05.05.22 West Orange Times & Observer

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

HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY

Observer Winter Garden, Ocoee, Oakland

YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.

VOLUME 89, NO. 18

FREE

YOUR TOWN DON’T MISS CINCO DE SEIS! The city of Ocoee is partnering with its downtown businesses to host an upcoming block party.

The Cinco de Mayo block party will include food, drinks and music from 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, May 6, at 102 W. McKey St., in downtown Ocoee.

The party will include many of the downtown businesses, including Toll Road Brewing Company, Bike Life, Ocoee Taco Company, Nessa’s BBQ, Let it Go Lifestyle, DG Doughnuts and Pelican’s SnoBalls. In addition, the Book Rack also will be open.

Residents can kick off the evening in front of the Emporium where they can enjoy a glass of wine and relish in 30% off all inventory.

McKey Street will be blocked off for the event.

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THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2022

Raising their voices Ocoee High School presents ‘Songs for a New World.’ PHOTOS ON 14.

Making waves

COOL OFF IN OCOEE’S POOL The Ocoee Parks and Recreation Department kicks off the summer with the opening of its Family Aquatic Facility. The pool opens for the season Saturday, May 7, at the Jim Beech Recreation Center, 1820 A.D. Mims Road. For more information, call (407) 905-3180 or visit ocoee.org/608/FamilyAquatic-Center.

Spike in car burglaries causes concern About 20 cars were burglarized in one day at The Retreat at Windermere last month.

SEE PAGE 8.

Photos by Annabelle Sikes

Kelly Carr, director of operations and programs, and Sara Meyer, founder and executive director, serve the community through Eight Waves.

Eight Waves supports and advocates for vulnerable, at-risk children, schools and families in under-resourced communities. STORY ON PAGE 4.

Kemaray Scott and Hailey Santora practiced reading exercises together.

Courtesy photo

FEMALE PHENOMS

FIZZ THE SEASON

Shelby Quillinan competed with an allfemale team from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in an aviation contest.

SEE PAGE 2.

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Oakland Nature Preserve uncorks an evening of fun at the 2022 Bubbly on the Boardwalk. SEE PAGE 12.

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THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2022

Embry-Riddle team competes in global maintenance competition AMY QUESINBERRY COMMUNITY EDITOR

Students from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University have returned from Dallas, where they competed in the international Aerospace Maintenance Competition during the MRO Americas 2022 aviation conference. This was the first time the school sent an all-female team to compete.

The five women — Windermere High School graduate Shelby Quillinan, as well as Hannah Daren, Iram Rai, Vanessa Vowotor and Tea Galon — tried out for the team and were selected to participate in what has been called the Olympics for aviation maintenance.

The competition, hosted April 25 through 28 by Snap-On, involved 90 teams, 27 separate events and multiple heats. Quillinan said each participant took part in nine events ranging from tire inspection to engine blade removal.

Quillinan competed in dent

inspection (sponsored by 8 Tree and Alaska Airlines), air data test (Barfield), a quick bond XR progress that used augmented reality to fasten pieces together, aircraft tire inspection (Michelin), pedestal light replacement (American Airlines), electrical troubleshooting (Daniels Manufacturing Corp.), a virtual reality paint booth, power troubleshooting (Nida Corp.) and simulated spacecraft vacuum loading (Easter Florida State).

All but one of the events were based on time.

“The maximum amount of time was 15 minutes on each one,” Quillinan said. “Whoever got it the fastest, so least amount of points, won. There were also penalties if you did something incorrectly or if you used your tools incorrectly. It was all based on team effort. All the other 18 events that my partners had to do, it was an accumulation of all our times.”

The coach isn’t saying where the team placed, but Quillinan said she thinks they came in around 10th place. The good news is four of the five are returning to Embry Riddle next year so they will have another chance to try out for the team.

“We’re ready for next year,” she

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said. “This was our first time going.

It was a learning experience, and we are more prepared for what to expect.

The first (event) I was shaking I was so nervous.”

She applied for and received the Phoebe Omlie Award, a scholarship named for the first female aircraft mechanic.

Although the team didn’t win any of the events, it did walk away with the title of Dream Team based on online voting and took second place for professionalism. The team returned to Daytona Beach with a banner to hang in the department building.

Second place came with a certificate and a cash prize, and the women split $2,500.

Shelby graduated from Windermere High in 2019 and is the daughter of John and Kim Quillinan, of Winter Garden.

She is a junior at Embry-Riddle and is majoring in aviation maintenance science. She will obtain her Airframe & Powerplant certificate, which gives her Federal Aviation Administration certification to work on planes, plus her Bachelor of Science degree.

“I’ve always been like very technical and hands-on,” Quillinan said. “When I was younger I wanted to be a car mechanic. But planes are quite a bit more money.”

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Shelby Quillinan, center, of Winter Garden, was one of five members of an allfemale team competing in the global maintenance competition.

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Photos by Annabelle Sikes

Kari Vargas, left, president and CEO of AdventHealth Winter Garden, and Bailey Ringering, program director, strategic operations, West Orange and South Lake markets.

It’s finally here!

AdventHealth’s new five-story tower features 80 beds and space for new services including advanced gynecology, cardiology, gastroenterology, general surgery, neurology, spine health and urology.

ANNABELLE SIKES STAFF WRITER

A

dventHealth this week welcomed its first patients to its new inpatient tower in Winter Garden.

The $229.5 million, five-story tower at 2000 Fowler Grove Blvd. has 80 beds and measures about 227,000 square feet.

The new inpatient tower, which broke ground in 2019, will offer a multitude of new services, including advanced gynecology, cardiology, gastroenterology, general surgery, neurology, spine health and urology.

Kari Vargas, president and CEO of AdventHealth Winter Garden, said the organization designed the building with the patient at the center of its thinking and an emphasis on “whole person care.”

“I’m proud of what we do and how we care for the whole person, mind, body and spirit, and we do that in the way that Christ would have done it,” Vargas said. “I’ve never felt like I had to compromise my values, because they’re so aligned with this organization, and you truly see and feel that when you come into this establishment.”

QUAINT QUALITIES

Vargas said the tower aims to complement the existing services the facility already has and will be a fullservice community hospital.

The 9 7,0 0 0 - s q u a re - fo o t freestanding emergency room now will serve as the hospital’s emergency department.

“We want people to be able to receive their trusted AdventHealth care close to home,” Vargas said.

Since 2000, the Winter Garden

area has grown quickly, adding more than 30,000 residents to the area.

As the community continues to expand, the health care facility is adjusting to dedicate its efforts to the need.

AVAILABLE ADDITIONS

Stepping into the new inpatient tower, ground floor visitors are welcomed with the ambiance of what they know is a hospital but what feels like home.

Vargas said AdventHealth wants to be innovative and cutting-edge while also having a personal touch.

Quality and safety is as important as the experience.

Large glass windows flow throughout the facility and provide an abundance of natural light.

The ground floor is also home to a multitude of conference room space, which allows residents and the health care staff to continue in their mission of educating the community.

Vargas said the hospital seeks not only to care for people when they’re sick, but also provides a place of comfort for the community to care for people in health.

The neutral, calming colors of the hospital interior complement the artwork adorning the walls. The rich history of the area’s citrus groves is featured with unique artwork and even a mural on the back wall of the indoor dining area.

The indoor dining area offers an array of food options for patients and their families. The cafeteria will focus on healthy, fresh food.

AdventHealth officials said the company has worked to ensure it can bring food to its teams, patients and guests that will provide comfort but in a healthier way. For example, the organization has invested in air

Oakland installing stop signs at trail intersections Commissioners also held a workshop on multi-family housing to determine how to approach proposed projects in the future.

AMY QUESINBERRY COMMUNITY EDITOR

The Oakland Town Commission is doing its part in keeping West Orange Trail users as safe as possible.

At the April 26 meeting, elected officials passed a resolution that allows the town to add stop signs for north-south vehicle traffic at key trail intersections.

The signs should be in place this week.

A yearlong study by the traffic consulting firm Myra Planning and Design determined the intersections at Starr, Arrington, Cross, Daniels, Walker and Nixon streets would benefit by the addition of stop signs.

Winters Landing Drive and Tubb

Street, also part of the study, already have signs in place.

According to the study, further analysis is required where there is construction, where the intersections with the trail are not 90 degrees or where there is limited vehicular stacking distance, such as at Gulley Avenue/Jefferson Street, Machete Trail and Hull Island/Simeon Road.

Myra Monreal, of the consulting firm, reported 56 crash reports from 2016 to 2020. Within the study area, there was an average of 11 motorist and non-motorist crashes per year.

Twenty years ago, she reported, there was a higher volume of traffic on the intersecting roads. Today, trail traffic exceeds road traffic in that area of Oakland.

The stop signs along the trail will remain because they belong to Orange County.

APARTMENT DEPARTMENT

The Town Commission held a work session prior to the commission meeting to discuss the future of multi—family housing developments

The five-story tower cost $229.5 million and spans 227,000 square feet.

BY THE NUMBERS

15,500

The number of cubic yards of concrete used to construct the tower. That’s enough concrete to build an 18-mile, two-lane road from AdventHealth Winter Garden to AdventHealth Orlando.

1,750

The amount in tons of structural and reinforcing steel used in the tower. That’s comparable to the weight of 21 space shuttles.

400

The number of construction jobs the tower brought to the area. Now open, the tower also will bring 400 medical and support jobs to the community.

fryers to be able to bring fried food in a healthier manner in addition to fresh produce available in the farmer’s market corner.

Another unique aspect of the facility is its outdoor courtyard located next to the tower.

The green space will allow friends and family to step outside to get sunshine and fresh air during their stay.

Each of the inpatient rooms are single occupancy and feature a private bathroom. Wall monitors keep an eye on patient oxygen levels and can alert staff to any abnormal issues.

In addition, small white boards are located in the room so staff, patients and family members can stay up to date on the latest medical information.

“We want to make sure we are serving the patients and the families as best as we can and we know communication is really important for both the care team and the family,” Vargas said. “This is a labor of love,

IN OTHER NEWS n At the Town Commission meeting, elected officials approved the consent agenda, which included the acceptance of improvements to the Oakland portion of the 18-lot Lake Apopka Sound neighborhood and to Starr Street and its utilities.

In addition, the commission passed a resolution approving the Phase Two final plat for Lake Apopka Sound, a small development on 9.5 acres. n Applicant Allen Jacobs was granted permission to expand the 720-square-foot building at 5 E. Oakland Ave. The additional square footage will measure about 4,800 square feet: a two-story addition to the west end of the existing building plus a single story to the north. This will be the first project to come in the

and how the town should approach them. Town Planner Jay Marder walked commissioners through the town’s history with multi-family dwellings.

According to town officials, after the commission approved The Avenue at Oakland apartment complex, the developer pulled a “bait and switch”

The indoor dining area will provide healthy comfort food to its inhabitants.

and we are really passionate about what we do and what we stand for.”

The entire hospital also has a centralized patient monitoring system. There is a full service lab, seven surgery rooms and a dedicated imaging level which features technology like X-rays and CT scans.

AdventHealth even thought about its patients in terms of smaller details, deciding not to put traditional lights down the center of the corridor in the patient floors. Vargas explained most patients are on a bed lying down, and the staff does not want the light shining directly in the eye and causing discomfort.

The new tower also has a chapel to serve people who are going through some of the most difficult times of their lives. The chapel is in addition to the existing chapel near the emergency department.

New parking will now be available for team members in the back of the building, clearing up parking space in the front for patients and family members.

FAMILY FUTURE

According to AdventHealth Winter Garden, about 60% of its staff are local residents, allowing the

town under the Complete Streets guidelines. A parking lot will be constructed on the east side of the property. The resident to the east has asked that the applicant install a fence to separate the two properties. n A representative of Oakland Avenue Charter School gave a presentation on the school’s technology program and gave an update on its infrastructure, hardware management and system management. n Mayor Pro Tem Mike Satterfield read a proclamation recognizing Teacher Appreciation Week and Teacher Appreciation Day. n The commission approved the appointment of Tim Watts as a regular member on the Planning and Zoning Board.

on the town, so the town set its first six-month moratorium on such construction in March 2018. It then was extended for another six months.

During that time, the town adopted new zoning code and architectural design guidelines.

Marder stressed the commission’s desire to keep Oakland’s “Mayberry”

employees to embed themselves in the needs of their neighbors, friends and family.

For Vargas, it’s an exciting time in AdventHealth’s journey but also in her personal journey.

Vargas has lived in West Orange County since the mid-1980s and served as an intern for AdventHealth for two years in her graduate program at Rollins College before joining the team upon graduation.

On Jan. 8, 2021, she was named president and CEO for the AdventHealth Winter Garden location and CEO for the West Orange and South Lake market located in AdventHealth’s Central Florida Division.

Now, she is a huge part of the opening of the inpatient tower.

“It’s very personal for me,” she said. “It’s truly amazing watching it come together. Every time we were in the building, we saw something new added on and we saw the vision coming together.”

AdventHealth said it plans to open Winter Garden in a phased approach, with plans for additional operating rooms already on the way for the fall.

charm but acknowledged there are three pieces of property that are appropriately suited for multi-family housing.

“The (West Colonial Drive) corridor is where things are going to happen,” Marder said.

The goal is to “humanize” Colonial, he said.

“There was a pretty good consensus with Planning & Zoning and Architectural Review Board —there is room for multiple-family housing,” Marder said. “There’s been 25% rental housing in the town forever, since the early 2000s. You might not see rental housing, but it’s there and it’s pretty significant. … Every day there are people looking for apartment space.”

“It’s not a matter of ‘if’ we need,” Satterfield said. “It’s a matter of how many we need? … What do we want to look like, and how fast do we want to get there?”

“I’d like to stay like Mayberry,” Commissioner Sal Ramos said. “If people are going to come here and ask for an apartment, it needs to be a Mayberry apartment. A gas station needs to look like a Mayberry apartment.”

“If somebody makes an offer on a hotel, it needs to look like a Mayberry hotel,” Ramos said. “We can’t get this wrong again. We don’t have the space. … We only have a few spaces left.”

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THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2022

‘It’s not supposed to be easy; it’s supposed to be possible’ STAFF WRITER

T

EIGHT WAVES Phone number: (352) 255-7350 Email: 8wavesyouth@gmail.com Address: 1136 E. Plant St., Winter Garden Website: eightwaves.org Chosen Child: eightwaves.org/ chosen

Friedrich Hayek

“Road to Serfdom,” 1944

Design Editor / Jessica Eng, jeng@OrangeObserver.com Community Editor / Amy Quesinberry, amyq@OrangeObserver.com Staff Writer / Andrea Mujica, amujica@OrangeObserver.com Staff Writer / Annabelle Sikes, asikes@OrangeObserver.com Multimedia Advertising Executives / Iggy Collazo, iggy@OrangeObserver.com Cyndi Gustafson, advertising@OrangeObserver.com Creative Services / Lindsay Cannizzaro, lcannizzaro@OrangeObserver.com Advertising Operations Manager / Allison Brunelle, abrunelle@OrangeObserver.com

CONTACT US

Kelly Carr and Sara Meyer are two of the smiling faces behind the organization.

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

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

EIGHT WAVES

Eight Waves invests in the lives of children, youth and families who live in under-resourced communities by working together, building the healthy support systems they need to thrive, and empowering them to create lasting change in their own lives and communities.

The Winter Garden program’s leaders envision a community where every child experiences a variety of positive and encouraging opportunities.

The opportunities then provide a sense of belonging and allow each child the ability to achieve his or her full potential both individually and as a member of the community.

With a background in counseling, Meyer connected with the West Orange Dream Center and began to meet with different families and children to offer support and experience.

After the 2021 shooting, she began to comprehend the extreme need of under-resourced locals.

What began as a tutoring service turned into so much more. After meeting with the kids, Meyer realized the reading level of many individuals was so low that tutoring was not a sufficient option and they needed to do reading intervention.

Kelly Carr, director of operations and programs for Eight Waves, said the students could not understand the directions for the other subjects because they were not reading and understanding them.

She said when the students are struggling with reading, they are generally not interested in practicing the skill — especially when many of them deal with learning disabilities.

According to the Florida Literacy Coalition, more than 2.6 million adults in Florida— or 20% of those 16 and older — lack even the most basic reading skills, leading the area to have the third lowest adult literacy level of all the states. In addition, according to the Literacy Project, 61% of lowincome families have no books at all in their homes for their children, 46% of Florida’s students entering fourth grade do not read proficiently and one in four American children grow up not learning how to read.

Meyer said she also thinks the pandemic had an impact on student growth.

In 2021, the Eight Waves curriculum focused on reading skills, helping children from ages 2 to 18 stay on track developmentally and increase their world through reliance and an ability to confidently read.

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

Editor and Publisher / Michael Eng, meng@OrangeObserver.com

ANNABELLE SIKES

hree teenagers were shot May 26, 2021, in front of a home on Horizon Street in Winter Garden.

That day changed everything for Sara Meyer, founder and executive director of Eight Waves.

Meyer came to help provide crisis management for victims and their families. She said she quickly saw the lack of support and resources for young people who live in poverty throughout Central Florida.

During her time with the children, Meyer said, the students struggled immensely with reading, lacked confidence and were looking for direction with opportunities.

“For under-resourced families, sometimes, there’s just sickness and hygiene, and then even getting to school consistently is difficult,” Meyer said. “They’re dealing with so many outside life factors that reading isn’t their top priority.”

After a few months of research, dedication and building trust within under-resourced communities, Meyer developed eight initiatives to break generational poverty: reading intervention; mentorship; birthday parties; single mom program; life experiences; family stability; books for babies; and hygiene help.

That’s when Eight Waves formed.

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Charlotte Carr practiced reading exercises in her workbook.

Photos by Annabelle Sikes

Mi’Asia Caldwell and Addie Satterfield worked on arts and crafts.

Meyer said the reading is the most popular initiative and the most needed.

HEART TO SERVE

Carr said she and Meyer had a strong connection from the first time they met on social media. Meyer had posted asking for supplies and resources.

Carr, an Usborne Books and More representative, offered to help.

After the two met, Carr, a teacher by trade for more than 10 years, said she knew she wanted to do more than just give the books. She wanted to participate in the program.

“I’ve always really had this heart to serve, and I love kids — I have three of my own — so when Sara told me about the program, both of us are kind of criers, so we were really emotional,” Carr said. “We immediately started working together. Once you meet these kids and you start working with them. … I just love these kids so much, and there’s no other option other than to be like 110% involved.”

Meyer said her and Carr’s missions and visions for the future aligned almost perfectly.

“My biggest goal is for these kids to walk across the stage for high school graduation, to build their confidence, to let them know that there’s people that are rallying for them, the community itself is rallying — it’s not just one person — there are hundreds of people behind her,” Meyer said, pointing to one of the children. “I’m sorry I get so emotional, but even bigger than that, it’s about living a fulfilling life and knowing they have a destiny and something beautiful for them. It’s high school, but it’s also after that and watching them become life leaders.”

And the program is doing just that.

Kenda Brown, a mother from the Eight Waves program, said it’s been life changing for her and her family.

“Eight Waves has helped me and my kids tremendously,” Brown said.

“Words can’t express how they made us feel like family. Food, personal hygiene items, words of inspiration that help not only the adults but the kids as well. Showing them that we are

THE EIGHT INITIATIVES

1

Reading Intervention.

Personalized intervention that features reading bodies to emulate oneon-one tutoring and support.

2

Mentoring. Support, encouragement and friendship to help students learn important life skills.

3

Birthday Wish.

Celebrating children and making them feel special — even if they’re unable to at home because of financial hardships.

4

Mothers Mentors.

Helping moms by providing resources, support and one-on-one connection.

5

Books for Babies.

Bringing books to children and families to begin language development at the earliest age possible.

6

Hygiene Help.

Connecting with the community and schools to fill backpacks with hygiene needs.

7

Life Experiences.

Offering opportunities outside of the home environment to see all the beautiful things the world has to offer.

8

Family Stability.

Working with families to find the resources they need so they are able to thrive.

all one and that there’s always someone there to talk to, to cry on and most of all depend on.”

Meyer said she feels blessed to give through the program.

“This is my blessing that I get to connect with them, that I get to hear their stories, that I get the trust of the moms, and that was not easy,” she said. “It’s not supposed to be easy; it’s supposed to be possible.”

HELPING HAND

Eight Waves has a variety of dedicated local organizations that assist in its mission. Those include West Orange Dream Center, One Winter Garden, Hope Center, The West Orange Junior Service League, Gymnastics USA and Buses n’ Backpack.

Meyer said she would love to partner with even more local organizations to make sure the program is targeting as many West Orange families as it can.

By the end of 2022, Eight Waves is hoping to support 100 vulnerable children ($43,500), support 10 families through family stability ($12,000), support 10 single moms ($30,000) and partner with 300 families at 15 local schools for hygiene help ($36,000).

When the program started, it only had five children; now, it averages around 35, with the goal being 50.

Although the program is growing quickly, Meyer said it is important each child has the individual attention he or she needs.

There are several ways both individuals and organizations can get involved. Meyer said Eight Waves currently needs volunteers — from people who can donate an hour of their time to those who can help run a hygiene drive and other activities.

One of the program’s newest initiatives is the Chosen Child sponsorship.

“It’s not if these kids graduate, it’s when they do,” Meyer said. “Everyone says, ‘You can’t save them all,’ and my response is always, ‘Why not?’ If we don’t come into it with that mentality that we can help every child in this program, then we don’t have the right attitude. Every child here is fully capable, and they deserve that chance.”

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

To contact us, email to Michael Eng, meng@OrangeObserver.com.

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WEST ORANGE TIMES

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URGENT NEED PLEASE DONATE! Most have no idea just how close they are to losing EVERYTHING. No one has ever planned to be homeless.

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Never in our history, until this Pandemic, followed by a disrupted economy, have we had to use our general operating funds to meet just the basic needs such as food, clothing and hygiene needs of those that no longer have a place to call “Home”.

With that, won’t you please prayerfully consider a one-time gift to Matthew’s Hope and/or become a Sustaining Donor or Community Partner with an ongoing monthly or quarterly gift?

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THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2022

POWERFUL IN PINK West Orange women donned hard hats and strapped on tool belts to help build homes through West Orange Habitat for Humanity.

ANDREA MUJICA STAFF WRITER

W

omen volunteers for West Orange Habitat for Humanity gathered together in Winter Garden Saturday, April 30, for the Women Build 2022 event.

“I cannot tell you how important it is that each of you have taken some of your time and energy and all that’s within you to put those nails in those walls,” Treasure Title President JoAnne Quarles told the volunteers.

“I have witnessed some of the former owners and some of the other residents that we have, and I’ve talked to them. Their stories of how they got to this place and what they had to go through to get to this (are) unbelievable. … If you ever want to know, join one of our committees of Habitat and you should learn. It will give you great compassion for those.

“Families should never have to decide within a safe place to live and things like insurance, healthy food, necessary medicine,” she said. “Everyone deserves to build a foundation for a stable, healthy future for themselves and their families, and I know personally that these families want that foundation and those families that I’ve worked with before, they have that now, here, because of West Orange Habitat. No matter who they are or where they live or how much money they earn. This is why we are here ladies, and I thank you for that.”

According to Quarles, prior to the pandemic, more than 17 million U.S. households were paying half or more

Photos by Andrea Mujica

The “Super FN Awesome” team raised the most money out of all the fundraising teams.

Volunteers Chrissy Hayden, Nancy Sedacca, Jennifer Pilgrim and Cindy Scarpone took a well-deserved water break.

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of their income on a place to live.

That’s one in six Florida homeowners.

“At West Orange Habitat for Humanity, we know that a family should never have to spend more than 30% of their income on a home,” Quarles said. “We understand the complexity around the cost of the home, and we also know the struggles, the stress and the pain of too many families in our community.”

Winter Garden Mayor John Rees was present at the construction site.

“The very land you are standing on for these homeowners was donated by the city as we continue to partner with Habitat building safe, decent and affordable housing for all,” he said. “When these four (homes) get through, we are going to have nine homes here in Winter Garden. That’s why we are excited to welcome these new homeowners as residents of the city of Winter Garden and look forward to the day we can celebrate with each of them as they receive keys to their new homes.”

New homeowners Tiffany Mejia and her daughter, Alize, were grateful to see so many people helping them build their new home.

“This is our first home, our first chance to have a home,” she said.

Homeowners Tiffany Mejia, Christina Carbajal and Shannon Ligon were happy to see so many friendly faces helping to build their new homes.

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OrangeObserver.com

OBSERVER

“To me this means to be able to put the keys in my door, our home. To be part of something that I know I always searched for, to be part of something that I know I always wanted.”

For new homeowner Christina Carbajal, the third time was the charm.

She attempted to apply for Habitat two more times before having the courage to turn in the paperwork on her third try. Carbajal has three children: Luis, 18; Lizzet, 17; and Leila, 8.

“Habitat means a lot to me and my children,” she said. “I took a leap of faith, and by His grace I am here today.”

Shannon Ligon has been coming to the site every other week lately. She and her daughter, Neirah, 7, are excited to see their home completed.

“Today, you are helping finish what soon will be my home, for me and my daughter,” she said.“I have always been a dreamer. I dreamed of graduating high school, and I did that. I dreamed of becoming a mom to a beautiful baby girl, and I did that. … Today all of you are helping yet another dream of mine come true, to become a homeowner.”

The owner of the fourth house has not yet been selected.

The Women Build 2022 included two shifts, morning and afternoon, between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. As of May 1, the fundraiser had raised $96,445. The goal is $100,000.

“We always talk about men, so it’s always nice to see a bunch of women doing just the same,” Mejia said.

“Showing that we can — just as well as they can.”

|

THURSDAY,MAY 5, 2022

7

TOP INDIVIDUAL FUNDRAISERS 1. Carol Kennedy: $8,200 2. Cyndi Gustafson: $2,620 3. Paige Winkler: $2,000 4. Meredith Nagel: $1,600 5. Jo Barsh: $1,500

TOP 10 TEAMS 1. SuperFNawesome: $12,545 2. The League of Extraordinary Women: $7,410.90 3. Dynamic Divas of Healthcare — AdventHealth: $7,105 4. Truss UR Treasure: $5,675 5. Barsh’s Badas* Bangers: $5,400 6. Orlando Health Community Engagers: $5,200 7. West Orange Foundation: $5,015 8. Meritage Homes Cares: $5,000 9. The Real Housewives of Oakland Park: $4,685 10. Bee the Change: $4,083

Volunteers were ready and willing to do their part for Habitat for Humanity.

“Habitat means a lot to me and my children. I took a leap of faith, and by His grace I am here today.”

— Christina Carbajal, prospective homeowner

Volunteers Jessica Owens, Tracey Morrissey and Lisa Azzizzo helped one another during the morning shift.

Advent Health volunteers Liliana Parra and Josie Zarate painted the outside of one of the new houses.

Jennifer Pilgrim worked hard during the morning shift.

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1/26/22 7:57 AM

OBSERVER

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OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2022

Common sense can help protect you, your property

YOUR NEWS. YOUR WAY.

ANNABELLE SIKES STAFF WRITER

From print to podcasts, the Observer makes it easy for you to stay connected to your neighborhood.

As the Horizon West area continues to grow, so do all other aspects of development — including traffic congestion, school overcrowding and, yes, crime.

Most recently, about 20 vehicles on April 12 were burglarized at The Retreat at Windermere apartment complex.

Orange County Sheriff’s Office still is searching for the suspect(s) responsible for the crimes.

Adam Michael Gordon was among the victims.

“Early this morning, my car (along with approximately 20 others) was broken into in The Retreat at Windermere apartment complex,” Gordon wrote on Facebook. “Multiple personal belongings were stolen from inside.”

This most recent rash of vehicle burglaries is just the latest in a growing trend. According to Sheriff’s Office data, 79 car burglaries were reported from January to April 2021 in Horizon West. So far this year, the Sheriff’s Office has responded to 42.

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FORAGING FOR FIREARMS

According to Sheriff’s Office officials, vehicle burglaries are most commonly committed by teens looking for guns.

More than 700 guns were reported stolen in car burglaries throughout Orange County in 2020 and 2021.

“We could cripple the gun trade among these young people if gun owners would stop leaving unsecured firearms in their vehicles,” officials said. “We need responsible gun owners to do the right thing.”

Hamlin resident Bryan May, a security consultant and owner of American Home Security, said he has seen the crime associated with the Horizon West area’s growth and exposure.

May said the area currently has a large influx of guns; people move from a multitude of different areas and feel the need to protect themselves in an unfamiliar community.

He said teens cannot buy guns easily and do not get prosecuted the same way when they are first-time committers.

That entices them to steal guns from vehicles.

“It’s the same thing that always happens,” May said. “It’s the times, and people are desperate in these times.

I’ve noticed it’s mostly the perimeter communities that deal with the most crime. Perimeter homes and lots are an easy in and an easy out for criminals.”

May said criminals will scout the location, usually close to where they live as they have to know the area, and observe.

Common mistakes he has noticed in the community are garage doors being left open or unlocked, and leaving valuable items visible in the car.

However, the biggest mistake: People don’t use the security devices they have.

“People typically don’t turn on their security systems at night — only when they’re out of town — because they think they’re home, so nothing will happen,” May said. “More than 90% of calls I receive for installations are after a break-in takes place. After six months or so, if nothing happens, the people often get bored or think the security is not working or not worth it, so they turn it off.”

Another common misconception May sees is the increased popularity in doorbell cameras as a way to stop crimes.

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INFORMATION n Report a break-in to the OCSO: ocso.com/e-report or call (407) 836-4357 n For security consultations or questions in the area, email Bryan May: info@americanhomesecurity. us

Courtesy photo

Car burglaries have become increasingly common in Horizon West.

“A criminal does not care if you take their picture, and it does not alert authorities,” he said.

LOCAL OCCURRENCES

Sasha Ordway’s car was burglarized less than two weeks ago. She went to Independence Elementary School to pick up her daughter and left the car parked about 30 to 50 feet away from the bench on which she sat to wait for her child.

Less than 10 minutes later, her car was burglarized.

When she got back and was unable to start the car, she realized something was wrong.

Ordway had left her key fob, wallet and purse in the car. Everything was gone.

She said a witness had seen two teenagers approach on bikes and enter into the car wearing black hoodies and masks.

Although Ordway filed a report, she said she has not heard anything back in over a week. She said she is afraid because the suspects have her key and address.

“I was just amazed at the time that it happened in,” she said. “It’s such a busy area. People saw them, and there were lots of cars around. They had no shame.”

Many other reports have been noted on social media including NextDoor.

Last week, Alexander Shoda said his car and at least four others were broken into at Lake Butler.

Andrea Thomad said her car was one of the others and that the suspects tried the passenger front window first, and having no success, then smashed the rear window.

SAFETY STEPS

To combat the car burglaries, the Sheriff’s Office recommends a series of tips for prevention.

Remove keys, guns and other valuable items from the vehicle and store them in a safe and secure location. Parking in a well-lit area, locking doors and arming necessary security systems can also help to lower the risk of a vehicle crime.

May said the smartest and safest thing to do when it comes to a living area is to have motion-activated flood lights. He said he suggests spending the extra money on a strobe light to blink when an alarm goes off, allowing emergency responses to be quicker when they can easily spot the house, alerting neighbors’ attention and possibly scaring off the intruder.

“If growth stops and we are community to community with no gray zone in-between, I think the crime will decrease,” May said. “In the meantime, I think it’s necessary to take these extra precautionary steps so we can keep our family and friends safe.”

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REAL ESTATE

OrangeObserver.com

OBSERVER

|

9

THURSDAY,MAY 5, 2022

Keene’s Pointe estate sells for $3.3M A

home in the Keene’s

half baths and 1,560 square feet of living area. Days on market: Six.

Pointe community

HAWKSMOOR

in Windermere topped

The home at 16729 Wingspread Loop, Winter Garden, sold April 28, for $622,000. Built in 2019, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,470 square feet of living area. Days on market: Three.

all West Orange-area residential real-estate transactions from April 23

The home at 16120 Parkwyn St., Winter Garden, sold April 26, for $586,900. Built in 2020, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 2,372 square feet of living area.

to 29.

The home at 6845 Valhalla Way, Windermere, sold April 29, for $3.3 million.

INDEPENDENCE/ SIGNATURE LAKES

Built in 2012, it has five

The home at 6717 Point Hancock Drive, Winter Garden, sold April 28, for $2.76 million. Built in 2022, it has five bedrooms, six-and-onehalf baths and 5,078 square feet of living area. Days on market: 11.

bedrooms, five baths, two half-baths and 7,438 square feet of living area. Days on market: 104.

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

DR. PHILLIPS

BAY HARBOUR PHILLIPS LANDING

imaginethatpics.com

The home at 6845 Valhalla Way, Windermere, sold April 29, for $3.3 million. This home is located on the 17th fairway of the Golden Bear Club.

BELLA NOTTE AT VIZCAYA

The home at 8236 Via Bella Notte, Orlando, sold April 27, for $775,000. Built in 2003, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 3,099 square feet of living area. Days on market: 12.

The home at 8322 Lake Serene Drive, Orlando, sold April 26, for $950,000. Built in 1996, it has four bedrooms, four baths and 3,575 square feet of living area. Days on market: Three.

The townhouse at 8266 Via Verona, Orlando, sold April 28, for $500,000. Built in 2003, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 1,946 square feet of living area. Days on market: 32.

BAY LAKES

CLUBHOUSE ESTATES

The home at 9005 Esguerra Court, Orlando, sold April 27, for $435,000. Built in 1983, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,631 square feet of living area.

BAYSHORE AT VISTA CAY AT HARBOR SQUARE

The townhouse at 8012 Cool Breeze Ave., No. 95, Orlando, sold April 25, for $385,000. Built in 2006, it has three bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 1,777 square feet of living area.

Days on market: Eight.

The home at 7001 Burnway Drive, Orlando, sold April 28, for $520,000. Built in 1981, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,567 square feet of living area. Days on market: Nine.

The home at 7109 Burnway Drive, Orlando, sold April 26, for $465,000. Built in 1982, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,521 square feet of living area.

Days on market: Three.

DELLAGIO

The home at 8316 Via Vittoria

Way, Orlando, sold April 29, for $1,015,000. Built in 2016, it has three bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 3,372 square feet of living area. Days on market: 52.

ESTATES AT PHILLIPS LANDING

The home at 8901 Elliotts Court, Orlando, sold April 27, for $1,185,000. Built in 2001, it has four bedrooms, four baths and 3,569 square feet of living area.

Days on market: Two. GRANADA VILLAS

The home at 7808 The Esplanade Court, Orlando, sold April 25, for $610,000. Built in 1988, it has three bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 1,852 square feet of living area.

POINT CYPRESS

The townhouse at 8938 Della Scala Circle, Orlando, sold April 25, for $595,000. Built in 2010, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 2,653 square feet of living area. Days on market: Two. SAND LAKE HILLS

The home at 8129 Caraway Drive, Orlando, sold April 27, for $465,000. Built in 1978, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 1,937 square feet of living area. Days on market: Four.

TOREY PINES

The home at 5121 Timberview Terrace, Orlando, sold April 26, for $900,000. Built in 1989, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 3,045 square feet of living area. Days on market: One. VISTA CAY AT HARBOR SQUARE

The condo at 5049 Shoreway Loop, No. 305, Orlando, sold April 29, for $455,000. Built in 2006, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,001 square feet of living area. Days on market: Five. realtor.com

Total Sales: 113 High Sale Price: $3.3 million Low Sale Price: $140,000

2,097 square feet of living area.

Days on market: 26.

VISTA CAY RESORT

The condo at 4126 Breakview Drive, No. 107, Orlando, sold April 25, for $310,000. Built in 2007, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,112 square feet of living area.

Days on market: Six. VISTAS AT PHILLIPS COMMONS

The townhouse at 6844 Sperone St., Orlando, sold April 28, for $405,000. Built in 2006, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 1,668 square feet of living area. Days on market: Three.

GOTHA GOTHA

The home at 1524 Hempel Ave., Windermere, sold April 29, for $430,000. Built in 1942, it has one bedroom, one bath and 915 square feet of living area. Days on market: 22.

PARK RIDGE

The home at 3698 Seminole St., Windermere, sold April 28, for $360,000. Built in 1993, it has three bedrooms, one-and-onehalf baths and 1,484 square feet of living area. Days on market: Three.

HORIZON WEST ASHLIN PARK

The townhouse at 11963 Water Run Alley, Windermere, sold April 29, for $350,000. Built in 2016, it has two bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 1,588 square feet of living area.

HAMILTON GARDENS

The home at 6212 Aralia Ivy Lane, Winter Garden, sold April 29, for $440,000. Built in 2020, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-

The townhouse at 14432 Pleach St., Winter Garden, sold April 26, for $369,375. Built in 2006, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 1,683 square feet of living area.

LAKE SAWYER SOUTH

The home at 8165 Jailene Drive, Windermere, sold April 25, for $725,000. Built in 2013, it has five bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 2,975 square feet of living area. Days on market: Four.

The home at 13246 Vennetta Way, Windermere, sold April 28, for $629,000. Built in 2008, it has four bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 2,628 square feet of living area. Days on market: 32.

LAKES OF WINDERMERE

The home at 12872 Penshurst Lane, Windermere, sold April 29, for $510,000. Built in 2004, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,151 square feet of living area.

Days on market: 14.

The home at 12987 Overstreet Road, Windermere, sold April 29, for $502,500. Built in 2008, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,926 square feet of living area.

Days on market: Three.

LAKESIDE AT HAMLIN

The home at 1507 Lake Hamlin Trail, Winter Garden, sold April 28, for $453,583. Built in 2022, it has four bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 2,515 square feet of living area.

LAKESIDE AT LAKES OF WINDERMERE

The condo at 8180 Boat Hook Loop, No. 109, Windermere, sold April 28, for $259,000. Built in 2006, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,161 square feet of living area. Days on market: Three.

SEE REAL ESTATE PAGE 10

380966-1

379021-1

The home at 8316 Via Vittoria Way, Orlando, sold April 29, for $1,015,000. It was the largest transaction in Dr. Phillips from April 23 to 29.

The condo at 5024 Shoreway Loop, No. 20706, Orlando, sold April 25, for $439,000. Built in 2006, it has three bedrooms, two baths and

SNAPSHOT

The home at 15631 Camp Dubois Crescent, Winter Garden, sold April 27, for $420,000. Built in 2014, it has three bedrooms, twoand-one-half baths and 1,704 square feet of living area.

OBSERVER

|

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2022

REAL ESTATE

ORCHARD HILLS

PRAIRIE MEADOWS

The home at 4990 Wildwood Pointe Road, Winter Garden, sold April 25, for $590,000. Built in 2016, it has four bedrooms, twoand-one-half baths and 2,689 square feet of living area. Days on market: Three.

The townhouse at 2011 Harebell Lane, Ocoee, sold April 26, for $323,520. Built in 2022, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,566 square feet of living area.

PRIMA VISTA

The home at 324 Pacheco Court, Ocoee, sold April 29, for $434,000.

Built in 1974, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,719 square feet of living area. Days on market: Three.

STOREY GROVE

The townhouse at 15066 Book Club Road, Winter Garden, sold April 25, for $430,000. Built in 2020, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,717 square feet of living area. Days on market: Three.

SAWMILL

The home at 6928 Sawtooth Court, Ocoee, sold April 25, for $370,250. Built in 1989, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,548 square feet of living area. Days on market: One.

SUMMERLAKE

The home at 8131 Pond Apple Drive, Winter Garden, sold April 28, for $612,500. Built in 2016, it has three bedrooms, two-andone-half baths and 2,486 square feet of living area. Days on market: Five.

The home at 8101 Red Stopper Lane, Winter Garden, sold April 27, for $471,000. Built in 2017, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 1,853 square feet of living area. Days on market: Three.

SUMMERLAKE GROVES

The home at 15557 Murcott Blossom Blvd., Winter Garden, sold April 25, for $620,000. Built in 2017, it has three bedrooms, twoand-one-half baths and 2,280 square feet of living area. Days on market: 12.

The townhouse at 8013 Jeremy Joseph Alley, Winter Garden, sold April 29, for $456,000. Built in 2017, it has three bedrooms, twoand-one-half baths and 1,696 square feet of living area. Days on market: Three.

WATERLEIGH

The home at 16238 Wind View Lane, Winter Garden, sold April 27, for $752,000. Built in 2016, it has four bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 2,784 square feet of living area. Days on market: Two. The home at 8870 Sonoma Coast Drive, Winter Garden, sold April 26, for $713,000. Built in 2021, it has three bedrooms, two-andone-half baths and 2,350 square feet of living area The home at 16512 Sea Glass St., Winter Garden, sold April 25, for $623,000. Built in 2021, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 2,472 square feet of living area. Days on market: Nine.

SHOAL CREEK

realtor.com

The home at 1303 Garrett Gilliam Drive, Ocoee, sold April 25, for $575,000. It was the largest transaction in Ocoee from April 23 to 29.

The home at 16214 Wind View Lane, Winter Garden, sold April 25, for $605,000. Built in 2016, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,031 square feet of living area.

Days on market: 10.

WATERMARK

OAKLAND TRAILS

The home at 2370 Standing Rock Circle, Oakland, sold April 28, for $625,000. Built in 2020, it has five bedrooms, three baths and 3,449 square feet of living area. Days on market: Four.

The townhouse at 9567 Amber Chestnut Way, Winter Garden, sold April 29, for $420,000. Built in 2018, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,789 square feet of living area. Days on market: Four.

OCOEE

WINDERMERE TRAILS

FOREST OAKS

The home at 9203 Outlook Rock Trail, Windermere, sold April 27, for $925,000. Built in 2015, it has five bedrooms, four baths and 3,611 square feet of living area. Days on market: Five.

WINDSTONE

The home at 12500 Climbing Vine Court, Windermere, sold April 25, for $615,000. Built in 2019, it has five bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 2,782 square feet of living area. Days on market: 50.

OAKLAND

LONGLEAF AT OAKLAND

The home at 1206 Painted Bunting Ave., Oakland, sold April 28, for $637,000. Built in 2021, it has four bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 3,053 square feet of living area. Days on market: Eight.

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BRENTWOOD HEIGHTS

The home at 802 Sullivan Ave., Ocoee, sold April 26, for $249,900. Built in 1965, it has three bedrooms, one bath and 1,117 square feet of living area.

The home at 1715 Ison Lane, Ocoee, sold April 27, for $347,000.

Built in 1986, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,371 square feet of living area. Days on market: 24.

The home at 302 Log Run Court, Ocoee, sold April 29, for $351,500. Built in 1985, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,550 square feet of living area. Days on market: Four.

FORESTBROOKE

The home at 3278 Fawnwood Drive, Ocoee, sold April 27, for $531,500. Built in 2006, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 3,758 square feet of living area. Days on market: Eight.

LAKE MEADOW LANDING

The townhouse at 1811 Terrapin Road, Ocoee, sold April 29, for

$398,719. Built in 2021, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,104 square feet of living area. Days on market: Five.

The home at 1815 Terrapin Road, Ocoee, sold April 26, for $351,119. Built in 2020, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,963 square feet of living area.

LAKE SHORE GARDENS

The home at 708 Vandergrift Drive, Ocoee, sold April 29, for $365,000. Built in 1976, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,334 square feet of living area. Days on market: Three.

LAKEVIEW VILLAGE

The home at 706 Lakeview Drive, Ocoee, sold April 27, for $352,000.

Built in 1986, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,657 square feet of living area. Days on market: Two. MCCORMICK RESERVE

The home at 1303 Garrett Gilliam Drive sold April 25, for $575,000.

Built in 2019, it has five bedrooms, three baths and 3,056 square feet of living area. Days on market: 64.

PRAIRIE LAKE VILLAGE

The home at 2490 Twisting Sweetgum Way, Ocoee, sold April 29, for $380,000. Built in 2001, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,766 square feet of living area.

Days on market: Two.

BR DENTAL 407-905-9965

The home at 612 Shoal Creek Drive, Ocoee, sold April 29, for $425,000. Built in 1995, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,014 square feet of living area. Days on market: One. SILVER GLEN VILLAGE

The home at 1741 Glenhaven Circle, Ocoee, sold April 26, for $530,500. Built in 1996, it has five bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 3,850 square feet of living area. Days on market: Two. VILLAGES OF WESMERE

The townhouse at 2105 Leather Fern Drive, Ocoee, sold April 29, for $315,000. Built in 2012, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 1,752 square feet of living area.

WESTYN BAY

The home at 677 Cimarosa Court, Ocoee, sold April 28, for $475,000.

Built in 2005, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,372 square feet of living area. Days on market: Six. The townhouse at 741 Fortanini Circle, Ocoee, sold April 29, for $310,000. Built in 2007, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 1,549 square feet of living area.

SOUTHWEST ORANGE LAKE SHEEN RESERVE

The home at 10454 Wiscane Ave., Orlando, sold April 29, for $1 million. Built in 2002, it has five bedrooms, three baths and 3,894 square feet of living area. Days on market: Five.

NEWBURY PARK

The townhouse at 8579 Leeland Archer Blvd., Orlando, sold April

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OrangeObserver.com

OBSERVER

The home at 1014 Spring Loop Way, Winter Garden, sold April 29, for $453,000. Built in 1995, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,773 square feet of living area. Days on market: Three.

DANIELS LANDING

The townhouse at 13378 Daniels Landing Circle, Winter Garden, sold April 29, for $303,000. Built in 2005, it has two bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 1,234 square feet of living area. Days on market: Seven.

G.T. SMITH SUBDIVISION

The home at 202 S. Highland Ave., Winter Garden, sold April 29, for $700,000. Built in 1937, it has five bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,888 square feet of living area.

Days on market: Five.

GROVE PARK AT STONE CREST realtor.com

The home at 6717 Point Hancock Drive, Winter Garden, sold April 28, for $2.76 million. It was the largest transaction in Horizon West from April 23 to 29.

29, for $368,000. Built in 2007, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 1,512 square feet of living area. Days on market: Five.

PROVENCE AT LAKE SHEEN

The home at 10446 Provence Drive, Orlando, sold April 29, for $1.2 million. Built in 2012, it has six bedrooms, five-and-one-half baths and 5,250 square feet of living area.

Days on market: Six. The home at 8830 Grey Hawk Point, Orlando, sold April 26, for $1,155,000. Built in 2003, it has five bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths and 5,443 square feet of living area.

Days on market: 59.

ROYAL CYPRESS RESERVE

The home at 10763 Royal Cypress Way, Orlando, sold April 29, for $1.53 million. Built in 2016, it has five bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths and 4,039 square feet of living area.

Days on market: Seven.

The home at 10770 Royal Cypress Way, Orlando, sold April 29, for $950,000. Built in 2015, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 3,093 square feet of living area. Days on market: Eight.

WILLOWS AT LAKE RHEA

The home at 11318 Willow Gardens Drive, Windermere, sold April 29, for $885,000. Built in 1995, it has four bedrooms, three baths, two half-baths and 2,702 square feet of living area. Days on market: Three.

ISLEWORTH

The home at 5404 Monterrey Club Court, Windermere, sold April 29, for $2,790,000. Built in 1990, it has four bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths and 4,191 square feet of living area. Days on market: 32.

WINTER GARDEN

KEENE’S POINTE

RESERVE AT CYPRESS POINT

The home at 10799 Royal Cypress Way, Orlando, sold April 25, for $1,075,000. Built in 2016, it has four bedrooms, four baths and 2,991 square feet of living area. Days on market: Two.

WINDERMERE

BELLE MEADE

The home at 6803 Valhalla Way, Windermere, sold April 25, for $1,325,000. Built in 2003, it has five bedrooms, five-and-one-half baths and 5,511 square feet of living area.

Days on market: 199.

The home at 15117 Serenade Drive, Winter Garden, sold April 29, for $651,000. Built in 2009, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,000 square feet of living area. Days on market: One.

RESERVE AT BELMERE

COVINGTON PARK

The home at 1566 Lake Rhea Drive, Windermere, sold April 26, for $1.4 million. Built in 2005, it has four bedrooms, four baths and 4,994 square feet of living area. Days on market: 16.

The home at 945 Meadow Glade Drive, Winter Garden, sold April 28, for $485,000. Built in 2008, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,949 square feet of living area. Days on market: Three.

The home at 932 Lost Grove Circle, Winter Garden, sold April 27, for $630,000. Built in 2007, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,880 square feet of living area.

Days on market: Four.

LAKEVIEW PRESERVE

The home at 4535 Gliding Wave St., Winter Garden, sold April 26, for $659,245. Built in 2021, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 2,894 square feet of living area. Days on market: 90.

ORCHARD

The townhouse at 284 Winter Nellis Circle, Winter Garden, sold April 28, for $385,000. Built in 2007, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,699 square feet of living area. Days on market: Two. SHADOW LAWN

The home at 234 Florida Ave., Winter Garden, sold April 25, for $318,000. Built in 1939, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,610 square feet of living area. Days on market: 10.

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THURSDAY,MAY 5, 2022

11

SUNSET LAKES

The home at 13584 Sunset Lakes Circle, Winter Garden, sold April 25, for $1,570,000. Built in 1998, it has five bedrooms, four baths and 2,860 square feet of living area. Days on market: Four.

TOWNHOMES OF WINTER GARDEN

The condo at 399 Douglas Way, No. 63, Winter Garden, sold April 28, for $250,000. Built in 1988, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 930 square feet of living area. Days on market: Two. TRADITIONS

The home at 206 Faulkner St., Winter Garden, sold April 29, for $567,000. Built in 2001, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,594 square feet of living area. Days on market: Three.

TUCKER OAKS

The condo at 15318 Oak Apple Court, No. 141, Winter Garden, sold April 27, for $265,000. Built in 2008, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,216 square feet of living area. Days on market: Three.

VALENCIA SHORES

The home at 212 Valencia Court, Winter Garden, sold April 26, for $460,000. Built in 1973, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,917 square feet of living area. Days on market: Four.

WATERMARK

The home at 14770 Seton Creek Blvd., Winter Garden, sold April 29, for $710,000. Built in 2018, it has five bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 3,427 square feet of living area. Days on market: 13.

WATERSIDE

The home at 1485 Viscaya Cove Blvd., Winter Garden, sold April 26, for $484,595. Built in 2022, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 2,502 square feet of living area. Days on market: 37.

r a e Y w e N ve it’s Time to $a RESERVE AT WATERFORD POINTE

CROWN POINT SPRINGS

The home at 2038 Water Key Drive, Windermere, sold April 29, for $1.1 million. Built in 2000, it has five bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths and 3,774 square feet of living area.

Days on market: 75.

The home at 1046 Depot Court, Winter Garden, sold April 29, for $475,000. Built in 1994, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,712 square feet of living area. Days on market: Two.

Fall is coming

SAWYER SHORES

The home at 6628 Lagoon St., Windermere, sold April 29, for $600,000. Built in 2000, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,035 square feet of living area.

STONEYBROOK WEST

The home at 13224 Fox Glove St., Winter Garden, sold April 29, for $488,800. Built in 2005, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,535 square feet of living area. Days on market: Five.

The home at 1441 Roxy Lane, Winter Garden, sold April 28, for $438,935.

Built in 2021, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,023 square feet of living area. Days on market: 32.

SAVINGS! F a ll is coming OFF

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THESE DEALS!

WEST ORANGE GLENMUIR

The home at 10969 Ledgement Lane, Windermere, sold April 28, for $735,000. Built in 2003, it has four bedrooms, three baths, two halfbaths and 3,592 square feet of living area. Days on market: Two. TILDENS GROVE

The home at 12831 Jacob Grace Court, Windermere, sold April 29, for $1,282,500. Built in 2004, it has five bedrooms, five baths and 4,000 square feet of living area. Days on market: 10.

WEST ORANGE

The home at 12730 S. Lake Sawyer Lane, Windermere, sold April 28, for $1,450,000. Built in 2005, it has five bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths and 4,410 square feet of living area.

Days on market: 14.

SILVER WOODS

The home at 4818 Palm Tree Court, Windermere, sold April 25, for $450,000. Built in 1985, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,489 square feet of living area. Days on market: Seven.

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SUNSET BAY

The home at 5035 Down Point Lane, Windermere, sold April 25, for $1,850,000. Built in 1989, it has five bedrooms, three baths, two halfbaths and 4,551 square feet of living area. Days on market: 17.

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The home at 109 E. 12th Ave., Windermere, sold April 29, for $760,000. Built in 1989, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 2,587 square feet of living area.

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OBSERVER

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OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2022

Oakland Nature Preserve 2022 uncorks Bubbly on the Boardwalk

David and Maureen Jackson enjoyed their date night at the ONP.

Brandon and Betsy Leis lounged on deck chairs as they enjoyed their food and wine.

Mona Shestak enjoyed a crisp glass of white wine.

Zoe Schmidli and Tamar Dundas journeyed to the edge of the dock to watch the sun set.

Above: Gloria Green and Linda Caimano offered warm greetings as they helped to check in guests.

Right: Beth Guston and Tracy Lewandowski used their binoculars to search for wildlife.

T

he Oakland Nature Preserve hosted its 2022 Bubbly on the Boardwalk Friday, April 22. Attendees strolled through the preserve on a 2/3-mile walk along the Healthy West Orange Boardwalk to Lake Apopka. On the way to the Lake Pavilion locals enjoyed the naturalistic wonders in full bloom for Earth Day. In addition to the plethora of plants, trees and wetlands, attendees were thrilled at the spotting of a baby alligator near the dock, enjoying the last rays of the sun before it set. As the celebration continued, nature lovers enjoyed small desserts, a variety of wine choices and, of course, bubbly.

— ANNABELLE SIKES

ONLINE

Jimmy Chiefari sipped on his cool drink as he took some time to relax.

See more photos at OrangeObserver.com

CITY OF

EN D R A G R WINTE IS HIRING

This annual guide will provide important information about the West Orange communities of Winter Garden, Oakland, Ocoee, Windermere, Gotha, Dr. Phillips and Horizon West, including the history, area maps, hospitals, utility companies and local leaders.

• A roundup of recreation: sports, kids’ activities and civic groups.

• Places to visit and favorite restaurants the locals really like.

• A complete listing of public, private and charter schools, and what makes every school unique.

Reserve your advertisement by: Wednesday, June 2

380957-1

Call your advertising executive today: 407-656-2121 or advertise@orangeobserver.com

As our community continues to grow and thrive, the City of Winter Garden is seeking qualified individuals that exemplify the “Winter Garden Way” of providing top-notch service that residents expect, deserve, and appreciate. We are seeking both experienced and entry-level candidates with a motivated mindset and a can-do attitude to find creative solutions, while always putting the citizens first.

Explore the job opportunities and the impressive benefit package at www.cwgdn.com. Click on Jobs at bottom of home page for a list of jobs and to apply on-line.

Applications may also be completed at: Winter Garden City Hall 300 West Plant Street Winter Garden, FL 34787 Attn: Human Resources

SCAN HERE to see our current openings and start your application.

381466-1

The Local Motion magazine will help new as well as longtime residents easily connect to local businesses, community resources and learn more about their hometown.

OrangeObserver.com

OBSERVER

|

THURSDAY,MAY 5, 2022

13

Kenzie Reier, 10, loved trying out all the carnival games.

Payton Powers, 9, loved riding all the rides with her friends.

Lake Whitney students unwind at Spring Carnival

L

ake Whitney Elementary School students and families enjoyed perfect weather, a plethora of rides and some sweet treats at the school’s Spring Carnival Friday, April 22. Attendees enjoyed taking a spin on a variety of rides, trying their luck at some carnival-style games and noshing on cotton candy or other treats.

— MICHAEL ENG

Melissa Phillips, 5, was all smiles as she took a ride atop a pony.

Brennan Kehrer, 7, was a fierce competitor in the tricycle race.

Above: Jaya Outar, 9, sat still while an artist painted a beautiful butterfly on her face.

Above: Naomi Vincecrue, 11, braved the rock-climbing wall.

Left: West Orange High School student Elias Tawil found himself in a sticky situation as a volunteer at the cotton candy machine.

Right: Sophia Irish, 9, waved to friends as she took a spin on this ride.

72 Annual Memorial Day Celebration nd

WOODLAWN MEMORIAL PARK CEREMONY

Monday, May 30 10AM

In front of the Christ Mosaic at Woodlawn 400 Woodlawn Cemetery Rd, Gotha

MEMORIAL Memorial Day Is OnlyDAY OnceISA ONLY Year

ONCE A YEAR

but our gratitude is endless.

381350-1

but our gratitude is endless

14

OBSERVER

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OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2022

BAPTIST

First Baptist Church Pastor Tim Grosshans 125 E. Plant St, Winter Garden (407) 656-2352 Sundays: 8:30 AM Traditional 9:45 AM Bible Study 11 AM Contemporary Wednesdays: 6 PM Awana 2nd Campus: First Baptists Church @ Horizon West 15304 Tilden Road, Winter Garden Sundays: 9:45 AM All Ages www.FBCWG.org

CHURCH OF GOD

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

EPISCOPAL

Church of the Messiah 241 N. Main St., Winter Garden Services: 8, 9:30, & 11 AM, 4 PM (French & Creole), 7 PM www.ChurchoftheMessiah.com

METHODIST

First United Methodist www.fumcwg.org 125 N. Lakeview Ave., Winter Garden (407) 656-1135 Services: 9 AM Contemporary 11:15 AM Traditional Also viewable on YouTube METHODIST NON-DENOMINATIONAL

During the last song, ‘Hear My Song,’ the entire cast gathered together at the middle of the stage.

Loud and clear CHURCH DIRECTORY

www.starkelakebaptist.org

Victory Baptist Church CHURCH OF GOD OCOEE CHURCH OF GOD & Christian Academy BAPTIST Pastor Thomas Odom 1601 A.D. Mims Rd,Ocoee 1105 N. Lakewood Avenue, Ocoee BEULAH BAPTIST 407-656-8011 astor Casey Butner (407) 656-3097 71 Beulah Rd, Winter Garden Sunday: 11 EPISCOPAL AM & 6 PM 07-656-3342 | BeulahBaptistWG.org CHURCH OF THE MESSIAH UNDAY BIBLE STUDY 9:30AM Wednesday: 7 PM 241 N. Main, Winter Garden UNDAY SERVICE 11:00AM www.VBCOCOEE.com Services: 8, 9:30, & 11am, 7pm WEDNESDAY SERVICE 6:00PM

IRST BAPTIST CHURCH 25 E Plant St., Winter Garden 07-656-2352 UNDAYS 8:30 am Traditional :45 am Bible Study 1:00 am Contemporary WEDNESDAYS - 6pm - Awana astor Tim Grosshans www.fbcwg.org nd Campus: OUNDATION WORSHIP UNDAYS 9:45 am - All Ages oundation Academy High School 5304 Tilden Rd., Winter Garden www.FoundationWorship.com 07-730-1867

www.churchofthemessiah.com

PURPOSE CHURCH OLANDO 13640 W. Colonial Dr., Ste 110, Winter Garden 407-654-9661 • Prayer 9:30AM, Fellowship 9:45AM, Service 10:05 AM

NON-DENOMINATIONAL

Purpose Church Orlando 13640 W Colonial Dr. Ste 110, Winter Garden UNITED CHURCH OF (407) 654-9661 CHRIST SundayUNION Service: WINDERMERE CHURCH 10:05 AM 10710 Park Ridge-Gotha Rd. Sunday Brazilian Service: 7 PM Windermere, FL 34786 407-876-2112 WorshipService: times: Saturday 6 PM 9:00am Adult Sunday School www.purposechurchorlando.org 10:00am Worship www.windermereunion.org

MIKE YOAKUM PASTOR

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1333 EAST CROWN POINT RD. OCOEE, FL 34761

LV14252

146 East Plant St, Winter Garden UNDAY SERVICE 10:00 AM nd us at: Theacf.net

FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 125 N. Lakeview Ave Winter Garden Service Times 9:00 AM and 11:15 AM Phone – 407-656-1135 Web: fumcwg.org

O

Advertise your Services or Events coee High School on this page weekly. thespians took the

stage to present the This page weekly in the musical “Songs For Aappears New West Orange & Observer and World” Thursday, April Times 28, at Saturday OrangeObserver.com.

Friday, Aprilonline 29, and April 30.

To advertise the Church Directory “The musical talks in about call 407-656-2121 life, how sometimes we make or email AdvertiseNow@OrangeObserver.com decisions that we think we want and then realize we are not were we want to be,” Technical Director Jeff Cook said. “It’s about going fullcircle.”

The entire musical had a cast of only five people; Karina Guerra, Stephanie Ocoee High senior Michael Lim will be pursuing a career as Buttenbender, Alan Crisp, a lawyer after graduating high school.

Michael Lim and Christian Simmons.

“It’s about one moment,” Music Director Samuel Carlton said. “Just when you think you have nothing to fear, when you are on the verge of success, the wind starts to blow, a journey comes to an end, and you find yourself in a new world.”

316889-1

Starke Lake Baptist Church Pastor Jeff Pritchard PO Box 520 611 W Ave., STARKE LAKE BAPTIST ANGLICANOcoee CHURCH ANGLICAN COMMUNITY PO Box 520, 611 W Ave, Ocoee ELLOWSHIP (407) CHURCH 656-2351 Pastor Jeff Pritchard ector The Rev. Canon Tim Trombitas www.StarkeLakeBaptist.org (407) 656-2351

Matthew’s Hope Chest Creations

ORDER YOUR — ANDREA MUJICA CUSTOM MADE • Custom Furniture, Farm Tables, For those ready to take advantage of our Moving Forward Program, Barn Doors, and More CHRISTMAS the following is a partial list of assistance available through our Program.

• Repaired, Refinished and Right: Senior Karina Guerra is GIFTS NOW! Repurposed Wood Furniture looking forward to pursuing a Check out the custom • Gently Used Furniture and Newcareer & Used Moving Forward in theater education after made silent auction items Household Items graduating high school.

Program Offerings Follow us at https://www.facebook.com/groups/MatthewsHopeChest/ that will be available at

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the Garden Party onTransitional Visit our Workshop Location at 611 Business Park Blvd. #101, Winter Garden Housing November 9!!

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This is a secure site for giving Garden, FL 34787 Help Us. Help Them. 611 Business Park Blvd #101, Winter (407) 905-9500 I MatthewsHopeMinistries.org Help Themselves.

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

WANT TO SEE YOUR LISTING HERE?

Above: This was Christian Simmons’ first time performing at a musical of this level.

Right: Junior Alan Crisp had previously made his stage debut as Olive’s dad in Ocoee’s production of ‘The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee.’

TEXT

“MHM” TO 4 1 4 4 4 TO DONATE

This is a secure site for giving

CALL (407) 656-2121 Help Us. Help Them. 611 Business Park Blvd #101, Winter Garden, FL 34787 or email AdvertiseNow@orangeobserver.com

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OrangeObserver.com

OBSERVER

|

THURSDAY,MAY 5, 2022

15

BLAIR M. JOHNSON Attorney at Law

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Windermere students loved testing their skills at a variety of games.

Windermere Elementary Spring Carnival a home run W indermere Elementary School hosted its annual spring carnival Saturday, April 23. The event featured bounce houses, inflatable slides, a rock-climbing wall, live music by DJ Greg, carnival games and food, including some shaved ice and barbecue. Kids also had the choice to get their face painted, play some “Simon Says,” and wander around the playground, and the students could get their nails done, as well.

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Daniela Salcedo, 8, enjoyed the carnival doing bridges.

Above: Brooks Immerfall, 7, worked hard to make his own spin art.

Right: Kinsley Benish, 7, enjoyed the games.

596 Ocoee Commerce Pkwy, Ocoee, FL 34761-4219

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Authorizations and Referrals can be faxed to (407) 654-4956

CITY OF OCOEE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER THE 429 BUSINESS PARK CENTER PHASE II SMALL SCALE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN FUTURE LAND USE MAP AMENDMENT FROM LOW-DENSITY RESIDENTIAL (LDR) TO LIGHT INDUSTRIAL (LI) CASE NUMBER: CPA-2022-002 NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, pursuant to Article I, Sections 1-8, 1-9, 1-10, and Article V, Section 5-9, of the City of Ocoee Land Development Code that on TUESDAY, MAY 3, 2022, and on TUESDAY, MAY 17, 2022, AT 6:15 P.M. or as soon thereafter as practical, the OCOEE CITY COMMISSION will hold PUBLIC HEARINGS at the City of Ocoee Commission Chambers located at 150 North Lakeshore Drive, Ocoee, Florida, to consider the following Ordinance:

‘Simon Says’ always is a popular game at these events.

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF OCOEE, FLORIDA, AMENDING THE CITY OF OCOEE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AS ADOPTED IN 1991, AS AMENDED; AMENDING THE FUTURE LAND USE MAP OF THE OCOEE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN TO CHANGE THE FUTURE LAND USE MAP DESIGNATION FROM LOW-DENSITY RESIDENTIAL (LDR) TO LIGHT INDUSTRIAL (LI) FOR CERTAIN REAL PROPERTIES CONTAINING APPROXIMATELY 5.87 ACRES LOCATED ON THE EAST SIDE OF PINE STREET BEGINNING APPROXIMATELY 462 FEET NORTH OF PALM DRIVE AT 701, 707, AND 711 PINE STREET; PROVIDING FOR AND AUTHORIZING THE REVISION OF THE OFFICIAL CITY FUTURE LAND USE MAP; REPEALING CONFLICTING ORDINANCES; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.

Rebecca Berenguer, 5, sat still while she had a rainbow painted.

ONLINE

Ana Zekirovski, 10, cooled off with a colorful shaved ice.

See more photos at OrangeObserver.com

Interested parties may appear at the public hearing and be heard with respect to the proposed action. The complete case file, including a complete legal description by metes and bounds, may be inspected at the Ocoee Planning Department located at 150 North Lakeshore Drive, Ocoee, Florida, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, except legal holidays. The Ocoee City Commission may continue the public hearing to other dates and times, as it deems necessary. Any interested party shall be advised of the dates, times, and places of any continuation of these or continued public hearings shall be announced during the hearing and no further notices regarding these matters will be published. You are advised that any person who desires to appeal any decision made at the public hearings will need a record of the proceedings and for this purpose may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made which includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is based. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, persons needing a special accommodation or an interpreter to participate in this proceeding should contact the City Clerk’s Office 48 hours in advance of the meeting at (407) 905-3105. Clerk’s Office 48 hours in advance of the meeting at (407) 905-3105.

380569-1

The applicant is requesting a Small Scale Comprehensive Plan Future Land Use Map Amendment from Low-Density Residential (LDR) to Light Industrial (LI) to allow for the construction of light industrial and flex warehouse space.

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OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2022

379095-1

INFLUENCER OF THE WEEK

OBSERVER

CHAD RYAN, HORIZON WEST MIDDLE Chad Ryan is the ESOL compliance specialist and boys basketball coach at Horizon West Middle School. This past season was HWMS’ second basketball season, and the team had a tremendous season, going 10-1 and winning the Orange County championship. Ryan was named Jr. NBA Coach of the Year by the Orlando Magic and said it was all made possible because he has amazing students and an amazing assistant by his side.

What brought you to your school?

Horizon West Middle School opened its doors in 2019. I was working at Dillard Street Elementary at the time, and my principal, (Michelle) Thomas, was named the new principal of Horizon West Middle. I was fortunate enough to be asked to come to the new school with her as ESOL compliance specialist and boys basketball coach. I was excited about the opportunity to get back into the middle-school setting, where I have spent most of my career.

What do you love most about your school?

I love the students at Horizon West Middle. As ESOL compliance specialist, I get to meet so many amazing students and families that are most likely just moving to the area, and the opportunity to assist with their transition is extremely rewarding. The faculty and staff are extremely talented and always willing to go the extra mile for all of our students.

What is your motivation?

Seeing our students and school succeed academically and athletically. I take the “good of the whole” approach (with) my school family.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

Seeing the students and athletes grow, learn and succeed throughout the year.

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What do you like to do in your spare time?

I enjoy family, friends, cooking, exercising, beaches, concerts and watching sports.

Who was your favorite teacher when you were in school? Why? My favorite teacher growing up was my PE teacher, Mrs. Dale. She is the primary reason I got into education. She was caring, firm, interested in her students succeeding inside and outside of school, and always pushed her students to be their best. I wanted to be that person for kids as an educator. That is what motivates me every day.

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

Why? When I was a child, I wanted to be a meteorologist first. I have always been fascinated with weather. My second choice was a teacher and coach and, with that, I found my calling.

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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,MAY 5, 2022

OBSERVER SCHOOL ZONE FROM OPPOSITE PAGE

What are your hobbies?

Being active with friends, cooking, and attending sporting events and concerts.

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

The ability to fly. If I could fly, I could get around this Central Florida traffic with ease!

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

Elton John, Fleetwood Mac and The Weeknd. I am a huge Elton John fanatic; I have collected all 30-plus albums and tons of paraphernalia and have attended eight or nine of his concerts. All the rest are super talented, if not legendary.

What was your go-to lunch as an elementary student?

Any favorite snacks or special treats you remember?

My favorite lunch was mac-ncheese. My favorite snack was Cheez-Its! What is your favorite holiday?

Christmas. I have always loved Christmas decorations, food and being with family.

Who was your best friend when you were in school and why?

Are you still in touch?

Travis Duffy was my best friend in high school. We have many common interests, and, yes, we are still in touch. After all these years, you know it’s a good friend.

What were your extracurricular activities as a student?

I played basketball and baseball in high school. I wasn’t super talented as a player, but I worked hard, did my best and loved the camaraderie of a team.

— AMY QUESINBERRY

GREEN TEAM Sunset Park Elementary wins hydroponics STEM lab.

AMY QUESINBERRY COMMUNITY EDITOR

Sunset Park Elementary students have been learning about recycling and saving the environment — and those efforts have won the school a deepwater culture hydroponics STEM lab from Green Our Planet to continue their environmental efforts.

The Eco-Eagles Club is one of four winners the Orange County Public Schools district has named a Sustainability Champion.

The school will receive hydroponics STEM lab equipment in the fall that will be set up in an empty classroom, where teachers can take their students for lessons on indoor growing. Each grade level will be given three lesson plans.

Jacqueline Hool has led the Student

Council since the school opened in 2007, and every year she gets the third- through fifth-grade students engaged in a project.

She explained in her OCPS application what they have done: “We would organize service-learning projects and encourage school spirit regularly. While we’ve worked with Eco Sneakers to collect tennis shoes to recycle for playgrounds, it was not until 2017 (that we began) ‘Recycling Fridays,’ where our Student Council members collected recycling from every office and classroom and took to the recycling dumpster. In addition, we created a garden here at the school.”

The school garden took a hit during COVID-19 when students and staff weren’t there to keep it weeded and watered.

“This was the year to bring it back,” Hool said. “I’m trying to get classrooms to come visit the garden in early morning and late afternoon

to water. We have cherry tomatoes, we have zucchini, we have beans, and we have full-on flower beds to make it colorful.”

There are five garden beds plus two rain barrels.

Sunset Park won $200 for its startup efforts and is getting a picnic table as well as some gardening tools.

“It’s kind of an oasis for the kids to just be out there while it’s not too hot,” Hool said. “They can do a book read out there … or just be in the garden.”

In addition to the garden being a space for teaching moments and hands-on experience, the school’s teachers are excited at the possibility of enjoying lunch, recess and outdoor learning there.

Hool and media specialist Brittany Geib recently started the Eco-Eagles Club to continue with recycling, garden rehabilitation and other recycling projects they have planned.

Students have been learning which items are recyclable — plastic

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Eco-Eagles Club leaders Jacqueline Hool, standing at left, Brittany Geib, Maureen Earle and Kristen Lee, tend the garden with several club members, Thomas Noe, Preston Stocks, Leilani Machin, Isabella Triska, Anjelica Haddix, James Noe, Mariana Socorro, Isabelle Basora and Josephine Dubiel.

Amy Quesinberry

bottles and jugs, paper, cardboard and paperboard, metal food and beverage cans, and glass bottles and jars — and every Friday they take these items to the dumpster. The district’s Environmental Compliance & Sustainability department has provided recycling bins and posters for classrooms and hallways.

“Our kindergartners through second-graders are especially excited to be a part of the program, as this is all new to them,” Hool said in her application.

She is working on monthly recycling projects and fundraisers to encourage the school to participate. The first Eco-Eagles project was a recycling drive for clothes and shoes. Funds from that fundraiser will be used to expand the garden.

Sunset Park also plans to seek other grant opportunities and is applying for the Green Schools Recognition Program, which can earn the school thousands of dollars.

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OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2022

THESE OLD TIMES

FROM THE WINTER GARDEN HERITAGE FOUNDATION

THROWBACK THURSDAY MAY 3, 1973 Ellis Inc. operated in downtown Winter Garden for decades and was a convenient place to go for all your appliance needs.

In a springtime edition of The Winter Garden Times, owner Bob Ellis advertised Eureka vacuums for sale — “just in time for Mother’s Day!” The Eureka Dial-a-Nap was an upright vacuum with a dial that switched the brush from normal carpet height to high, patio or shag. Another option was the Custom Deluxe 2 1/3 Peak HP Cleaner with the new Roto-Matic motorized deep-cleaning attachment for carpets that was billed as “a real carpet saver!”

85 years ago

The annual experience luncheon of the Ladies Aid of Windermere was held at the clubhouse.

Members were given dollars and told how they earned them — their “experience” giving the affair its name. Mrs. Frank Madsen was toastmistress.

Herbert Peacock, of Ocoee, broke his arm on the school grounds while playing. His brother ran into him.

80 years ago

The nation’s first rationing of food by stamps was set to begin May 5 with the first stamp good for purchase of one pound of sugar during the period of May 5 through May 16.

The Winter Garden Welfare League sponsored a cut-flower sale and azalea plant sale on the Saturday prior to Mother’s Day.

70 years ago

50 years ago

A major expansion program was set to begin in the summer at the West Orange Memorial Hospital in Winter Garden. Phase I was to be a new three-story structure in what was the employee parking lot. In addition to many new beds,

FROM THE ARCHIVES This 1958 photograph features a group of instructors celebrating May Day at the Holden School in Orlando: Edna Jones, left, chairman; Ruby Lee, co-chair (and long-time Winter Garden Heritage Foundation volunteer); and W.V. Nixon, principal. May Day is traditionally celebrated in Western countries on the first day of May to welcome spring and the resurrection of nature after the long winter months. It is normally marked with dancing around a Maypole decorated with ribbons and flowers, and festivals often include the crowning of a May king or queen.

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.

the added space was to include a larger admitting office, new lab, X-ray pharmacy and new physical therapy setup. The building was to be built with the option to add a fourth floor.

45 years ago

Notice to residents: “Anyone interested in being considered for the position of city clerk in Winter Garden should contact Mayor Raymond Spears or commis-

sioners Ralph Fulford, Lee Jones, David Harris or Julian Revels before Thursday night’s commission meeting.”

30 years ago

Orlando Fights Back, the antidrug group that helped make Ivy Lane and Tangelo Park better communities, moved into Bay Pointe Apartments on Horizon Street to start its fight in Winter Garden.

Jimmy Pitchford, popular Winter Garden businessman and owner of Jimmy’s Thriftway, underwent surgery on his right knee and was making good recovery at home.

20 years ago

The Beech Center Aquatic Complex, Ocoee’s municipal pool, officially opened for its first full warm-weather season.

crossword

celebrity cipher

PUTTING MONEY DOWN by Hanh Huynh. Edited by David Steinberg class just for kicks?

122 Weasel with a winter coat 125 Crane game part in “Toy Story” 126 Obtained 127 Breezes along 128 Cruel ones 129 Waiting like a caller 130 Computer pros

DOWN

©2022 Universal Uclick

ACROSS

31 High schooler, usually 32 Arguing 1 Old Greek marketplace 34 Malek of “Bohemian 6 Sporty Mazdas Rhapsody” 12 Things moved upon 38 Meetup with a match graduation from an app 19 Like a goat’s hoof 42 Assist 20 Give in 44 Fake name 21 Get comfortable with 46 Palindromic stories 22 Voting rights activist 47 Seattle rock genre Stacey 49 Bill Withers hit with the 23 Budget car words “When you’re not 24 Cord for an ID card strong” 25 With parts of 2-Down 51 CPR expert and 46-Across, odorless 52 Bit of fluid for a canal? home hazard 54 Noted Apache leader 26 More bleached 55 Boats like Noah’s 28 With parts of 14-Down and 54-Across, Star Wars or 57 From Japan’s thirdlargest city James Bond 30 Ambient musician Brian 59 Inlets that anagram to

“sari” 60 Clear a path 64 With parts of 48-Down and 83-Across, falls off a surfboard 65 Plunders 67 Quarantines 69 Vietnamese New Year 71 It’s pressed once or twice 76 Broadcast again 78 ___ Lanka 80 Elemental variant 81 Papa’s partner, perhaps 83 Bean ___ (stir-fry veggie) 85 Set with a sharp image 86 Figure in a will 89 Portuguese dessert wine 92 With parts of 73-Down and 102-Across, hot pepper

93 “You can’t be serious!”

95 Steamy rooms 96 NBA legend Shaquille 99 “I love you,” in Peru 100 Aptly named runner Usain 102 Woman from France’s capital 104 With parts of 61-Down and 125-Across, Islamic code 105 Tidy 107 Biblical garden 108 www.cdc.___ 109 Needs nothing more 112 French tower name 115 Speak with crossed fingers 116 Sicilian cooking wine 120 One who may have a

1 Neighbor of Greece 2 “Wall Street” character who thought greed was good 3 Eggs 4 Sleep stage initials 5 Respond 6 Tomato-based pasta sauce 7 “SVU” actor 8 Adolescent skin concern 9 Aquarium fish 10 Tooth care org.

11 Only you can take one 12 Like a giraffe 13 Actor Driver 14 California birthplace of the United Nations 15 Double agent, e.g.

16 JFK landing stat 17 Paper size (Abbr.)

18 Nursery grass 19 ^ marks 27 Word before “fund” or “maze” 29 “___ be all right” 31 Exam 33 Official permission 35 “Welcome to Maui!”

36 Short skirts 37 Alpo competitor 39 Young woman, in old literature 40 Legal thriller writer Scott whose surname rhymes with “Thoreau” 41 Breaks up 43 Muscle above an ab 45 “Understand?”

48 Purple fizzy drink

50 Main arteries 53 Friend 55 French 53-Down 56 Dorm monitors, for short 58 Dissenting votes 61 Monuments honoring soldiers 62 Order to relax 63 Assenting vote 66 Maker of Aurora Berryalis nail polish 68 Possible sib for a bro 70 Align 72 Gas found in “more than enough” 73 Bowler’s movement to “steer” the ball, say 74 Appropriate 75 Show off before a drag race 77 Spinning speed stat 79 Rocker Turner’s memoir 81 Book after Jonah 82 Nice smell 84 Certain Jamaican believer 86 Sombrero or beret 87 Fleecy females 88 Bawl 90 Exciting discovery 91 Onstage whisper 92 Parking meter insert 94 Zero 97 Blesses with oil 98 Banks’ safety features?

101 “Time to head out!”

103 Choose 106 Six minutes, for an hour 110 Narrow strip of wood 111 Tools that might buzz 113 Analogy words 114 Sense instinctively 116 Fuji and Kilimanjaro (Abbr.)

117 “Eureka!”

118 Tomato’s color 119 ___-fi 121 Long time 123 Caviar source 124 Computer choice

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

Each letter in the cipher stands for another.

“UKKJKRZC UPZ CPKERYJUYT MSUG U NJW MUIK JP TG SJVC. J WCK CLHJKCZ UNFRK KEC KEJPWY KEUK JPYMJIC TC.” – ZOUGPC XFEPYFP

“UHAY JPVYO DC CXDKJOXU EDKKPY OJVM OJP VTPYVKP JAWVM JPVYO, EAO OJVO’C EPBVACP UHA’YP V OPVBJPY.” – VVYHM EVBVXX

“XKF ZBIF JRUX RLTMX LFBZY R JFPPBDBPX BP XKRX ETM RUF ITZPXRZXSE LFBZY FBXKFU JUTOFZ UBYKX TU JSFRPRZXSE PMUJUBPFC.” – YFTUYF GBSS © 2022 NEA, Inc.

Puzzle Three Clue: D equals M

Delegates and alternates of the Lions Club to the State Convention at Daytona Beach were Francis Loomis, Clyde Marden, Bobby Lyons, Doug Braswell, Herman Dreischerf, Ben Shuman, Red Ison, Paul Smith, Joe Valdes and Major Womack.

The kindergarten sponsored by the First Methodist church presented the first graduation at the church. The graduates were Lee Farnsworth, Sue Ann Starr, George Teel, Nora Sue Payne, Dickie Wiedenbeck, Candace Mann, Bruce Rowley, Judy Ezzard, Grover Ford, Jan Barrow, Julie Brantley and Ann Deariso. Susie Kannon and Mrs. A.E. Cowart were the teachers.

Puzzle Two Clue: V equals T

W EST O RANG E HISTO RY

OBSERVER

Puzzle One Clue: L equals X

18

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

©2022 Andrews McMeel Syndicate

5-5-22

MAY 5, 2022

SPORTS HIGH

Windermere Prep junior Jackson Bennett recently was named a U.S. Lacrosse All-Academic Player. Page 20.

1

5

Olympia High School will host a physical and ECG night from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, May 5, in the school’s gymnasium. Costs are $25 for the physical and $20 for the ECG.

2

Horizon High School will host its first Horizon Youth Summer Baseball Camp from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. June 6 to 9 at the school, 10393 Seidel Road, Winter Garden. All kids ages 7 to 14 are welcome to participate.

Cost is $100. To register, visit bit.ly/3w30s5w. Also, the school’s lacrosse coaches will host a Girls Youth lacrosse Camp from 8 to 11:30 a.m.

June 20 to 22 for students in second through eighth grades. Cost is $100. To register, visit bit.ly/3ORzpTn.

GLOBAL

GAME

3

Legacy High School’s baseball team defeated Orlando Christian Prep Thursday, April 28, 12-2. The Eagles advanced to the FHSAA Class 2A, District 6 semifinals that took place Wednesday, May 4, after press time.

The team played the winner of the game between Central Florida Christian Academy and Trinity Christian Academy that took place Tuesday, May 3, after press time. Horizon High School baseball team faced Lake Buena Vista High May 2 in the Class 4A, District 11 quarterfinal. The winner of that game faced McKeel Academy May 3 after press time, at the district semifinal.

4

Windermere High will host cheerleading tryouts May 11 and 12.

Rising sophomores, juniors and seniors will be able to try out from 3 to 5 p.m. and rising freshmen from 4 to 6 p.m. On Thursday, May 5, the school will release the tryout material information at windermereathletics.com. Those interested in trying out must submit their physicals and athletic clearance by May 7.

5

Ocoee High School’s athletic department will host a golf tournament at 8 a.m. Friday, June 10, at Forest Lake Golf Club, 10521 Clarcona Ocoee Road, Ocoee.

Cost is $80 for a single golfer and $300 for a foursome. To register, visit bit.ly/3vBx6wi.

For more, contact Bill Alderman, (407) 283-7820.

Sebastian Fernandez continues to train twice daily — by himself and with his team.

Andrea Mujica

Local soccer star Sebastian Fernandez takes game to Levante UD team. indermere resident and former Horizon High student Sebastian Fernandez spent three months at the end of last year playing with the Levante UD team in Valencia, Spain, at the U-16 level, known in Spain as Cadete A. “The decision was spontaneous,” he said of playing overseas. “I feel like every kid in America would love the opportunity to go play in Europe.

So, it was a no-brainer for me; it was just a matter of getting the option (to do it).”

Like so many, the chance to play overseas was a dream come true — and the next step in a journey that has lasted most of Fernandez’s life.

Deportivo Lara team.

Then in 2014, his family moved to the United States. Fernandez was 8.

“The first thing we did was search the area to find a soccer school to enroll him in,” Figueroa said.

He started playing at Orlando Star in Kissimmee and played there for about three years. He transferred to Orlando City, but because it was a really far drive back and forth, his parents moved him to the All Star Soccer Academy in Dr. Phillips.

“We always saw he became better and wanted to take another step,” Figueroa said.

In 2017, Fernandez started to play for Florida Rush Soccer, for whom he played until he earned his spot with Levante UD. In 2019 and 2020, he participated in the Disney ESPN Laliga.

LIFELONG PURSUIT

THE ROAD TO VALENCIA

ANDREA MUJICA STAFF WRITER

W

Born in Venezuela, Fernandez has been playing soccer since he could walk. His mother, Dayana Figueroa, said when he was 1, she tried to give him books but he just put those aside in favor of his soccer ball.

He also loved watching his dad play.

He began to play at the Club Italo in Barquisimeto — Venezuela, at age 3. He took his play to the national competitive level at age 6 with the

Fernandez’s uncle, Andy Fernandez, lives in Valencia. He showed a highlight video of Fernandez playing soccer to his neighbor, Daniel Infante, the agent who put Fernandez’s father, Julio, and one of the team’s coaches, Alvaro Del Moral, in touch.

“They discussed whether I could come to trials for two weeks,” Fernandez said. “And I ended up going

Courtesy photo

Sebastian Fernandez and his family are contemplating options that would allow him to return to Europe.

SEE PLAYING PAGE 20

RECRUITMENT & COMMITMENT: How local athletes are navigating college athletics The ‘business’ of college sports is changing opportunities available for high school athletes.

ANDREA MUJICA STAFF WRITER

Andrea Mujica

Windermere senior Gustavo Mendez recently signed with Chipola College to pursue playing baseball at the junior college level.

It is likely that, even if you don’t play high school sports, you’ve heard the words “recruitment” and “commitment” in relation to student-athletes.

According to the National Collegiate Athletic Association, out

of nearly eight million students who play sports in high school, a little more than 480,000 will move on to play at the collegiate level. Of those, only 2% will receive some form of athletic scholarship to compete in college.

“I tell my kids, you’ve got to love your school,” said Brad Lord, Foundation Academy football operations and athletic collegiate placement director. “To get the sport, you’ve got to love your school, because you are going to spend the next four years of your life there. So don’t just pick it on, ‘They’re a great football team.’

SEE COLLEGIATE PAGE 20

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

20

OBSERVER

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OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2022

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

Jackson Bennett Jackson Bennett, a junior at Windermere Prep recently was named a U.S. Lacrosse All-Academic Player. Bennet has been part of the Lakers’ lacrosse team since seventh grade. Although he only played in 16 games during the the 2021-22 season, he scored 63 goals (averaging four per game), had 25 assists, took 133 shots on goal and had a .684 face-off percentage.

What do you love most about playing lacrosse?

I love, at least from this year, specifically, I love the team aspect — I love how much we’ve grown together. We’ve built a brotherhood and kind of like a family environment around us, so it’s a lot of fun to be a part of that team and progress together and achieve our goal like we did this year.

AGE: 17 GRADE: Junior POSITION: Mid-field and attack TEAM: Lacrosse SCHOOL: Windermere Prep

a guy like (him) who came from nothing and made it to the top — just to see his work ethic is really something awesome to watch and something that inspires you to be better yourself.

Favorite Netflix series?

I don’t really know, I haven’t watched Netflix in a long time.

When did you move to Florida?

I moved to Florida five years ago, so the summer going into seventh grade.

What other sports do you play?

I play football, and then I am also part of the weightlifting team.

Favorite movie?

“The Blind Side,” with Michael Oher. Just because football, I love football, football is my love. So a movie that has that in it and then just the story itself — to see

Favorite superhero?

I would have to say Thor. To be honest, I just think he is a funny guy, and the things that he stands for — he’s just admirable in a way.

He’s a fun person to watch.

If you had a superpower, which one would be and why?

Teleportation, because I feel that it would be fun to be able to experience all the different places and be able to go anywhere in an instant.

What’s your favorite food?

Probably what I eat the most, chicken.

You better love the school, feel at home with the coaching staff, (find out if) they have the resources, (what) tutoring they provide for athletes, all those things come into play.”

The recruitment process begins as early as freshman year — or in some cases, even earlier.

The process can go both ways.

Either college coaches get in touch with the student-athlete, or the high school coaches or athletic advisers start contacting college coaches.

“If I see there’s a kid interested in playing at the next level, first of all, I’ll meet with the parents and the student-athlete,” Lord said.

“I’ll give them a candor and honest opinion of where I think they will land: Division I, FCS, Division II, Division III, NAIA. Then I’ll send a press release out of the athlete to the coaches.”

For college coaches, the

Do you prefer Harry Potter or Lord of the Rings?

I would say Harry Potter.

What’s your favorite dessert?

Cheesecake.

Have you given any thought as to where you’d like to go to college?

I have. The goal for myself is to hopefully play football at an Ivy League.

What are you thinking about studying in college?

I’m thinking about studying business. Here at Windermere Prep, I take IB business course and it is something I enjoy taking and learning about, so I think that’s what I would like to learn in college, too.

How do you think lacrosse has played a part in more areas than just sport in your life?

I think a big role that lacrosse has taught me has been leadership, because we hadn’t had a senior on the team for the past two years. Last year, we only had one junior. I’ve kind of been the oldest of the team, even though I was only a sophomore or junior, so I immediately had to take on that role of being leader, and I was also a captain. So it’s kind of taught me to be more vocal, because a lot of people who know me would say I am a quiet person.

Lacrosse has taught me to be more vocal and reach out to other people and help other people in all the ways that I can.

What’s your favorite hobby?

Besides sports, probably video games. I like games where I feel like I can pass time. Plus, if I’m not able to be with my friends, something I can play with them if we are not next to each other.

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there between the end of August and the beginning of September.”

He received his offer to play three weeks after tryouts. He was in one of his classes at Horizon High School when he received the call.

“I actually got a call from my uncle at school; I was in math,” Fernandez said. “He told me that they had offered me a trial for two weeks. I ended up playing with them for three months.”

The program offered intensive training every day of the week, with games taking place on weekends.

“We loved the idea of him learning from different coaches in a different team,” Figueroa said. “His dad said his growth (during his time there) was incredible.”

During his time with the team, Fernandez trained twice a day, in the mornings and afternoons. The remaining time of the day was for the kids to tend to their academics.

“When we spoke to the coaches, they said the kids had to meet a certain schedule to do their homework,” Figueroa said. “They couldn’t leave the installations, they had certain days they could go out, and the outings had to be authorized.”

During his application process, Fernandez applied for financial aid.

The percentage of the scholarship he would be offered depended solely on his tryouts. He received a scholarship for 75% of the tuition.

THE FUTURE

While in Valencia, Fernandez stayed at the Global Football Total, the official center of the GlobalLevante project. He said the competition made him a better player and the memories will last a lifetime.

“I became really good friends with the kid who played my position,” he said. “But in the beginning, there was a lot of competition, because it was a matter of who got the starting role in the games and the practices and everything. But it was always healthy; it was never bad.”

Parallel to his development as a soccer player in Valencia, Fernandez also was in the process of becoming a U.S. citizen. On Nov.

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CHANGING MINDS

However, those early verbal commitments — some coming as early as middle school — sometimes change. And sometimes, they

never materialize at all.

“There’s just so many more things that can happen throughout the next three years if you commit as a freshman compared to if you do it when you’re a junior,” Lassiter said.

“But it’s up to the college coaches who are doing these commitments early to be able to evaluate a kid and see what they think he’s going to be in three years. So it’s kind of on them to do that.”

For Windermere High School senior Gustavo Mendez, the recruitment process started during his sophomore year, when he started to hear from different colleges. During October of his senior year, he received a verbal offer from Grambling State University in Louisiana to play baseball at the Division I collegiate level. Mendez is a catcher for the Wolverines.

“I waited until December, and that’s when I took the decision to do a verbal agreement with them,” he said.

For Mendez, the verbal CONTINUED ON PAGE 21

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recruitment process is a constant competition of securing the best talent for their respective programs. The earlier they start, the better chances they have at developing a competitive program.

“It locks (the player) up, and the other coaches stop recruiting that kid whenever they do decide to go there,” said Eric Lassiter, head coach of the Windermere High School baseball team. “There’s so much money involved, and it’s not for the kids, but these coaches are making a lot of money and their job requires them to win.”

Lassiter described the process as a waterfall or trickle-down effect. Despite not being able to sign the athletes at such a young age, schools start recruiting them with verbal commitments, because other schools are approaching the players earlier, too.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 19

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THE PROCESS

THE BASICS

How long have you been playing lacrosse?

I’ve been playing lacrosse for 13 years — since I was 4 years old.

I am originally from Baltimore, Maryland, and in Baltimore, lacrosse is the most popular sport. So everybody there, both my sisters, my parents both played, all my friends, everybody around me played lacrosse, so I got into lacrosse immediately when I could.

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Sebastian Fernandez plays centerfield for his team at Florida Rush Soccer.

10, he had to come back to Windermere to attend the appointment for his biometric fingerprints on Nov. 12. He went back to Valencia Nov. 16 and stayed until Dec. 23.

And on Jan. 31, he became a naturalized citizen of the U.S. Currently, Fernandez’s days are filled with schoolwork and twicea-day training. He still is in touch with Del Moral and Levante UD and hopes to return to Spain after graduation to play professionally in the third or fourth leagues.

“Those are underrated leagues here in America,” he said. “But over there is not as easy but is definitely not super hard to get in. And once you are there, you can make your way to the big leagues.”

Fernandez comes from a long line of soccer excellence. Julio Fernandez, Sebastian’s dad, and his uncle, Andy Fernandez, played soccer at the national level Shannon Till, Agent in Venezuela.

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“My pride was beyond me,” Julio Fernandez said. “They were

already starting to call him for the first team, and then he had to come back.”

He added that during Fernandez’s time with Global Football Total, coaches wanted him to start training with the Patacona team, which was on a higher level than Levante UD. “But his stay was often interrupted because of the immigration appointments he had here,” Julio Fernandez said.

Fernandez has a Spanish citizenship, which was one of the reasons his integration to the team was smooth.

“I’ve always admired his delivery and the passion he has for the game,” Julio Fernandez said. “In fact, in a review I got from the team, the coaches highlighted his delivery. They really loved that about him, because he was always passionate about being at practice We’re all in this together. and giving his all.”

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MATTERS OF MONEY

Since last year, college athletes are able to receive a form of compensation from playing at the collegiate level known as NIL deals.

This compensation is usually money earned by the studentathletes when their name, image or a reference of their persona is used for advertisement or social media shoutout by their university and sports team.

“It’s crazy, because now the kids aren’t just going to pick their school based on the sport,” Lord said. “They are going to pick it on how much money they can make.”

For Lassiter, NIL deals can help student athletes get through college without having many financial hardships lurking on the back of their heads.

“Say you don’t have a lot of money — that’s paying for your school,” he said. “When you are giving these NIL deals, it might help … ensure (students) are going to get a college diploma. If baseball doesn’t work out, then they have that diploma rather than jumping ship early, because they are not making money, and their parents are struggling to make sure the ends meet. This kind of fills that gap. I think for baseball, it could help students stay in school longer.”

THE TRANSFER PORTAL

Celia Rosa Canchani, 80, of Windermere, died April 26, 2022.

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Grady Moxley Rhodes, of Winter Garden, Florida, born April 10, 1937, passed away peacefully on April 23, 2022, at his home surrounded by his family.

Grady is survived by his wife of 63 years, Annie Bell Rhodes; children, Greg (Judy) Rhodes and Carla Asendorf; grandchildren, Timothy (Jillian) Waters, Tiffany (Nick) Joiner, Jordan Rhodes and Ben Rhodes; and greatgrandchildren, Vanessa Waters, Isla Joiner, Mila Waters, Alexis Birnstihl and Tanner Birnstihl.

Grady’s life was celebrated with his immediate family in a private service, and he was laid to rest April 26, 2022, at Winter Garden Cemetery.

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The transfer portal is a database of every player looking to transfer from his or her current school. This portal is available for every sport at the collegiate level. To enter, a studentathlete must notify his or her school’s compliance department.

The student is required to tell his or her coach before he or she is entered, but once they go to compliance, they have 48 hours to be entered into the portal. Once in, schools can begin contacting the student. The portal allows students to transfer schools only once during their collegiate careers.

For Florida, that may be the best way to assemble the Gators of the future. And it may leave Meassick on the outside looking in.

“That’s how you get old quick, you go through the transfer portal,” Lord said. “You get juniors and seniors (who) are eligible for the transfer portal who fit your program, and you don’t have to take a risk on a high school kid.”

Foundation Academy alumni Cory Rahman and Evan Thomson both

Robert “Bob” Reynolds Mitchell, 76, of Winter Garden, passed away Wednesday, April 13, 2022.

He was born July 20, 1945, in Moultrie, Georgia, the son of the late Joseph Henry and Susie Belle (Brown) Mitchell.

Bob served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam conflict.

He worked for several years as a truck driver. Bob was an avid golfer and enjoyed sailing. He was a very active member of the First United Methodist Church of Winter Garden, where he served in many roles.

He is survived by his wife of

ROBERT “BOB” REYNOLDS MITCHELL DIED APRIL 13, 2022.

THURSDAY,MAY 5, 2022

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agreement never made it to paper.

During the 2022 season, he decided to retract his verbal commitment and accept an offer from Chipola College, a junior college.

“Grambling is a good program,” he added. “But I think Chipola College is a better opportunity for me to develop as an athlete and as a person, too.”

Mendez’s long-term goal is to enter the baseball MLB draft. If he had signed with Grambling State, he would have had to wait until his third year of college to be able to enter the draft. Chipola only offers two years of college education, so he will be eligible to enter the draft at the end of his sophomore year.

“I may go to a Division I after,” Mendez said. “Or maybe if I get a good offer right out of junior college, I’ll probably take it.”

Foundation quarterback Sabby Meassick — an eighth-grader — received a verbal scholarship to the University of Florida in October 2021. When he received the offer, he had not yet started a single game for the Lions.

Fast-forward seven months, and Florida has a new football coach in Billy Napier.

And although the change has Gator fans excited for the upcoming season, it throws offers such as Meassick’s into uncertainty.

“I don’t know if this new coaching staff is going to hold on to the offer,” Lord said. “They are probably not looking at eighth-graders right now, because Florida needs to get old quick.”

Enter, the transfer portal.

almost 50 years, Ruth (Lloyd) Mitchell, of Winter Garden; his son, John David Mitchell, of Plant City; one daughter, Deborah Lyn Leonard and her husband, Patrick, of St. Charles, Illinois; one sister, Geraldine Meadows, of Winter Garden; one brother, Grady Mitchell, of Debary, Florida; five grandchildren, Jennifer Mitchell, Ethan Mitchell, Dylan Mitchell, Emily Leonard and Maycie Leonard; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his siblings, Jeanette Smith, Harry Mitchell and Ernie Mitchell.

A celebration of life will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, May 16, 2022, at the First United Methodist Church of Winter Garden.

A reception will follow at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the First United Methodist Church of Winter Garden, 125 N. Lakeview Ave., Winter Garden, FL 34787.

Collison Carey Hand Funeral Home of Winter Garden is entrusted with arrangements.

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utilized the transfer portal. Rahman initially attended Southeastern University (NAIA) but later decided to enter the portal and transferred to Tennessee State University to play at the FCS level. Thompson initially committed to Florida Tech to play at the Division II level, but because the school shut the football program during COVID-19, he decided to transfer to Kennesaw State University.

The transfer portal can bring some negative consequences to the world of high school sports. Lord said about four years ago, universities had between 25 to 30 spots to fill with high-schoolers. Now, they may have only five or six sports available.

“It makes it hard, but at the same time, a coach can get up and leave whenever he wants for the next big gig,” Lassiter said. “So, I think that to allow them to do it one time if they are not happy is good. I don’t think they should allow them any more than that.

“But it’s just going to be a fine line there,” he said. “Because everybody thinks if they don’t like their situation, they can just pack their stuff. I’m not sure that’s necessarily what we want to be teaching young people — that if you are not having success or you’re facing some adversity you just pack up and leave and run to the next big thing. I don’t think that’s going to help you out in real life. … You got to figure it out in real life.”

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 20

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50 carter road

YOUR LOCAL EXPERTS FOR HAND GUNS LONG GUNS CLEANING KITS SCOPES KNIVES RED DOT BODY ARMOUR HOLSTERS AMMO FLASHLIGHTS

BRING IN YOUR TRAD E AND BE SURPRISED .

HEADLAMPS MAGAZINES BB GUNS PELLET GUNS AR15S LOCATION

www.wgfeed.com

12403 WEST COLONIAL DR (BEHIND MAIN STREET MOWER) WINTER GARDEN, FL 34787

HOURS

MON - FRI: 8:30AM – 5:30PM SATURDAY: 8:30AM – 1PM SUNDAY: CLOSED 381341-1

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S ’ E R E H T !

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XNLV18913

Flip the page for more sales and specials!

THE WEST ORANGE JUNIOR SERVICE LEAGUE WITH OUR PRESENTING SPONSOR GENTLE TOUCH MEDI SPA & WELLNESS PROUDLY PRESENTS

12 Annual th

0 $15 er

P n Perso

Kentucky Darby Party

saturday, may 7

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Starts at 5pm

Ocoee Lakeshore Center 150 NORTH LAKESHORE DRIVE OCOEE, FL 34761 JOIN US FOR A FUN FILLED NIGHT TO RAISE MUCH NEEDED FUNDS TO SUPPORT THE MANY LOCAL CHARITIES HERE IN WEST ORANGE COUNTY. MINT JULEPS, KENTUCKY INSPIRED CUISINE, CASINO GAMING, LIVE DJ, SILENT AUCTION, LIVE SHOWING OF THE 148TH KENTUCKY DERBY AND COMPLIMENTARY OPEN BAR

Best Ladies Derby Hat & Best Dressed Man Contests

SPONSORSHIPS AVAILABLE TO PURCHASE TICKETS OR SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES VISIT

BIDPAL.NET/R4R2022 OR WWW.WOJSL.COM OR EMAIL WOJSLCORRESPONDENCE@GMAIL.COM

Must be at least 21 years of age to attend

Historic Winter Garden

Downtown Boutique Walk Join us for a splendid evening of shopping, sips, and snacks!

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Historic Downtown Saturday, March 26

4th of JULY WEEKEND FUN Live Music Patriotic Farmers Market Kids Parade ARTIST: SUSAN GROGAN ALCOHOL INK

Fireworks

@officialdowntownwintergarden