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07.16.26 West Orange Times & Observer

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WEST ORANGE TIMES &

YOU YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.

Tax reform could silence Ocoee Music Fest

YOUR TOWN

APPLICATIONS OPEN FOR GRANT PROGRAM

Applications are being accepted for the 2026 Dr. Phillips Charities Legacy Microgrant Program.

This program will award 15 $5,000 grants to eligible nonprofits serving Orange and Osceola counties, with recipients recognized at the annual Dr. Phillips Charities Impact Awards in October.

Applications are open through Friday, Aug. 7.

The Legacy Microgrant Program reflects Dr. Phillips Charities’ commitment to investing in organizations that strengthen the community and create opportunities for Central Florida residents. Since launching, the program has awarded 30 microgrants totaling $150,000 to eligible local nonprofits with annual operating budgets of $2 million or less.

Grants are available to organizations working in arts and culture; children and youth; education; health; and social services. Priority is given to projects that reduce economic pressures on ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) and low-income families while creating lasting community impact.

For more information or to apply, visit drphillips.org/applyfor-grants-11.

ROCK ‘N REV OCOEE ANNOUNCES NEW HOURS

Rock ‘N Rev, an American music bar and grill located in Ocoee, has updated its business hours. Beginning Monday, July 13, the location no longer will open on Mondays.

“Don’t worry — we’re not slowing down!” Rock ‘N Rev officials said. “Our team will be using Mondays behind the scenes to create even more exciting, engaging and familyfriendly experiences for you to enjoy throughout the week.”

The bar and grill will remain open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Tuesdays through Thursdays, and 11 a.m. to midnight Fridays and Saturdays.

Officials also said while the location will be closed to the public on Mondays, celebrations, parties, private events and meetings still can be scheduled.

“Thank you for your continued support,” officials said.

NACHO AVERAGE OPENING IN W.G.

A new taco spot is headed to Winter Garden.

Tacos My Guey will be opening at 1025 S. Dillard St.

Although the grand opening date has yet to be announced, the restaurant posted on social media that the first 50 guests will enjoy a free meal.

Tacos My Guey

ARTISTS UNLEASHED

Liz Ramos John Pucci captured a moment of his dogs Murphy and Whiskey diving into a pup cup.

5FAST

1

Saucy by KFC to open at Flamingo Crossings

Saucy by KFC is making its way to Horizon West.

The KFC concept revolves around chicken tenders and a plethora of dipping sauces.

The location will feature menu items such as tender meals, chicken sandwiches, wraps, loaded french fries and beignets for dessert.  Sauces include Thai sweet ‘n spicy, jalapeño pesto ranch, Saucy’s sauce and smokey bacon ranch.  where PDQ previously resided in Flamingo Crossings Town Center at 2224 Western Way, Suite A, Winter Garden.

To see the menu, visit saucy.kfc. com.  An opening date has not been announced.

2

Orange County deputies transported to hospital for smoke inhalation

The Orange County Fire Rescue was called around 8:30 a.m.

Thursday, July 9, due to a house fire starting in the garage of a home at Snowberry Circle, Orlando, Dr. Phillips.

According to OCFR, the fire did not spread in the house. Firefighters were able to contain it; however, there was damage to the garage.

Two Orange County Sheriff’s Office deputies who were on scene assisting the firefighters get residents out of the home were later transported to the hospital for evaluation after inhaling smoke.  OCFR said three others were assessed but not transported to the hospital.

3

Frozen blueberries sold at Publix recalled Publix sent out an announcement Friday, July 3, recalling 10-ounce packages of GreenWise Organic IQF Blueberries.

There was one lot affected, with the code 60401 and best-by dates of Feb. 9, 2028.

Publix is advising customers to return or discard any frozen GreenWise blueberries sold in stores on or before Friday, July 3.

According to its announcement, no other lots are affected by this recall.

So far, there have been 12 reports of digestive illnesses relating to E. coli in patients that consumed the GreenWise blueberries.

An investigation currently is ongo-

4

North Lakewood Avenue under construction in Ocoee Drivers will experience delays on North Lakewood Avenue due to underground utility work that began Monday, July 13.

Construction for Phase I of the project will continue through the end of summer 2027, while Phase II work is expected to be completed through the end of summer 2028.

Traffic delays should be expected from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Mondays through Fridays until Friday, Aug. 7.

During the school year, delays can be expected from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Mondays through Fridays.

“We apologize for any inconvenience and appreciate your

media. “Our team is committed to restoring normal traffic flow as quickly and safely as possible each day.”

People can receive construction updated by texting LAKEWOOD to 333111.

5

Ocoee officers recognized for decades of service

The Ocoee Police Department recognized two employees for their years of service to the community.

Cpl. Jeremy Lewis was recognized for 30 years of service, and officer Brett Schacht was recognized for 20 years of services.

“Together, that’s 50 years of your commitment to keeping

Emergency care

that’s in the neighborhood, and on your side.

Have a plan and find a location. Fast emergency care starts with a plan. Scan the QR code to find an Orlando Health ER location near you, with a dedicated team when you need them the most.

KFC’s new concept will be located at 2224 Western Way, Suite A, Winter Garden.
Two Orange County Sheriff’s Office deputies were sent to the hospital to be evaluated after inhaling smoke during a house fire Thursday, July 9, in Dr. Phillips.
Courtesy photos

NEXT LEVEL

Level99, a new, hands-on, interactive entertainment venue for teens and adults now is open at Disney Springs.

Amassive, 50,000-squarefoot, two-story social gaming venue called Level99 now is open at Disney Springs, attracting thousands of visitors to the location weekly.

The venue is modern, with bright, neon lights and colorful walls with neon signs. The artistry throughout the venue is thoughtfully placed to immerse visitors as they step in a room to begin a new challenge.

Level99 now sits where Disney Quest and NBA Experience once were, bringing back interactive, hands-on experiences in a new, modern way.

“It’s totally unique,” Windermere resident Trish Mitchell said. “There’s nothing else like it.”

As a travel agent who specializes in Disney vacations, Mitchell knew she had to try it out to know whether to recommend it to her clients, but also, she was looking for something new to do with her family, so she gathered her family and visited the venue.

“We were really blown away by the whole thing,” she said. “It was so much fun for the family. Some of the challenges had us quite literally belly laughing.”

As a competitive family, the headto-head challenges were some of their favorites, she said.

But they also enjoyed the logic puzzle games where the family needed to come together to decipher clues before the six-minute timer was up.

“We also really enjoyed the Pirates Brig room,” Mitchell said. “There’s no other way to describe it except to say it’s hysterical.”

The Pirates Brig room is divided by a set of bars with a window cut out in the middle. Each player must get to the other side of the room by jumping through the window, but the catch is you cannot touch the sides of the window or bars at all.

Courtesy photo

The Lachmore family had so much fun. They can’t wait to go back.

IF YOU GO LEVEL99

1486 E. Buena Vista Drive, Lake Buena Vista, Disney Springs

HOURS: 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays; 11 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. Fridays; 10 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. Saturdays; and 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Sundays

COST: One-and-one-half-hour ticket costs $29.99 per adult Mondays through Fridays, $39.99 Saturdays and $35.99 Sundays.

Two-and-one-half-hour ticket costs $39.99 per adult Mondays through Fridays, $49.99 Saturdays and $45.99 Sundays

WEBSITE: level99.com

puzzles and beat these physical challenges and it really just had us laughing and teasing each other in the way that families do. … It’s not sitting in the dark at a movie or riding a roller coaster. You’re truly present and enjoying one another.”

The Lachmore family from Horizon West had a similar experience, walking away from the venue with exceeded expectations.

Anthony Lachmore said he and his family are big fans of escape rooms, ninja courses and quick puzzles.

“It seemed like something right up our alley,” he said.

When they stepped inside, they immediately were impressed with the sleek, colorful and funky designs on the walls. Their 6-year-old son, though, was immediately enticed by the large axes that swing from side to side while players try to walk across a balance beam without being touched.

While the venue is geared toward teens and adults, Lachmore was relieved to see his children have fun, as well. He thought they wouldn’t enjoy the experience, but he was wrong. They had a blast competing together and cheering for one another.

“It didn’t matter if we won or lost a room; it was a great time to just figure it out,” he said.

Their favorite room was the corn maze, where players have to avoid being abducted by aliens by dodging beams while activating touch points in the room.

“It was hilarious,” he said.

While aliens beat them, Lachmore said the laughs inside the room are the memories they’ll cherish the most.

Ocoee contemplates canceling ’26 Music Fest

In preparation of the possible implications of property tax reform, the Ocoee City Commission is considering not hosting the city’s annual Music Fest this year.

Mayor Rusty Johnson made the suggestion during commissioner comments at the Ocoee City Commission meeting Tuesday, July 7.

“With what’s going on with the state, what’s going on with the fire fees, I’ve asked the city to postpone it,” Johnson said. “We need to take a look at it and see what happens with the budget and not do it this year. … I think it’s time we hold back and use that money to help the citizens with the fire fee and everything like that.”

Johnson recommended the city host a music night once per month for two to three months in the fall instead of Music Fest so there still are opportunities for the community to gather and listen to music.

District 2 Commissioner Rosemary Wilsen and District 4 Commissioner George Oliver III agreed, stating with all the uncertainties when it comes to budgeting with taxes and fees, the city should pivot to a smaller event.

District 1 Commissioner Scott Kennedy said he would like to discuss the matter further during the commission’s budget workshop Wednesday, Aug. 5. He questioned whether there was a way to differentiate between Ocoee residents and others during the event to potentially charge tickets for those who live outside the city.

SLURPEES STALLED

The approval of an access easement agreement with Silvestri Investments of Florida, Inc. for a proposed 7-Eleven with a gas station and car wash on a 2-acre parcel within the Prairie Lake PUD failed after the Ocoee City Commission voted 2-2 on the matter.

District 3 Commissioner Richard Firstner was absent.

A tie vote resulted in the motion failing.  Oliver voted against approving the agreement because of a stoplight on the corner of Ocoee Vista Parkway and Clarke Road, and two deceleration lanes on Clarke Road not being on the site plan. He said not having the stoplight and deceleration lanes poses a threat to public safety.

Development Services Director Nick Lepp said the city and the developer, V3 Capital Group, still are discussing the off-site improvements, but the developer agreed to the signal light.

E-BIKE ORDINANCE PASSES

The commission unanimously approved an ordinance regarding micromobility vehicles.

IN OTHER NEWS

n The Ocoee City Commission unanimously approved the second reading of an ordinance to create and adopt new code provisions for the Master Capital Project and Service Assessment.

n Commissioners heard a first reading of an ordinance establishing procedural rules to challenge candidates to the City Commission.

n There was a first reading of an ordinance establishing an Emergency Medical Services Division and Emergency Medical Services Enterprise Fund. The ordinance would provide financial transparency, accountability and long-term sustainability for the city’s ambulance transport and emergency medical services operations.

n There was a first reading on an ordinance for the annexation and rezoning of 5068 Adair St. from Orange County citrus rural district to single-family dwelling district.

n The Ocoee City Commission approved the first amendment to the downtown master developer consulting services agreement with G3 Development.

n The Phase 2 single-source contract with Cover the Tees was approved to upgrade the driving range at Forest Lake Golf Club.

n The City Commission approved awarding Cacique Utilities LLC the Clarke Road Force Main Relocation Project in the amount of $676,195.

While using the micromobility devices on a sidewalk or shared-use pathway, the speed cannot exceed 10 mph, and users always should yield to the right-of-way pedestrians.  Helmets will be required for all users under age 16, and no stunt riding, wheelies or racing are allowed on public property.

WALMART SIGN ROLLED BACK

The commissioners unanimously denied a variance for the Walmart Neighborhood Market sign.

The neighborhood market is located at 10738 Clarcona Ocoee Road.

Mitchell said visiting Level99, which includes more than 60 games and challenges, was a one-of-a-kind experience, and she cannot wait to go back.

“It’s a bonding experience in a way,” she said. “You’re all working together as a team to solve these

“We were quite literally picking people up and handing them through the hole,” she said. “We just about collapsed laughing when my son accidentally dropped my oldest daughter right on her belly.”

“We will definitely be back, both for family nights and date nights,” he said.

For those planning to visit, Mitchell and Lachmore both said half of the fun is trying to figure out each puzzle, room and challenge, so avoid looking at spoilers online. They also recommended visiting in groups of three to four people, as some challenges require more hands and more brains.

General operating requirements under the amendment are in compliance with state law for operation of all devices under Chapter 316, Florida statutes; no person should use them in a reckless or unsafe manner; no device can carry more people than it’s designed for; users are required to provide an audible warning before they pass pedestrians on sidewalks or multi-use paths; and using the devices between sunset and sunrise requires a front white lamp, a red rear light and a real reflector.

The applicant sought to have a sign height of 10 feet by 4 inches in lieu of the maximum 3 feet for the north sign elevation; a sign height of 7 feet by 9 inches instead of the maximum 3 feet for the east sign elevation; a sign area of 459.7 square feet instead of the maximum 100 square feet for the north sign elevation; a sign area of 159.8 square feet in lieu of the maximum 100 square feet for the east sign elevation; a sign height of 1 foot by 6 inches in lieu of the maximum six inches for the north canopy; and a sign width of 22 feet in lieu of the maximum 21 feet for the north canopy.

“It’s super frustrating to me personally, having been a member of Planning & Zoning, that we spend months a year writing land development code (and) designing standards,” Kennedy said. “There’s absolutely no justification for a variance here at all.”

LETICIA SILVA STAFF WRITER
Photo by Leticia Silva

City unveils ‘Dog Days of Summer’

When Anya Kaleshefski Cox’s husband was diagnosed with throat cancer, she sought peace in painting.

The movements of the brush, the colors and the ability to focus on making the personalities of the dogs she paints come to life on canvas has helped her keep her sanity.

Kaleshefski Cox’s dog, Tooka, always ends up in the pool at their home, so she thought it would be cute to paint him in the pool, especially with him wearing his sunglasses.

Tooka has been a crucial supporter for Kaleshefski Cox as he has been there for her while her husband, Tim Cox, has been going through treatment as well as in the last two years of her taking care of her father, Ralph Kaleshefski, who died in 2022.

“He’s saved me,” Kaleshefski Cox said of Tooka. “That and painting.”

With Tooka by her side, Kaleshefski Cox proudly stayed by her painting of him in a pool as it hung on the wall across from the elevators in Winter Garden City Hall during the launch paw-ty of the “Dog Days of Summer” art exhibit Friday, July 10.  The exhibit will be on display through Friday, July 31.

ULTI-MUTT EXHIBIT

Every two years, the city of Winter Garden plans and curates its own art exhibit as part of its Art in Public Places Gallery, where the city conducts its own artist call for a specific theme.

While walking into work one-andone-half years ago, Donna Corbus, the sustainability and community liaison for the city, saw people walking four dogs, which sparked an idea.  Dog days of summer.

It became the theme for this year’s art exhibit, but to take it a step further, hosting a launch party that allowed dogs into Winter Garden City Hall to join their artists for the exhibit.  City hall was filled with artists and their furry friends as well as friends and family to take in the art from people of all ages and all walks of life.

While the humans enjoyed eating hot dogs, the doggos slurped up ice cream, bringing smiles and laughter.  Outside, dogs were walking and splashing around the splash pads, with a lifeguard carefully watching over them. There also was a photo opportunity for the pet owners and their furry friends.

Corbus and her team received more than 100 submissions, with some artists submitting as many as

IF YOU GO

‘DOG DAYS OF SUMMER’

WHEN: Through Friday, July 31

WHERE: Winter Garden City Hall

Art in Public Places Gallery,

300 W. Plant St., Winter Garden

WEBSITE: bit.ly/4ffFfvV

THE PAW-CASSOS

n Jonathan Burket: Golden Lake Leap

n Kathie Camara: Colorful Dog

n Angelo Cane: Make a Wish Meatball

n Anya Kaleshefski Cox: Reflections of a Good Boy

n Dasie Cruz: Puppy Love

n Erika Darling: Sunkissed

n Siena Dittmer: It’s Play Time!

n Joyce Fielder: Sailor

n Carolina De Freitas: Curious Vanilla Dog

n Karen Hesselbach: Rescued

n Pat Howard: Louie

n Sharon Jefferies: Canis Major

n Rob Kaz: Bathtime

n Taylor-Kay Kirkpatrick: Bug

n Sheila Kress: White

n Breanna Matthews: Wild Dog

n Linda Metzger: Gone Fishing

n Charlott Neal: Bruno

n Valerie Novick: Sun’s out, Tongue’s Out

n Michelle Page: German Shepherd

n David Price: Lucky Under the Sun

n John Pucci: Sharing a Pup Cup

n Will Redd: Time Out Wilson

n Heidi Savage: Birdie #1

n Marisol Segovia: GIRL WITH DOG

n Elisabeth Smith: Feeling Topsy Turvy

n Deena Strauss: Kel the Border Collie

n Reed Walker: Rainbow Retriever

n Meilah Wimbush: Cleopatra Invites Meatball to Play

n Ameila Wolf: Big Breakfast

three pieces of work. She said the city typically receives 30, the number presented in the “Dog Days of Summer” exhibit. Corbus asked the judges to select a wide range of ages and abilities, from amateur artists to professionals, to be reflective of the community.

Anyone who wasn’t accepted in the exhibit could bring a 4-by-6-inch or smaller photo of their dog to have on the “Dogs of Winter Garden” board.

“I’m really glad Winter Garden is embracing art,” Kaleshefski Cox said.

“It’s really important for everybody, kids as well, to be involved. It’s the only thing that’s left of the culture, the only remains we have of anything of anybody that came before us.

… And by viewing nice things, it’s an experience. It’s not just visual, but it’s the story that the photograph or acrylic tells you. It’s how it makes you feel. It’s an image that speaks volumes without words.”

ART TELLS A STORY

Every piece of art in the “Dog Days of Summer” exhibit tells a story, whether it’s capturing the personality of a beloved pet or capturing a moment with their loyal companions.

Every morning, 24-year-old Amelia Wolf wakes up and heads to the kitchen for breakfast with her black Labrador, Tucker, close behind. They enjoy breakfast together before Wolf goes on with the rest of her day.

Those mornings together inspired Wolf to create “Big Breakfast,” her ink perspective piece of Tucker in the kitchen waiting to be fed.

Wolf has been attending Seminole State College and the University of Central Florida to major in visual arts management. She has experience working with ink, watercolor, colored pencil and more.

She likes being able to add personal elements, such as Tucker, to her work. She brought to life his hunger and excitement for breakfast.

On another wall in the exhibit, 14-year-old Dasie Cruz has her painting of her dog, Mochi.  Cruz always has loved art and has worked with clay, sold earrings she made out of clay and has continued learning more about her passion as she’s attended classes at Montverde Academy.

One of her projects at Mont verde was to focus on an animal, so she worked hard to capture Mochi’s playful-yet-sometimes-lazy per sonality, the pup who loves to cuddle and constantly is sticking his tongue out.

For John Pucci, his artwork was inspired by a moment in the park.

He retrieved pup cups for his dogs, Murphy and Whiskey, and took in the moment as they dove into the cups. He knew instantly he had to paint

the moment. He appreciated the dogs’ facial expressions and thought the moment captured their friendly nature.

Pucci said he was proud of how the artwork came out, with his ability to capture the texture of their coats with a new medium he was trying, gouache, which is an opaque watermedium paint that allows the artist to layer light colors over dark ones.

CREATIVE EXPRESSION

The passion for art can be sparked at any point in someone’s life.

For some such as Cruz, the art bug bit when she was little. For others such as Pucci, the dive into art came with retirement. And for some such as Kaleshefski Cox, the artists were born into it.

Kaleshefski Cox’s parents were professional artists. Ralph Kaleshefski was an artist at Disney and helped with creating Epcot and Tokyo Disneyland while her mother, Martha

Rochester, was an art teacher at Maxey Elementary School. Kaleshefski Cox created the art history course at Lakeview Middle School.

“I’ve always appreciated art,” she said. “I grew up in an art environment, and I’ve just really kind of just started picking up painting. My mom was a painter, my dad was a sculptor. It’s in my blood, you could say.”

Many artists said they appreciate the ability to express themselves creatively in their work, capturing emotions and telling a story. While working on art, they find it’s their time to be calm and at peace, they appreciate the learning process, with some pieces meeting their standards and others not quite being what they expected.

For many, the “Dog Days of Summer” exhibit was an opportunity to combine their love for art with their love of animals.

Kathie Camara typically creates portraits and seascapes and after someone offered her a kiln, she explored art through glass. The exhibit was the time for her to present her glass art of Waffles, a dog, with pride. She paints on the glass, being able to play with the colors and glass.

Most important, the artists relish the reactions from people viewing their work, especially those who commission the piece or are gifted it.  The purpose behind the art becomes simple: make others happy.

Design

lramos@OrangeObserver.com

Historian / Amy Quesinberry Price, amyqhistory@OrangeObserver.com

Staff Writer / Megan Bruinsma, mbruinsma@OrangeObserver.com

Staff Writer / Leticia Silva, lsilva@OrangeObserver.com

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Multimedia Advertising Executive / Iggy Collazo, iggy@OrangeObserver.com

Graphic Designer / Sarah Santiago, ssantiago@OrangeObserver.com

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

(USPS# 687-120)

WEST ORANGE

Anya Kaleshefski Cox said her dog, Tooka, has been a crucial member of her family.
Photos by Liz Ramos
Dasie Cruz, 14, painted her dog, Mochi, working to capture Mochi’s personality and energy.

Winter Garden commission considers business tax increase

The City Commission approved the first reading of an ordinance that would increase the local business tax rates by 5%.

MANAGING EDITOR

The Winter Garden City Commission unanimously approved a first reading of an ordinance that would increase all existing local business tax rates by 5%.

The ordinance also updates the city’s local business tax schedule, revising the “procedural timeline for future local business tax adjustments by changing the reporting, ordinance adoption and effective dates to better align with the city’s budget and administrative processes,” Planning Director Kelly Carson said.

“We have not increased these fees in a very, very long time,” she said.

“This ordinance would ensure the city maintains a fair and current local business tax structure that keeps pace with inflation.”

According to agenda documents on the ordinance, the ordinance will allow the city to have a “predictable process for periodic adjustments and generating revenue to fund services that benefit businesses and residents alike,” which would promote the “public health, safety, morals and general welfare while preserving the city’s long-term fiscal sustainability.”

A second reading of the ordinance will take place at the meeting Thursday, July 23.

BUDGET AMENDMENTS

The Winter Garden City Commission unanimously approved the first reading of an ordinance amending the city’s Fiscal Year 2025-26 budget to allow for reallocations.

City Finance Director Laura Zielonka said the city is reallocating funds in the General Fund.

Funds are being reallocated for

IN OTHER NEWS

n The Winter Garden City Commission unanimously approved a piggyback contract from the city of Orlando with Waste Management Inc. of Florida.

n The commission unanimously approved a site plan for a gymnasium with a walking track and parking for the new Boys and Girls Club June Family Branch, located at 459 Ninth St.

the Garden Theatre; the purchase of firearms already approved by the City Commission; paving for the alley between North Lakeview Avenue and North Boyd Street; Tucker Ranch; and the utility operating fund.

The total in reallocations is $3,498,494.

A second reading of the ordinance will take place at the meeting Thursday, July 23.

TEMPORARY CONSTRUCTION

YARD LICENSE AGREEMENT

Commissioners unanimously approved a temporary construction yard license agreement to allow WGH Property LLC to use parking spaces on West Plant Street directly in front of the new hotel at 8 N. Highland Ave. while it is being constructed.

The owner also requested permission to use the grass portion of the property at 695 W. Plant St. to stage construction material, as well as six parking spaces at the Winter Garden Police Department parking lot for passenger vehicles during construction.

The agreement will allow the owner to use these properties for construction activities, provide protection for the city and require the owner to restore any damage.

The commission also approved a street closure from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. Monday, July 20, between Plant and Bay streets along South Highland Avenue for the groundbreaking of the hotel.

DIRECTORY

BAPTIST

First Baptist Church

Pastor Jeremy Woods

125 E. Plant St, Winter Garden (407) 656-2352

Sundays: 8:00 AM and 9:30 AM Traditional 11:00 AM Contemporary

Starke Lake Baptist Church

Pastor Jeff Pritchard PO Box 520 611 W Ave., Ocoee (407) 656-2351

www.StarkeLakeBaptist.org

Victory Baptist Church & Christian Academy 1601 A.D. Mims Rd, Ocoee FL 34761 (407) 656-3097

www.VBCOCOEE.com

Sunday: 11AM & 6 PM Wednesday: 7 PM

METHODIST

First United Methodist www.fumcwg.org 125 N. Lakeview Ave., Winter Garden (407) 656-1135

Services: 9 AM Traditional 10:45 AM Contemporary Also viewable on YouTube

Bargaining continues between OCPS, union

Although the new school year is less than one month away, a new contract between Orange County Public Schools and the Orange County Classroom Teachers Association remains elusive.

The district and teachers union this year have remained at odds over salary increases and health care costs.

The two sides met Thursday, July 9, and Friday, July 10, in a special magistrate hearing. At the hearing, OCPS officials presented its latest proposal, released July 1. This proposal includes a salary increase of 2.65% for Highly Effective and 1.98% for Effective teachers based on performance; TSIA salary increases for eligible teachers with 10-plus years of publicschool teaching experience in Florida; similar compensation enhancements to about 1,818 additional instructional employees, including media specialists; an employee-only zero-cost premium health care plan option; a $750 one-time supplement if an agreement is reached by July 22; and a $4,000 recurring salary increase and a $4,000 one-time supplement for eligible current speech-language pathologists.

The proposal totals more than $43 million in compensation investments, including benefits, district officials said.

However, OCCTA officials said the salary increases aren’t enough and health care costs are not unsustainable.

Under the district’s new hybrid insurance proposal, OCPS teachers’ deductibles would increase from $400 to $3,000. For a family, it would increase from $800 to $6,000. OCCTA officials proposed to reduce this increase to $800 and $1,600, respectively.

In total, including premium and deductibles, it would cost around $22,988 for a family to be insured under OCPS’ hybrid plan, OCCTA officials said.

“What is the use of health insurance if educators avoid care because they can’t afford to use it?” OCCTA President Clinton McCracken said. “Our teachers love serving students in Orange County — they chose this profession because they believe in the promise of public school. But too many are leaving because they can’t afford to stay any longer.”

With the increase in deductibles and premiums, McCracken said teachers have no choice but to leave the profession.

“Educators shouldn’t have to choose between their paycheck and their health,” he said. “Orange County deserves schools that attract and retain great educators, (and) that starts with fair pay and affordable health care.”

OCPS Superintendent Dr. Maria Vazquez said Florida’s health care costs are experiencing some of the fastest

OCCTA: DISNEY LAWSUIT IMPACTS OCPS TEACHERS, STAFF, STUDENTS

OCPS said a large factor in its proposal includes the Walt Disney World lawsuit against Orange County for property-tax litigation.

As a result, OCPS has reserved $119 million for legal settlements, if necessary.

“That’s $119 million that can’t be invested in our students, our teachers or our classrooms,” OCCTA President Clinton McCracken said. “Disney needs to settle these lawsuits for less or drop them altogether.”

If Walt Disney World drops the lawsuit or the settlement totals less than $119 million, the money then could be allocated to increase teachers’ salaries.

increases in the country, and while the district has invested hundreds of millions of dollars to offset rising health care costs, it simply is no longer sustainable. She said without an agreement, the district could be required to allocate nearly $20 million per month to maintain the current health care plan.

In response to the proposed salary increases, the OCCTA is asking for a 3% raise for effective teachers and a 4% raise for highly effective ones.

In total, OCCTA proposed counteroffer totals $131.7 million — more than triple the cost of OCPS’ latest proposal.

“The district reaffirmed its July 1 proposal, which it believes represents the strongest compensation package it can responsibly sustain while maintaining the long-term financial stability necessary to continue investing in competitive salaries, affordable health care and the educational programs that support student success,” OCPS officials said.

To help offset the rising health care costs, OCPS will make an annual contribution of $11,611 per employee, an increase from $10,555.

With a deadline of Wednesday, July 22, OCCTA and OCPS must move quickly to find an agreement to avoid having the district allocate up to $20 million per month just to maintain its current health care plan. Ultimately, however, it’s the Orange County School Board that will make a decision regarding negotiations.

“They need to demand answers,” McCracken said. “They need to stand with our teachers, not bureaucracy.”

The special magistrate will review the testimonies and evidence both sides presented before issuing its findings, facts and recommendations to the School Board.

Ahome in the Golden Oak community in Southwest Orange topped all West Orange-area residential real-estate transactions from June 22 to 28.

The home at 10075 Symphony Grove Drive, Orlando, sold June 22, for $5,595,000. Built in 2020, it has four bedrooms, fourand-one-half baths and 2,836 square feet. Days on market: Two. The sellers were represented by Ken Pozek, Real Broker LLC.

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

DR. PHILLIPS

HIDDEN SPRINGS

The home at 4904 Caspian Court, Orlando, sold June 26, for $630,000. Built in 1982, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,076 square feet. Days on market: Seven.

ORANGE BAY

The home at 8328 Crosswicks Drive, Orlando, sold June 26, for $632,000. Built in 1983, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,697 square feet of living area. Days on market: 23.

PHILLIPS GROVE

The home at 7797 Wandering Way, Orlando, sold June 23, for $1,675,000. Built in 2019, it has six bedrooms, four baths, two half-baths and 4,544 square feet of living area. Days on market: Five.

The home at 8077 Leaf Grove Circle, Orlando, sold June 26, for $1,480,000. Built in 2023, it has six bedrooms, three baths, two half-baths and 4,558 square feet of living area. Days on market: 204.

SAND LAKE HILLS

The home at 8208 Banyan Blvd., Orlando, sold June 23, for $520,000. Built in 1979, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 1,970 square feet of living area. Days on market: 112.

SAND LAKE POINT

The home at 7741 Pointview Circle, Orlando, sold June 25, for $452,400. Built in 1988, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,051 square feet. Days on market: 14.

TOREY PINES

The home at 8719 Summerville Place, Orlando, sold June 26, for $950,000. Built in 1994, it has four bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 3,808 square feet. Days on market: 124.

VIZCAYA HEIGHTS

The condo at 8755 The Esplanade, No. 120, Orlando, sold June 26, for $720,000. Built in 2005, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 3,000 square feet. Days on market: 19.

HORIZON WEST

AVALON WOODS

The home at 6523 Shore Juniper St., Winter Garden, sold June 26, for $1,054,209. Built in 2026, it has six bedrooms, four baths and 4,222 square feet.

The home at 6517 Shore Juniper St., Winter Garden, sold June 25, for $861,382. Built in 2026, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,879 square feet.

DEL WEBB OASIS

The home at 15563 Orchid Rose Court, Winter Garden, sold June 25, for $790,000. Built in 2026, it has three bedrooms, threeand-one-half baths and 2,808 square feet of living area. Days on market: Five.

HAMLIN MEADOWS

The home at 17055 Haggerty Hollow Drive, Winter Garden, sold June 24, for $550,683. Built in 2026, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,102 square feet. Days on market: 48.

HAMLIN RESERVE

The home at 6166 Hamlin Reserve Blvd., Winter Garden, sold June 22, for $640,000. Built in 2018, it has four bedrooms, two-andone-half baths and 2,818 square feet of living area. Days on market: 51.

HARVEST AT OVATION

The home at 14748 Field Daisy Drive, Winter Garden, sold June 23, for $600,000. Built in 2026, it has four bedrooms, four-andone-half baths and 2,149 square feet of living area. Days on market: 30.

The home at 14740 Field Daisy Drive, Winter Garden, sold June 25, for $530,000. Built in 2026, it has three bedrooms, two-andone-half baths and 1,992 square feet. Days on market: 41.

HAWKSMOOR

The home at 16126 Parkwyn St., Winter Garden, sold June 24, for $574,600. Built in 2021, it has four bedrooms, theee baths and 2,372 square feet. Days on market: 63.

HIGHLANDS AT SUMMERLAKE GROVES

The home at 15734 Sweet Lemon Way, Winter Garden, sold June 26, for $950,000. Built in 2020, it has five bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths and 3,635 square feet. Days on market: 15.

LAKE SAWYER SOUTH

The townhouse at 7719 Anselmo Lane, Windermere, sold June 22, for $375,000. Built in 2008, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 1,644 square feet. Days on market: 38.

LAKESHORE PRESERVE

The home at 15606 Shorebird Lane, Winter Garden, sold June 25, for $1,545,000. Built in 2020, it has five bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths and 4,300 square feet. Days on market: 159.

LAKESIDE AT LAKES OF WINDERMERE

The condo at 8180 Boat Hook Loop, No. 108/301, Windermere, sold June 25, for $315,000. Built in 2006, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,442 square feet. Days on market: 144.

OASIS COVE II

The condo at 14368 Desert Haven St., No. 4106, Windermere, sold June 22, for $360,000. Built in 2013, it has three bedrooms, twoand-one-half baths and 1,840 square feet of living area. Days on market: 38.

OVERLOOK 2 AT HAMLIN

The home at 15196 Newtonia St., Winter Garden, sold June 25, for $615,000. Built in 2018, it has three bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 2,326 square feet. Days on market: 55.

PALMS AT WINDERMERE

The home at 14383 Crest Palm Ave., Windermere, sold June 26, for $1,129,990. Built in 2026, it has six bedrooms, four baths and 3,550 square feet. Days on market: 107.

PARKVIEW AT HAMLIN

The townhouse at 15044 Groveside Road, Winter Garden, sold June 23, for $488,430. Built in 2025, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 1,846 square feet. Days on market: 90.

ROYAL RANCH ESTATES

The home at 8704 Benoit Ave., Orlando, sold June 22, for $1,500,000. Built in 1990, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,810 square feet. Days on market: 51.

SILVERLEAF

The home at 16627 Silver Brook Way, Winter Garden, sold June 22, for $805,260. Built in 2026, it has five bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 2,656 square feet of living area.

SILVERLEAF OAKS

The home at 16323 Bright Leaf Road, Winter Garden, sold June 25, for $985,000. Built in 2026, it has five bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths and 3,676 square feet. Days on market: 13.

SUMMERLAKE

The home at 15025 Pigeon Plum Lane, Winter Garden, sold June 22, for $596,000. Built in 2016, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,605 square feet. Days on market: Three.

The home at 14834 Bahama Swallow Blvd., Winter Garden, sold June 22, for $520,000. Built in 2014, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,049 square feet. Days on market: 40.

SUMMERLAKE RESERVE

The home at 9414 Emerald Berry Drive, Winter Garden, sold June 23, for $840,000. Built in 2024, it has four bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 2,921 square feet. Days on market: 156.

SUMMERPORT

The home at 4819 Indian Deer Road, Windermere, sold June 23, for $675,000. Built in 2005, it has four bedrooms, four baths and 3,049 square feet. Days on market: Eight.

WATERLEIGH

The home at 11205 Hollow Bay Drive, Winter Garden, sold June 23, for $895,000. Built in 2025, it has four bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 3,327 square feet. Days on market: 52.

The home at 11145 Hollow Bay Drive, Winter Garden, sold June 25, for $820,000. Built in 2025, it has four bedrooms, three baths, two half-baths and 3,327 square feet. Days on market: 170.

The home at 18047 Cider Mill Lane, Winter Garden, sold June 26, for $790,000. Built in 2025, it has four bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 3,327 square feet. Days on market: Two.

The home at 11223 Hollow Bay Drive, Winter Garden, sold June 24, for $765,000. Built in 2025, it has five bedrooms, four baths and 2,866 square feet. Days on market: 110.

The home at 18053 Cider Mill Lane, Winter Garden, sold June 22, for $735,000. Built in 2025, it has five bedrooms, four baths and 2,866 square feet. Days on market: 19.

The home at 10187 Merrymeeting Bay Drive, Winter Garden, sold June 23, for $679,000. Built in 2020, it has four bedrooms, threeand-one-half baths and 2,840 square feet. Days on market: 13.

The home at 9723 Lost Creek Drive, Winter Garden, sold June 23, for $640,000. Built in 2021, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,117 square feet. Days on market: 175.

The home at 11858 Shine View Lane, Winter Garden, sold June 22, for $534,990. Built in 2025, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 2,027 square feet. Days on market: 164.

The townhouse at 18191 Cider Mill Lane, Winter Garden, sold June 22, for $455,000. Built in 2025, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 1,817 square feet. Days on market: 25.

The townhouse at 16564 Barbours Creek Way, Winter Garden, sold June 26, for $455,000. Built in 2025, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,817 square feet. Days on market: Four.

The townhouse at 16594 Barbours Creek Way, Winter Garden, sold June 25, for $440,000. Built in 2025, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,817 square feet.

The townhouse at 16563 Barbours Creek Way, Winter Garden, sold June 22, for $414,990. Built in 2025, it has three bedrooms, two-andone-half baths and 1,567 square feet. Days on market: 44.

The townhouse at 18197 Cider Mill Lane, Winter Garden, sold June 25, for $394,990. Built in 2026, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 1,567 square feet.

WINDERMERE ISLE

The home at 8409 Vivaro Isle Way, Windermere,

Courtesy photo
The Sonatina is a single-story Spanish-inspired cottage located inside Walt Disney World’s Golden Oak neighborhood. The sellers were represented by Ken Pozek, Real Broker LLC.

OAKLAND

HULL ISLAND

The home at 624 Hull Island Drive, Oakland, sold June 23, for $849,000. Built in 1983, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,708 square feet. Days on market: 186.

LONGLEAF AT OAKLAND

The townhouse at 2222 Gopher Tortoise Terrace, Oakland, sold June 23, for $415,000. Built in 2020, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 1,809 square feet. Days on market: 71.

OCOEE

ADMIRAL POINTE

The home at 774 Lancer Circle, Ocoee, sold June 23, for $425,000. Built in 1998, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,298 square feet. Days on market: 122.

ARDEN PARK NORTH

The home at 1834 Southern Red Oak Court, Ocoee, sold June 22, for $710,000. Built in 2020, it has five bedrooms, three baths and 3,795 square feet of living area. Days on market: Seven.

The home at 2850 Alder Berry Blvd., Ocoee, sold June 24, for $420,000. Built in 2021, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,870 square feet. Days on market: 102.

ARDEN PARK SOUTH

The home at 2541 Red Berry Way, Ocoee, sold June 26, for $665,000. Built in 2015, it has five bedrooms, three baths and 3,654 square feet. Days on market: 47.

The home at 1558 Terra Verde Way, Ocoee, sold June 22, for $490,000. Built in 2015, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,564 square feet. Days on market: 156.

FOREST TRAILS

The home at 2196 Laurel Blossom Circle, Ocoee, sold June 26, for $435,000. Built in 2006, it has five bedrooms, four baths and 3,306 square feet. Days on market: 170.

HARBOUR HIGHLANDS

The home at 507 Bernadino Drive, Ocoee, sold June 22, for $520,000. Built in 1989, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,205 square feet. Days on market: Four.

HILLCREST HEIGHTS

The home at 1012 E. Silver Star Road, Ocoee, sold June 22, for $369,999. Built in 2021, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,389 square feet of living area. Days on market: 41.

LAKEWOOD HILLS

The home at 904 Hawaii Drive, Ocoee, sold June 24, for $350,000. Built in 1962, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 1,955 square feet. Days on market: 19.

MAGNOLIA RESERVE

The townhouse at 2445 Magnolia Reserve Road, Ocoee, sold June 23, for $390,455. Built in 2026, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 1,752 square feet of living area. Days on market: Three.

The townhouse at 2425 Magnolia Reserve Road, Ocoee, sold June 23, for $387,389. Built in 2026, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 1,752 square feet. Days on market: 24.

The townhouse at 2429 Magnolia Reserve Road, Ocoee, sold June 25, for $383,999. Built in 2026, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 1,935 square feet of living area. Days on market: 34.

The townhouse at 2437 Magnolia Reserve Road, Ocoee, sold June 24, for $379,999. Built in 2026, it has three bedrooms, two-andone-half baths and 1,935 square feet. Days on market: 36.

MEADOW RIDGE

The home at 2811 Maria Isabel Ave., Ocoee, sold June 25, for $805,000. Built in 2012, it has four bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 3,611 square feet. Days on market: 20.

SAWMILL

The home at 5148 Timber Ridge Trail, Ocoee, sold June 22, for $410,000. Built in 1990, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 1,750 square feet of living area. Days on market: 11.

The home at 5021 Log Wagon Road, Ocoee, sold June 22, for $398,000. Built in 1990, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,744 square feet. Days on market: 32.

The home at 5002 Sawdust Circle, Ocoee, sold June 26, for $389,900. Built in 1991, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,855 square feet of living area. Days on market: Three.

SILVER GLEN

The home at 1311 Century Oak Drive, Ocoee, sold June 23, for $370,000. Built in 1995, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,352 square feet of living area. Days on market: 13.

TWIN LAKES MANOR

The home at 1212 Russell Drive, Ocoee, sold June 23, for $390,000. Built in 1982, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,815 square feet of living area. Days on market: Seven.

WESTYN BAY

The home at 2469 Orsota Circle, Ocoee, sold June 22, for $636,800. Built in 2005, it has five bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths and 3,318 square feet. Days on market: 12.

WILLOWS ON LAKE

The home at 528 Herring Gull Court, Ocoee, sold June 23, for $487,500. Built in 2003, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,561 square feet. Days on market: 219.

WIND STONE AT OCOEE

The home at 2062 El Marra Drive, Ocoee, sold June 26, for $445,000. Built in 2006, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,582 square feet. Days on market: 25.

WYNWOOD

The home at 2103 Ashwood Bluff Drive, Ocoee, sold June 24, for $572,990. Built in 2025, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,108 square feet of living area. Days on market: 30.

The home at 3278 Spineywood Drive, Ocoee, sold June 25, for $549,485. Built in 2025, it has five bedrooms, three baths and 2,601 square feet of living area. Days on market: 16.

The home at 3274 Spineywood Drive, Ocoee, sold June 25, for $543,485. Built in 2025, it has five bedrooms, three baths and 2,601 square feet of living area. Days on market: 32.

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The home at 3282 Spineywood Drive, Ocoee, sold June 22, for $466,990. Built in 2025, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,672 square feet. Days on market: 30.

The home at 3255 Spineywood Drive, Ocoee, sold June 23, for $447,990. Built in 2025, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,504 square feet. Days on market: 26.

SOUTHWEST ORANGE

ARLINGTON BAY

The home at 9030 Edenshire Circle, Orlando, sold June 22, for $536,250. Built in 2006, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,317 square feet. Days on market: Five.

GRANDVIEW ISLES

The townhouse at 10206 Fallsgrove St., Orlando, sold June 26, for $412,500. Built in 2008, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,491 square feet. Days on market: 17.

ROYAL CYPRESS PRESERVE

The home at 10414 Royal Cypress Way, Orlando, sold June 25, for $1,150,000. Built in 2018, it has five bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths and 3,954 square feet. Days on market: 41.

WEST ORANGE WINDERMERE POINTE

The home at 13048 Lake Roper Court, Windermere, sold June 23, for $1,890,000. Built in 2002, it has five bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 4,130 square feet. Days on market: 207.

WINDERMERE

BUTLER BAY

The home at 2804 Marquesas Court sold June 23, for $1,999,000. Built in 1983, it has five bedrooms, four baths and 3,649 square feet. Days on market: Three.

DAVIS SHORES

The home at 84 Oakdale St., Windermere, sold June 23, for $1,750,000. Built in 2020, it has four bedrooms, four baths, two half-baths and 3,519 square feet. Days on market: 126.

KEENE’S POINTE

The home at 8340 Lake Burden Circle, Windermere, sold June 24, for $3,250,000. Built in 2008, it has six bedrooms, five baths, two halfbaths and 6,848 square feet. Days on market: Seven.

The home at 5926 Blakeford Drive sold June 24, for $2,000,000. Built in 1999, it has four bedrooms, four baths and 3,906 square feet. Days on market: 40.

The home at 11419 Camden Park Drive, Windermere, sold June 22, for $1,135,000. Built in 2005, it has five bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths and 3,686 square feet. Days on market: 45.

RESERVE AT BELMERE

The home at 1430 Glenwick Drive, Windermere, sold June 24, for $720,000. Built in 2002, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,606 square feet of living area. Days on market: 18.

WINDERMERE

The home at 11303 Windermere Road, Windermere, sold June 22, for $2,550,000. Built in 2026, it has five bedrooms, four baths, two half-baths and 5,277 square feet. Days on market: 36.

WINTER GARDEN COVINGTON CHASE

The home at 630 Grassy Stone Drive, Winter Garden, sold June 22, for $536,000. Built in 2013, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,210 square feet. Days on market: One.

ESTATES AT LAKEVIEW PRESERVE

The home at 3284 Windbag Court, Winter Garden, Lake County, sold June 22, for $724,100. Built in 2024, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,374 square feet. Days on market: Five.

HICKORY HAMMOCK

The home at 15200 Lake Claire Overlook Drive, Winter Garden, sold June 23, for $1,275,000. Built in 2016, it has five bedrooms, four baths and 3,904 square feet. Days on market: 17.

JOHNS LAKE POINTE

The home at 503 Minnow Creek Court, Winter Garden, sold June 23, for $645,000. Built in 2007, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,663 square feet. Days on market: 12.

LAKEVIEW PRESERVE

The home at 3276 Sailing Pier Ave., Winter Garden, Lake County sold June 22, for $515,000. Built in 2020, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,990 square feet. Days on market: 21.

MAGNOLIA WOOD

The home at 1550 Coluso Drive, Winter Garden, sold June 24, for $524,999. Built in 1985, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,997 square feet. Days on market: Two.

OAKLAND PARK

The home at 936 Kylee Alley, Winter Garden, sold June 24, for $675,000. Built in 2022, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,772 square feet. Days on market: 25.

WATERSIDE AT JOHNS LAKE

The home at 17090 Harbor Oak Parkway, Winter Garden, sold June 25, for $520,000. Built in 2019, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 2,148 square feet. Days on market: 43.

WINTERMERE POINTE

The home at 2478 Prairie View Drive, Winter Garden, sold June 22, for $530,000. Built in 2002, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,766 square feet. Days on market: 18.

Desiree Lugo
The home at 8340 Lake Burden Circle, Windermere, sold June 24, for $3,250,000. It was the largest transaction in Windermere from June 22 to 28. The sellers were represented by Jill Davis, Charles Rutenberg Realty Orlando.
Courtesy photo
The home at 15200 Lake Claire Overlook Drive, Winter Garden, sold June 23, for $1,275,000. It was the largest transaction in Winter Garden from June 22 to 28. The sellers were represented by Denise Gregorie, Clock Tower Realty.

SPORTS

HIGH 5

1

Six years after graduating from Windermere High School, basketball player AJ Armstrong Jr. signed with the Orlando Magic for its NBA Summer League team Friday, July 10, to Sunday, July 19. The Class of 2020 alumnus averaged 7.5 points per game, 1.3 assists and 3.6 rebounds his senior year as a Wolverine. He went on to play at Odessa College from 2022 to 2023, then Texas Permian Basin for two seasons and played his graduate student year at the University of Maryland Baltimore County.

Armstrong earned Second Team America East honors and played for the AE All-Academic Team in 2025-2026, claiming the America East Tournament MVP award by scoring 33 points. He competed in the 2026 AWS NBA G League Combine in Chicago in May, which allowed him to expose himself to the NBA and NBA G League scouts and coaches.

2

Dr. Phillips High School announced Aalyiah Mohammed as the next girls volleyball team’s head coach. The Panthers’ first game is at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 20, at Olympia High. DP finished last season 6-11.

3

Jamarian Robinson, an Ocoee High alumnus, set a single-game rushing record his freshman year at Warner University. He recorded 298 rushing yards during the team’s victory against Thomas University, Saturday, Nov. 8, averaging 9.4 yards per carry and recording three rushing touchdowns, one coming from a 92-yard score. Robinson now will begin his sophomore year for the Royals.

4

Around the Little League ball field from Friday, July 10, to Sunday, July 12, Dr. Phillips Little League and Windermere Little League competed for their sectional titles.

Dr. Phillips Little League Junior baseball team won the Section 5 Championship and will continue on the road to states. Windermere’s Intermediate baseball team finished as state runners-up, finishing its All-Star summer run.

5

Windermere High welcomed four new head coaches for the 20262027 school year. Samantha Smith will take over as the head coach for cheer, a program that won the state championship last year. John Pompeo will take the helm of the girls soccer team. The team won the district championship, and its state championship run ended with a 2-0 loss to Harmony High, ending the last season 12-5-2. The girls soccer team also had seven players receive All-Metro West recognition for their accomplishments.

Marion Embry Jr. will step in as the head coach of the girls flag football team. The Lady Wolverines wrapped up last spring season 8-5 in the Class 4A, District 5. Another spring sport that will see a new face in the dugout is softball with Megan Leitner taking over the program.

“We’re excited to have these outstanding leaders join the Windermere Athletics family,” Windermere officials wrote in the school’s announcement.

“Welcome to the Pack. We can’t wait to see what’s ahead.”

Squeeze volunteering inspires

Horizon High School service club

Providence Koss began her Game Changers club through her experiences volunteering with the Winter Garden Squeeze to give other students those same opportunities.

When Providence Koss, president of the Game Changers, first volunteered with the Winter Garden Squeeze in the summer before her freshman year at Horizon High School, she simply was looking for a way to step outside of her comfort zone.

At first, talking to new people and interacting with guests on Horizon’s concourse made her nervous, but slowly, Koss embraced and overcame the feeling.

“I liked meeting new people,” she said. “Even though my heart was

Coverage sponsored by:

about to explode, I liked talking to people.”

Koss’ experience became the foundation of her club, Game Changers, a Horizon High volunteer organization that serves as a vessel for students to connect with service opportunities across the school and community.

Inspired by her time volunteering with the Squeeze and with a push

of encouragement from her dad and Squeeze Assistant General Manager, Brian Koss, Providence Koss worked with school staff to launch the club during the first month of the 2025-26 school year.

“My main goal was community involvement,” she said. “It mostly started as a Squeeze help program, but now, it’s helping the whole school.”

During Koss’ first summer with the Squeeze and before her club became an organization, Koss was the lone student volunteer, working alongside the four interns to set up everything on game days.

She quickly saw the need for more help.

To start the club, Providence Koss first had to find the right teacher who would help her establish it. She con-

SEE SQUEEZE PAGE 10A

COMMON GOAL

MEGAN BRUINSMA STAFF WRITER

Acollective gasp sucked the air from inside of New York Beer Project in Horizon West. Belgium had just scored its fourth goal against Team USA Monday, July 6, solidifying the 4-1 defeat in the Round of 16.

In that moment, Team USA’s historic 2026 FIFA World Cup came to an end.

The group Melissa and John Ried had organized to cheer on Team USA slowly dissipated into the night.

“There’s always next time,” some said as they consoled one another.

It was their second watch party the Rieds had organized at the NY Beer Project. It served as an opportunity to get together and see friends from the West Orange Chamber of Commerce while also cheering on their country. A sea of red, white and blue had covered the restaurant at 8 p.m. for game time. Everyone arrived early to snag seats and chitchat before the game SEE WORLD CUP PAGE 10A

Even for the most casual soccer fans, the shared energy of the 2026 FIFA World Cup has reminded us how sports hold the unique power to unite people.

This is what brings people together and what the World Cup is all about.”

Dr. Phillips Little League All-Star softball player Kaycie Peters was a key figure in her All-Star team’s state finish. Page 10A.
Photos by Megan Bruinsma
The 2026 FIFA World Cup brought together friends and family as everyone shared the thrill of cheering on their country.
Courtesy photo
Game Changers’ president Providence Koss and vice president Julia Mendes have become more confident in themselves through the experiences they had volunteering with the Winter Garden Squeeze.
— Jenna Jesko
Restaurants like Horizon West’s packed New York Beer Project were captivated with the energy of people unanimously wanting the USA to win Monday, July 6.

Kaycie Peters

At 12 years old, Kaycie Peters not only was the youngest starter on the Dr. Phillips Little League All-Star Junior team but also was the tallest player at 5-foot-8. Peters was a top hitter in the team’s seven games through district, sectionals and states, finishing the All-Star summer with a .619 batting average, .667 on-base percentage and 13 hits, including three doubles and three triples. She had nine RBIs, nine runs scored, three walks and seven stolen bases.

The rising seventh-grader at Southwest Middle School has shown she is a utility player with her ability to step into all nine positions on the field, including pitching and catching. It was her ninth season at DPLL and her third All-Star team in four eligible years.

What do you enjoy most about softball?

Getting to compete in a game I love with my friends.

When did you start softball and why did you join?

I started when I was 8, because my best friend was going to play, and I wanted to play with her.

Describe what your best softball memory?

Playing all night in an overnight Halloween tournament with my travel team.

What has softball taught you?

How to be a leader and how to be resilient.

THE BASICS

Age: 12

Grade: Rising seventh-grader

School: Southwest Middle School

Sport: Softball

How would you describe yourself as a teammate?

I try to be a good leader, always be positive and cheer on my teammates.

What advice would you give someone who just joined softball?

Never give up, do your best and always have fun!

If you were a coach, what speech would you give the team?

Lock in, stay focused and have fun!

What is your pre-game ritual?

I have a little Jesus figurine that we found in a dugout. It brought us good luck, so now I bring it to every game, and we all rub his head before the game starts.

If you could pick a different sport, what would it be? Why?

Volleyball or flag football because I like team sports.

Who do you look up to the most?

My parents and coaches.

What is something new you’d like to learn?

Some new pitches to add to my

In service of the Squeeze

nected with a Horizon teacher who also attended Squeeze games. That connection led her to Horizon High theater teacher, Ashley Fisher, who was more than willing to sponsor the club.

One of the first people to join was Providence Koss’ friend, Julia Mendes.

“I definitely would not be doing this if I hadn’t been friends with (Providence Koss),” Mendes said. “I was super introverted.”

Today, Mendes serves as the Game Changers’ vice president.

The Game Changers began with around four or five friends, but participation steadily grew through the volunteer opportunities it offered.

Koss and Mendes said the club is different from others because its meetings aren’t necessary for all members to attend; most show up through volunteering their time. Students helped with theater productions, football, baseball and basketball games, and other campus activities. At the events, they primarily work concessions, ticketing, parking and front-of-house responsibilities.

Theater became the club’s biggest outlet for community service and introduced more students to volunteer work and customer service.

Mendes said working with people and experiencing an occasional rude customer helps all the volunteers pick up their customerservice skills, which is what the

club is all about — gaining life skills through volunteering.

CONFIDENCE THROUGH SERVICE

While Game Changers provides volunteer hours for students, both leaders said the biggest benefit has been their personal growth.

Koss said working with the Squeeze helped her overcome social anxiety before she began high school. It helped her push past the barrier and perfect the classroom icebreakers and small social interactions all students experience on a daily basis.

The confidence carried over into the classroom.

“I used to overthink things and wonder if I was doing something wrong,” she said. “Now I’m just like, ‘No one really cares.’ It’s all psychological. I just have to push past the restrictions I put on myself.”

By doing so, Koss has seen herself become more true in her character. She has become more authentic and showcases different parts of her personality when she interacts with each customer, whether it’s a friendly “hello” or striking up a conversation about shared interests.

Mendes has seen a similar transformation. Through volunteering by working the ticket booth at theater performances and Squeeze games or making the hot dogs for the Squeeze’s concessions, she has gained confidence.

This summer is the Game Changers’ first return to where it all began — with the Winter Garden Squeeze.

Instead of Koss being one student helping among a team of interns, the club regularly brings multiple volunteers to assist with ticketing, concessions and fan engagement on game days.

Koss said it has been huge in the Squeeze’s operations. Attendance fluctuates based on the day, sometimes it’s as many as nine volunteers helping during a single game or, more typically, two to four.

“It’s so much quicker,” she said.

“The environment’s lighter, too. It’s nice to have a good rotation of people with fresh ideas and new helpers.”

By volunteering their summer hours to help with the operations, friendships have grown through the time spent under the tent at ticket operations or under the shade of concessions, but Providence Koss also has been able to spend more time with her dad, Brian Koss.

“It’s been a nice way to bond,” she said. “We don’t have a lot of common interests, so this has become something we share.”

Looking ahead, the Game Changers hopes to continue expanding its membership through social media, word of mouth and additional volunteer opportunities. It’s a flexible club and members are able to be as active as they’d like, which in turn gives them more volunteer opportunities.

Game Changers will continue to serve its original vessel, the Squeeze, as the final week of summer play wraps up and looks to celebrate its one-year anniversary in September.

World Cup lifts American spirit

began. Once it did — everyone’s eyes focused on the action.

Amy Pryor said she followed Team USA throughout the season. Athletics always has been an important part of her life, and she played three years of varsity soccer, along with other sports, for Cocoa High School.

Others, including John Ried, also were serious soccer fans, but for most, watching Team USA’s run was more about being with others.

I can’t claim to be a soccer fan. I didn’t even follow the World Cup when it came around four years ago. But that doesn’t mean I don’t understand it. After all, it was the first sport I played, and it’s always a joy to be surrounded by the dedicated fans at Orlando City games who make each game so lively.

So going to watch Team USA was my first time dipping my toes into the waters of the international world of football.

All I can say is I understand it now, and what an atmosphere it created!

First, we went to see the Knockout Round Wednesday, July 1.

The sheer unity filling the restaurant was remarkable. Never

before have I watched a game and actually seen everyone unanimously cheering on the same team. Perhaps that’s what all the restaurants were like in New York for the Knicks. Or for anyone who doesn’t follow sports, it was comparable to the anticipation of everyone standing around the TV watching the ball drop for New Years — except this was better.

Chants of “Team USA” filled the venue following each of the four goals — although only two actually counted but hey, the “W” at the end is all that really matters. It was like everyone was synced up and seat launchers were placed in the chairs as they all rose at the same time with arms in the air, and strangers shared smiles and high fives.

After experiencing that, stepping into NY Beer Project, which is a huge venue with a perfectly oversized TV for viewing, the scene of viewers adorned with American flags made perfect sense.

Unfortunately, the loss symbolized just how unified people can become after a downfall and there was much less cheering. Although, like Melissa Ried had promised, everyone jumped up on beat and filled the air like we were at a stadium doing the wave. What I’ve come to realize is the World Cup essentially is like the Olympics, except there’s only one sport to follow. You can’t flip the TV on to five different sports being broadcast at the same time. Everyone is glued to the same game, and there is only one gold to take home. Honestly, this moment is projecting the same energy as when the U.S. men’s hockey team won gold in the recent Olympics — we saw a country rejoice, and Jack Hughes will go down in history for his front-teeth knockout.

For a country that can be split

on topics at times, the World Cup absolutely unified everyone; it’s a prime example of the impact of sports. Sports are much more than just a game, and I hope the World Cup has helped some realize that. They bring people together and even tear them apart if people don’t agree on their favorite teams. It truly is a beautiful sight to see.

“This is what brings people together and what the World Cup is all about,” Jenna Jesko said. What makes this year’s FIFA World Cup extraordinary — besides the fact that Team USA hadn’t won a Knockout Round game in 24 years — has been the use of social media to broadcast the behind the scenes of every country visiting the USA. It’s what has made me, and I’m sure others, more inclined to keep up with the summer madness.

It’s honestly another way to showcase how sports bring people together.

“It’s teaching others about the USA,” Melissa Ried said. What we’ve learned from watching our international guests try American cuisine is that refillable sodas are a spectacular sight and apparently the best dipping sauce is ranch (which is accurate). It also is confirmed that U.S. food portions are absolutely huge, and Texans with their barbecue ribs know how to serve a good time.

I guess the word “world” in the cup’s title gives away that it is guaranteed to bring different cultures together, but something about seeing it all unfold within your own country just makes it so much more amazing.

So, I implore you to go watch the final game of the World Cup July 19. You don’t have to be a soccer fan to enjoy the final. Rather, it’s another opportunity to be together even though Team USA is out.

Courtesy photo
The Game Changers’ volunteers gathered to ensure smooth running of each of the Squeeze’s home games.

Poll positions

Constituents from throughout West Orange embraced a chance to meet candidates for a variety of offices during the West Or ange Chamber of Commerce’s Hob Nob and Straw Poll, held Thursday, July 9, at Ocoee Lakeshore Center.

Thirty-two candi dates — running for U.S. Congress, the Florida State Legislature, Orange County judge, Ninth Judi cial Circuit, Orange County Clerk of Courts, Orange County mayor, Orange County Board of County Commissioners and Orange County School Board Chair — stumped at this year’s event. After speaking with the candidates, attendees went to the polling stations to make their voices heard in the straw poll.

— LIZ RAMOS

Cheryl Cowles and her husband, Bill Cowles, a former supervisor of elections who served as the moderator of the Hob Nob, were welcomed by Stephen Lewis, president and CEO of the West Orange Chamber of Commerce, which hosted the Hob Nob.
Left: Melva Bentley Ross with the League of Women Voters took time to speak with George Oliver III, who is running for the Orange County Commission District 2 seat.
Caroline Barkuloo with the Healthy West Orange Foundation and Majorie James with Healthy West Orange went around to speak to candidates.
John Swanson was ready to encourage people to vote for his daughter, Kafi Kennedy, who is running for Orange County judge.
Tim Wilkins, who is running to represent Florida’s 11th Congressional District, was all smiles as he spoke to constituents.

The STAR Plan: Here’s what you need to know

Sunrise Movement Orlando, an advocacy group, created the Sunshine Transit Advancement Resolution, or STAR Plan, to study, secure funding for and develop rapid transit for eight high-volume transportation corridors.

Miami-Dade County’s SMART Plan was the inspiration for the STAR Plan.

The eight high-volume transportation corridors are divided into Colonial, Semoran, Silver Star, Sunshine Corridor (MCO-Disney), International, Orange Blossom, Kirkman and the current SunRail corridors.

Two of the corridors will reach Ocoee, giving West Orange residents an access point to the transit system.

This grassroots initiative has goals of expanding the SunRail to evenings and weekends, increasing the speed of Lynx Buses and creating new rail and bus routes across Orange County.

The Orange County Board of County Commissioners will be voting on the plan in September and needs your support. However, does it deserve it?

I spoke with Windermere High alumnus and University of Florida civil engineering student Gabriel Gomes. Gomes said his passion for civil engineering stemmed from his love of the subway system in his hometown of Boston. Upon moving to Florida, he felt homesick.

“The first couple of years in Florida were really hard, because of the complete difference in how these areas were planned,” he said. “It felt as if I was in a whole new world, however, I couldn’t exactly place my finger on it. All I knew for sure was that I definitely missed the subway.”

In Gomes’ spare time, he

researched why he felt this way about Orlando, telling me that since the 1950s, automobiles have gained so much popularity that many neighborhoods purposefully were constructed to prioritize driving convenience above all else.

As we have seen throughout Orange County, new neighborhoods are popping up everywhere, with Orange County’s population being estimated to increase by 700,000 people by 2050. With this rapid population growth, Orange County’s infrastructure will need to keep up.

City Planners have fallen into exclusionary zoning, which means only one type of development could be made on an entire plot of land, and several houses aren’t allowed to be next to convenience stores, restaurants, or local shops and businesses.  Even though this system of construction might seem desirable in the new age of driving and rapid population growth, it comes with many consequences.

According to Gomes, traffic deaths never have been higher, pedestrians might feel unsafe because of the lack of walkability of these new places, climate change now has picked up speed, and traffic congestion surges.

“Climate change continues to increase as every family member is forced to drive,” Gomes said.

Furthermore, the cost of planting asphalt to create parking spots and roads in as many places as possible is indirectly placed onto families, increasing a lack of affordability.

Central Florida has become so reliant upon car transportation, Orlando even has coined the nickname “Carlando” by some on social media.  As a result of the dilemmas mentioned, Gomes is in full support of the STAR Plan.

Sunrise Movement Orlando is seeking to construct a network of bus lanes and rails across Central Florida, bringing back proper mass transportation as a viable option to get around, eliminating any pedestrians’ fears and decreasing the amount of cars on the road.

The STAR Plan also is in favor of rapid transit, including a transporta-

ALYSSA COLOCA WINDERMERE HIGH SCHOOL
The Orange County Board of County Commissioners will vote on the Sunshine Transit Advancement Resolution Plan in September.

SUMMER SCHOOL ZONE

Foundation student ‘channels’ her interests

Kate Richardson has created her own YouTube channel focused on astronomy, space exploration and astrobiology.

Scientific discoveries shape the world around us. Whether they take place in the medical field or even off planet Earth, discoveries are a constant.

However, for many people, actually understanding these advancements and their significance can be difficult. While you can research many things online, most people don’t have the time or energy to spend hours reading through scientific papers.

One avenue people tend to overlook is social media. While platforms such as YouTube typically are associated with funny cat videos and internet trends, they also can be valuable places to learn. Scientists, teachers and students are making engaging, simple videos that explain complex scientific concepts. Through visuals, storytelling and more casual-sounding scripts, these creators make science more accessible for everyone. When I need help understanding something or want to research a new concept, I often turn to these YouTube channels. They get me excited about theories I wouldn’t even be able to understand through standard scientific papers.

Watching other people break down these subjects inspired me to contribute in my own way. Earlier this year, I started a YouTube channel dedicated to exploring and explaining science, with a focus on astronomy, space exploration and astrobiology. I decided to call it

“Kate Explains Space” because, to me, that’s all I am doing: explaining space and making it easier to understand. Although the channel still is in its earliest stages, with only two videos published so far, I already can imagine the possibilities and concepts I can explain as my channel grows and develops.

Creating educational videos involves so much more than simply opening my camera and hitting record. Before each video, I spend

tion service that operates every 15 minutes, or sooner, and is separated from road traffic, as well as fast trains and buses. Gomes is not the only member of the Orange County community that is in support of this plan; many throughout the county are ready to say goodbye to car dependency. Among others, Gomes urges

time researching information, comparing sources and organizing ideas into a script that is both accurate and easy to follow. I also plan on linking all scientific papers referenced in the descriptions of my longer videos, so people can do additional research. I take the time to truly learn the content first so it is easy for me to explain to others, and I use the same explanations I employed when teaching myself. The process has shown me that it is one thing to learn something and an entirely new thing to teach and introduce it to an audience.

One of the most rewarding parts of creating science content is how it reminds me that there is so much left to learn. Every question leads me to another. Researching one YouTube video leads me to plan four more. Working on the channel has encouraged me to keep learning new things, instead of just explaining what I already know. Even with just two videos out, I learned things about space that I didn’t know before. This fuels my own fire for science and is a way I can continue to research what I love and turn it into something I can share with others. Sharing that curiosity and passion I have for space is one of the main reasons I started a channel.

Educational content also is a reminder that learning doesn’t stop at school. We can learn a lot in classrooms, but sometimes you want to dive deeper into something that wasn’t fully explained by a teacher. If there is something you are interested in, you have access to documentaries, podcasts, articles and YouTube videos on the subject. A single video could spark interest that eventually leads to a career in science. Or, at the very least, can remind you that learning doesn’t have to be boring if it’s something you’re curious about.

My channel still is small, and there is plenty of room to grow. However, every creator starts with just one upload. For me, the goal isn’t to become an overnight viral sensation. Instead, I plan to keep growing my channel slowly, improving my editing, scripts and storytelling with each video and encouraging others to explore science. If a video helps one person better understand astrobiology or inspires someone to learn, then it has accomplished exactly what I hoped it would.

everyone to pay attention to their local elections and vote in support of the STAR Plan.

Currently, the STAR Plan is the closest movement that would fulfill Gomes’ wishes of bringing safe, affordable and diverse transportation to the Central Florida area.

To support the STAR Plan, visit the Sunrise Movement Orlando’s website, sunriseorlandofl.org.

ONLINE
Check out Kate Richardson’s science YouTube channel, @KateExplainsSpace .

THE WAYS WE WERE FROM THE WINTER GARDEN HERITAGE FOUNDATION

1951: 75 years ago

Completion work was taking place at West Orange Memorial Hospital after construction stopped three years prior for lack of funds. A federal grant of $125,000, money raised by public subscription, and a bank loan provided the necessary funds. When completed, the hospital was one of the very few fully air-conditioned hospitals in the Southeast.

1966: 60 years ago

Handicraft classes were being conducted at Dillard Street Elementary School under the direction of Kay Heidt. She was pictured with students Melissa Warden and Suzanne Dickerson.

Mary Beth McMillan was Winter Garden’s representative to the newly formed Young Modern fashion teen board sponsored by JCPenney of the Winter Park Mall. Her first modeling assignment was at the back-to-school show, Fashions with Pow.

Playing at the Star-Lite DriveIn in Winter Garden: “Las Vegas Hillbillys,” “Gunpoint,” “Born Free,” “Shane,” “Nevada Smith” and “Visit to a Small Planet.” Of interest to parents: Children receive free candy on Fridays.

1981: 45 years ago

Many West Orange residents once dined at the 94th Aero Squadron restaurant near Herndon Airport, which was named for the Escadrille outfit in France in which Eddie Rickenbacker flew during World War I. There were local ties, as Jess Green of Windermere also was a member of the 94th Aero Squadron during his early Air Force years. Green owned Times Printing in Winter Garden.

Ned Vick hosted a family gathering to mark the 100th anniversary of the Vick family at Crown

This early 1960s photograph shows the H.M. Bowness service station in Ocoee, at the northwestern corner of Franklin Street and Ocoee-Apopka Road. Hartle M. Bowness, the owner of the station for many years, stands near one of the gas pumps.

The Bowness family started its fuel business in the 1930s. Eventually, the Bownesses constructed this station on a plot they had been using to grow strawberries. Bowness often would sleep on the premises in case people needed service at night. While the station itself still stands, H.M. Bowness Inc. ended operations in 1989. Today, the nearby Bowness Avenue still is named for the family. 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.

Point in Winter Garden. Vick’s grandfather, John Henry Vick, arrived in the spring of 1891.

1986: 40 years ago

The town of Oakland was making plans for its 100th anniversary of incorporation. Councilwoman Louise Battin, who chaired the Centennial Committee, posed by a commemorative sign designed by J.C. Brown, of Winter Garden.

1991: 35 years ago

The old library in Windermere was closing, and staff was sorting through the volumes, keeping some for the new library and discarding others. Teachers from Lakeview Middle and West Orange High schools, Windermere Union Preschool and First Baptist Church Child Development Center were invited to select books for their use.

1996: 30 years ago

The Movie Scene in Ocoee celebrated its seven-year anniversary with multiple specials — rent one kid’s video, get one kid’s video free; $1 off a rental of $5 or more; and rent one Sega or Super NES game, get one free. Michael Hurley, of Windermere, and James McKey, of Winter Garden, appeared on “The Mike Douglas Show.” They were members of the musical group Arthur and Hurley.

JULY 12, 1979

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DANCING PARTNERS by Paul Coulter, edited by Jared Goudsmit
By Luis Campos

Quick and Convenient Health Screenings

Back when scraped knees healed fast and the biggest risk was missing curfew, you felt unstoppable. Keep that momentum going by scheduling the three crucial health screenings every man should have starting at age 45. Prostate, colorectal and lung cancers can appear silently — often with no symptoms. Early detection can mean better treatment options and better outcomes.

Schedule your screenings today. Call 800-403-9413 or visit HealthCheckPoints.com.

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