Ocoee residents say a proposal for a 7-Eleven convenience store will have negative impacts on the community. SEE PAGE 8A.
YOUR TOWN
POPSTROKE ANNOUNCES OPENING DATE
PopStroke Entertainment Group has announced the opening date for its Hamlin location.
The long-anticipated entertainment hub will open to the public Wednesday, Aug. 6, at Hamlin Town Center, 5487 Hamlin Groves Trail, Winter Garden. It will be the company’s second location in the Orlando area, its ninth in Florida and the 18th location overall.
PopStroke Entertainment Group is co-owned by Greg Bartoli, Tiger Woods, and TaylorMade Golf Company.
The Hamlin opening comes after PopStroke opened its Daytona venue in 2024. The company also plans to open a location on
FOOD AWAKENING
With several restaurants either recently opened or coming soon, the dining landscape in Horizon West and Winter Garden is getting a serious upgrade. STORY PAGE 4A.
Crash knocks out downtown W.G. building’s power
The building located at 360 Plant St. is running on a generator after a car hit its transformer. SEE PAGE 8A.
INK AHEAD
Students at SOBO Art Gallery’s summer art camp explored their creativity in a variety of different media. SEE 7B.
Ocoee resident Carmen Bishop turned her love
5FAST
Body of missing boater recovered from Lake Butler Orange County officials on Monday, July 15, announced the recovery of a body in Lake Butler.
The victim, a man identified as 24-year-old Igor Pessoa De Oliveira fell off a boat Saturday, July 12, while enjoying his day with friends. It is unknown how he fell off the boat. However, he never resurfaced.
The body was recovered by the Marine Unit of Orange County at about 11:30 a.m. Sunday, July 14.
No other details have been released at this time.
2
Epic Universe fuels tourism spike Orange County Comptroller Phil Diamond announced Tourist Development Tax collections received by Orange County for the May 2025 TDT collection month were $29,993,100. That is a 5.7% increase compared to May 2024.
“May 2025 collections were the highest May collections on record,”
to 69.2%, up. 6% year-over-year, while hotel demand increased 2.6%, primarily driven by the addition of 2,500 hotel rooms to the market. The average daily rate climbed 4.7% to $198.20, up from $189.30 in May 2024.
The Orange County Convention Center reported major events, including: Coverings (26,800 attendees), U.S. Chess (17,500 attendees) and SAP & ASUG Annual Conference (15,000 attendees).
According to Visit Orlando, short-term rentals in Metro Orlando also saw a 12% increase compared to May 2024.
3
Boil water advisory lifted in Southwest Orange The Orange County Utilities Department lifted its precautionary boil water advisory for Southwest Orange Friday, July 11.
According to department officials, the issue began because of a water main break near State Road
Palm Parkway. While repairs to the break are being completed, two of the three southbound lanes on S.R. 535 are blocked. Traffic delays are expected, so ensure extra travel time when in the area.
4
Foundation to celebrate
ebrate the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution with “Their Patriots Would be Proud! CitrusBelt Founders — Descendants of America’s Revolution.”
The event will take place from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Friday, July 18, at the foundation, 21 E. Plant St., Winter Garden.
pioneers of West Orange County. Author and historian Richard Cronin will cover luminaries such as Isaphoenia Cleopatra Speer and William C. Roper, in addition to many others. For more information, visit wghf.org/events.
5
Ocoee Police Department welcomes new officers
The Ocoee Police Department welcomed two new officers to the force Monday, July 7.
David Rosario and Kenwood Pierre took their oaths to serve and protect the city of Ocoee with integrity and dedication.
As one of the most rapidly growing cities in Central Florida, Ocoee and its police department are committed to police professionalism and individual integrity to ensure safety all throughout. With more than 95 sworn police officers, OPD welcomed two more in Rosario and Pierre at this Swearing In Ceremony.
CORRECTION
In the July 10 edition, the article, “Duo brings recycling back to Winter Garden,” reported the city of Winter Garden is continuing to collect cardboard. This is incorrect.
Courtesy photo
Comptroller Phil Diamond reported the Tourism Developtment Tax collection totaled $29,993,100 in May.
Finding her why
During her battle with addiction, Ocoee resident Carmen Bishop rediscovered her love of sewing. She turned that passion into her own business, Coruscate Leather & Co.
“If I (weren’t) doing this for a living, I would be doing it for fun. I love it so much. It’s the best medium that I’ve ever worked in.”
—
MEGAN BRUINSMA EDITORIAL INTERN
Addiction is a battle.
As a teenager, Ocoee resident Carmen Bishop fought that battle for years. It continued with multiple stints in rehab after age 21.
But that’s also precisely when she found her why.
Nine years ago, while in an allwomen’s rehabilitation program, women from a local church brought in their sewing machines for the patients. Bishop made a bag — a project that ultimately changed her life.
That bag hangs over her bed as a reminder of the women she made it with and her sobriety of nine years.
“In that rehab is really where my passion woke back up again,” Bishop said.
She had been sewing since she was a little girl, learning the talent from her great-grandmother, a seamstress.
And today, Bishop, now a leathersmith, shares that talent as “wearable art” through her business, Coruscate Leather & Co.
THE JOURNEY
Bishop’s love affair with leather began at a young age, captivated by her grandmother’s collection of leather bags.
“It’s one of the things that got me into it to begin with,” Bishop said of the collection. “She would buy these beautiful hand-tooled leather bags and I would just sit there and put my hands over all of the texture.”
She began to explore different materials and discovered a love for natural fibers such as hemps, woven textiles and rich cottons. The journey led her to finding leather. With it, she sewed her first leather hacky sack in 1997.
After rehab, Bishop started working as an art teacher at Michael’s, and a woman came in talking about industrial sewing. Bishop saved up to buy a machine. That purchase led her down the road of becoming an industrial seamstress, making huge awnings and cabana tops for Quality Awning.
Then COVID-19 hit.
Bishop worked as an essential worker for two months before she lost her job. At that time, her nowhusband, Jason Bourdon, asked what she was going to do.
“I said, ‘I’ve always wanted to learn how to sew leather bags since I was a little girl,’” Bishop said. “He’s (Bourdon) like, ‘So do that. Let’s do that. We have the time to do that. We already have the sewing machine.’”
Bourdon supported her dream. He transformed the cottage that Bishop came home to as a baby into a workshop space. They went out to Tandy, a leather shop, and bought the first hive of leather.
It sat in the house while Bishop worked up the nerves to cut into the delicate and expensive piece of material. A half-hide of leather starts at about $150.
After six months, she cut it.
THE BUSINESS BEGINS
The first bag that Bishop made sold on Etsy instantly.
“We went out and had a big dinner to celebrate,” Bishop said. “That was in March or April of 2022. Then in November of 2022, we had our first vendor show at the Orlando Maker Faire, and that was our test run.”
At that point, she was only sewing the bags and had not begun to carve into them. Bishop didn’t feel like a leathersmith yet, more like someone that was just “playing with leather.”
She started cranking out pieces to sell for months. They set a revenue goal before the Maker Faire and said if they met that, then they would continue to produce goods.
“We blew that number out of the park,” Bishop said.
In that moment, Coruscate Leather & Co. was born.
“It’s (Coruscate) a verb,” Bourdon said. “It means to reflect or shine brilliantly.”
Bishop found the word during rehab. When she stumbled upon it while reading, she remembered the feelings and wanted to feel that again.
“This is Carmen and my efforts to cast our light up,” Bourdon said. “This (is) beautiful stuff that she can make so that others can (enjoy).”
Coruscate Leather & Co. is truly a team effort between the two. Bishop said she would be the creative director, while Bourdon acts as the operations director.
Bourdon was a woodworker and a 3D printer. He started to play around with leather to help Bishop out and realized how fun it is to work with.
“Jason does a lot like cutting things out for me,” Bishop said. “Originally, I would carve it and then take a razor blade and cut around it, and it took forever. … Now, Jason can cut them out for me on the laser, and then I can tool them.”
Eighteen months ago, they bought a laser cutter. It connects to a program called Light Burn and shoots a laser through three different mirrors
down to the leather. Bourdon uses it to cut pieces of leather in the matter of minutes, allowing Bishop to focus on the artistry.
“I will sit out here for six hours listening to Joe Rogan or some podcast and just literally lose the entire day out here carving,” Bishop said. “If I (weren’t) doing this for a living, I would be doing it for fun. I love it so much. It’s the best medium that I’ve ever worked in.”
It’s sped up the process in making their most popular product, butterfly hair barrettes. They’re carved and hand-painted leather butterflies that feature a locally sourced porcupine quill.
“My favorite is to incorporate everything I’ve learned into one product,” Bishop said.
She loves being able to craft custom orders for clients and challenge her skills by painting intricate designs onto totes and journal covers. Bishop learned how to use hand wax by mixing beeswax and paraffin then putting it on and hitting it with a heat gun to melt it into the fibre.
As Bishop’s skills expand, so has Coruscate Leather & Co. since the Maker Faire in November 2022. Bourdon said sales have grown by 40% to 80% every year.
They have begun to sell products in local stores and through a website that Bourdon developed, where customers can buy pre-made items or request a custom order. Most of the products are sold at the 25 to 30 fairs that they do each year. Half the fairs are through the partnership they have with the Orlando Science Center.
But Bishop has a different dream for its future.
FUTURE PLANS
Bishop’s grandfather used to own Dave’s Pharmacy in downtown Winter Garden, and she envisions having a space like that or even own her grandpa’s space.
“I would absolutely love to have Coruscate, where you walk in and there’s a retail space where you can see all of our bags,” Bishop said. “We’re leather dealers as well. We have leather hides that we sell. So we’ll have leather hides there.”
She wants to create a space where customers can come in to purchase bags, and as they look over, they can see the artistic process of making them by watching the machines and people behind the creations. It would be a retail shop, as well as an educational space.
Bishop loves to teach people about her skills, and she already has done a couple of leather classes in the current space. She intends to expand that if they ever open a full store.
“Come here and make something leather, then take it with you,” Bourdon said.
So far, all of the revenue has been pushed back into Coruscate to buy supplies, enhance the workshop area and purchase new tools. Now, as the business celebrates its fourth anniversary this November, Bishop and Bourdon are able to save some of the revenue to push it toward future endeavors and dreams.
Carmen Bishop enjoys growing her business, Coruscate Leather & Co., with the help of her husband, Jason Bourdon.
New restaurants add new flavors to local dining scene
Foodies, rejoice! Horizon West and Winter Garden are enjoying some serious upgrades to their respective dining-out options.
In addition to the recently opened Jag Cantina near Windermere and Chipotle in Flamingo Crossings in Horizon West, and the recently relaunched Keke’s Breakfast Cafe location in Westside Shoppes in Horizon West, several more restaurants have announced plans to add locations.
JAG CANTINA
ADDRESS: 8965 Conroy Windermere Road, Orlando
PHONE: (407) 612-5727
Jag Cantina opened its doors Monday, June 9, offering a unique dining experience where nature’s bounty meets Mexican culinary tradition.
“It pulses with the energy of a lush, modern jungle — deep red walls echo volcanic stone, rich greenery cascades from above, and warm lighting flickers like sunlight breaking through dense canopy,” owner Scott Anderson said. “It’s wild, intimate and alive.”
Jag Cantina seeks to honor the roots of authentic Mexican cuisine while pushing boundaries with artistic presentations, bold flavors and best-of-the-best ingredients.
Anderson said the restaurant is a place for people to escape. He wants the community to enjoy, crave and return to the restaurant.
“It’s a family business,” Anderson said. “I’ve been in the area for almost 40 years and I’m deeply invested in the area.”
Jag Cantina offers traditional dishes such as enchiladas, chile relleno, molcajete, tacos and modern Mexican-cuisine items, such as snapper, one of the most popular items on the menu, and pollo asado.
The restaurant also offers margaritas, agua frescas, and cocktails made with Mexicanmade liquors.
Anderson said the restaurant’s theme draws inspiration from the Mexican culture, where jaguars are a symbol of strength and bravery. He said the cantina honors the soul of Mexico by honoring the jaguar.
“Guests come for vibrant dishes, stay for exceptional service, and leave with lasting memories of something truly different,” Anderson said.
Located in the Shoppes of Windermere, the restaurant is open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily, with happy hour from 3-6 p.m.
For more, visit jagcantina.com.
KEKE’S BREAKFAST CAFE
ADDRESS: 6526 Old Brick Road, No. 130, Windermere
PHONE: (407) 217-2036
After abruptly closing earlier this year, the Westside Shoppes’ Keke’s Breakfast Cafe reopened June 30 under new ownership and featuring a refreshed look.
Kimberly and John Ehrhard now own the restaurant as well as eight other Keke’s locations in Florida.
“None of us will be perfect, but as long as we’re trying to be better every day, that’s all I care about,” John Ehrhard said. “Let’s try things, some will work, some won’t but that’s how we grow.”
John Ehrhard said Keke’s goal is to ensure customers are happy and can slow down, take a breath and enjoy the atmosphere.
“The service has to be warm, genuine and excellent,” he said. “When guests come to Keke’s, it should feel like a treat, you see it in their faces when the plate hits the table.”
Three other Keke’s locations — Winter Park, Apopka and Lake Mary — closed earlier this year because of a legal dispute between franchise owner Gregory Leitzinger and loan companies. Those companies allege Leitzinger has not paid back loans as promised. However, Leitzinger said he was forced out of Keke’s leadership after declining to expand into leadership roles within the company and instead choosing to run those four locations only.
Keke’s Breakfast Cafe serves breakfast and brunch options, with made-to-order meals and fresh ingredients. The location is open from 7 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. daily.
“Being part of the Keke’s family is incredibly rewarding,” John Ehrhard said. “We’re genuinely proud of the journey.”
TROPICAL SMOOTHIE
ADDRESS: Corner of Hamlin Groves Trail and Calamondin Drive
The first Tropical Smoothie Cafe in Horizon West is now being built. Located at the corner of Hamlin Groves Trail and Calamondin Drive, the cafe will have a drive-thru, outdoor seating areas, and designated parking for takeout and dine-in customers.
Tropical Smoothie offers fresh, made-onthe-spot smoothies, such as the Bahama Mama, Sunrise Sunset, Mango Magic, and more. It also offers flatbreads, yogurt and açaí bowls, wraps, salads, sandwiches, quesadillas and other food items.
The new location is part of the larger Tropical Smoothie Cafe chain, which recently was acquired by Blackstone. While Blackstone owns the overall brand, the specific franchise location in Hamlin is likely owned by a franchisee, which has not been announced yet.
CHIPOTLE
ADDRESS: 13354 Hartzog Road, Winter Garden (Flamingo Crossings); 6527 Old Brick Road, Suite 100, Windermere (Westside Shoppes)
PHONE: (689) 407-4215
(Flamingo Crossings)
A new Chipotle Mexican Grill opened its doors at 13354 Hartzog Road at Flamingo Crossings in Horizon West Tuesday, July 8.
nature Chipotlane, a drive-thru pick-up lane that allows guests to pick up digital orders without leaving their cars. It marks the first Chipotlane in Winter Garden.
The restaurant is open daily from 10:45 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., offering both dine-in and takeout options.
The company is also planning another location in Horizon West, taking over the space previously occupied by Tijuana Flats, 6527 Old Brick Road, Suite 100, Windermere, in the Westside Shoppes plaza. Although an opening timeline has not been announced, permits continue to move forward with Orange County indicating the project continues to advance. The design includes exterior branding, signage and interior re-model of the vacant space.
Chipotle offers a fast-casual service based on Mexican cuisine. Clients can order customizable bowls, burritos, quesadillas and tacos. It offers a variety of protein options, from chicken to steak to plant-based meats. Chipotle also offers homemade guacamole, rice, beans, veggies, a new adobo ranch and more.
Seasons 52 is planning on opening a new location in Winter Garden. The restaurant is expected to take over the site formerly occupied by Romano’s Macaroni Grill, 3143 Daniels Road, Winter Garden, in the Winter Garden Village plaza.
The plans for the Darden-owned restaurant call for demolishing the existing 6,800-square-foot building and building the restaurant from scratch.
The American-cuisine menu features the most popular fruits and vegetables of the season, micro-seasonal foods that might only be available for a few weeks, as well as a variety of wines from which to choose. Seasons 52 emphasizes healthy cooking techniques such as oak-fire grilling and brick oven roasting, to provide flavor without excess fats, oils or sauces. No opening dates or construction plans have been set.
WEST ORANGE TIMES
LETICIA SILVA STAFF WRITER
Courtsy photos
New Keke’s Breakfast Cafe Windermere owners Kimberly and John Ehrhard reopened the location June 30.
Orange County opens Bentonshire Park
Horizon West residents joined Orange County officials to celebrate the community’s newest recreational area.
MEGAN
BRUINSMA EDITORIAL INTERN
A year after breaking ground and after a $1.8 million investment, Bentonshire Park opened Thursday, July 10, marking the 114th park opened in Orange County.
Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings and District 1 Commissioner Nicole Wilson hosted the grand opening to cut the ribbon and welcome Horizon West residents to their new park.
“Quality of life isn’t always about where the red light is located or the timing of traffic on I-4,” Wilson said. “It’s also about what we do in our spare time, about where we connect with our families, about places that we can grow our community and our sense of self.”
The 5-acre park includes a dog park, a large covered playground and an open field with newly planted trees. Picnic tables and grills are scattered across the grass to enhance the use of the space.
“This space is only one of many beautiful Horizon West community parks that have made good on the promise to locate parks and schools within communities that they serve so that we can preserve spaces for shared recreation and relaxation,” Wilson said. Wilson said she already can feel “lifetime memories” beginning to form at the playground. She loves that it serves as a place not only for kids but also for adults to continue prioritizing their health by using it to walk and jog.
While construction took only a year, the design process occurred over several years. Wilson said the county sent out a survey to the community asking what they would like to have included.
The community responded with desires for a dog park and a playground. Those two features take up about one-third of the park, while the rest is left as open grass. Because the community members voted on having an open field, it will remain that way, Wilson said.
More than a dozen members of the community came to watch the rib-
bon cutting and celebrate the birth of their new park.
“The dog park has been a big draw,” Horizon West resident Steve Howard said. He brought his black Labrador to celebrate the ribbon-cutting.
Howard and his friend, Rick Helbling who has lived in the area for 17 years, saw the entire process of the project. They went to the groundbreaking a year ago and got a glimpse of the blueprint of what was to come.
“It came out pretty close,” Helbling said while reflecting on the original blueprint of Bentonshire Park.
He’s enjoyed getting to use the new
Dust-up: Oakland continues to seek solutions for road woes
Oakland Shores resident Scott Hren presented a petition to have the streets of his neighborhood paved.
LETICIA SILVA STAFF WRITER
Following months of discussion about the town of Oakland’s unpaved roads and the dust they create, town commissioners on Tuesday, July 8, introduced the idea of a non-ad valorem tax added to Oakland Shores residents to pave the neighborhood’s roads.
The conversation began after Oakland Shores resident Scott Hren presented to the commission a video of a truck — and a subsequent trail of dust — as it drove by his home.
The town had been working to cut down on dust by experimenting with various road coverings, including crushed shell and dirt similar to what covers the roads in the town of Windermere.
Nothing was a viable solution until
the town tried recycled asphalt millings that were screened before being applied with a paving machine and roller.
However, Hren said he believes the dust was caused by the recent asphalt millings in Oakland Shores.
Following the meeting, Hren posted his video to social media. However, Mayor Shane Taylor said Hren’s video was taken when work still was in process.
Hren also went door-to-door in his neighborhood to ask about the millings and his neighbors’ thoughts.
According to Hren’s petition, 54 people responded and 80% of them would prefer paved streets.
Part of the issue with the first installation was the original contractor used inconsistent fill material, including debris not suitable for road construction. The amount
used for one-third of the road was not enough recycled asphalt to adequately bind the aggregate together, Oakland Public Works Director Mike Parker said.
In May, Parker said the town would hold the contractor accountable for removing the improper material.
Since then, the town has hired a new contractor, and work began the week of July 7. The contractor is getting a crew together and it should be a much better product than what originally installed, Parker said.
Should the commission move forward with the tax option, it would be only added to the homeowners living on the streets to be paved.
“We’ve had residents (who) have offered to pay more on their taxes to get the roads paved,” Hren said.
“There’s a resident at the end of the street who’s offered to pay to pave his section himself.”
Town commissioner Kris Keller said the town is not trying to raise taxes on its residents.
walking paths that came with the park as he walks down to a nearby lake almost every day to watch Florida’s sunsets.
Others are new to the area and also rejoicing in its completion.
Molly and Daniel Staton came into the neighborhood in May from Celebration. The Statons have a newborn son and said the park was a large selling point for their move. They believe a park is important for his upbringing.
“It’s is right out our front door,” Daniel Staton said of the park.
“That’s the nice thing: When he gets
IN OTHER NEWS
n The commission approved Ordinance 2025-03, which prohibits public camping and sleeping.
n Expressing a desire to attract new businesses and restaurants to Oakland, Town Commissioner Sal Ramos asked about lowering impact fees. Although the town would like to make changes to the impact fees, they’re not able to because of legal issues in accordance to Florida’s Impact Fee Act. This act mandates local governments comply with specific requirements when adopting or increasing impact fees, including basing calculations on recent data, providing for proper accounting of funds, and limiting administrative charges. Commis-
“It’s us trying to balance the needs of the whole entire town,” she said. Taylor thanked Hren for his advocacy.
SMOKE/VAPE SALES
Town commissioners expressed their disdain for the amount of smoking and vaping products begins sold at the Citgo convenience store at 17100 W. Colonial Drive.
older, there’s a peace of mind that I can be like, ‘Oh, if you want to go run around the park,’ I can sit on the front porch and watch him. I don’t have to take him in the car, pack everything up.”
In Celebration, Molly Staton said they had to drive 10 minutes to their nearest park; now, Bentonshire Park feels like part of their front yard. They already have utilized the trails the park offers and are excited to have their son grow up with the amenity.
A main reason Orange County Parks and Recreation chose Bentonshire Park’s location is to provide residents with a park within walking distance.
“Orange County commits to families and this is a part of that commitment,” Demings said.
He wants to continue to find ways to enhance families lives and having recreational space is a key element. Behind the playground lies a tall grassy area that will eventually be transformed into an elementary school, Demings said, continuing to grow the space for families.
“Our goal with the Board of County Commissioners is, as we grow responsibly as a county, to preserve as much green space as we possibly can,” he said. “With the support of our board, we have now allocated $100 million to move forward to continue purchasing environmentally sensitive lands throughout our county.”
Demings said there are 800 to 1,000 new residents who move to Orange County every week. Currently, the county has 23,000 acres of parks, and he wants to double that number in the future.
Growth in the Horizon West area has surged over the last couple of years with its close location to the theme parks. Both Demings and Wilson want to continue to provide to those new residents with more projects like Bentonshire Park.
sioners passed a motion to accept the first reading of these impact fees and will continue discussions in a future meeting.
n Oakland Avenue Charter School earned an “A” grade from the Florida Department of Education, reflecting strong performance in English/language arts, science and mathematics. Some teachers also were recognized for their 10-plus years of work at the school.
n Town Manager Elise Hui mentioned Florida’s proposal of lowering homestead property taxes. Hui said this would impact the town’s ability to provide essential services, like a police and a fire department. Keller advised residents to call Florida’s legislators about the issue and make their voices heard.
They expressed their desire to eliminate smoke shops in the town; however, legally the town cannot place a ban on the sale of those products.
Oakland Police Chief Darron Esan said his department has looked into it, and there’s nothing illegal being sold at Citgo.
“It’s not pleasing to some, but we can’t discriminate,” Esan said.
Megan Bruinsma
Orange County Major Jerry Demings and District 1 Commissioner Nicole Wilson held scissors to open Bentonshire Park.
Community members stood with them in support of their new space.
First Baptist Church @ Horizon West 15304 Tilden Road, Winter Garden
Sundays: 9:45 AM All Ages www.FBCWG.org
Starke Lake Baptist Church Pastor Jeff Pritchard PO Box 520 611 W Ave., Ocoee (407) 656-2351 www.StarkeLakeBaptist.org
Victory Baptist Church & Christian Academy 1601 A.D. Mims Rd, Ocoee FL 34761 (407) 656-3097 www.VBCOCOEE.com
Sunday: 11AM & 6 PM Wednesday: 7 PM
METHODIST
First United Methodist www.fumcwg.org 125 N. Lakeview Ave., Winter Garden (407) 656-1135
Services: 9 AM Traditional 10:45 AM Contemporary Also viewable on YouTube
PRESBYTERIAN
St. John’s PCA
Meets at West Orange HS 1625 Beulah Rd, Winter Garden 321-343-7741 Sundays: 10:30 AM www.stjohnspca.com
Winter Garden considers amendment to deter solicitation, peddling
MICHAEL ENG EDITOR AND PUBLISHER
Citing an increase in solicitors and peddlers, Winter Garden leaders are considering language changes and amendments to the city code that would allow for stricter control over these activities within city limits.
Winter Garden city commissioners heard the first reading of an ordinance outlining these changes at their Thursday, July 10, meeting.
“I’ve (received) a lot of complaints in the north side of my district — people coming to the door; kids answering the door,” City Commission Lisa Bennett said. “The merchants, too. … They have people sitting up front eating, and then (solicitors or peddlers) come up and want money.”
Mayor John Rees said some solicitors also are using children to act as peddlers, because people are more likely to donate to a child.
“They bring kids, let them out, then they go around and solicit people who are sitting outside … and eating,” he said.
To combat these activities, ordinance 25-22 would change city code with a revised definition of “solicitor”; prohibit certain actions of solicitors, agents or peddlers within public rights-of-way; amend requirements and procedures for solicitor permits; amend exemptions from solicitation permitting requirements for nonprofit entities; and create a way for residents and business owners to opt out of solicitations.
Regarding the definition of “solicitor,” the change would add the following language: “‘Solicitor’ shall include persons asking for cash donations or other charitable contributions of any kind, as well as persons engaged in soliciting information door-to-door to conduct polls, surveys and similar activities for a commercial purpose, but shall not include religious or political canvassing during which donations are not sought, funds are not solicited, or products are not sought to be sold.”
The change also adds this language to prohibited activities: “It is unlawful for any individual solicitor, agent or peddler to conduct any business within the public rights-of-way within the municipal limits of the city. This prohibition includes soliciting orders for the sale of any goods, wares or merchandise on foot or from a vehicle, whether motorized or not. Vehicles used to conduct business in violation of this subject may be subject to towing and impoundment.”
IN OTHER NEWS
n The commission unanimously approved the first reading of a rezone request for the property at 14451, 14423, 14411, 14375 and 14345 W. Colonial Drive from C-2 (Arterial Commercial) to Planned Commercial Development. This would pave the way for the development of four commercial buildings totaling 46,432 square feet. The project would include retail/ office/restaurant spaces in three of the buildings, with the fourth building being occupied by Solomon Auto Body repair. The existing Solomons Auto Body would be demolished. The second reading is scheduled to take place Thursday, July 24.
n Commissioners unanimously approved the first reading of a proposal to annex 1.88 acres at 1150, 1158, 1166 and 1204 Avalon Road into the city. The second reading is scheduled for Thursday, July 24.
n City commissioners approved amendments to the 2024-25 budget revenues. The new revenues are: General Fund, $348,406; General Fund Police Impact Fe, $140,000; Utility Operating Fund, $500,000; and Stormwater Fund, $314,092 — a total of $1,302,498.
n The commission approved the Back-to-School Bash to take place from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 2, at Zanders Park, 362 11th St., Winter Garden. The event will feature water games, foam party and a pool party; school supplies will be given to kids.
status to the city manager or his/her designee, a charitable, benevolent, fraternal, educational, religious or other similar nonprofit organization or association may apply for and receive a waiver of payment of the permitting fee. If granted, such waiver shall be effective only as to the grantee, its volunteers and its direct employees, and shall not be extended to any independent contractors or for-profit entities hired, paid or retained by the grantee. The permit requirements of this article shall otherwise apply to all nonprofit entities and any individuals, whether volunteers, employees or contractors, soliciting orders for the sale of any goods, wares or merchandise or soliciting charitable contributions of any kind on behalf of such entities.”
The changes also include two stipulations to rules for obtaining a solicitor permit: “No solicitor permit shall be granted to an individual who is under the age of 18 at the time of application. Solicitor permits are not assignable or transferable. Any individual participating in an organized effort to solicit or peddle goods, wares or merchandise, or solicit charitable donations must obtain his or her own solicitor permit.”
New language for nonprofit permit fee exemption reads: “Upon presentation of sufficient proof of charitable or benevolent intent and nonprofit
Finally, the changes include language that enables residents and business owners to be added to a no-solicitations list, which would be obtained through the Winter Garden Police Department and shared with all solicitor permit-holders.
“Residents and businesses will also have the options to allow only charitables solicitors to visit their properties,” Planning Director Kelly Carson said.
Commissioners unanimously approved the first reading of this ordinance. The second reading is scheduled to take place July 24.
Windermere to spend $1.4M in stormwater improvements
LIZ
RAMOS SENIOR EDITOR
Windermere Town Council unani-
mously approved about a $1.4 million bid for the second phase of stormwater improvements on Bessie and Butler streets.
Council members Tom Stroup and Brandi Haines were absent from the meeting Tuesday, July 8.
The funding for the stormwater components is provided through the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program.
The town received five bid submissions for the project.
Tonya Elliott-Moore, the assistant town manager and Public Works director, said bids under this process through the grant program require the town to take the low bid “no matter if we might like another contractor or might like what the bid had in it.”
As a result, Windermere Town Council unanimously approved Valencia Construction Group, which was the lowest responsive and responsible bidder.
The cost for stormwater improvements on Bessie Street is $735,583.20, while the cost for Butler Street stormwater improvements is $685,019.80. The total for both streets is $1,420,603.
Water main improvements for the streets will be deferred pending future available funding.
Elliott-Moore said now the town sends the bid to the Federal Emergency Management Agency for approval, negotiations will start with the contractor and a schedule will be determined to see when work can begin.
The duration is 210 days once work begins.
“This is a FDEM (Florida Division of Emergency Management) proj -
IN OTHER NEWS
n Leonard Spencer, representative for Florida State House District 45, provided a legislative update. He said the most direct example of “meaningful results” impacting Windermere and the region was securing state funding to support water infrastructure improvements and other local priorities.
“It’s a clear return on the partnership that we’ve been able to establish between my office and this town,” he said.
n Windermere Town Council unanimously approved the appointments of Chris Ruckia and Mike Swatkowski to the Development Review Board.
ect so it has a pretty strict schedule so we have to close it out in time,” Elliott-Moore said.
NEW TENNIS COURTS LIGHTS
Town council unanimously approved the transition to LED lights at Main Street Tennis Courts and Windermere Recreation Center in the amount of $23,722.
The Windermere Recreation Center previously had LED lights installed on half its courts, but this project will complete the remaining upgrades.
All existing lights at the Main Street Tennis Courts will be fully replaced with new energy-efficient LED fixtures.
The LED upgrade aligns with the town’s sustainability goals as it is expected to improve lighting quality and reduce long-term energy and maintenance costs.
All States Lighting Inc. was awarded the project.
Your Home’s Energy Mix MattersMaximize its Value with Natural Gas
Ahome is a major investment for any buyer or seller, and we at Lake Apopka Natural Gas District (LANGD) know how important it is for homeowners to maintain and increase their home’s value while maximizing appeal. One easy way to do so is by choosing safe, reliable, and affordable natural gas!
When buying or selling a home, many people tend to focus on factors like location, size, and curb appeal. However, another important aspect that can impact both the long-term value of the home and the daily comfort is the type of energy that powers the home.
Homes with natural gas consistently stand out in the real estate market. In fact, a survey by the National Association of Home Builders reported that homes equipped with natural gas appliances sold faster and for about 6-12% more. When considering the average home in Central Florida sells for approximately $400,000, that could mean tens of thousands more value for your property.
Such a big difference may seem surprising, but when you consider the benefits of a natural gas-powered home, it becomes clear why they’re generally valued higher. Natural gas offers a combination of appliance efficiency, reliability, and affordability that appeals to homeowners and buyers alike. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, natural gas is 3.5 times more affordable than electricity, meaning lower monthly utility bills, which makes it the ideal energy choice for any homeowner.
Natural gas appliances are also known for their spacesaving qualities, longevity,
and design flexibility. For example, tankless water heaters can be wall-mounted inside or outside and take up less room than traditional models, making them perfect for smaller homes or anyone looking to maximize square footage. And unlike other energy sources, natural gas is delivered through underground pipelines, making it more dependable during storms. Even in a power outage, gas-powered water heaters, cooktops, and generators can keep your home running smoothly.
All of this and more contributes to more longterm value for homes powered by natural gas. And with Florida consistently ranked among the fastestgrowing states in the country, energy-efficient features are becoming an even more important selling point. That’s why LANGD is proud to be growing alongside our communities, recently reaching the milestone of serving 30,000 customers across Apopka, Clermont, Winter Garden, and surrounding areas. This sustained growth reflects an increasing consumer confidence in natural gas as a reliable energy choice.
Whether you’re building, buying, or upgrading, it pays to think in the long term. Choose natural gas for a more reliable, more cost-effective energy solution that adds real value to your home.
To learn more about adding natural gas to your home or business, and how LANGD can support your energy needs, visit www.langd.org or contact our team at (407) 656-2734 or EnergyChoice@langd.org.
After accident, an act of kindness
Chris Chan knew something was wrong immediately.
It was Monday, July 7, and Chan, owner of Chris Chan Media, had just arrived at his office Monday, July 7, in downtown Winter Garden.
In the parking lot, he was met with ambulances, police officers and firefighters.
Within minutes, he learned what had happened.
“An elderly lady was trying to park her car; She was going to pay her bill over at City Hall there, and she was trying to park her car near our building,” he said. “And as she pulled in, unfortunately, she ended up kind of going into the power unit right in front of her.”
The woman had collided with a transformer and knocked the power out to the entire building at 360 Plant St. In addition to Chan’s company, the building is home to three restaurants, BurgerFi, Cilantro’s Indian Cuisine and Matthew’s Steakhouse.
“I’ve just never thought of anything like that happening,” Chan said. “So when it hit, it was wild.” Then, he saw her.
“She just looked like she had the weight of the world on her,” Chan said of the woman who crashed into the building. “And I just realized she probably just needed a friend at the moment, so I just kind of sat with her and just talked and prayed a little bit.
“I just kind of was there with her in the moment,” he said. “She was so apologetic and just very concerned for the businesses and sad that it had happened, but it was an absolute accident.”
In that moment, Chan decided
WHAT HAPPENED
After the crash on Monday, July 7, the entire building at 360 W. Plant St. was without power until Wednesday, July 9, when a generator was installed.
The building is home to three restaurants — BurgerFi, Cilantro’s Indian Cuisine and Matthew’s Steakhouse. All three lost clientele for two days and Matthew’s had to replace all its food with new product because of the outage.
being a human first was more important than rearranging his schedule, losing money from productions and live streams, or placing blame.
“That honestly helped me; I could have gotten so frustrated because I definitely did have a lot of meetings and a lot of live streams that I had to reschedule and stuff out of my production studio and money lost,”
Chan said. “But that’s OK. I found humanity there.”
Chan helped the police department get in contact with the land-
According to Chan, it can take up to another week or two to receive full power to the building.
In the meantime, Chan is encouraging residents to patronize the restaurants.
“Now, let’s come together as a community to support our local businesses here,” Chan said of the restaurants. “They lost about a couple of days here and some product. Maybe we can help make up for that by rallying together.”
lord of the building so he could be notified of the accident.
Then, Chan went to his social media to share the incident and ask for support in these trying times.
Currently, the building is running on a generator sent from Jacksonville while parts for the transformer are being ordered to restore full power.
Chan said the generator goes through four to five gallons of diesel per hour, bringing in a hefty price to pay for power. Full power should be restored in two weeks.
Life Time eyes Hamlin for second Central Florida athletic club location
Following a filing with Orange County, a company spokesperson confirmed the luxury athletic club is considering Horizon West for its next Florida location.
7-Eleven sparks outrage in Ocoee
During a July 10 meeting at the Lakeshore Center, residents raised concerns to city staff members and developers regarding a proposed gas station off Clarke Road.
SAM ALBUQUERQUE SPORTS EDITOR
Members of the city of Ocoee staff hosted a community meeting Thursday, July 10, at the Lakeshore Center to solicit feedback and listen to concerns from residents regarding a proposed 7-Eleven gas station and convenience store development at the intersection of Clarke Road and Ocoee Vista Parkway.
Residents of the area raised a variety of concerns during the meeting predominantly focused on safety, traffic, environmental considerations and a general belief that another gas station is not necessary in this neighborhood.
“I’m not (going to) belabor the point, especially because the developer is going to just build what they want to build,” said Joe Fana, a resident of a neighborhood surrounding the proposed gas station for 17 years. “But from the city’s point of view, I don’t think this is a good idea. … What happens is we’re seeing a lot of gas stations that aren’t aging well. And we could debate whether this could increase crime and those types of things, but it’s definitely a concern.
“Another major concern with this is traffic, specifically the access points being so close to the light on Clark,” he said. “If we do a double light, and we’re talking about the second light coming quickly on a downward hill, that’s concerning. And I think being so close to the firehouse is concerning, I see the fire trucks have issues getting out of that area all the time. There’s also the matter of the impending 80-plus homes that are going to built at the end of Ocoee Vista, I’m worried about how that will affect traffic.”
Other residents brought up concerns about how the development could pose an increased safety risk to school children who are picked up at their bus stop on that corner.
“I’ve heard from Commissioner (George) Oliver, and I hear it from you guys about the traffic concerns and safety issue,” said Trey Vick, CEO of V 3 Capital Group, the developers of the project. “To be clear, as a commercial developer, we want sites to function properly, too … getting in and out is important, and doing it safely is important. All that is stuff we do look at, and we’re fully in support of putting a traffic signal there. We’re more than happy to work alongside the city and help execute with our time and help drive that process to get it there quicker. … It does seem like with the activity in this area, it can make sense. We’d need to collaborate with staff.”
Because this is a small-scale development site on a property zoned for commercial use, the development application would be reviewed administratively and not by the City Commission. Because of this, the city is limited in its power to approve or deny this development, specifically in its ability to rule based on use. If the zoning of the property allows the use, then the city cannot stop the development based on that factor.
The application will be reviewed for its form and function — meaning it needs meet the standards set by the city’s land development code, specifically engineering standards, utility standards, transportation standards, open space standards and more.
“Upon review of the application, we have to look at the entitlements of the property and the commercial standards that were in place,” Assistant City Manager Mike Rumer said. “That’s what we’re held to, so we cannot say this can only be a small gas station or it can only be a large gas station or only be a 7-Eleven. We can’t say that it has to have a car wash or it can’t have one. We’re limited in what we can do. … If it’s permitted under its zoning, we don’t have a say in the use. What we have a say in is how function is formed, and those requirements may make the user not want to comply.”
Upon learning this, residents voiced even deeper disapproval of the gas station, suggesting for more needed developments to take its place. Vick explained the developer has been open to other options but this 7-Eleven proposal has been the only viable operator for the land in a decade.
“We hear it a lot: We don’t want this and we would rather have that,” Vick said. “But look, this site has been on the market for 10 years. … That’s 10 years of people that could have been alternative users, that could have come and done something else with this site. Put a restaurant on it, put up any other use you guys are talking about. So, all I’ll say is there has been lots of effort put into what this could be. There’s been other options that have been designed there, that’s been marketed to all the retailers that exist that could come here. This is the national retailer that has expressed the strongest interest to come here and build this product. So I can want to put anything here as a developer but if there’s not a demand out in the retail community to operate there, I can’t build it, or I would go broke. … So it’s not that we don’t listen to you; it’s not that we don’t care. We’ve been to the market … and this is the first national retailer that’s come here that’s been actionable.”
This development is still in the early stages of its review and Rumer reiterated no approval has been made. He urged residents to contact their elected officials with their concerns.
“This meeting is for staff to get your feedback, and I want to make it very clear: No votes have been taken on anything,” Rumer said. “Nobody’s looked at anything other than informally as part of the pre-application. You have two elected officials here, the mayor and the District 4 commissioner, that are both itching to talk — which they’re not allowed to talk tonight … about something that’s going to come before them at commission, that’s state law. I will encourage you, after the Q-and-A is over to seek them out and talk to them one-on-one and tell them what your issues are.”
foot sports and fitness facility in Hamlin.
The preliminary site plan for the proposed facility located at the intersection of New Independence Parkway and State Road 429 shows plans for an indoor athletic club, two out-
door pool areas and various outdoor sports courts. Although unconfirmed, the plans for the Hamlin athletic facility development resemble those of Life Time’s upcoming Winter Park facility. In a statement to the Observer, however, a spokesperson from the luxury athletic club company confirmed Life Time’s interest in expanding its reach in the area and that Hamlin aligns with its mission.
“We see strong potential in the Orlando market and continue to explore additional opportunities to bring our athletic country clubs to
more communities across the region,” said Dan DeBaun, Life Time’s public relations manager. “While it’s still very early in the process and we’re not yet at the stage to share detailed plans or timing, we are looking at a location in the Hamlin community, which is a vibrant, fast-growing, familyfocused community that aligns well with Life Time’s mission to help people live healthy, happy lives. Our Life Time Winter Park is also currently under construction and our plans call for a 2026 opening. We have a waitlist established for those interested.”
The brand’s first Central Florida location in Winter Park will feature a curated collection of more than 40 classes — ranging from yoga, cardio or strength training —each week led by world-class instructors in one of its four dedicated studios. Along with
its class offerings, one of the staples of
Time’s athletic country clubs is its recovery amenities and the Winter Park club will be no different, featur-
indoor courts and 10 outdoor courts, and will offer lessons, leagues,
LETICIA SILVA STAFF WRITER
Photos by Michael Eng
The building at 360 Plant St. currently is running on a generator. Parts to repair the transformer have been ordered.
Courtesy photo
Life Time locations feature luxury indoor and outdoor amenities.
The home at 5139 Passion Flower Way, Winter Garden, sold July 1, for $517,000. Built in 2025, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,011 square feet. Days on market: 53.
WATERMARK
The home at 14554 Winter Stay Drive, Winter Garden, sold June 30, for $700,000. Built in 2015, it has four bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 3,305 square feet. Days on market: 64.
WINDERMERE ISLE
The home at 8530 Vivaro Isle Way, Windermere, sold June 30, for $1,175,000. Built in 2018, it has five bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths and 4,061 square feet. Days on market: 34.
WINDERMERE TRAILS
The home at 9036 Arbors Edge Trail, Windermere, sold June 30, for $840,000. Built in 2017, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,835 square feet. Days on market: 140.
OCOEE
ADMIRAL POINTE
The home at 887 Lancer Circle, Ocoee, sold June 30, for $615,000. Built in 1997, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,951 square feet.
ARDEN PARK NORTH
Ahome in the Bayshore Estates community in Windermere topped all West Orange-area residential realestate transactions from June 30 to July 6.
The home at 10845 Bayshore Drive, Windermere, sold July 2, for $3,975,000. Built in 2013, it has four bedrooms, five baths and 4,665 square feet. Days on market: Five. The sellers were represented by Darrell Nunnelley, Vintage Really Group LLC.
These are the highestselling homes in each community in West Orange.
DR. PHILLIPS
DELLAGIO
The home at 8125 Via Vittoria Way, Orlando, sold June 30, for $1,420,000. Built in 2020, it has four bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths and 3,851 square feet. Days on market: 113.
EMERSON POINTE
The home at 5762 Emerington Crescent, Orlando, sold June 30, for $2,500,000. Built in 2024, it has five bedrooms, five-and-one-half baths and 5,138 square feet. Days on market: 24.
HIDDEN SPRINGS
The home at 5803 Cedar Pine Drive, Orlando, sold July 1, for $654,000. Built in 1985, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,273 square feet. Days on market: 48.
The home at 7549 Lake Marsha Drive, Orlando, sold July 2, for $615,000. Built in 1984, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,377 square feet. Days on market: 31.
MIRABELLA AT VIZCAYA
The home at 8348 Via Rosa, Orlando, sold July 2, for $841,000. Built in 2004, it has four bedrooms, four baths and 3,544 square feet. Days on market: 111.
SAND LAKE POINT
The home at 10119 Bayard Court, Orlando, sold July 2, for $605,000. Built in 1988, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 1,957 square feet. Days on market: 58.
HORIZON WEST
ENCLAVE AT BERKSHIRE PARK
The home at 13822 Darchance Road, Windermere, sold July 1, for $675,000. Built in 2007, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 2,769 square feet. Days on market: 12.
HAMLIN POINTE
The home at 16854 Hamlin Vista Alley, Winter Garden, sold June 30, for $545,000. Built in 2024, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 1,836 square feet.
INDEPENDENCE
The home at 14781 Old Thicket Trace, Winter Garden, sold July 2, for $618,000. Built in 2006, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,373 square feet. Days on market: 17.
LAKES OF WINDERMERE
The home at 12936 Freeman St., Windermere, sold July 3, for $528,000. Built in 2004, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,151 square feet. Days on market: 38.
LAKES OF WINDERMERE PEACHTREE
The home at 8555 Abbotsbury Drive, Windermere, sold July 1, for $630,000. Built in 2004, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 2,599 square feet. Days on market: 35.
MABEL BRIDGE
The home at 11412 Chateaubriand Ave., Orlando, sold July 1, for $875,000. Built in 2014, it has five bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths and 3,859 square feet. Days on market: 112.
OSPREY RANCH
The home at 12614 Clear Sapphire Drive, No. 137, Winter Garden, sold June 30, for $634,811. Built in 2024, it has four bedrooms, two-andone-half baths and 2,743 square feet. Days on market: 115.
The home at 15543 Gentle Rain Drive, No. 197, Winter Garden, sold June 30, for $672,114. Built in 2025, it has three bedrooms, two-andone-half baths and 2,500 square feet. Days on market: 42.
The home at 15585 Gentle Rain Drive, No. 191, Winter Garden, sold July 30, for $543,460. Built in 2025, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,200 square feet. Days on market: 18.
PALMS AT WINDERMERE
The home at 14415 Crest Palm Ave., Windermere, sold July 2, for $1,133,431. Built in 2025, it has five bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 3,764 square feet.
PEACHTREE PARK
The home at 8778 Peachtree Park Court, Windermere, sold July 2, for $974,900. Built in 2017, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 3,235 square feet. Days on market: 16.
The home at 8803 Peachtree Park Court, Windermere, sold June 30, for $799,000. Built in 2017, it has five bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,772 square feet. Days on market: 34.
SAWYER SOUND
The home at 5023 Sawyer Cove Way, Windermere, sold July 3, for $3,000,000. Built in 2020, it has five bedrooms, five-and-one-half baths and 4,421 square feet. Days on market: 33.
SILVERLEAF RESERVE
The home at 5319 Citrus Leaf Blvd., Winter Garden, sold June 30, for $875,000. Built in 2025, it has five bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths and 3,871 square feet. Days on market: 47.
The home at 5307 Citrus Leaf Blvd., Winter Garden, sold July 2, for $852,105. Built in 2025, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 3,300 square feet. Days on market: 33.
The home at 16417 Silver Brook Way, Winter Garden, sold July 2, for $769,905. Built in 2024, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 2,950 square feet. Days on market: 20.
The home at 1860 Black Maple Place, Ocoee, sold June 30, for $490,000. Built in 2020, it has five bedrooms, three baths and 2,326 square feet. Days on market: 34.
BROOKESTONE
The home at 1813 Sugar Cove Court, Ocoee, sold June 30, for $700,000. Built in 2003, it has five bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 3,850 square feet. Days on market: 182.
FORESTBROOKE
The home at 3442 Starbird Drive, Ocoee, sold June 30, for $497,000. Built in 2005, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,614 square feet of living area. Days on market: 93.
PRESERVE AT CROWN POINT
The home at 1888 Donahue Drive, Ocoee, sold June 30, for $700,000. Built in 2018, it has five bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 3,831 square feet. Days on market: 59.
VINEYARDS
The home at 2681 Cabernet Circle, Ocoee, sold June 30, for $525,000. Built in 2006, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,561 square feet. Days on market: Seven.
WYNWOOD
The home at 2111 Greenwood Oak Drive, Ocoee, sold June 30, for $512,990. Built in 2025, it has five bedrooms, three baths and 2,601 square feet of living area. Days on market: 13.
SOUTHWEST ORANGE
CYPRESS CHASE
The home at 9324 Pecky Cypress Way, Orlando, sold July 1, for $530,000. Built in 2005, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,784 square feet of living area. Days on market: 40.
WEST ORANGE
WATERFORD POINTE
The home at 13025 Water Point Blvd., Windermere, sold July 1, for $2,650,000. Built in 2001, it has four bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 5,764 square feet. Days on market: 29.
WINDERMERE
BELMERE VILLAGE
The home at 11878 Via Lucerna Circle, Windermere, sold July 2, for $600,000. Built in 2005, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,295 square feet of living area. Days on market: 24.
KEENE’S POINTE
The home at 9907 Beaufort Court, Windermere, sold July 1, for $1,750,000. Built in 2002, it has five bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 4,658 square feet. Days on market: 20.
The home at 11139 Camden Park Drive, Windermere, sold June 30, for $1,800,000. Built in 2004, it has five bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths and 3,759 square feet. Days on market: 49.
The home at 11345 Preserve View Drive, Windermere, sold July 3, for $1,140,000. Built in 2005, it has four bedrooms, four baths and 3,342 square feet. Days on market: 69.
LAKE DOWN CREST
The home at 9138 Pinnacle Circle, Windermere, sold June 30, for $1,225,000. Built in 1998, it has four bedrooms, four baths and 3,808 square feet of living area. Days on market: Seven.
MANORS AT BUTLER BAY
The home at 2538 Carter Grove Circle, Windermere, sold July 3, for $835,000. Built in 1996, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,523 square feet. Days on market: Eight.
WINTER GARDEN
AVALON RIDGE
The home at 16161 Barkly Ridge Court, Winter Garden, sold June 30, for $1,500,000. Built in 2024, it has six bedrooms, six-and-one-half baths and 5,424 square feet. Days on market: 86.
The home at 16033 Barkly Ridge Court, Winter Garden, sold July 1, for $839,000. Built in 2024, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,639 square feet. Days on market: 243.
CROWN POINT SPRINGS
The home at 1667 Spring Loop Way, Winter Garden, sold July 3, for $611,000. Built in 1993, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,007 square feet of living area. Days on market: 21.
CYPRESS RESERVE
The home at 14031 Jomatt Loop, Winter Garden, sold July 1, for $875,000. Built in 2019, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 4,105 square feet. Days on market: 84.
ESTATES AT LAKEVIEW PRESERVE
The home at 4717 Weatherbell Road, Winter Garden, Lake County, sold June 30, for $775,000. Built in 2024, it has five bedrooms, four baths and 4,278 square feet. Days on market: 88.
OAKLAND PARK
The home at 1071 Kershaw Drive, Winter Garden, sold June 30, for $1,170,000. Built in 2021, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 2,822 square feet of living area. Days on market: 13.
WATERSIDE AT JOHNS LAKE
The home at 17084 Harbor Oak Parkway, Winter Garden, sold July 2, for $560,000. Built in 2018, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,476 square feet. Days on market: 25.
WINTER GARDEN
The home at 632 Tildenville School Road, Winter Garden, sold June 30, for $564,000. Built in 1915, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,568 square feet. Days on market: 107.
Courtesy photo
The home at 10845 Bayshore Drive, Windermere, sold July 2,
This home is sited on more than 150 feet on Lake Down. The sellers were represented by Darrell Nunnelley, Vintage Really Group LLC.
Selecta Realty
Reginato, Selecta Realty LLC.
SPORTS
HIGH 5
1
Olympia High girls volleyball
rising senior setter Madison
Wehr announced her commitment to play college ball at Middle Tennessee.
“I want to give a huge thank you to Coach (Alexa) Keckler, Coach (Sarah) Gomish and Coach (Aaron) Hastings for blessing me with this amazing opportunity to do what I love at the next level,” she wrote in an Instagram post.
Wehr, a three-year starter for the Lady Titans, has racked up 1,773 total assists, 98 aces and 690 digs across her 239 sets played at the varsity level.
2
The First Academy golfer Mingbo Jiang narrowly topped recent graduates Cameron Baez, from Windermere High, and Shawn Coultoff, from West Orange High, for the Florida State Golf Association 71st Boys’ Junior Championship at Streamsong Golf Resort. Jiang, a rising senior for the Royals, finished with total score of 198 (-18) across the threeround, 54-hole event after a hot start, shooting a 63 (-9) in the first round. He held off both Baez and Coultoff — who tied for second place — by two strokes. The win means the TFA golfer punched his ticket to compete in the United States Golf Association’s Junior Amateur Championship from July 21 to 26 at Trinity Forest Golf Club in Dallas, Texas.
3Foundation Academy has announced changes to the leadership of its athletic department. Athletic Director and Director of Operations Robert East has been named the school’s Chief Operations Officer, while Assistant A.D. and Dean of Students Krystal Thomas-Smith will serve as the Lions’ next athletic director.
As COO, East, who has worked at the Christian private school for a decade in multiple roles ranging from academic and athletic administration to facilities operations, will shift his focus fully from athletics to enhancing the security, efficiency and beauty of all three of Foundation’s campuses.
Thomas-Smith, a former WNBA player and member of the Duke Women’s basketball team, has been part of the Foundation staff for the past five years, serving in a variety of teaching, coaching and administration roles during her time.
4Registration for the Windermere High boys and girls golf teams’ annual alumni and friends fundraising golf tournament is open. Open to anyone, the Windermere Alumni & Friends Golf tournament — which benefits the school’s golf and other athletics programs — will feature a variety of prizes and mini-games throughout and is slated to kickoff with a shotgun start at 8 a.m. Saturday, July 26 at the Legends Walk course at Orange Lake Golf Resort.
To register for the event, contact coach Eric Bacon via email at eric.bacon@ocps.net, or call and text (407) 282-4741. Registration can be done individually for $125 or as a foursome for $500.
5
Three area Little League teams — Windermere LL’s 10-12U baseball team and its 9-11U softball team and Dr. Phillips LL’s 9-11U baseball team — have claimed their respective Section 5 championships and advanced to the state championship tournaments.
ALL IN THE FAMILY
Squeeze Assistant General Manager Brian Koss is enjoying sharing this season of summer ball with his four children.
SAM ALBUQUERQUE SPORTS EDITOR
Growing up in the suburbs of Detroit, the game of baseball was passed down to Brian Koss like a family heirloom.
Whether it was his grandfather telling tales of rooting on the Honus Wagner-coached Pittsburgh Pirates in the 1930s or his dad making sure the family’s annual summer vacation always included a detour to an MLB stadium, baseball was stitched into the fabric of Koss’ life from the very start.
As the years passed, Koss’ love for the game continued to grow. Because of these experiences, a love for
SEE KOSS PAGE
Four more TFA football players commit to P4 college programs
With recent announcements from rising seniors Danny Odem, Devin Jackson, Lex Willis and Brian Williams Jr., the Royals now have a total of 10 players committed to D-I college football programs.
defensive lineman prospect Lex Willis, who announced he will play his college ball at Georgia Tech. The 6-foot-4, 255-pound rising senior chose the Yellow Jackets over NC State, Boston College and a heap of other P4 offers.
“Georgia Tech is an amazing school, from the city to the quality of education and the coaching staff — that have a lot of experience — it’s just a great situation overall,” Willis said. “It’s a place I want to be and a program that’s not just chas-
An Olympia High alum, Mason Mojica is back on the diamond in Orange County with the Winter Garden Squeeze after his first college baseball season. Page 2B.
Winter Garden Squeeze assistant general manager Brian Koss and his four kids have enjoyed spending the summer at the ballpark.
the
Courtesy photos
George, left, Brian and Providence Koss made the trip to Sanford for the 2025 Florida League All-Star game.
Koss’ two youngest daughters Rosie, left, and Briana Koss represented the Squeeze at their preschool.
2B
THE WEEK Mason Mojica
After his freshman season as a member of the Polk State baseball team, former Olympia High student-athlete Mason Mojica is back on the diamond in Southwest Orange playing for the Winter Garden Squeeze and his former high school coach Mike McDaniel.
As a senior for the Titans, the 6-foot-2, 215-pound catcher hit for an average of .360, drove in 23 runs and hit four home runs. In his first season of college baseball, Mojica appeared in 29 games — playing some first base along with catcher — hitting for a .265 average with two homers and 17 RBIs. Mojica recently announced he will be transferring to St. Johns River State College next season.
It feels great to be recognized for playing a sport I love.
What do you enjoy the most about baseball?
Being able to just go out and have fun with a bunch of guys and compete for something.
What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned from baseball?
You can’t cheat yourself in this game, and there are certain things that have to be done for you to perform. If you don’t take care of your body and things like that, you can’t expect to perform well.
What is your favorite baseball memory?
Hitting two home runs in the same inning when I was in high school.
Who is your favorite athlete?
My favorite athlete is Derek Jeter, because I enjoyed watching him when I was younger. He did it for the love of the game and not the money or the fame.
What is your go-to pre-game meal?
Ground beef and rice with some avocado.
What is your go-to pre-game hype song?
“Blame” by Calvin Harris.
What is your favorite non-baseball hobby?
I love playing golf.
THE
Age:
BASICS
18 Sport: Baseball College: St. Johns River State College Alma Mater: Olympia High
If you could have dinner with one person — dead or alive — who would it be?
Aaron Judge, because he is the best hitter in MLB.
If you could go back in time to a specific period in history, when and where would you go?
Probably the 1900s, because there were no phones, and you could just go outside and just have fun with all your friends and not have to worry about anything.
Looking back, what piece of advice would you give your younger self?
Keep grinding, because at some point, you won’t be able to play the game that you love anymore.
If you could ask your future self a question, what would it be? How far did we make it in baseball?
Who is your favorite superhero?
Probably the Hulk, because he’s very strong.
Who is your favorite supervillain?
The Joker, because I like his background story.
If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?
I would probably pick super speed, so I could travel the world.
If you could travel to three places in the world, where would you go and why?
Most definitely Rome, Dubai and a safari in Africa. You’re going to be around some of the most ancient artifacts in Rome; in Dubai, you get to be around some the richest culture in the world; and an African safari because all of the animals.
If you could be an animal for a day, which one would you be and why?
Definitely a panda, because they just seem cool.
Koss family shares special summer
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1B
game’s history and an educational path that helped him develop his skill with the written word, he decided take his passion for America’s pastime and do something more.
“Throughout undergrad and graduate school, I had to write a lot, so I always liked writing and researching, and I’ve always loved baseball, so I had just a ton of baseball knowledge and interest that I thought to myself I should do something with it,” he said. “I always felt, too, that I left baseball too early and that I could have kept being involved in the game beyond playing in high school and following it as a fan in college and as a young adult. I felt like I could have done more in the game, maybe as a player, but more so maybe I could have taken a different career track and gone on to work in baseball.”
a youth camp with Johnny Damon and the Squeeze at Veterans Park in Winter Garden, and I brought my son, George, who was only like 6 at the time. We connected at the camp, and I showed him all the work I was doing. We just hit it off and became friends, always talking baseball and sharing different ideas we had for each other. Then the next season, George became the batboy for the Squeeze, and since I was there every game with him, I’d write about the team.”
For the next two summers the Koss boys — George as a batboy and Brian as the Squeeze’s unofficial beat reporter — became more than family to the team’s coaches, players and staff. They became members of the Squeeze Squad, which is why it was a no-brainer for Bates to figure out who his first call would be to fill his vacant assistant general manager role.
super sports enthusiast,” Koss said. “But because she’s going into high school next year, she was looking for opportunities to volunteer, and this was a perfect place for her to do that. … And because there’s a lot of concourse space that’s also fenced in at Horizon it creates a nice area for kids to play, so my youngest two daughters have been able to enjoy the environment a lot, as well.”
Just as any parent with multiple children can imagine, finding an activity that satisfies all of the kids is nearly impossible, which is probably why Koss is so grateful to not only see them all enjoy themselves in the same place but also to do so at baseball games for an entire summer.
What is your most controversial
— SAM ALBUQUERQUE
That thought motivated Koss to get back into baseball in a real way. These days, he has been putting his knowledge of the game to good use as the co-owner, managing editor and podcast host for Legends on Deck — a one-stop shop for youth, collegiate and professional baseball content.
“At the time I started writing, I was in my early 30s,” he said. “I thought to myself that anybody who has a knack for writing can become a writer at any point given how media and technology has changed in recent years. … That’s kind of when I (dived) in on the idea of becoming a baseball writer and decided to make a go of this and start building something.”
Koss did exactly that. However, after almost a decade since this deep dive into the world of baseball began, he’s gotten the chance to do something beyond his expectations: Spend this summer sharing his passion for baseball with his four children, passing down the love of the game just as his father and grandfather did for him.
SQUEEZE SQUAD
Through relationships Koss built because of his work with Legends on Deck, he connected with Adam Bates, general manager of the Winter Garden Squeeze.
“Since launching the podcast, I’ve had the chance to connect with a lot of different baseball people, and one of them was Adam,” Koss said. “Back in 2022, he was running
“Fast-forward a little bit to this season and we find out … the Squeeze are going to play their games at Horizon High,” Koss said. “I was particularly enthused because I live across the street. After not being able to go to all the games last summer, the move was great, because I knew I could take George to every game and keep writing about the team. That’s when Adam asked me to join the staff as his assistant GM. He was like, ‘Well, you’re entrenched over here, and because you know the area so well you could really help us grow our presence with a newish audience.’”
“It was a no-brainer,” Bates said.
“He’s locked into to the team and the area, and having his son, batboy George as member of the family already just made it an obvious fit.
He’s a great baseball guy, a very talented writer with a great platform in Legends on Deck. And since the summer of 2023, we’ve done a lot together and become close so it was just a natural fit. When we moved out to Horizon, he was my first ask.”
When this opportunity presented itself to Koss, the benefits of it were obvious: Spend the summer with his son surrounded by not only the sport he loves but also a team that has become family. What wasn’t obvious to the father of four was that this new role would mean his three daughters would soon become the newest members of the Squeeze Squad.
“Obviously, George has been into baseball pretty much his whole life but my oldest, Providence, is not a
“I’m really lucky to be having this experience with my kids this summer,” Koss said. “Seeing my little ones out there having a great time playing with other kids and being part of the atmosphere is awesome. Having George not just be a batboy but also help out with his sister at the ticket stand or at concession has been fun. And even though Providence isn’t the biggest baseball fan, it’s been amazing to see her take on the responsibility and really enjoy the social atmosphere at games. We’ve definitely made games a family event that they really like to be part of, so I’m happy about that. Seeing all of them interested in spending time up there and being a part of this team. It’s been a fun experience to have everybody around and to be excited about going.”
For George, although he will forever be known in Squeeze history as ‘Batboy George’, he’s enjoyed the opportunity to help in different ways this season.
“It’s been so much fun to be a part of the Squeeze these past three seasons,” George Koss said. “This year, I’ve been able to help in different ways, too. Sometimes as bat boy, sometimes I take tickets with my sister. I really enjoy doing the raffle — walking around with the players and selling raffle tickets to fans. I just love being at the ballpark with the team, the interns, friends that come to the games and my sisters, too.”
As for the oldest Koss kid, learning new skills while working alongside the Squeeze Squad has been great a way to spend the summer.
“I’ve really enjoyed my experience working along side my dad, brother, Adam and the interns this summer,” Providence Koss said. “It’s been a great opportunity to learn how the games function. I’ve never been a big baseball fan, but these are really fun social outings and I’m learning new skills and responsibilities. I particularly like that the games are at Horizon, where I’m starting as a freshman in August.”
Courtesy photos
Spider-Man posed for pictures with the two youngest Koss children at a Winter Garden Squeeze game.
D-1 programs target TFA
two for a loss, three pass defenses, two interceptions and two forced fumbles in 10 games for the Royals.
Three-star wide receiver Brian Williams Jr., one of the newest members of the Royals football team, was the next TFA player to make his college commitment decision, choosing the Alabama Crimson Tide over Penn State, Florida and a load of other offers.
The 6-foot-4, 185-pound passcatcher was a key playmaker for the state runner-up Lake Mary Rams last season, catching 23 passes for 359 yards with five touchdowns. This season as a member of the Royals receiving corps, expect the big-bodied Williams Jr. to be featured often, opposite fellow Power 4 football commit Demetrice McCray — who announced his decision to play for the Pitt Panthers in May.
ing a conference title but are building toward competing for national championship. … That’s the type of program I want to be a part of.” With his length, speed and aggression, Willis has the ability to be a versatile player at the next level, playing both on the edge and tucked inside, that could allow him to see the field early on in his time with the program.
Following Willis’ commitment, TFA’s four-star defensive back prospect Danny Odem III announced his decision to play college ball for Nebraska — choosing the Cornhuskers over Ohio State, Penn State, Clemson and Oklahoma. The 6-foot-1 cornerback originally was committed to North Carolina but chose to reopen his recruitment following the firing of coach Mack Brown.
Odem III will add length,
To round out TFA’s quartet of commitments in a three-week span — from June 20 to July 3 — was one its highest-rated and soughtafter prospects. Devin Jackson, a 6-foot-3, 190-pound safety, chose to continue his academic and athletic careers on the other side of the country as a member of the Oregon Ducks football team. The four-star defensive back recruit chose the Ducks over Nebraska, LSU, Miami and Florida — Jackson was previously committed to the Gators but re-opened his recruitment in April.
“Having a head coach that knows the defensive side of the ball is big to me, it’s like having a second defensive coordinator,” Jackson said about why he chose Oregon. “Coach Lanning just showed me and my family a lot of hospitality and showed how much he cares about his players. All the players I spoke to about coach only have good things to say about him and how he develops his players on and off the field. And as a program, Coach Lanning has made
Oregon a winning program. Ever since he got there, they’ve been trending up each year to the point that the expectation now is to win a national championship. I feel like I’m going to join the program at the right time and during my time there we’ll have a legitimate chance to win a national championship. I’m just excited to come in and compete for starting spot.”
In 10 games as a junior, Jackson led the Royals with 80 total tack -
Orlando QB Shootout + Battle in
the Pit returns to West Orange
Hosted by Central Florida Christian Academy, the combined “campetition” brought together 252 student-athletes for a morning of football fun.
SAM ALBUQUERQUE SPORTS EDITOR
West Orange welcomed back the Orlando QB Shootout + Battle in the Pit — and the 252 participating student-athletes — for the 10th edition of the combined camp competition Saturday, July 12 at Central Florida Christian Academy. Led by Lo Wood, Collin Drafts and Aaron Jones II, the “campetition” brought together football players from every position for a day full of football, fellowship and fun.
“I feel like this was the best one yet,”
les, four interceptions and seven passes defended. He also picked up a forced fumble and two recovered fumbles in his first season at TFA, after transferring from West Orange High.
These four Royals join McCray, Clemson commit Chancellor Barclay, Illinois commit Kingston Shaw, FIU commit Sean Kentish, Air Force commit Blaze Jones and Colgate commit Gerard Gearity as TFA football’s current D-I commits.
Wood said. “We’ve definitely gotten better with time. … And we have figured out that bringing the two camps together makes this an event. It took us some years to figure it out, but as we’ve restructured the schedule and brought in more coaches, trainers and people that overall just want to give back to our kids, we’ve been able to really make this year the best one.”
One of the unique parts of the West Orange-based event is how it brings student-athletes from different age groups together on the same field, often allowing a middle schooler to be shoulder-to-shoulder with an elite college football prospect.
“Most camps try to separate middle and elementary school kids from the high-schoolers,” Wood said. “Not us. We like to make sure they’re together, because it allows for the younger kids to not only see what it takes to get to that next level, but it also gives them the motivation to keep working hard. There’s also a chance for the younger kid to learn and for the older guys to be leaders. They get a chance to coach these kids and talk to them about what it’s like. It also makes them step their game up, because they know there’s a kid looking up to them out there. That’s what I love about the camp; it brings everyone together.”
That’s not the only thing that made the 10th anniversary of the combined camp special. This year there was a new group of student-athletes on the field: girls flag football players.
“We’re always looking at the camp and asking ourselves, ‘What can we do to make this bigger and better?’” Wood said. “The answer to that question this year was bringing in girls flag football players for the first time, and they came out and went up against and competed with the boys. It was awesome.”
For Wood and the camp’s organizers and volunteers, the motivation behind coming up with ideas to continue to grow the camp is simple — the bigger the camp gets, the more they’re able to give back to the kids.
“We want to give back to these kids,” Wood said. “The bigger we’ve gotten, the more it’s opened our eyes to the good we can do. We’ve been able to raise money through this camp, and through the Aaron Jones Foundation, we give out that money to kids throughout the next year.
“That’s all we’re focused on doing — keep growing so that we can keep funding different youth organizations,” he said. “After this year, seeing the success with having
with us,
the girls
we’re talking about making this a two-day camp moving forward and looking to get up to about 500 athletes.”
Courtesy of Georgia Tech Athletics
TFA football rising senior Lex Willis donned the Georgia Tech gold uniform during a visit to the campus.
Sam Albuquerque
TFA football’s Danny Odem III (No. 8) split two defenders during a game against Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School.
Courtesy of Oregon Athletics
Oregon Ducks football coach Dan Lanning, left, and TFA football’s Devin Jackson formed the Oregon “O” during the rising senior’s campus visit.
Camp organizers Lo Wood, Collin Drafts and Aaron Jones II presented a scholarship check to student-athletes attending the 10th annual combined camp event.
Courtesy photos
Camp organizer Lo Wood spoke to a group of student-athletes during the 10th annual Orlando QB Shootout + Battle in the Pit combined camp.
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Go big or go home
Here’s how Avery Bangsund earned 22 varsity letters by the time she graduated high school.
AVERY BANGSUND
FOUNDATION ACADEMY
My original goal was not to become a 22-varsity letter athlete.
The first goal I set for myself was in sixth grade, where all I wanted to do was make the varsity soccer team. I moved schools in fifth grade, and at the time, I was playing club soccer. The school held an interest event for the sports it offered, and my mom took me just to take a look. I saw the school offered every sport available to any student once they were in sixth grade. I became interested in playing school sports and wanted to see what other sports teams I could participate in.
The driving factor — and what pulled me into playing other sports — was that my parents and other family members had all been a part of teams such as cross-country and track-and-field. Being the 11-year old self I was — and not really knowing what I wanted to pursue in life — I chose to try out and participate in the cross-country team, soccer team and track teams at my school. That decision, however, cost me my travel soccer team spot, because my travel coach would not let me participate in both club soccer and school sports. Unfortunately for him, I chose school sports.
My ultimate goal at such a young age was to do my best, because that was how I was raised, and try to make the varsity soccer team. When I reached sixth grade, I was blessed to be able to make the varsity team for cross-country, soccer, and trackand-field. I finished my sixth-grade year with three varsity letters — one from each varsity sport I played that year. By the time I finished eighth grade, I had nine varsity letters. For all three years of middle school, I tried out for the three sports I chose in sixth grade and made the varsity team for each sport every year. By this point, I knew that soccer was my passion, and I wanted to pursue that at the collegiate level. So, I began using the other sports as an opportunity to improve in aspects of my physical health to help me play better on the field.
By the end of my eighth-grade year, I realized I had an opportunity that most kids I know did not. I was earning three varsity letters a year, and I knew that had to be some sort of record — one I wanted to make sure I could accomplish. Also, but being able to hold some sort of record would be another factor in my life that would help push me to keep going even when times were tough and I felt like giving up.
I was on track to finish high school with 21 varsity letters. The last person I was able to find with a multitude of letters graduated with 16 letters. This motivated me to keep playing school sports, despite what most college coaches were telling me, saying that
without club soccer, I wouldn’t be able to accomplish my goal of playing collegiate soccer. In 10th grade, my weightlifting teacher came up to me and asked if I would be interested in joining the weightlifting team. I told her no, initially, because it was during the same season as soccer and that was my priority. Fortunately, she was persistent and continued to answer all my questions and work with me to create a schedule that would allow me to participate on both the soccer and weightlifting teams — while giving a majority of my time to the soccer team. I was sold, and when winter sports sign-ups came out, my name was on both the soccer and weightlifting teams’ tryout lists.
When I officially made both teams, the goal of graduating with 23 letters instead of 21 letters crossed my mind. I was already setting a high standard, but I told myself what my mom always told me, “go big or go home.”
Unfortunately, that dream was crushed when I tore my ACL, MCL and both menisci in my left knee during a soccer game my senior year. I was still blessed and grateful to graduate high school with 22 varsity letters, setting a record for both my school, the state and the country.
Over the years there were multiple moments where I wanted to quit a sport or I just felt like I wasn’t good enough. After I finished every sport and I was done with school sports, I missed it and I wish I could go back. It showed me that I have to work hard for everything in life, and I can’t take anything for granted. I won’t have the luxury of doing it forever. I am proud that I pushed through every hardship, because if I hadn’t, then I wouldn’t have been able to celebrate this accomplishment and everything that I have gone through to get to where I am today.
I hope my story inspires girls at any age to chase their goals no matter what, and hopefully one day, someone will pass the record I set. After all, I believe records are made to be broken.
Courtersy photo
Avery Bangsund holds the record for earning most varsity letters — 22.
Central Florida’s flair for the dramatic
Some of the summer’s best stage performances are available right here in the Orlando area.
Despite the dwindling time left in the summer, Central Florida’s performing arts departments refuse to dawdle.
For the remainder of the season, local theaters are committed to providing quality productions for their audiences. Don’t miss these astounding performances, coming to stages near you!
ORLANDO FAMILY STAGE
1Theater often has a profound impact on young people. That’s why the arts are used to help kids learn and grow — even as actors. Plus, it’s the perfect activity for families with an appreciation for fun and imaginative stories. Orlando Family Stage (orlandofamilystage.com), previously known as the Repertory Theatre, has delighted folks of all ages since its founding in 1926. The shows are all directed for younger audiences and have amazed viewers for decades. Youth classes and volunteering have allowed the whole community to become involved in the theater’s success.
This summer, Orlando Family Stage has many programs available
for babies, toddlers and preschoolers. Puppet Play Day: Peter Rabbit is an engaging experience for kids ages 2-5 and their parents. Children are able to craft and play with the support of experienced teachers on select dates throughout August and late July.
Young performers have dedicated their summer to Orlando Family Stage, as well. Youth Academy’s “Diary of a Wimpy Kid” will run for two weekends, starting Friday, July 18 and ending Sunday, July 27.
Based on Jeff Kinney’s popular book series, this performance is sure to be a hit among kids and families.
2
BREAKTHROUGH THEATRE COMPANY
Breakthrough Theatre Company (breakthroughtheatre. com), has resolved to give audiences a one-of-a-kind experience. A family-run theater in Winter Park,
Breakthrough Theater recently completed runs of “Queens,” written by Kristin Doherty, and “Little Women,” based on Luisa May Alcott’s famous novel. The theater is celebrating its 16th anniversary this summer.
Continuing with their impressive catalogue of summer shows, Breakthrough is performing “Mean Girls” by Tina Fey with actors in sixth through 12th grades. The show, which opened on Friday, July 11, will continue Friday, July 18 to Sunday, July 20. This heartfelt musical still proves its popularity since the original film in 2004.
THEATER ON THE EDGE
3
Theater On The Edge (theaterontheedge.org) aims to give audiences an up-close-andpersonal look at the performing arts. The venue has only 30 seats, specifically designed to combine the
best of theater and the movies. Theater On The Edge recently opened “The Sunset Limited” by Cormac McCarthy Saturday, July 5. The production will continue until July 27, so there is still time to grab seats.
4
ORLANDO SHAKES Orlando Shakes (orlandoshakes.org) has never failed to disappoint audiences with its meaningful and exciting productions. For the rest of the summer, the theater will perform “Anna in the Tropics” as well as “Music of the Bahamas.”
5
THEATRE SOUTH
PLAYHOUSE
Theatre South Playhouse (theatresouthplayhouse.org), located in the Dr. Phillips Marketplace, has enchanted audiences for more than a decade. Continuing with the earlier success of “Ride The Cyclone,” Theatre South has decided to perform this chilling piece every Friday, Saturday and Sunday throughout the summer. The show is scheduled to end its run Sunday, Aug. 31. The theater does not stop there, however. “Stranger Sings!” a thrilling musical parody of “Stranger Things”, opens Friday, Sept. 19. While getting back into the groove of school and work schedules, attending “Stranger Sings!” is the perfect way to unwind. The show will run throughout the early fall, ending its three weeks of performances Sunday, Oct. 5.
6
DR. PHILLIPS CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS
Perhaps one of the most renowned theaters in Central Florida, the Dr. Phillips Center for Performing Arts has housed countless productions, including musicals, concerts and Broadway tours. Since its opening in 2014, it has helped people throughout the state experience live theater in an unforgettable setting.
This fall, the Dr. Phillips Center is hosting the Broadway tour of “The Wiz”, an exciting take on “The Wizard of Oz” by L. Frank Baum. The musical began as a movie in 1974 that featured Diana Ross and Michael Jackson. It grew in popularity and quickly became a theatrical sensation, inspiring creative productions and recent revivals.
“The Wiz” comes to the Dr. Phillips Center Tuesday, Sept. 30 and completes its run Sunday, Oct. 5.
With so many great performances, it’s the perfect opportunity to see what the area has to offer.
“Music of the Bahamas” is a rich and inviting story of folk music from times of slavery leading up to the 20th century. It will run Saturday to Sunday, Aug. 2 and 3. “Anna in the Tropics” will run later in the season, starting Wednesday, Aug. 27 to Sunday, Sept. 21. “Anna in the Tropics,” written by Nilo Cruz, is an inspiring work that follows Cuban factory workers in 1920s Florida.
Courtesy Orlando Family Stage’s Youth Academy still stage “Diary of a Wimpy Kid” July 18 through 27.
enjoyed a day full of wet and wild fun Thursday July 10. During the camp’s carnival-themed week, campers headed outside to enjoy inflatables, carnival games, dancing, laser tag, wiggle carts and more. In addition, campers experienced arcade rooms, sensory rooms, sports like dodgeball, swim time, arts and crafts, and even a magic show.
Adriana Lipitz, Lincoln Lanks, Eloise Smith and Stella Bodillo waited their turn to ride the carnival ride.
Gideon Hodges and Daniel Helfgott had the time of their lives at camp.
Left: Kids enjoyed the tea cup ride at the carnivalthemed summer camp.
Jasper Bedwell was ready to go into the water inflatable course.
Lola Mogged, Ava Barbey and Caroline Shorrock were all smiles during Windermere Prep’s summer camp.
Right: Sofia Iznaga, Savannah Lewis and Madilyn Kuchinsky enjoyed the wiggle-carts together.
Ariana Cosiuc and Violet Lewis walked around the carnival inflatables and rides, looking for the next thing to do.
Right: Olivia Portal held herself upside-down with a big smile on her face.
SOBO’s art camp inspires creativity
as
Kate Schutz had a vision in
started painting her dragon. She said it was a fire-breathing dragon with swirls on it. When it breathes fire, it makes people go to sleep. Schutz, along with dozens of other campers, used metallic paint to make dragons during SOBO Art Gallery’s art camp Tuesday, July 8. The campers worked on various projects using different mediums. While painting their dragons, campers also took turns working on marble art.
Nature campers spend week at Frogwarts
OInspired by the Harry Potter books, ONP’s Frogwarts camp was filled with amazing discoveries and natural wonders.
While at Frogwarts, kids learned how ecosystems interact with one another, and also got up-close with frogs and crayfish, insects and wildlife.
Kids were placed into four different houses: Moonfeather, Whisperclaw, Ironscale and Nimblewing. They were placed in these houses based on characteristics, such as wisdom, perception, patience and more.
The campers also learned spells to duel with one another based on the educational material they were learning.
LETICIA SILVA
and
is
playing
Stella Bruehl and Celia Copeland held up their bags in which their wands go in, showing off their artistic skills.
Kenneth Resh-Clark put his head inside an alligator head at the Oakland Nature Preserve museum to showcase his bravery.
Right: Jacob Peek, a Harry Potter fan,
seen
duel with his wand
cape, in style for the camp’s theme.
mind
she
LIZ RAMOS
Ayden Huntington and James Schutz were hard at work painting their dragons.
Right: Mackenzy McAbee assisted Kate Schutz as she worked on her dragon, which Schutz said is a swirl dragon that breathes fire.
BillieJo Mustonen, certified teacher, was one of three art instructors at camp.
Ariana Castro showed off the water bottle she made in art camp the day before working on her dragon.
THE WAYS WE WERE FROM THE WINTER GARDEN HERITAGE FOUNDATION
85 years ago
Ad of the week: 1931 Chevrolet Sedan. A lot of service in this car for only $98. Williams Chevrolet Co., Winter Garden.
80 years ago
Much excitement in the Fairchild home as they received a long-distance call saying their eldest son, Master Sgt. Joe E. Fairchild, had arrived in the United States after quite a few months overseas. Word came from China that Elmer Youngblood, son of Mr. and Mrs. Ernest Youngblood, was promoted to first lieutenant. He was serving with the American Air Force and, incidentally, was growing a mustache.
50 years ago
Agnes Hunter, known as Aunt Juke and loved by folks in West Orange, reopened Sonny’s Country Kitchen in the Ocoee Shopping Center. She was out for surgery for breast cancer.
35 years ago
Dr. Phillips High School senior Brandy Davis returned from a trip to West Germany, where she rode the magnetic levitation test vehicle TR-07. She was the winner of a countywide Maglev Educational Company and was accompanied by Phyllis Robitaille, her science teacher; Don Shaw, executive deputy superintendent of Orange County Public Schools; and Jim Taylor, vice president of Maglev Transit Inc.
Among the Lakes Debutante Society entertained its mothers and daughters with a luncheon in the Lindbergh Room at Church Street Station. Guest speaker Christy Stilwell of Star Quality
The traveling Vietnam War Veterans Wall arrived in Winter Garden in July 2006. It was appropriately displayed at the Veterans of Foreign Wars property on East Plant Street. The wall is a 3/5 scale rendering of the Vietnam Memorial in Washington, D.C., stands 6 feet tall at the center and covers almost 300 feet from end to end. Two black granite walls are inscribed with the names of more than 58,000 service personnel who either died or were reported missing during the conflict. This traveling memorial stands as a reminder of the great sacrifices made during the Vietnam War. It was made for the purpose of helping heal and rekindle friendships and to allow people the opportunity to visit loved ones in their hometown who otherwise might not be able to make the trip to Washington.
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.
Studio and Universal Studios presented an informative program on etiquette and appearance. Debutantes and mothers in attendance were Missy and Sharon Shearey, Nancy and Pat Roshong, Lisa and Kerry Ott, Stacy and Linda Miller, Jana and Diane Stough, Angie and Joy Vannice, Alysia and Sheila Thompson, Janice and “Fig” Newton, Kim and Barbara Calhoun, Kerry and Mary Griffin, Cindy and Sharon Eickmann, Sharon and Alicia Dillon, Angy and Sue Ma-
cLarty, Alicia and Lee Davis, and Laura and Nancy McCrary.
Three local teens died and one was critically injured in a tragic car-bus crash at Lake Buena Vista. Killed were Joseph Bollinger, 19, of Windermere, and Gabe Delneky, 19, of Bay Hill, both Dr. Phillips High School graduates; and David Simon, 16, Orange Tree/Orlando, a DPHS student. Seriously injured was Barbara Rarden, 18, of Sand Lake Hills, a DPHS graduate.
30 years ago
Todd Parrish, once Student Council president at West Orange High School, worked his way up the political ladder, starting with an internship in State Rep. Richard T. Crotty’s office in high school and later acting as Florida campaign executive director for Pete Wilson for President.
THROWBACK
THURSDAY
JULY 17, 1942
The West Orange News frequently ran Florida Public Service Company announcements geared to local and American citizens. A 1942 advertisement titled “Woman’s Opportunity” shared the following: “What can I do to win the war?” millions of women ask as they sign up for jobs. “How can I pave the way to peace and preserve the Democratic ideal?” Women have gained much since their pioneering foremothers pushed back the frontier and bred a race of giants. And never has the door of opportunity opened so wide to the patriotic American woman. … Few occupations remain in which her services are not needed. Moreover, as the war makes increasing demands upon the nation’s manpower, willing women fill men’s shoes in the essential industries. This is one inspiring chapter in the all-out crusade to secure our liberty. … Electricity, a magic product of our superior system of
DON’T ROCK THE BOAT by Kareem Ayas, edited by Taylor Johnson
redpages@orangeobserver.com
Observer
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