05.12.22 West Orange Times & Observer

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

Observer Winter Garden, Ocoee, Oakland

YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.

VOLUME 89, NO. 19

IN FOCUS

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THURSDAY, MAY 12, 2022

A Derby look!

West Orange Junior Service League goes all in. SEE 10.

Final delivery Winter Garden carrier Tim Rice is saying goodbye to the U.S. Postal Service following a career that spanned more than three decades.

STORY ON PAGE 4.

Winter Garden, Ocoee firefighters complete training week.

PAGES 6-7

YOUR TOWN HANG OUT ON FOLTZ LOOP

The town of Oakland has made good on its promise to name one of its streets after Dennis Foltz, the previous town manager who held the post for nine years and led the quiet town through a necessary and controlled growth plan.

Foltz and his wife, DeAnna Cree, who moved out of the area when he retired in 2018, stopped by “his street” last week to see his street sign and snap a photo with it.

GOODWILL ANNOUNCES SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM Goodwill Industries of Central Florida announced yet another way it will help to pave the way for its employees’ futures.

The nonprofit organization announced its new Tuition Scholarship Program Tuesday, May 3. All part-time and full-time employees with at least 90 days of continuous employment are eligible to have 100% of their tuition, books and other fees covered in advance, rather than being reimbursed after.

Those who are interested must be enrolled at a Florida public college or university, accredited technical college or trade school in addition to maintaining a passing grade of “C” or its equivalent.

PRSRT STD ECRWSS US POSTAGE PAID WINTER GARDEN, FL PERMIT NO. 81

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Postal Customer

Amy Quesinberry

Tim Rice: “I believe the mailman should leave a legacy. He was there every single day, never missed a day, and always put the mail in the right mailbox.”

SPIN CYCLE

Fun-filled evening Palm Lake Elementary School students enjoy 2022 Bobcat Carnival.

SEE PAGE 15.

The city of Ocoee welcomed residents to its first Cinco de Mayo Block Party. PAGE 3.

Signs of the time Ocoee leaders approve limits on when residents can display political signs on their properties. PAGE 2.

BRAINFOOD

This month, learn all about dim sum! Page 18.

OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, MAY 12, 2022

Ocoee approves amendment regulating campaign signs ANDREA MUJICA STAFF WRITER

Property owners in Ocoee now have new rules that govern when they can place campaign signs on their property.

The Ocoee City Commission approved the recommended amendment for Article VIII relating to political campaign signs Tuesday, May 3.

Under the amendment, political campaign signs may be placed on commercial and residential private property no earlier than 90 days prior to an election or referendum.

The amendment also provides an extension for taking down the signs.

Before, property owners had 48 hours to remove signs. Now, they have five days after the scheduled election to remove them.

Commissioner George Oliver, who ultimately opposed the amendment, raised concerns regarding First Amendment rights.

“That’s a slippery slope, because now we are talking about constitutional rights,” he said. “You are talking about private property, citizens rights and regulating what they can say and what they can put on their private property. So now we are coming into an area (where) we are trying to dictate what folks can or cannot do when it comest to the First Amendment and their constitutional rights. … So, I agree with everything here, but when we get into that part, I have to have some reservations about that.”

City attorney Scott Cookson said the amendment does not regulate the kind of messaging but rather just the timing.

“It’s certainly a consideration,” Cookson said of Oliver’s concerns.

“Anytime you are dealing with signage and campaign signs, there’s First Amendment issues. Here, those issues relate more to regulating content. We are not regulating content, we are not imposing a regulation that says they can’t have a Democrat put up a sign, only Republicans — that’s regulating content, or the message on the sign. But place, location, size, certainly permissible.”

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REGENCY PROJECT

The commission approved unanimously the preliminary stage plan and developer for The Regency Mixed project, a mixeduse development with about 300 residential multi-family units.

The property contains three parcels over a total of 16.68 acres. The new construction will be located on the

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n The commission recognized Ocoee High School student Taylar Watson, winner of the Florida Black Caucus of Local Elected Officials annual essay contest. n The Ocoee High School track team was recognized by the commissioners after winning the district championship on April 22. n Members of the Ocoee Youth Council spoke. The commission recognized the council’s three seniors, Andrea Sia, Ashley Clarke and Maryah Jimenez. n Mayor Rusty Johnson recognized Foundation Academy senior Justin Williams for recently being awarded the annual Jersey Mike’s Naismith High School Basketball Courage Award. n The second reading of an ordinance for the 429 Business Center, pertaining a comprehensive plan amendment to Light Industrial and corresponding rezoning to I-1 to develop 70,720 square feet of light industrial warehouse space, is scheduled for May 17. n The commission approved the Kicks 4 Guns event and the donation of state forfeiture funds to support programs and organizations that partner with the police department.

STUM

north side of Florida’s Turnpike and the west side of the Maguire Road and Old Winter Garden Road intersection.

This development is providing an initial extension and the first form of a future block by Old Winter Garden Road.

The project will have two public roads and an internal drive. The north side of the parcel will consist of two buildings with retail on the bottom floor and apartments above it with associated parking, and the south side will be multi-family apartments by the right of way, creating a mid-town feel for the urban development.

SELF-STORAGE FACILITIES

The commission approved the Land Development Code Amendment relating to self-storage facilities.

On Sept. 21, 2021, the commission approved a temporary suspension pertaining to the processing and consideration of applications for development orders and development and building permits regarding selfstorage facilities. Currently, the city has 11 such facilities either operating, under development or that have been approved recently.

The amendment includes the following: further maintaining the current code provisions for the properties that are located within special overlay districts with a C-3 or a I-1 zoning designation, whether self-storage will be permitted only as an accessory use, and the use of selfstorage facility to being considered a special exception in C-3 and I-1 zoning districts within the city.

Oliver opposed the motion.

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The amendment comes after commissioners received numerous complaints from citizens about political signs.

“I’ve got so many people telling me they are so tired of seeing the signs in my district,” Commissioner Rosemary Wilsen said. “I can’t count how many, but I get probably blasted with (them) if not every day, every other day while I’m out. … I can’t give you the number, but I can say I’ve got numerous.”

Although Oliver agreed some sort of regulation was necessary to prevent signs from being displayed for a year, ultimately, he dissented.

“We regulate everything on people’s private property,” Mayor Rusty Johnson said. “Anybody wants to do something in their yard, they are going to come and tell us about it, that’s the way it works … Not just here in Ocoee, it’s everywhere.”

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THURSDAY, MAY 12, 2022

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NEWS BRIEFS DESANTIS SIGNS TAX-RELIEF PACKAGE

Buddy New enjoyed the event while resting comfortably atop his owner’s shoulders.

Aaron Richardson, 7, got a shark painted onto his face.

Evelyn Hawthorne, 10 months, donned a tiny sombrero in celebration of Cinco de Mayo.

OCOEE CELEBRATES

CINCO DE MAYO

Zach Henderson, 6, got some advice from his dad as he navigated the rock-climbing wall.

Gov. Ron DeSantis on Friday, May 6, signed a bill that will provide more than $1.2 billion in tax relief.

House Bill 7071 provides for 10 sales-tax holidays for a variety of items, such as fuel, diapers and appliances.

Additionally, permanent tax relief provided in the legislation consists of various sales tax exemptions, corporate income tax credit expansions, and ad valorem tax and exemption provisions. These will generate an additional $190 million in savings over two years and $140 million annually after that.

“Florida’s economy has consistently outpaced the nation, but we are still fighting against inflationary policies imposed on us by the Biden administration,” DeSantis said. “In Florida, we are going to support our residents and help them afford the goods that they need. Florida has been fiscally responsible, so we are in a good position to provide meaningful relief for families, right now.”

“The Florida House’s tax package — the largest middle-class tax relief package in the history of the state — is now the law of the land,” House Speaker Chris Sprowls said. “A bill like this has never been more needed than it is right now.

Reckless federal spending sent inflation rates spiraling higher than we’ve seen in generations, and Floridians are feeling the impacts.

From tools to diapers to books for summer reading, this billion-dollar tax package includes something for every Floridian, and that’s what I’m most proud of.”

“Florida cannot independently fix or outrun all of the problems leading to the cost increases that are wreaking havoc on families, especially our most vulnerable,” Senate President Wilton Simpson said. “However, we are working to ease the pain with broad-based sales tax relief and a monthlong gas tax holiday.”

THE 10 TAX HOLIDAYS n A one-month Fuel Tax Holiday from Oct. 1 to 31, 2022, saving Floridians $200 million by lowering the price of gas by 25.3 cents per gallon.

Toll Road Brewing Company served up its El Sombrero Mexican lager at this year’s Cinco de Mayo event.

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he city of Ocoee kept the Cinco de Mayo party rolling into the following night as it hosted its Cinco de Mayo Block Party Friday, May 6, on McKey Street.

The party featured live music, face painting, a balloon artist, a rock-climbing wall and carnival rides. Attendees also enjoyed plenty of delicious eats and drinks from Ocoee businesses such as Ocoee Taco Company, Toll Road Brewing Company, Bike Life Café, Nessa’s BBQ, DG Doughnuts and Pelican’s SnoBalls.

n A three-month sales-tax holiday for children’s books from May 14 through Aug. 14, 2022, providing $3.3 million in tax relief. n A one-year sales-tax holiday from July 1, 2022, through June 30, 2023, for baby and toddler clothes and shoes, providing $81.5 million in tax relief. n A one-year sales-tax holiday from July 1, 2022, through June 30, 2023, for children’s diapers, providing $38.9 million in tax relief. n A 14-day Back-to-School salestax holiday from July 25 through Aug. 7, 2022, for clothing, shoes, backpacks and school supplies, providing $100 million in tax relief. n A 14-day Disaster Preparedness sales-tax holiday from May 28 through June 10, 2022, for supplies such as flashlights, radios, tarps, batteries and fire extinguishers, providing $25.6 million in tax relief.

— MICHAEL ENG

Francisco Enamorado and the Ocoee Taco Company stayed busy all night.

n A seven-day Tool-Time sales-tax holiday from Sept. 3 to 9, 2022, for tools and other home-improvement items, providing $12.4 million in tax relief. n A two-year sales-tax holiday from July 1, 2022, through June 30, 2024, for impact-resistant windows, doors and garage doors, providing $442.8 million in tax relief. n A seven-day Freedom Week from July 1 to 7, 2022, providing a sales tax exemption for specified admissions and items related to recreational activities, providing $70.6 million in tax relief. n A one-year Energy Star Appliances sales-tax holiday from July 1, 2022, through June 30, 2023, for washing machines, clothes dryers, water heaters and refrigerators, providing $78.5 million in tax relief.

Karen Climer, aka The Balloon Twister, created a variety of toys for attendees.

Mildred Carey, 6, loved riding this spinning carnival ride with her dad.

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THURSDAY, MAY 12, 2022

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

Friedrich Hayek

“Road to Serfdom,” 1944 Editor and Publisher / Michael Eng, meng@OrangeObserver.com 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

Tim Rice, likely home after delivering the day’s mail, and Chad taught Miranda how to ride a bike in 1992.

CONTACT US

Postal carrier hangs up mail bag AMY QUESINBERRY COMMUNITY EDITOR

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here are certain addresses that will stick in Tim Rice’s memory as a 34-year mail carrier for the U.S. Postal Service.

Mrs. Kannon lived at 505 N. Boyd St. in Winter Garden and kept a barbecue grill next to her mailbox.

Every day, Rice opened the mailbox to deliver her mail and then opened the grill lid to find a 32-ounce glass of ice water waiting for him.

Over on Florida Avenue, another resident watched for him to walk up the street and then went outside to greet him with a glass of cold water.

And he knew when he walked into Shirley’s Antiques on West Colonial Drive, a small chest filled with inexpensively priced refreshing sodas awaited him.

Rice has seen many changes in his more than three decades as the postal carrier for both rural and city routes.

When he took the position in 1988, the city had six regular routes, one auxiliary route and two rural routes — and this included two walking routes roughly 12 miles each. When Rice, 62, retired Friday, May 6, the city counted 12 city routes and nearly 35 rural routes.

Those two walking routes were divided into north and south. Rice took care of City Route 3, the north side, and he could walk it in four hours and 45 minutes.

“My wife used to tell me I walked like my butt was on fire,” he said. “You get your route done earlier that way.”

One good thing about his route was his own house was on it, so Rice stopped there each day to have lunch with Sandy, his wife of 37 years.

SPECIAL DELIVERY

When Rice was a preteen, he worked with his father, Al Rice, at his Winter Garden Sign Company on South Main Street. The father-son duo clocked out at lunchtime every workday and headed to the Winter Garden Lanes

bowling alley, where they ate their noon meal with two Winter Garden mail carriers, Bill Richards and Lloyd Thornton. Rice loved hearing post office stories from the pair, and it created a desire to work for the U.S. Postal Service. Years later, when Rice turned 28, the two men became his coworkers.

He worked at the downtown Winter Garden Post Office for close to 15 years before shifting to the main office after it was built on West Colonial Drive.

Rice’s earlier route covered doctors’ offices, including his own doctor, Charles Carter, as well as West Orange Memorial Hospital, where he was born.

In the beginning of his career, Rice delivered mostly bills, letters and magazines.

“One of the ones you don’t forget are the ones that receive large sums of mail volume,” he said. “Some people would get four or five letters, and there are others who would get magazines and a stack of letters and you would have to put a rubber band around them.

“We now receive packages,” he said. “(Residents) get on their phone or iPad, and the mailman delivers it to your door. … I didn’t mind. That’s how the job evolved.”

On his final day, he snapped a photo of the back of his mail truck — and it contained more packages than letters.

The walking routes were eliminated when the city started a campaign to encourage all residents to place their mailboxes curbside to speed up mail delivery by truck.

As the city grew, Rice’s mail route changed and he delivered from one of the mail trucks. The Garden Heights and Teacup Springs neighborhoods were added, as was his own subdivision, Crown Point Springs — and eventually he delivered to the newer subdivisions to the north: Fullers Landing, Tuscany and McAllister Landing.

Customers became friends, and Rice enjoyed that aspect of his job.

Courtesy photos

On Tim Rice’s last day of work, he snapped a photo of his mail truck, which had more packages than letters.

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.

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STATEMENT OF OWNERSHIP Tim Rice frequently was photographed while wearing his United States Postal Service uniform.

He placed good news in mailboxes; cards to celebrate holidays, birthdays and anniversaries; and birth announcements and collegeacceptance letters. But he delivered more than that. He said during the pandemic he saw more people at home and got to know more of the residents on his route. When he saw a man trying to get his lawnmower to work, Rice told him he had an extra one at home and took it to him.

“People that knew me; they would donate those things to me, and I could give to people — bikes, lawnmowers, ceiling fans,” he said. “And it was helping people. I saw kids out there with no bicycles, and people would give me bikes, and I’d deliver them to their parents.”

He made friends with the neighborhood children too, and many of them waited for him to hand them their family’s mail.

“They called me Rubber Band Man,” he said. “If I didn’t have mail for them, I would give them a rubber band. You didn’t want to disappoint them. I watched them from 2, 3 years of age, and I watched them grow up and graduate and get married and have kids.”

Rice still can recall names and addresses of people he delivered to over the years.

For some residents, Rice has been their only mail carrier. A few days before his retirement, a couple stopped him and asked how much longer he planned to deliver mail.

We’ve been here 30 years, and you’ve been the only mailman, they told him.

POST-POST OFFICE

Rice decided it was time to retire when the heat from the Florida sun became unbearable. Telling all of his customers was difficult, physically and emotionally.

“I didn’t know how to say goodbye to everyone; I was trying to say goodbye as I saw them,” he said. “When I posted (my message) on NextDoor, I got like 600 messages.”

Rice’s last day was Friday, April 29.

The postal crew — including all the bosses and the city and rural carriers — gathered at the main post office for a big spread of food and desserts and to say their own goodbyes.

His retirement plans include flying on an airplane and riding on a boat — two things he has never done — so he and his wife can see the whales and glaciers of Alaska. One of the people on his route just moved here from Alaska, so the two have been talking about what to see and do.

The Rices have three young grandsons who live within 15 minutes.

“They’re with me all the time,” he said. “Almost every day, and that’s what keeps me going. … Now that I’m retired, I can get them back out there and back in their activities.”

He also expects to stay in touch with his coworkers and the friends along his route.

“The people I work with, they’ve said, ‘You could be a historian,’” Rice said. “I remember way back. I tell them all these stories about what used to be here in Winter Garden.

Some of them, they weren’t even born yet when I started my career.”

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Bulk Pantry plans for new chapter

THURSDAY, MAY 12, 2022

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“The end result was a scrumptious cake that everyone in the family could enjoy,” Green said. “While shopping there, I discovered her peanut butter cookies: gluten-, dairy- and sugar-free. These were a blessing to round out my highly restricted diet.”

In addition to her customers and two sons, Nobles said her husband, Dwayne, father, Scott, and mom, Kathy, have been her motivation and have helped her along the way.

SWEET SAGA

Owner April Nobles is moving from her storefront in downtown Winter Garden.

But her products still will be available.

ANNABELLE SIKES STAFF WRITER

April Nobles’ delicious low-carb, glutenfree, diabetic-friendly, vegan and Keto custom baked desserts are created through her love of people.

She said knowing she is helping someone else is one of the most rewarding aspects of her job.

Although she has always been in the service industry, she originally wanted to be a nurse or work with the Special Olympics.

“This kind of satisfies that void of helping people who not everyone can help, and supplying something that, I mean, eating a piece of cake at a birthday party is so monumental and when you can’t do that or when you have to sacrifice a comfort food because you can no longer have it, it takes a toll on someone’s emotions and how they lead their lives,” Nobles said.

“I really don’t think you should have to sacrifice anything.”

Now, The Bulk Pantry owner will be starting a new chapter in her culinary journey with the transition of her business.

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Annabelle Sikes

April Nobles is the proud owner of The Bulk Pantry.

“I have a family, just like everyone else, and I was already working six days a week, and I am now working seven days a week since basically last August,” she said. “I just felt like this was a turning point as to what direction I wanted to take the business in.”

Although the downtown Winter Garden area is beautiful and popular, Nobles said rent is expensive.

Balancing the business herself while also being the mother of two children, Blake, 8, and Ryan, 6, has proven to be difficult.

However, even with everything she is dealing with, she said she is working hard to maintain the quality and consistency of her product.

“Somebody once told me a few years ago, ‘Do the one thing that you do, do it at 100%, and do it well, and then everything else will follow,’” she said. “That’s something I’ve always kept with me.”

CUSTOMER CONTRIBUTIONS

Although the past few years have been tumultuous, the one constant has been the pantry’s loyal customer base.

Nobles said she will miss the interaction with her customers, because many not only are customers but also dear friends.

“My customers are amazing; I’ve always told them they are all rock stars,” Nobles said. “You encourage, you give me grace, strength, and I’m humbled by just the outpour and the following.”

Starting from nothing more than four years ago, The Bulk Pantry now has about 10,000 followers on Facebook.

Customer and friend Gloria Green said she met Nobles at the end of January when she needed a birthday cake for a party.

Because of allergies, Green said she offered to find a birthday cake that was dairy-, dye- and gluten-free.

The bulk goods shop originally opened in January 2018 in the Tri-City Shopping Center at the northeast corner of South Dillard Street and West Colonial Drive.

The shop offered a wide selection of cooking and baking ingredients customers could buy in bulk, such as nuts, candies, spices, flours, coffees, and dried fruits and vegetables.

Nobles said the Florida humidity was taking a toll on the business, and she was throwing away more goods than she was selling.

One day, a customer asked her if she had ever baked anything, and another asked her about Keto, but she had no idea what that was. Nobles conducted days of research and talked to nutritionists before buying a toaster oven and beginning to bake muffins a dozen at a time.

“It blew a door open for a whole need I think this community didn’t know they needed, but knew they needed,” she said.

Nobles started with low-carb muffins and bread before venturing her way into cupcakes. In June 2019, the pantry moved to its new location at 103 S. Main St., in downtown Winter Garden.

In addition to the storefront, Nobles started subscription boxes in August 2021.

The item assortment changes each month, and all items are frozen and vacuum-sealed prior to shipping. She said she sells anywhere from 30 to 70 boxes a month.

A NEW PATH

On Saturday, May 28, Nobles will close her downtown Winter Garden storefront and start anew.

One week later, on Saturday, June 4, her goods will be available in a cooler across the street from her current shop in Main House Market. She will stock the cooler with all of her bestsellers such as doughnuts, cakes, cheesecakes, muffins, cookies and seasonal offerings. She also will be supplying products to The Modern Host on Dillard Street.

In addition, Nobles will run the majority of her operations out of a commercial kitchen on State Road 50.

The owner of the pantry will still be doing custom orders, partnering with another local bakery to work out of the space on the days it is closed, creating a benefit for both businesses.

COVID COMPLICATIONS

The Bulk Pantry was not immune to the complications of the coronavirus pandemic.

“We made it through COVID, but it wasn’t easy,” Nobles shared. “Even after, at the tail end of COVID, I pretty much lost all my staff.”

Nobles had to take a hard, honest look at her business.

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THURSDAY, MAY 12, 2022

The quickest exit point in most areas of a residential structure is a window. This provides the rescue team a short distance to drag the person to the window and incorporate another team on the outside to the ladder and remove the occupant down to safety. The process of setting up the ladder outside the window may be completed by one firefighter or by a team of two. If only one firefighter is available, the interior rescue team may need to assist in the ladder descent. This is where one firefighter will heel the ladder at the bottom while the interior team will send one firefighter out onto the ladder to receive the occupants as they are passed out.

TRAINING DAY ANNABELLE SIKES STAFF WRITER

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Ocoee Fire Rescue members Engineer Paramedic Michael Arrant, Firefighter and EMT Kalen Lilly and Lieutenant Paramedic Bronson Fernandez.

Firefighter and EMT Kalen Lilly changes out her SCBA bottle.The self-contained breathing apparatus cylinders provide clean, breathable air to workers in IDLH, immediately dangerous to life or health, and non-IDLH environments. The cylinder connects to a tube to deliver air to a facepiece or mask. Cylinder size determines how long the cylinder can be used before it needs to be recharged. SCBA revolutionized firefighter safety and effectiveness, allowing firefighters to go deeper into dangerous environments while not breathing toxic fumes.

he Winter Garden Fire Rescue Department and the Ocoee Fire Rescue Department recently came together for a week of collaborative training at the south campus of Orange Technical College, also known as Mid Florida Tech, which also houses the Central Florida Fire Academy.

Firefighters engaged in a multitude of drills and evolutions with the help of the school’s practice buildings and the department’s equipment.

According to the WGFRD training overview, the actions of the first arriving units to a structure fire play a crucial role in the overall success of the incident.

The department’s leaders said they are committed to placing the preservation of life as their top priority.

Primary searches were conducted as early into the fire ground operation as possible and accomplished by search techniques that were appropriate to the situation. These techniques included oriented search; split search; and Vent, Enter and Search. While the primary search was being conducted, other critical operations that support the search took place.

These operations included forcible entry, placing a line in-service for fire attack and extinguishment, second line in operation to protect a stairwell, and ventilation.

According to the department, time is the enemy of victim survivability. Firefighters must turn out quickly and respond to the correct location by the fastest route, make entry into a structure and occupy the space where victims will likely be, aggressively attack the seat of the fire and provide ventilation of toxic gasses and heat, remove victims using effective techniques, and provide EMS treatment and transport to an appropriate receiving facility.

Tom Smothers, acting fire chief at the Ocoee Fire Department, said both departments are small and

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the training allows more people to be involved in the same amount of time. In addition, the two often run calls together. If one department gets a house fire call at night, chances are the neighboring city is going to be involved and help out, Smothers explained.

“It helps us both understand what the other department is going to do,” he said. “We all pretty much work under the same general protocols and under the same Incident Command System under Orange County, but it’s great for us to get together when it’s a lower stress environment and work together, work out any kinks that we may have in communication or teamwork, or what have you and we can work it out on the fire ground in a training scenario. Therefore, when we get into a real-life scenario we will be much more efficient and work together as a single unit instead of two departments. We don’t want to practice until we get it right, we want to practice until we can’t get it wrong because we have lives at stake.”

Smothers said the department follows a certain amount of training hours per year based on the Insurance Services Office. The score reflects how prepared a community and area is for fires, and Ocoee is rated as an ISO 1.

The basic firefighting training for this ISO is 192 hours per year, with an additional six hours of HAZMAT training and an additional 18 hours at a facility. Lieutenants and higher are considered officers, meaning they must also engage in 12 hours of officer training and operators or drivers must do 12 hours of driver engineer training.

The rescue teams try to complete their facility hours during the cooler months of the year with training assignments and video training online throughout the summer months. In addition, Smothers said he is planning to include mental health training for the firefighters in August. He said he also encourages his team to train during their shift.

See more photos at OrangeObserver.com

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OBSERVER

Firefighters from the two departments gathered around the training leaders to go through instruction and procedures before training.

Participants engaged in two drills and three different evolutions over a period of three to four hours. Topics included safety practices, position descriptions, incident command system, fire ground and tactical operations. Another topic was the “two-in-two-out” provision, which requires at least two employees to enter the Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health atmosphere and remain in visual or voice contact with each other at all times. It also requires at least two employees to be located outside the IDLH atmosphere, thus the term.

According to statistics from the Firefighter Rescue Survey, of the first 2,000 rescues made in 2022, 94% of all rescues were made during offensive operations. Because of the shift from traditional work and school hours, victims are located during a wide range of times of the day: 00:00 to 02:59, 20%; 03:00 to 05:59, 18%; 06:00 to 08:59, 10%; 09:00 to 11:59, 11%; 12:00 to 14:59, 9%; 15:00 to 17:59, 9%; 18:00 to 20:59, 11%; and 21:00 to 23:59, about 13%.

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THURSDAY, MAY 12, 2022

There are many ways to remove a victim from harm. One of the most common practices is the standing drag. Firefighters will kneel at the head of the supine victim and raise the victim’s head and torso by 90 degrees. Rescuers will then reach under the victim’s arms, wrapping their arms around the victim’s chest, and lock their arms. Firefighters then stand straight using their legs to drag the victim to safety.

Firefighters work together to practice forcible entry, an essential fireground function. Skilled entry into a building is fast and efficient, minimizing damage and allowing for safe and secure entry and exit for other firefighters. Fire service tools provide a multitude of functions. Striking tools include a flat-headed ax or sledgehammer, prying tools include a crowbar, Halligan tool or pry bar, cutting tools include axes, saws or bolt cutters and pulling tools like come-alongs.

No real-life victims were used in any of the practice drills. Dummies represented practice victims. Real fire also was not used, although thick smoke filled the buildings for the training, making it difficult to see inches in front of one’s face. According to statistics from the Firefighter Rescue Survey, of the first 2,000 rescues made in 2022, 38% of the WGFRD victims were located in low visibility with a 60% survival rate while 34% of the victims were located in zero visibility with a 47% survival rate. Rates for survival drop from nearly 80% to 35% when the search time extends from two minutes to the 10-20 minute range. Victims behind closed doors have a survivability rate of 86% compared to 62% of those not behind a closed door. More civilians are killed by smoke and toxic gasses than fire, which places an emphasis on coordinated and intelligent ventilation early into the operation.

WGFRD Firefighter Casey Braga and WGFRD Firefighter Paramedic Chris Moy from Rescue 24 prepare for the morning training session. Moy said he became a firefighter because he always loved the fire service growing up around the station, as his dad was a firefighter. “It’s very special to me. I love helping people and being a part of something bigger than myself.”

One of the easiest ways to bring a victim down a ladder is to have them lie horizontal across the arms of the rescuer. This position allows the firefighter to maintain control of the person at all times while descending down the ladder one rung at a time. It is important that the victim be firmly supported in two key areas, under the armpit and in between the legs; this way the occupant will not slide out from underneath the firefighter and fall to the ground.

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OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, MAY 12, 2022

Horizon West residents speak against development AMY QUESINBERRY COMMUNITY EDITOR

BAPTIST

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

Several dozen Horizon West residents attended a community meeting hosted

by Orange County to oppose a new neighborhood proposed near Avalon Road and New Independence Parkway.

The meeting regarding land rezoning was held Thursday, May 5, at Bridgewater Middle. Adriana Trujillo-Villa, assistant project manager with Orange County, hosted the meeting; Scott Gentry, a civil engineer with Kelly, Collins & Gentry, was there to answer questions about the proposed project. District 1 Commissioner Nicole Wilson was not present for the meeting.

The applicants — John Noonan, Gentry and Steven Thorp — are requesting to rezone nearly 60 acres from A-1 Citrus Rural District to PD Planned Development District in order to build 184 single-family homes within the Town Center of Horizon West. The property is located east of Avalon Road and north of New Independence Parkway between land with a rural settlement designation and land that has been more densely developed.

The project essentially would be divided into two sections. One-third of the homes — which would abut a rural settlement — would be built two per acre, on 23 acres; the area would have green space, parks and retention ponds, Gentry said.

A greenbelt is proposed to run along the western and northern edges of the property. The other two-thirds would be constructed four or five per acre, for a total of 57 houses, on the southeast corner of the property near heavily developed land.

The proposal includes three neighborhood entrances on the east end of the property, two on the south side and one to the west on Avalon Road.

A majority of the residents in attendance were vehemently against the Avalon entrance, citing additional traffic on an already-busy roadway.

“You need to stick with your egresses you already have in Hamilton Groves,” one woman said. “Because 1,000 more vehicles on Avalon — they’re going to go through our rural settlement.”

One resident asked if there was any way to do this project without the Avalon Road entrance.

“Have any of your site plans given that option of going south through the neighborhood?” he asked.

“Interconnectivity is big with Orange County, so when we had initial conversations, they wanted as much interconnectivity as possible,” Gentry said. “I don’t think the county will allow that.”

He added the county is conducting a traffic study on Avalon Road and will be considering widening measures.

One woman spoke in favor of keeping additional traffic off Avalon.

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 Sunday: 8, 9:30, & 11 AM., 4PM (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

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

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

Trujillo-Villa pointed out this is the beginning of the process for this project so the application is presently being reviewed and it has yet to go to hearing with the Development Review Committee.

The future land-use is proposed as Horizon West Town Center Urban Residential.

Home construction would begin in 12 to 18 months.

Other residents complained about the amount of sand they have to deal with from surrounding land that already has been cleared of many of its trees.

“We have so much land they’ve stripped down; there’s so much sand,” one resident said. “We deal with it every time there’s a storm. And you will add to it. We never had North winds because the trees were blocking. Now we having rains coming in our front door. And we’re also downhill from all this.”

Still another resident complained about the poorly placed traffic lights along County Road 545.

“People shouldn’t have to die for something to happen,” he said.

Janet Russek was vocal about her opposition to the proposed project.

“This little area — Avalon — we remember what this used to be like before the development,” she said. “Some of this property has been passed down from generation to generation. We didn’t plan our lives, and our children’s lives, to be so close to subdivisions we could throw a rock into it. At first we were annoyed, but now I think we’re angry.

“The noise, the anxiety, we’re being completely locked in,” Russek said. “Our lifestyle is changing drastically, and nobody cares. How about a nice clean piece of property, nothing fancy, so we can have a place to ride our horses. Our little park, our little recreation center.

“That piece of property that backs right up to us. … Nobody gives a crap about us.

That’s got to stop.”

Resident Kevin Horine has battled the county numerous times over surrounding development. He has dealt with earlymorning construction crews right outside his home for months on end. And now he’s concerned about the county allowing a different density than is proposed.

Gentry assured Horine the county must stay consistent with its density because of the property’s proximity to the rural settlement.

“Everything we’re doing is consistent with what has been approved all along,” Gentry said. “We’re not asking for anything else.”

Trujillo-Villa assured residents nothing will move forward until the necessary approvals are in place and it will be at least six months before a final public hearing takes place. She reminded residents in attendance that public input will be welcomed at a Planning & Zoning Commission meeting, which has not yet been set.

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

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8

TEXT

“MHM” TO 4 1 4 4 4 TO DONATE

This is a secure site for giving The current zoning for the land included in the proposed project is A-1 Citrus Rural District (top). The developer is seeking a PD Planned Development District (Village) to construct 184 single-family homes.

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

OrangeObserver.com

OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, MAY 12, 2022

9

ADVERTORIAL Ram Atmakuri will bring modern North Indian food to the Horizn West area.

ARE YOU

READY?

Annabelle Sikes

Lack of Indian food in Horizon West now a naan issue ANNABELLE SIKES STAFF WRITER

Horizon West residents looking for some authentic Indian cuisine are in luck.

Naan Stopp hosted a soft opening of its Windermere Village location Tuesday, May 10. Its grand opening will take place Friday, May 13.

The modern North Indian food concept will be authentic — but not too spicy — catering to the local palate with options for degree of spice and reasonable prices.

The eatery will be similar to A’TAJ Indian Restaurant in Celebration, owner Ram Atmakuri’s first food success in the United States. It will feature all the key Indian top sellers such as chicken tikka masala and butter chicken, with a dozen varieties of freshly baked Naan. It also will feature lamb, goat, fish, chicken and shrimp dishes, as well as beer and wine, both Indian and local.

CULTURE CONCEPT

Atmakuri’s passion for the hospitality industry began when he was a software engineer student in Russia.

He said there were not a lot of options when it came to quality Indian cuisine and other food choices were often limited.

Being deprived of good food, Atmakuri said if he ever saved enough money, he would open his own restaurant and offer the food he missed to his community.

Atmakuri moved in 1995 to the United States by himself to start his own small IT company, Success IT. Cooking and cleaning for just himself was a lot of work and took a lot of time, causing him to explore local food options that did not always satisfy his authentic Indian food cravings.

“My passion toward the food only grew day by day,” Atmakuri said. “I had to be financially independent first, and I just never lost that passion along the way on my journey.”

In 1997, Atmakuri met his wife and then had two daughters, one in 1999 and one in 2004. He said his family shared his passion for the food industry and helped him to build his first culinary success in India in 2011. Atmakuri said he was looking to do a Kentucky Fried Chicken concept in his small hometown, but the company was only expanding in the bigger parts of India.

Determined to continue to pursue his vision, Atmakuri started his own fried chicken concept, “American Fried Chicken.” He added spicier seasonings to cater toward the local palate, and the business was an instant rage.

In fewer than two years, AFC had more than 100 locations in India and is known as the biggest brand for fried chicken in the area behind KFC. In 2014, Atmakuri decided to sell the business when it hit 100 locations.

“It was taking up a lot of my personal time and keeping me away from my family,” he said. “My family was in the U.S., and I was constantly traveling back and forth.”

The Windermere resident said he nurtured his IT company at the time but never forgot about his passion for hospitality.

BUSINESS BOSS

In 2018, Atmakuri again found success in not one — but two — restaurants.

In the third quarter of 2018, he opened his first Indian restaurant in Celebration, A’TAJ Indian. The concept is known for its extraordinary combinations of flavors,

IF YOU GO NAAN STOPP ADDRESS: 5845 Winter Garden Vineland Road, Suite 130 WEBSITE: naanstopp.com PHONE: (407) 347-5487 HOURS: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and 5 to 10 p.m. daily

I

t is officially that time of year when Floridians begin stocking up on canned goods and non-perishables, flashlights and batteries, and a hearty supply of bottled water. Hurricane season waits for no one, so it is imperative for individuals to prepare early. Having a solid plan in place helps ease the unpredictability of storm season and, with Lake Apopka Natural Gas District (LANGD) by your side, you can ensure you and your loved ones will be well taken care of during a major storm.

The Atlantic Hurricane Season officially begins June 1, but since 2015, there has consistently been a named storm before the start of every season. Because of this, the National Hurricane Center (NHC) is debating whether to change the official start of the season from June 1 to May 15. At LANGD, we have always emphasized the importance of preparing for hurricane season sooner, rather than later. Although no official changes have been made thus far, perhaps this year more than ever it is important to plan ahead and prepare for a potentially busy storm season.

delicate seasonings, full-flavored spices, yogurt-based marinades and complex tastes.

In the fourth quarter of 2018, Atmakuri opened the first location of The French Cafe in Horizon West’s Hamlin Town Center.

“What excited me about that project is that we are making all of our products from scratch, so the quality and pricing can be controlled with lots of different food and beverage options,” he said.

What money he made from AFC was invested back into the Hamlin location, and with the help of his mentor and friend, the former owner of My French Cafe, the new cafe took off.

In January 2020, Atmakuri opened the second location of The French Cafe in Windermere Village. Then, the pandemic changed everything.

“Suddenly, you don’t have any revenue, and you are trying to find ways to keep your employees and ways to pay rent to keep the business running,” Atmakuri said.

NAAN STOPP

Although Atmakuri is the owner of two French cafes, many people still ask if he can recommend a good Indian restaurant.

The business owner said his A’TAJ staff suggested creating a platform for his team to grow and expand, but he was wondering where to do it with the Windermere Village plaza full and rent prices climbing.

Then, HUMBL closed in November 2021. Atmakuri acquired the space in February 2022.

Although the pandemic seems to be slowing down, he said his biggest challenge is still finding employees.

“Working habits of people have changed, and they want to be their own boss now,” he said. “They want to make their own hours, and opportunities like Uber give them a flexible schedule where they can spend more time with their families. It’s been hard to find quality staff.”

Moreover, costs have skyrocketed postpandemic. Atmakuri said he used to buy a case of chicken for $42. Now, it’s $158.

However, despite the current challenges, Atmakuri has high hopes and aims to provide the best he can in terms of quality of food and service for the community he has now come to call home.

“I want to give good quality modern Indian food to the local audience — our friends, our family, our neighbors,” he said. “That is a core value of mine and the very reason why we started this. We want to create something people can enjoy close to their home.”

According to Colorado State University, another above-average hurricane season is in the forecast for 2022, with at least 19 named storms and nine hurricanes – four of which are projected to be Category 3 or higher. Regardless of size, any hurricane has the potential to cause electric power outages and severe damage to your home or business, even if your community is not in the eye of the storm. Fortunately, LANGD customers can rest assured knowing that, even when the power goes out, they will be covered thanks to the direct use of a reliable, resilient and convenient energy source: natural gas.

The true beauty of natural gas is that it is delivered underground directly to your home, making it extremely dependable – especially during a storm. This is why so many essential services like hospitals, nursing homes and fire stations rely on natural gas to cook meals, keep their water hot and keep generators running.

Not only is natural gas cost-efficient, yielding an average savings of $879 per year; but it is also environmentally friendly. According to a recent article by Blue Flame Alliance, natural gas is the cleanest burning fossil fuel and helps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, emitting 50-60% less carbon dioxide than coal and 30% less than petroleum.

The peace of mind that comes with knowing you and your family are protected by natural gas is priceless. Don’t delay, formulate a plan and explore the potential for natural gas at your home now.

There are also many resources to take advantage of like FloridaDisaster.org, to ensure you have everything you need to safely ride out a storm.

Ready to make the safe choice and switch to natural gas ahead of hurricane season?

For more information on natural gas service for your home, business or vehicle, please contact the District marketing team at (407) 656-2734 x307, marketing@langd.org, or visit www.langd.org.

Already a customer and loving your natural gas hookup? Tell us all about it!

Email marketing@langd.org and share what you love about using natural gas in your home or business for a chance to be featured on LANGD’s Facebook page.

As always, be sure to like, follow and re-share LANGD’s content on Facebook at @LANGDFL.

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Naan Stopp opens its doors in Windermere Village this week.

THIS HURRICANE SEASON, RELY ON THE SAFETY OF NATURAL GAS

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OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, MAY 12, 2022

Getting down and Derby

Mireille Lexima Jackson, left, and Andrea Garwood wore their derby best to the league’s event.

Rick Bowes, left, Piper Bowes, Pam Simon, Stephen Simon, Crystal Hilliard, Melissa Mastroianni and Dom Mastroianni enjoyed a fun evening together.

RIGHT: Tammy Moore, left, Mike Lewandowski, Sonya Adams, Kristie Lewandowski and Susan Allmen welcomed guests to the Run for the Roses event hosted by the West Orange Junior Service League.

Emily Langley chose a theme of florals and butterflies for her derby hat.

B

Corey Balzer, left, Stacey Balzer, David Gilmore, Julie Swinarski and Eric Swinarski got together for a group photo.

NOW LEASING

Models Open Daily

right colors and fancy hats were the order of the day at the West Orange Junior Service League’s 12th annual Run for the Roses Derby, held Saturday, May 7, at the Ocoee Lakeshore Center. Fundraiser attendees browsed the silent-auction items, had fun posing at the photo booth, sipped adult beverages and tried their luck at the gambling tables — all to benefit organizations in the community.

Jerry and Kim Johnston dressed to the nines for the West Orange Junior Service League’s Run for the Roses event.

— AMY QUESINBERRY

Live the Inspired Life Dixie Makes a Move It was time that Dixie needed help and living alone was hard and often lonely. She just didn't feel like herself anymore. With her daughters encouragement, they visited Inspired Living.

They had no idea senior living was this nice and wonderful.

Dixie can have her own apartment decorated as she likes with photos of her grandkids everywhere. She doesn't need to worry anymore. She has a lot of things to do every day and friends to do it with. She eats delicious food and feels better.

She was able to get personalized assistance on her terms for the things that made her nervous doing alone. Her family also got peace of mind that Mom was not only safe but happy. As we often hear in senior living, Dixie wishes she had made this move sooner.

We take care of Moms and Dads

1061 Tomyn Blvd. Ocoee, FL 34761 www.InspiredLiving.care

Florida Resort-Style Assisted Living and Memory Care

ALF #AL12906

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407.890.0648

Professional Chef All-Day Dining Thrive Activities Fitness Center Salon and Spa Pool and Tiki Bar Putting Green Transportation Housekeeping

REAL ESTATE

OrangeObserver.com

OBSERVER

|

THURSDAY, MAY 12, 2022

11

Keene’s Pointe estate sells for $2.36 million A

home in the Keene’s

RUBY LAKE

all West Orange-area

The home at 10957 Lemon Lake Blvd., Orlando, sold May 2, for $1,135,000. Built in 2019, it has seven bedrooms, five baths and 4,510 square feet of living area.

Days on market: Eight.

residential real-estate

SAND LAKE POINT

Pointe community

in Windermere topped

The home at 9728 Wyland

The home at 7524 Lindenhurst Drive, Orlando, sold May 4, for $700,700. Built in 1995, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,427 square feet of living area. Days on market: Six.

Court, Windermere, sold

SAND LAKE SOUND

transactions from April 30 to May 6.

May 2, for $2.36 million.

Built in 2002, it has five bedrooms, four baths and

realtor.com

The home at 9728 Wyland Court, Windermere, sold May 2, for $2.36 million. This home features views of the 18th hole of the Jack Nicklaus Signature Course in Keene’s Pointe.

4,723 square feet of living area. Days on market: Nine.

These are the highest-

BELLA NOTTE AT VIZCAYA

The townhouse at 8218 Via Verona, Orlando, sold May 6, for $490,000. Built in 2003, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 2,010 square feet of living area. Days on market: Eight.

selling homes in each community in West Orange.

CYPRESS ISLE

The home at 10205 Trout Lane, Orlando, sold May 2, for $800,000. Built in 1992, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,743 square feet of living area.

Days on market: Four.

DR. PHILLIPS BAY PARK

The home at 8051 Rural Retreat Court, Orlando, sold May 6, for $690,000. Built in 1989, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,821 square feet of living area.

Days on market: Five.

BAY VISTA ESTATES

DIAMOND COVE

The home at 9745 Sibley Circle, Orlando, sold May 4, for $715,000. Built in 1992, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,577 square feet of living area. Days on market: Two.

The home at 10224 Facet Court, Orlando, sold May 2, for $625,000. Built in 1995, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 2,190 square feet of living area. Days on market: Five.

The home at 10443 Brilliant Court, Orlando, sold May 6, for $600,000. Built in 1996, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,317 square feet of living area.

Days on market: Four.

LAKE CANE ESTATES

The home at 7013 Delora Drive, Orlando, sold May 2, for $498,000.

Built in 1972, it has five bedrooms, three baths and 1,953 square feet of living area. Days on market: Three.

LAKE MARSHA

SNAPSHOT Total Sales: 72 High Sale Price: 2.36 million Low Sale Price: $146,500

The home at 7322 Grace Road, Orlando, sold May 2, for $850,000. Built in 1981, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,061 square feet of living area.

Days on market: Four.

The home at 7443 Sparkling Lake Road, Orlando, sold May 4, for $550,000. Built in 1987, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,535 square feet of living area. Days on market: 23.

ORANGE BAY

The home at 6609 Edgeworth Drive, Orlando, sold May 5, for $470,000. Built in 1987, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,538 square feet of living area.

Days on market: 18.

The home at 6351 Orange Bay Ave., Orlando, sold May 5, for $413,000. Built in 1982, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 1,668 square feet of living area. Days on market: 24.

ORANGE TREE COUNTRY CLUB

The home at 6158 Crystal View Drive, Orlando, sold May 2, for $675,000. Built in 1989, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,449 square feet of living area. Days on market: Three.

PHILLIPS GROVE

The home at 7887 Wandering Way, Orlando, sold May 3, for $1.2 million. Built in 2019, it has seven bedrooms, five baths and 4,354 square feet of living area. Days on market: 13.

The townhouse at 6060 Bimini Twist Loop, Orlando, sold May 6, for $680,000. Built in 2020, it has four bedrooms, two baths, two half-baths and 2,321 square feet of living area. Days on market: 16.

SAND LAKE VILLAGE

The condo at 10274 Turkey Lake Road, No. 148, Orlando, sold May 2, for $154,000. Built in 1984, it has one bedroom, one-and-onehalf baths and 745 square feet of living area. Days on market: 24.

TOREY PINES

The home at 5207 Timberview Terrace, Orlando, sold May 6, for $845,000. Built in 1989, it has four bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 3,079 square feet of living area. Days on market: Four.

TOSCANA

The townhouse at 6938 Piazza St., Orlando, sold May 6, for $510,000. Built in 2005, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 2,489 square feet of living area. Days on market: Three.

WINDHOVER

The townhouse at 6258 Peregrine Court, Orlando, sold May 2, for $325,000. Built in 1988, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 1,507 square feet of living area. Days on market: Four.

SEE REAL ESTATE PAGE 12

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.

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but our gratitude is endless

OBSERVER

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OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, MAY 12, 2022

OASIS COVE II

REAL ESTATE

The condo at 14211 Desert Haven St., Windermere, sold May 2, for $390,000. Built in 2012, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 1,840 square feet of living area. Days on market: Seven.

SUMMERLAKE

The home at 15119 Piping Plover St., Winter Garden, sold May 4, for $565,000. Built in 2018, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 2,154 square feet of living area. Days on market: Five.

WATERLEIGH

The home at 9659 Lost Creek Drive, Winter Garden, sold May 2, for $850,000. Built in 2020, it has five bedrooms, four-and-onehalf baths and 3,227 square feet of living area. Days on market: 23. realtor.com

WATERMARK

The home at 10118 Colt Lane, Winter Garden, sold May 3, for $2.65 million. It was the largest transaction in the Horizon West area from April 30 to May 6.

AVALON HILLS

The home at 10118 Colt Lane, Winter Garden, sold May 3, for $2.65 million. Built in 2019, it has five bedrooms, four baths, two half-baths and 6,302 square feet of living area. Days on market: 117.

HAMLIN RESERVE

The home at 6179 Hamlin Reserve Blvd., Winter Garden, sold May 4, for $745,000. Built in 2018, it has four bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 3,093 square feet of living area. Days on market: Seven.

HICKORY HAMMOCK

The home at 16194 Johns Lake Overlook Drive, Winter Garden, sold May 4, for $1,587,000. Built in 2014, it has four bedrooms, five-and-one-half baths and 3,395 square feet of living area.

The home at 7793 Freestyle Lane, Winter Garden, sold May 2, for $1,310,000. Built in 2015, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 3,326 square feet of living area.

Days on market: Four.

The home at 16005 Johns Lake Overlook Drive, Winter Garden, sold May 2, for $850,000. Built in 2015, it has five bedrooms, fourand-one-half baths and 3,526 square feet of living area. Days on market: Three.

INDEPENDENCE/SIGNATURE LAKES

The home at 5642 Water Pier Lane, Winter Garden, sold May 4, for $520,000. Built in 2014, it has four bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 2,578 square feet of living area.

The home at 15153 Bridgewater Crossings Blvd., Winter Garden, sold May 2, for $510,000. Built in 2017, it has three bedrooms, twoand-one-half baths and 2,215 square feet of living area. Days on market: Five.

The townhouse at 5457 New Independence Parkway, Winter Garden, sold May 4, for $415,000. Built in 2012, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 1,766 square feet of living area. Days on market: Three.

LAKE BURDEN SOUTH

The townhouse at 11429 Brownstone St., Windermere, sold May 4, for $450,000. Built in 2014, it has four bedrooms, twoand-one-half baths and 1,936 square feet of living area. Days on market: Five.

LAKE REAMS TOWNHOMES

The townhouse at 8642 Brookvale Drive, Windermere, sold May 3, for $385,000. Built in 2013, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 1,480 square feet of living area. Days on market: Seven.

WESTSIDE VILLAGE

The home at 7897 Berkshire Oak Alley, Windermere, sold May 5, for $551,000. Built in 2017, it has four bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 2,188 square feet of living area. Days on market: Three.

The home at 5512 Orange Orchard Drive, Winter Garden, sold May 2, for $830,000. Built in 2020, it has five bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 3,072 square feet of living area. Days on market: Two.

OCOEE

ADMIRAL POINTE

The home at 1081 Coastal Circle, Ocoee, sold May 6, for $862,000.

Built in 2000, it has five bedrooms, four baths and 2,927 square feet of living area. Days on market: Six. BORDEAUX

The condo at 1980 Erving Circle, No. 111, Ocoee, sold May 4, for $174,995. Built in 2001, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,158 square feet of living area.

BROOKSTONE

The home at 153 Covered Bridge Drive, Ocoee, sold May 6, for $610,000. Built in 2000, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,893 square feet of living area.

Days on market: Two. FOREST OAKS

The home at 1621 Prairie Lake Blvd., Ocoee, sold May 5, for $365,000. Built in 1985, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,851 square feet of living area.

Days on market: Two.

LAKE SAWYER SOUTH

The home at 13272 Roxboro Road, Windermere, sold May 2, for $655,000. Built in 2008, it has four bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 2,469 square feet of living area. Days on market: Four.

LAKES OF WINDERMERE

The home at 12660 Cragside Lane, Windermere, sold May 6, for $575,000. Built in 2004, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,377 square feet of living area.

Days on market: Five.

realtor.com

The home at 7887 Wandering Way, Orlando, sold May 3, for $1.2 million. It was the largest transaction in Dr. Phillips from April 30 to May 6.

CITY OF

DEN R A G R E WINT IS HIRING

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.

367909-1

HORIZON WEST

The home at 9210 Woodcrane Drive, Winter Garden, sold May 5, for $1,235,000. Built in 2016, it has five bedrooms, four baths, two half-baths and 4,329 square feet of living area. Days on market: Four.

WINCEY GROVES

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OrangeObserver.com

OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, MAY 12, 2022

13

FORESTBROOKE

The home at 3312 Atmore Terrace, Ocoee, sold May 2, for $565,000.

Built in 2006, it has five bedrooms, three baths and 3,099 square feet of living area. Days on market: Five.

The home at 2119 Oakington St., Winter Garden, sold May 2, for $460,000. Built in 2002, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,632 square feet of living area. Days on market: Two.

PEACH LAKE MANOR

SUNSET LAKES

The home at 1007 Jamela Drive, Ocoee, sold May 5, for $240,000.

Built in 1959, it has three bedrooms, one bath and 1,111 square feet of living area. Days on market: Six.

The home at 13476 Sunset Lakes Circle, Winter Garden, sold May 2, for $1.35 million. Built in 1999, it has five bedrooms, four baths and 4,379 square feet of living area.

Days on market: 44.

PRAIRIE LAKE RESERVE

The townhouse at 2096 Switch Grass Circle, Ocoee, sold May 3, for $285,000. Built in 2010, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,228 square feet of living area. Days on market: One.

TUCKER OAKS

The condo at 15316 Oak Apple Court, Unit B, Winter Garden, sold May 5, for $297,000. Built in 2008, it has three bedrooms, two-andone-half baths and 1,544 square feet of living area. Days on market: Three.

PRAIRIE MEADOWS

The townhouse at 2068 Milkweed St., Ocoee, sold May 6, for $330,000. Built in 2021, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,485 square feet of living area.

Days on market: Nine.

SILVER BEND

The home at 2406 Alclobe Circle, Ocoee, sold May 2, for $410,000.

Built in 1994, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,712 square feet of living area. Days on market: One. VERONICA PLACE

The home at 826 Veronica Circle, Ocoee, sold May 6, for $415,000.

Built in 1998, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,409 square feet of living area. Days on market: Six. VILLAGES OF WESMERE

The home at 2088 Velvet Leaf Drive, Ocoee, sold May 6, for $410,000.

Built in 2012, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,752 square feet of living area. Days on market: Three.

WEST ORANGE CASA DEL LAGO

The home at 12223 Montalcino Circle, Windermere, sold May 4, for $1.44 million. Built in 2015, it has four bedrooms, four baths, two half-baths and 3,865 square feet of living area. Days on market: Three.

realtor.com

The home at 1081 Coastal Circle, Ocoee, sold May 6, for $862,000 — the largest transaction in Ocoee from April 30 to May 6.

WINDERMERE

WINDERMERE

BELMERE VILLAGE

The home at 11731 Bella Milano Court, Windermere, sold May 3, for $650,000. Built in 2005, it has five bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 2,497 square feet of living area. Days on market: Five.

KEENE’S POINTE

The home at 9728 Wyland Court, Windermere, sold May 2, for $2.36 million. Built in 2002, it has five bedrooms, four baths and 4,723 square feet. Days on market: Nine.

The home at 6119 Foxfield Court, Windermere, sold May 2, for $1.47 million. Built in 2001, it has three bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 3,244 square feet. Days on market: Four.

LAKE DOWN SHORES

The home at 2739 Midsummer Drive, Windermere, sold May 5, for $2.15 million. Built in 1984, it has four bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 3,452 square feet of living area. Days on market: 415.

The home at 1978 Windermere Road, Windermere, sold May 6, for $950,000. Built in 2004, it has five bedrooms, five baths, two half-baths and 4,484 square feet of living area. Days on market: 13.

WINTER GARDEN

ROPER RESERVE

The home at 444 Wrangler Road, Winter Garden, sold May 6, for $670,000. Built in 2019, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 2,850 square feet of living area. Days on market: Five.

The townhouse at 13452 Daniels Landing Circle, Winter Garden, sold May 3, for $305,000. Built in 2005, it has two bedrooms, twoand-one-half baths and 1,145 square feet of living area. Days on market: Six. LAKEVIEW PRESERVE

The home at 3395 Current Ave., Winter Garden, sold May 6, for $695,000. Built in 2020, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 2,741 square feet of living area. Days on market: Four.

OXFORD CHASE

The home at 17196 Ocean Hill Drive, Winter Garden, sold May 3, for $671,000. Built in 2018, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 2,613 square feet of living area. Days on market: Three.

WESTPOINT TOWNHOMES

The home at 16876 Sanctuary Drive, Winter Garden, sold May 2, for $1.5 million. Built in 2019, it has five bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths and 4,532 square feet of living area.

The townhouse at 539 Westpoint Garden Circle, Winter Garden, sold May 4, for $315,000. Built in 2006, it has three bedrooms, two-andone-half baths and 1,588 square feet of living area. Days on market: Four.

STONE CREEK

WESTSIDE TOWNHOMES

STONEYBROOK WEST

The townhouse at 1012 Westside Drive, Winter Garden, sold May 6, for $146,500. Built in 1986, it has one bedroom, one bath and 639 square feet of living area. Days on market: Four.

SANCTUARY AT TWIN WATERS

DANIELS LANDING

WATERSIDE AT JOHNS LAKE

The home at 15321 Harrowgate Way, Winter Garden, sold May 3, for $445,000. Built in 2003, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,812 square feet of living area.

Days on market: Two. The home at 15420 Pebble Ridge St., Winter Garden, sold May 5, for $565,000. Built in 2001, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,244 square feet of living area. Days on market: Nine.

The townhouse at 925 Butterfly Blvd., Winter Garden, sold May 4, for $222,000. Built in 1990, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 938 square feet of living area. Days on market: Three.

r a e Y w e N it’s Time to $ave The home at 668 Oxford Chase Drive, Winter Garden, sold May 6, for $1,060,000. Built in 2018, it has five bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths and 4,721 square feet of living area. Days on market: Two.

Fall is coming

WILLOWS AT LAKE RHEA

The home at 11359 Willow Gardens Drive, Windermere, sold May 6, for $900,000. Built in 1990, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,968 square feet. Days on market: Three.

The home at 13747 Fox Glove St., Winter Garden, sold May 6, for $535,000. Built in 2004, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,155 square feet of living area. Days on market: Five.

WINTER OAKS

The home at 215 Autumn Oaks Loop, Winter Garden, sold May 2, for $504,000. Built in 2005, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,232 square feet of living area. Days on market: Four.

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W EST O RANG E HISTO RY

OBSERVER

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OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, MAY 12, 2022

THESE OLD TIMES

FROM THE WINTER GARDEN HERITAGE FOUNDATION

THROWBACK THURSDAY MAY 15, 1942 There were bargains galore at the Cappleman Brothers Grocery store in downtown Winter Garden. The business advertised its weekly specials in The West Orange News so shoppers knew the deals ahead of time. The establishment was located at 60 W. Plant St., where Vintage Sky Salon operates today. Customers could order their groceries before a movie started at the local theater and have them ready to pick up after the show — or the goods could be delivered. This store allowed shoppers to pay on credit. Daily deliveries were made in the immediate Winter Garden area only. Once a week employees delivered to the Gotha and Windermere areas.

85 years ago

The Beulah School was having a long-wanted need filled in the shape of a school lunchroom.

80 years ago

One of the nicest gestures on Mother’s Day was a call home to Mother, and Lena Story, who was residing in Monroe, Louisiana, made a long-distance call to her mother, Mrs. Mattie J. Story.

Waste paper being stored in the building next to Tarbuttons Dime Store was to be carried away. Mrs. D. Fleming asked the public to refrain from dumping the paper on the sidewalk and leaving it there. The key was kept in the Home Frock Shoppe and was available any time during the day.

55 years ago

Bob Hinson, Lakeview student and member of the FFA, was the guest speaker at the Winter Garden Lions Club. Jerry Carris was in charge of the program and noted that Hinson was a candidate for the State Farmer’s Degree.

Hal Bekemeyer and Lisa Kendrick were the winners in the annual Jaycees Road-E-O. The competition was open to teenagers younger than 19 and consisted of a written exam and a skill-driving course.

FROM THE ARCHIVES Temperatures already are reaching the high 90s, so what better lazy activity is there to indulge in than a round of fishing? The photograph shows the boat sheds at Tom’s Fishing Camp on the Montverde side of Lake Apopka. At one point there were two dozen fishing camps located around the lake’s perimeter, helping it to earn its name as the “large-mouth bass capital of the world.” So many anglers flocked to the region that a new hotel in Winter Garden — the Edgewater — was built expressly to accommodate them.

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.

Ken Rushing was selected from a pool of more than 26 candidates and appointed Winter Garden postmaster. The West Orange County native graduated in 1977 from West Orange High School.

20 years ago

The city of Winter Garden celebrated the beginning of the $4.5 million downtown renovation project with a groundbreaking ceremony. Digging their shovels into the ground were Mayor Jack Quesinberry; commissioners John Harriman and Theo Graham; City Manager Hollis Holden; Assistant City Manager Marshall Robertson; Bruce Hall; Larry Foor; and Robert Lacey.

The city of Ocoee held the 17th annual Big Orange Games for the Physically Challenged with more than 75 athletes The First United Methodist Church of Winter Garden recognized Sue Norton for her dedication to the baby nursery for more than 30 years. A bronze plaque was placed at the door to the nursery officially naming it in her honor.

crossword

celebrity cipher

UNREAL! by Tracy Gray and Tom Pepper. Edited by David Steinberg 62 The “M” of STEM 65 Paste in Japanese 1 Decides (to) cuisine 2 Building restoration, for 66 Rack up short 68 Get very emotional 3 Screenwriter ___ Rogers 69 Integral to St. Johns 70 Turn down 4 Written defamation 71 “Waiting for ___” (Beck5 One might be poached ett play) 6 Triangle side 72 Intense anger 7 “Continue!”

73 Venus, to Serena, 8 Palindromic Italian informally number 74 Crab shack wear 9 Here-there link 78 Accelerators 10 Corp. $$$ overseer 80 Rower’s implement 11 Insurer with a spokes81 They’re seen hanging at duck some parties 12 Freeloader 83 ___ pal (female friend) 13 NBC anchor Holt 84 Before, to a bard 14 Establishments with 86 Accident responders benches and stools (Abbr.)

15 Fish-chips link 89 Hot sandwich 16 “Peanuts” pooch 90 Lessen, as pain 17 Angry tweetstorm 93 “Marvin ___” (2015 hit) 18 Shtetl busybody 95 Angsty music genre 24 Quran’s religion 96 Distress call letters 25 Some ACT takers 97 Island west of Maui 30 Lena of “Chocolat” 98 Clinch 33 Recover 99 Like a driving instructor 34 Minestrone pasta, getting ticketed perhaps 100 “For real?”

35 It may be wireless 103 Kids around 36 Sun’s path, seemingly 104 Actor Hawke 37 Seized property, slangily 105 “Country Again” singer 39 “Journey” you take by Thomas yourself 106 Neighbor of India 41 Celebrity news site (Abbr.)

42 Clod-busting tool 107 Word before “squeeze” 43 Appropriates, as funds or “schedule” 44 Bless with oil 108 74-Across’ bestie 45 Grp. such as World 109 Big name in tractors Vision India 112 “Got it!”

46 Roomba, e.g.

114 Scott who sued for 47 Mother ___ (our home) freedom 52 High flyers 116 Snitch 54 Lost person’s question 118 Personal racer in 55 Union fees “Mario Kart 8” 56 “Uh-huh!”

119 Humerus’s limb 58 Cul-de-___ 120 Wayne and Garth, for 60 “Start playing,” to a one bandleader 121 Pigs’ digs

DOWN

©2022 Universal Uclick

ACROSS

38 Prefix for “nautical” 39 Make a typo, say 1 Of the mouth 40 Chophouse cut 5 Caribou’s kin 41 ... about contestants 8 At the ready navigating a gigantic corn 14 Sickly white maze?

19 Mani’s mate 48 Forty winks 20 “I’ll be!”

49 Zombie’s sound 21 Heath bar base 50 Photo finish?

22 Concave navel 23 Reality show “remake” 51 Tree with acorns about aspiring actors who 53 Rambunctious 57 Binary digits won’t settle for bit parts?

59 One may wear black 26 Add sequins to, say lipstick 27 Black Friday events 61 Sombrero features 28 In favor of 63 Shade 29 Follow, as a tip 64 Dolphins’ home 31 Cheerios grain 67 Lasagna cheese 32 They rarely pass to 69 Chick’s chirp teammates 70 ... about choreographic 35 ... about a single guy whose dates aren’t private? pairs dressed like Romanov

rulers?

74 Muppet with a unibrow 75 Fall sign 76 English county 77 Tats 78 Cheese that may be smoked 79 Boxing bout enders, briefly 82 ___ fright 85 How ocean liners travel 87 Go bad 88 Words on Alice’s cake 91 Congresswoman Ilhan 92 Umami enhancer, for short 94 ... about people investigating an Area 51 conspiracy theory?

98 Make no changes 101 Beatle’s hairdo

102 “Frozen” queen 103 ... about meetups at a Hoboken sub shop?

106 Protected against competitors, in a way 110 Environmental prefix 111 “Till ___ do us part” 112 Kid-lit’s Sam-___ 113 Was broadcast 115 Jazz great who claimed to be from Saturn 117 ... about a superhero’s crusade to teach ASL? 122 Test run 123 The Onion genre 124 Same old routine 125 Bring on board 126 Splinter groups 127 Punctual 128 Tempeh protein 129 Ticked (off)

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

Each letter in the cipher stands for another.

“L IVAY KIY MYXK SNM LW KIY ENJHO: L FJYKYWO CNJ V HLALWU. TNB DVW’K UYK KNN FJYDLNBX VMNBK KIVK.” – JNXVJLN OVEXNW

“GPX LSRPG GM AX SLLXEDMBESAFX TBO EGZDSO SE EMJXGPSBR S PMFO WXLC OXTL. TBO FZNVSFC SG SE EMJXGPSBR S OM IXFF.”

– AMBM

“NVXXYRBFNJ FN IYNKXVSKFPY, AVK FK IYNKXHCN HZBC DURK FK SHZNFIYXN KH AY NURSLBYN BFJFKFZT HVX – NRBPRIHX IRBF

PFNFHZ.”

Puzzle Three Clue: T equals G

30 years ago

Carolyn Cappleman, principal of Palm Lake Elementary, was named the National Distinguished Principal for the state of Florida.

This was the second consecutive year a West Orange County principal received the honor.

Windermere Elementary principal Nick Gledich earned the honor the prior year.

Puzzle Two Clue: N equals C

John Vick was elected president of the Lake Highland Preparatory student body for the following year.

Puzzle One Clue: C equals F

45 years ago

© 2022 NEA, Inc.

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

©2022 Andrews McMeel Syndicate

5-12-22

OrangeObserver.com

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THURSDAY, MAY 12, 2022

15

Get To Know Edgewood: Edgewood Children’s Ranch is a Christian residential program and accredited school providing emotional and spiritual healing for children displaying negative social behaviours.

We provide a loving environment where kids can learn to thrive and succeed in life and where families can nd healing.

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Proudly serving West Orange for over 40 years.

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PE coach Brian Bruton splashed down numerous times as students hit the target on the dunk tank.

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alm Lake Elementary families enjoyed an evening of fun Friday, April 29, at the Bobcat Carnival. The school field was full of inflatable slides and games, including Horse Derby and a soccer challenge. Bobcat dads and PE coach Brian Bruton took turns getting wet in the dunk tank, balloon artists and a deejay playing lively dance music entertained attendees, and food trucks offered meals and treats.

CONGRATS

Adi-Sade Crawford took off from the Horse Derby corral.

CLASS OF 2022

— AMY QUESINBERRY

Maria Fretas giggled as Eva Tom worked fast with the roll of toilet paper in the wrapping contest.

COMING THURSDAY, MAY 19

A look of delight crossed Valentina Desedas’ face as she headed down the inflatable slide.

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OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, MAY 12, 2022

INFLUENCER OF THE WEEK

OBSERVER

30% OFF FIRST TWO MONTHS VISIT YOUR LOCAL Y! ROPER YMCA 100 Windermere Rd Winter Garden, FL 34787 407-656-8816

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LILIA WHITEHOUSE

WATER SPRING ELEMENTARY Lilia Whitehouse is a science teacher at Water Spring Elementary. She is in charge of teaching science to four different classes of fifth-graders. In addition, she also sponsors the school’s Garden Club and manages the edible garden and the butterfly garden. Whitehouse was recognized recently as an Orange County Public Schools Hero Teacher.

What brought you to your school?

I saw that Water Spring Elementary was hiring its inaugural staff, and I was interested in starting at a brandnew school.

What do you love most about your school?

It is very hard to pick one thing! We have a supportive administration, student-focused staff and a wonderful community.

What is your motivation?

Our students! Every day they motivate me to learn more and be the best I can be.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

The most rewarding part of my job is watching my students grow. Being a fifth-grade teacher, it is incredibly rewarding to watch them find their voice and carve their own place in the world.

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What do you like to do in your spare time?

In my free time I enjoy reading, dancing and hiking.

Who was your favorite teacher when you were in school? Why? My sixth-grade teacher, Mrs. Kennedy, saw my “quirks” as gifts and encouraged me to dive into my interests and find ways to blend them into my education. Instead of scolding me for writing stories and poems, she

REPORT CARD

POSITION: Science teacher TIME AT SCHOOL: Three years TIME WITH OCPS: Five years

entered them in contests, encouraged my writing and shared my work with others.

When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up? Why? When I was younger, I wanted to be a marine biologist, because I loved the ocean and water. As I grew older, I realized that I enjoyed these things more as hobbies.

What is your favorite children’s book and why?

“Tuck Everlasting” was my favorite book as a child. It was the first time I read something that used such beautiful figurative language, and it was my first taste of magic realism, my favorite genre.

What are your hobbies?

In my spare time, I play video games, hike, read, bake and take ballet classes.

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

I would love the ability to speak every language.

NOMINATE YOUR INFLUENCER Do you have an “unsung hero” 379095-1

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16

OrangeObserver.com

OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, MAY 12, 2022

OBSERVER SCHOOL ZONE FROM OPPOSITE PAGE

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

It is very difficult for me to choose just three, but it would be any that I could dance to.

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

Any favorite snacks or special treats you remember?

My go-to lunch was avocado and tomato sandwiches. They are still a favorite. My mom was an avid baker and would always include a sweet treat in my lunch.

Courtesy photos

Leanne Rexford putting her Belt Buddy 2.0 to use.

What is your favorite holiday and why?

Halloween! I love dressing up and making costumes with my partner each year.

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

Are you still in touch?

I have three friends I’ve known for almost 30 years. We met at age 4 at ice-skating class, Girl Scouts and school. Despite living in three different states, we are all still very close and plan yearly trips together.

What were your extracurricular activities as a student? Did you win any accolades or honors?

I was very busy as a student!

In school, I was involved in speech, theater and crew, the newspaper, and student council.

I was also on the swim team, badminton, track and field, and was a cheerleader.

What does it mean to you to be selected as an OCPS Hero Teacher?

It was a big surprise but I am incredibly grateful. To me, it means that I am doing all I can to support and educate my students.

— ANNABELLE SIKES

Franco Frazzetta, left, Leanne Rexford, Erma Brathwaite-LaMotta, Valeria Aviles, Natalie Maragliano, Jaycee Moser, Jordan McIlwain and Dr. Leigh Austin, director of ESE transition.

Windermere High wins state Project Venture competition AMY QUESINBERRY COMMUNITY EDITOR

Students in the High School High Tech team at Windermere High are celebrating a state win after taking first place in the Project Venture competition.

The students of Erma BrathwaiteLaMotta developed the Belt Buddy, a seatbelt accessory that relays messages in emergencies or shares a fun or inspiring message.

The Able Trust High School High Tech is a transition-planning class that provides high school students with disabilities the opportunity

to explore jobs or post-secondary education and prepares them for life after high school. This is the fourth year for it at Windermere.

The class comprises sophomores, juniors and seniors who already have taken a learning strategies class for one year.

“As part of our HSHT program, students are encouraged as a group to do a school-based enterprise, and it’s really to give students background on the world of work,” Brathwaite-LaMotta said. “We have kids who are employed, and we have kiddos who aren’t, and they can’t for various reasons. But in school-based

enterprise, they can get experience in work.

“They had to come up with a business, come up with a product, submit a business plan; they had to create a commercial, and then after that they had to create this presentation about the product,” Brathwaite-LaMotta said. “So, before the judges even saw all of that, there were other people from the class who were working.

“It really gives them good experience,” she said. “You have a sales team, production team, marketing team, accounting team, all these different levels of students.

It gives them an experience you would get if you had a regular job.

There are kids who like working with computers, so they can create the logo. Everybody has their job.”

The five students who were on the presentation team were Valeria Aviles, Lindsey Folco, Natalie Maragliano, Jordan McIlwain and Jaycee Moser. But it took more than just those five to make the project work.

Other students who assisted with

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Belt Buddy are Matthew Turchin, Reggie Martin, Sebastian PerezIntriago, Keagan Gonsalves and Caroline Kopelousos.

The first prototype was made of paper, laminated and attached to the seatbelt with Velcro. For the 2.0 version, Brathwaite-LaMotta said they went a step further, visiting a fabric store and discovering a neoprene fabric that would work better for ironing on the desired letters. One student suggested putting a survey on social media, and this garnered about 500 responses.

“What impressed the judges (were) the testimonials from the parents and our first responders and law enforcement,” Brathwaite-LaMotta said. “That’s what really put us over.”

She said she is grateful for Leanne Rexford and Franco Frazzetta and their assistance during the monthslong process.

The first-place prize included $1,000 for the program, which will help fund the school-based enterprise for the next school year.

PRESENTATION

To watch the students’ presentation on Belt Buddy, visit youtu.be/eNwGQXySbWg.

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OBSERVER

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OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, MAY 12, 2022

BRAINFOOD Dim sum good eats! I Michael Eng // Editor and Publisher In celebration of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, this edition of Brain Food is all about dim sum!

“Dim sum” is a Cantonese word that means “touch the heart,” and that’s just what this food is supposed to do! Dim sum is not one dish but rather a collection of small dishes usually served for brunch. For Chinese families, dim sum often is enjoyed as a celebration — think birthdays, graduations and reunions. In some restaurants, servers push carts filled with

SIU MAI

One of the most traditional of all dim sum dishes, siu mai is a traditional steamed Chinese dumpling. These dumplings are filled with steamed pork and shrimp, along with other ingredients such as ginger, shiitake mushrooms and scallions. All of the ingredients are wrapped inside a circular dumpling skin, and the dumplings are served in a bamboo or stainless steel steamer in groups of four. Make sure you ask for several orders of these — they’re always a crowd-pleaser!

CHA SIU BAO

Have you ever had a barbecue pork sandwich? Well, this is the Cantonese version of that! These barbecue pork buns (bao) are made with a white, fluffy dough and filled with sweet barbecue pork — cha siu.

For those who aren’t big fans of seafood, these baos are an easy favorite.

And they’re particularly popular with kids.

RECOMMENDED READING

HOW TO HOLD CHOPSTICKS

Yes, you can ask for a fork at dim sum restaurants, but it’s much more fun to try using chopsticks! Also, because most of the dishes come in bitesized morsels already, dim sum is the perfect time to practice.

SESAME BALLS

These fried dough balls are among the most beautiful — and sweetest — of all dim sum dishes. Made of glutinous rice flour and covered with sesame seeds, these balls are filled with a sweet paste made of either lotus or black beans. The dough is crisp on the outside but gives way to a chewy texture underneath. In Chinese, these are called jian dui, but most restaurants simply refer to them as sesame balls.

HAR GOW

This dumpling is a perfect complement to the siu mai. Like siu mai, this shrimp dumpling often is served in groups of four in bamboo or stainless steel steamers.

However, unlike siu mai, which are open-face, the har gow filling is completely incased in a translucent dumpling skin. That skin is so recognizable that some call this dish “crystal shrimp dumpling.” Again, you’ll want several orders of these!

1.

Pick up one chopstick and place it in the web of your hand between your thumb and index finger. Pinch it with your web and then support it using your ring and pinky fingers.

This stick should remain still and becomes the “bottom” of your two chopsticks.

2.

Pick up the second chopstick and place it between your thumb and index finger — like you would hold a pencil. You can place your middle finger on this chopstick to steady it, as well. Pro tip: Make sure the back of that second chopstick is positioned an inch or two away from the first one. This will give you the room you need for the next step.

EGG TART

These miniature pies — with their signature deep-yellow filling — taste as good as they look. The pie crust is flaky and buttery, pricing the perfect contrast to the smooth, sweet egg custard filling.

In addition to dim sum, these can be found at Chinese bakeries and are the perfect end to your dim sum meal!

3.

With both chopsticks in place, you can now use your index and middle fingers to move that chopstick up and down, allowing you to pinch and hold food.

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Of course, cuisine is just one way to celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. If you want to learn more, our friends at Orange County Library System recommend these books — all available through your local library!

NON-FICTION n Awesome Asian Americans: 20 Stars Who Made America Amazing by Phil Amara and Oliver Chin; illustrated by Juan Calle n Adventures in Asian Art: An Afternoon at the Museum by Sue DiCicco with Deborah Clearwaters and the Asian Art Museum ChongMoon Lee Center for Asian Art and Culture FICTION n Dream, Annie, Dream by Waka T. Brown n Maizy Chen’s Last Chance by Lisa Yee

dishes around the dining room, which allows diners to see and choose their food. The dishes are meant to be shared among everyone at the table over long conversations while enjoying one another’s company. Here in Central Florida, we’re lucky to have lots of restaurants that offer dim sum. If you’re looking for a new dining experience, dim sum is a great option. And to get you started, here are some of the most popular — and delicious — dishes available at any dim sum restaurant!

Illustration by Lindsay Cannizzaro // Senior Graphic Designer

MAY 12, 2022

SPORTS HIGH

Windermere High’s Andres Giron was crowned state champion at the Class 3A boys weightlifting state championships. Page 20.

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Three West Orange High School lacrosse players were named to the All-Metro team Friday, April 27. Senior and fouryear varsity starter Justin Burbano also was named to the U.S. Lacrosse Academic All-American. Burbano is a team co-captain and will be playing lacrosse at Florida Atlantic University next season. Junior and second-year varsity starter Jack Gray also is a team co-captain and a two-time team MVP. Ryan Wheeler is a third-year varsity starter and a team co-captain.

Windermere High School’s softball team fought hard and walked away with the district championship title.

TWICE AS NICE

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Windermere High School junior Luke Ellenback won the FHSAA Class 4A, Region 3 championship meet in the pole vault discipline after clearing 3.90 meters May 7 at Boone High School.

3

The Horizon West softball team played Rockledge High School in the FHSAA 4A regional quarterfinals Wednesday, May 11, after press time. If the Hawks win, the girls will move on to the regional semifinal May 17.

4

Windermere Prep Tyler Simmons placed second at the FHSAA track and field Class 2A state qualifier in the shot put, qualifying for the state championships that will take place May 11-14 in Gainesville. In the 4x800 meter category, Lorenzo Allwood, Dean Shuffield, Brant Josephs and Patrick Holden placed third. The relay team also qualified for the state championship.

5

Foundation Academy junior and baseball team shortstop Branden Holcomb was named the Florida Athletic Coaches Association 2A player of the year.

Ben Barrett, from The First Academy baseball team, was named the Florida Athletic Coaches Association’s Class 3A, District 11 Player of the Year.

The Windermere High School boys baseball team became Class 7A District 5 champions.

Both Windermere High School and The First Academy celebrated double district championships in baseball and softball last week.

ANDREA MUJICA STAFF WRITER

W

indermere High School is seeing double.

The Wolverines claimed Class 7A, District 5 championships in both baseball and softball Thursday, May 5, in dramatic, come-from-behind fashion. The baseball squad defeated the Dr. Phillips Panthers 5-4, while the softball team outplayed West Orange High 4-3.

WOLVERINE BASEBALL

“We talk to the guys all the time about holding the rope, and they ended up coming out holding the rope until the offense could figure some things out,” Windermere head baseball coach Eric Lassiter said. “We kept preaching after the first inning, just chip away, chip away, chip away and really just keep believing, which is what this team has done all year. And they believed they would chip away

and win this game, and we found a way to do that in the bottom of the sixth.”

Windermere took the lead late in the game, when sophomore Tyler Head hit a sacrifice fly to bring in the fifth run, putting the score 5-4 at the bottom of the sixth and pitching the last three outs at the top of the seventh.

“It’s all for the seniors,” Head said.

Shortstop Blake Cyr drove in four runs for Windermere, batting a double in the fourth and a triple in the sixth.

That explosion came after a disastrous start, with the Panthers scoring four runs in the first inning.

“It’s honestly surreal going out 4-0 in the first inning, specially as a senior,” Cyr said. “Just thinking about the last three years I’ve been with Windermere, everything kind of flashes back, and the way we poured it all as a team and stayed one as a family, it was just unreal.”

The tension was palpable during the last inning, and the silence was deafening. After the last out, all the

Andrea Mujica

Wolverines emerged from the dugout to celebrate.

“It feels great,” pitcher and senior Simon Sobelia said. “We came to this place to win and that’s the mentality, to win every single game when we can and make it as far as we can.”

Sobelia pitched the first five innings of the game, allowed four runs on nine hits and struck out three.

Windermere and Dr. Phillips faced each other two times prior to the district championship game, with each taking a win over the other.

“This year was very competitive, anybody could beat anybody,” Dr. Phillips head baseball coach William King said. “Windermere and Olympia, being district opponents, were probably two of our bigger ‘rivalry’ games.

But with most of the players knowing each (other) through travel ball, there’s always something a little extra.”

Lassiter said the Panthers were SEE SEEING PAGE 20

Windermere Prep beach volleyball snags district title This was the first year beach volleyball was deemed an official FHSAA sport.

ANDREA MUJICA STAFF WRITER

Courtesy photo

The Lakers beach volleyball team became district champions during its first season of being a FHSAA sport.

Windermere Prep claimed beach volleyball’s first FHSAA district title after an undefeated regular season by defeating Horizon High 4-1 Wednesday, April 27.

The title is the culmination of a perfect 9-0 regular season in the sport’s first year recognized by the FHSAA.

“It’s a great accomplishment — winning districts the first inaugural year of the sport being officially recognized,” head coach Walt Drexl said. “It was a great feeling.”

The team competed last year, as well, unofficially, but because of COVID, there were not as many games scheduled for the season and not as many teams competing.

However, this year, more schools participated in the sport, and the competition became tougher.

For the Lakers, training was challenging. The school has only one volleyball court, and it is very diffiSEE SUCCESS PAGE 21

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ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

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OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, MAY 12, 2022

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

Andres Giron Andres Giron moved to the United States from Venezuela seven years ago and has since become a force for the Wolverines in football, wrestling and weightlifting. Most recently, he earned the state championship title at the FHSAA Class 3A State Weightlifting Championships. He lifted 305 pounds in the bench and 300 pounds in clean and jerk, for a total of 605 pounds.

Tell us a little about your weightlifting season.

From the beginning, I was maybe 50 to 60 pounds under of what I ended, and that was my goal — to get over 600 total. I had a couple issues. I was suspended from a couple meets at the beginning, and it kind of messed up my rhythm. But once I got everything set, it just started flowing, and by the time districts came, metros and districts, I was already where I wanted to be. I just had to perform.

You built 50 pounds over the season. How? It was a lot of hard work, a lot of consistency, a lot of eating correctly, a lot of training properly and doing everything as best as I could.

THE BASICS AGE: 16 GRADE: Sophomore SPORT: Weightlifting, football, wrestling SCHOOL: Windermere High WEIGHT CLASS: 169 pounds

Courtesy photos

The First Academy team with the trophy after Academic Director Will Cohen presented it to them.

Seeing double

restaurant together.

What positions do you play in football?

Linebacker and running back, as of now.

What’s your secret to lifting?

It’s just working really hard. I feel like between me and the other kids (who) won states, we outworked everybody to get there, with consistency and trying to do everything right.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 19

among the toughest squads the Wolverines faced.

“They were our second loss of the How does it feel to be a state year,” he said. “We came back and champion? beat them at their place, and then It’s awesome; I really like it. It’s they were hungry today. … They been great with my family and What about competing? played with a lot of heart. The shortfriends. Everybody has been con- The pressure. Being able to be stop kind of keeps them going; he gratulating me, and it makes me like, ‘Am I going to get first this does a really nice job keeping them The First Academy defeated Orlando Christian Prep with a score of 4-0. feel really good. Everything that’s time? Or second? Or third?’ motivated. … Kudos to Dr. Phillips, happened is thanks to God. I put What do I have to do, maybe I they came out and gave their best Him first for everything. I pray have to put more weight than I effort and made us fight for it for Steinbrenner High School at 7 p.m. before every lift. know I can (lift), and then if I hit OTHER RESULTS sure.”

Thursday, May 12. it then that’s awesome. If I don’t BASEBALL The Wolverines faced Venice High How long have you been weight- hit it, I’ll try it again next week.

Because the FHSAA changed Class 2A, District 6 School as they hosted the regional the rules this year, power ranking lifting?

Legacy Charter 1* quarterfinal Tuesday, May 10, after teams will move on to the regional This will be my second year What colleges are you Orangewood Christian 8 press time. competing. considering? quarterfinals. Therefore, the * Legacy Charter faced Orangewood I would love to go to the Warriors will face Lakewood Ranch WOLVERINE SOFTBALL Christian during the regional What other sports do you play?

University of Florida or the High School during the regional In similar fashion, Windermere’s quarterfinals at 7 p.m. Thursday, quarterfinals Wednesday, May 11, Football, and I did wrestling last University of Central Florida. softball squad faced a strong May 12, in Bradenton. after press time. year. opponent in West Orange High.

What would you like to study?

Class 2A, District 7 This game — a pitchers dual — TFA BASEBALL What do you enjoy most about Engineering. I want to study Foundation Academy 3* featured West Orange’s Gabriella The First Academy baseball team being a part of the weightlifting business and finance, as well.

Santa Fe Catholic 4 Lindsey and Windermere’s Lexi is still on track to defend its state team?

That’d be awesome. * Foundation Academy faced King in an arm’s race. The first run championship title.

The environment — it’s amazing.

Brevard HEAT during the regional The Royals blanked Windermere didn’t come until the bottom of the Being with all my teammates and What type of music do you quarterfinals Wednesday, May 11, fourth, when Windermere’s Sophie Prep 10-0 Thuesday, May 5, to all, that is the greatest feeling. listen to? after press time.

Shaik hit a triple to put a run on the capture the Class 3A District 9 Just being cheered on and cheerI like Drake’s old albums. I like championship title. board. ing people on. that a lot. Whatever people Class 4A, District 11 “It’s nice to win the district,” TFA “We talked a lot about where we listen to, I just listen to, I listen Horizon High 1 were as a team and what we wanted head coach Scott Grove said. “We Tell us about the camaraderie to everything. Before the meets, McKeel Academy 11 to improve upon, especially moving have a chance now that we’ll be the among your teammates.

I tried to listen to more ‘chill’ forward,” Windermere softball head top seat in our region, so we get to We are really close; we do music to get me settled down and Class 7A, District 4 coach Eileen Hannigan said. “Just host throughout the playoffs to the everything together. Most of the calm.

West Orange High School 12 kind of the idea that it is not about Final Four. We are really happy that kids who do weightlifting also do Ocoee High School 2 how you start. It is about how you we get to play at home, especially football. So, if we are not in the What is your favorite food? improve every game and every time with our facility being so nice.” weight room together, we are in I eat everything. But right now, SOFTBALL Ben Barrett pitched all five innings getting a little bit better.” the field together, if not we are I’ve been eating just rice, meat, Class 2A, District 8 The Wolverines faced some and allowed zero hits and zero runs. eating out at Gators or at any vegetables. Whatever my mom Foundation Academy 9 “We try not to be complacent,” hardships this season; two main makes; whatever my grandma Lakeland Christian 0 players had to step out of the game Grove said. “A lot of times when makes. because of injuries in the middle you’ve had some success, and Class 3A, District 7 of the season. Kaitlyn DeFranco winning the state championship last What three places are in your Windermere Prep 1* underwent a shoulder surgery in year, you feel like when you show up bucket list to visit in the future?

Montverde Academy 2 March after earning the starting you are automatically going to win, I never visited El Salto Angel * Windermere Prep faced third base spot, and Miranda Murch so you want to stay focused and try (Angel Falls) in Venezuela; I want Umatilla High during the regional was sidelined for five games after to do all the things correctly that give to go there really bad. There’s a quarterfinals Wednesday, May 11, experiencing an injury that took her us a chance to win and continue to go place in Utah, a really big pool after press time. on in the playoffs.” off the field for about three weeks. underground. Alaska, I really The First Academy currently has “As a team, we tried to find a great want to go there.

Class 4A, District 7 balance and great communication,” 10 seniors in its baseball team, while Horizon High School 3* Hannigan said. “The underclass had Windermere Prep has only three If you had a superpower, which Bishop Moore Catholic High 7 great opportunities to step up, and seniors. one would it be and why? * Horizon High faced Rockledge “This year we are extremely young, they’ve really taken them. I am really Super speed. Being super fast High during the regional and we took a lot of right steps in the proud of what they’ve done.” like Flash — that’d be dope. quarterfinals Wednesday, May 11, The Warriors were able to score right direction,” Windermere Prep after press time. three runs at the top of the fifth head softball coach Adam Taylor What’s your favorite thing inning to take the lead over the said. “The future looks pretty good you learned from coach for out program, I am proud of my Wolverines.

Olson? the entire game, allowing two hits “We just take the approach that guys.”

I’ve learned a lot from him, The First Academy faced Trinity while striking out 10 and batting we are going to go out and we are more so from a character going to try to get better every day,” Prep in the regional quarterfinal a solo homer at the bottom of the building perspective. Not that West Orange head softball coach Wednesday, May 11, after press time. seventh. much from weightlifting, he This was a tough season for the Todd LaNeave said. taught me the basics on what team, as the coaching staff chose Windermere was able to tie the TFA SOFTBALL I needed to do in clean and jerk, game and take the lead at the bottom Like its baseball team, The First to make a difficult schedule to allow squat and all that. But he’s really Academy also took the Class 2A, the team to face tough competition. of the seventh. developed my character in more “Watching these girls compete “There is nothing but respect for District 7 softball crown after ways than weightlifting.

West Orange,” Hannigan said. “Our defeating Orlando Christian Prep and pull off some big wins this program motto is ‘We B4 me,’ and 4-0 at a home game Thursday, May season has been so rewarding,” How do you think weightlifting Gangelhoff said. “I believe our really the idea is that the individual 5. is going to help you in other Shannon Till, Agent We’re all in this together.

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Senior Hannah Harper pitched 11, after press time. regional quarterfinal as they face

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Sandra Josephine Kasiba, 77, of Oakland, died April 26, 2022. Winter Oak Funeral Home and Cremations, Winter Garden.

Grady Moxley Rhodes, 85, of Winter Garden, died April 23, 2022. Collison Carey Hand Funeral Home, Winter Garden.

MILDRED HARRIS ARRINGTON DIED APRIL 28, 2022.

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MERLE CORBITT DIED MAY 7, 2022.

Merle Corbitt, 83, passed away May 7, 2022, in Ocoee, Florida.

Merle is survived by his wife of 48 years, Betty Corbitt; daughter, Leslie Fuqua, and son-in-law, Dan Fuqua; grandson, Jared Fuqua, and granddaughter-in-law, Kathy Fuqua; sister, Quetta Sullivan-Smith, and brother-in-law, Lon Smith; brothers, Van Corbitt, Larry Corbitt and Terry Corbitt; sisters-in-law, Pam Corbitt, Charlene Corbitt and Judy Corbitt; sister-in-law, Patsy Corbitt Hodges; along with multiple nieces and nephews.

Merle is preceded in death by Paul J. Corbitt, father; Eva Corbitt, mother; and Paul A. Corbitt, brother.

A graveside service was held at 2 p.m. Wednesday, May 11, at Woodlawn Memorial Park, 400 Woodlawn Cemetery Road, Gotha, Florida.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations to Cornerstone Hospice Foundation, 2445 Lane Park Road, Tavares, FL 32778.

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

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cult to fit the 13 girls on the roster on it. Drexl had about 20 girls try out for the team but kept seven training parttime to have them as potential future players for the upcoming years.

“We are just going to continue moving forward as far as our school is concerned and keep trying to develop the program,” he said. “(We) want to get younger kids interested and get them growing when they are younger just like they do indoors so they get used to the beach game.”

Windermere Prep faced many familiar foes, including Windermere High, Lake Buena Vista, The First Academy, Foundation Academy and West Orange High.

The girls fell to Berkeley Prep Monday, May 2, during the play-ins round of the tournament to qualify for the state quarterfinals.

Horizon High School was a strong competitor during this year’s season as well. The Hawks completed their regular season with a 10-3 record and faced the Lakers in the game for the championship title.

“More and more girls are coming out to play the sport, and more of the better volleyball players are going to be playing,” Drexl said. “But that’s not a bad thing; that’s a good thing.”

21

We’ll take the first step with you

Success in sand CONTINUED FROM PAGE 19

THURSDAY, MAY 12, 2022

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Mildred Harris Arrington entered into eternal rest April 28, 2022, in Charleston, South Carolina.

She was born Sept. 22, 1916, in Thomasville, Georgia, the youngest of six sisters.

When she was 10 years old, the family moved to Boston, Georgia, where she lived until graduating from high school.

With no funds available for college, she moved in with her sister, Ruth, in Sarasota, and began a career with Western Union. At 17, she traveled to Bloomfield, New Jersey, to train on the teletype machine as the Morse Code was being replaced.

She traveled the state of Florida, following the towns during the tourist and migrant seasons. There were strawberries in Plant City, watermelons in Leesburg, potatoes in Palatka, and citrus in Eustis and Tavares. She was managing an office there when she met and married her husband of 59 years, William “Bill” Sidney Arrington Jr. until his death in 1999. Together, they raised two boys, William S. Arrington III and Charles H. Arrington.

She was an active wife, mother, homemaker, sports mom, church worker, duplicate bridge player and golfer. She served as a co-worker with her husband, as Oakland town treasurer, a volunteer election poll worker, community clothes closet volunteer and Meals on Wheels deliverer and was always ready with a casserole or sour cream pound cake for the infirmed or bereaved.

She was a loving Grandma and great grandma (Big Mama).

She is survived by her son, Charles; two daughters-in-law, Doris and Judy; three grandchildren, Sidney, Paul and Jennifer; and six great-grandchildren, Amanda, Chloe, Hali, Caleb, Logan and TJ. She is predeceased by her husband, William Sidney Arrington Jr.; her sisters, Irene, Lois, Gladys, Evelyn and Ruth; her son, William S. Arrington III; and a grandchild, Pamela Kristin Arrington.

Special gratitude to Mildred’s caregiver, Ann Robinson, and angels who helped care for her.

Viewing will be at 10 a.m.

Saturday, May 14, 2022, at the Baldwin Fairchild Funeral Home, 428 Plant St., Winter Garden. The graveside service will be private for family members, and the memorial service will be held at the Oakland Presbyterian Church at 1 p.m. A reception in the fellowship hall is to follow the service.

In lieu of flowers, a monetary gift can be made in her honor to the Oakland Presbyterian Church, 218 E. Oakland Ave., Oakland, FL 34760; a portion of which will be sent to support the Ukraine refugee crisis.

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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.

An illness, death of a loved one, loss of job, one bad decision, one unforeseen crisis...

Folks... we need you.

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”.

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611 Business Park Blvd #101, Winter Garden, FL 34787 (407) 905-9500 www.matthewshopeministries.org www.facebook.com/matthewshopeministries 380697-1

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