06.24.21 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. 25

YOUR TOWN TAYLOR RICH TO PERFORM

Singer, songwriter and guitarist Taylor Rich is scheduled to perform at the Healthy West Orange Arts and Heritage Center at the Town of Oakland, 126 W. Petris Ave. She will play from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friday, June 25, on the porch of the town’s new center.

In partnership with the HAPCO Music Foundation, the songstress will be singing both original songs and covers outside while visitors can step inside and enjoy the new gallery of history and art.

Guests can relax on the porch or at picnic tables and benches or take their own lawn chairs.

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THURSDAY, JUNE 14, 2021

Big air, don’t care The King of Darkness competition returned to Horizon West. SEE 15.

Paws-itive reinforcement Winter Garden resident and Disney Tri-Circle-D Ranch Manager Robin Walker enjoys sharing her experience as a volunteer puppy-raiser for Canine Companions for Independence.

STORY ON PAGE 4.

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Danielle Hendrix

Winter Garden resident Robin Walker is raising 5-month-old Walt for Canine Companions for Independence.

Rejoice, fireworks fans! Disney’s nightly shows are returning!

SEE PAGE 5.

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SERVICE-ORIENTED Stay safe on the water this summer Following the death of Jeffery Barksdale, 17, on Lake Down, remind your loved ones of these watersafety tips. SEE PAGE 2.

Four girls from the Lake Cove Pointe community organized a car wash to raise money for Matthew’s Hope.

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THURSDAY, JUNE 24, 2021

Recent death a sobering reminder of need for water safety measures Jeffery Barksdale, 17, died June 10 while jet-skiing on Lake Down in Windermere.

AMY QUESINBERRY COMMUNITY EDITOR

It’s summertime, and in Florida, that means plenty of outdoor activities, including boat outings, beach trips and pool parties. But with the fun comes a necessity for safety.

Central Florida has its share of lakes, and the Windermere area offers an abundance of open waters.

Windermere’s Lake Down made headlines earlier this month when 17-year-old Jeffery Barksdale and a cousin, 20-year-old C.J. Walker, fell off a jet ski around 8:30 p.m.

June 10.

Walker,

a basketball player at the University of Central Florida, was rescued and taken to a nearby hospital. Divers with the Orange County Sheriff’s Office Marine Unit found Barksdale’s body the following afternoon.

“It is a tragedy that, unfortunately, could have been avoided,” Windermere Town Manager Robert Smith said. “Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family.”

Lake Down is one of 13 lakes in the Butler Chain of Lakes. Five are located in the town of Windermere: lakes Butler, Down, Bessie and Crescent, and Wauseon Bay. The town operates two private boat ramps. One at Fernwood Park, at Seventh Avenue and Forest Street, gives access to Lake Butler. The second is locatTO

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ed at Lake Bessie Park, at Ninth Avenue and Lake Bessie, which provides access to the landlocked Lake Bessie.

One public ramp with access to Lake Down is located on Conroy Windermere Road and is operated

by Orange County. It has access to Lake Down.

Smith said a common misconception is that the town of Windermere has jurisdiction of the lakes.

“The town only has jurisdiction to the normal high-water elevation,” he said. “The county and state have actual jurisdiction on the lakes.”

The Orange County Sheriff’s Office provides a boater’s guide on its website, ocso.com. It is Florida law that anyone born after Jan. 1, 1988, is required to take a state CH

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WATER SAFETY n Learn to swim. The best thing anyone can do to stay safe in and around the water is to learn to swim. Always swim with a buddy. n Watch out for the dangerous “toos” — too tired, too cold, too far from safety, too much sun, too much strenuous activity. n Set water safety rules for the whole family based on swimming abilities (for example, inexperienced swimmers should stay in water less than chest deep). n Be knowledgeable of the water environment you are in and its potential hazards, such

boating course before operating one.

Neither the town of Windermere or the OCSO offer boating safety courses, but several courses are available by the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary; the U.S. Power Squadrons, a national nonprofit boating organization; and state boating agencies, including the STUM

as deep and shallow areas, currents, depth changes, obstructions, and where the entry and exit points are located. n Pay attention to local weather conditions and forecasts. Stop swimming at the first indication of bad weather. n Use a feet-first entry. n Enter headfirst only when the area is clearly marked for diving and has no obstructions. n Do not mix alcohol with swimming, diving or boating. Alcohol impairs your judgment, balance and coordination; affects your swimming and diving skills; and reduces your body’s ability to stay warm.

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

Call (800) 336-BOAT for information on courses, which are offered both in the classroom and online.

The OCSO Marine Unit has been in place for more than 30 years, with five deputies.

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THURSDAY, JUNE 24, 2021

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Ocoee approves new ordinances, annexations The approvals include the sale of city-owned property at 2 N. Bluford Ave. Leaders say this is a critical piece of Ocoee’s downtown redevelopment.

TROY HERRING

Danielle Hendrix

After raising more than $1,000 through a two-day car wash, the four girls were proud to present the check to Matthew’s Hope. From left: Libby Kohmetscher (on FaceTime), Sedona Vega, Matthew’s Hope founder Scott Billue, Skyla Vega and Gianna Senges.

GIVING

SPIRIT With support from their Lake Cove Pointe community, four young Winter Garden residents raised more than $1,000 for Matthew’s Hope through a two-day car wash.

DANIELLE HENDRIX ASSOCIATE EDITOR

W

hen summertime hits, many children will set up shop on their block with a lemonade stand for some extra pocket money.

Four young Winter Garden residents recently came up with another idea to generate some cash — but for a cause much bigger.

Sedona Vega and Gianna Senges, 11; Libby Kohmetscher, 9; and Skyla Vega, 8, were the masterminds behind the Sunny Car Wash fundraiser for Matthew’s Hope.

The four girls hosted the car wash over two days in their neighborhood, Lake Cove Pointe. The idea was to raise money to provide quarters to Matthew’s Hope for the “laundry ladies” to use, and their goal was $100 with a stretch goal of $150 if they could do a good job.

And the Lake Cove Pointe community showed up.

“It was kind of my idea for the car wash, but then we didn’t know really what it was gong to be,” Sedona said. “I came up with the idea to kind of maybe do a little car wash, make $100 for a charity. We didn’t know what charity at the time, but we were kind of passionate about Matthew’s Hope.”

“We really want to help the homeless, and now that we see more people being pushed out (on) the streets because all the homeless camps are being shut down,

we kind of want to help them a little bit more to grow their space and spots to live,” Skyla added.

The two sisters were joined by their friends, Gianna and Libby, who wanted to help however they could. The girls sent out polls to neighbors, who filled in a 30- to 45-minute time slot to have the girls wash their cars. In the end, they had 21 cars to wash.

“I wanted to get involved because it’s a big deal being homeless, and if we can help a bit more, it just makes your heart feel better,” Gianna said. “I thought, ‘Well, that’s a lot of people that want to help the community,’ and that made me feel happy that people want to actually help.”

Over two days, the girls went from driveway to driveway — accompanied by their golf cart full of car-washing supplies. Washing 21 cars was hard work, and the girls were sweaty and tired.

“I wanted to do the car wash because I knew I was doing it for a good cause,” Libby said. “I felt proud of myself and also tired.”

At one point, the skies opened up, and Sedona said the girls almost wanted to stop. But they pushed through it, and teamwork kicked into full gear. Each pair was in charge of washing one side of the car, and one person would be assigned to the front or back of the vehicle. If the girls got sweaty, they had a simple solution — turn the hose on and cool down.

What they didn’t expect, though, was the generosity of their

community. Their first donation alone was $100. At the end of the first day, they’d raised more than $300. And by the end of the second day, the total was up to $550.

“It made all of us feel really grateful because there was a lot of people that wanted to help,” Skyla said. “Whenever the person gave their donation, they were like, ‘This is for a great cause, you guys are doing something amazing,’ and it made us feel good that we were helping.”

One family didn’t have their car washed, but they wanted to boost the girls’ donation. They ended up giving $450 to bring the total amount raised to $1,000. The girls were shocked.

“The group of people there really got behind these girls and made it successful,” said Sedona and Skyla’s father, Pete Vega. “I think it is important that we inspire others. What they did was two days of hard work, but ultimately, they want to make sure that the message gets out that it inspires others.”

Karen Young, Sedona and Skyla’s mother, said although the girls were the masterminds behind the project, they couldn’t have done it without their community rallying to help.

“We’re just the facilitators — we’re the vehicle, but this community that donated is what gave us the wings and the legs to make this happen,” Young said. “You can be the leaders of a company, but it’s all those people who give — like an employee — who make the company amazing. (The girls) came up with the idea, they had entrepreneurial spirit, but the community is really the one to applaud.”

Scott Billue, founder of Matthew’s Hope, told the girls their giving spirits and donation were mind-blowing.

“You guys are so fantastic, I can’t even tell you,” Billue told them. “It literally brings me to tears, and I don’t say that lightly. This donation is one of my favorites that’s ever happened here in 11 years because of the fact of how you did it. I’m just absolutely blown away. … It’s huge to me because honestly, it gives me hope. You’re saying to me, ‘Look, if 8-, 9- and 11-year olds can do this, then anybody can if they’re willing to go out there.’”

SPORTS EDITOR

IN OTHER NEWS

The Ocoee City Commission’s meeting Tuesday, June 15, lasted almost three hours as the commission approved a list of new ordinances and annexations of property into the city.

The first big item of the evening was the approval of the sale of city-owned property at 2 N. Bluford Ave. to VMG Construction for the development of a two-story commercial building.

“We’ve had this property under consideration for at least two times — once to VMG, and under that prior contract we were going to donate the property to them after they constructed a building substantially consistent with the building the city of Ocoee designed; a two-story commercial building that would really set a tone for the downtown redevelopment,” said Scott Cookson, the city’s attorney. “In city staff’s opinion, this particular lot may be the most important piece — other than City Hall — for the downtown redevelopment, so there was some interest to make sure the development of that lot fit the plans and kind of the look for the downtown.”

Located just down the street from City Hall, the property was acquired by the city in 2017 for $344,000. Instead of the original plan of donating the property, VMG bought it for $389,000.

According to city documents, the developer plans to build a building with restaurant and office space that would cost between $4 million to $5 million to construct. As a part of the agreement, until VMG starts building, the site will be used to stockpile supplies being used to build the new City Hall.

The motion carried 4-1, with Commissioner George Oliver dissenting because of the city’s decision not to do an appraisal on the property.

n The commission approved the annexation and rezoning of homes at 529 First St., 102 Wurst Road, 503 Second St. and 518 Second St.

NEW BUSINESSES

Four items on the night’s agenda included the annexation and rezoning of a few properties in the city looking to build or expand their businesses.

The Barkeritaville planned unit development — located on the east side of Tomyn Boulevard and 1,517 feet from Roberson Road — had a substantial amendment to the PUD/LUP approved that will now allow the applicant, Simmons Pet Properties, to place a threestory, 104,907-square-foot, 727-unit indoor self-storage facility on the property while eliminating a 16,182-squarefoot building.

The site itself, which features Pet Paradise, still fits its permitted uses — veterinary facility, pet resort/daycare, office and retail among other things — and this addition would fill out the rest of the usable space, Ocoee Development Services

Director Michael Rumer said.

“What you will see is the indoor-self storage is what’s going to come in and develop the rest of the site — there is not going to be any room to add any more uses,” Rumor said. “The impact of self-storage is low, due to low employees and low trips.”

Meanwhile, the 0.25-acre property located at 54 Rewis St. had its small-scale comprehensive-plan amendment approved — switching from Low-Density Residential to Commercial — and was rezoned from City of Ocoee R-1 to City of Ocoee PUD. The applicant, Wendy Ellerbe — a hairstylist and owner of Shaggy Shêk Studio Salon on Franklin Street — plans to develop a two-story, mixeduse building with a 875-squarefoot retail space for a hair salon, which will have an 875-squarefoot apartment on the second floor.

“I’m a local business owner and lifelong resident of Ocoee,” Ellerbe said. “I’ve been interested in designing this building — it fits in with the new urban development … it’s very close to your plans for Bluford. I know this is where I want to be — the Center of Good Living — and I have a beautiful vision, and I’d like to share it with Ocoee.”

The final two items saw the commission approve the annexation and rezoning for the 409 Ocoee-Apopka Road PUD and a 3.08-acre parcel located on West Road — just east of Ocoee-Apopka Road.

Located on 4.76 acres on the east side of Ocoee-Apopka Road, the 409 Ocoee-Apopka Road PUD includes the development of a commercial/flex business center that will be made up of two buildings at a maximum square footage of 61,400. A 29,000-square-foot building with retail in the front and rear delivery access at grade height will be the project’s focal point, according to city documents. The second building will be up to 32,000 square feet and will include available dock heights.

Meanwhile, the property on 2100 West Road was rezoned to C-2 — or community commercial — following its annexation into the city.

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THURSDAY, JUNE 24, 2021

A match with some Disney magic DANIELLE HENDRIX ASSOCIATE EDITOR

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

Friedrich Hayek

“Road to Serfdom,” 1944

J

ust as Mickey Mouse and Pluto are a dynamic duo, so are Robin Walker and her Canine Companions for Independence puppy, Walt.

In fact, you may even see the two of them at Walt Disney World Resort. Walker is the manager of Disney’s Tri-Circle-D Ranch — and it’s a great training ground for the namesake of the theme park’s founder, too.

Walker, a Winter Garden resident and avid animal-lover, became a puppy-raiser for CCI last year. CCI provides service dogs to individuals with disabilities at no charge, and volunteer puppy-raisers such as Walker allow the organization to offer hope and independence to thousands nationwide.

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

GETTING INVOLVED

Having worked around horses and fostered dogs for years, Walker already had plenty of experience with animals. When she first heard of CCI and its puppy-raising program years ago, she was intrigued.

But she never truly thought she could do it.

“I just really wasn’t sure what the parameters were,” Walker said.

“It was just kind of one of those blue-sky ideas, and then one day it’s like, ‘You know, I really need to go in and talk to them,’ because the passion builds — it never waned.”

Volunteer puppy-raisers provide CCI puppies with a safe home, take them to obedience classes, serve a healthy diet, provide socialization opportunities and give lots of love.

They also teach the puppy manners and 30 basic commands.

Eventually, Walker couldn’t wait any longer. She decided to fill out an application to become a puppy-raiser. After completing an interview and finding out more about the process, she knew it was something she wanted to do.

“It just really sparked a passion in something I like to do but also for a purpose,” she said. “Through something I loved, I could make a difference in somebody’s life and be around other people who are doing the same thing and have that same passion. The recipients of these dogs are appreciative, and there’s just so much involved and positivity around it.”

Puppy-raisers receive their puppy at 8 weeks old and generally keep them until they are 18 months old and ready to matriculate into the organization’s training program. Walt is Walker’s second CCI puppy; her first, Idris, matriculated earlier this year.

“I’m his main caretaker; I’m everything to him,” she said. “My responsibilities are to make sure he’s happy, he’s healthy, (and) he’s well-adjusted and well-educated.”

Walker always knew Walt was a special puppy, and his arrival to Florida proved that. CCI puppies are specially bred for their purpose, and Walt came from a litter in Santa Rosa, California. He arrived in Kissimmee by private jet, thanks

“I just look at this creature and think, ‘He’s amazing, and I get to be part of that.’ I’m lucky to be able to do that.”

— Robin Walker

Advertising Operations Manager / Allison Brunelle, abrunelle@OrangeObserver.com

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Courtesy Canine Companions for Independence

With Robin Walker serving as the manager of the Tri-Circle-D Ranch at Walt Disney Walt Resort, her Canine Companions for Independence puppy, Walt, sometimes gets to come to work with her.

to a volunteer pilot.

“I was trying to find this airport in the dark and got out there and there’s nobody there,” Walker said. “But then all of a sudden, this plane starts to land, and I must admit I got teary — me and the other puppy-raiser who was there. You see this little private jet coming in, and it’s just impressive.

You’re like, ‘Oh my gosh, my puppy is on that plane!’ ... The pilot gets off, and they greet you and they’re like, ‘Yeah, we’ve got some precious cargo for you!’”

MAKING MAGIC

At just 5 months old, Walt already is making dreams come true. He often goes to work at the Tri-Circle-D Ranch with Walker, donning a special yellow cape as he gets in his socialization and educational experiences.

Volunteer puppy-raisers are expected to take the puppies many places to offer socialization opportunities and allow for exposure and acclimation to new sights, sounds and environments.

“We’re really grateful for companies that do allow our puppyraisers to do this,” said Martha Johnson, public relations and marketing coordinator for CCI. “It’s also just a great socialization opportunity for them to be

exposed to all these different sounds and people and things. …

It’s really helpful that (they) have that support.”

Walker said Walt gets to meet the cast members and guests, bringing smiles to everyone he meets.

He even has gotten to meet some of the horses at the ranch. In addition to helping with Walt’s own education, Walker said she loves that his presence educates those around him.

“It really does help educate them on when guests come in with disabilities and what that means, and to feel comfortable around somebody that has a disability and a dog,” Walker said. “You can approach them, ask questions and talk to them, and not feel disconnected or afraid. I think he’s really helped with education as far as that’s concerned.”

And although one may think Walker was paired with Walt because of the Disney connection, it actually was pure coincidence.

CCI’s breeding program assigns each puppy litter a letter, progressing alphabetically from A to Z. Each puppy will be given a name that begins with the corresponding letter. Walt happens to be from the “W” litter and was named by his breeder/caretaker in honor of the wonder and excitement asso-

ciated with the name.

Being a puppy-raiser is not always easy. It takes a lot of time and dedication, and in the end, there are some tough goodbyes involved. But goodbye is the goal, and it’s why Walker and so many others selflessly pour their heart into their puppies and their purpose.

“You’re not in it for you,” Walker said. “Part of it is because it brings you joy, and it’s part of who you are and the people you want to be around. But you’re in it for the dogs and the people that are going to get these dogs and that you’re going to get to meet.

“The goal is for them to be successful,” she said. “People are always asking me, ‘Well, don’t you want him to fail? Don’t you want to keep him?’ It’s like, ‘No, I want him to be successful.’ … I just look at this creature and think, ‘He’s amazing, and I get to be part of that.’ I’m lucky to be able to do that.”

“We couldn’t do our work without puppy-raisers,” Johnson added. “They’re the very key part of the puzzle. Giving (the puppies) away is difficult, but they understand the purpose. We’re just really grateful for Robin and companies that support their work, as well.”

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.

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THURSDAY, JUNE 24, 2021

THE BOOM IS BACK: The Magic Kingdom and Epcot are bringing back their nighttime shows with music, lighting and other extravagant effects.

AMY QUESINBERRY COMMUNITY EDITOR

What’s Disney magic without a lot of sparkle and fanfare?

Walt Disney World Resort is lighting up the skies with the return of its fireworks spectaculars at the Magic Kingdom and Epcot starting July 1. The familiar nighttime booms can be heard this week as the company tests the fireworks shows at the two theme parks.

The Magic Kingdom show, “Happily Ever After,” features Cinderella Castle as the main character — and through technology and projection, the castle transforms from red to purple to blue and from land to sky to underwater images.

Along the journey of “who we’re meant to be,” guests are introduced to a menagerie of Disney characters, including Merida, Moana, Woody and Buzz, Timon and Pumba, Mike and Sully, Wreck It Ralph, and classic favorites such as Snow White and Dumbo. Music — contemporary versions of Disney songs — and pyrotechnics complete the 18-minute show.

At Epcot, the “Epcot Forever” show fills the skies over the World Showcase Lagoon with lasers, kites, fireworks and special effects as children narrate the story of past, present and future. The buildings in the World Showcase light up during the show, which highlights the themes of innovation, exploration, imagination and celebration.

Familiar theme park music adds to the excitement.

The show can be seen from anywhere in Epcot that offers a clear view of the World Showcase Lagoon.

The Disney fireworks, a tradition for decades, were suspended during the pandemic but are returning now that the theme parks are operating around 50% capacity.

Central Florida tourism was shut down last year March 16 when area theme parks completely closed because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Disney’s parks remained closed for four months before slowly opening to guests.

Face masks are required for guests who are not fully vaccinated and for anyone riding Disney transportation. Masks are optional for those who are fully vaccinated.

Courtesy photos

PREVIEW THE SHOW If you don’t want to wait to see the Magic Kingdom’s “Happily Ever After” fireworks show, you can watch it here: bit. ly/3gUISZW.

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Disney fireworks return July 1

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THURSDAY, JUNE 24, 2021

Construction continues at The Mark BAPTIST

First Baptist Church Pastor Tim Grosshans 125 E. Plant St, Winter Garden (407) 656-2352 Sundays: 8:30 AM Traditional 9:45 AM Bible Study 11 AM Contemporary Wednesdays: 6 PM Awana 2nd Campus: First Baptist Church @ Horizon West 15304 Tilden Road, Winter Garden Sundays: 9:45 AM All Ages www.FBCWG.org Starke Lake Baptist Church Pastor Jeff Pritchard PO Box 520 611 W Ave., Ocoee (407) 656-2351 www.StarkeLakeBaptist.org Victory Baptist Church & Christian Academy 1601 A.D. Mims Rd, Ocoee FL 34761 (407) 656-3097 www.VBCOCOEE.com Sunday: 11AM & 6 PM Wednesday: 7 PM

Horizon West’s newest shopping center is well underway, with many tenants scheduled to receive their keys within the next few months.

CHURCH OF GOD

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

DANIELLE HENDRIX

EPISCOPAL

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

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

J

METHODIST

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

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

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

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

n AdventHealth Centra Care (9225 Miley Drive, Winter Garden) — June 30 n Heartland Dental (9235 Miley Drive, Winter Garden) — June 30 n 7-Eleven (9255 Miley Drive, Winter Garden) — July 30 n Walgreens (9215 Miley Drive, Winter Garden) — Sept. 7 n Starbucks (9265 Miley Drive, Winter Garden) — Oct. 4 n Building H (9250 Miley Drive, Winter Garden) — Oct. 8. This building includes Horizon West Barber Shop, Huey Magoo’s, Piccolinos Haircuts and three vacant suites. n Building I (9240 Miley Drive, Winter Garden) — Oct. 13. This building includes Top Star Surfaces, Urban Cocoon Nail Salon and a vacant suite. n Building C (9245 Miley Drive, Winter Garden) — Oct. 18. This building includes AT&T, Jeremiah’s Italian Ice, Kenpo Karate Chophouse, Papa John’s Pizza, PCG Artisanal Burgers, Winter Garden Liquors and a vacant suite. n The Learning Experience (9275 Miley Drive, Winter Garden) — Dec. 6 Note: This is the current estimated timeline provided by the developer.

grocer Earth Fare. Unicorp was scheduled to turn over the shell of the building to New York Beer Project on June 15. It’s estimated the brewery will be completed in mid-March 2022.

Along with New York Beer Project, there are several other new businesses filling out the shopping center. Most tenant turnover is scheduled to take place throughout the summer and into fall, although tenants will still need time to complete buildout before they can open.

Those businesses include 7-Eleven, AT&T, AdventHealth Centra Care, Heartland Dental, Horizon West Barber Shop, Huey Magoo’s, Jeremiah’s Italian Ice, Kenpo Karate Chophouse, Papa John’s Pizza, PCG Artisanal Burgers, Piccolinos Haircuts, Starbucks, The Learning Experience, Top Star Surfaces, Urban Cocoon Nail Salon, Walgreens and Winter Garden Liquors.

Although much of the retail and restaurant space has been leased, there still are five vacancies, according to The Mark’s most recent leasing information.

For more on leasing opportunities, contact Leasing Director Taylor Coan at (407) 405-2936.

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Moving Forward Program Offerings

ust a mile from the brand-new Horizon High School, a new shopping center in Horizon West’s Village F is well underway — and developer Unicorp will soon start handing over the reins to its tenants.

Located at the corner of Seidel Road and Seton Creek Boulevard, The Mark at Horizon West shopping center has been in the works for a couple of years now. It’s one of many projects that Unicorp has developed in the area over the years. Unicorp also developed the Westside Shoppes in Horizon West’s Lakeside Village, the ICON Park Orlando complex and O-Town West in Southwest Orange County.

“The Mark offers a versatile retail neighborhood center encompassing 21 acres in Winter Garden,” according to Unicorp staff. “This ideal property is situated just 5 miles from Disney’s Magic Kingdom and experiences traffic from the 10,000 residential units within 1 mile and 40,000 residential units within 3 miles.”

The Mark comprises more than 112,000 square feet of retail and restaurants on property that once belonged to the Walt Disney World Company, according to Chuck Whittall, president of Unicorp.

The Mark includes 10 buildings or pads ranging in size from the smallest at 2,525 square feet to the largest — a multi-story restaurant building with 14,200 square feet on the first floor, 6,200 square feet on the second floor and a 5,000-square-foot enclosed rooftop.

That building will be home to one of the highlights for the shopping center — New York Beer Project — a destination brewery that currently operates locations in Lockport and Victor, New York. The brewery took over the building that once was supposed to house organic

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OBSERVER

WEST ORANG E HISTO RY

OrangeObserver.com

THESE OLD TIMES

FROM THE WINTER GARDEN HERITAGE FOUNDATION

80 years ago

The paper was filled with the names of families from the West Orange area migrating to Daytona Beach for the summer holidays. Some were leaving for the July 4 weekend, while others planned to remain for the entire summer months.

70 years ago

FROM THE ARCHIVES The Winter Garden Times issue dated June 24, 1915, published 106 years ago, reports in the “Oakland Notes” column that “the boy scouts are camping this week at Palm Springs (at Altamonte Springs), accompanied by their scout master, Harold Henschen. They will use a tent and camp in true boy scout style. Several of the boys hiked over Monday while the others went by train taking the baggage.”

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.

An ad in the paper invited the public to relax and fish at Lake Apopka.

rant, and a local Winter Garden company, Walker Bros Millworks, played a major role in the construction.

45 years ago

40 years ago

The folks at Walt Disney World were creating a magnificent Mississippi riverboat restau-

THURSDAY, JUNE 24, 2021

THROWBACK THURSDAY JUNE 28, 1979 In the summer of 1979, Eckerd Drugs advertised its best hot-weather prices in The Winter Garden Times. No day at the beach or lake or afternoon by the pool was complete without $6.99 women’s swimsuits, $1.99 athletic shorts, $1.19 flip-flops, $6.99 fishing gear, 77-cent swim rings and 89-cent Coppertone lotion. No access to a beach, lake or pool to cool off? A $3.99 garden hose also would work in a pinch.

85 years ago

Tildenville School announced its yearly achievement awards. First-place honors were bestowed on Caroline Mink, reading; Myrthle Burch, spelling; Ernestine Sangster, number work; and Jeanette Sadler, writing. Receiving second place were Joan Howard, reading; Gerald Ayres, number work; Jack Ross, spelling; and Raymond Gilliard, writing.

Ben Hill Lawson hosted a scavenger hunt, and Jane Ruth Fairchild and Lester Austin were declared the winners.

Some of the articles that had to be brought in were a letter from China, two-cent stamp, black cat, bicycle without brakes and a pair of spy glasses.

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Thousands of gizzard shad, catfish and crappie were found floating dead in Lake Apopka

because of the high algae content that absorbed the oxygen in the water.

30 years ago

Ten-year-old Kaci Peterson, of Windermere, qualified for the U.S. National Waterski Tournament in California. Her brother,

Kyle Peterson, also was a waterskiing champ.

The West Orange Task Force sponsored a new debutante society, with Carla James, Marilyn Doyle and Nancy Manuel as its advisers. Twenty-four local girls were chosen to represent the Lilies of the Garden.

7

8

REAL ESTATE

OBSERVER

|

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, JUNE 24, 2021

Keene’s Pointe estate sells for $3.65 million A

home in the Keene’s

GOTHA

Pointe community in

The condo at 1241 Melontree Court, No. 6, Gotha, sold June 8, for $225,000. Built in 2001, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,539 square feet of living area.

The price per square foot is $146.20. Days on market: 152.

CITRUS OAKS LANDINGS

Windermere topped all West Orange-area residential real-estate transactions from June 5 to 11.

HORIZON WEST

The home at 6025

EDENS HAMMOCK

The townhouse at 14000 Bridgewater Crossings Blvd., Windermere, sold June 11, for $290,000. Built in 2006, it has three bedrooms, twoand-one-half baths and 1,490 square feet. The price per square foot is $194.63. Days on market: Three.

Greatwater Drive, Windermere, sold June 10, for $3.65 million. Built in 2003, it has seven bedrooms, seven-and-one-

HAMILTON GARDENS

half baths, a pool and

The home at 16487 Silversaw Palm Drive, Winter Garden, sold June 9, for $430,000. Built in 2019, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,138 square feet of living area.

The price per square foot is $201.12. Days on market: Five.

7,812 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $467.23. Days on market: Zero.

ng

The home at 16451 Silversaw Palm Drive, Winter Garden, sold June 8, for $385,000. Built in 2020, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,867 square feet. The price per square foot is $206.21. Days on market: 11.

These are the highest-

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The home at 6025 Greatwater Drive, Windermere, sold June 10, for $3.65 million. This custom estate sits on 2.74 acres.

HAWKSMOOR

The townhouse at 16335 Prairie School Drive, Lot 302, Winter Garden, sold June 10, for $405,001. Built in 2021, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,091 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $193.69. Days on market: Zero.

HICKORY HAMMOCK

The home at 15666 Citrus Heights Drive, Winter Garden, sold June 7, for $615,000.

Built in 2016, it has five bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 3,218 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $191.11. Days on market: Two.

HIGHLANDS AT SUMMERLAKE GROVES

INDEPENDENCE/ SIGNATURE LAKES

The townhouse at 15578 Murcott Blossom Blvd., Winter Garden, sold June 10, for $379,000. Built in 2017, it has three bedrooms, twoand-one-half baths and 2,033 square feet of living area.

The price per square foot is $186.42. Days on market: 13.

LAKE SAWYER SOUTH

The home at 15089 Sunstar Way, Winter Garden, sold June 11, for $676,000. Built in 2021, it has five bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths and 4,008 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $168.66. Days on market: Two.

The home at 7050 Broomshedge Trail, Winter Garden, sold June 7, for $301,000. Built in 2012, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,474 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $204.21. Days on market: Three.

The townhouse at 12974 Vennetta Way, Windermere, sold June 7, for $310,000. Built in 2008, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,644 square feet of living area.

The price per square foot is $188.56. Days on market: Nine.

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2017, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,272 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $226.67. Days on market: One.

LAKES OF WINDERMERE

The home at 6906 Duncaster St., Windermere, sold June 8, for $510,000. Built in 2006, it has four bedrooms, three-andone-half baths and 3,789 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $134.60. Days on market: Two.

WINCEY GROVES

The home at 5128 Breezy Acres St., Winter Garden, sold June 11, for $590,906. Built in 2021, it has five bedrooms, three-andone-half baths and 3,628 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $162.87. Days on market: 55.

LAKESHORE PRESERVE

OASIS COVE 2

The condo at 8144 Serenity Spring Drive, No. 2306, Windermere, sold June 11, for $320,000.

Built in 2013, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,028 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $157.79. Days on market: Six. ORCHARD HILLS

The home at 14520 Cedar Hill Drive, Winter Garden, sold June 9, for $625,000. Built in 2016, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,989 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $209.10. Days on market: Three.

The townhouse at 5680 Cypress Hill Road, Winter Garden, sold June 9, for $320,000. Built in 2019, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,712 square feet of living area.

The price per square foot is $186.92. Days on market: Four.

OVERLOOK 2 AT HAMLIN

The home at 5581 Bowman Drive, Winter Garden, sold June 7, for $422,500. Built in 2015, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 2,033 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $207.82. Days on market: One.

WINDERMERE TRAILS realtor.com

The home at 8133 Topsail Place, Winter Garden, sold June 11, for $825,000. It was the largest transaction in Horizon West from June 5 to 11.

SNAPSHOT Total Sales: 55 High Sale Price: $3.65 million Low Sale Price: $135,000 STILLWATER CROSSING

The home at 14557 Yellow Butterfly Road, Windermere, sold June 10, for $455,000. Built in 2014, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,178 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $208.91. Days on market: Three.

SUMMERLAKE

The home at 14658 Bahama Swallow Blvd., Winter Garden, sold June 9, for $475,000. Built in 2014, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,468 square feet of living area.

The price per square foot is $192.46. Days on market: Two. The home at 7612 Bluejack Oak Drive, Winter Garden, sold June 10, for $421,000. Built in 2016, it has three bedrooms, two-andone-half baths and 2,195 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $191.80. Days on market: Three.

SUMMERLAKE GROVES

The home at 15503 Murcott Blossom Blvd., Winter Garden, sold June 9, for $475,000. Built in 2015, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,410 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $197.10. Days on market: Six. SUMMERPORT

The home at 5450 Gemgold Court, Windermere, sold June 8, for $510,000. Built in 2006, it has four bedrooms, two-andone-half baths and 2,615 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $195.03. Days on market: Five.

The home at 1200 Silverlake Park Drive, Windermere, sold June 8, for $399,999. Built in 2014, it has three bedrooms, two-andone-half baths and 1,829 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $218.70. Days on market: Eight.

OAKLAND

OAKLAND TRAILS

The home at 1963 White Feather Loop, Winter Garden, sold June 11, for $393,000. Built in 2018, it has three bedrooms, two-andone-half baths and 1,904 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $206.41. Days on market: 26.

OCOEE

ARDEN PARK NORTH

The home at 1862 Lake Sims Parkway, Ocoee, sold June 10, for $507,900. Built in 2019, it has four bedrooms, three-andone-half baths and 3,405 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $149.16. Days on market: Five.

CROSS CREEK

The home at 459 Fern Meadow Loop, Ocoee, sold June 7, for $436,000. Built in 1998, it has four bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths, a pool and 1,859 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $234.53.

Days on market: Four.

LAKE OLYMPIC TOWNHOMES

The townhouse at 656 Olympic Drive, Ocoee, sold June 8, for $170,000. Built in 1986, it has three bedrooms, two-andone-half baths and 1,457 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $116.68. Days on market: 23.

MCCORMICK RESERVE

The home at 1344 Garrett Gilliam Drive, Ocoee, sold June 9, for $447,500. Built in 2019, it has SEE REAL ESTATE PAGE 10

TENNYSON PARK AT SUMMERPORT

The townhouse at 14484 Bridgewater Crossings Blvd., Windermere, sold June 11, for $305,000.

Built in 2006, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,535 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $198.70. Days on market: Two. WATERLEIGH

The home at 16070 Hampton Crossing Drive, Winter Garden, sold June 7, for $515,000. Built in

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The home at 1862 Lake Sims Parkway, Ocoee, sold June 10, for $507,900.

It was the largest transaction in Ocoee from June 5 to 11.

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The home at 8133 Topsail Place, Winter Garden, sold June 11, for $825,000. Built in 2019, it has five bedrooms, four-andone-half baths and 3,811 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $216.48. Days on market: 294.

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OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, JUNE 24, 2021

five bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 3,056 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $146.43. Days on market: Three.

PROVIDENCE

The home at 6257 Little Lake Sawyer Drive, Windermere, sold June 11, for $1,499,000.

Built in 2007, it has four bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths, a pool and 4,333 square feet. The price per square foot is $345.95. Days on market: 21.

OCOEE HILLS

The home at 505 Apricot Drive, Ocoee, sold June 8, for $280,000. Built in 1973, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,787 square feet of living area.

The price per square foot is $156.69. Days on market: Five.

RESERVE AT LAKE BUTLER SOUND

PRESERVE AT CROWN POINT

The home at 3325 Stonegate Drive, Lot 287, Ocoee, sold June 10, for $476,604. Built in 2021, it has five bedrooms, four baths and 3,204 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $148.75. Days on market: 13.

RESERVE

The home at 1000 Royal Marquis Circle, Ocoee, sold June 8, for $290,000. Built in 2003, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,771 square feet. The price per square foot is $163.75. Days on market: Two. SIMS SUBDIVISION

The home at 140 Lyle St., Ocoee, sold June 11, for $190,000. Built in 1945, it has three bedrooms, one-andone-half baths and 1,157 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $164.22. Days on market: 33.

TEMPLE GROVE ESTATES

The home at 354 Bravada St., Ocoee, sold June 9, for $265,000. Built in 1993, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 1,756 square feet of living area.

The price per square foot is $150.91. Days on market: Four.

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The home at 12928 Canopy Woods Way, Winter Garden, sold June 9, for $1,090,000. It was the largest transaction in Winter Garden from June 5 to 11.

TWIN LAKE WOODS

The home at 1616 Doris Ann Court, Ocoee, sold June 7, for $259,000. Built in 1994, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,326 square feet of living area.

The price per square foot is $195.32. Days on market: 18.

WEST ORANGE OXFORD MOOR

The home at 5621 Oxford Moor Blvd., Windermere, sold June 7, for $930,000. Built in 2004, it has four bedrooms, threeand-one-half baths, a pool and 4,980 square feet of living area.

The price per square foot is $186.75. Days on market: Six.

WINDERMERE

CHAINE DU LAC

The home at 3403 Cocard Court, Windermere, sold June 11, for $1,575,000. Built in 2008, it has six bedrooms, three baths, two half-baths and 5,510 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $285.84.

Days on market: Four.

ISLEWORTH

The home at 5139 Latrobe Drive, Windermere, sold June 7, for $1,775,000. Built in 1991, it has three bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 3,942 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $450.28.

Days on market: 70.

KEENE’S POINTE

BELLARIA

The home at 13244 Bellaria Circle, Windermere, sold June 7, for $1,625,000. Built in 2007, it has five bedrooms, five baths, two half-baths, a pool and 5,471 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $297.02. Days on market: 43.

The home at 6025 Greatwater Drive, Windermere, sold June 10, for $3.65 million. Built in 2003, it has seven bedrooms, seven-and-one-half baths, a pool and 7,812 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $467.23. Days on market: Zero.

The home at 11019 Ullswater Lane, Windermere, sold June 10, for $1,550,000. Built in 2006, it has five bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths, a pool and 5,916 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $262. Days on market: Three.

ROSSER RESERVE

The home at 1003 Down Reserve Court, Windermere, sold June 11, for $2,627,000.

Built in 2021, it has six bedrooms, six baths, three halfbaths, a pool and 6,816 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $385.42. Days on market: Zero.

WHITNEY ISLES AT BELMERE

The home at 1457 Whitney Isles Drive, Windermere, sold June 9, for $522,000. Built in 2005, it has five bedrooms, three baths and 3,234 square feet. The price per square foot is $161.41. Days on market: 35.

WILLOWS AT LAKE RHEA

The home at 11431 Willow Gardens Drive, Windermere, sold June 8, for $650,000. Built in 1993, it has four bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,684 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $242.18.

Days on market: Two.

WINTER GARDEN

BLACK LAKE PRESERVE

The home at 14541 Black Lake Preserve St., Winter Garden, sold June 10, for $440,000.

Built in 2016, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,842 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $154.82.

Days on market: Eight.

CANOPY OAKS

The home at 12928 Canopy Woods Way, Winter Garden, sold June 9, for $1,090,000.

Built in 2017, it has five bedrooms, five baths, two halfbaths and 4,309 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $252.96. Days on market: 23.

PARK PLACE

The home at 137 S. Park Ave., Winter Garden, sold June 7, for $772,500. Built in 2019, it has three bedrooms, threeand-one-half baths and 2,938 square feet of living area.

The price per square foot is $262.93. Days on market: 163.

WATERSIDE

The home at 17016 Quicksilver Ave., Winter Garden, sold June 9, for $391,110. Built in 2020, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,502 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $156.32. Days on market: 25.

WESTPOINT TOWNHOMES

The townhouse at 521 Westpoint Garden Circle, Winter Garden, sold June 7, for $237,000. Built in 2006, it has three bedrooms, twoand-one-half baths and 1,588 square feet of living area.

The price per square foot is $149.24. Days on market: Four.

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AN INSIDER’S GUIDE TO LIVING IN WEST ORANGE COUNTY

WE’RE IN THE

COM THUR ING SDAY

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596 Ocoee Commerce Pkwy, Ocoee, FL 34761-4219 www.westorangeorthopaedics.com

ZONE 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.

This guide will provide you with all the important information about West Orange that you

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.

need to know — no matter if you are a new mover or longtime resident.

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COMMUNITY CALENDAR

FRIDAY, JUNE 25

MATTHEW GURNSEY: 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.

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.

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 outside of the center. For more, visit facebook.com/HWOAHatOakland.

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 26

INDEPENDENCE FIREWORKS SPECTACULAR 6 p.m. Saturday, June 26, in the Independence community in Horizon West.

TUESDAY, JUNE 29

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

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THURSDAY, JUNE 24, 2021

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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.

FRIDAY, JULY 2

RED, WHITE AND BLUES 7 to 9 p.m. Friday, July 2, in downtown Winter Garden, Plant Street.

For more, visitcwgdn.com/318/ Special-Events.

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, visitcwgdn. com/318/Special-Events.

SUNDAY, JULY 4

TOWN OF WINDERMERE FOURTH OF JULY PANCAKE BREAKFAST 9 to 11 a.m. Sunday, July 4, at Town Hall, 520 Main St., Windermere. The town of Windermere is excited to announce the return of the annual Fourth of July Pancake Breakfast.

This year, the breakfast will take place outside of Town Hall to allow for more seating. For more information, call (407) 876-2563.

ANNUAL ALL-AMERICAN KIDS PARADE Parade line-up begins at 9:45 a.m.

Sunday, July 4, at the Winter Garden Masonic Lodge, 230 W. Bay St., Winter Garden. This parade returnsfor its 17th year. Decorate your bike, scooter, or wagon and join the city of Winter Garden for a red, white and blue stroll through downtown Winter Garden. For more, visit cwgdn. com/318/Special-Events.

FIREWORKS DISPLAY 9:15 p.m. Sunday, July 4, at Newton Park, 31 W. Garden Ave., Winter Garden. Take a chair or a blanket to celebrate the holiday with a fireworks display over Lake Apopka. For more, visitcwgdn.com/318/SpecialEvents.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 7

ORANGE COUNTY VISION 2050 TOWN HALL 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, July 7; and Thursday, July 8; virtually. Orange County is fortunate to have a great diversity of environments – from urban and suburban to rural and pristine natural areas. For more information, contact Planning Division staff at (407) 836-5600 or planning@ocfl.

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OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, JUNE 24, 2021

FOUNDATION ACADEMY WELCOMES NEW VP

Foundation Academy announced Liefke Meyers as its new vice president of development.

Meyers previously served for eight years as vice president of investor relations at the Orlando Economic Partnership. There, she executed successful investment-donor strategies to maintain the highest private-sector funding for economic development in the state.

THE MASKED READER

‘Raybearer’ An inspiring story about love, abandonment, freedom and justice.

OCPS ANNOUNCES NEW ADMINISTRATORS

Orange County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Barbara Jenkins introduced several new administrators who will serve the West Orange and Southwest Orange learning communities: Carol Morris, assistant principal, Lake Buena Vista High; Debra Lynn Turner, assistant principal, Sunset Park Elementary; Chivas Latrae Coner, assistant principal, Gotha Middle; and Wendy Ivory, executive area director, West Learning Community.

SCHOOL BOARD TO VOTE ON MASK-POLICY CHANGES

The Orange County School Board held a rule development workshop to review proposed revisions and take public comment pertaining to School Board Policy EBBA — Disease Prevention; Face Coverings.

This draft policy makes face masks and coverings optional on OCPS campuses for the 2021-22 school year.

The School Board is scheduled to vote at the July 13 School Board meeting, with public comment available. If approved, the effective date for Policy EBBA will be Aug. 2.

GABE GOMES AKA THE MASKED READER

What if you’ve sworn to protect the one you were born to destroy?

I think it’s a little interesting how one sentence on the back cover can perfectly summarize an entire book. “Raybearer,” by Jordan Ifueko, is the story of a magical child, named Tarisai, who grows up in a mansion surrounded by maids, tutors and servants. But amid those people, the one person Tarisai wants — no, the person she longs for — is not there.

That person is her mother, who in this book is only known as “The Lady.” Tarisai was cursed by her mother, and because of her curse, Tarisai only has one main mission in her life — to gain the Crown Prince’s trust and kill him later.

Once Tarisai becomes old enough, The Lady sends her off to the capital to compete with other children who are her age.

If Tarisai manages to gain the prince’s trust, she will join him and his council through a magic called the Ray, which is deeper than blood. Fortunately for The Lady, the Crown Prince takes a liking to Tarisai, and he anoints her as part of his council. But this is unfortunate for Tarisai, who has her own feelings and

does not want to kill — only to be loved.

When this book arrived through my library delivery system, I am sorry to say this, but I committed a practical sin in the book-lover community. I judged a book by its cover. I’m sorry, but at least I judged correctly, because I thought the cover looked really good.

But the truth was, the actual story was even better. I love the characters, the plot, dialogue, development — everything about this book.

If Jordan Ifueko were an artist, this would be her Mona Lisa.

There are a lot of questions written in her story, but one thing is for sure: Whether in a library or bookstore, if you see this on a shelf, trust me, you will love this book more than Will Ferrell, the actor who played “Elf”!

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THURSDAY, JUNE 24, 2021

SUMMER SCHOOL ZONE

Windermere Prep students win national science competition The team earned a first-place finish in EarthEcho International’s EchoChallenge.

HAILEY HOLBDY WINDERMERE PREP

Being an influential scientist seems like a mere pipe dream to many of us.

However, that is not the case for three Windermere Prep students.

As Brandon Doggett, Margarita Guzman, Sofia Marrero, and teacher/mentor Ashley Hollern bask in their well-deserved win in the national science competition EchoChallenge, they have proven they are scientists.

Team Algae Biofiltration is the claim to fame.

EarthEcho International, a global environmental nonprofit organization, recognized these hard-working students for “creating a Biofiltration device that

grows good algae to outcompete the bad algae,” says team member Sofia.

The team created a contraption to fight the increasing problem of harmful algae blooms.

The creation of a natural way to grow healthy, “good” algae to outgrow and out-compete the harmful algae blooms is a huge accomplishment, because it addresses an issue that has been tearing through ecosystems across the globe. Throughout the process of bringing awareness about the issue, the students decided to continue their research with their $5,000 prize from their win, and, as Sofia says, show people “they can solve a problem if they put their mind to it.”

The team began work on its submission in October 2020 and continued research throughout the school year. The students worked during class, free periods, after school and on their own. Team members say they are excited to continue their research with one another but say they will also be reaching out to other schools across the coun-

Courtesy photo

The Windermere Prep students began research for their submission last October.

try to compare data and extend research and measurements.

The team tells us that there were many factors involved in their success. From social-media marketing to late nights and to having an experienced mentor such as their teacher Mrs. Hollern, the group worked hard to put this project together in just a few months for the competition.

The team completed, revised and reviewed the project together — and also utilized one another’s

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individual strengths. The students all have their own personal strengths, and throughout the project, they played to them and divided the project into smaller sections. The students say they looked back at their work moments before they won and realized that, win or lose, they created an amazing project and were going to be proud because of all they had accomplished already.

They had a two-fold approach

of research and awareness work in tandem to propel change, Hollern said of the students, adding that they created a project worthy of first place.

She also said they are all thankful to have had help from experts and outsiders such as Dr. West Bishop, of Sepro Corporation, and Tim Rumage, a planetary ethicist and professor at Ringling College of Art and Design.

They also extend thanks to Philippe Cousteau Jr., grandson of famed oceanographer Jacques Cousteau, and the founder of EarthEcho International for the experience and ability to share and continue their research.

These four individuals have come together to solve a global issue and be rather successful through their solution. Sofia said during the final event of the competition, they were on the fence about if they could have really won it or not. However, as the time to reveal the winner came closer, she said she started to feel in her gut that they were going to walk away as victors.

“When they announced the first-place winner, I was in shock,” she said. “I just couldn’t believe that all of our hard work paid off and that we were given a huge grant to continue our research even further.”

The future of science is in good hands, and your community could not be more proud of your commitment and dedication.

Continue to inspire and follow your passions. It seems to work out when you do!

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OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, JUNE 24, 2021

Pomp and circumstance The Edgewood Children’s Ranch is celebrating its Class of 2021 graduates, Leon H. and Stephane S.

Editor’s note: Students’ last names have been omitted to preserve anonymity.

Graduating high school marks a pivotal milestone in a child’s life.

For the graduating seniors at Edgewood Children’s Ranch, the accomplishment represents much more than just a milestone — it opens the door to a brighter future.

And this year, the ranch is celebrating two graduates: Leon H. and Stephane S. For more than 50 years, the nonprofit has provided behaviorally challenged children and their families support through a Christian-centered approach to education, behavioral training and spiritual development. The goal is for ranchers to return to their homes, schools and society as emotionally healthy young people. Currently, the ranch is housing 35 children ages 7 to 17.

“We see the hard work, the dedication and the focus that they put into the program and their schoolwork, but we also see the dedication, the love and the encouragement from our staff.”

— Kimberly Vinson

The ranch’s on-site school, the Edgewood Ranch Academy, meets ranchers of all ages where they are in their educational journeys and aims to elevate them to the next level — preparing them for life after school.

“You are tested when you come in to see where you are academically, what you might be behind in, and that way — by this diagnostic testing — we can see where we need to work with you on,” said Kimberly Vinson, development and events manager at the ranch. “Each child works at their own pace. You have to have daily and weekly goals. …

Then we have staff and tutors that also help.”

Leon came to the ranch two years ago, when his single mom sought a safe place for him to work through anger issues and develop better communication skills. His main goals were to graduate high school and improve his relationship with his family.

“The ranch meant a lot for me and really helped change my life,” said Leon, who graduated with honors last month. “Graduating at the ranch also was important for me since I got to celebrate with people I’ve built bonds with over the past several years.”

His growth is evident also to ranch staff and Executive Director Bruce Jordan.

“Leon has achieved both and has grown into a determined, kind, intelligent young man who continues to grow his relationship with

Courtesy Laura Day Photography

Leon H. and Stephane S. recently celebrated their graduation from the Edgewood Ranch Academy.

God and his family,” Jordan said.

Fellow graduate Stephane has been part of the ranch family for five years and also graduated with honors after having joined the program in middle school. Back then, he was failing all subjects and often found himself in the principal’s office. Today, Stephane is hopeful about his future.

“If the ranch hadn’t helped me, I would not have graduated,” Stephane said. “I’m so grateful for them taking me in time after time.

I praise God for this miracle.”

“Over the past few years, Stephane has grown into a young

DEVELOPMENT by Amanda Rafkin and Ross Trudeau; 101 High-five sound CROSSWORD SURPRISING Edited by David Steinberg 103 *Easing in 108 Darn, as socks 110 Pour ferret food into a cat’s bowl, say 111 ___ Lingus 112 YouTubers, e.g.

113 *Dramatic disclosure, and what the starred answers’ first words amount to?

117 Thorn’s place 118 Abstains from 119 See 62-Down 120 Chopping tool 121 Triage sites, for short 122 Dr. Mom’s “treatment” 123 Choice words?

©2021 Universal Uclick

ACROSS 1 Blue Devils’ grp.

4 Not trans 7 Touch in a recess game 10 Recede 13 “Possibly” 14 Gallery event 16 Nonstandard nickname for L.A.’s state 18 *What you may say after solving 113-Across 22 Enlisted 23 Pop’s Grande, to fans 24 Sun, in Spanish 25 Role 27 *Very quickly 29 Rental car company

31 Heckler’s shout 32 Name within “Georgiana” 33 Diagnostic scan, briefly 34 For a specialized audience 36 Nocturnal hunter?

38 Uncle in a top hat 39 Purchase 41 Colorfully titled Taylor Swift album 43 *Wrong associated with a green-eyed monster 45 Juul, e.g.

47 Online talk type 48 “The Addams Family” cousin 49 Readily available 50 *Feel sad

54 Truth alternative 55 Oswald’s nickname, perhaps 56 Wildlife area?

57 Projecting window 60 They can be inflated or massaged 64 Enemy 65 *Punch hard, per Muhammad Ali 69 Beer such as Hoptimus Prime, briefly 70 Doing nothing 72 “Hang tight” 73 Stampeding animal in “The Lion King” 74 Person laying asphalt

DOWN 1 ___ acids 2 Military trainee 3 Singer-songwriter Lauper 4 The Friendly Ghost 5 Wrath 6 Take badly?

7 French Polynesia’s most populous island 8 Chicken ___ king 9 Succeeds at home plate 10 Food safety concern 11 “Pow!” 12 Radar dot 13 Actress who originated the role of Elphaba in “Wicked” 15 Leave in the lurch 17 Seriously stuck 18 Ancient Aegean region 76 Construct 19 “Yummy in my ___!”

78 *Skimpy beach attire 20 Group of brewers?

81 Point of church?

21 “Cool,” in the ‘60s 83 ___ guzzler 22 Lively dances 85 Alyssa Naeher’s national 26 Broadway award team 28 Certain Duraflame products 86 Optimist’s mantra 30 As yet 87 *Gazing upon 35 Winter hrs. in K.C. 89 CPR pro 37 Actress ___ Elise Goldsberry 90 Six-pack muscles 39 Sinks one’s teeth into 91 Opening 40 “How disgusting!”

94 Analyze, as a sentence 42 End of a college URL 95 Hosiery material 44 Chicago airport 97 Brain wave readout 46 “Space Jam” FX (Abbr.)

47 Steak named for a part 99 Pre-A.D. you don’t eat 100 Bouncer’s concern 48 Feels fine

man who understands the power of internal motivation, the importance of responsibility and the value of developing a personal relationship with God,” Jordan said.

Additionally, former rancher John S. recently graduated from Apopka High School. John was a rancher during his fourth- and fifth-grade school years. His mother, Jennifer White, credits the ranch with helping John change his path and outlook on life. In September, John is joining the U.S. Marines.

“Needless to say, we’re so very proud of them,” Vinson 50 L.A. area’s ___ Stadium 51 Polo competitor 52 Online-only publication 53 Decree 54 Remove coding errors from 58 Sign up 59 Biblical food hidden in “human nature” 61 Supplying a bank?

62 With 119-Across, like most sandals 63 Garment that may be draped nivi style 66 Arcade coin 67 Not as much 68 Long poems 71 Qatari leaders 75 Letters before an alias 77 First zodiac sign 79 Alcohol left out of a virgin daiquiri 80 Something to drool over?

81 Actors’ platforms 82 Back-to-school night attendees 83 Movement with a rainbow flag 84 Ga. airport 87 ___ musubi (Hawaiian snack made with canned meat) 88 Knot on a tree 89 Comes in 90 “Just ___” (No Doubt song) 92 Squirrel’s nut 93 Church seats 96 Midwestern tribe members 98 “... and so on, and so on” 102 “I’ll handle it” 104 “All Boys ___ Blue” (George M. Johnson memoir) 105 “Awesome!”

106 Everglades beast, informally 107 0Teens’ rooms, stereotypically 109 It’s unlimited on some phone plans 114 “Toy Story” dinosaur 115 Negative connector 116 Stereo knob (Abbr.)

said. “We see the hard work, the dedication and the focus that they put into the program and their schoolwork, but we also see the dedication, the love and the encouragement from our staff.

It feels like — and you know — you’re definitely a part of their life, because we see young people become young adults.

“We’ve seen Stephane grow up, and we’ve seen Leon mature,” she said. “We see them mature and just try. When someone believes in them and they try for the first time and succeed at something, especially school, it’s a big deal.”

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.

“ZN DB, AT FNW XNEB AZ BRNWVC ZN IBENZB FNWY XATB ZN AZ, ZCBR FNW’YB INARV ZCB YAVCZ ZCARV.” SYAH SYAHZNTTBYHNR

“HK’C NPAS BLCHBU KZ VJLX CPVVZUKHTW UZJBC FBALPCB KSLK’C OSLK H GZ HT NX JHDB: H CPVVZUK NX CZT.” DULTABC NAGZUNLTG Puzzle Two Clue: O equals W

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Puzzle One Clue D equals M

DANIELLE HENDRIX

© 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

06-24-21

JUNE 24, 2021

HIGH

SPORTS

1

5

Windermere Little League’s Tristan Trimbee had an average of .875 with five home runs and 11 RBIs during her team’s three-game district tourney. Page 16.

Going the distance

The Dr. Phillips boys basketball team capped off a perfect 4-0 run in the GBCA Live with a 67-59 win over Georgia powerhouse Milton Sunday, June 20. In the win, Denzel Aberdeen led the way with 20 points and three assists, while Riley Kugel notched 18 points, five assists and three rebounds. Ernest Udeh Jr. tacked on 11 points, seven rebounds and three blocks.

2

TFA alumna Teahna Daniels punched her ticket to the Tokyo Olympics after finishing in third place in the finals of the 100 meters at the U.S. Olympic Track & Field Trials Saturday, June 19, at Hayward Field on the campus of the University of Oregon. The former Texas Longhorn logged in a time of 11.03 in the 100-meter final to qualify for her first Olympic Games.

3

The Winter Garden Squeeze’s rally came up just short in a 9-6 loss at the hands of the Sanford River Rats Saturday, June 19. Despite the loss, Coastal Carolina junior Dale Thomas had another solid outing as he went 1-for-4 with three RBIs — two of which came on a triple — while scoring a run.

4

It was a busy few days on the baseball and softball diamonds in the Florida District 14 Little League tournaments. On championship night — Friday, June 18 — the Winter Garden 10U boys defeated Windermere 11-3, while the Windermere 10U girls took down Apopka in an 11-0 blanking. Meanwhile, after being tied up at 8-8 in the sixth inning, the Dr. Phillips 11U baseball team won an extra-inning thriller over Winter Garden in a 12-8 win that went seven innings.

5

The First Academy announced Thursday, June 17, that longtime varsity boys lacrosse coach David Oliver decided to retire. During his successful 14-year career, Oliver picked up 130 career wins and was named the 2019-20 Coach of the Year. Along with his battles on the sideline, Oliver also returned to coaching last season following the completion of cancer treatment.

Canada’s Taryn Grant crashes down.

The King of Darkness tournament returned in full force and featured the best water-skiers from around the world.

TROY HERRING SPORTS EDITOR

H

igh up in the darkened sky, Sasha Danisheuskaya seemingly floats with ease — like a bird caught in a strong headwind.

With the ski handle firmly in hand, and her skis spread, it’s a moment Danisheuskaya has experienced countless times all around the world. So despite being more than 100 feet in the air, it’s just another day at the office as she soars during the King of Darkness ski tournament Saturday, June 19, on Lake Hancock in Horizon West.

“You can feel the pressure of the wind,” said Danisheuskaya, who lives right by the lake. “You’re not free-falling. You just feel speed, and it’s kind of like landing with a parachute. But you can also feel in the air if you did well or if you did (badly) — if you get pulled into the boat or to the shore, you can still analyze what you did well, because the goal is to have the farthest jump.

“In the air you can feel, ‘Oh, SEE SKIING PAGE 16

Photos by Troy Herring

Lauren Morgan flies through the air during the Open Women’s Jump Finals on Saturday night.

SPORTS SPOTLIGHT

OBSERVER

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OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, JUNE 24, 2021

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

Tristan Trimbee

Tristan Trimbee has been a part of Windermere Little League for six seasons now, and she’s tearing it up in the circle and at the plate so far this All-Star season. During the team’s three-game district tournament, Trimbee hit for an average of .875 with five home runs and 11 RBIs.

When did you first get into softball?

My dad really put me into softball, because he played baseball all of his life — so he wanted me to try it. I just tried playing it, and as I went on, I got better — I think I started at 5 or 6.

THE BASICS AGE: 11 ORGANIZATION: Windermere Little League TEAM: Charge, All-Stars (Minors) POSITION(S): Pitcher, shortstop

What has kept you in the game for all these years?

Because I’ve really gotten better at it, and I want to keep playing because I enjoy the game, I like the teamwork, and I think maybe I can get a scholarship.

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

I enjoy being in control and me having to make the outs.

I think the toughest part is that you’re really close to the batter, and if they hit a hard ground ball or line drive to you, you have to react very quickly.

Do you have a favorite moment that stands out during your time playing softball?

Probably when I hit my first home run — that was great.

I remember my team came out, and they were patting my helmet super hard.

As a whole, what is the most difficult thing about playing softball?

Definitely when you have to face losing, and when you strikeout, sometimes it’s a little tough because you’re trying to help your teammates. You just have to get over that really quickly, and you just have to keep on being happy and support your other teammates.

Troy Herring

No. 7, you got it,” and stuff like that. And I usually just think about the next pitch — you just have to forget about that other one … and you just keep on going.

Sasha Danisheuskaya lands with a splash following a successful jump.

What is your favorite part of playing in Windermere Little League?

I like that it’s competitive and it’s not like the other districts — they’re probably not as competitive as Windermere Little League. There’s championships and there’s playoffs and all of that stuff, and I like that it’s competitive — I’m very competitive.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15

Talk a little bit about your big weekend in the district tournament.

I had five home runs, I had a couple of triples, and I really didn’t get any plays in the field — so hitting was definitely my high — because our pitcher, she had 12 strikeout games; all of the games. There were no hits on her at all.

The skiers go about their precompetition prep in their own way, but just about all of them have a set routine.

For Danisheuskaya — a Belarusian who has been competing since she was a child — the approach, takeoff and landing all require her undivided attention.

“When you get on the course, you just focus on the key points of your technique,” Danisheuskaya said. “When I ski, I just think about my technique and my goals.”

In the eyes of Freddy Krueger — a Winter Garden resident who finished first in the men’s open jump event — it’s sort of comparable to being a Major League hitter in the case that every set up to the ramp is a little different. There is a rhythm that you have to be in to hit it just right.

“We start turning to the ramp about 200 feet away, and at the time we’re making our turn, we’re traveling about 35 mph,” Krueger said. “And then we’re going to double our speed as we approach the bottom of the jump — hitting it somewhere around 70. All of that timing is critical. If we’re a little too early, and we’ve got to stand there and wait for the ramp to come to us, then it’s going to crunch us up.”

For everyone during the weekend’s competition, those routines stayed true, but there was

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In the women’s open jump event, Danisheuskaya hit a Round 1 third-best at 52.2 meters (171 feet), before going for 49.9 meters (164 feet) in Round 3 to finish in fifth place in the Open Women’s Jump.

ART OF THE NIGHT JUMP

BUILDING SOMETHING SPECIAL

Throughout the day — both Friday and Saturday — the best skiers put on a show for locals and visitors looking for an entertaining escape from the real world.

From the shoreline, folks lined up chairs to watch, as a children’s area offered games and food options to check out. But it was on the lake where the action stole the attention of those in attendance — conjuring “oohs” and “ahhhs” in the process.

While showing their talents is a self-fulfilling thing for skiers such as Krueger and Danisheuskaya, it’s also a chance to grow the sport both have loved

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all their lives. Both of Krueger’s children performed during the day, and Danisheuskaya got the opportunity to show out for her community.

“It’s awesome to see all the people from the neighborhood come and show their support,” Danisheuskaya said. “It’s very exciting because when you travel abroad, you don’t really know that many people, but here, you’re with your friends and family who support you. And it’s nice to see that we can promote sports, as well — hopefully some kids will see what we do and decide to join in.”

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a new variable thrown into the mix: nightfall.

Normally, skiers take to the lake during the day, but during the finals of the big jump event at King of Darkness, they’re asked to do it all under lights brought in that help illuminate the ramp and buoys.

“Those buoys are actually very important for us to see — we have some place very close to where we’re going to land — because without those buoys, you just end up with no depth perception, and you might as well close your eyes and hope for the best without them,” Krueger said.

“Especially in Florida water — with this water being clean and clear — the light just absorbs and disappears into the abyss.

“We have a couple of tricks up our sleeves that we’ll help visually with the buoys,” he said.

“You might even see we’ll spray a little soap into the water as we drive by the landing area so it leaves a little foam wash — that white of the bubbles catches the light and helps us see for the landing.”

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Theodore “Mac” McCoy Keener III, 69, of Winter Garden, Florida, passed away Saturday, June 12, 2021.

He was born in Augusta, Georgia, on July 9, 1951, to the late William and Annette Keener.

He was married to Janelle Keener on April 8, 1977. The two met, married and gave birth to their beautiful twins while in nursing school.

He began his career as a golf pro but later decided to attend nursing school at the University of South Carolina Aiken. He began his 34-year nursing career in Augusta, Georgia, moving to Winter Garden in 1989. Ten years later, he began his home health agency, Care America HHC, which was one of the proudest moments of his career. He operated Care America HHC until his retirement in 2011. He considered those who worked with him at Care America part of an extended family.

Upon retirement, Mac focused his time on being PaPa to his grandchildren, who he picked

up from school every day and shared stories of their daily adventures. He really enjoyed his great-grands when they came to visit PaPa Mac. When you could make Mac really laugh, he would laugh so hard he cried, and his laugher was so infectious. He was a mischievous child, and stories of his childhood/teenage years are legendary in the family. If you could get him going, he would tell stories for hours.

Mac is preceded in death by his parents, William P. Keener and Annette Black Keener; and brother, John Keener.

Mac is survived by his loving wife of 34 years, Janelle Keener; children, Kelsey Arons (Mark), Brandalin Smith (Bruce) and Melissa Keener; grandchildren, Caitlyn Jones (Justin), Hayden Smith, Gavin Smith and Briana Keener; great-grandchildren, Jordan Jones, Jaclyn Jones; and his brothers and sisters, Richard Keener (Lois), Katherine Harris (Michael) and Elizabeth Persons.

In lieu of formal service, a Celebration of Life gathering is planned in Winter Garden at a later date.

MAVIS JEAN SAULS DIED SATURDAY, JUNE, 19, 2021.

Mrs. Mavis Jean Sauls, a resident of Echo, Alabama, died Tuesday, June 15, 2021, in Southeast Health Medical Center. She was 71 years old.

Funeral services for Mrs. Sauls were Saturday, June 19, 2021, in the chapel of Holman Funeral Home and Cremations in Ozark.

Interment followed in Mount Olive Cemetery, Holman Funeral Home of Ozark directing.

Mrs. Sauls was born Nov. 18, 1949, in Winter Garden, Florida, to the late Justice B. Linzey and Alpha Mae Hardy Linzey.

She had lived in Ocoee, Florida most of her life until moving to Echo in 2007.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Arnice Douglas Sauls; three brothers, Robert Linzey, Olen Linzey and Randol Linzey.

Survivors include two daughters, Angel Johnson (Tony) and April Sauls, all of Echo; grandchildren, Samantha Johnson, Casandra Johnson, Tabitha Florence, Ryan Johnson and Riley Bass; great-grandchildren, Emma Bevert, Robert Florence and Carson Florence; three sisters, Brenda Asbury, of Washington, D.C., Linda Parlour and Audrey “Kay” Keller, both of Echo; one brother, David Linzey, of Ozark. Several nieces and nephews also survive.

Condolences may be expressed at HolmanFuneralHome.com.

ELLA “ALICE” ADAMSON LANTERMAN DIED JUNE 17, 2021.

Ella “Alice” Adamson Lanterman, 71, entered heaven’s gates June 17 at 11:10 p.m. to reunite with Larry. Born April 14, 1950, in rural Ariton, Alabama, to Curtis and Exton Adamson. Alice lived in Winter Garden since she was 2 years old and spent her life loving this community and knowing everyone’s name.

Alice was preceded in death

by Larry, her beloved husband of 42 years, in 2012. Alice leaves behind her son, Joshua (Amy) Lanterman; daughter, Rebecca Lanterman (Jeremiah Bradford); and two grandchildren, her granddaughter, Skye Lanterman, and her grandson, Dominic Gaudious III. She is also survived by her sister-in-law in love, Ruth Ann Adamson; and numerous brothers and sisters in Christ, neighbors, aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews, and her beloved caregivers from Winter Garden Senior Home Care, who cherished her.

Alice’s courage and bravery through her battle with dementia shined through until the very end. Alice’s desire to help others never faded and expressed wanting to help others who are living through dementia. She wanted to bring hope not only to the people suffering from this disease, but family members with a loved one living this reality every day.

In Alice’s honor, a not-forprofit is being created “Alice’s Journey; The Reality of Dementia Immersion Experience” to educate, give hope and teach

people what it is like to live with this disease. In lieu of flowers we ask that you consider making a donation to Alice’s dream so that she may continue her gift of helping others understand an impossible situation. Donations can be made via Zelle to (321) 440-5888, “Alice’s Dream,” or a branch deposit at Chase Bank account number 753870242.

During the days when Alice was feeling lost, confused and unsure, her kindness, love for life and innate ability to bring joy to others continued and was undeniably profound in any

THURSDAY, JUNE 24, 2021

17

situation. Her life’s work was bringing others together to love, celebrate and create lifelong friendships. During her last days on earth that were spent in the home she and Larry built, under the care of VITAS Hospice, she was able to use her gift one last time. She brought people together from all across the country and from just down the street — friends and family who hadn’t seen one another in years.

She and Larry are smiling upon us at peace knowing they will now watch over us until we all join them in heaven. Alice will undoubtedly have a Coca-Cola waiting when we see her again.

Come join us for a Celebration of Life at 5 p.m. Friday, June 25, at First Baptist Church Winter Garden, where Larry and Alice married in 1969. All are welcome to a BBQ “Fellowship” at The Lanterman Home immediately following.

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THURSDAY, JUNE 24, 2021

West Orange Chamber of Commerce

Celebrates Business West Orange Chamber Ribbon Cutting Celebration at Winter Garden Smiles’Celebrates New Office!

Alessandra Quintela Photography

Congratulations to Winter GardentheSmiles WOCC Ambassadors celebrated ribbonon theircutting new office, located Quintela at 1317 Winter Garden of Alessandra Photography, locatedRd., at Suite 301 S. Street,Garden. in Oakland.

Vineland 110Tubb in Winter Winter Alessandra best and tells Garden Smiles offers GeneralyouandherPediatric Dentistry your through Ocoee, her lenses, all fromarea. a serves thestory Windermere, and Orlando perspective built upon her home culture, To learn more aboutlearned, Winter Garden Smiles the techniques the places she’s been visitaround www.wintergardensmiles.com the world, and the acknowledgment that being a mother is the best part of life.

To learn more or to book your session visit, www.aleqphoto.com

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West Orange Chamber of Commerce Welcomes West Orange Women’s Care WOCC Ambassadors celebrated the West Orange Women’s Care. Located in Ocoee, Dr. Shereen Oloufa, a leading boardcertified OB/GYN, provides high-quality, comprehensive, and compassionate healthcare for women as they navigate all phases of life. Recognizing the special healthcare needs of women throughout these various stages, their boutique women’s care center provides unique specialized services from gynecology and obstetrics to overall health and wellness.

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R.C. Stevens Construction Celebrates 95 Years!

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

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