09.03.20 Southwest Orange Observer

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Runnin’ down a dream

One Winter Garden couple is living their music dream as Gilly & The Girl. SEE PAGE 7.

Winter Garden approves three-story senior facility Neighboring residents were vocal in their opposition to the 166-unit development coming near Stoneybrook West Parkway.

AMY QUESINBERRY COMMUNITY EDITOR

PARADISE LOST Loud, alcohol-infused parties, illegal Jet Skis and littering have long turned Egret Island — also known as Bird Island — into the center of controversy in Windermere.

The Winter Garden City Commission listened to more than a dozen Foxcrest community residents at the Aug. 27 meeting, all of whom spoke against a proposed senior-living facility at Reaves Road and Stoneybrook West Parkway.

The developer wants to build a three-story independent living facility and two-story assist-living facility totaling 166 units, at 12910 Reaves Road, which would abut residents living on Dallington Terrace in

Parents, students fight sports decision

SEE FACILITY PAGE 7

Orange County Public Schools is not allowing programs such as JROTC, cheerleading and marching band and participate in football games this fall.

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Sarah Paquette, a marching band member and senior at West Orange High School, started a petition to bring back all fall activities.

AMY QUESINBERRY COMMUNITY EDITOR

Orange County parents and students reacted swiftly and strongly to Orange County Public Schools’ decision last week to allow varsity football games but exclude participation by the marching band, cheerleaders, dancers and JROTC. One student decided to do something about it.

Sarah Paquette, a senior at West Orange High School who plays marimba and is the percussion section leader, started a petition on change.org. In fewer than 48 hours, she reached her goal of 5,000 signatures. Earlier this week, the goal was raised to 7,500, and by Tuesday the number was above 7,100.

Folks who signed the petition also left comments, including a parent who said the decision is

Troy Herring

TROY HERRING | SPORTS EDITOR

J

ust off the shore where Fernwood Park sits in Windermere, an island has long been the center of notoriety through-

out the town’s history. Egret Island — also known as Bird Island — is only 10 acres.

Its only inhabitants are birds and other wildlife, but the human intrigue and stories surrounding the island are plentiful.

SEE ISLAND PAGE 4

Courtesy photo

SEE CULTURE PAGE 4

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THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2020

Island issues said a conversation took place between the man who crashed the Tales of underage alcohol use, Jet Ski and responding officers. The partiers leaving trash and the man claimed he had rented the Jet illegal use of rented Jet Skis and Ski and had no idea how to drive it. other watercraft are local lore, said Then, a woman appeared to claim Windermere resident and activist it was hers and that she had let him Richard “Dick” Radkewich. borrow it.

“It’s unbelievable how this thing The semantics may not seem keeps going,” Radkewich said. important, but they are indicative “The only thing that has changed of one of two issues plaguing the is that the culture has changed. Butler Chain for years: the illegal People say, ‘I have the right to get watercraft rentals and the illegal an $88,000 Ski-naughton, put the use of the town’s boat ramp. speakers up, take my clothes off “We do not allow commercial and dance in the shallows of Bird activity from our town-owned Island.’ I’m not against having fun. ramp,” Andert said.

I’m worried people are going to get The boat ramp at Fernwood killed, and they are.”

Park is the only ramp owned by the town. The ramp on Lake Down, run JET SKIS, BOAT

by Orange County, allows for charRAMPS AND PARTIES ter business but not rentals — and One afternoon in July, a man on a a resident wanting to boat on ButJet Ski was involved in a one-man ler Lake must obtain a key for the crash by the island. town’s ramp.

“A Jet Ski came flying around Another concern is the human the corner of the island so close toll on the island itself. he nailed a nice boat that was “What’s happened is that the anchored up,” said Chad McGhee nature of recreation boating has in a post in the Bird Island, Butler changed,” Radkewich said. “This Chain of Lakes Facebook group. isn’t recreation boating. This is “There were dozens of people people using a boat to go some swimming on the other side of place, form a flotilla and engage in the boat that probably would have party-like activities.” been killed or injured if it weren’t Radkewich also maintains for the boat taking the hit.” minors are consuming alcohol.

The incident occurred a little “I can surmise that it happens over a year after Nickaloy Dunstan out there — I drive by the island all Thomas was hit and killed by a boat the time, and I live on the lakes,” off Bird Island.

Andert said. “We used to — when I In this latest incident, the Jet Ski first moved here — take my kids out began to sink before it was towed, to the lakes and anchor next to Bird said Windermere Councilwoman Island. … We used to go out there, Liz Andert — also the council liai- but it’s way too dangerous (now).” son for the Butler Chain of Lakes The issues not only are affecting Advisory ORHE-0204 Committee.

But before it the island but also town,9:39 Mayor ER_ObserverMedia_Halfpg_HW_PRESS.pdf 1 the 5/6/20 AM was recovered and taken, McGhee Jim O’Brien said.

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“People will return from the island, and they’ll have been drinking all day,” he said. “So when they get to the park to get their cars, we have issues there. We’ve had young people who have had alcohol poisoning, and there’s been altercations and different things like that.”

JURISDICTIONS AND PROBLEMS

Here’s the rub: The town of Windermere has no jurisdiction of the water or Bird Island. In 1958, the island was deeded to the Florida Audubon Society by Frank Chase and the Chase Company. Meanwhile, the waters are under the control of the state, although Orange County was granted authority to enforce law and patrol the area.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission has limited numbers to send out on patrols, Andert said.

The town has a group of volunteer, off-duty officers called the Butler Marine Patrol funded by the Butler Chain of Lakes Advisory Board. That money comes through a Municipal Service Benefit Unit, paid by those who own properties on the lake.

“There is a good amount of money in that MSBU,” Andert said.

“If our residents had more awareness and had a say, I think they would probably prefer that some of that money go toward the Sheriff’s Office having more patrol presence out there.”

The Butler Chain of Lakes Advisory Board has an average budget of $7 million, with $203,000 going toward the general expense allotted to the Butler Marine Patrol and patrolling activities.

At one point, the town researched annexing the island.

“The reality is that the island itself, and the amount of people … using the lake and using the island, has become a burden on the town,” O’Brien said. “We don’t have the financial ability to provide a police officer just for the boat ramp without the assistance of those off-duty funds, and we’ve worked in partnership with FWC and the Butler Chain of Lakes Advisory Board for a long time to be allowed to use some of those funds to better enforce the rules and regulations.”

A CALL FOR SOLUTIONS

Orange County District 1 Commissioner Betsy VanderLey brought forward the subject in the County Commission meeting Tuesday, Sept. 1.

“The party has gotten out of control,” she said. “(But) we have potentially crafted a solution that will allow residence to enjoy the lake and eliminate the party atmosphere that has become so increasingly dangerous.”

The solutions — outlined by Liz Johnson of the county’s Environmental Protection Division — include creating a designated swimming area and a limit on the rafting of boats.

The designated swimming area would require the submission for a new waterway marker permit and submit an ordinance for the swimming area — a process that could take six to nine months. Once approved by the FWC, it would take around three months to select a vendor to create and install the buoys.

Along with the permits, Chapter 8 of the Orange County Code would need to be updated and revised. That process would take an estimated six to 12 months, Johnson said.

The process — while lengthy — is necessary, VanderLey said.

The County Commission approved VanderLey’s request unanimously.

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Windermere residents say parties such as this one have resulted in multiple problems for the community.

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The town approved interlocal agreements pertaining to jurisdiction of Oakland Avenue and Old County Road 50, and the roundabout slated for that intersection.

AMY QUESINBERRY COMMUNITY EDITOR

The Oakland Town Commission approved at the Aug. 25 meeting two interlocal agreements with Orange County Government — one that transfers the jurisdiction of Oakland Avenue and Old County Road to the town; and another that deals with the construction of a roundabout planned on the west end of Oakland Avenue.

Town Manager Steve Koontz gave presentations on both agreements.

Oakland Avenue/County Road 438 is classified as a county road, but the road, together with a small segment of Old Highway 50, functions as a town road. The county asked to transfer jurisdiction of the road to the town, and the town has agreed, because it will allow Oakland to control future improvements to the road.

“While we (the current commission) are in place … this will allow us to maintain the quaint small-town feel of this road,” Mayor Kathy Stark said. “I know residents are concerned about that.”

The second agreement pertained to the future roundabout at the intersection of Old Highway 50, Oakland Avenue and J.W. Jones Road north of West Colonial Drive.

The roundabout will alleviate some of the traffic constraints and enhance the safety of the intersection.

The state has allocated $1.2 million for the project for the 2020-21 fiscal year, and the town and county will each budget $700,000 for construction costs and will share any costs that exceed state funding equally.

Once the project is completed — around May 2022 — the town will accept jurisdiction and maintenance of the roundabout.

IN OTHER BUSINESS n Estid Lima, of the Oakland Police Department, has been promoted to the position of sergeant, and Police Chief John Peek presented the newly promoted officer to the Town Commission. Lima’s wife, Andrea, pinned on his badge.

Lima has been with the OPD for three-and-one-half years and last year was promoted to corporal. n The commission approved two resolutions. The first removes the exemption of annexation fees for enclave properties requesting annexation into the town. The other changes the town’s retirement plan to Florida League of Cities. n Elected officials passed the second reading and public hearing of an ordinance that sets restrictions on construction work. Construction is permitted from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. weekdays and 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturdays. It is not permitted anytime on Sundays, or legal and national holidays. n Oakland Avenue Charter School Principal Pam Dwyer gave an update on the first few days of school. She said there were about a dozen families who had selected OACS at Home as the education option for their children but were reconsidering their decision. She gave parents until Monday evening to make a decision, and she reported all of their children returned to campus the following day. n Town Manager Steve Koontz updated the commission on the U.S. Census in Oakland. The state’s overall response record is 61%; Oakland stands at 60.8%.

Oakland residents are being asked to fill out the census so the town can benefit from federal funds for roads, schools, housing and social programs. n Koontz also discussed the town’s remaining activities for 2020. The Volunteer Appreciation Dinner has been moved to spring. The annual heritage festival scheduled for Nov. 14 has been postponed, and the town is hoping to replace it this year with a soft opening of the Healthy West Orange Arts and Heritage Center at Oakland. And Light Up Oakland and Santa Day will be modified, but town officials have not solidified plans as to what the day will look like.

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FOOD FIGHT

Fabrizio Schenardi — executive chef at Four Seasons Resort Orlando — appeared on a recent episode of Food Network’s ‘Beat Bobby Flay.’

TROY HERRING SPORTS EDITOR

D

uring his life as a chef, Fabrizio Schenardi has been on television many times, but this one was different.

The Winter Garden resident — who serves as the executive chef at Four Seasons Resort Orlando — recently in an episode of the Food Network’s “Beat Bobby Flay.”

Most people would have been nervous, but Schenardi said he was excited to try something new.

“I was relaxed when I went,” Schenardi said. “It was more of a curiosity for me than anything else; I just wanted to see what was going on and what they do, that’s it, that was my goal — it wasn’t to compete or anything else, it was just more for the fun part.

“It was very cool, because then obviously you get to know Bobby Flay, the other chef and other people around,” he said. “It was a cool thing to do.”

“Beat Bobby Flay” is a cooking competition where chefs get the chance to compete against celebrity chef Flay in front of a live-studio audience on national television. The show’s popularity has helped lead it to a long run on the Food Network, and it’s currently in its 25th season.

The episode featuring Schenardi was filmed last November but aired Sunday, Aug. 23. And although it all looks easy, the process of even getting on the show is quite exhausting, Schenardi said.

Schenardi had been contacted in the past about making an appearance on the show but was too busy to commit. Eventually, Schenardi found time in his

Courtesy photo

“I just wanted to see what was going on and what they do, that’s it, that was my goal — it wasn’t to compete or anything else, it was just more for the fun part.”

— Chef Fabrizio Schenardi

schedule, but what followed was an exhaustive process of obstacles.

Schenardi sent his résumé and paperwork, before going over dish specifics and information about his life. A short time later, Schenardi flew to New York City where, on the second day of his trip, he was up at 5 a.m. to prepare for the show to be filmed that day.

Schenardi recalled it was a whirlwind of moments — which included meeting everyone on the show, including Atlanta-based chef Jessica Gamble, who Schenardi would have to beat in the first round if he wanted to take on Flay.

“They show you around and what’s going on,” Schenardi said.

“They take you into the studio a little bit early, and they tell you what you can do and cannot do.

The only thing they asked you before the show was what you liked to cook and what you don’t like to cook — in case you pass to the second phase of the show.”

Chefs are given everything they need to work with, as well as a

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secret ingredient that is revealed at the beginning. Schenardi and Gamble’s secret ingredient was bulgur wheat — a cereal food made from the cracked parboiled groats of several different wheat species, most often from durum wheat.

For Schenardi — who was born in Rivoli, Italy — the secret ingredient, which originated in Middle Eastern cuisine, wasn’t something he used often.

“I don’t use bulgur wheat very much — I’m not crazy about it, let’s put it that way — and then when you see it it’s like, ‘Oh boy, why this?’” he said. “But you do the best you can and that’s it. You have very little time to do it and then you’re like, ‘OK, what am I thinking,’ and then you think one thing and then it’s something else — all of a sudden you’re like, ‘Maybe it’s better if I do something different.’ You change your mind and you lose a little bit of time. … Then you move on obviously, because you don’t have time to reflect on the whole thing.

“You have to move on,” he said.

“It’s a different feeling than when you’re in the kitchen — it’s a different type of pressure.”

Schenardi fell in the first round to Gamble — who eventually lost to Flay in the second round. Still, the experience was worth it.

“I enjoyed meeting Bobby Flay — he was an interesting guy,” Schenardi said. “It was interesting to see the Food Network — how they work and how they do things. Overall, it was a very good experience.”

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Oakland plan for roundabout progresses

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Decision debate taking away the opportunity for seniors to have this on their résumé for college and also takes away valuable time to be practicing if they want to continue their passion for dance, music or cheer in college. Another parent was disappointed that social distancing is being stressed yet the only contact sport is being allowed. A former football player said the band meant everything to the football team.

The overall message is this: Arts are equally as important as sports.

Either they all play, or no one should play.

Parents also banded together on a new Facebook page called OCPS Parents: “All for One, One for All” for Friday Nights Lights.

“Inclusiveness and fairness for all clubs and organizations to fully participate in Friday Night Lights is our goal,” the Facebook page states.

On Monday, Aug. 31, the city of Orlando gave organizers approval to hold a rally promoting the inclusion of all students under the Friday Night Lights. The event was scheduled for 3 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 2, at Lake Eola. All OCPS high schools were invited to participate and bring posters, arrange performances and wear their school colors.

other solutions to this problem beside canceling other groups and picking winners and loser amongst our children.”

“I respectfully ask that you reconsider your decision and implement some creative solutions that will allow all students to be a part of Friday Night Lights,” she wrote. “Otherwise, it is simply a biased choice to support one group of students over the other.

Everyone has already lost so much, and it would be such an unnecessary shame for our kids to lose even more.”

She praised the WOHS principal, Matt Turner, who she said has vowed to create other events for students of the arts.

In a weekly update to parents Friday, Aug. 28, Turner wrote: “Many of you have heard about the exclusion of band, dance, cheer and ROTC from varsity football games, but I wanted to let you know that I met with all of the leaders of our arts program this afternoon, and we will be working diligently in the coming weeks to creatively design opportunities to ensure that our students are given additional opportunities to participate in similar but socially distanced events.”

“We just want our voices to be heard and our children’s voices to be heard,” Tozzi said.

LET THEM ALL PLAY

DEVASTATING FOR EVERYONE

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

The hashtag phrase #LetThemAllPlay began circulating following the OCPS decision.

Patti Tozzi, whose daughter, Sydney, is a senior on the WOHS dance team, wrote a letter to OCPS Superintendent Barbara Jenkins, requesting she reconsider the decision.

“All football locations are open air, which, with social distancing and mask-wearing, there is very little chance of spread of COVID-19,” Tozzi wrote. “There are

Phillip Pacheco’s daughter, Caitlyn, is a senior cheerleader at Windermere High School. Although he understands the 25% capacity decision, he thinks students should be the ones filling the stadium seats. Per the OCPS decision, each football player can have two people in the stands.

“This is devastating for everyone, but the focus should be for the seniors,” he said. “If you can’t have the whole band, dance team, cheerleaders, allow the seniors.”

SARAH PAQUETTE’S PETITION “Marching band, cheer and dance are all activities that students in OCPS look forward to participating in all year. The School Board has recently decided to cancel these arts, while continuing with the football season. This is a devastating blow to not only the students, but the community.

“Both football and music players receive scholarships, and while football is a contact sport, fall arts such as marching band are not, and can be altered to adhere to CDC rules regarding social distancing and masks. Band, cheer and dance are more than disposable sources of entertainment. Those programs are home to so many brilliant students, who dedicate the same passion and time as football players every year.

“There is no reason why hundreds of students will never experience their 20-21 fall season, while football is allowed to continue.

We urge the OCPS School Board to modify their decision, where both sports and arts are being treated equally.”

SOCIALDISTANCING SUGGESTIONS Parents have many ideas that would allow everyone to participate in the Friday night football games: n Band members sit in chairs spaced apart along the track area or beyond the end zone. n Cheerleaders and dancers perform 6 feet apart with masks. n Band, cheer, dance and JROTC only perform at home games. n Provide extra bleachers and allow spectators to take outdoor lawn chairs to spread out attendees. n Limit spectators to home team only; use visitors stands for band or other spectators. n Parents of these groups can enter a lottery to be a spectator or opt not to attend so more students can attend. n Give preference to seniors for Friday night activities. n Alternate who plays or performs each week, giving equal treatment to seniors in football, band, cheer, dance and JROTC.

Pacheco said Caitlyn is disappointed at the thought of not being allowed to cheer or be part of the football games.

“As much as I want it to be for everyone, we need to protect the seniors and their experiences and get them as many experiences as we can,” Phillip Pacheco said. “My heart breaks for the seniors.”

Sarah started the petition the night she learned marching band would not be performing at the games.

“I waited for someone to start something or say something, but no one did — so I did,” she said.

Supporters began signing her petition immediately. Sarah said she received an email from Ken Boyd, her band director, and he told her the band will be filming a performance of some kind.

“They’re allowing some parts of band to take place, like virtual recording,” she said. “If there ends up being an obvious difference in treatment in football and band, I am presenting this to the School Board. But I’m letting them know I have this petition.”

ADDRESSING CONCERNS

OCPS and issued a press release Aug. 28 stating the district is following the schedule provided by the Florida High School Athletic Association.

“Additional determinations were made in the interest of student safety while not hindering opportunities for athletes to receive college scholarships,” OCPS wrote. “It is important to note that competi-

tive cheerleading is a winter sport. … Band students achieve scholarships through other means and have not been preparing for halftime shows this year. Due to the current limitations being placed on attendance, several opportunities are being developed at high schools to promote school spirit and allow participation by bands, cheerleaders, dance teams, JROTC, etc.

Thanks to principals, board members, band directors and others for developing creative solutions.”

OCPS listed alternative opportunities, such as videotaping pep rallies in the stadium prior to each football game and broadcasting them to the student body on game day, prerecording band performances and playing them over the loudspeakers during the game, and video recordings of student performances will be shown on scoreboards during selected games.

Michelle Territo’s daughter, Josie, is a senior and one of the three drum majors in the West Orange marching band.

“I heard back from a couple School Board members, and one of them said they picked football so those kids wouldn’t miss out on college scholarship opportunities,” Michelle Territo said. “Well, the same goes for musicians and cheerleaders. If they miss this year and don’t get this experience, they could miss out, as well. … Both my husband and I are professional musicians; it’s how we make our living. ... I got a scholarship to go to college for music when I was my daughter’s age, so to say it’s important for the football players to play due to possible scholarship is a complete oversight of the student musicians and cheerleaders who are working towards that same possibility.”

When OCPS was asked if it might reconsider its decision based on the opposition from students and parents, Michael Ollendorff, manager of media relations, replied on Monday: “At this time, no changes are expected to be made. But, if we open safely and successfully we might be able to make additional considerations in the future.”

“I’m for the football players playing,” Michelle Tozzi said.

“They are amazing; we absolutely support them. … Friday Night Lights is part of the American culture, (but) it is not just football. We know that without football, none of it would be there, but they go together. It’s offensive and inappropriate to leave kids out of the game.”

The principals at the five public high schools in West Orange County were asked to comment.

Two deferred questions to the OCPS district office; three others did not respond. Several band directors also declined to comment.

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County considers 10 homes off Reams Road The neighborhood would be developed on 4.9 acres south of Summerlake Park Boulevard in Horizon West.

DANIELLE HENDRIX ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Orange County officials are seeking public input on a proposed project along Reams Road that would allow for construction of up to 11 homes.

The 4.9-acre subject property — known as the Sant PD — is located at 14231 Reams Road, just south of Summerlake Park Boulevard. Applicant Sam Sebaali, of Florida Engineering Group, is requesting to rezone the property from Rural Residential District to Planned Development District.

He also is requesting to change the property’s greenbelt designation to Estate Home District on the Special Planning Area map of Horizon West. Both would allow for construction of up to 11 singlefamily homes, although current plans call for 10.

A greenbelt is a policy and land-use designation used to retain areas of largely undeveloped or agricultural land surrounding or neighboring urban areas.

Horizon West is considered a Special Planning Area, and the county implemented both greenbelts and Transfer of Development Rights for each village as a way to maintain and enhance the area’s environmental resources.

Because of surrounding wetland areas, there are only 3.96 upland developable acres of the 4.9 total acreage. The residential project is proposed at three dwelling units per acre and are to be located only on the greenbelt portion of the property.

The county hasn’t been able to hold in-person community meetings for a few months now due to the coronavirus pandemic. However, it has been providing a community-review period with information related to applicants’ requests shared through a web folder.

In the online informational presentation, County Case Planner Nathaniel Wicke said the request is using the Reams Road corridor policy listed of the county’s county comprehensive plan.

“Per this policy, the uses within the corridor (will) be limited to residential uses, are limited to areas currently designated as greenbelt on the Special Planning Area map, and are limited to a maximum density of six dwelling units per acre,” Wicke said. “Additionally, all residential requests (will) be subject to a Planned Development Review. This request is consistent with the requirements of this policy as the planned development has been submitted for review and only includes residential uses.”

Current plans call for 10 homes, eight of which would be on 50-foot-by-144foot lots. The remaining two would be on 57-foot-by-144-foot lots. There are no wetland impacts proposed.

According to the applicant’s development plans, the homes have a proposed full-access roadway connection to Reams Road. However, the plans state, future access will be dictated by the Reams Road conceptual analysis and final design.

The homes also would have a roadway connection to the Lake Reams neighborhood to the north and access to the south property. At the eastern end of the property, the roadway culminates in a cul-desac.

“The applicant’s requested single-family residential use is similar in nature to surrounding properties and is consistent

with the Reams Road corridor policies,” Wicke said.

The community-review period will remain open until the case goes to the Planning and Zoning Commission at a date yet to be determined.

“We have received a few responses from the community so far,” Wicke said. “Those who have responded have primarily been in opposition and expressed concerns related to … development, traffic, environmental impacts and flooding.”

Courtesy

The subject property is located just east of Reams Road and south of Summerlake Park Boulevard.

As of press time, no date has been set for the Sant PD’s public hearing in front of the Planning and Zoning Commission. To view the informational presentation notice, visit bit.ly/3gnaAMR. The informational presentation, conceptual plan and feedback form can be found in the county’s web folder at bit.ly/2YuV1MY.

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INFORMATION

OBSERVED

6

OBSERVER

|

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2020

Culture canceled: What was OCPS thinking?

MICHAEL ENG EDITOR & PUBLISHER

Y

ou would think we’d have learned by now: Conventional wisdom doesn’t apply to 2020.

So of course, Orange County Public Schools would decide football — which requires not only physical contact but also physical contact among students from different schools — is safe to play, while marching band, dance teams, cheerleading and JROTC are not.

In any other year, you’d think this was a joke. But trust me when I tell you: No one is laughing.

OCPS presented its latest comedy of errors in two acts.

The first (see page 1) — which outlined stadium-capacity limitations and the exclusion of marching bands, cheerleaders, dance teams and JROTC squads — had thousands of parents looking for Ashton Kutcher and the “Punk’d” camera crew.

Following a brief intermission, OCPS delivered its second decision (see page 19) directly to parents and coaches: Football players will be restricted from face-to-face instruc-

tion and must choose either to take online classes or be quarantined in a campus “bubble,” where they will take classes via OCPS’ “innovative” LaunchEd@Home@SchoolBubble (patent pending).

There are so many tendrils to this specimen of ridiculousness that it makes you wonder: How did we get here? And seriously, is this a joke?

But then you remember: Oh yeah, 2020. And you recall, just mere weeks ago, the circus sideshow OCPS performed to determine how and when the 2020-21 school year would begin. Parents were given one starting date (Aug. 10), then another (Aug. 21). And then, once parents adapted to the new start date, OCPS uttered a collective, “Psych! School will start Aug. 10, after all. Oops. Our bad.

But remember: We said fluid!”

Now, we have the district’s Friday Night Lights rulings — its most embarrassing conclusions yet.

That second decision — the one about the football players not being able to take faceto-face classes — was relayed Friday, Aug. 28. With players set to begin practice Monday, Aug. 31, that gave families no time to provide input or present alternatives. Perhaps by design?

At first glance, the decision seems to have merit. If successful, it could minimize exposure between football players and the rest of the student body. And the NBA, MLS and NHL all have used the bubble successfully.

However, what OCPS failed to realize is that its football bubble will pop at the end of every single school day. What happens when the players leave campus?

What happens when they return home to their family members — none of whom have been bubble-fied? What happens when they go to their part-time job at Publix?

And amazingly, that’s the lesser of these evils!

Let’s dive into the mandates regarding who will be allowed at these football games. According to OCPS Chief of High Schools Dr. Harold Border, the district will cap attendance at 312 people per game. And how did the district arrive at this number, you ask? According to Border, 312 is 25% capacity of the district’s most-common stadium size. This is the number that will be used regardless of actual stadium size. Sorry, West Orange Warriors and Dr. Phillips Panthers fans: Despite Raymond Screws Stadium’s 6,000 capacity and Bill Spoone Stadium seating 6,600, you, too, will be capped at 312.

And last, but certainly not least, we arrive to the inexplicable blanket rejection of marching bands, cheerleaders, dance teams and JROTC squads at Friday night games. Instead, the district is once again “innovating” — this time by suggesting these groups perform at a pep rally the night before each game.

That event then could be viewed the next day during lunch or on the scoreboard at the games.

O … K … But has anyone at the district considered the equipment, time, resources, skill and budget needed to produce something watchable — especially if said performances are to be screened on a scoreboard in the end zone?

However, technical limitations aside, that “solution” ignores the district’s most important job: educating students to become contributing members of our community.

Like football players, many student musicians and dancers seek scholarships. Every artist knows there is a difference between performing for a video camera and a live audience.

The decision to take away the opportunity to perform in front of people will change the trajectory of some students’ futures.

The district responded to this concern — via a press release written in first person but without a name. And it’s easy to see why: Who would want to claim ownership of these words?

“To my knowledge, there are no scholarships that directly result from a student being recognized for their accomplishments in marching band,” the author wrote.

This OCPS leader would have you believe participation in marching band does nothing to make a student a better musician, leader and human being (and thus a more qualified candidate for scholarships). And a quick Google search will reveal dozens upon dozens of (gasp!) marching band scholarships.

When parents pressed Border for the process of arriving at these decisions, he said district leaders collaborated with school principals and studied decisions made by universities and professional leagues. He said they also examined decisions by other school districts. But apparently, those didn’t include their closest neighbors.

According to Osceola County School District Public Information Officer Dana Shafer, Osceola stadiums will have 50% capacity, masks required.

Cheerleaders will be socially distanced. The home team marching bands will perform on the track behind one of the end zones.

To the northeast, Seminole County Public Schools Communications Officer Michael Lawrence said groups such as marching bands, cheerleaders and JROTC will be allowed to participate on a limited basis.

Some West Orange-area parents have offered their own suggestions — all of which are better than the one-size-suitsall rubbish OCPS shoveled down our collective throats.

Although decisions OCPS’ leaders face often have no right answers, they do have lesswrong ones. And perhaps, if they return students to the center of the decision-making process, they can arrive at conclusions they won’t feel compelled to reveal at the last possible second; through statements with no attribution; or reinforce with questionable rationale.

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7

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2020

Facility CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

Foxcrest. The project, Stoneybrook Senior Care, includes 10 detached two-car garage buildings as well.

“This development goes against promises made in the past,” said Jeff Roberts, one of several speakers who lives on Dallington and whose property is close to the site.

He cited its excessive scale and potential noise, as well as the decreasing property values he and his neighbors will ultimately have.

“This simply does not belong in our backyard,” he said.

Roberts asked the developer either to bring back a smallerscale facility or take the business elsewhere. His neighbor, Rick McDowell, agreed, saying the area is residential and should not have a commercial development in it.

“It doesn’t make sense,” he said.

“We’re the ones who are going to get hit in the pocketbook one day when we go to sell our house.”

Other residents shared their fears of increased traffic along Reaves and the aesthetic.

“We are in full support of a senior living facility, but not in that location and not to that size,” Kristin Elliott said.

The applicant, Allan Bradley, said he has made multiple changes to the initial plans and has extended the conservation portion of the property and have made what he thinks is a fair offer to the neighboring community to create a landscape buffer.

“I believe in Winter Garden, and I believe we really do have something that will fit into the fabric of Winter Garden,” Bradley said.

The vote was 4-1 in favor of approving five ordinances associated with the project, with Commissioner Colin Sharman dissenting.

“I can’t vote for this … for my constituents,” Sharman said.

WRITER’S BLOCK BOOKSTORE

Downtown Winter Garden is getting an independent bookstore at 32 W. Plant St. City staff requested a targeted retail grant for $50,000 — $25,000 from the city and $25,000 from the Community Redevelopment Agency — to assist with interior alterations and buildout costs associated with getting the space ready to open in the fall.

City Manager Mike Bollhoefer called the project a targeted retail incentive. Writer’s Block will sell mostly new books and hold story time for children and adult readings.

“We have SoBo, the theater, the heritage foundation; this bookstore fits in with all that cultural type of activity,” Bollhoefer said.

“We’re also considering a small quality toy store and small quality sports store.”

Both the City Commission and the CRA approved the grants.

Mike and Charity Gill love being able to have the freedom to travel the world and perform together.

Courtesy Gilly & The Girl

DYNAMIC DUO Winter Garden residents Mike and Charity Gill have performed musically as Gilly & The Girl for more than three years.

DANIELLE HENDRIX ASSOCIATE EDITOR

B

efore the coronavirus pandemic hit, husband-andwife musical duo Mike and Charity Gill were set to embark on a new cruise contract.

Life had other plans, though.

The cruising industry and much of the entertainment industry suddenly were on pause due to COVID-19. Toss becoming firsttime homeowners into the mix, and the Gills were thrown for a loop.

But the Winter Garden residents aren’t discouraged. In fact, Charity Gill said, they have had time to settle into their new home after having spent so much time traveling and performing over the years.

The duo, known musically as Gilly & The Girl, is considered a contemporary, acoustic act. Mike Gill is the guitarist and vocalist, while Charity Gill is the lead vocalist.

They met in 2011, when both

MIKE YOAKUM Pastor P: 407.656.1520 C: 407.758.3570 MYOAKUM407@AOL.COM

were working for Universal Studios in Japan. Each had gone to school for theater, and they knew there was something special between them.

After moving back to Orlando, the Gills got engaged and then married a year later. Soon after, they were called back to Universal Studios in Japan for a while. But the Gills both knew they wanted to continue to travel together.

“Three years ago was when we actually started singing and playing together,” Charity Gill said.

“My husband wasn’t a big fan of singing and playing in front of people, believe it or not. He only wanted to do that as a hobby.”

“I had severe anxiety so I didn’t ever perform musically in front of people,” said Mike Gill. “My job was performing as an actor in front of people, which is a completely different thing. I had a lot of hangups about performing as myself. I was just worried about people judging it harshly.”

The two began singing and playing together as a hobby on the side while they were in Japan.

As they worked on building their library of songs and played for their friends, those friends encouraged them to look into the cruise industry for opportunities to play and travel together.

“We got a reel together … and we found an agency to represent us, and they got us a job in about three to four months,” Charity Gill said. “We started working

GILLY & THE GIRL

Website: gillyandthegirl.com Email: gillyandthegirlduo@ gmail.com Facebook: facebook.com/ gillyandthegirl Instagram: @gillyandthegirlduo

for Celebrity (Cruises), and we haven’t looked back.”

“All of our cruises have been in Europe and Australia,” Mike Gill said. “We’ve seen about 50 countries together in the last threeand-a-half years or so. We’re eager to get back out there and to travel a bit more, for sure. … We were doing 12- to 17-day cruises, where we get to know the people that are on the ship, they get to know us, we develop a relationship, and we make friends. We’re still in contact with hundreds of people that we’ve met on cruise ships over these last three years.”

Gilly & The Girl covers hits from various decades and genres, with much of the duo’s musical repertoire hailing from the ’60s, ’70s and ’80s. Some of their influences include James Taylor, The Beatles, Whitney Houston, Jim Croce, Fleetwood Mac, The Eagles and Patsy Cline.

“We have about 470 songs that we do, and we’re always trying to increase the number of songs that we’ve got in there,” Mike Gill said.

“More often than not, people will

request that we learn older songs most of the time.”

For the first few months of the COVID-19 lockdown, the duo performed through livestreams.

They credit their friends and family with helping them keep their heads above water — both with financial and emotional support — throughout.

Now, they play about five days a week, mainly in The Villages.

As new Winter Garden residents, they hope to soon begin booking gigs locally, too.

“We would love to get into the scene down here, but it’s hard to get into the scene when no one really knows you,” Charity Gill said. “We really do love this area.

We do stick to the older stuff. We would like to play what we like to listen to.”

Although the Gills aren’t able to return to their cruising gigs yet, they consider themselves fortunate to be booked and busy.

“I feel like this whole experience is going to make me so much more thankful for the opportunities in the future to travel and see the world,” Charity Gill said. “This has been a big wake-up call.”

“My dream since I was 17 and I worked at Red Lobster was to wake up in the morning and not dread going to work,” Mike Gill added. “That, to me, is incredibly fulfilling in itself — to be able to support ourselves relatively well and enjoy what we do for a living.”

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OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2020

Waterstone estate sells for $2.05 million in Windermere topped

for $529,100. Built in 2018, it has four bedrooms, threeand-one-half baths and 3,099 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $170.73.

Days on market: 25.

all West Orange-area

OVERLOOK 2 AT HAMLIN

A

home in the Waterstone community

The home at 5647 Bowman Drive, Winter Garden, sold Aug. 26, for $390,000. Built in 2017, it has three bedrooms, four baths and 2,326 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $167.67. Days on market: 42.

residential real-estate transactions from Aug. 21 to 27.

The home at 11557 Waterstone Loop Drive,

PEACHTREE PARK

Windermere, sold Aug. 21, for $2.05 million.

Built in 2014, it has five

zillow.com

This Waterstone home, at 11557 Waterstone Loop Drive, Windermere, sold Aug. 21, for $2.05 million. This custom contemporary-style home features a view of Lake Cypress.

bedrooms, five-andone-half baths, a pool living area. The price per

it has three bedrooms, twoand-one-half baths and 1,196 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $167.22.

Days on market: Two.

square foot is $366.20.

HORIZON WEST

Days on market: 186.

The home at 2096 Cestius Road, Winter Garden, sold Aug. 27, for $379,000. Built in 2015, it has four bedrooms, three-andone-half baths and 2,541 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $149.15. Days on market: Two.

and 5,598 square feet of

ALEXANDER RIDGE

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

ASHLIN PARK

GOTHA

AZALEA RIDGE

The home at 1614 Red Ruffle Court, Gotha, sold Aug. 24, for $242,000. Built in 1997, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,233 square feet of living area.

The price per square foot is $196.27. Days on market: 14.

CITRUS OAKS

The townhouse at 9389 Lake Lotta Circle, Gotha, sold Aug. 24, for $200,000. Built in 1986,

The home at 11560 Ashlin Park Blvd., Windermere, sold Aug. 27, for $385,000. Built in 2015, it has three bedrooms, two-andone-half baths and 2,270 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $169.60. Days on market: 52.

HAMILTON GARDENS

The home at 6145 Glory Bower Drive, Winter Garden, sold Aug. 21, for $464,545. Built in 2020, it has four bedrooms, two-andone-half baths and 3,136 square

feet of living area. The price per square foot is $148.13. Days on market: 37.

The home at 5975 Glory Bower Drive, Winter Garden, sold Aug. 27, for $350,295. Built in 2020, it has three bedrooms, two-andone-half baths and 2,138 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $163.84. Days on market: Zero.

HICKORY HAMMOCK

The home at 15867 Citrus Grove Loop, Winter Garden, sold Aug. 27, for $387,000. Built in 2015, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,337 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $165.60. Days on market: 24.

INDEPENDENCE/ SIGNATURE LAKES

The home at 559 New Independence Parkway, Winter Garden, sold Aug. 21, for $309,900. Built in 2011, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,712 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $181.02. Days on market: Four.

LAKE BURDEN SOUTH

The townhouse at 11553 Center Lake Drive, Windermere, sold Aug. 21, for $262,000. Built in 2007, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,489 square feet of living area.

The price per square foot is $175.96. Days on market: 122.

LAKE REAMS TOWNHOMES

The townhouse at 12551 Cruxbury Drive, Windermere, sold Aug. 25, for $232,500. Built in 2005, it has two bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,311 square feet of living area.

The price per square foot is $177.35. Days on market: Five.

LAKESHORE

The home at 8277 Topsail Place, Winter Garden, sold Aug. 24, for $576,550. Built in 2019, it has five bedrooms, four-andone-half baths and 3,811 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $151.29. Days on market: Zero.

LATHAM PARK SOUTH

The home at 8796 Peachtree Park Court, Windermere, sold Aug. 20, for $555,000. Built in 2014, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths, a pool and 3,299 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $168.23. Days on market: 29.

PRESTON SQUARE

The home at 6609 Helmsley Circle, Windermere, sold Aug. 21, for $330,000. Built in 2012, it has three bedrooms, twoand-one-half baths and 2,260 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $146.02.

Days on market: 35.

SANCTUARY AT HAMLIN

The home at 7448 Pomelo Grove Drive, Winter Garden, sold Aug. 21, for $475,000. Built in 2019, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,683 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $177.04. Days on market: 83.

SUMMERLAKE

The home at 8019 Woodstar Lane, Winter Garden, sold Aug. 25, for $430,000. Built in 2018, it has four bedrooms, two-andone-half baths and 2,683 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $160.27. Days on market: 18.

The home at 9137 Merlon Drive, Winter Garden, sold Aug. 21,

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REAL ESTATE

8

OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

VINEYARDS AT HORIZON WEST

The home at 13700 Ingelnook Drive, Windermere, sold Aug. 21, for $427,000. Built in 2013, it has five bedrooms, three-andone-half baths and 2,834 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $150.67. Days on market: Two. WATERLEIGH

The home at 9488 Bolero Road, Winter Garden, sold Aug. 24, for $428,000. Built in 2020, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,113 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $202.56. Days on market: Seven.

The home at 16892 Oakboro St., Winter Garden, sold Aug. 25, for $382,000. Built in 2020, it has four bedrooms, three-andone-half baths and 2,489 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $153.48. Days on market: 36.

The home at 16886 Oakboro St., Winter Garden, sold Aug. 26, for $365,495. Built in 2020, it has three bedrooms, two-andone-half baths and 2,216 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $164.93. Days on market: 49.

The townhouse at 9129 Mellow Coral St., Winter Garden, sold Aug. 25, for $277,990. Built in 2020, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,567 square feet of living area.

The price per square foot is $177.40. Days on market: Five.

WEST LAKE HANCOCK ESTATES

The home at 7887 Minutemen Loop, Winter Garden, sold Aug. 26, for $376,500. Built in 2014,

|

it has four bedrooms, two baths and 1,954 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $192.68. Days on market: 138.

LAKE OLYMPIA LAKE VILLAGE

The home at 1095 Hawthorne Cove Drive, Ocoee, sold Aug. 27, for $510,000. Built in 1993, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,316 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $220.21. Days on market: Two.

WINCEY GROVES

The home at 5034 Breezy Acres St., Winter Garden, sold Aug. 25, for $408,500. Built in 2020, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,235 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $182.77. Days on market: 60.

MEADOW RIDGE

The home at 2790 Maria Isabel Ave., Ocoee, sold Aug. 26, for $539,000. Built in 2011, it has four bedrooms, three baths, two halfbaths and 3,154 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $170.89. Days on market: Zero.

WINDERMERE ISLE

The home at 8337 Torcello Isle Drive, Windermere, sold Aug. 25, for $503,000. Built in 2018, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,957 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $170.10. Days on market: 34.

WINDERMERE LANDINGS

The home at 6126 Roseate Spoonbill Drive, Windermere, sold Aug. 26, for $487,000. Built in 2011, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 3,068 square feet of living area.

The price per square foot is $158.74. Days on market: 145.

WINDERMERE TRAILS

The home at 8799 Crescendo Ave., Windermere, sold Aug. 24, for $610,000. Built in 2015, it has six bedrooms, four-andone-half baths and 4,502 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $135.50. Days on market: Seven.

The home at 12018 Silverlake Park Drive, Windermere, sold Aug. 25, for $315,000. Built in 2014, it has four bedrooms, twoand-one-half baths and 2,086 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $151.01.

Days on market: 12.

9

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2020

coldwellbankerhomes.com

The home at 15318 Gilligan Court, No. 112, Winter Garden, sold Aug. 25, for $650,000. It was the largest transaction in Horizon West from Aug. 21 to 27.

WINDING BAY

The home at 15318 Gilligan Court, No. 112, Winter Garden, sold Aug. 25, for $650,000. Built in 2020, it has five bedrooms, four-andone-half baths and 3,892 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $167.01. Days on market: 11.

WINDING BAY PRESERVE

The townhouse at 11151 Hanlon Terrace Alley, No. 38, Winter Garden, sold Aug. 26, for $299,990. Built in 2020, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 1,881 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $159.48. Days on market: 27.

OCOEE

AMBER RIDGE

The home at 996 Satin Leaf Circler, Ocoee, sold Aug. 21, for $264,000. Built in 1995, it has three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 1,737 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $151.99. Days on market: Six.

SNAPSHOT

Total Sales: 70 High Sale Price: $2.05 million Low Sale Price: $186,000 FAIRFAX VILLAGE

The home at 240 Wescliff Drive, Ocoee, sold Aug. 26, for $315,000.

Built in 1993, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,501 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $209.86. Days on market: Two. HAMMOCKS

The home at 1030 Shady Maple Circle, Ocoee, sold Aug. 25, for $350,000. Built in 1990, it has four bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,466 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $141.93. Days on market: Four.

INGRAM TRAILS

The home at 2799 Pythagoras Circle sold Aug. 21, for $357,500.

It has six bedrooms, four baths and 3,514 square feet. The price per square foot is $101.74.

The home at 388 Douglas Edward Drive, Ocoee, sold Aug. 27, for $422,500. Built in 2011, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 2,388 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $176.93. Days on market: Two. OCOEE LANDINGS

The home at 1926 Ibis Bay Court, No. 18, Ocoee, sold Aug. 24, for $315,990. Built in 2020, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,969 square feet of living area.

The price per square foot is $160.48. Days on market: 12.

PEACH LAKE MANOR

The home at 1505 Mona Ave., Ocoee, sold Aug. 21, for $195,000.

Built in 1960, it has three bedrooms, one bath and 1,157 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $168.54. Days on market: 19.

VINEYARDS

The home at 2572 Cabernet Circle, Ocoee, sold Aug. 24, for $373,000. Built in 2005, it has five bedrooms, four baths and 3,080 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $121.10.

Days on market: Four.

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3 BD./2.5 BA. IF YOU LIKE ENTERTAINING THIS HOME IS FOR YOU!!! Take a look at this home before it is gone, located in Ocoee Curb appeal is a plus with lush landscaping which is just a beginning of what is inside. Step into the foyer with glowing wood flooring, to the right are two guest bedrooms centered around the guest bath. Dining room that is currently being used as a very unique Man Cave features a custom made BAR, natural pine wood, complete with Kegerator, custom built-in shelving, TV and pine bar stools all that STAY!!! The open living/family room has plenty of room for entertaining with sliding glass doors that completely open to hide behind the wall of the extended paver patio, patio furniture, gas grill and canopy STAY! The kitchen is a dream, granite counters, breakfast bar, stainless steel appliances, gas cook top, 2 built-in ovens, microwave and refrigerator. Off of the living area is a guest half bath. Master bedroom adjoined by master bath, his/her granite vanities, shower and walk-in closet.***GATED COMMUNITY*** ASKING ONLY $350,000

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A LOT FOR YOUR MONEY!!!

Are you looking for a great PICTURESQUE WOODED LOT? This lot is located in Mascotte with Highway 50 Lot Frontage of 102, Lot Depth is 215 ft. No HOA, located in the County. Mature landscaping with beautiful trees, perfect place for a new home or possible business. This could be a great investment for future use, don’t miss the opportunity today to own this 1/2 acre.

Seller is MOTIVATED!!! ASKING ONLY $69,000

340334-1

3Bd./2 Ba. BEAUTIFUL BRICK HOME LOCATED IN THE HEART OF OCOEE...This home is a PAMPERED BEAUTY... Classic beauty of first quality construction, lovingly maintained, step inside and be amazed. If you like sitting outside then you have your choice of sitting on the covered screened porch in the front or the covered screened porch in the back. Attached 2 car garage. Great home for 1st time home buyer or down sizing. Some of the FEATURES INCLUDE: DOUBLE PANE WINDOWS-ENERGY EFFICIENT, NEW CARPET JUST INSTALLED IN 2 BEDROOMS, RE-PLUMBED, A/C SYSTEM INSTALLED IN 4/16 AND STILL UNDER WARRANTY. LANDSCAPING PROFESSIONALLY DONE...VINYL FENCED BACK YARD WITH STORAGE SHED.

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JUST LISTED 2 DAYS - NO HOA!!! UNDER CONTRACT!!!

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OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2020

REAL ESTATE

WESMERE

TOWN OF WINDERMERE

The home at 504 Emory Oak St., Ocoee, sold Aug. 27, for $385,000. Built in 1997, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,582 square feet. The price per square foot is $149.11. Days on market: 25.

The home at 133 Main St., Windermere, sold Aug. 20, for $341,700. Built in 1963, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,274 square feet. The price per square foot is $268.21. Days on market: 21.

WINDSOR LANDING

WESTOVER CLUB

The home at 249 Sagecrest Drive, Ocoee, sold Aug. 27, for $535,000. Built in 2003, it has five bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 3,829 square feet. The price per square foot is $139.72.

Days on market: Eight.

The home at 9447 Westover Club Circle sold Aug. 21, for $475,000. Built in 2001, it has four bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,568 square feet. The price per square foot is $184.97.

Days on market: Zero.

The home at 114 Calliope St., Ocoee, sold Aug. 20, for $530,000. Built in 2003, it has four bedrooms, four-and-onehalf baths and 3,804 square feet. The price per square foot is $139.33. Days on market: One.

WEST ORANGE GLENMUIR

The home at 10939 Ledgement Lane, Windermere, sold Aug. 26, for $567,000. Built in 2003, it has four bedrooms, three baths, two half-baths, a pool and 3,555 square feet. The price per square foot is $159.49. Days on market: 23.

The home at 2740 Windsor Hill Drive, Windermere, sold Aug. 24, for $535,000. Built in 1990, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 2,957 square feet. The price per square foot is $180.93.

Days on market: 190.

WINDERMERE

The home at 11609 Vicolo Loop,

340505-1

BECAUSE OF YOU, HOMEBUYERS BUY WITH CONFIDENCE

Windermere, sold Aug. 24, for $485,000. Built in 2002, it has four bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,704 square feet. The price per square foot is $179.36.

Days on market: Five.

The home at 1025 Via Tivoli Court, Windermere, sold Aug. 21, for $419,000. Built in 2005, it has five bedrooms, two-andone-half baths and 2,549 square feet. The price per square foot is $164.38. Days on market: 22.

WINDSOR HILL

BELMERE VILLAGE

weichert.com

The home at 2790 Maria Isabel Ave., Ocoee, sold Aug. 26, for $539,000. It was the largest transaction in Ocoee from Aug. 21 to 27.

The home at 912 Algare Loop, Windermere, sold Aug. 26, for $349,000. Built in 2002, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,131 square feet. The price per square foot is $163.77. Days on market: One. KEENE’S POINTE

The home at 8457 Eagles Loop Circle, Windermere, sold Aug. 27, for $880,000. Built in 2003,

it has four bedrooms, threeand-one-half baths, a pool and 3,810 square feet. The price per square foot is $230.97. Days on market: Three.

MANORS AT BUTLER BAY

WINTER GARDEN BLACK LAKE PARK

The home at 775 Cascading Creek Lane, Winter Garden, sold Aug. 21, for $385,000. Built in 2007, it has five bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 3,750 square feet. The price per square foot is $102.67. Days on market: 99.

The home at 2563 Carter Grove Circle, Windermere, sold Aug. 21, for $599,000. Built in 1989, it has five bedrooms, fourand-one-half baths, a pool and 3,177 square feet. The price per square foot is $188.54. Days on market: 34.

CHAPIN STATION

RESERVE AT LAKE BUTLER SOUND

GLYNWOOD

The home at 110521 Coniston Way, No. 2, Windermere, sold Aug. 24, for $1,299,000. Built in 2005, it has five bedrooms, five-and-one-half baths, a pool and 5,498 square feet. The price per square foot is $236.27.

Days on market: 108.

The home at 1408 Lindzlu St., Winter Garden, sold Aug. 25, for $325,000. Built in 2005, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 1,962 square feet. The price per square foot is $165.65. Days on market: Six. The home at 930 Duff Drive, Winter Garden, sold Aug. 21, for $519,900. Built in 2004, it has four bedrooms, four baths, a pool and 3,521 square feet. The price per square foot is $147.66.

Days on market: Seven.

SCHENLEY PARK

The home at 2 W. Palmetto St.,

sold Aug. 25, for $330,475. Built in 1960, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 1,740 square feet. The price per square foot is $189.93. Days on market: 24.

STONE CREEK

The home at 1627 Portcastle Circle, Winter Garden, sold Aug. 26, for $297,000. Built in 2006, it has four bedrooms, two-andone-half baths and 1,606 square feet. The price per square foot is $184.93. Days on market: 29.

STONEYBROOK WEST

The home at 1221 Castleport Road, Winter Garden, sold Aug. 25, for $495,000. Built in 2000, it has five bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 3,243 square feet. The price per square foot is $152.64. Days on market: 10.

The home at 13531 Tenbury Wells Way, Winter Garden, sold Aug. 26, for $333,000. Built in 2007, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 1,862 square feet. The price per square foot is $178.84. Days on market: 17.

TWINWATERS

The home at 16629 Toccoa Row, Winter Garden, sold Aug. 21, for $590,000. Built in 2016, it has five bedrooms, four baths and 3,862 square feet. The price per square foot is $152.77. Days on market: One. WINTERMERE POINTE

The home at 2418 Prairie View Drive, Winter Garden, sold Aug. 27, for $407,000. Built in 2002, it has four bedrooms, two-andone-half baths and 2,652 square feet. The price per square foot is $153.47. Days on market: 147.

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OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

|

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2020

2020 HURRICANE GUIDE HURRICANE SEASON STORM NAMES 1. Arthur (Tropical Storm) 2. Bertha (Tropical Storm) 3. Cristobal (Tropical Storm) 4. Dolly (Tropical Storm) 5. Edouard (Tropical Storm) 6. Fay (Tropical Storm) 7. Gonzalo (Tropical Storm) 8. Hanna (Hurricane) 9. Isaias (Hurricane) 10. Josephine (Tropical Storm) 11. Kyle (Tropical Storm) 12. Laura (Hurricane) 13. Marco (Hurricane) 14. Nana (Tropical Storm) 15. Omar 16. Paulette 17. Rene 18. Sally 19. Teddy 20. Vicky 21. Wilfred

Now’s the Time to Get Hurricane Ready ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔

Build Emergency Kit

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Create Evacuation Plan

Prepare Home Prepare for Power Outage Follow Local Officials for Directions and Latest Updates

Verify Your Insurance Coverage Your insurance policy is just as important as all other items needed to properly prepare for a hurricane before it arrives.

Call me today and make sure your policy is hurricane ready.

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11

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OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2020

Here is everything you should have in your hurricane kit Hurricane season will last through Nov. 30, and it is important to ensure you and your family remain prepared. A complete preparedness kit is essential.

COURTESY OF ORANGE COUNTY

As Orange County prepares residents and visitors for hurricane season, it is important to make sure emergency kits are stocked with the necessary items recommended by the Federal Emergency Management Agency. Most of the items are inexpensive and easy to find could help save a life.

FEMA provides a printable list to take shopping when purchasing supplies for an emergency kit. Be sure to also consider what unique needs additional family members might have, such as supplies for pets and seniors.

An emergency supply kit is a collection of basic items you and your family may need in the event of an emergency. Being prepared means having food, water and other supplies to last you and your family for at least 72 hours.

To assemble your kit, store items in airtight plastic bags and put your entire disaster supplies kit in one or two easy-to-carry containers, such as plastic bins or a duffel bag. A basic emergency supply kit could include the following recommended items: n One gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation n Food — at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food

n Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert. n A dust mask to help filter contaminated air and plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place n Wipes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation n A whistle to signal for help n Cell phones with chargers and backup batteries n Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities n Manual can opener n Flashlight n First aid kit n Extra batteries n Local maps

EMERGENCY KIT STORAGE LOCATIONS Because you do not know where you will be when an emergency occurs, prepare supplies for home, work and vehicles.

ADDITIONAL EMERGENCY SUPPLIES

Consider adding the following items to your emergency supply kit based on your family needs: n Non-prescription medications such as pain relievers, antidiarrhea medication, antacids or laxatives and a few days of prescription medications n Important family documents, such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records saved electronically or in a waterproof, portable container n Household chlorine bleach and medicine dropper to disinfect water n Complete change of clothing

appropriate for your climate and sturdy shoes n Infant formula, bottles, diapers, wipes, diaper rash cream n Pet food and extra water for your pet n Sleeping bags and warm blankets for each person n Mess kits, paper cups, plates, paper towels and plastic utensils n Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items n Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children n Glasses and contact lens case and solution n Cash or traveler’s checks

n Fire extinguisher n Matches in a waterproof container n Paper and pencil For more information on emergency information from Orange County Government and how to prepare for a hurricane, visit ocfl.net/storm.

Source: Department of Homeland Security, Federal Emergency Management Agency ready.gov/ build-a-kit

n HOME Keep this kit in a designated place and have it ready in case you have to leave your home quickly. Make sure all family members know where the kit is kept. n WORK Be prepared to shelter at work for at least 24 hours.

Your work kit should include food, water and other necessities like medicines, as well as comfortable walking shoes, stored in a “grab and go” case. n VEHICLE In case you are stranded, keep a kit of emergency supplies in your car.

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OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2020

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OrangeObserver.com

OBSERVER

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OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2020

This Hurricane Season, Weather the Storm in Comfort with Natural Gas by Your Side

The Atlantic Hurricane Season officially begins June 1, and now is the time to make sure you are ready to weather the storm. Preparation is particularly important this year, as forecast predictions point to an above-average season, with 16 named storms and eight hurricanes, four of which are expected to be categorized as “major.”

Regardless of size, thunderstorms, tropical storms, tornadoes, and hurricanes can cause electric power outages that last anywhere from a few minutes, hours to weeks, even when a community isn’t in the eye of the storm. However, LANGD customers can rest easy, knowing that they’ll be covered in the case of a power outage with the direct use of a reliable, resilient and convenient energy source.

With an underground distribution system, natural gas is an energy resource you can rely on 24/7, even during the most severe weather conditions. This is just one reason why so many essential services – such as hospitals, nursing homes and police and fire stations – rely on natural gas to keep their water hot, cook meals and emergency generators running. Natural gas is also cost-friendly, with homeowners saving up to 30% on utility bills each month after converting from electric to natural gas appliances.

This year, we encourage you to considering moving “making the switch to natural gas” to the top of that checklist. Major storms are no match for natural gas appliances, and here are just a few of the reasons why it’s the right choice to help you safely ride out any storm.

NATURAL GAS GENERATORS n n

Automatically switch on in 30-60 seconds when there is a loss of electricity.

Operate even if electricity is out, with no need to refuel.

NATURAL GAS WATER HEATERS n n

Have twice the capacity and half the recovery time of electric models.

Have lower maintenance requirements and longer life cycles than electric models.

NATURAL GAS RANGES n n

Allow stovetops and ovens to operate during power outages.

Allow burners to be lit with a match or portable igniter.

NATURAL GAS GRILLS n n

Continue operating during power outages.

Allow you to prepare hot, fresh meals, no matter the weather.

NATURAL GAS LIGHTS n

Provide comfort and security during the night, without the worry of using up all your batteries or risking danger of traditional candles.

To learn more about how you can ease the stress of hurricane season and turn to natural gas to fuel your home, Visit www.langd.org, call the LANGD marketing team at (407) 656-2734, ext. 307 or email marketing@langd.org

340716-1

While our community continues to navigate the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak together, it’s important not to forget about another challenging time that’s just around the corner: hurricane season. Having a plan in place can help ease the stress of unpredictable circumstances, and Lake Apopka Natural Gas District (LANGD) is by your side to help ensure the safety of you and your loved ones.

Although hurricane season is quickly approaching, it may seem easier to focus on planning “later.” But taking a few simple steps now is guaranteed save you time and stress in the long run. Fortunately, there are great resources, like FloridaDisaster.org, available to help ensure you’ve crossed off everything on your comprehensive hurricane-prep checklist.

Hurricane Season is Here….

We’ve Got Your Back!

Call 407-656-2734 ext. 307 to get Natural Gas to your home or business… when the storm is here it’s too late!

All electric home... or a home with natural gas?

American Public Gas Association 340715-1

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THESE OLD TIMES

|

FROM THE WINTER GARDEN HERITAGE FOUNDATION

THROWBACK THURSDAY SEPT. 3, 1970 Back-to-school time was important to local businesses that sold school supplies and clothing. In the Sept.

3, 1970, issue of The Winter Garden Times, Penny Saver in the West Orange and Ocoee shopping centers advertised its best styles and savings to parents looking to buy their children a new school wardrobe. The latest fashions were striped h.i.s flare pants in blue, bronze and white. Also popular were the puff and body sleeves on shirts.

Shoppers who visited the store that weekend were treated to the music of popular local band The Mother Country.

80 years ago

FROM THE ARCHIVES HISTORY MYSTERY. This little home stood until recently near the end of an unpaved road that snaked south from Oakland Avenue. The property, currently undergoing development, also featured a larger home located closer to the main road. On the front porch of this little wooden house was a wood-burnt sign that read “Cracker House 1920,” though it may have actually been constructed in the 1940s.

Anyone who can supply further information about this little house is asked to call the Winter Garden Heritage Foundation at (407) 656-3244.

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.

“Green is the go color for motorists and locomotive engineers, and you are certainly green if you do not know it. Some people have green thumbs when it comes to growing plants and flowers.

And we are constantly advised

MOBILE by Zhouqin Burnikel; CROSSWORD UPWARDLY Edited by David Steinberg

©2020 Universal Uclick

1 Luxury German autos 5 Resistance units 9 Out of ___ world 13 “The Lovebirds” co-star Rae 17 Indefinable vibe 18 Not worth discussing 19 Cello bow application 21 Spy’s info 22 Top that makes a statement?

24 Nonsensical 25 Gateway Arch material 26 Female pheasant 27 “O Sole ___” 28 Enthusiasm

30 “The Good Doctor” network 31 Budget alternative 32 Non-___ corn 34 Barely visible 36 Spiny plants 38 Escape room item 39 Holy ___ Empire 41 Straight from the garden 42 Gadget 44 Stretch out 46 Office fill-in 49 Loosens, as a knot 52 Opera headliner 53 Roe source 55 Sworn enemy

56 View with displeasure 57 Lacking in diversity 59 Corner store owners, perhaps 62 Get the poker pot going 63 Advocacy group for seniors 64 Mixed-breed dog 65 Gradual increase of gratuities 68 Govt. media watchdog 71 Cakes often made with ground nuts 73 Voice actor Hank 75 ER staffers 76 Waters surrounding the

to ‘Keep Florida Green’ by Smokey Bear.

“We enjoyed Brownies in our childhood. The aged are troubled with brown spots and gray hair. There are gray skies and gray areas to worry about.

We award Purple Hearts. We

are familiar with scarlet letters and women. We term some people shrinking violets and others pinkos.

“Maybe we would be a lot better off if everybody (were) color blind.”

43 Fighting 45 Houston team 47 State known for its big sky 48 ___ XING 50 Off one’s plate?

51 Fitbit units 54 “Let’s talk privately,” on social media 56 *Just so-so (8 to 6) 58 Courtroom pledge 60 Sternly simple 61 Sch. fundraiser sponsor 66 It’s filled with crust and filling 67 Show empathy 68 Did some clerical work 69 Really want 70 *Cause championed by Coretta Scott King (7 to 5) 72 T, in sorority names 74 Off the wall 77 He has power over Cupid 79 *Enthusiastic words of support (8 to 5) DOWN 81 Under control 1 Big blowout 84 Spreadsheet division 2 Animal that balks 86 Replies to a message, and 3 *Misstep (see letters 7 to 5) a hint to the starred answers’ 4 Old sofa problem indicated letters 5 Upscale hotel chain 87 Materials for refinement 6 *Brand-new (4 to 1) 88 “Child’s play!”

7 “The Simpsons” bartender 90 “Understand?”

8 Wonder of music 91 “Outside the Lines” 9 *Cut costs (5 to 3) channel 10 Sweetheart, informally 94 Tech support client 11 Oscar who played Poe 98 Place to practice karate Dameron 100 City WSW of Orlando Isle of Man 12 Fictional sailor from 102 Works on, as a draft 78 Fey of “Sisters” Baghdad 103 Trickery 80 Actress Polo 13 Worldwide (Abbr.)

105 Emerge abruptly 82 Volcano output 14 *Outback fare (7 to 5) 107 Leaks (through) 83 “Why not, dude!”

15 Ominous request from a 108 WNBA great Smith 85 Like some slippers teacher 110 “I’m stumped” 89 Demonstrates clearly 16 Brass or bronze 114 ___ Ness monster 92 Pop singer Rita 20 Candy wafer brand 118 Singer Tori 93 City in southwest Arizona 21 “Stop asking me!”

120 Country east of Yemen 95 Mount Olympus queen 23 In the midst of 121 Reject as false 96 River mouth features 29 Research ctr.

124 Boathouse implement 97 Join with a blowtorch 33 Tomorrow, in Tijuana 126 Thurman of “Henry & 99 Levies on booze and 35 Vicinity June” smokes 37 Guided trip 127 Completed 101 Sang like Megan Thee 39 Second chance Stallion 40 Lena of “Hunters” 104 Ran at a relaxed gait 106 On edge 107 Enjoy a bunny slope 109 Drew to a close 111 Feature of Iceland’s coast 112 Rx prescribers 113 Bird on many quarters 115 Post-op stop 116 Alley-___ 117 Track circuit 119 Physique, briefly 122 Community spirit 123 Voice below alto 125 Polite reply in Paris 128 What you go to bat for?

129 Peninsula bordering Israel 130 “Er, I doubt that” 131 Self-confident words 132 Get-together, informally 133 Basis for a lawsuit 134 Yard sale labels 135 Fashion initials

CELEBRITY CIPHER

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

Each letter in the cipher stands for another.

“VAUXT SX ‘TKAA’ LZJ ZOZWUXT. ...

KAZ OUBRAKA, BREUJ BSKCAE, ZOVAE EUKAN, XZNZ EUPAEZ, YRAN ZKK LAKBSOAG OA LUYR SFAX – XAXA KAZMJ

ZEOJ.”

“UT HEWT SK TLTGJKHT, CPACJR RBEPT CHV CFFGTWECST SNEHIR UTWCDRT ES WKDPV CPP UT IKHT SKBKGGKA.”

– WKGJ BKHSTESN Puzzle Two Clue: L equals V

In Too Late to Classify, a column by Russell Kay: “We have heard a lot about color during the last few years. Most of it in black and white, with less emphasis on red and brown.

But what about other colors?

We have developed quite a colorful language and have come to use colors to identify a lot of things.

“We associate red with the (American) Indian. We see red when we are angered. We suspect Russian Reds. Although bulls are color blind, we wave red capes at them to arouse their ire. We think of a person with red hair and nickname him ‘Red.’ We use red as a signal for danger. We even have red-light districts.

“We are yellow if we refuse to fight. We have yellow journalism, yellow lights for caution and ‘The Yellow Rose of Texas.’

“Just why such a beautiful color as blue should come to be associated with downheartedness and sadsacks I’ll never know, but it seems if you are blue you are unhappy.

Then we have a type of music we call the blues and a number of so-called Blue Laws advocated by folks called Blue Noses to seek to legislate our morals. Investors and poker players are familiar with blue chips.

15

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2020

Puzzle One Clue: O equals M

WEST ORANG E HISTO RY

OrangeObserver.com

© 2020 NEA, Inc.

SUDOKU

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

©2020 Andrews McMeel Syndicate

09-03-20

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OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2020

Orange County district updates mask policy The Orange County School Board has updated the district’s face-covering policy.

Changes include additional requirements for a medical waiver allowing for a face mask exemption and prohibiting masks with a respirator valve. Neck gaiters and neck buffs no longer are acceptable face coverings.

This change came the same week the district reported 21 student cases and eight school-based employee cases of COVID-19. In that report, issued Wednesday, Aug. 26, the district stated those cases were not transmitted in school.

West Orange- and Southwest Orangearea schools with positive cases included Keene’s Crossing Elementary, Lakeview Middle School, Ocoee Middle School, Southwest Middle School, Spring Lake Elementary and Sunset Park Elementary.

For more information about OCPS and its policies regarding COVID-19, visit the district’s FAQ, bit.ly/3hOQXyJ.

Foundation parents enjoy annual Parent Coffee Donning masks, senior parents at Foundation Academy met last week for the school’s annual Senior Parent Coffee.

During this event, the parents began planning the special events for their seniors throughout the school year.

TFA librarian checks out new delivery method Lisa DeBoom, library media specialist at The First Academy, has found a new way to keep her students reading.

DeBoom unveiled recently Uber Reads, which allows students to have access to their favorite library books —delivered directly to them on a cart outside.

INFLUENCER OF THE WEEK

16

DOUGLAS FARLEY, SUNRIDGE ELEMENTARY Douglas Farley is in his first year of leading SunRidge Elementary as its principal. He said he strives to lead the school with humility, provide a “family” atmosphere and keep high expectations for everyone. Farley began his career with Orange County Public Schools as an English teacher at Olympia High and then moved into the academic dean/testing coordinator position there. He was assistant principal at Freedom High before moving to SRES.

What brought you to your school?

I have always had ties with this community. I live on the west side of Orange County, my wife’s family lived in Windermere, and my wife taught at Keene’s Crossing Elementary, where my two boys went for their elementary age. So when the job opened up, it was a job I felt very attached to.

What do you love most about your school?

What’s not to love? The kids are wonderful, the parents are supportive, and the staff is dedicated and passionate. I am truly blessed to be at such a wonderful school.

What is your motivation?

My motivation is always the students. Every decision we make is based on the question, “What is best for the students?” At the end of the day, if every student gained in knowledge, felt safe and learned to be a model citizen, we have succeeded.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

Walking into classrooms and seeing great instruction and students

REPORT CARD

learning is what keeps me coming back every day.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

Outside of school, I spend as much time with my wife and two boys.

Much of that time is involved with soccer. My two boys both play, and I coach. Outside of that, we love to travel, visit the theme parks and eat!

Who was your favorite teacher when you were in school? Why? My favorite teacher was my firstgrade teacher, Ms. Damron. She was ahead of her time in education — allowing me to teach my peers and lead groups — but still keeping high expectations for me. She is one of the reasons I went into education.

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

Why? I wanted to be a Marine or freshwater biologist. My best friend and I were always on the rivers, creek and lakes — fishing, swimming and exploring. Halfway through college, though, I knew that education was my calling. I still spend time on the water and at the beach exploring,

fishing and swimming with my family.

What is your favorite children’s book and why?

“The Little Mouse, The Red Ripe Strawberry, and the Big Hungry Bear” by Don Wood. My boys loved this story, and we read it hundreds of times to them, so it has great memories for me.

What are your hobbies?

Soccer, fishing, traveling and good food!

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

Being able to go back in time 30 minutes to correct mistakes I make.

If you could only listen to three bands or artists for the rest of your life, what would they be and why?

For King and Country, Toby Mac and NF. It’s eclectic, but I love their honesty and messages.

— AMY QUESINBERRY

NOMINATE YOUR INFLUENCER

POSITION: Principal TIME AT SCHOOL: First year at SunRidge; 11th year at OCPS

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

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OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2020

OBSERVER SCHOOL ZONE

Volunteers revive butterfly garden Aubrey Clark’s family and friends recently joined Citrus Elementary staff to bring new life to her memorial butterfly garden at the school.

DANIELLE HENDRIX ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Aubrey Clark always has loved butterflies — after all, they are just as free-spirited and beautiful as she was.

It’s why a butterfly garden was planted in her memory a few years ago at Citrus Elementary in Ocoee, her former school.

On Jan. 20, 2015, 10-year-old Aubrey and her friend Jordan El-Ouadi were struck by a car near the intersection of Clarke and Silver Star roads. Jordan was injured; Aubrey remained in critical condition at Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children until family members were forced to take her off life support a few days later.

Over the years, time took its toll on Aubrey’s butterfly garden.

It became somewhat overgrown with weeds and covered in leaves.

Bridget Smith, media clerk at Citrus Elementary, has only been at the school for a couple of years, so she never got to meet Aubrey.

However, she knew Aubrey’s story — and she knew the garden needed some love.

“One of my duties in the after-

noon is to do car line, and I work out on the side of the building, and that’s where the little garden is,” Smith said. “When I was standing out there, I used to look at that all the time, and it was just such a sad thing that it kind of went into disrepair and nobody was taking care of it.”

Smith brought up the idea to work on the garden to one of her coworkers, as well as former Principal Delaine Bender. Coincidentally, her coworker met Karen Wheeler one day in February as Wheeler was dropping off her grandchild.

“Karen is a friend of Aubrey’s grandparents, and she mentioned that, ‘I hate to see that that garden went like that and nobody’s taking care of it — I wish we could do something about it,’” Smith said.

“We started talking back and forth, and that’s how we got it all going.”

Before spring break, the Citrus Elementary Student Council, school staff, Aubrey’s grandparents, Aubrey’s father and Karen Wheeler all pitched in one day to clean the garden out. The intention was to come back after spring

Courtesy photo

Aubrey Clark’s family, along with friends and school staff, helped bring the garden back to life.

break and finish the garden with new plants. Then, COVID-19 hit.

“We never came back to school after that,” Smith said. “Karen contacted me again sometime in June and said, ‘I would love if we could get this garden finished before the students come back — if they come back — in the fall.’”

As Smith talked with the school’s new principal, Robert Walker, he suggested rolling it into a full school-beautification project. So, at the end of July, school staff met again with Aubrey’s grandparents and father to finish the garden.

Lucas Nursery and Butterfly Encounter in Oviedo gave staff

advice on finding the best plants to attract butterflies, and an anonymous donor supplied all the new plants. And as fast as the team could put the plants in the garden, butterflies began landing on them. It brought Wheeler and Aubrey’s grandmother, Kathy Clark, to tears.

“They were both saying, ‘Oh, look, Aubrey’s here already,” Smith said. “Aubrey was a big fan of butterflies, so the whole intention was to make it a butterfly garden. … It looks amazing. I was just out there the other day, and we already have caterpillars on our milkweed that are turning into monarchs, so it’s really nice.”

Aubrey’s dad, Danny Clark, said the staff at Citrus Elementary has become like family since her death. When they told the Clarks that Aubrey’s garden was going to be revived, he said, everyone was on board.

“When we went out there to tear (weeds) all out of there, it was actually really cool,” Danny Clark said. “There were children out there — they didn’t even know Aubrey, but they know what that butterfly garden is. There were probably 15 kids out there, and they helped us tear everything out — pulling weeds, cutting bushes down. They were helping and they really did a really good job.”

When asked what he thought Aubrey’s reaction to the beautiful new butterfly garden would be if she could see it today, his response was simple: “She is here, and she has seen it.”

“I think she would love it,” Danny Clark said. “She always liked butterflies. I think she would be ecstatic over it.”

For the Clark family, the real gift is knowing that Aubrey always will be remembered. Danny Clark said the ongoing support from both Citrus Elementary and the city of Ocoee means the world to them.

“The staff there is amazing,” he said. “They treat us at Citrus like we’re a part of them still, and it’s been over five years now. They treat us just like we’re family, and we’re part of whatever they do.

We want them to know that … we’re very appreciate of what’s going on and love them for it.”

WE’RE IN THE

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OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2020

Step aside, Horatio Caine Windermere Prep is offering a forensic science class that teaches students how to analyze crime scenes.

TROY HERRING SPORTS EDITOR

They may not have David Caruso’s infamous sunglasses from “CSI: Miami,” but students at Windermere Preparatory School are learning all the same crime-scene skills.

As soon as you step through the science lab doors at Windermere Prep, you’re met by something not normally seen in a classroom — a “dead body.”

On the ground, the body — really stuffed clothes — lies, slain by the murder weapon that sits next to him: a bloody knife. Next to the body, on a classroom table, sits a crime scene investigator’s kit — including latex gloves and an evidence bag among other items.

Although the school is using a mixed model of online and inperson instruction for students, this scene in Marietta Wright’s classroom serves an introduction to a new class — forensic science.

“Right now, it’s just kind of background information about types of evidence, how to process a crime scene and such,” Wright said. “We’re trying to get our basic content knowledge down first — learning how crime scenes are processed and what forensic scientists do. Then, we talk a little bit about using some examples of different types of cases — I mentioned the O.J. Simpson case as one we will be investigating.

“The students will also be doing things like their own mock crime scenes,” she said. “They’ll set up their own, so they’re going to put up their own scenario together throughout the semester.”

Wright has a background in DNA analysis, and before arriving at Windermere Prep in 2018, she hosted CSI camps and utilized mock crime scenes to instruct the students at the college she worked at in Pennsylvania.

This past summer, Wright decided to introduce a forensic class — much to the delight of Windermere Prep students. Her class jumped from 11 to 39 students — all juniors and seniors. One of those students, senior Cadence Phillips, harbors an interest in criminal justice.

“It’s been very interesting to learn about what happens, and the stuff you don’t see behind the scenes,” Phillips said. “You see the stuff on the news or TV shows — that aren’t super accurate about it — but actually learning about what happens and what goes on is very interesting.”

And each 90-minute class is part lecture and part lab.

During the first part of class, Wright presents a slideshow of pertinent information about the process of crime scene investigation, as well as slides that test the observational prowess of students.

In the lab portion, Wright teaches

Marietta Wright, left, has a lot in store for her forensic science students.

Photos by Troy Herring

how to observe and process a crime scene properly — including collecting evidence and, eventually, learning about blood splatter, which will involve students using red dye with a dropper.

Although some students are online only and some in-person, the students will be able to learn how to work just like a real CSI team.

“Even if we do something here that’s hands-on, these students will be running the experience, then the students online will do the analysis, so we’ll be able to break it into groups,” Wright said.

“Because, again, when you’re processing crime scenes, not everyone does one thing. … So we’re going to have them collaborate and do that all together.”

In just a short amount of time, Wright’s students have learned a lot, and just about everything has been a revelation in some way, Phillips said.

“I kind of knew what this class

was going to be about, but since it was a new class, I couldn’t really ask anybody, ‘Hey, what did you do?’” Phillips said. “I think coming into this class — even in the first place — was a surprise, because you learn so much in such a short amount of time, but it’s easy to process information.”

The class will continue next spring semester, when students

will learn about analysis, interpretation and more.

Wright hopes her students not only learn about this interesting field, but also introduce them to the available career opportunities.

“No matter what you’re interested, you can find something in forensic science,” Wright said.

“There are so many different areas that you can do,” she said.

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SPORTS

Ajalon “AJ” Gillard has honed her skills during the recent AAU season and is ready to lead the Warriors this year. Page 20.

OCPS restricts face-to-face instruction for football players New start dates and a new guideline that places football players in protective bubbles are among new changes for the 2020 fall season.

2020 FOOTBALL PREVIEW

The area’s private schools — including CFCA, Foundation, TFA and Windermere Prep — are getting ready for the upcoming season.

IT’S HAPPENING! When some privates schools take the field Friday, Sept. 4, they will play the first high school games of any kind in Orange County since March.

TROY HERRING SPORTS EDITOR

L

adies and gentlemen, boys and girls, there is good news this day: Football is back.

While public schools have a few weeks to wait, some of the area’s private schools are seeing their studentathletes lace up their cleats for the first games of the fall athletic season Friday, Sept. 4.

Among the first schools to take to the field are CFCA and Foundation Academy — with CFCA traveling to Zephyrhills to take on Zephyrhills Christian Academy, while Foundation will host Orangewood — and no one is more excited than CFCA head coach Jeremy Campbell and Founda-

tion head coach Brad Lord.

“It’s a sense of calming that football is back — not that it was gone anywhere, but the uncertainty of when we could lace them up and put on pads and do those things with coronavirus,” Campbell said. “(It’s) just the joy of being able to say it’s game week. Kids practice and prepare for an opponent — your kids gets tired of doing 7-on-7 against each other. … There’s nothing like the competition when you get to compete against somebody you don’t see every day.”

Because the starting dates for football vary this year, the Observer will offer its 2020 Football Preview in two parts. This week, we present our preview of the new season for private schools in our coverage area.

CFCA

Head Coach: Jeremy Campbell 2019 record: 4-6 Key returners: Finley Voorheis, Wilkerson St. Juste, Caleb Hughes Key losses: Daveon Reynolds, Josh Virgil, Griffin Horn n Quick hit: The Eagles return four of five starters upfront on the offensive line, while the Eagles will be mixing it up with two new coaches in Marc Campbell — Jeremy Campbell’s father — and Terry Freeman. n Coach’s corner: “I told my guys and my coaching staff from the get-go, we’re excited to just play — I’m not talking about playoffs or championships, I’m talking about just being able to put on our green and white Eagles jersey and just play against another school.”

SCHEDULE Sept. 4 — @ Zephyrhills Christian Academy Sept. 11 — Seven Rivers Christian Sept. 18 — @ First Academy Sept. 25 — Trinity Christian Academy Oct. 9 — @ Legacy Charter Oct. 16 — Bishop McLaughlin Catholic Oct. 23 — @ Cedar Creek Christian Oct. 30 — TBA SEE PREVIEW PAGE 20

TROY HERRING SPORTS EDITOR

In the span of just a week, everything in the sports world for Orange County Public School athletes changed.

After months of waiting, coaches, athletes and administrators throughout Orange County finally received word from OCPS about the start of the fall sports season.

In its meeting Tuesday, Aug. 25, the OCPS School Board announced county schools would be allowed to begin preseason practices Monday, Aug. 31, after being delayed for an extended period of time due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

With the need to get studentathletes into game shape, the regular seasons for fall sports will begin two weeks following the start of preseason practices. The season openers for football will take place either Thursday, Sept.

17, or Friday, Sept. 18 — with the Jewish Rosh Hashanah holiday occurring on Friday, schools may opt for that Thursday.

The schedules for each sport will look much different than those in previous years. Football will go down from 10 to eight regular season games before the playoffs, which begin Friday, Nov. 13. The bowling and cross-country seasons each will have six regularseason weeks. Meanwhile, swimming and diving will have five weeks of play before district meets, and the volleyball and golf seasons will last for four regular-season weeks before the state playoffs.

While athletes adapt to the changes, fans and parents will have their own adjusting to do.

Before students are even allowed to participate, parents must sign the “Annual Sports Activity Participation” packet, which includes the new “Assumption of the Risk and Liability Relating to Coronavirus / COVID-19,” which states that parents “voluntarily assume all risks that I and/or my child(ren) may be exposed to or infected by COVID-19 as a result of participation in the Activity, and that such exposure or infection may result in personal injury, illness, sickness, and/or death.”

As far as game attendance, there will be no charge for tickets for the fall 2020 regular season. Furthermore, only two tickets will be given to each athlete, which will limit guest attendance at games.

In addition, hosting school faculty may attend games — but without guests.

With this limit in place, marchSEE CHANGES PAGE 20

20

SPORTS SPOTLIGHT

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THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2020

Preview

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

Ajalon “AJ” Gillard

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 19

FOUNDATION ACADEMY

After being limited in playing time last year for the West Orange High girls basketball team because of an injury, junior Ajalon “AJ” Gillard has been stepping up her game during the recent AAU season. Now Gillard is looking forward to the upcoming high school season.

When did you first get into basketball?

I first started taking it seriously when I was 7 or 8 years old. I was always in the gym, because my dad was a coach, ref, trainer and everything when we lived in Michigan, so I was always around it. I never was like, ‘Oh I’m going to play basketball.’ I was like, ‘No I don’t want to play basketball, ew,’ until I started playing at the YMCA and seeing him do his camps with other kids. I was like, ‘Oh this is fun.’ Getting to interact with other kids is what got me interested in getting better and actually trying to play ball.

THE BASICS SCHOOL: West Orange High GRADE: Junior AGE: 16 SPORT: Basketball POSITION: Point guard, shooting guard, small forward CLUB TEAM: Hoop Dreams Elite FIle photo

Cheerleaders will not be allowed on the sideline this season.

Was there anything you were trying to work on this season?

Definitely handling the ball more, because my last summer I had a lot of trouble with handling that pressure and being able to take over when I needed to and step my game up instead of just being a shooter.

I worked a lot on handling the pressure.

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

When I first started, I was a shooter, so I would always be the one to catch and shoot, and I never really was the attacker.

My energy was always there — like I’m a leader on the floor, that’s where I mostly get my looks for — but this year, I worked more on my attacking, and my body down low and my defense and getting stronger.

Now, it’s like I’m not only a shooter, but I can go off the dribble, I can do mid-range, and I work on both ends of the court. I can do anything, so my confidence is up there.

What’s the hardest part about playing guard?

I really like my position, and I don’t really see any of it as being hard, because I’ve always been a 1 or a 2 . But the hardest would be having to handle that pressure and knowing when to slow it down and when to set up a play — knowing what play to run and what defense the other team is in.

Do you have a highlight moment during your time in basketball?

I would say growing with my teammates — creating a family bond and just having fun.

It’s not only, ‘Are you developing yourself on the court?’ but (also) what you do on the court also plays off the court — you building a bond on the court. … I feel like that plays a big role in creating a family bond off the court, too.

What was the AAU season like for you this summer during the pandemic?

It wasn’t as bad as I thought it was going to be — we still got to get our reps in. Going to some of the tournaments and having to wait outside for your games, being patient to get in the gym — that was the only frustrating part, but we still had a great season overall.

— TROY HERRING

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Changes for fall CONTINUED FROM PAGE 19

ing bands members, cheer teams, dance teams, JROTC members and majorettes will not be allowed to participate in the sports season — which was met by sharp criticism from members in the community.

“Band kids are already in closed classrooms together — but outside where we can spread them out isn’t safe?,” asked District 1 Orange County Commissioner-elect Nicole Wilson in a comment on Facebook. “Marching band, dance team, cheer, ROTC can all adapt to social-distancing guidelines.

Why wouldn’t they be given the same opportunities and respect the full-contact sports teams are getting?”

Although cheer teams won’t be allowed to be on the football field, members still will be able to participate in practices starting Monday, Aug. 31, and will be able to do everything else cheerleaders normally do at schools. The idea, said Orange County Superintendent Dr. Barbara Jenkins, was to keep student-athletes safe.

“Every effort is being made to keep athletes safe during events, and fan attendance will be limited,” Jenkins said in a video update posted Friday, Aug. 28. “We’re working on creative ways to include bands, and cheerleaders and JROTC in the near future.”

Despite these measures, Jenkins also said nothing is guaranteed, and if positive cases of COVID-19 begin to increase, the plan could change quickly.

FOOTBALL BUBBLES

In the county’s second controversial move of the week, OCPS decided to take a note from the

NBA by creating a “bubble” for football players in the county.

“Because football presents the most challenges for student safety during the pandemic, extra measures are being put in place — such as maintaining a separate cohort for these students,” Jenkins said. “We’re also looking into regular COVID-19 testing for the teams.”

Parents of students who play football at Orange County schools received a call Friday, Aug. 28, that informed them their student-athletes were going to be restricted from face-to-face instruction.

Because of this, parents were given one of two options for their student-athletes: Forgo face-to-face instruction and utilize LaunchEd@Home, or be quarantined in a “bubble” — a specific spot on campus — where student-athletes will use the LaunchEd program alongside other members of the football team.

Parents were told they would have until noon Monday, Aug. 31 — the first day of football practice — to make their selection. The decision was met with fury from parents.

“You are penalizing them for playing football,” wrote Tracy Friend, who has a child at Windermere High, in an email to Jenkins. “This is very discriminatory against students who chose face-to-face learning. You are making them have to pick between their sport or a more quality academic and learning experience.”

Football players will be allowed to return to face-toface once the season is over — although they will be required to sit through a two-week waiting period to get back to their normal classes.

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Head Coach: Brad Lord 2019 record: 9-3 Key returners: Danny Stutsman, Bryan Thomas, Edward Byrd Key losses: Henry Austad, Michael Lemieux-Bott n Quick hit: Although Foundation lost some talent from last year — including starting quarterback Henry Austad — the Lions return some star power in players such as Oklahoma commit Danny Stutsman and big Edward Byrd on a defensive line loaded with talent. n Coach’s corner: “Right now I have eight games slated, so the first five games are in the pod.

Then I have a tough Northside Christian team, a brutal University Christian team — who is ranked third in the state in 2A — and then we’ll finish with West Oaks. And we will opt into the playoffs.”

SCHEDULE Sept. 4 — Orangewood Sept. 11 — @ Mount Dora Christian Sept. 18 — The Master’s Academy Sept. 25 — OCP Oct. 2 — @ Faith Christian Oct. 9 — @ Northside Christian Oct. 16 — University Christian Oct. 23 — Open Oct. 30 — @ West Oaks Academy at Ocoee Bulldog field Nov. 6 — Open

THE FIRST ACADEMY

Head Coach: Leroy Kinard 2019 record: 6-6 Key returners: Terrence Mosley II, Sean Johnson Jr., Will Richards Key losses: Lake Ellis, Robert Smith, Michael McFadden Jr. n Quick hit: After a slow start last season, the Royals stormed their way to a .500 record before falling in the regional final to Lakeland Christian. Now, after an extra year of experience, head coach Leroy Kinard’s players will have a chance to show the work they put in during the long offseason. n Coach’s corner: “I feel like we have a better team than we had last year. I feel like we had a lot of youth last year — I think we only graduated four seniors — and I knew that we had a tough schedule on the front side. I think we’re a bigger, stronger and faster team than we had last year.” n Schedule: TBD, but first game will be Friday, Oct. 2

WINDERMERE PREP

Head Coach: Jacob Doss 2019 record: 4-7 Key returners: Rafael Betancourt, Jacob Lowe, Travis Goodwin Key losses: Ross Fournet, Matthew Kane n Quick hit: Last year was a rebuilding year for head coach Jacob Doss’ Lakers team, which finished below .500 for the first time in recent memory. Luckily for the Lakers they’ll have a lot of young guys coming back like sophomore Jackson Bennett, as well as veterans in Jacob Lowe who will help lead the ship. n Coach’s corner: “Today — it’s Aug. 26 — we have about 90% of our offense installed, 95% of our defense and all of our special teams. This is the most ahead of the game we have ever been, and we’re just ready to get some pads going, man, and go.” n Schedule: TBD, but first game will be Friday, Oct. 2

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THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2020

I LOVE WEST ORANGE Jo Denmark says, “I love West Orange wildlife in my backyard. We’re so lucky to still have this beauty around us.”

TIMOTHY JON ROBERTSON DIED AUG. 17, 2020.

Timothy Jon Robertson, of Ocoee, Florida, passed away suddenly on Aug. 17, 2020. Tim was born in Cleveland, Ohio, on April 19, 1963.

He is survived by his wife, Mary Shimko-Robertson; and his daughters, Cheyenne Robertson and Nicole Shimko. He loved his grandchildren, Amerie and AJ. Tim loved to fish, camp, go to the beach, race RC cars and be with his friends and family.

Tim always put others before himself and loved his job and co-workers at Cemex/Kennedy.

A memorial service will be planned at a later date.

Winter Oak Funeral Home and Cremations.

The Observer is hosting this weekly contest, and winners will have their photograph featured. To enter, email your photo, along with your name, city and a caption, to amyq@ orangeobserver. com; put “I Love West Orange” in the subject line.

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Observer Media Group reserves the right to classify and edit copy, or to reject or cancel an advertisement at any time. Corrections after first insertion only. *All ads are subject to the approval of the Publisher. *It is the responsibility of the party placing any ad for publication in an Observer Media Group publication to meet all applicable legal requirements in connection with the ad such as compliance with town codes in first obtaining an occupational license for business, permitted home occupation, or residential rental property.

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THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2020

BAPTIST

METHODIST

2nd Campus: First Baptist Church @Horizon West Sundays: 9:45 a.m. All Ages FBCWG.org

UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST

First Baptist Church Pastor Tim Grosshans 125 E. Plant St, Winter Garden (407) 656-2352 Sundays: 8:30 a.m. Traditional 9:45 AM Bible Study 11:00 AM Contemporary Wednesdays: 6 p.m.- Awana

Starke Lake Baptist Church Pastor Jeff Pritchard PO Box 520 611 W Ave., Ocoee (407) 656-2351 StarkeLakeBaptist.org

First United Methodist Church 125 N. Lakeview Ave., Winter Garden (407) 656-1135 Services: Livestreaming Sunday @ 9 AM. Viewable on Facebook and Youtube

Windermere Union Church 10710 Park Ridge-Gotha Rd., Windermere (407) 876-2112 Adult Worship: 9 a.m.

Sunday School: 10 a.m.

WindermereUnion.org

NON-DENOMINATIONAL

Purpose Church Orlando 13640 W Colonial Dr. Ste 110, CHURCH OF GOD Winter Garden Ocoee Church of God (407) 654-9661 Pastor Thomas Odom Sunday Service: 10:05 a.m.

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We realize that not everyone is ready to move forward for any number of reasons.

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TEXT

“MHM” TO 4 1 4 4 4 TO DONATE

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