on life support since March 8 and on the transplant list since March 22.

“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.”

“Road to Serfdom,” 1944

mani Harvey was laughing and playing with her kindergarten friends at school March 5. By that afternoon, the 5-year-old bundle of energy with the mischievous grin had passed out and was rushed to the hospital with what doctors say is a failing heart.

The Lake Whitney Elementary School rising first-grader is currently on life support, where she will remain until a donor heart is located, her mother, Jackie McGriff, said.

The family lives in Orlando, but McGriff has been staying in Gainesville since Imani was transported to UF Health Shands Hospital. Amari Harvey, Imani’s twin brother, is staying with a family member in Orlando until his mother and sister return.

McGriff said her daughter has a lot of spunk and a lot of fight in her — but she’s getting tired.

“The doctors warned me this is going to be a long road,” McGriff said. “We would be here anywhere from two months to a year. Imani’s heart is very weak.”

The concerned mother started a GoFundMe page in case anyone would like to make a monetary donation toward the family’s expenses. McGriff is a single mother who was working at Publix but had to quit because she was missing too much work to be with Imani in the hospital.

She didn’t have a choice. Her daughter needs her.

Imani’s symptoms actually started last September, when the little girl passed out and was taken to the emergency room.

“They were thinking that it was more with her brain or neurology or she was having a seizure,” McGriff said.

About six weeks later, Imani passed out again; doctors ran tests on her brain but didn’t check her heart, McGriff said.

“They could never find any issues,” she said. “They kept us there three days the second time.

I left with no diagnosis. I left with no instructions. I left clueless. I didn’t know what I was going to do.”

She said Imani had been active before when she passed out — once after jumping on a trampoline and again after playing in a bounce house. McGriff kept her daughter away from those activities, hoping that would eliminate the source of the problem.

Imani had about four healthy months — until that March afternoon. But this incident was different. After passing out the previous times, she woke up and felt fine.

This time, she had a seizure on the way to the hospital and again after being transported. And then her blood pressure dropped.

Doctors put Imani on a ventilator, and that’s when they discovered her heart was the problem.

It was operating at about 55%, McGriff said. Twelve hours later, her heart function had dropped to almost 35%.

Observer

TO ADVERTISE For display or digital advertising, call (407) 656-2121.

For Classifieds, call (407) 656-2121.

Courtesy photos

Twins Imani and Amari Harvey are missing one another while she’s in the hospital.

Since March, Imani’s health chart has expanded almost weekly. She has had a blood clot removed from her brain, McGriff said, and she has had a stroke and three open-heart surgeries.

Imani was placed on a machine that acted like an artificial heart and provided a single pump on the left side of her heart.

“They did the surgery, they expanded the artery wall, but they were uncertain if her heart was going to be able to withstand getting the surgery and being able to still function on her own,” McGriff said. “Her heart had been fighting, so her heart was really weak.”

For the next three weeks, Imani experienced bad drainage in her chest, so tubes were frequently placed to drain out the fluid that was collecting behind her heart.

“Her emotional state started declining,” McGriff said. “Every two days, they were either putting in a chest tube or taking one out, and it’s painful. After that, they were telling me — I remember the day, it was a Friday. They said her heart is looking good. The original plan is her heart would get better on its own. … They said her heart looked good and (they were) setting her up for trials and turning the machine down and letting her own heart work, and they were deciding when they were taking her off the machine.”

By Sunday, McGriff said, the right side of Imani’s heart stopped.

“It was one of the worst things ever to watch,” she said. “They had hit her with the defibrillator four or five times, and they’d do CPR. And she’d come back and then flatline.”

After the second surgery, she battled with the chest tube again. About three weeks ago, so much blood had collected behind Imani’s heart that it backed up into her lungs, McGriff said. Her chest had to be cut open again to remove the massive amount of blood. McGriff was grateful to hear the blood is no longer accumulating.

SEARCH FOR A HEART

“But she is doing good now,” McGriff said. “She got off the (ventilator) about a week ago.”

While Imani and her mother await a donor heart, doctors are focusing on rehabilitating her right side, which was weakened by the stroke.

She participates in physical and occupational therapy daily. Last week, a cast was put on her right foot to realign it. They are working on her speech, too, in hopes of getting her back to the level she was before the stroke.

Even though she is tired of being in the hospital and being poked and operated on, Imani has a good attitude, her mother said. But she would like to be home, playing on the iPad with her brother, dancing, seeing her friends, eating way too much pizza and watching her favorite superhero show, “PJ Masks.”

Because children aren’t allowed in the hospital’s pediatric wing, Imani and Amari haven’t been able to see each other, so they rely on daily FaceTime sessions. McGriff drives to Orlando once a week to spend time with her son, and she said it breaks his heart — and hers — when it’s time for her to

SEND US YOUR NEWS

HOW TO HELP To make a donation to Jackie McGriff and her children, visit the GoFundMe page: bit. ly/ 3cG8WXA. So far, 279 donors have raised more than $17,000, but more will be needed to help pay bills.

McGriff is a single mother who left her job to be with her daughter in the hospital.

head back to Gainesville.

But, this is the way it must be until Imani gets a new heart — which could take up to a year, McGriff said.

“And then it’s going to be a whole completely different lifestyle for her and for us,” she said.

“But I’m just thankful to have her still. I can’t have me outlive her.

She has to outlive me.

“She’s such a sweetheart,” she said. “She’s one of the most loving little girls ever. … The girl is a real joy to be around. She definitely will change your mood if you’re ever in a bad mood.”

McGriff has a birthday in a few weeks, and she has one prayer: “Please let her get a heart for my birthday.”

If that prayer is answered, she has another one.

“Her birthday is July 22, and I would really love for her to be home by her sixth birthday,” McGriff said.

We want to hear from you. Let us know about your events, celebrations and achievements.

To contact us, send your information via email to Michael Eng, meng@ OrangeObserver.com.

WEST ORANGE TIMES The West Orange Times (USPS 687120) is published weekly for $40 per year ($50 outside of Orange County) by the Observer Media Group, 661 Garden Commerce Parkway, Winter Garden, Florida, 34787. Periodical postage paid at Winter Garden, Florida. POSTMASTER: Send changes of address to the (name of pub; i.e., West Orange Times, West Orange Times & Observer or Southwest Orange Observer), Observer Media Group, P.O. Box 135, Lincolnshire, Illinois 60069-0135.

Observer Media Group Inc.

is locally owned.

Publisher of the Longboat Observer, East County Observer, Sarasota Observer, Siesta Key Observer, Palm Coast Observer, Ormond Beach Observer, West Orange Times & Observer, Southwest Orange Observer, Business Observer, Jacksonville Daily Record, Jacksonville Record & Observer, LWR Life Magazine, Baldwin Park Living Magazine and Season Magazine

Editor and CEO / Matt Walsh Vice President / Lisa Walsh Chairman Emeritus / David Beliles

5570 Gulf of Mexico Drive Longboat Key, FL 34228

OrangeObserver.com © 2019 The Observer Media Group Inc. All Rights Reserved

OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

|

5

THURSDAY, JUNE 17, 2021

Town hires firm for Oakland Avenue design plan

n The commission approved the final public hearing of an ordinance that allows the town to post “no parking” and “no school drop-off or pick-up” signs that are consistent with Florida Department of Transportation standards and, therefore, enforceable. The signs will apply to both vehicles and golf carts. n The commission voted to allow the Oakland Avenue Charter School to continue following its own mental health plan — instead of the plan provided by Orange County Public Schools — for the next school year. n Elected officials approved the increased teacher salary bases following the legislature’s 2020 increase allocation. OACS was allocated $91,475 to increase the salary bases. The salaries for teachers with a bachelor’s degree will range from $43,615.50 for one year of service or less up to $46,377.50 for 11 years of service. n In the town manager’s report, Steve Koontz made several announcements: The town will receive a $500,000 legislative appropriation to use on the wastewater lift station, the town was awarded a grant to improve the African American Historic Cemetery, Orange County has posted a bid notice for Oakland’s roundabout project, and the playground has been installed in Speer Park.

The town of Oakland will be working with GAI’s Community Solutions Group to create a design plan for Oakland Avenue.

The Oakland Town Commission approved at its June 8 meeting a scope of services to be performed

by GAI Consultants, a national planning, engineering and environmental design firm. The firm previously worked in the Oakland Park community and in Winter Garden.

In 2018, the town of Oakland created a Mobility Master Plan that provided conceptual framework for the town’s grid street system, which has been a useful tool for guiding development and various new projects. The 2018 plan called for specifics along Oakland Avenue, such as 6-footwide sidewalks with 6 and 8 feet of landscaping on either side and bike lanes, but provided few other details. It did not require the town to widen the road or acquire additional rights of way.

“However, the design of the various streets and intersections is too general to proceed direction to engineering design and construction,” according to a background document Town Planner Jay Marder prepared for the commission. “A more detailed design analysis with alternative recommendations is proposed.”

GAI will be tasked with completing concepts for the future character of Oakland Avenue, providing elements of “Complete Streets” design principles for the town.

“The concept and alternatives will be realistic based on base information provided by the town,” Marder wrote. “The chosen concepts will result from community meetings then prioritized for subsequent engineering, construction and funding.”

The idea is to make Oakland Avenue more pedestrian, bicycle and golf cart friendly while maintaining the town charm.

“We think of the word Mayber-

ry, and people laugh about that, but that’s what we try at,” Commissioner Mike Satterfield said.

“The ultimate goal is small-town charm. It sounds like you have the vision of what we want. … We have learned so much. … These drawings really need to be as detailed as possible (so there’s no confusion).”

Community meetings will be scheduled so residents can share their thoughts.

“Then we can work off of what the community wants,” Town Manager Steve Koontz said.

Oakland Avenue is included in the Green Mountain Scenic Byway as part of the federally designated Florida Scenic Highways program.

NEED SPACE?

CALL NOW!

LOCALLY OWNED SELF STORAGE “LIVE LOCAL, STORE LOCAL”

358201-1 XNSP17973

COMMUNITY EDITOR

Maguire Road Storage

Stoneybrook West Storage

407-905-7898 WWW.MAGUIREROADSTORAGE.COM

407-654-3037 WWW.STONEYBROOKWESTSTORAGE.COM

IN OCOEE

MAGUIREROADSTORAGE@CFL.RR.COM

IN WINTER GARDEN

STONEYBROOKWESTSS@GMAIL.COM

PROTECT IT WITH OWNER’S TITLE INSURANCE Suite 200B in the TD Bank Building 12200 W. Colonial Dr. Winter Garden, FL 34787

358196-1

n Elected officials approved the final public hearing of an ordinance that sets safety guidelines for citizens who peacefully assemble and protest during a picket. Protesters must stay at least 150 feet away from the residence of the citizen, official or celebrity they are picketing.

AMY QUESINBERRY

@Observerorange

office 407.654.8811 I cell 407.758.4479 info@treasuretitle.com I treasuretitle.com For more information, ask an ALTA member or visit homeclosing101.org

You’re invited to The Blake’s

VETERANS SEMINAR You’re invited to The Blake’s VETERANS SEMINAR

BUYING or SELLING?

The Blake at Hamlin invites you to an informational Veterans seminar. Join us as we discuss the benefits The Blake at Hamlin invites you toand an informational that are available for Veterans their spouses!

Veterans seminar. Join us as we discuss the benefits that are available for Veterans and their spouses!

JOIN US AT OR L A NDO HE A LTH HOR IZON W EST HOSPITA L RD EDNESDAY, JUNE 10:00 A.M. P.M. L JOINON USW AT OR L A NDO HE A23 LTHAT HOR IZON W OR EST12:30 HOSPITA

ON W EDNESDAY, JUNE 23 R D AT 10:00 A.M. OR 12:30 P.M. 1700 PORTER ROAD | WINTER GARDEN, FL 34787 1700 PORTER ROAD | WINTER GARDEN, FL 34787

RSVP BY 6/22 AT (407) 743-7529 RSVP BY 6/22 AT (407) 743-7529

ELITE PARTNERS III REALTY

FREE

home value report in 24 hours

850-628-4455

www.tennillebiggers.com TennilleBiggers@kw.com

OPENING NOWTAKING TAKING RESERVATIONS OPENINGTHIS THIS SUMMER SUMMER | |NOW RESERVATIONS Pre-Opening Offi ceceAddress: ShoresideWay, Way, Suite | Winter Garden, FL 34787 Pre-Opening Offi Address: 14422 14422 Shoreside Suite 100100 | Winter Garden, FL 34787 www.blakeathamlin.com www.blakeathamlin.com 355535-1

n The commission approved the first public hearing of three ordinances pertaining to the annexation, Comp Plan amendment and industrial rezoning of the 6.65-acre Cra-Mar Groves Inc. property south of West Colonial Drive for mini-warehouse development in the future.

The Orlando company will expand on Oakland’s Mobility Master Plan and create a concept for development and other projects on one of the town’s main thoroughfares.

358228-1

IN OTHER NEWS

OBSERVER

|

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, JUNE 17, 2021

Windermere leaders approve first phase of redevelopment plan

DANIELLE HENDRIX ASSOCIATE EDITOR

A proposed redevelopment project in downtown Windermere has passed its first hurdle.

Town Council members voted Tuesday, June 8, to approve an ordinance that rezones 2.17 acres at the northeast corner of Main Street and East Sixth Avenue to Planned Unit Development.

They also approved the property’s preliminary development plan.

Council Member Andy Williams abstained from the vote.

Town Planner Brad Cornelius said the PUD process for this project first began in 2019. It underwent a conceptual plan review in October 2020. On Feb. 16, the Development Review Board recommended approval by Town Council for the rezoning and PDP. Residents first got a glimpse at the proposed project during a workshop March 31. The property is owned by Jim Karr and partners, and the redevelopment would require demolishing the existing buildings and constructing two new commercial buildings with up to 21,750 square feet of retail, office and restaurant uses. The two single-family homes at the back of the property along Oakdale Street also would be demolished.

During the June 8 Town Council meeting, Cornelius said rezoning the property to PUD does not authorize any development but rather assigns the correct zoning and implements the town’s master plan, adopted in 2004. It also sets the maximum limitations on development of the site.

“The property itself has a land use and zoning of commercial or residential within the town overlay district,” Cornelius said.

“What that says is because it’s in that overlay district, the only way this property can be developed that’s consistent with that town master plan … you have to rezone the property to PUD. It has to go through this process so the town and Town Council can ensure that

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Town Council members gave the green light for rezoning 2.17 acres of land in downtown Windermere to allow for future development.

FRIDAY, JUNE 18

what’s going there is consistent with the intent and purpose of that master plan the was adopted. All the development on this property is regulated by the design guidelines.”

The proposed new buildings — none of which would be taller than 35 feet — would front Main Street and the western portion of the property along East Sixth Avenue.

A 20-foot-wide landscape buffer with a 6-foot wall would be located adjacent to Oakdale Street.

Parking and stormwater retention would be located on the side of the wall that faces the project.

Today, Cornelius said, the existing development on the site is about 10,774 square feet of office and retail space, plus the icecream shop and two single-family homes. The net increase, should the project’s final development plan be approved, is estimated at 10,976 square feet.

“There’s already construction out there, as we all know, and we’re generally doubling what’s out there today,” Cornelius said.

Karr and his team also requested a waiver from one of the requirements — providing drawings of proposed building facades. This is due to uncertainty regarding how much room the on-site septic system for wastewater will require.

“They’re not asking for a waiver from any of the design standards or requirements they have to meet,” Cornelius said. “You all will see as part of the final design plan what the buildings will look like. … The final step, which would come after tonight … is the final development plan, where they do the final engineering, the final design. You’ll get some of the questions you’ve had fully answered and the full details of it as part of that process.”

Cornelius added there still are checkpoints the project has to meet going forward before the team can break ground. Heading into the final development plan process, town leaders and residents will have plenty of opportunities for input via public hearings and workshops.

“It’ll come back to the Development Review Board for their review,” Cornelius said. “It’ll come back to Town Council for hearings with you all, as well. We’re going to have workshops again and go through the process.”

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.

RIBBON CUTTING: CYCLEBAR 5 p.m. Thursday, June 17, at Cyclebar Hamlin, 16016 New Independence Parkway, Suite 120, Winter Garden.

(407) 656-1304.

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 19

HAMLIN HOEDOWN 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, June 19, at Hamlin Town Center, 14111 Shoreside Way, Winter Garden. Enjoy a morning of family fun with pony rides, a petting zoo with barnyard friends, DJ Renee, crafts and nostalgic farm activities. For more, visit bit.ly/3iqPt0P. WINE-DERMERE 1 to 5 p.m. Saturday, June 19, at The Grove Orlando, 4750-4757 The Grove Drive, Windermere. During this Progressive Wine Tasting Event, you may sample up to 15 wines from the featured 50 wines at host locations around the complex. Wine-tasting passports are $25 and include 15 tasting tickets, a keepsake wine glass and a listing of wines served by host locations. Visit thegroveorlando.com.

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 22

CUISINE CORNER: JAMAICAN BEEF PATTY 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, June 22, online. A Jamaican patty is an essential cuisine

for many Jamaicans. Join culinary expert Dianne Morin as she demonstrates how to make a traditional patty filling and crust. To attend, visit attend.ocls.info/event/5044680.

OCLS SUMMER LIVESTREAM SERIES 2 p.m. Tuesdays through June 29, online. Enjoy wild and fun entertainment from the comfort of home this summer with these livestreams featuring a guest performer on the OCLS YouTube and Facebook pages.

ROTARY CLUB OF WINDERMERE Meets at 6:54 a.m. Tuesdays at Windermere Town Hall, 520 Main St. For more, visit windermererotary.org.

ROTARY CLUB OF WINTER GARDEN Meets at noon Tuesdays at Tanner Hall, 29 W. Garden Ave., Winter Garden. Visit rotaryclubofwintergarden. org.

THURSDAY, JUNE 24

WEST ORANGE CHAMBER BUSINESS AFTER HOURS 5:30 p.m. Thursday, June 24, at Hortense Event & Conference Center, 215 N. Clarke Road, Ocoee. Cost for chamber members is $5 in advance or $10 at the door. Cost for nonmembers is $25. For more, email cwilson@wochamber.com.

FRIDAY, JUNE 25

MATTHEW GURNSAY: THE KILTED MAN 6:30 p.m. Friday, June 25, online.

Enjoy a performance by Matthew Gurnsey, aka The Kilted Man. Gurnsey delights audiences with his rousing performances of traditional Irish and Scottish music. To attend, visit attend.ocls.info/event/5025443.

TAYLOR RICH 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friday, June 25, at the Healthy West Orange Arts and Heritage Center, 126 W Petris Ave, Oakland. The town of Oakland is highlighting up-and-coming guitarist, Taylor Rich. In partnership with the HAPCO Music Foundation, the songstress will perform original songs and covers. For more, visit facebook.com/ HWOAHatOakland.

FRIDAY, JULY 2

RED, WHITE AND BLUES 7 to 9 p.m. Friday, July 2, in Downtown Winter Garden, Plant Street. For more, visit cwgdn.com/318/SpecialEvents.

SATURDAY, JULY 3

FARMERS MARKET INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, July 3, at the downtown pavilion, 104 S. Lakeview Ave., Winter Garden. The marke will feature a vendor booth patriotic contest, live music and a family game zone. For more, visit cwgdn. com/318/Special-Events.

358726-1

WE’RE IN THE

ZONE

THE WORLD’S GREATEST FIREARMS EXPERIENCE

EVERY THURSDAY

As students head back to classes - online or face-to-face - families are walking a tightrope, trying to balance safety with continued academic growth.

The Observer School Zone will be your source in West Orange with the latest school news, photo galleries and what’s happening during these crazy times.

TAKE YOUR FIRST SHOTS AT SHOOTERS WORLD FREE CLASS DAILY FOR BEGINNERS weekdays at 6pm, weekends at noon*

Head of the Class Sponsors

FOUNDA ION ACADEMY FOUNDA ION ACADEMY

In the Zone Sponsors

School Sponsors

JO BARSH

Children 7+ are welcome and must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. *Please call ahead to confirm class time, as classes may change due to private events

358234-1

6

407.500.GUNS | WWW.SHOOTERSWORLD.COM/ORLANDO | 4850 LAWING LANE ORLANDO, FL 32811

OBSERVER

FROM THE WINTER GARDEN HERITAGE FOUNDATION FROM THE ARCHIVES Juneteenth is an observance held every June 19 to remember when Union soldiers enforced the Emancipation Proclamation and freed all remaining slaves in Texas on that day in 1865 — two-andone-half years after the Emancipation Proclamation of January 1863.

Today, we also honor retired Lt. Col. Sylvester Johnson, who served his country on three continents during a military career that saw 20 years of service beginning in 1955.

While a major, Johnson, one of three brothers who fulfilled military duties in Southeast Asia, served alongside fellow Maj. Colin Powell.

80 years ago

The best fishing of the summer season was enjoyed by Lake Apopka fishermen. Both dock and boat fishermen were lucky; bass up to 8 3/4 pounds were among the reported catches from the dock.

70 years ago

The Winter Garden Welfare League held a swimming party and supper at the Lake Butler home of Mrs. John Harrell in lieu of the regular business meeting. Mrs. L.A. Phillips and Mrs. Herbert Davis co-hosted the party with Mrs. Harrell.

55 years ago

Marian Alice Hawk, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ernest Hawk of Winter Garden, graduated from Florida Southern College with a music degree and was presented the Gaylor Music Medal. She planned to teach music in the public schools.

40 years ago

West Orange High junior varsity cheerleaders were named: Barbara Spears, Laura Auffant, Suzie Massa, Susan McCroy, Ann Dempsey, Dayna Maddox, Peggy Watters, Julie Ezzard,

Call ANYTIME to receive State Farm Good Health Insurance OPENour ENROLLMENT Nov.Neighbor 15 thruservice Feb. 15

Agent ChFC, service CLU, CLF Call ANYTIMECraig to receiveMartin our State Farm Good -Neighbor

Craig Martin Craig Martin

Agent - ChFC, CLU, CLF Craig@CraigMartinInsurance.com www.CraigMartinInsurance.com Craig@CraigMartinInsurance.com Craig@CraigMartinInsurance.com Agent - ChFC, CLU, CLF www.CraigMartinInsurance.com www.CraigMartinInsurance.com 13330 W. Colonial Dr., Suite 110 • Winter Garden, FL 34787 Craig@CraigMartinInsurance.com 13330Shoreside W. Colonial • Winter Garden, FL 34787 14416 Way,Dr., SuiteSuite 140 •110 Winter Garden, FL 34787

The greatest compliment you can give iscompliment a referral!

The greatest you can give is a referral!

The greatest compliment you can give is a referral!

358224-1

www.CraigMartinInsurance.com 13330 W. Colonial Dr., Suite 110 • Winter Garden, FL Hablamos 34787 Español Hablamos Español Hablamos Español

Salerina Bennett and Wendy Cooper.

20 years ago

The city of Ocoee broke ground for the city’s new Family Aquatic Center with Mayor

Scott Vandergrift and commissioners Rusty Johnson, Danny Howell and Scott Anderson among those handling the dirtturning shovels.

Attorney at Law

407-656-5521 blairjohnsonlaw.com

Our Services

Wills/Advance Directives Estates Corporation/LLC Commercial Transactions Landlord/Tenant Real Estate: Contracts, Closings, Short Sales, Deed in Lieu And Other Matters 358191-1

Health Insurance OPEN ENROLLMENT Nov. 15 thru Feb. 15 Health Insurance OPENour ENROLLMENT Nov.Neighbor 15 thru service Feb. 15 Call ANYTIME to receive State Farm Good

407-656-1040 Now Hiring Licensed Insurance Professionals

JUNE 11, 1981 Helmy Furniture in Winter Garden advertised its huge Father’s Day sale in the June 11, 1981, issue of The Times. What dad doesn’t want a plush swivel rocker recliner with built-in heaters and vibrators? And they were available in all variety of colors — and even a few patterns — too. The store was at 1010 S. Dillard St., now occupied by the Edgewood Ranch Thrift Shop.

BLAIR M. JOHNSON

AUTO • HOME • LIFE • BANK

407-656-1040 407-656-1040

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.

45 years ago

Dr. Marc A. Hall, DVM, opened a small-animals practice on Bluford Avenue in Ocoee. Dr. Hall, his wife, Denise, and their 2-year-old daughter, Erin, planned to live in Windermere.

Editorial: The Class of 1976 at West Orange High School has helped write a new chapter of history for our area. It is the first class to graduate from our new high school. The class began its senior year on the old Lakeview High campus and moved at mid-year into the new facilities.

7

THURSDAY, JUNE 17, 2021

Welcome to a new breed of personalized pet medicine.

OPENING FALL 2021

Proudly serving West Orange County for over 40 years 425 S. Dillard St., Winter Garden, FL 34787

student physicals $30

WINDERMERE

359472-1

THESE OLD TIMES

|

TELEMEDIC INE AVAILABLE 407-960-218 8 Quality healt hcare at your finge Seven Days rtips, a Week 9am-7pm

On-site services include X-Rays, IV rehydration, drug screens, work & DOT physicals, auto accident evaluation & injury care, and FDA Approved Covid-19 Testing

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

358232-1

WEST ORANG E HISTO RY

OrangeObserver.com

OBSERVER

|

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, JUNE 17, 2021

Student writers present Summer School Zone ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Y

ou may notice the content in our Observer School Zone section of the paper looks a little different over the next few months.

That’s because the Observer writers are taking a summer break of their own to allow local students to contribute their own content.

This year, we have nine students from three West Orange-area schools — Horizon West Middle School, The First Academy and Windermere Preparatory School — ready to grab their pens and write about topics and issues important to them. Meet our 2021 Summer Observer School Zone journalists.

You may recognize Horizon West Middle School eighthgrader Gabe Gomes from our Summer School Zone team last year. The 12-year-old is better known as The Masked Reader, his YouTube alter ego that reviews books.

Although Gabe loves reading and writing, his favorite subject is math.

“Although I really like the

other subjects, I love doing calculations, working on tough problems and feeling exhilaration when I finally solve one,” he said.

Gabe is passionate about books and has a voracious love of reading, but he also enjoys playing video games and participating in sports like basketball and football.

If he could visit anywhere in the world, Gabe would choose France because he wants to experience the food, see the

culture and visit iconic tourist attractions like the Eiffel Tower.

He is looking forward to writing

HAILEY HOLBDY, WINDERMERE PREP

HANNAH NIXON THE FIRST ACADEMY

Hailey Holbdy is a 16-year-old rising junior at Windermere Prep. Her favorite subject in school is math “because I always start to think I am really smart when I know how to do it.”

Hailey loves playing sports or spending time with friends and family. If she could go anywhere in the world, she would like to visit Africa, because she’s always wanted to go on an African safari.

This summer, Hailey hopes to write about sports and breaking news. She also loves writing and reading reviews

Hannah Nixon, 17, will be a senior at The First Academy this upcoming school year.

She is excited to be exercising her writing skills this summer but says her favorite subject is science.

Hannah is also an athlete who plays lacrosse and volleyball, although she also enjoys reading and going to the beach with her friends in her spare time.

If she could visit any place in the world, Hannah said she would choose Italy, because of its beautiful beaches and a desire to experience the culture there.

This summer, Hannah hopes

on entertainment and current trends.

“I love talking and writing about all sorts of things, but I am mainly excited to be on this team because I just moved to Florida, and I thought this would be a good introduction into my new life here,” she said.

for Summer School Zone and sharing his thoughts on books he has read.

“I am excited to join because I believe that kids and adolescents have a lot of potential, and we can do and write great things when given a chance to demonstrate that to the public,” Gabe said. “The Summer School Zone would also give me a challenge, and I like that.”

to write about topics such as service-hours opportunities for teenagers to meet college and scholarship requirements.

“I am excited to be a part of the Summer (School) Zone team, because I want to learn more about the community around me as a writer and experience writing for a publication,” Hannah said.

358262-1

DANIELLE HENDRIX

GABE GOMES HORIZON WEST MIDDLE

358724-1

Nine local students ranging in age from 10 to 17 will be writing stories that are of interest to their peers and the community.

358267-1

8

OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

|

THURSDAY, JUNE 17, 2021

SUMMER SCHOOL ZONE EMMA PASTIS THE FIRST ACADEMY

Emma Pastis is a 17-year-old rising senior at The First Academy. This is Emma’s second year participating in Summer School Zone. Her love of writing stems from her favorite subject in school — English.

“I love writing, and being in yearbook class has really helped me explore and discover this interest,” Emma said.

In her spare time, Emma enjoys playing volleyball, going to the beach, hanging out with friends and working at Jeremiah’s Italian Ice. If she could go anywhere in the world right now, she would pick a tropical place such as Hawaii.

“I hope to visit there in the next few years,” Emma said. “I have never been, and it seems to be such a cool, beautiful place.”

Emma hopes to write about

a variety of topics this summer ranging from high school and college sports to service proj-

SOFIA MACMASTER WINDERMERE PREP

ISABELLA BAKKER WINDERMERE PREP

At just 10 years old, Sofia MacMaster is one of our youngest Summer School Zone writers. Sofia will be starting sixth grade at Windermere Preparatory School this fall, and her favorite subject is science.

“I also love how science lets me question everything and try things that I’ve never done before,” Sofia said.

She loves to travel and hopes to visit Singapore one day, because it’s one of the only places in the world where street vendors have Michelin stars. Her passion for food and cooking means she enjoys trying new foods at restaurants, and she looks forward to writing about those experiences. She also loves nature and wildlife.

Sofia likes to stay busy and

At 10 years old, Isabella Bakker will be in fifth grade at Windermere Prep this fall.

Her favorite school subject is drama/theater, because it’s fun for her to pretend that she’s in a different life or a different person.

She loves singing and acting in her spare time. In fact, she has held multiple lead and supporting roles in musicals, including Maleficent in “Sleeping Beauty” and Elsa in “Frozen.” She has won the school’s W Factor competition two years in a row. The young artist hopes to visit the place where stars are born someday.

“If I could go anywhere in the world, I would go to Hol-

is involved in extracurriculars ranging from tennis, swimming and chess to fencing, piano, cooking and crocheting/sewing.

“I am so excited to be a part of the Summer School Zone team, because I get a chance to share my opinions and ideas with people in my community,” Sofia said. “I could also write about how the pandemic has affected so many kids like me over the past year, and how we are moving forward from my perspective.”

ects, TV shows, movies and the community.

“I am excited to be part of the Summer School Zone team because it is such a great way to connect with the community,” Emma said. “I’m also excited and thankful to have the opportunity to step into the shoes of a real journalist and get to write during the summer.”

MORE WRITERS ON PAGE 10

WE THINK BEYOND TRADITIONAL EDUCATION

TO TRANSFORM LEARNING

100% College Acceptances in 41 states, DC, and 5 countries including Brown University, Vanderbilt University, Case Western Reserve University, University of California, Berkeley Eleven students in the Class of 2022 recognized as National Merit Scholars • International Baccalaureate Diploma & Certificate Program • Collaborations with MIT, The Juilliard School, and UNICEF • Award winning Fine Arts Programs including theatre, visual arts, dance, and music

(407) 905-7737 info@windermereprep.com windermereprep.com

359475-1

SCHEDULE A TOUR TODAY!

• Differentiated Curriculum for PreK-3 to Grade 12

• Athletic program that offers over 21 different sports for Grade 6 - 12

Increase the value of your home and save money with one simple phone call!

Increase the value of your home and money one simple Atsave Lake Apopka Natural with Gas, we’re helping families phone call! like yours connect to affordable, reliable, and

At Lake Apopka Natural Gas, we’re helping families like efficient natural gas, with appliances that pay yours connect to of affordable, reliable,and and efficient natural Increase the value your home Increase the value oftopay your home and dividends for years come.

Studies show gas, with appliances that dividends for years to come. save money with oneone simple phone call! save money with simple phone call! a house with natural gas has a 6% greater Studies show a home with natural gas has a 6% greater At Lake Apopka Natural Gas, we’re helping families like Natural resale value than an all-electric home. gas is right resale value than an all-electric home.

Atconnect Lake Apopka Naturalreliable, Gas, we’re yours to affordable, and helping efficient families natural like door.gas yoursoutside connect your to Natural affordable, reliable, efficient natural is rightand outside your door.

www.langd.org

358271-1

gas, with appliances that pay dividends for years to come. gas,show with aappliances paygas dividends for years to come.

Studies home withthat natural has a 6% greater Studies showan a all-electric home withhome. natural gas has 6% greater Discover services and offers available in your neighborhood resale value than Natural gasa is right resale value than an a all-electric home.

Natural gas is right Discover and offers available outside your door. by giving us callservices at 407-656-2734 ext.

307 outside your door. in your neighborhood by giving us or email marketing@langd.org.

Discover services and offers available in your neighborhood a callavailable at ext. 307 by giving us a services call at 407-656-2734 ext.407-656-2734 307 in your neighborhood Discover and offers or email marketing@langd.org. by giving us a call at 407-656-2734 ext. 307 or email marketing@langd.org or email marketing@langd.org.

www.langd.org www.langd.org

lywood because there is more opportunities to become a singer or actress,” Isabella said.

Isabella enjoys writing about a person’s biography or about their life, and it’s something she hopes to be able to do this summer.

“I’m excited to be on the Summer School Zone team, because I love writing, and I think there will be many new and cool stories to write about,” Isabella said.

KHLOE EHRHARD WINDERMERE PREP

Another young writer, 10-yearold Khloe Ehrhard will be entering fifth grade at Windermere Prep this fall. Her favorite subject is writing because she likes to create her own worlds that most people don’t get to live in.

“I like making my own stories up and writing biographies,” Khloe said.

Khloe is a dancer and enjoys it because she gets to show her emotion and work hard. In her free time, she likes to hang out with her friends.

If Khloe could go anywhere in the world , she would choose to visit Paris, because she wants to learn about the people who live here. Khloe also wants to see the Eiffel Tower “as it glistens in the moonlight.”

“I am super excited to be in the Summer School Zone team, because I love to write, and it is a great opportunity to write for a paper that other people will read besides my classmates and show off my skills,” Khloe said.

9

10

OBSERVER

|

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, JUNE 17, 2021

SUMMER SCHOOL ZONE Asha Sharma will be going into sixth grade at Windermere Prep this fall, and her favorite subject is art.

“In art class, you get to create whatever you want and you have so much freedom — nothing feels wrong,” she said.

In her free time, Asha enjoys playing tennis and piano, swimming, crafting, painting, and playing with her cat and dog.

Asha would love to visit Tokyo, Japan.

“I would like to go to Tokyo to try all the cool foods, learn about ancient cultures, go to the Tokyo DisneySea and ride the Shinkansen bullet trains,” Asha

At 15 years old, Lily Redman is heading into her sophomore year at Windermere Prep.

Her favorite school subject is English because it broadens her understanding of the writing process itself and the deeper, thought-out concepts behind any text.

“Creative writing is my favorite area of writing because it solely relies on my imagination and the way I see things,” Lily said. “Entire worlds can come from nothing and turn into something real. It’s magic in a completely real form.”

In her free time, Lily likes to write, bake and spend time

CROSSWORD

said. “The Shinkansen bullet trains are super fast trains that run all over Japan.”

Asha also loves trying new foods and hopes to be able to write about food this summer.

“I am excited to be part of the Summer School Zone team, because I always had a passion for writing, and I can’t wait to see my article in the newspaper,” she said.

UPSCALE by Morton J. Mendelson; Edited by David Steinberg

98 Musician Yoko 99 Bowling alley button 101 Chapek’s predecessor at Disney 102 Squealer 104 Australian boot brand 107 Motionless 109 Supervillain who doubles as a clergy member? (... do?)

115 “Goodness!”

117 Distress signal 118 Represented, with “for” 119 Moth, once 120 Bicycle helmets? (... ti?)

122 Pong creator 123 On the job 124 Tree of life’s garden 125 Japanese roadster 126 Social stratum 127 ___ qua non 128 Funny Foxx 129 Leaves at a restaurant?

130 ___ Park, Colorado 131 Caraway tidbit

with family and friends at Disney. She’s also a very creative person who is passionate about the arts — specifically photography and performing on stage. She loves reading because it’s calming and allows her to transport herself somewhere she couldn’t just get in a car and go to.

“My favorite book (right now) is ‘The Invisible Life

45 Watch brand 46 U.S. govt.-backed security 47 First strategy 49 Music popular in Mumbai 50 Became taller 51 Pound of poetry 53 Zealous leader?

55 Speaks from a podium 56 Sing like Frank Sinatra 59 Sumo wrestler’s robe 63 Bluegrass instrument 65 Dinner booking, informally 67 Series of tit-for-tat tariffs, say 69 A coupe has two 70 Earlier 71 Assists 72 Viral GIF, perhaps 73 Solo such as “Vesti la giubba” 74 Barely a dent 75 One may be fed with quarters 78 ___ student (aspiring dr.)

79 Classic Langston Hughes poem DOWN 80 “Verb” or “adjective” 1 Hardly hearty 81 Consistently chosen 2 Classic camera brand 84 Tick off 3 Went on to say 85 New York’s says “Excel4 Attend by oneself sior” 5 Condiment counter at a 87 Comic musical producMexican restaurant tions 6 Tom of “The Seven Year 90 Beats by a lot Itch” 91 Piece of firewood 7 Tiny role for a huge star 93 They can’t be serious 8 x, before algebra?

97 Luxury Italian fashion label 9 Becomes involved ©2021 Universal Uclick 100 Cooks, as spinach 10 Enjoys a soak ACROSS 28 What horses can do while 48 One calling “Attention!” mi?)

101 “What a shame!”

11 Otherworldly 1 Mark, as a problem 72 TV show that was known 12 Flak jacket, say standing, surprisingly to others, informally 103 QB’s success, perhaps 5 Factions 29 Casual greeting for its ads?

52 Boxing match site 104 Female cow part 13 One or more 10 Kid-lit elephant 30 “What nerve!”

54 Toy merchant in business 76 Exude 105 Glittery rock 14 Sector 15 Supporters 77 Changing the handle of? 15 Peter out 31 Dumbfounded young by himself? (... fa?)

106 Took advantage of, as the 19 Update the style of 82 Buffalo’s lake fellow? (... sol?)

57 Farmland units system 16 ___ and well 20 Be patient for 33 Captivate romantically 83 Golden Fleece seeker 58 Religious ascetic 108 Ish 17 Mandarin alternative?

21 By oneself 35 Leprechaun’s kin 60 Like white tigers, vis-a- 86 Dirt in beds 110 Stop pedaling downhill 18 Wolf (down) 22 Turing of math 88 Artoo-___ 36 Shapeless lump vis orange ones 111 Cake that may be flour26 Stampede 23 Assists 37 Folks in a video game 89 Common quality assur- 32 Just in case 61 Golden ___ (senior) less 24 “I wanna try!” series 62 Put $2 on 2, for example ance step in gum produc112 Convex belly button 34 En ___ (all together) 25 Brand of neatly arranged 39 Accumulated, as tion? (... re?)

64 Country by the Gulf of 38 Classic British sports cars 113 Speak one’s mind chocolates? (Theme hint: expenses 92 Suddenly emerged Oman 114 Didn’t just put in check 40 Toy with, puppy-style What follows la?)

41 Rolled-out grass 94 Beaverlike, so to speak 41 Inbox nuisance 66 Canadian capital 116 Tear to bits 27 Odafin Tutuola’s por44 Swinging, in softball 68 Electronically transmit- 95 Type of stove 42 Top predator in the ocean 121 Itinerary word trayer on “SVU” 47 Canadian leaders (Abbr.) ted figure of speech? (...

96 Was in charge of 43 NBA great Nowitzki

FUR BABIES found here.

Look here where you can actually meet and greet a new pet.

RED PAGES Made for where you live. Here!

349742-1

Call 407-656-2121 or visit OrangeObserver.com

of Addie LaRue’ by V.E. Schwab,” Lily said.

Lily would love to be somewhere in the Blue Ridge Mountains. She visited the mountains a couple of summers ago and said it was one of the most beautiful places she has ever been. In the meantime, she is looking forward to writing for Summer School Zone.

“I am excited to be a part of the Summer School Zone team because I get a chance to branch out and experience a different writing style that I don’t frequently use,” she said. “It’s an opportunity for me to grow in ways that I may not expect.”

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.

“UIXUM NF UMK XVUNHEUK TLCKI. CMKO UMK UIXUM SLHKF EILXOW, EVV UMK VNKF MERK UL IXO EOW MNWK.” NSK SXGK “T JPHDKPS UVX YMIU SPLPDYTKHLTVK T UHNP, HKS LUHL KV YHLLPD XUHL LUP AIVDP TA, HKZVKP IHK IVYP FHIC.” FTHKIH HKSDPPAIM Puzzle Two Clue: N equals V

LILY REDMAN WINDERMERE PREP

Puzzle One Clue H equals M

ASHA SHARMA WINDERMERE PREP

© 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

06-17-21

JUNE 17, 2021

SPORTS

HIGH

Ethan Brown has returned for his third season with the Winter Garden Squeeze. Page 12.

1

5

West Orange alumnus Doug Nikhazy had another big night for the Ole Miss baseball team in the Rebels’ 12-3 win over Arizona in the NCAA Tucson Super Regional Saturday, June 12. In the win, Nikhazy (12-2) tossed 10 strikeouts and gave up only two runs through 5.1 innings pitched to keep the Rebels’ season alive.

The Rebels’ year would end, however, the following day.

2

The Winter Garden Squeeze picked up a dominating 10-2 win over the DeLand Suns Saturday, June 12.

On the mound, Windermere native Noah Janney dominated the Suns, as he struck out seven and gave up only one run through four innings of work. At the plate, Dale Thomas led the way as he went 1-for-2 with a three-run homer, while accounting for one run.

3

The First Academy’s Isaac Sewell and head coach Scott Grove received some good news Friday, June 11. Following a 31-1 season during which the Royals won their first state title, Sewell was named the 2021 Florida Dairy Farmers Class 3A player of the year, while Grove was named 3A coach of the year.

Troy Herring

Power player After dominating in her sport, Special Olympian Michelle Feiner will compete against the nation’s best powerlifters in the 2022 Special Olympics U.S. Games in Orlando.

TROY HERRING SPORTS EDITOR

4

I

The Winter Garden Little League Tournament of Champions team won big in a 16-4 victory over Dr. Phillips Little League to claim the TOC Championship Thursday, June 10.

5

Olympia alumnus (2012) and current Cincinnati Reds outfielder Jesse Winker has turned the long ball into an art form after hitting three home runs in the Reds’ 8-7 win over the St. Louis Cardinals Sunday, June 6.

For Winker — in his fifth MLB season — it was the second time this season he had hit three home runs in a game. Against the Cardinals, Winker hit homers in the first and second innings before giving the Reds the lead — and eventual win — in the top of the ninth.

nside the friendly confines of CrossFit Winter Garden, Michelle Feiner gathers with a small group to run through their WODs — “Work Out of the Day,” for the laymen.

She and the rest in the Winter Garden-based gym are prepar-

ing for this weekend’s Bacon Beat Down — a huge CrossFit event in Daytona Beach — and she won’t lie to you, there are always some nerves that come with competing.

Though to be fair, for the longtime Special Olympian, if she wasn’t feeling that way, then something would be wrong.

Despite the feeling, there’s always

the ability to overcome, she said.

“I’m never confident in myself — that’s how I get — and then I get pumped up, and I start feeling better about myself, and then I just push through it and end up doing (well),” Feiner said.

“I’m always nervous when I go to competitions. For me, it’s more of conquering it within the time limit. … We have four rounds within a certain amount of time.

“At comp training, I’m kind of slow, because I’m kind of getting a feeling of it, but then once the SEE FEINER PAGE 12

Observer names AllArea baseball teams After winning its first state title, TFA gets big honors in this year’s All-Area baseball teams.

TROY HERRING SPORTS EDITOR

A year after the season was shortened by COVID-19, local high school teams took to the diamond and made the 2021 baseball season one to remember.

From big plays to big games to a first-time champion in The First Academy, the season offered us a lot in the way of entertainment and excitement. This week, we honor the best in baseball with the Observer All-Area teams.

PLAYER OF THE YEAR: Ben Barrett, TFA

COACH OF THE YEAR: Scott Grove, TFA

SEE ALL-AREA PAGE 12

Courtey photos

TFA’s Ben Barrett dominated for the Royals this year.

TFA head coach Scott Grove led the Royals to their first state title.

|

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, JUNE 17, 2021

SPONSORED BY MARK’S FLOORING AND SHANNON TILL/STATE FARM IN FOWLER GROVES

Ethan Brown

Now in his third year playing in the Florida Collegiate Summer League with the Winter Garden Squeeze, Ethan Brown is looking forward to sharpening his skills as he prepares to join the team at the University of South Florida this fall. A week into the season, Brown has pitched four innings with a 6.75 ERA.

When did you first get into baseball?

As far as I remember, my mom signed me up when I was able to play T-ball. I was a three-sport athlete my entire life. It was football, basketball, baseball — but coming up to my junior year, baseball just stuck. I guess it was just God-given at that point.

What has kept you in the sport for this long?

I would say it’s the fact that it’s one of the more interesting games for me. It’s a game that doesn’t end by a timer.

It’s a game that requires skill, whether it’s trying to hit the ball or hitting a spot when you’re on the mound. At the end of the day, the game doesn’t go by a timer. It ends by you having to compete.

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

I would say the talent level.

When it comes to the side work effort, when I was in Jersey, I would just throw one bullpen a week and then play center field or whatever it is.

But now that I’m in college, I’m throwing every day. I’m on a mound almost every day, making my pitches look better with the direction, spin rate and stuff like that. I would say knowing the more analytical game rather than just going out there and throwing balls out to the plate.

What’s your favorite pitch to throw and why?

I would say fastball. It

THE BASICS AGE: 21 TEAM: Winter Garden Squeeze SCHOOL: University of South Florida POSITION: Pitcher THROWS: Left-handed

doesn’t require movement; there’s no trickery there. I can just beat you with it — or you beat me, depending on what it is — but I just compete with it the most.

How long have you been with the Squeeze? What is your favorite part about the organization?

This is my third year. I would say the coaching staff. Terry Abbott — that guy has been by my side since the day he met me. He’s been getting me into schools, communicating with me, and every time a scout or any person of that nature comes to him, he always has something good to say about me.

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

My favorite part is strikeouts.

I’m a big strikeout guy. I like getting high numbers and strikeouts in my outings. It’s just fun for me. I would say the most challenging part is just as soon as you get that ball in your hands for the first pitch, all eyes are on you.

All the pressure is on you to decide how the mood of the game is going to go.

What do you hope to accomplish this season with the Squeeze?

I just want to keep playing until we can’t anymore — whether it’s winning a championship or getting knocked out in the playoffs.

I’m just looking to go out there every day, have fun with the guys and win ball games.

— DANIELLE HENDRIX

Braden Holcomb, Foundation, sophomore Stats: .431 average, 35 runs, 33 RBIs, 12 extra-base hits (eight home runs), 19 stolen bases Quick hit: Braden Holcomb led the Lions in every big category at the plate.

Jayden Colon, Legacy, junior Stats: .552 average, 32 runs, 32 RBIs, 13 extra-base hits, 26 stolen bases Quick hit: The only hitter to average over .500 on the season, Jayden Colon was among the best at the plate in the area.

Greg Pettay, TFA, junior Stats: .396 average, 34 runs, 33 RBIs, 11 extra-base hits (led team in batting), 17 stolen bases Quick hit: Greg Pettay was one of the few players to snag more than 30 runs and 30 RBIs. Will Ross, West Orange, junior Stats: 61 IP, 0.57 ERA, 6-2 in 12 appearances, 89 strikeouts Quick hit: One of the most dominant arms anywhere, Will Ross was the go-to guy for the Warriors.

Colby McClure, Legacy, junior Stats: .313 average, 31 runs, 18 RBIs, seven extra-base hits, 23 stolen bases; 31.2 IP, 3.25 ERA, 3-1, 56 strikeouts Quick hit: Colby McClure played a big role with his work at the plate and on the mound in helping the Eagles to a 16-8 season.

Max McClusky, West Orange, junior Stats: .301 average, 25 runs, 22 RBIs, 13 extra-base hits, 13 stolen bases Quick hit: Max McClusky was one of the Warriors’ most consistent forces at the plate, leading the team in multiple categories.

SECOND TEAM

Dallas Davis, Dr. Phillips, junior Stats: .329 average, 22 runs, 11 RBIs, 10 extra-base hits, 20 stolen bases Will Ford, Foundation, sophomore Stats: .333 average, 22 runs, 23 RBIs, six extra-base hits, 10 stolen bases Trent Kelly, TFA, sophomore Stats: .354 average, 30 runs, 23 RBIs Tyler Blanchard, Dr. Phillips, junior Stats: 46.1 IP, 0.91 ERA, 52 strikeouts Khadin Bastian, TFA, senior Stats: .389 average, 17 runs, 26 RBIs, eight extra-base hits Ricky Reeth, West Orange, senior

Jack Bellah, Windermere, senior Stats: 50 IP, 1.40 ERA, 5-2, 42 strikeouts Titan Kamaka, West Orange, junior Stats: .342 average, 25 runs, 18 RBIs, 11 extra-base hits Jadyn Fielder, Windermere Prep, junior Stats: .344 average, 20 runs, 11 RBIs, 11 extra-base hits

THIRD TEAM

Jaden Oyola, Legacy, junior Stats: .342 average, 19 runs, 26 RBIs, seven extra-base hits Fabian Romero, Olympia, junior Stats: .314 average, 18 runs, 12 RBIs Justin Lewis, Olympia, senior Stats: .303 average, 11 runs, 22 RBIs, nine extra-base hits Adonis Stewart, Legacy, junior Stats: .343 average, 17 runs, 18 RBIs; 38 IP, 3.68 ERA, 3-3, 47 strikeouts Riley Parker, TFA, junior Stats: .309 average, 10 runs, 33 RBIs, 15 extra-base hits AJ Goytia, West Orange, sophomore Stats: .312 average, 18 runs, 15 RBIs, five extra-base hits, 11 stolen bases Ryan Taylor, Windermere, senior Stats: 318 average, 18 runs, 15 RBIs, eight extra-base hits Julian Arana, Legacy, sophomore Stats: .386 average, 12 runs, 10 RBIs Nico Banez, Olympia, junior Stats: .362 average, 23 runs, six RBIs

Feiner going to U.S. Games CONTINUED FROM PAGE 11

competition comes, I’m like, full-blown, and I don’t stop,” she said. “I just say, ‘You know what, Michelle? Stay strong, you got this, push through it, and you’ll be fine.’”

The drive to simply outdo everyone — whether friend or foe — is going to come in handy after some big news Feiner received about two weeks ago.

Feiner — the girl who had been lifting for just two years — was invited to compete against the

Shannon Till, Agent

Minneola, FL 34715 (352) 394-0303

www.marksfloorsonline.com

Isaac Sewell, TFA, junior Stats: 87 IP, 1.13 ERA, 14-0, 112 strikeouts Quick hit: Isaac Sewell dominated on the mound for TFA and led the area in both record and strikeouts.

Shannon Till, Agent Fowler’s Grove 3279 Daniels Rd Winter Garden, FL 34787 Shannon Till, Agent Toll Free: 855-742-1591 www.shannontill.com Fowler’s Grove 3279 Daniels Rd

Minneola Location 301 E. Washington St. Unit F

Have our Mobile Showroom come to you!

Noah Sullivan, Dr. Phillips, senior Stats: .357, 14 runs, 23 RBIs, 17 walks, 11 doubles; 56.2 IP, 2.35 ERA, 5-2, 80 strikeouts Quick hit: As a dual threat for the Panthers, Noah Sullivan led the team in multiple categories.

Stats: .397 average, 24 runs, 21 RBIs, 10 extra-base hits

country’s best powerlifters in the 2022 Special Olympics U.S. A. Games in Orlando next year.

DON’T TELL HER SHE CAN’T

When Feiner first walked through the doors of CrossFit Winter Garden — affectionately known as the Wolf’s Den — two years ago, she had no clue what to expect.

She could barely lift anything, and doing squats with the bar on her shoulders seemed impossible. Feiner recalled the frustration from her inability to do

the exercise was so infuriating that she had a meltdown. She had to step outside; she felt like a failure.

But what a difference just a couple of years can make.

As a powerlifter, Feiner can deadlift 225 pounds, and she hits 100 to 105 pounds in the back squat and 100 in the bench press.

Although the improvement with weights has been impressive — as well as the weight loss SEE PAGE 13

BR DENTAL BR DENTAL

Now Offering Now Offering ✳✳✳ Dental Dental Implants Dentistry ✳ Sedation Dent Dental Implants Pain Free Injections DentalImplants Implants ✳✳✳✳Sedation Sedation Dentistry Dental Implants Sedation Dentistry Now Offering Dental Implants Dentistry ✳✳ Clear ✳✳Cosmetic ✳✳✳Pain Clear Free Injections Braces ✳ Pain Free In Sedation Dentisty Accepting New Patients ✳Sedation Dental Implants ✳ Sedation Dentis Cosmetic ClearBraces Braces Pain Free Injections ✳✳Cosmetic Cosmetic Clear Braces Pain Free Injections

Shannon Till, Shannon Agent Till, Agent We’re allWe’re in thisalltogether. in this together.

Fowler’s Grove Fowler’s 3279 Grove Daniels 3279 Rd Daniels Rd ® ® State hasFarm a long has tradition a long tradition Winter Garden, Winter FL Garden, 34787 FL 34787State Farm Toll Free: 855-742-1591 Toll Free: 855-742-1591 of being there. of being That’s there. oneThat’s reasonone reason www.shannontill.com www.shannontill.com

358220-1

Follow us on

FIRST TEAM

Ben Barrett, TFA, junior Stats: .333 average, 27 runs, 27 RBIs, eight extra-base hits; 60.2 IP, 1.62 ERA, 10-1, 101 strikeouts Quick hit: The Observer’s Player of the Year did everything for the Royals, and his seven innings of shutout baseball handed the Royals their first state title.

BR DENTAL DENTAL Friends.

Friends.

The Choice for a Beautiful Smile BRBR DENTAL BR DENTAL 407-905-9965 407-905-9965 Community.

Community.

407-905-9965 Family.

407-905-9965 BR DENTAL Family.

407-905-9965 www.drbrianramski.com www.drbrianramski.com 407-905-9965 www.drbrianramski.com Friends. www.drbrianramski.com Friends. www.drbrianramski.com www.drbrianramski.com 407-905-9965 Community.

Now Offering Now Offering Now Offering Community.

Now Offering www.drbrianramski.com

* Carpet * Tile * Hardwood * Vinyl * Laminate Winter Garden Location

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 11

Family.

Family.

Athlete of the Week Sponsored by...

Athlete of the Week sponsored by:

731 S. Dillard St. Unit 101/103 Winter Garden, FL 34787 (407) 410-8998

All-Area baseball teams

Garden, FL 34787 Fowler Groves Winter Toll Free: 855-742-1591 www.shannontill.com Winter Garden, FL 34787 407-656-4000 www.shannontill.com Hablamos Español 1211007

1211007

1211007

why proud why I’m to support proud toWest support West We’re allI’m in this together.

Orange county.. county..

State Farm has aOrange long tradition ® . State®.

Getall to in a That’s better Getone totogether.

State a better We’re this of being there. reason ®

why I’m proud to support West State Farm has a long tradition Orange county.. ofGet being there.

That’s one reason . to a better State why I’m proud to support West Orange county..

Get to a better State . ®

®

®

State Farm, Bloomington, State Farm, Bloomington, IL IL State Farm, Bloomington, IL

✳ Cosmetic Clear Braces ✳Sedation Pain Free Injections ✳ Accepting Patients ✳Dentistry Accepting New Patients ✳ Cosmetic Clear Braces ✳ Pain Free Inje Accepting New Patients Serving West Orange County for 18 years ✳ Dental Implants ✳New ✳✳ Accepting New Patients ✳ Accepting New Patients ✳ Accepting New Patients ✳ Cosmetic Clear Braces Pain Free Injections 213 S Dillard St.,St., Suite 140 213 St., Suite 140 213 Dillard Suite 140✳S Dillard 213 SS Dillard St., Suite 140 Garden, FLFL 34787 Winter Garden, FL 34787 ✳ Accepting New Patients Winter Garden, 34787 213Winter S Dillard St., Suite 140 213 S Dillard St., Suite 140 Winter Garden, FL 34787

Office Hours: Mon: 8-4 OfficeGarden, Hours: Mon: 8-4 Office Hours: Mon: 8-4 Winter Garden, FL 34787 Winter FL 34787 Office Hours: Mon: 8-4 213 S Dillard St., Suite 140 Tues-Thurs: 8-12 & 1-5 Tues-Thurs: 8-12 & 1-5 Tues-Thurs: 8-12 & 1-5 Office Hours: Mon: 8-4 Office Hours: Mon: 8-4 Tues-Thurs: 8-12 & 1-5 Winter Garden, FL1-5 34787 Fri: 7-1 Fri: 7-1for Your Fri: 7-1 Tues-Thurs: 8-12 & Tues-Thurs: 8-12 &Appointment!

1-5 Call Today Call Today for Your Appoi Call Today for for Your YourAppointment!

Fri: 7-1 Call Today Appointment!

Office 8-4 Fri: 7-1 Hours: Mon: Fri: 7-1 Call Today for Your Appointment!

Call Today for Your Appoint Tues-Thurs: 8-12 & 1-5 Fri: 7-1 Call Today for Your Appointment!

310499-1 310499-1 358193-1 310499-1 310499-1 310499-1

SPORTS SPOTLIGHT

OBSERVER

358239-1

12

OBSERVER

Winter Garden entrepreneur Lynn McClung, 73, died June 12, 2021, at Health Central Hospital in Ocoee. Mr. McClung was born in Altha, Florida, on Nov. 12, 1947.

He was an executive at J.C. Penney for 25 years before launching his own boutique stores with his wife, Brenda.

Mr. McClung served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. He had a love for merchandising, gardening and spending time with his friends and family.

He is survived by Brenda; his daughter, Jennifer; and his granddaughter, Bridgette.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 12

of 50 pounds and getting into shape — the biggest change owner and coach Lee Lovette has seen has been Feiner’s mental toughness.

“She, in particular, has been told she can’t do things for so long in her life — ‘You can’t do this,’ ‘You can’t do that,’ ‘You’re a girl,’ or ‘You’re in Special Olympics,’” Lovette said. “She has always been told she can’t, but when she comes through my doors, everything is always, ‘I can.’”

Feiner agrees. Coming into CrossFit, she had low self-confidence, but through her friends at CFWG, she said she is in a better headspace now.

“It’s kind of helped my personality change — be more confident in myself, be more happy, feel better about myself and my weight,” Feiner said. “It’s kind of helped me learn to make friends. … I’ve met a lot of people who just believe in me.”

TAKING ON THE BEST

To say her selection to the U.S. Games was a shock is an understatement.

Feiner knew how the system worked — the process requires an athlete to constantly win competitions, while also having luck as athletes have their names drawn from a hat — but she never expected to receive the news.

Sitting with her mom at the gym a few Mondays ago, Feiner stared into the computer screen in front of her as a Zoom conference was underway. Originally, Feiner thought she was in some kind of

trouble, but then — out of the blue — she was named.

“I was like, ‘What?’” Feiner said. “I didn’t think I could qualify. … I’ve never been to one. It was just really shocking but exciting.”

Lovette said Feiner’s success has come from a variety of reasons — perhaps none bigger than a combination of self-discipline and following the process placed in front of her.

“We’ve talked about nutrition, we’ve talked about lifting, we’ve talked about the importance of technique and things like that, and Michelle is a perfect example of that,” Lovette said. “She has watched what she ate; she’s lost 50 pounds since she has come to me. She’s gone down five or six weight classes, and her (lift) weight has gone up. … She’s losing weight and getting stronger, which just shows not only does the programming and the process work, but she is trusting the process.”

With the games being a year away, Feiner has time to get ready, but Lovette said they would be sticking to their same workout cycles to get prepared.

Feiner hopes to continue to lose weight and get stronger and healthier in the meantime, but she is hoping to make the most out of her experience come time to compete in the (U.S.) Games.

“I’m hoping to make more new friends … I’m hoping to walk out of there with a gold medal to represent the Wolf’s Den,” Feiner said. “I want to represent everyone in this gym, and I want to make it a positive experience that I’ll never forget.”

13

We’ll take the first step with you

Direct Cremation

$750

plus container 921 S. US Hwy 27, Minneola, FL One block north of Citrus Tower 352-394-8228 I CremationChoicesfl.com

358221-1

LYNN MCCLUNG DIED JUNE 12, 2021.

Ronald C. Peavy Sr., 70, of the Lake Nicatoon area in Umatilla, Florida, passed away May 24, 2021. Ron was a lifelong resident of Central Florida. As a result of his generous spirit and loving personality, he was loved by many.

Ron spent his working years as an exterminator, a truck driver and a plant merchandizer. He was a Christian, and he liked watching FBCU on television every Sunday.

He enjoyed living in the wilderness, hunting, fishing, watching football (Gators) and baseball (Tampa Bay Rays) live and on TV, riding in his Jeep and keeping up with racing, whether it was NASCAR or his favorite Mini Sprint racer, #11 Cory Spencer.

Ron was predeceased by his parents, Carl and Marion Peavy, and his brother-in-law, Stephen Spinaw.

He is survived by his wife, Ouida (Umatilla, Florida); daughter, Lisa (Paul) Vees (Arabi, Georgia); son, Ronald C. Peavy II (Old Town, Florida); sisters, Nancy Spencer (Orange City, Florida) and Wanda (David) Phillips (Longwood, Florida); brother, Byron (Catherine) Peavy (Osteen, Florida); stepsons, Brad Russell, Brian Russell and David Hughes (Winter Garden, Florida); grandchildren, Sarah

Rushing, Seth Hughes, Wyatt Peavy and Kayla Peavy, along with many other extended family members. (Full obituary at beyersfuneralhome.com.)

A Celebration of Life will be held at 3 p.m. Saturday, July 10, 2021, at Cornerstone Community Church in Ocoee, Florida. The Lake Nicatoon gathering for local friends and family will start at 11 a.m.

Saturday, July 17, 2021. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Avian Reconditioning Center in Apopka, Florida, or Save the Manatee Club in Maitland, Florida.

Arrangements entrusted to Beyers Funeral Home of Umatilla.

Online condolences may be made at beyersfuneralhome.com.

THURSDAY, JUNE 17, 2021

Let us tell the story

of your life

We Proudly Offer Traditional Burial and Cremation Services Prearranged Funeral Services

Baldwin Fairchld Funeral Home Winter Garden

BaldwinFairchild.com I 407-656-2233 428 E. Plant St, Winter Garden, FL 34787

Winter Garden’s ONLY family owned funeral home.

Direct Cremation for

895

Exceptional - Not Expensive

$

(407) 614-8350 1132 E. Plant Street Winter Garden, FL 34787 www.winteroakfuneralhome.com

Including the alternative container. Call for details.

LIC #F080822

358210-1

RONALD C. PEAVY SR. DIED MAY 24, 2021.

|

WE ARE HERE TO SERVE YOU Collison Carey Hand Funeral Home is a proud fixture of Windermere and West Orange County. We have built our homes and reputations here.

We are here for you.

Robert Bittle

Funeral Director In Charge

We make it personal.®

407-877-6700

1148 E. Plant St. Winter Garden, Fl careyhand.com 5.092”x4” Collison_Rob’19

Full service funeral provider with onsite crematory.

Family Owned & Operated FRANK SCARLATA

All inclusive direct cremation only $895 Burial starting at $2,295

358189-1

WEST ORANGE OBITUARIES

OrangeObserver.com

Pre-Planner

TODD DEGUSIPE Director/Owner

358197-1

Director/Manager

COLLEEN GILLIS

“Because You Care” (407) 695-CARE (2273)

www.DeGusipeFuneralHome.com

MAITLAND 9001 N. Orlando Ave Maitland, FL 32771

SANFORD 905 Laurel Ave. Sanford, FL 32771

OCOEE 1400 Matthew Paris Blvd Ocoee, FL 34761

UNIONTOWN 65 N. Gallitan Ave Uniontown, PA 15401

RED PAGES INFORMATION & RATES: 407-656-2121

Furnishings

DEADLINES: Classifieds - Monday at 10AM

Repurpose, Restore, Rebuild Furniture, Families and Lives

Service Directory - Friday at 10AM • PAYMENT: Cash, Check or Credit Card Observer Media Group reserves the right to classify and edit copy, or to reject or cancel an advertisement at any time. Corrections after first insertion only. *All ads are subject to the approval of the Publisher. *It is the responsibility of the party placing any ad for publication in an Observer Media Group publication to meet all applicable legal requirements in connection with the ad such as compliance with towncodes in first obtaining an occupational license for business, permitted home occupation, or residential rental property.

peekers’ place

scan for coupons

You’re only cheating yourself.

HOURS

Moving/Estate Sale Large amount of Nascar collectables, antique dining set, couch, vintage glassware, tools and various other household items.

Friday 6/18 and Saturday 6/19 from 8:00 to 4:00 17348 Cork Street Winter Garden FL 34787 cj6/17

13178 W Winte

13178 W. Colonial Dr. Winter Garden

GARAGE SALE

SCRAP BATTERIES 407-656-3495

13178 W. Colonial Dr. Winter Garden

NOW PURCHASING

SCRAP BATTERIES BUY STUFF HERE! Call 407-656-2121 407-656-3495

Accounting

©2021 NEA, Inc.

FAST & EASY CERTIFICATION

Call now for your FREE pre-evaluation by phone

FREE

407-755-0012

DELIVERY

1801 E. Colonial Dr Orlando, FL 32803

delivered directly to your home or business You now get the dry flower to

www.CMMDR.COM

SMOKE!

GARAGE

We provide Medical Marijuana in a variety of forms such as tinctures, pills, pain patches, vapes, concentrates, buds, vape shatter pills, dry flower & much more!

Auto Service

TFN

356846

358253

1045 S. Vineland Rd. • Winter Garden • New and Used Tires • Alignment • Complete Auto Repair • A/C Serv. & More

407-656-1817

STRESS

FREE

Financing See store for details

BRAKE PAD SALE

“Your Complete Service Center” 10 West Story Rd., Winter Garden, FL 34787 Richard Hudson • Reggie Hudson

179.95

Mercedes C-Class

BMW 5 Series

199.95

Mercedes E-Class

$

358255

358250

Phone 407-656-6646

BMW 3 Series

$

REG# MV-01095

TFN

407-65

NOW PURCHASING

RedPages@OrangeObserver.com

TRAYWICK'S

TFN

SCRAP B

CALL 407-656-2121

Auto Service

• Bridgestone • Michelin • Toyo • BFG Tires

NOW PU

GET YOUR MEDICAL MARIJUANA CARD HERE

CALL 407-656-2121

Auto Service

Merchandise Wanted

Garage/ Moving/ Estate Sales

SELL MORE STUFF AT YOUR NEXT

GARAGE SALE

Call: 407-656-2121 Online: orangeobserver.com

Advertise as low as $15.00 per week!

MON - THURS 10AM - 4PM FRI & SAT 10AM - 6PM

This week’s Sudoku answers

©2021 Universal Uclick

This week’s Crossword answers

Puzzle Two Solution: “I learned how much determination I have, and that no matter what the score is, anyone can come back.”

Bianca Andreescu

15% DISCOUNT FOR 4-WEEK RUN

358245

Puzzle One Solution:

This week’s “Truth is the ultimate power. When the Celebrity Cipher truth comes around, all the lies have to run and hide.”

Ice Cube answers

First 15 words .................. $ 15.00 per week Each add’l word ........25¢

SELL YOUR STUFF FAST!

Visit us at the Tri City Center 1027 S. Dillard St. Off W. Colonial Dr

359257

redpages@orangeobserver.com • orangeobserver.com/redpages

RED PAGES AD RATES

358243 349888

THURSDAY, JUNE 17, 2021

358242

Made for where you live. Here!

179.95

$

199.95

$

Full Synthetic Oil Service ONLY

89.95

$

Includes up to 7 quarts Service includes: Front or Rear Pads, Parts and Labor. of Full Synthetic Oil. Tax and recycling fees are extra. Not valid with any other offers. Expires 6/30/21

CALL 407-656-2121

OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

Auto Service

Realtors

|

THURSDAY, JUNE 17, 2021

Roofing

Let us walk you through the best options to fit your needs and once you feel comfortable with your choice, we’ll handle the complete installation.

356701

• Estate Sales • Consignment • Downsizing • • Clean-Outs (Storage Units & Hoarder Homes) • • Buy-Outs • 102 W. McKey Street Historic Downtown Ocoee www.LetItGoLifestyle.com (407) 797-3534

RED PAGES

Personal Property Liquidation Services

BOOST YOUR BUSINESS

358914

356537

358249

Your roof is your home’s main defense against the elements.

RESIDENTIAL ROOFING NEW ROOF INSTALLATION & REPLACEMENT COMMERCIAL ROOFING

Professional Services

15

ROOF REPAIR & MAINTENANCE

(407) 702-1144

Showcase your products or services each week in the Red Pages.

www. namarroofing.com info@NamarRoofing.com

CALL 407-656-2121

Monday-Friday Saturday-Sunday

Roofing TFN

The oldest active roofing license in Central Florida!

358252

FIRE TECH

8am-5pm Closed

EXTINGUISHER

SERVICE

Leading Central Florida

Ocoee, FL

Roofing Contractor TFN

www.Firetechextinguisher.com

GROW YOUR BUSINESS WITH THE RED PAGES

RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL VETERAN OWNED

358256

Cell 407-466-4738 Tel 407-654-2395 Fax 407-654-2986

358251

Danny Motes

RE-ROOF, NEW CONSTRUCTION AND REPAIRS SHINGLES • TILE • METAL • FLAT ROOFS DURO-LAST www.masterroofingfl.com

UPGRADES & REPAIRS

office: 407-521-8896 master.roof@yahoo.com state license # CCC021396

YOUR HOME

found here.

Find a place where you can visit listings, not just imagine them.

RED PAGES Made for where you live. Here!

Call 407-656-2121 or visit OrangeObserver.com

358867

Call to reserve your ad space: 407-656-2121 OrangeObserver.com/RedPages

VIRUS & SPYWARE WinterREMOVAL Garden’s Premier Roofing Company Since 1978 Serving All of West Orange County DATA & PASSWORD Fully Licensed and Insured Roof Repairs and Replacement RECOVERY 407-656-8920 www.WestOrangeRoofing.com WIRELESS & WIRED NETWORKING

FREE ESTIMATES

16

OBSERVER

it’s Time to $ave

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, JUNE 17, 2021

|

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THESE DEALS!

ate brNEW leON SAVECe NOW $50 OFF INTERIOR er DOORS m m Su Any 1/2 Leaded Glass

$100 OFF

Any Full Leaded Glass

25-40% 25-40% OF F OFF *

We have a Large Selection

FInR-HEomEe

tes Estima

Fall i

Slabs: Pantry, Home RETRACTABLE of Grown, Assorted Styles, * SCREEN DOORS WheatINTERIOR Frosted, Reed Glass, DOORS IN STOCK

OFF INTERIOR DOORS

Laundry

NOW AVAILABLE!!

BAPTIST

it’s Tim

We have a large selection of slabs: Pantry, Homegrown, Assorted Styles, Wheat Frosted, Reedglass, Laundry

IN STOCK TAKE

CHURCH OF GOD

ADVANTAG

First Baptist Church Ocoee Church of God RS Thomas OdomANY DBL DOOR, SWAP Pastor Tim GrosshansMIRRO Pastor 125 E. Plant St, Winter Garden 1105 N. Lakewood Ave.,Ocoee OUT or PRE-HUNG UNIT (407) 656-2352 (407) 656-8011 After Mirror Wrap Sundays: 8:30Before AMMirror Traditional Wrap EPISCOPAL 9:45 AM Bible Study Church of the Messiah 11 AM Contemporary 241 N. Main St., Winter Garden Wednesdays: 6 PM Awana Any Full Services: 8, 9:30, & 11 AM, Leaded Glass 2nd Campus: 7 PM Any Full First Baptists 10 Church F OR % OFwww.ChurchoftheMessiah.com Leaded Glass Any 1/2 @ Horizon West FREE F OF % 15 Leaded Glass METHODIST Any 1/2 In-Home 15304 Tilden Road, tes Estima 2 OR MORE...

Leaded Glass First United Methodist Winter Garden TE Church ANY DBL DOOR, SWAP OUT Sundays: 9:45MIR AM All RO Ages R MA RS IRERRO 125 N. Lakeview Ave., M or PRE-HUNG UNIT S www.FBCWG.org OW SH $ Winter Garden After Mirror Wrap Before Mirror Wrap (407) 656-1135 MIRRORS Any Sliding Shower Door Starke Lake Baptist Church Services: 9 AM Contemporary Pritchard LAKE BAPTIST Advertise your Services or Events NGLICAN Pastor Jeff STARKE METHODIST Any Clear Swinging After Shower $Traditional NON-DENOMINATIONAL 11:15 AMMETHODIST Mirror Wrap CHURCH Anythis Sliding Shower Door FIRST UNITED PURPOSE CHURCH OLANDO PO Box 520 611 W Ave., on page weekly.

GLICAN COMMUNITY Befor e Mirro r Door over 26 sq ft Wrap PO Box 520, 611 W Ave, Ocoee CHURCH 13640 W. Colonial Dr., Ste 110, Viewable on YouTube ing LLOWSHIP CHURCH Any Clear Swing Ocoee Pastor Jeff Pritchard 125 N. Lakeview Ave Winter Garden Winter Garden tor The Rev. Canon Tim Trombitas s/f9:30AM, 10% OFF up to 25 OR appears weekly in the (407) 656-2351 Door r Showe (407) 656-2351 Service Times 9:00 AM and 11:15 AM 407-654-9661 • Prayer This page NON-DENOMINATIONAL 6 East Plant St, Winter Garden FREE www.starkelakebaptist.org Phone – 407-656-1135 Fellowship 9:45AM, Service 10:05 AM 15% OFF www.StarkeLakeBaptist.org NDAY SERVICE 10:00 AM In-Hom West Orange Times & Observer and $ Purpose Church Orlando Web: fumcwg.org Any Clear Swinging Shower DO E 2 OR MOREonline ... at OrangeObserver.com. d us at: Theacf.net stimatee Can OofRGlass CHURCH OF GOD s S Cleaner 13640 W Colonial Dr. Ste 110, ing Swing Door up to 25 sq ft Clear Any OCOEE CHURCH OF GOD MIRROR MATE with Any Shower Purchase Victory Baptist Church S R UNITED CHURCH OF E APTIST SHOW CHRIST Winter Garden Pastor Thomas Odom 1 0 Shower Door over 26 s/f % O FF OR & Christian Academy To advertise in the 1105 N. Lakewood Avenue, Ocoee ULAH BAPTIST $ Church Directory (407) 654-9661 WINDERMERE UNION CHURCH 50 OFF 1122 Bichara Blvd, Lady Lake, 407-656-8011 1 or Casey Butner 1601 A.D. Mims Rd,Ocoee 5 % hase Purc O er FRE call 407-656-2121 or email FFLF y Show w/An Park Ridge-Gotha Rd. ner Clea sService: Glas Sunday 10:05 AM *FREE Can of10710 Any Sliding Shower Door Beulah Rd, Winter Garden In-H o 2 Windermere, FL 34786 (407) 656-3097 OR M (352) 751-0833 OR AdvertiseNow@OrangeObserver.com E...

EPISCOPAL -656-3342 | BeulahBaptistWG.org SundayWorship Brazilian Service: 7 PM Estima 407-876-2112 times: $ Sunday: 11CHURCH AM & PM OF 6 THE MESSIAH NDAY BIBLE STUDY 9:30AM M 50 OFF IR ROR MATE www.entrypointbyperrys.com 9:00am Adult SundayService: School Saturday 6 PM 241 N.7 Main, Winter Garden NDAY SERVICEWednesday: 11:00AM Any Clear Swinging Shower PM 10:00am Worship Services: 8, 9:30, & 11am, 7pm www.purposechurchorlando.org DNESDAY SERVICE 6:00PM *Not good with sales, prior orders, promos Door uportocloseouts 25 s/f already marked down. Lic. # SCC131151683 www.windermereunion.org www.VBCOCOEE.com

$100

$100 OFF OFF

$50

358760-1

DOORS

$50 OFF OFF

CHURCH DIRECTORY 50 OFF

50 OFF

ST BAPTIST CHURCH E Plant St., Winter Garden -656-2352 NDAYS 8:30 am Traditional 5 am Bible Study 00 am Contemporary DNESDAYS - 6pm - Awana or Tim Grosshans w.fbcwg.org Campus: UNDATION WORSHIP NDAYS 9:45 am - All Ages ndation Academy High School 04 Tilden Rd., Winter Garden w.FoundationWorship.com -730-1867

www.churchofthemessiah.com

$100 OFF

$50 OFF

FREE

316889-1

100 OFF

$50 OFF

Perry’s Decorative Glass

50

$

$ 100 OFF 1122 Bichara Blvd, Next to Publix Any Clear Swinging Shower S ER W O SH Door over 26 s/f on Route 441/27 *FREE Can of Glass Cleaner w/Any Shower Purchase 883 www.EntryPointbyPerrys.com • 751-0 151683

MIKE YOAKUM

*Not good with sales, prior orders, promos or closeouts already

PASTOR

marked down. Lic. #SCC131

Any Sli

50

$

Any Cle Shower

Perry’s Decorative Glass on Route 441/27

10

$

SHOWERS 1122 Bichara Blvd, Next to Publix

P: 407.656.1520 C: 407.758.3570 MYOAKUM407@AOL.COM

Any Cle Shower

*FREE Can of Glass Cleane

www.EntryPointbyPerrys.com • 751-0883 *Not good with sales, prior orders, promos or closeouts already marked down. Lic. #SCC131151683

Matthew’s Hope Chest Creations

ORDER YOUR CUSTOMInMADE Furniture, 2020, Matthew's Hope experienced a 300% increase• Custom in the number of Farm Tables, Barn Doors, and More CHRISTMAS weekly visits with those finding themselves homeless in• our community.

Repaired, Refinished and GIFTS NOW! Repurposed Wood Furniture

orders, promos or close

Hand Sanitizers: 9,930 Nursing/Medical Care: 1,300 Prepared Foods: 54,400 Nonperishable Foods:169,000 lbs.

Plus, we provided weekly laundry service, showers, assistance with food stamps, Florida ID's, COVID Testing, and more.

XNSP18213

350501-1

Here is a brief Snapshot of what that looked like.

Check out the custom • Gently Used Furniture and New & Used made silent auction items Items Personal Hygiene Household Items: 139,300 Total Weekly Visits: 13,630 Follow us at https://www.facebook.com/groups/MatthewsHopeChest/ that will be available at Clothing Items Distributed: 50,600 New First Time Guests: 639 the Garden Party on Visit our Workshop Location at 611 Business Park Blvd. #101, Winter Garden Protective Masks: 53,900 November 9!!

407.905.9500 • 8am-4pm Mon - Fri • 8am-3pm Saturday

Perry’s De

1122 Bichara B on Rou www.EntryPoin *Not good with sales, prior

LV14252

1333 EAST CROWN POINT RD. OCOEE, FL 34761

LOCAL NEWS FOUND HERE in the Big Red Box

TEXT

“MHM” TO 4 1 4 4 4 This is a secure site for giving

Each week, the Observer is full of local news you can’t find anywhere else. It’s always about You. Your Neighbors.

Your Neighborhood.

351376-1

TO DONATE

Help Us. Help Them. 611 Business Park Blvd #101, Winter Garden, FL 34787 (407) 905-9500 I MatthewsHopeMinistries.org Help Themselves.

CALL (407) 656-2121 or email AdvertiseNow@orangeobserver.com

359251-1

WANT TO SEE YOUR LISTING HERE?

Pick up your FREE copy every Thursday. Find a big red box near you, visit www.orangeobserver.com/ rack-locations

. . . t i a W But

S ’ E R THE !

E R MO

XNLV18913

Flip the page for more sales and specials!

Visit Downtown Winter Garden from Memorial Day through Fourth of July for a slice of patriotic small town charm.

The festive decorations are better than apple pie!

4th of JULY WEEKEND FUN Saturday, July 3 8am–1pm

Friday, July 2 7–9pm

Vendor Booth Patriotic Contest Life Size Family Game Zone Live Music Summer Produce & BBQ Essentials

Live Music CENTENNIAL PLAZA • 101 W PLANT ST

All American Kids

DOWNTOWN PAVILION • 104 S LAKEVIEW AVE

Sunday, July 4 Lineup at 9:45am Parade at 10am

Sunday, July 4 Starting at 9:15pm Fireworks Display on Lake Apopka

Entertainment, Activities, and Fun! WINTER GARDEN MASONIC LODGE • 230 BAY STREET

NEWTON PARK ON LAKE APOPKA • 29 W GARDEN AVE

DOWNTOWNWG.COM