05.26.22 West Orange Times & Observer

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

Observer Winter Garden, Ocoee, Oakland

Meet Health Central’s newest leader. PAGE 8.

YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD. VOLUME 89, NO. 21

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THURSDAY, MAY 26, 2022

Their time to shine!

Windermere High 9 | West Orange High 10 | Foundation Academy 11

Warehouse approval comes with conditions

Mr. Winter Garden

Residents near the Ocoee project said they fear the increased traffic the project will bring to the area.

SEE PAGE 2

YOUR TOWN HONOR OUR FALLEN Several Memorial Day programs have been planned for Monday, May 30.

The city of Winter Garden will hold its annual program beginning at 8:30 a.m. at Veterans Memorial Park, 420 S. Park Ave. The event will include a roll call of veterans, placement of wreaths and patriotic songs. For information, visit cwgdn.com.

The Rotary Club of Windermere’s Memorial Day program starts at noon Monday, May 30, at Windermere Town Hall, 520 Main St. For more, visit windermererotary.org.

Join Woodlawn Memorial Park and Funeral Home and Dignity Memorial for the 72nd annual Memorial Day celebration at 10 a.m. Monday, May 30. The program takes place in front of the Christ Mosaic at Woodlawn Memorial Park, 400 Woodlawn Cemetery Road, Gotha.

Carlos Watson spends his days — from sunup to sundown — sitting outside his home on West Story Road and waving to all the vehicles going by. Many folks will stop to chat with the charismatic 93-year-old.

STORY ON PAGE 4.

Carlos Watson is happiest when he is interacting with the community.

PEGGY LANTZ HONORED AT CONFERENCE

The 2022 Peggy Sias Lantz Florida Botanical Excellence Award was presented to the inaugural award’s namesake at the 11th Annual Florida Herbal Conference held at Rollins College.

Lantz received the award, which was created to recognize individuals whose contribution to the state’s botanical education and conservation made an impact on the community. She founded the Florida Native Plant Society and has served numerous organizations dedicated to conservation, including the Oakland Nature Preserve.

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ASIAN FESTIVAL DELIGHTS Strong relationship Olympia’s Kevin Sullivan and his girlfriend, Windermere’s Ana Bleeker, both earned ‘Athlete of the Year’ honors. 19.

FINE LINE

West Orange met the Far East at the Asian Cultural Festival.

PAGE 3.

Orange County Public Schools students and parents are questioning the fines they received related to damage to district-issued laptops. Some say the damage came from regular, everyday use over several years. SEE 6-7.

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THURSDAY, MAY 26, 2022

Ocoee gives conditional approval to warehouse ANDREA MUJICA STAFF WRITE

The Ocoee City Commission on Tuesday, May 17, approved a comprehensive plan amendment for a light industrial warehouse proposal.

The project includes a 70,720-square-foot warehouse on three parcels totaling 5.58 acres on the east side of Pine Street and 462 feet north of Palm Drive.

The project is part of an overlay of the area. The approval of the comprehensive plan amendment transformed the low-density residential potential of the area to light commercial.

Ocoee resident Clifford Sanders, who lives on Sanders Drive west of the proposed development, said he had concerns about the access point of the warehouse that eventually will be built.

“All I can see is cut-through traffic on Pine Street,” he said. “I don’t approve of it, and I don’t like it.”

Sanders’ wife, Lindsay Sanders, also addressed the commission.

“Since the early 1950s, five generations of my husband’s family have lived, and some still

live, in this neighborhood,” she said.

“We’ve already lost enough to that highway. It’s noisy; we can’t see sunsets anymore. … Let’s put on the brakes as far as adding more industrial zoning — especially in existing residential areas.”

The project was approved with the condition that the developers and the city staff work together to direct traffic to Ocoee Apopka Road until Pine Street is approved. The ordinance stirred a lot of controversy among the commission and those in attendance.

“We worked very hard on this overlay to make this fit into the 429,” Commissioner Rosemary Wilsen said. “I hate to say this, but one day, we are going to see Pine Street open. … I figure one day, maybe not in my lifetime, but we’ll see that Pine Street probably will be open at one point.”

“Only way I’ll vote for this is if we go with what you are saying — that’s the only way I’m going to vote for this,” Mayor Rusty Johnson said. “Things do change and things can change, but I didn’t vote to do that. … You are going to put that cut-through over to 437, that’s where it’s got to go. …

Some things don’t need change, just because we did an overlay one time.

I know these guys, and I know they are good developers, but I’m not for doing that to him (Sanders).”

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n Ocoee City Mayor Rusty Johnson read a proclamation designating May 20, 2022, as Florida Emancipation Day. n The Commission proclaimed May 15, 2022, as National Peace Officer Memorial Day, and the week of May 15-21 as National Police Week in the city of Ocoee. n All items in the consent agenda were approved unanimously.

Items included the approval for improvements on the construction of West Oakland Avenue and North Cumberland Avenue and the approval for general stormwater improvements to address unanticipated repairs to the existing system traveling north along Little Spring Hill Drive. n The Chick-fill-A 5K beneficiary check was awarded to Southeastern Food Bank for the 10th annual Chick-fil-A and Kids For Fun run. n The commission approved to have a car show in the downtown area from 1 to 6 p.m. Sunday, June 5. n Commissioner George Oliver presented Standing Ovation Talent Group with a check of $250 to support the hard work of the nonprofit dance group.

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One of the developers agreed to work on an alternate solution regarding the access point to the warehouse.

“We don’t mind limiting the access and pushing everything east, if that’s what you all want,” the developer said. “That was a request from the city for access via Pine and Ocoee Apopka Road, so if that is the (limitation) until the city improves Pine, we are fine with that as well. We actually prefer it that way.”

Because the plan amendment was approved with condition, there are several steps still to be taken prior to the start of the construction phase.

Commissioner George Oliver presented a motion to deny the project until the developers could show the proposed changes to the access point, but the motion had no second. Therefore, he opposed the motion. Commissioner Larry Brinson was absent.

Oliver asked Sanders what he would like to see on the property where the project will be developed.

“Housing,” Sanders said. “People need somewhere to live; it’s hard to live in a warehouse.”

Another motion pertaining to the zoning of the project also was approved during the meeting. Oliver opposed this motion, as well.

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THURSDAY, MAY 26, 2022

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Benz Sukcharoen, owner of Sweet Tusk, sold items from Thailand, including ginger soap, as well as magnets and keychains made of miniature Asian plates.

Ni hao!

Lara Wang, 7, enjoyed a delicious lunch in Bill Breeze Park.

Members of the C.H.A.R.G.E. Dragon Boat Team performed Sunday afternoon.

Many Asian cultures were represented at Ocoee’s Asian Cultural Festival.

T

he Asian American Heritage Council of Central Florida and the city of Ocoee hosted a fun day of music, dance, food and more during the Asian Cultural Festival.

Vendors sold a plethora of food and snack items; and businesses and teams shared demonstrations and traditional dances representing these countries: Thailand, Taiwan, Japan, India, Philippines, Indonesia, China and Vietnam. The event was held Sunday, May 22, at the Ocoee Lakeshore Center and Bill Breeze Park.

Xiang Ma kept the barbecue chicken and lamb skewers coming at the China Hut College Park booth.

Right: Bruce Shen showed his strength with a punch to the board held by Bret Gordon of American Dragon Martial Arts.

— AMY QUESINBERRY

OCPS shares renovation update for Lakeview Middle The campus in Winter Garden is scheduled for a number of upgrades to its auditorium, dining space, restrooms and ADA compliance.

AMY QUESINBERRY COMMUNITY EDITOR

The 96-year-old Lakeview Middle School campus is getting a facelift — one that won’t affect the historical significance of the buildings.

Orange County Public Schools is embarking on a major renovation project at the Winter Garden school — including many upgrades. It currently is in the 30% design phase. Bidding is slated to begin in January, and construction should start in April.

OCPS and Orange County School Board Vice Chair Melissa Byrd held a virtual community meeting Monday, May 16, to share the 30% design phase with parents and citizens.

“We’re excited to see it getting some fine-tuning and a facelift after all these years,” Byrd said.

Also in attendance at the meeting were other panelists representing OCPS, as well as architectural and design firms.

John Quattrone, of the Song + Associates Inc., presented a list of campuswide upgrades and then discussed changes to the individual buildings.

Building 1 is the historic 1926 structure, and this is where a majority of the funds will be spent. It will have a new secure lobby with public restroom, a new clinic and new main entry ramp; and undersized classrooms and administration spaces will be reconfigured. The auditorium will get new finishes, house lighting, a control platform, acoustics, new stage wheelchair lift and new canopy on the exterior stairs.

“Building 1 we’re very excited about,” Quattrone said, remarking on the beauty of the Collegiate Gothic architecture. “I had the privilege of restoring and renovating a Collegiate Gothic building at the University of Florida.”

The entryway arch to the main building will be rebuilt, and a new Lakeview Middle School sign will be installed in the gable.

In the gymnasium, bleachers and lockers will be repaired, and a new covered walkway canopy will be installed between buildings 2 and 4.

The gym floor also will be evaluated.

Building 3, which houses the technology labs, is getting two more restrooms, a tech exploration lab and a technical resource center.

In Building 4, one of the classroom buildings, the elevator will be renovated, a canopy connecting the building to the gym will be added, cabinetry will be repaired, and exterior railings and stair handrails will be refinished.

“When you go in these buildings after the project is completed … it will look like you’re walking into a new building,” Quattrone said.

The other classroom structure, Building 6, is getting a teacher planning room in the current clinic space,

one large classroom is being split, and permanently locked exterior doors will be installed.

Building 7 houses art and music, and it is getting a new kiln room when the art classroom is remodeled.

The media center, Building 8, will get new furniture and shelving, four new restrooms, thermal-reflective window shades and an upgraded CCTV lab.

In the cafeteria, Building 9, the kitchen will be renovated, a staff restroom will be added, a new projector and screen will be installed, and the dining area will expand outdoors.

Additional sidewalks will be built near the parent parking lot and the ballfield.

Restrooms will not be enlarged, Quattrone said, but everything will be replaced, including the ceilings, flooring, tile and porcelain.

All construction will be phased and will take place on an occupied campus, but considerations will be taken to minimize disruptions, Quattrone said.

A re-roofing project also is in the works, but this is separate from the renovation project and is expected to be finished prior to the renovation work, he said.

The next meeting regarding this project will take place early next year, said Lauren Roth, senior manager of facilities communications for OCPS. “We are very excited for this opportunity to renovate and update this beautiful, historical school building,” Byrd said. “Lakeview has a rich histo-

CAMPUSWIDE UPGRADES Throughout the campus, work will include: n Correcting the grading n Resurfacing the parking lots and courts and repairing sidewalks n Repairing exterior stairs, steps and railings n Repairing covered walkways and installing new LED lighting n Sealing windows, doors and concrete panels n Repointing and re-grouting brick n Adding new signage, including a marquee sign n Repairing or replacing doors and adding new door hardware n Making new interior finishes n Adding new window coverings, cabinetry and teaching technology n Upgrading restrooms n Installing new acoustic ceiling n Installing HVAC and ductwork n Adding new data, electric and fire protection systems

ry in the Winter Garden community, and we want to honor that by giving the building the love and attention it deserves.”

Anyone with questions about Lakeview’s renovation can email Byrd at Melissa.byrd@ocps.net.

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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

Carlos Watson tested every tractor (left in the 1970s, above in 1996) that came through the doors of Pounds Motor Company in downtown Winter Garden, including this Case SS tractor pulling a mechanical fruit loader.

Neighborly nonagenarian AMY QUESINBERRY COMMUNITY EDITOR

I

f you drive past the corner of South Boyd Street and West Story Road in Winter Garden on any given day, one thing is for certain. You will see Carlos Watson sitting in his lounge chair at the side of his house, possibly with a Coors Light bottle — never a can — in the drink holder. If you honk, the 93-year-old will throw up his hand and wave at you.

Chances are, too, there’s a visitor sitting with him, shooting the breeze and listening to stories of old Winter Garden. Sometimes, Daisy, the neighbor’s dog, comes over and jumps right up in Watson’s lap.

He might even get up to stretch his legs a time or two, taking a stroll through his backyard garden and checking on his collard greens and peas.

Watson has been giving folks a friendly wave for years, and he is the neighborhood ambassador, said Michelle Ford Gentry, who has lived across the street from him for 27 years.

SWEET HOME ALABAMA

Watson was the 18th and last child born to C.O. “Claude” Watson and Ari Reid in the woods of Southern Alabama. He never learned to read or write because he attended school only until about the third grade.

“It was out in the country, about five or six miles from home that you had to walk,” Watson said. “They finally got a bus. … Hell, I drove an old school bus when I was 10 1/2 years old. No license or nothing. … There weren’t about 25 (students) on the bus. The fellow that lived about three miles from us, he drove the school bus, but if he got sick, he’d want some of us to drive it.”

Watson said he wasn’t learning anything in school, so he quit before finishing third grade.

“I missed it, but I made it this far,” he said. “I thank the Lord for that.”

When he was about 10 years old, he began working on the more than 150 acres that was the family farm and planting or harvesting corn, peanuts, beans and cotton, as well as velvet beans for the cows. He remembers working the plow with one of his brothers because neither was big enough to manage it alone.

“We didn’t have much to eat or money to buy stuff,” he said. “We raised it.”

WORKING MAN

In 1947, when Watson was 18, he hopped a bus with a travel ticket and $2.50 in his pocket and headed to Florida — where a sister lived in Winter Garden and he knew he could make a decent wage. He stayed with his sister in a little house farther west off Story Road, a place he called Burch’s Subdivision, and earned his wages picking fruit.

Water was hard to come by in that section of Winter Garden, and it could only be obtained by walking two blocks and toting the water back, Watson said. When he saw an older woman who lived nearby struggling with her water buckets, he vowed to carry her water for her. He also vowed to love the woman’s granddaughter, Betty, for the rest of his life.

“I asked her, ‘You want to get married?’” Watson said. “I asked her grandfather the next day.”

His response: “But I’ll tell you one thing — you’d better not mistreat her.

And it didn’t happen.”

The couple walked to the courthouse Orlando along a dirt Highway 50 (West Colonial Drive) to get their marriage license only to find out they couldn’t get married there. Someone told them to go to Fulton, Georgia. So they did.

A justice of the peace united the

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Watsons in marriage three months after the couple met. She was wearing a pair of dress slacks, and he was in his overalls and a white shirt. Both were 18 years old.

They lived on her grandmother’s screened-in porch for about a year, saving every penny to buy a place of their own. They bought the lot next door for $150 — $25 down and $15 a month.

The Watsons lived in this house on Foster Street for 20 years, even adding another bedroom and enlarging the kitchen when their family grew to include a daughter, Linda, and a son, Marvin. Eventually, the couple saved enough money to move into the current home on Boyd Street.

Farming was an important job for decades in West Orange County.

Watson worked for 30 cents an hour, farming the land where State Road 429 divides Winter Garden and Ocoee, as well as much of the land north of downtown Winter Garden.

“If you got a job, you’d better stay with it,” he said. “If you missed a day, they made you stay home another day.”

At another job, he hoed orange trees.

“You had to get under there with that rake and dig up nut grass,” he said.

“You had to get five-gallon buckets of nut grass. If you didn’t work fast enough, they didn’t need you.”

Still another job had him picking fruit and earning 15 cents for every two bushels he turned in.

A produce stand once was located on Winter Garden-Vineland Road south of Story Road, and the Watsons ran it for a time.

Watson also worked for citrus grove owner Charles Hawthorne for 50 cents an hour, 10 hours a day, seven days a week.

In a daily test of strength, Watson drove an ice truck for the downtown Winter Garden ice plant, delivering 100-pound blocks of ice to residents.

That job lasted about two months.

“I wasn’t as big as I am now,” he said.

“I probably weighed 110 pounds.”

Another driving job better suited for the small-framed man was driving trucks hauling tractors from Savan-

nah, Georgia, to Pounds Motor Co. in Winter Garden. Pounds ordered about 50 tractors at a time, Watson said, and he was responsible for loading them on the dock and getting them down to Central Florida.

Taking the position at Pounds meant a pay raise for Watson, and he started earning 97 cents an hour. He remained loyal to Hoyle Pounds for nearly 47 years. At the time of Pounds’ death in 1981, Watson was making an hourly wage of $10.87.

CREATURE OF HABIT

Watson maintains a daily routine — and this includes waking up anywhere from 1 to 3:30 a.m.

“I get up and make up my bed, take a shower, shave, and then I fix my breakfast — eggs and bacon,” he said.

“I may drink a cup and a half of coffee every day. And then come out here, sometimes at 5 o’clock in the morning.”

Folks worry about his safety, but he brushes it off.

“If it’s my time to go, I’ll go,” he said.

“If somebody comes by and knocks me in the head. … You’ve got to go some way.”

Watson keeps a silver Honda truck parked in his carport. He still drives when he needs to go somewhere like Walmart or Sonny’s Barbecue. He hopes to stay in his house as long as possible.

“If something happens to me where I can’t do nothing, I’m not going to no nursing home,” he said matterof-factly. “I’ll either go to Georgia or live with Debra, the lady who does the lawn mowing.”

But Watson shows no signs of slowing down. He gets around with a walker — and sometimes only a walking cane. He tends to his yard and his garden for exercise.

“I’m pretty busy when I feel like it,” he said.

His neighbors look out for him, including Gentry and Shaun and Bonnie Jones across the street. And so does everyone else, one vehicle at a time, as they pass his house in anticipation of a smile and friendly wave.

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STATEMENT OF OWNERSHIP PUBLIC NOTICES

The West Orange Times meets the legal requirements to publish legal and public notices in Orange County per F.S. 50.011 USPS Periodicals Permit (USPS# 687-120)

WEST ORANGE TIMES

The West Orange Times (USPS 687120) is published weekly for $40 per year ($50 outside of Orange County) by the Observer Media Group, 661 Garden Commerce Parkway, Winter Garden, Florida, 34787. Periodical postage paid at Winter Garden, Florida. POSTMASTER: Send changes of address to the (name of pub; i.e., West Orange Times, West Orange Times & Observer or Southwest Orange Observer), Observer Media Group, P.O. Box 135, Lincolnshire, Illinois 60069-0135.

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1970 Main St. Third Floor Sarasota, FL 34236 941-366-3468 Courtesy photos

Carlos and Betty Watson lived in this small house after they were married. Their daughter was born while they lived here.

Right: Carlos and Betty Watson raised two children, Marvin and Linda, in their home on South Boyd St.

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Local resources are available to combat formula shortage Central Florida is home to several milk banks, and pediatricians also offer advice to parents who can’t find formula at their local store.

ANNABELLE SIKES STAFF WRITER

While infant formula remains difficult to find locally, Central Florida parents have several resources available to them while they wait for store shelves to be replenished.

Local milk banks such as the Milk Depot at Orlando Health’s Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women and Babies and Mother’s Milk Bank of Florida are available to provide donor milk. Moreover, pediatricians also are offering advice to parents struggling to find cans.

PHYSICIAN ADVICE

Roshni Patel, chief of pediatrics at Community Health Centers Inc., said pediatricians are an important resource to get proper guidance supported by the American Academy of Pediatrics.

“The formula shortage is affecting many parents and families,” Patel said. “There have been changes made recently at the federal level, which we hope will help with the shortage over the next few weeks. It is important for parents to reach out to their pediatrician’s office if they have any questions or concerns to ensure their baby stays healthy during this difficult time.”

Patel said it is important parents only take what they need and not to hoard formula, because that could worsen the shortage crisis. Checking smaller stores and drug stores, in addition to trying online shopping through Amazon, Walmart or Target, may prove beneficial.

“People are kind of experiencing the whole toilet paper situation of COVID where they’re in parent buying mode and they’re going and scooping up whatever they can find and stockpiling it,” Orlando Health pediatrician Rachel Prete said.

According to Patel, it is OK to switch formulas temporarily if a baby is on a standard infant formula; even generic or store-brand formulas are options to use, as long as they are FDA-approved.

If a baby is close to one year of age, they may use toddler formula for a few days in an emergency.

If a baby is on a high-calorie formula or on specialized formula such as amino acid or hydrolyzed formula, it is important parents talk with their pediatrician, who can help guide them in other acceptable brands or alternatives. Patel said some pediatrician offices may have sample cans.

According to Prete, if a child is older than 6 months and parents are desperate, the American Academy of Pediatrics has stated it is safe for mothers to use whole cow’s milk for a short period of time — no more than 24 ounces in a day, to supplement a baby’s diet until mothers are able to get ahold of formula.

However, Prete and Patel both cautioned against certain options, including homemade formula.

“It’s very unsafe, because these are not experts online, these are people who think they have become experts by reading on the internet and creating these recipes that could potentially cause electrolyte abnormalities in children, and we definitely don’t want people making their own formula,” Prete said.

In addition, watering down formu-

la is not recommended as it can limit proper nutrition for a baby and can make the baby sick.

Prete warns against obtaining breast milk from a mother who hasn’t been screened and approved as a donor.

“We never support people buying breast milk or using other people’s breast milk,” Prete said. “You don’t know that person’s medical history, and you don’t know if that person has been tested to determine that milk is safe.”

LOCAL RESOURCES

The Mothers’ Milk Bank of Florida is a 501c(3) charitable organization that collects, processes and distributes donor human milk.

Laene Keith, spokesperson for the bank, said the internet is not always the best place for information — especially when thinking about an infant’s brain development. Any foods offered to a baby in the first 12 months of life are setting the foundation for brain development.

“This is such a passionate and emotional topic for families, because as they’re navigating the optimal feeding method for their baby, they’re really being tossed a lot of information all at once,” Keith said. “We know that families are going through every measure that they can think of to find a nourishment that’s going to be optimal for their own baby, and we honor com-

pletely that families are really looking in a unique way to find this resource.”

Although the nonprofit does not advocate for any type of method for distribution outside of the organization, the bank recently partnered with the University of Central Florida on a study where families can learn safe and compatible resources to help connect families with lactation professionals for their individual care.

The UCF study didn’t find the exchange among strangers something that routinely happens in Central Florida and found that the buying and selling of milk was rare.

Keith said the bank has received an increase in phone calls, social media messages and emails from locals asking about how to receive milk and how to become a donor.

“Our women in Florida are so gracious, generous and kind to offer the milk that they provide and gift,” Keith said. “Our hearts go out to our families in such a time of crisis.”

The Milk Depot at Orlando Health’s Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women and Babies is another local resource.

The Milk Depot serves as a safe, controlled collection point where women can donate their extra breast milk to premature and at-risk infants.

The babies in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at the hospital depend on this nourishment to thrive when their mother’s milk is not available.

Donor milk is used by preemies and older babies who cannot tolerate formula, have a weakened immune system or have special dietary needs.

One ounce of donated milk can feed a preemie for an entire day and give him or her a fighting chance at surviving and improved health.

Both organizations require donors to go through an extensive interview and screening process including a general questionnaire, blood testing and approval by the donor’s primary physician.

LOCAL RESOURCES Donor Milk Depot: (321) 843-8264 Mother’s Milk Bank of Florida: (407) 248-5050 or email info@ milkbankofflorida. org

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THURSDAY, MAY 26, 2022

Glitch in the system?

FINE SCHEDULE According to OCPS documents, fines are calculated based on the number of “offenses” on a student’s record. Those offenses are cumulative throughout their 13-year career in OCPS schools.

FIRST OFFENSE n $50 max: Electronic device fine (accident) n $10 max: Device accessories fine (accident) n $100 max: Electronic device fine (intentional act or theft) n $100 max: Device accessories fine (intentional act or theft) SECOND OFFENSE n $100 max: Electronic device fine (accident) n $25 max: Device accessories fine (accident) n Actual cost of repair/replacement: Electronic device fine (intentional act or theft) n Actual cost of repair/replacement: Device accessories fine (intentional act or theft) THIRD OFFENSE AND THEREAFTER n Actual cost of repair/replacement: Electronic device fine n Actual cost of repair/replacement: Device accessories fine

LEARN MORE n OCPS Code of Student Conduct: bit.ly/3wEkDqS n Family Technology Handbook: bit.ly/3MEXQSL n Device Refusal Form: bit.ly/3sSBzc8

ANNABELLE SIKES STAFF WRITER

The end of the school year is an exciting time. Kids move on to the next grade, students graduate and parents breathe a sigh of relief.

However, this year, the end of school also included some surprises in the form of fines regarding Orange County Public Schools-issued computers.

District 4 OCPS School Board Member Pam Gould said to her knowledge, there have not been many fines and she has only received one official complaint.

However, local parenting forums and research conducted by the Observer differs from that assessment.

Furthermore, OCPS officials did not respond to repeated attempts seeking comment regarding the amount of fines collected; where that money will be spent; expectations regarding the lifespan of the computers; and stipulations of acceptable wear and tear, if any.

PARENT CONCERNS

Horizon West Middle School parent Richard Caruana said his son first got a new computer when he started in sixth grade. Now, getting ready to graduate middle school and head to high school, his son turned in the computer, which was non-functional and died a few weeks ago.

Caruana said the computer’s main issue is that it was not holding charge and was clearly run down from age, being a low-quality, older Dell.

The family was charged $100, and the student could not attend the endof-school dance if it was not paid.

When the father called the school to inquire, school officials said they understood but district officials said schools needed to keep computers in circulation for seven to nine years.

Caruana said that timeframe is unrealistic in an age of disposable, obsolete electronics.

“You can’t even get the most pow-

TALES OF WOE “There was a small scratch on the back of my son’s laptop you can barely see, and they charged us $100.”

— Gimena Howell

“OCPS charged me $50 for (a) crack after four years of being required to carry it around.”

— David Terry

“We got lucky. Of my three seniors, two were cleared without a word. Daughter No. 3 was being told of a $50 fine for a small crack that was really hard to see.

(She) spoke to (Windermere Principal Andrew) Leftakis, who cleared her. Sad that it took such a step for some pretty obvious normal wear and tear after four full years.”

— Joe Barrett Courtesy photo

One parent reported her student was told the scratch on this device warranted a $100 fine.

erful cell phone in the world to be functional and operate for more than a year and a half if you’re lucky,” he said. “The school district is becoming cheap. They’re either getting the funding from the federal government and sitting on it or wasting it in other places and not buying the proper equipment. That’s the concern that I have: They’re mismanaging funds.

I don’t know if they are or if they aren’t, but clearly there’s an issue of some sort.”

He said students who are leaving the area are taking the computers with them, and the school is doing nothing to track them down, causing the kids who stay at the school to be punished and fined when they do return their computers.

“Our students are carrying around laptops every single day in their backpacks, which create natural wear and tear,” Caruana said. “So what are the expectations? There is no communication or information.”

Gould suggested parents take a look at the Code of Student Conduct, as well as the Family Technology Handbook which outlines expectations for the digital devices.

However, that document’s financial liability section only states: “Parents/

guardians/students are responsible for the cost of repair or replacement if the digital device is accidentally damaged; intentionally damaged; damaged due to negligence; lost due to negligence; not returned at the end of the year or upon withdrawal; and/ or stolen but not reported to local law enforcement.” It makes no provisions for acceptable wear and tear.

Caruana said now that his son will be attending high school, he will be more careful in inspecting the computer to make the determination if it’s even worth keeping or if the family should supply its own.

“I’m in the position where luckily I can afford these things financially, but I did see a few parents who are actually struggling and don’t have the money to pay these fines because that’s a lot for them,” he said. “I think those are the people we really need to focus on and have someone help them take care of their needs.”

Windermere High School parent Bill Bell said he experienced a similar situation.

His son went in for senior clearance and brought his computer. Before his son left, he made sure to wipe down the computer and make it look nice, taking photos, cleaning the screen,

“They were legit farming Ulysses S. Grants in (Windermere High’s) media center.”

— Dan Paltjon

“Some of the frustration comes from students who were told in eighth grade that the first exchange was a courtesy, then it would be the $50/$100/$$$.

Some students were charged for issues out of their control (one of my daughters was charged $50 for a headphone jack that didn’t work on her first laptop and $100 for her second when Google wouldn’t log in after a district update.

The other was charged $50 for a crack by the charge port). Some students were charged for damage that was noted when they were issued. While a district issue, there should be some allowance for normal wear and tear on laptops that have been in circulation for six years. Not the missing keys or cracked charge ports, or cracked screens — those should be charged for — but a little ding here, surface scratch there, worn off letters — all things kids were complaining about being charged for that are normal.”

— Sonya Edwards

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6

OrangeObserver.com

1. Decide to refuse a district device and complete the Device Refusal Form.

2. Review the BYOD Buying Guide to ensure the device you are considering meets district specifications. Log in to the Chrome browser and Google Drive with the OCPS student email address before bringing the device on campus. The OCPS student email address is studentid@students.ocps.net.

Student passwords can be reset by contacting the school.

3. Check in with the school TSR on the first day the device is brought on campus to ensure it is properly connected to the OCPS network.

and blowing out the keys and ports.

His son called him and said the school told him the device looked great. Then, the family was hit with a $150 fine for a laptop they had not had in their possession since he attended Bridgewater Middle School.

“That one allegedly had a small crack in it, $50, the second was returned because of a hardware malfunction within a day or two of receiving it, $100,” Bell said. “We had it for two days. Can’t even argue over it because we haven’t had them in years and could never prove the issue. ... They literally took the laptop and threatened to withhold graduation privileges if it wasn’t paid for immediately.”

Bell said his concern is there was no way to appeal or dispute the fine.

“I used to be on a board of a school district back in New York, and I understand there’s a level of personal responsibility when you take a device like this from a school and lose it,” he said. “But to be charged years later for devices we haven’t seen. ... Why wasn’t it brought up then or why did we not pay for it back then?”

TECHNICIAN’S EXPERIENCE

As a previous employee in technology support for OCPS and a parent of a daughter who attends Windermere High, Jeffrey Birgenheier said he sees both sides of the issue.

Birgenheier started working at

OCPS a few years ago in November 2020 at Lake Nona High School as its technology support and then moved to Olympia High School in May 2021.

He no longer works for OCPS. When he worked at Lake Nona, the school received a bill from OCPS for about $20,000, and he expects other schools also owe thousands of dollars.

“Often, these fines come from laptops they should have put fines on but did not, because no one noticed it when seniors turned it in,” he said. “A majority of laptops are being accepted by the media center (personnel), who have not received any training on how to inspect. They just look for major issues. Then if a kid graduates and owes $600 for the computer and it gets inspected two months later, when will they ever get that money or refund back? The school ends up paying, but the school doesn’t want to pay.”

He said although OCPS always has had these policies in place, now more people are getting fined because of a new policy put in place last summer.

Birgenheier said the new policy involves a software system that only allows a laptop to be put in for repair if it has an associated fine.

“You used to be able to send a laptop to repair without a fine, but the change means you have to submit a fine with the repair for the vendor, meaning you have to find a student to attach the fine to,” he said.

Birgenheier said his daughter just graduated and turned in her laptop. She received a fine Birgenheier believes was not justified.

Birgenheier gave his daughter’s laptop a thorough inspection and did not find anything wrong with it.

“I got ahold of the assistant principal, who was supposed to be able to waive fines,” Birgenheier said. “I had to email several times before getting a phone call, and she said she would look into it and get back to me, and then I never heard back. I ended up just paying the fine, because otherwise my daughter would have never been able to walk in graduation.”

Although he said he believes in fines and responsibility, he thinks there is a better way to go about the process.

Birgenheier said the schools he worked at required an internal inspection sheet to be filled out prior to a student accepting a device, but that was not an OCPS requirement.

|

7

THURSDAY, MAY 26, 2022

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

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

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

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

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

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OBSERVER

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OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, MAY 26, 2022

Fresh face Philip Koovakada recently was named the new president of Orlando Health — Health Central Hospital in Ocoee.

ANNABELLE SIKES STAFF WRITER

Orlando Health has named Philip Koovakada as the new president of the Orlando Health — Health Central Hospital in Ocoee.

Koovakada will serve as the senior leader of the location and coordinate the region’s operations with Orlando Health’s senior executive team.

“Philip comes to us with an outstanding background with broad experience in acute and outpatient care, quality improvement, strategic development, and operational and financial management,” said Jamal Hakim, chief operating officer at Orlando Health. “He will be a dynamic, optimistic, forwardthinking leader, and I’m eager for him to join our team.”

Koovakada, who began his new role in April, brings with him a long background in health care.

He earned a bachelor’s in nursing from the University of St. Francis, a master’s in nursing and a master’s in health care administration from California State University — Long Beach. He is a member of the American College of Healthcare Executives.

The new president comes to Orlando Health from Baptist Health System in San Antonio, Texas, where he served as president and CEO for St. Luke’s Baptist Hospital.

Prior to his role in San Antonio, Koovakada served as the chief executive officer for NMC Health Network in Nacogdoches, Texas, and held various leadership roles for Tenet in Nacogdoches and Palm Springs,

NOW LEASING

California.

“It’s truly an honor and a privilege to be selected,” Koovakada said.

“They (Orlando Health) wanted to make sure they selected the right fit, and I wanted to make sure this was the right fit for me, and I believe it truly is the right fit. For me, the responsibility does not go unnoticed. I mean, it’s something that I carry with myself every single day with every action and decision we make.”

NURSING JOURNEY

Koovakada’s initial career aspirations weren’t in health care.

His parents are from India, and his mom immigrated to the United States in pursuit of her nursing career.

Koovakada was born and raised in Chicago and went on to study business, after his father, who was an entrepreneur.

He said one day he had somebody come into his class and talk about nursing, which is when he decided he wanted to pursue a new career path.

He was accepted into nursing school and began his clinical rotations. Those first few experiences in the field were transformative.

As a student nurse, Koovakada was taking care of his first patient, who was a quadriplegic, and his wife. Although he only spent a few days with the couple, his patient’s wife thanked him at the end for spending time with them and making an impact during one of the hardest times in their lives.

“That kind of just resonated with me, and ever since that happened,

Models Open Daily

Courtesy photo

Philip Koovakada is the new president of Orlando Health — Health Central Hospital.

health care was my passion,” Koovakada said. “There was no other field for me at that point, and that’s kind of how I live and breathe.”

Koovakada said health care is an interesting industry, and as employees in the industry, they often deal with complex situations.

“Unfortunately, we’re not like the Hyatt or Four Seasons,” he said.

“People don’t come to us because they want to come to us. They come to us because they’re in crisis, and it’s our responsibility, our requirement, and obligation to this community to make sure we can guide them throughout that entire time; be their light in that time of darkness, so that’s what drives me every single day.”

COMMUNITY CHARACTER

Although Koovakada only has been in the West Orange area for a few

“You just see and feel the community and how much it cares for each other, and how much it wants to grow with each other, and how much it wants to support each othe. Not only that, but how much the community really cares about Orlando Health and Health Central. …”

weeks, he feels embedded in the community. He’s already attended a few events, including the 2022 Education Awards Ceremony at West Orange High School and a legislative session at the West Orange Chamber of Commerce.

“You just see and feel the community and how much it cares for each other, and how much it wants to grow with each other, and how much it wants to support each other,” he said. “Not only that, but how much the community really cares about Orlando Health and Health Central. To me, being able to feel that … it makes me more passionate about what we do every single day.”

Koovakada said the reality is Orlando Health and its patients are also a community, as well.

“When I look at it holistically, I look at it as every single patient that comes through our doors, every staff member that comes through our doors, should be treated as our family, and that’s the barometer for me,” he said. “The barometer of, ‘Are we creating a climate in which you’d want your family to work in?

Are we creating an environment in which you’d want your family to be cared in?’ And if the answer is 100% yes, then we’re doing something right.”

Koovakada said his first goal as president is to understand and learn about the community.

He said he wants to learn which direction to grow in with the community and what programs the community needs to thrive.

One of his biggest priorities is meeting the community’s needs during the rapid continuation of growth in the area.

“The work that our team does day in and day out to care for the community — you see that impact every day … we are one team that cares for one community,” Koovakada said.

“And that is what we will continue to do as we continue to learn.”

— Philip Koovakada

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OrangeObserver.com

OBSERVER

|

THURSDAY, MAY 26, 2022

9

Many Warrior graduates showed off their own unique styles at commencement.

West Orange High School hosted its 2022 graduation at Additional Financial Arena.

See ya later, West Orange seniors!

Commencement capped many years of hard work for the West Orange Class of 2022.

W

Right: The day was filled with an enormous sense of pride.

Although each will depart from West Orange High, the seniors always will share these memories.

382284-1

Photos courtesy of Thomas Lightbody | TK Photography

Graduates enjoyed inspirational words from several speakers.

est Orange High School celebrated its Class of 2022 at commencement Monday, May 16, at Addition Financial Arena at the University of Central Florida.

The newest Warrior graduates enjoyed several speeches, including one from valedictorian Sean Herlihy, before receiving their diplomas from Principal Matt Turner.

10

OBSERVER

|

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, MAY 26, 2022

Bhaskar Gnanasakthi and Rithvik Rajkumar had many ribbons that represented the variety of clubs in which they participated.

Windermere High celebrates Class of 2022 W indermere High School hosted its 2022 graduation ceremony on the morning of Wednesday, May 18, at the Amway Center. Seniors were all smiles as their high school journey came to an end as they are excited about what the future endeavors hold for them. Parents and relatives of the graduates waited in line under the hot Florida sun, some with flowers and others with balloons, as they prepared to enter the arena.

Graduate Madeline Icho, who played her cello during the orchestra presentation at the ceremony, attended with her mom, Vi Taylor.

Eduardo Rivera, Edgar Rivera, Gaddier Garcia-Aldaza, Seth Swanick and a fellow graduate were excited for the ceremony to start.

The Amway Center was packed with Windermere high graduates, their families and teachers.

Vinicius Dias visited with his family before the ceremony.

Right: Maddie Grubb and Miya Skretteberg helped each other put on wristbands before entering the arena.

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|

THURSDAY, MAY 26, 2022

11

Foundation Class of 2022 turns tassels

Amy Quesinberry

Streamers and the traditional cap toss conclude the Class of 2022 graduation ceremony.

Daniel Harrington, Kyle Binkley, Lance Birk, Bowman Bower, Donni Branch and Dylan Haffner paused before walking into the auditorium for the graduation ceremony.

Thomas Lightbody | TK Photography

T

he Lions Class of 2022 at Foundation Academy had plenty to celebrate as they walked across the stage Thursday, May 19, to mark the end of their highschool days.

Nathan Andrews gave the valedictorian address, and salutatorian Ian Garcia addressed the graduates and families. Makenzie Daniel read the class verse: 2 Timothy 1:7 — “For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.”

Florida Supreme Court Justice Jamie R. Grosshans was the guest speaker. Diplomas were presented to graduates

by David Buckles, president; Carol Grosshans, vice president of education; and Sarah Reynolds, principal of the Tilden campus.

Thomas Lightbody | TK Photography

Justin Williams was one of 67 seniors participating in the May 19 graduation.

Thomas Lightbody | TK Photography

A group of friends pause for a selfie before graduation begins.

r a e Y w e N it’s Time to $ave

Thomas Lightbody | TK Photography

Nathan Andrews gave the valedictorian address to classmates and families.

— AMY QUESINBERRY

Fall is coming

Left: Aaron Amat made last-minute adjustments to his cap before entering the auditorium.

Left: President David Buckles joins graduates for a final photo before the graduation ceremonies began.

Thomas Lightbody | TK Photography

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REAL ESTATE

OBSERVER

|

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, MAY 26, 2022

Isleworth estate sells for $2.1 million A

home in the Isleworth

RUBY LAKE

Orange-area residential

The home at 11655 Meadow Grove Circle, Orlando, sold May 16, for $1,000,666. Built in 2018, it has four bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 4,008 square feet.

Days on market: Seven.

real-estate transactions

SAND LAKE COVE

community in Win-

dermere topped all West

The home at 7918 Bayflower Way, Orlando, sold May 16, for $756,500.

Built in 1997, it has six bedrooms, three baths and 2,871 square feet of living area. Days on market: Five.

from May 14 to 20.

The home at 6119 Payne Stewart Drive, Winder-

SOMERSET SHORES

mere, sold May 20, for $2.1 million. Built in 1988, it has three bedrooms, three-

realtor.com

and-one-half baths and

The home at 6119 Payne Stewart Drive, Windermere, sold May 20, for $2.1 million. This golf villa is situated along the shores of Lake Chase.

2,836 square feet of living

BAY LAKES AT GRANADA

selling homes in each com-

The home at 8017 Gillette Court, Orlando, sold May 23, for $650,000. Built in 1981, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 1,983 square feet of living area. Days on market: Five.

munity in West Orange.

BAY VISTA ESTATES

area. Days on market: 192.

These are the highest-

DR. PHILLIPS BAY HILL

The home at 8980 Crichton Wood Drive, Orlando, sold May 16, for $937,500. Built in 1974, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 3,841 square feet of living area. Days on market: Four.

The home at 8909 Turnberry Court, Orlando, sold May 18, for $655,000. Built in 1980, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,962 square feet of living area. Days on market: 27.

The home at 9197 Bay Hill Blvd., Orlando, sold May 19, for $700,000. Built in 1973, it has five bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 3,378 square feet of living area. Days on market: One.

The home at 6253 Indian Meadow St., Orlando, sold May 16, for $200,000 (short sale). Built in 1984, it has five bedrooms, four baths and 3,686 square feet of living area. Days on market: One. DIAMOND COVE

The home at 8013 Glitter Court, Orlando, sold May 20, for $715,000. Built in 1996, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 3,253 square feet of living area.

SOUTH BAY VILLAS

The home at 9012 Shawn Park Place, Orlando, sold May 19, for $919,000. Built in 1988, it has four bedrooms, three baths, two half-baths and 3,146 square feet of living area. Days on market: 157.

VISTA CAY AT HARBOR SQUARE

The condo at 4802 Cayview Ave., No. 101, Orlando, sold May 20, for $379,900. Built in 2006, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,247 square feet of living area.

Days on market: Four.

The home at 8503 Sand Lake Shores Drive, Orlando, sold May 16, for $1,270,000. Built in 1995, it has three bedrooms, threeand-one-half baths and 3,461 square feet of living area. Days on market: 17.

BAYVIEW

The home at 7541 Somerset Shores Court, Orlando, sold May 16, for $598,000. Built in 1990, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 2,704 square feet of living area. Days on market: Four.

WINDERWOOD realtor.com

The home at 8402 Ludington Circle, Orlando, sold May 16, for $1.9 million. It was the largest transaction in Dr. Phillips from May 14 to 20.

six bedrooms, five-and-one-half baths and 5,778 square feet of living area. Days on market: 11.

SNAPSHOT

Total Sales: 72 High Sale Price: $2.1 million Low Sale Price: $190,000

HIDDEN SPRINGS

The home at 6016 Pitch Pine Drive, Orlando, sold May 18, for $615,000. Built in 1986, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,258 square feet of living area. Days on market: Three.

ESTATES AT PARKSIDE

The home at 8402 Ludington Circle, Orlando, sold May 16, for $1.9 million. Built in 2017, it has

The home at 5367 Abelia Drive, Orlando, sold May 18, for $530,000. Built in 1983, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,074 square feet of living area. Days on market: 10.

HORIZON WEST

CARRINGTON TOWNHOMES

The townhouse at 8642 Via Tavoleria Way sold May 19, for $430,000. Built in 2014, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 1,919 square feet of living area. Days on market: Four.

SEE REAL ESTATE PAGE 14

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but our gratitude is endless

OrangeObserver.com

OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, MAY 26, 2022

West Orange Chamber of Commerce

Celebrates Business

West Orange Chamber of Commerce celebrates the 60-year anniversary of Epilepsy Association of Central Florida The West Orange Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors celebrated the 60-year anniversary of Epilepsy Association of Central Florida. Located at 109 N. Kirkman Ave. in Orlando, the Epilepsy Association is dedicated to improving the quality of life for persons affected by epilepsy. They are a local direct service agency, where 100 percent of their funds serve the citizens of Central Florida. To learn more, visit www.epilepsyassociation.com.

West Orange Chamber of Commerce celebrates the grand opening of PetSuites Stay & Play The West Orange Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors celebrated the grand opening of PetSuites Stay & Play. Located at 12100 W. Colonial Drive in Winter Garden, PetSuites is the leader of the pack in pet resorts, offering exceptional boarding and daycare services for both dogs and cats, as well as grooming and training services for dogs. To learn more, visit wintergarden. petsuitesofamerica.com

West Orange Chamber of Commerce celebrates the 15-year anniversary of Palm Casual The West Orange Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors celebrated the 15-year anniversary of Palm Casual. Located at 17175 W. Colonial Drive in Oakland, Palm Casual offers the highest quality outdoor furniture paired with world-class service because they are the factory. Their showrooms make the buying process as easy as possible, and their factories help provide quick turnaround and long-term service. To learn more, visit www. palmcasual.com/locations/west-orlando/.

West Orange Chamber of Commerce celebrates the grand opening of Harry Levine Insurance The West Orange Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors celebrated the grand opening of the new location of Harry Levine Insurance. Located at 7208 W. Sand Lake Road, Ste 206 in the Dr. Phillips part of Orlando, Harry Levine Insurance embarks on a mission to simplify insurance by providing customized advice on your unique circumstances.

They want you to understand your coverage so that you feel safe and secure. To learn more, visit www. harrylevineinsurance.com.

The West Orange Chamber recognizes and applauds our long-standing member businesses for their continued commitment to Advancing Community, Collaboration and Leadership.

Congratulations on Membership Milestones to:

20 YEARS

Holston Properties & Development

15 YEARS

The Real Estate Collection, LLC

5 YEARS

Argos Builders, LLC Congresswoman Val Demings Greater Orlando Builders Association

THE WEST ORANGE CHAMBER OFFERS 4 NETWORKING GROUPS

TUESDAY, WEDNESDAY, THURSDAY & HORIZON WEST To learn more and to register for participation visit wochamber.com/ChamberGroups or call 407-656-1304

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OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, MAY 26, 2022

REAL ESTATE

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

PRINT

realtor.com

The home at 14350 United Colonies Drive, Winter Garden, sold May 19, for $1,751,000. It was the largest transaction in Horizon West from May 14 to 20.

New edition every Thursday!

EDEN’S HAMMOCK

Scan QR Code to find your closest big red box location.

The townhouse at 14036 Bridgewater Crossings Blvd., Windermere, sold May 18, for $405,000. Built in 2006, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,629 square feet. Days on market: Two. INDEPENDENCE/SIGNATURE LAKES

The home at 15662 Signature Drive, Winter Garden, sold May 17, for $500,100. Built in 2012, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,840 square feet. Days on market: Three.

LAKES OF WINDERMERE

The home at 6700 Romney Lane, Windermere, sold May 20, for $659,000.

Built in 2005, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,957 square feet. Days on market: Four.

ONLINE Find the latest news updated daily on Orangeobserver.com

The home at 12513 Overstreet Road, Windermere, sold May 20, for $509,000. Built in 2009, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,963 square feet. Days on market: 13.

LATHAM PARK NORTH

The home at 14160 Shocklach Drive, Winter Garden, sold May 20, for $635,000. Built in 2018, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 2,691 square feet. Days on market: Four.

EMAIL

NEWBURY PARK

The home at 9048 Leeland Archer Blvd., Orlando, sold May 23, for $570,000. Built in 2007, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,411 square feet. Days on market: Five.

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ORCHARD HILLS

The home at 14361 Orchard Hills Blvd., Winter Garden, sold May 20, for $580,000. Built in 2015, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,342 square feet. Days on market: Four.

SO C I A L

OVERLOOK AT HAMLIN

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The home at 14350 United Colonies Drive, Winter Garden, sold May 19, for $1,751,000. Built in 2016, it has four bedrooms, four baths, two half-baths and 4,373 square feet. Days on market: Five.

STOREY GROVE

The home at 15211 Book Club Road, Winter Garden, sold May 19, for $511,000. Built in 2019, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,042 square feet. Days on market: Five.

SUMMERLAKE

P O D CAST

The home at 15022 Wild Lime Lane, Winter Garden, sold May 19, for

$667,500. Built in 2016, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,750 square feet. Days on market: 19.

SUMMERPORT

The home at 4926 Indian Deer Road, Windermere, sold May 17, for $825,000.

Built in 2006, it has five bedrooms, five baths and 3,849 square feet. Days on market: Four.

WATERLEIGH

The home at 16066 Bayou Crest Drive, Winter Garden, sold May 16, for $572,000. Built in 2018, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 2,477 square feet.

WATERLEIGH

The home at 8637 Bayview Crossing Drive, Winter Garden, sold May 20, for $610,000. Built in 2015, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,180 square feet. Days on market: Three.

WATERLEIGH

The home at 9546 Nautique Lane, Winter Garden, sold May 20, for $525,000.

Built in 2019, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,014 square feet. Days on market: 12.

WINDERMERE SOUND

The home at 7487 Fairgrove Ave., Windermere, sold May 20, for $565,000.

Built in 2015, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 2,459 square feet. Days on market: Six. WINDERMERE TRAILS

The home at 8746 Lookout Pointe Drive, Windermere, sold May 19, for $650,000. Built in 2015, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 2,646 square feet. Days on market: Three.

OAKLAND

OAKLAND TRAILS

The home at 1823 Standing Rock Circle, Oakland, sold May 16, for $535,000.

Built in 2018, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,221 square feet. Days on market: Six. The home at 1991 Standing Rock Circle, Winter Garden, sold May 19, for $479,000. Built in 2018, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,744 square feet. Days on market: Six.

OCOEE

ARDEN PARK NORTH

The home at 1817 Lake Sims Parkway, Ocoee, sold May 20, for $545,000. Built in 2019, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,543 square feet.

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OrangeObserver.com

FAIRFAX VILLAGE

The home at 271 Wescliff Drive, Ocoee, sold May 19, for $500,000. Built in 1993, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 1,875 square feet. Days on market: Three.

LAKEVIEW

The home at 612 Cardinal St., Ocoee, sold May 16, for $337,000. Built in 1957, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,746 square feet. Days on market: 26.

NORTH OCOEE ADDITION

The home at 130 12th Ave., Ocoee, sold May 19, for $382,000. Built in 2007, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 1,660 square feet. Days on market: Two. OCOEE RESERVE

The home at 2576 Ocoee Reserve Court, Ocoee, sold May 23, for $395,000. Built in 2020, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,601 square feet. Days on market: Four.

PRESERVE AT CROWN POINT

The home at 1838 Merrivale Loop, Ocoee, sold May 16, for $490,000. Built in 2019, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,875 square feet. Days on market: 21.

The home at 2067 Farnham Drive, Ocoee, sold May 20, for $493,900. Built in 2020, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,874 square feet. Days on market: Two. SOUTH SPRINGDALE

The home at 1218 Blue Spring Court, Ocoee, sold May 16, for $289,900. Built in 1979, it has three bedrooms, one bath and 1,225 square feet. Days on market: Eight.

SPRING LAKE RESERVE

The home at 1105 Eagle Run Way, Ocoee, sold May 18, for $450,000. Built in 2015, it has three bedrooms, twoand-one-half baths and 2,100 square feet. Days on market: Six. VERONICA PLACE

The home at 347 Kaila Court, Ocoee, sold May 16, for $385,000. Built in 1999, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,468 square feet. Days on market: 12.

WATERSIDE

The home at 2887 Cullens Court, Ocoee, sold May 17, for $430,000. Built in 1998, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 1,895 square feet. Days on market: Nine.

WESMERE

The home at 442 Crofton Drive, Ocoee, sold May 16, for $657,500. Built in 1992, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,819 square feet. Days on market: Three.

WESTYN BAY

The home at 3015 Cardassi Drive, Ocoee, sold May 16, for $600,000. Built in 2007, it has six bedrooms, threeand-one-half baths and 3,759 square feet. Days on market: 26.

The home at 2550 Azzurra Lane, Ocoee, sold May 23, for $535,000. Built in 2004, it has five bedrooms, three baths and 3,186 square feet. Days on market: 15.

WINDSOR LANDING

The home at 178 Sagecrest Drive, Ocoee, sold May 17, for $790,000. Built in 2002, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 3,354 square feet. Days on market: Two.

SOUTHWEST ORANGE ROYAL LEGACY ESTATES

The home at 9517 Prince Harry Drive, Orlando, sold May 17, for $615,000.

Built in 2018, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,464 square feet. Days on market: Two.

OBSERVER

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15

THURSDAY, MAY 26, 2022

WEST ORANGE TILDENS GROVE

The home at 12848 Jacob Grace Court, Windermere, sold May 16, for $1,188,700. Built in 2003, it has four bedrooms, four baths and 4,077 square feet. Days on market: 11.

WINDERMERE ISLEWORTH

The home at 6119 Payne Stewart Drive, Windermere, sold May 20, for $2.1 million. Built in 1988, it has three bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 2,836 square feet. Days on market: 192.

RESERVE AT BELMERE

The home at 1530 Lake Rhea Drive, Windermere, sold May 19, for $1,005,000. Built in 2004, it has five bedrooms, four baths and 3,568 square feet. Days on market: Five.

The home at 1548 Lake Rhea Drive, Windermere, sold May 16, for $892,500. Built in 2003, it has four bedrooms, four baths and 3,413 square feet.

Days on market: Four.

WINTER GARDEN

ALEXANDER RIDGE

The home at 2106 Cestius Road, Winter Garden, sold May 20, for $630,000.

Built in 2015, it has four bedrooms, four baths and 2,561 square feet. Days on market: Four.

BAPTIST

AVALON COVE

The home at 9056 Morgana Court, Winter Garden, sold May 19, for $2 million. Built in 2021, it has five bedrooms, five baths and 4,832 square feet. Days on market: Four.

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

BLACK LAKE PARK

The home at 776 Rainfall Drive, Winter Garden, sold May 16, for $550,000.

Built in 2007, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,238 square feet. Days on market: 13.

2nd Campus: First Baptist Church @ Horizon West 15304 Tilden Road, Winter Garden Sundays: 9:45 AM All Ages www.FBCWG.org

BRADFORD CREEK

The home at 14450 Sunbridge Circle, Winter Garden, sold May 16, for $650,000. Built in 2017, it has four bedrooms, four baths and 2,821 square feet.

Days on market: Four.

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

CYPRESS RESERVE

The home at 14032 Jomatt Loop, Winter Garden, sold May 17, for $650,000.

Built in 2018, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,952 square feet. Days on market: Eight.

FULLERS OAK

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

The home at 1815 Fullers Oak Loop, Winter Garden, sold May 16, for $790,000. Built in 2018, it has seven bedrooms, four baths and 4,700 square feet. Days on market: 41.

MCALLISTER LANDING

The home at 1505 Juniper Hammock St., Winter Garden, sold May 18, for $690,000. Built in 2019, it has six bedrooms, four baths and 4,194 square feet. Days on market: 68.

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

STONEYBROOK WEST

The home at 15157 Spinnaker Cove Lane, Winter Garden, sold May 18, for $540,000. Built in 2005, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,140 square feet. Days on market: Seven.

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

Moving Forward Program Offerings

WATERSIDE

The home at 1473 Viscaya Cove Blvd., Winter Garden, sold May 19, for $470,595. Built in 2022, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 2,492 square feet.

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

WINTER GARDEN

The home at 14314 Ellerbee St., Winter Garden, sold May 18, for $720,000.

Built in 1980, it has two bedrooms, one bath and 1,304 square feet on 1.2 acres.

Days on market: 374.

TEXT “MHM” TEXT TO 4 1 4 4 4 TO DONATE “MHM” TO 4 1 4 4 4 This isTO a secure site for giving DONATE

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CALL (407) 656-2121 or email AdvertiseNow@orangeobserver.com realtor.com

The home at 9056 Morgana Court, Winter Garden, sold May 19, for $2 million. It was the largest transaction in Winter Garden from May 14 to 20.

Help Us. Help Them. 611 Business Park

(407) 905-9500

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OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, MAY 26, 2022

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INFLUENCER OF THE WEEK

OBSERVER

What brought you to your school?

Having the opportunity to be a part of opening a brand-new high school is so uncommon. It is a process that most athletic directors and administrators don’t ever get to be a part of in their careers. The challenge and excitement of being a part of something from literally the ground up was the biggest thing that drew me into being a part of the Horizon community.

What do you love most about your school?

Our students and community!

Without a doubt, they are the most amazing part of being a Hawk. They are passionate, hardworking, curious and spirited.

REPORT CARD POSITION: Athletics Director TIME AT SCHOOL: One year TIME WITH OCPS: 10 years

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they could — both in and out of the athletic arena. For an athletic director, two of the proudest days of the year are National Signing Day and graduation. Those are moments when you see things come full circle in a culmination of a student-athlete’s hard work.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

Athletic directors don’t get a lot of free time, but when we do, I love to golf; travel with my wife, Kristen; spend days on the boat with friends; and hang out with our dogs, Hank and Merle!

Who was your favorite teacher when you were in school? Why? My third-grade teacher Mr. Valenti.

I remember how he could find the perfect balance of kindness and compassion coupled with toughness and high expectations.

When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up? I wanted to be a police officer or work in law enforcement. My grandfather was a police officer, and my dad was a military police officer in the U.S. Army. I grew up with a huge appreciation for the service and sacrifice that first responders provide for our communities.

NOMINATE YOUR INFLUENCER Do you have an “unsung hero”

JOIN TODAY

ymcacf.org

at your school? If so, please nominate him or her for our Influencer of the Week feature. Nominations can be sent via email to contact@orangeobserver.com.

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The YMCA of Central Florida is a nonprofit dedicated to strengthening our community.

Scott Drabczyk is the athletic director at Horizon High School. Drabczyk oversees 44 sports programs on campus, including student-athlete compliance, oversight of 70 coaches, all athletic facility maintenance and upkeep, department fundraising and finances, and game-day operations. In addition, he works as the school’s Partners in Education coordinator and oversees all field trips and transportation schedules.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

Getting to witness student-athletes achieve things they never thought

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SCOTT DRABCZYK, HORIZON HIGH SCHOOL

What is your motivation?

That is hard to scale down to one simple answer. The student-athlete and coach experience is ultimately what drives me every single day. Our saying in the athletic office is “to provide the championship experience with integrity.” So to sum it up, we want to provide our studentathletes and coaches everything they need to win championships. Twenty years from now, I want our studentathletes to look back at their experience in high school and wish they could go back and do it again.

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OrangeObserver.com

OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, MAY 26, 2022

17

OBSERVER SCHOOL ZONE FROM OPPOSITE PAGE

What is your favorite children’s book and why?

“Oh, the Places You’ll Go” by Dr. Seuss. It doesn’t matter if you are a child or an adult, that short book applies to all ages!

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

Tough question; can I just be a Jedi?

FUMC preschool director to retire years, but for now they intend to travel locally and spend time with their children, who live in Montverde, Jupiter and Bradenton, and their grandchildren, Charlie and Emily Terenzio. She said she might consider going back to work parttime, possibly doing some VPK consulting work.

“The scariest is figuring out the next chapter in life,” she said.

Longtime Learning Center Director Wendy Davis is stepping down. Lily Frets will take her place.

AMY QUESINBERRY

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

Garth Brooks, Kenny Chesney and George Strait. I love how country music tells a story in every song.

There’s not much better than a summer evening and a country music concert!

What was your go-to lunch as an elementary student? Any favorite snacks or special treats you remember?

I mean, what was better than pizza Fridays in the cafeteria?

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

We had a group of best friends growing up in Palm Coast, Florida, that we all still talk to and make time to see each other as much as possible. When you grow up in a small town, you never really lose touch with those special people.

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

I was a member of our golf and baseball teams in high school as well as a part of Key Club and Fellowship of Christian Athletes.

I was a four-year varsity letterwinner in golf and a three-year captain. I was blessed to have the opportunity to sign to play golf in college at Flagler College and Bethune-Cookman University.

— ANNABELLE SIKES

COMMUNITY EDITOR

Wendy Davis always has had a passion for helping shape children’s futures through preschool and Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten education. She spent 14 years teaching in a classroom at the First United Methodist Learning Center Preschool, in Winter Garden, and then served as director for the last seven years.

It’s time to retire and allow someone else to lead the school, she said.

Lily Frets, who spent several years as Davis’ assistant, has been appointed the new director.

Davis took over the director’s position in 2015 after the original director, Patty Tate, retired. One of Davis’ daughters was in Tate’s first class in 1992. After a short term as an assistant, Davis left and returned in 2001, serving as a 3-year-old teacher before moving up to the 4-yearold class and then VPK. “It has been a wonderful experience,” she said. “I just can’t say enough about the staff. They just pull us through all the time. … We’ve had some situations that have been immediate … and we’ve always pulled through together to make it happen — and that’s part of our success as a preschool.”

When Davis’ husband, Brad, had a medical emergency a few years ago, she had complete faith her staff could continue to run the program in her absence.

The preschool has grown significantly during her years there.

VPK was added in 2010, and that’s when Davis made the switch to that classroom. It started with nearly 70 students and expanded to more than 100. When COVID-19 hit, enrollment temporarily dipped, she said,

NEW DIRECTOR

Amy Quesinberry

Lily Frets, left, is assuming the role of director being vacated by Wendy Davis, right. Frets’ assistant, Jennifer Jenkins, will take her place in the classroom.

Lily Frets, right, will become the FUMC Learning Center’s third director. Patty Tate, center, opened the preschool in 1992, and Wendy Davis has been director since 2015.

Courtesy photo

but the school was able to maintain its staff. The student numbers are on the rise again.

Davis said she will miss the connection with the children the most.

“Just coming in and having the kids, seeing the kids because they just make your day with their smiles and their love,” she said. “And seeing and just having a rapport with the parents … and watching the kids grow and getting to know the families as they travel through the school.”

She said she’s grateful to the First United Methodist Church of Winter Garden for giving the preschool the

CONGRATULATIONS

space to thrive and make an impact in the community.

“Our families have all come wordof-mouth since I’ve been here, and it’s just great to have that reputation,” Davis said. “Patty always said, ‘It will always work out … and tomorrow’s going to be another day.’

And Pastor Rusty (Belcher) said to me when I first started … ‘I just want you to remember to have a servant’s heart and it will be OK.’ “I always live by those words, and I think we did OK,” Davis said.

Davis said she and her husband will take some time to figure out how they want to spend their retirement

Frets is excited about her new role at the preschool. Her first experience with the Learning Center was in 2004, when her children attended there. Her son was in Davis’ 4-year-old class.

“I love this school so much,” she said. “I just wanted to continue with its wonderful (program). It’s a great school (and) you just want to keep it going.”

Originally hired as the KinderGym teacher in 2008, Frets became Davis’ assistant in the 4-year-old program in 2010 and a classroom teacher when Davis started as director.

Traditions are important, Frets said, and she wants to continue events such as Muffins with Mom and Doughnuts with Dad — and even bring back some old traditions, including Grandparents Day and participation in the Winter Garden Christmas Parade and the fall festival. She wants to add more VPK classes and possibly incorporate a Spanish language learning program and Little Kickers soccer program.

“I’m going to miss being in the classroom,” Frets said. “I used to have 12 kids; I get the whole school now. I’m looking forward to that and dealing with the families. I’m a person person. I love people.”

Classroom assistant Jennifer Jenkins will replace Frets in her former position. Jenkins’ mother, Diane Holton, was a teacher at the preschool, and Jenkins’ child has attended the preschool.

“It’s a great mom job,” Frets said.

“It’s conducive with their schedule.”

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OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, MAY 26, 2022

THESE OLD TIMES

FROM THE WINTER GARDEN HERITAGE FOUNDATION

THROWBACK THURSDAY MAY 28, 1992 Winter Garden was selected for the Florida Main Street USA program in 1991, and Main Street Winter Garden was established. This program was administered by the Florida Bureau of Historic Preservation to help small and medium-sized cities reverse downtown blight.

The following year, the Community Redevelopment Agency was created.

MSWG morphed into the Winter Garden Heritage Foundation in 1994, and a historic property survey was conducted. The first phase of the West Orange Trail was created. The next year, an architectural, structural and marketing analysis of the vacant Edgewater Hotel for potential future use. Downtown Winter Garden received designation as a historic district in 1997.

From 2001 to 2003, a $4.5 million streetscape enhancement project changed the face of Plant Street. The Garden Theatre was refurbished and opened in 2008. Also that year, a new, modern City Hall was constructed and the Winter Garden Farmers Market started. In 2011, the open-air pavilion was built, and the splash park was created.

80 years ago

Winter Garden had its first surprise blackout. Luckily, the town was completely black in a period of only minutes.

Lakeview High School graduated 32 students at the annual commencement exercises.

West Orange’s Defense Canning Kitchen opened in the room formerly occupied by the Ocoee Trade School. Persons were allowed to go and do their canning under the personal supervision of a canning expert.

75 years ago

Joe Burch of Winter Garden, not wanting to spend a dull summer at home, was on his way to Alaska with three friends from college in Lakeland. They expected to make it to Fairbanks and back in a 1934 Ford.

FROM THE ARCHIVES

70 years ago

We will always remember the men and women who died while serving in our country’s armed forces.

Their sacrifice is greatly appreciated.

Photographed is the Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall, which was exhibited at the West Orange VFW Post 4305 in Winter Garden in 2006.

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.

55 years ago

The newest addition to Winter Garden’s ever-growing attractions for sportsmen was the establishment of the new driving range at 601 W. Story Road.

50 years ago

The West Orange Chamber of Commerce sponsored a barbecue at the Winter Garden Recreational Park to pay tribute to retired Orange County Sheriff Dave Starr, who served for 23 years.

Fred Savage, who taught biology and chemistry at Lakeview High School, was honored as Outstand-

ing Science Teacher of Orange County by the Central Florida Section of the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics.

The award was announced at the annual meeting held at McCoy Air Force Base.

45 years ago

The Rev. Charlene Payne Kammerer, formerly of Winter Garden, was the first woman to receive full ministerial orders of the United Methodist Church.

30 years ago

Ocoee Middle School students in David Rhea’s Industrial Technology Club used their skills to renovate a home in Oakland. Students leveled the house, remodeled the kitchen and bathroom, and repainted the home belonging to Alberta Cook and her daughter, Rosa Lee Mosby.

Jim Passilla announced his retirement after 28 years with Walt Disney World. The senior vice president of human resources of Disney Worldwide Services Inc. planned to step down that October.

Buster Dodd was named Winter Garden Elk of the Year.

crossword

celebrity cipher

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66 Raises a glass DOWN 67 Adjective for us 1 Smell or sight 70 Middle Eastern grp.

2 Didn’t leave standing 71 Kristen of “Bridesmaids” outside 72 No longer neutral?

3 Fruit drink suffix 73 Bench press unit 4 Caused damage to 74 “On the Road” narrator 5 Introduction to an hom- 75 It cost 21-30 cents per age? gallon in the 1920s 6 Noah’s vessel 79 Fresh attempt 7 ___ & Perrins steak sauce 81 Curmudgeon, maybe 8 Solemn service 83 Tennis star Naomi ... or 9 Raggedy Ann’s brother her Japanese birthplace 10 “In this way” 84 Prepared, as a pan 11 Friend’s opposite 86 Borders on 12 At least one 89 Ceremonial acts 13 Joined, as a contest 90 Very much 14 Cute mistake 91 Egg holder 15 S.F.’s region 93 Fish in an unagi roll 16 Sewing kit cylinders 95 Became attached 17 Daisy or Donald 97 Current to avoid 18 Decay 98 “His ___” (Michael 20 Drill sergeant’s title, Jordan nickname) perhaps 100 Swindled 22 Pixar picture 101 Place to grab a bite 27 Smithy’s furnace 102 What has you covered?

29 One of the Kardashians 103 Nat who led an upris31 Midwestern airport near ing in 1831 Midway 105 Lacking strength 32 2007 Heisman Trophy 109 Rested on a bench winner Tim 111 Frequent hangout 34 Egg in a fertility clinic 112 Pundits’ newspaper 35 Belgrade resident pieces 38 Be in the running 113 Julia’s “Ocean’s Eleven” 40 “Mmm, scrumptious!” role 41 Pronoun for Supergirl 115 “Far out!”

42 Sincere desire 117 Like fine wine 43 Difficult endeavors 119 X, in Greece 44 “Transformers” villain 122 NYC-to-Ocean City dir.

46 Went hastily 123 Single or double brew 51 Jet-black (Abbr.)

52 Product line?

124 Convent member 53 Excessively 125 Way finder, briefly 54 Like bodybuilders 126 Not strict

127 Made a boo-boo 128 Go faster 129 Oahu and others 130 Like some hair or T-shirts 131 Game officials?

132 Racy messages

©2022 Universal Uclick

ACROSS

30 Tolkien trilogy, for short 33 Not bad, but not great 1 Former Iranian rulers 36 Currency in Iran 6 Healthy sprout source 37 Crisp set in a den 13 Evolutionary time 39 C + 4-Down? periods 42 <p>Code that this clue 17 Cardinal sin of broadsuggests</p> casting 45 Fit for the job 19 Event where alumni 47 Strongly advised mingle 48 Cookie since 1912 20 Poke around 49 Lead-in to “zone” or 21 C + 117-Down? “centric” 23 Tech support whiz 50 Flexible 24 CBS franchise with a 52 DOJ org.

Vegas sequel series 55 PC key for vertical 25 Dole (out) scrolling 26 Something to look 58 Like a jacket’s lining through?

60 “Me too!”

27 Plaster mural 28 Number puzzle invented 62 Name within “Nevada” 63 Meeting, informally

by Tetsuya Miyamoto

65 Request permission for 68 Exam for a future atty.

69 C + 13-Down?

75 Flower ___ (wedding figure) 76 Menzel who voiced Elsa in “Frozen” 77 Region 78 Item for steering a gondola 80 Hard to approach 82 Homes made of snow 85 Beleaguer 87 Taxpayer’s ID 88 County for Disneyland ... or much of Disney World 92 Camper’s place 94 ___ eagle 95 Quick on your feet 96 Shrunken body of water

at the edge of Kazakhstan 99 Golden rule word 100 C + 84-Down?

104 What a hitchhiker wants 106 Sworn statement 107 Caesar’s accusation 108 Mice move all over them 110 Filmed again, as a scene 114 Bewhiskered sea creatures 116 Rodent of the Chinese zodiac 118 Teen outbreak 120 Gorilla, e.g.

121 Actress Knightley of “Anna Karenina” 122 C + 46-Down?

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 ASJC HI EJFTC MGJ ITDJSMN FLPJ. ... L MGLPV LM RXOJ RJ KMSTPAJS XK X IJSKTP, LM EHLFM RN YGXSXYMJS.” – UHKMLP ELJEJS

“L WJPO BYXO DWO ROZD L UJX BY, JXB ROOX LX DWO ROZD L UYSEB RO LX YX DOEOPLZLYX -- MLDW DWO ROZD TOYTEO.”

– NJIH RSINWYCC

“PYEVS TGWGUG GWU GKSBETG UEU WCJ DSTCKS CWS TCRWJBF, PS DSTGKS VEIS JPC DBCJYSBX PYC VENS EW JYS XGKS URAVSH.”

– KEIS KFSBX

Puzzle Three Clue: A equals P

Mr. and Mrs. Russell Pounds and children moved to the Pounds Camp on Lake Butler for the month of May. The primary department of the Winter Garden Elementary School hosted the children of the community who would be entering school in the fall. Among those participating were Susan Neff, Ralph Girvin, George Wright and Judy Ezzard.

Mrs. Luther Shaw and her children, Don and Sue, spent a week in Daytona.

Fifty-four students graduated from Lakeview High School at annual exercises held in the school auditorium.

The opening date for the West Orange Memorial Hospital was set for June 16.

Little dancers from Winter Garden taking part in the Ebsen Dance recital were Steve Akin, Linda Akin, Billye Austin, Patty Moore and Sharon Griffin.

Puzzle Two Clue: M equals W

W EST O RANG E HISTO RY

OBSERVER

Puzzle One Clue: D equals V

18

© 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

5-26-22

MAY 26, 2022

HIGH

SPORTS

West Orange High School’s Ailey Schyck was invited to participate in the 33rd Florida Athletic Coaches Association Softball All-Star Classic. Page 20.

1

5

Horizon High School will host a physical and ECG night from 6 to 9 p.m.

Thursday, June 16. For those interested in participating, price for each exam is $20.

2

Ocoee High School released its 2022 basketball summer schedule. Schedule is as follows: Hagerty Team Camp, junior varsity and varsity, June 3; Palm Beach Atlantic Team camp, varsity, June 4; Lake Brantley Summer league, junior varsity and varsity, June 6 to 9; FSU Team camp, varsity, June 10 to 12; The Villages Team camp, junior varsity and varsity, June 17 to 19.

3

West Orange High School will host a physical and ECG day for new and returning football players at noon Friday, May 27, at the West Orange Media Center. Cost is $20 for the physical and $20 for the ECG. This exam is a must for those who are planning on playing football during the upcoming season.

4

Dr. Phillips High School will offer two free physical and ECG exams, one June 11 and another July 23. The June 11 exam will take place from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Oak Ridge High School and will be available to student athletes in grades kindergarten to 12th.

Pre-registration begins at 8 a.m. For more information, visit beaplayer.org/home.

5

The Orlando Area Rowing Society high school team competed at regionals May 14-15. Out of 16 boats that competed at regionals, only four boats qualified for nationals. The Women’s U16 8+ placed first, the Men’s U16 8+ placed second, and the Men’s U17 4+ and the Men’s Youth 2placed third.

Both Ana Bleeker and Kevin Sullivan earned myriad awards during their athletic high-school careers

POWER

COUPLE

Windermere High School graduate Ana Bleeker was named Female Athlete of the Year. Her boyfriend, Olympia High School graduate Kevin Sullivan, earned Male Athlete of the Year at his school.

ANDREA MUJICA STAFF WRITER

W

indermere High School graduate Ana Bleeker was named female Athlete of the Year at her school a few days before her boyfriend, Olympia High School graduate Kevin Sullivan, was named Male Athlete of the Year at his school.

The awards actually came as a sur-

prise to both. The schools told each of them to attend the senior awards ceremonies at their respective schools the day prior — without any hint of what awaited them.

“It’s an honor,” Bleeker, captain of Windermere’s volleyball team, said.

“We were the first team to win districts and make it to regionals, and we were the first team sport that made it to the state finals. It was cool that we were able to set much of school his-

Andrea Mujica

tory and set a precedent for future years to come.”

Sullivan attended Windermere High School during his freshman and sophomore years. However, when his family moved to a different house, the assigned school for the area was Olympia, the school he attended during his junior and senior years.

“I know for me, only being able to be at Olympia for two years after I transferred, it meant a lot that I was able to be accepted in that way and welcomed into the Olympia family,” he said. “It was a very prideful moment for me. Being able to be recognized and seen as a member of the Titan family was really nice.”

Bleeker captained the Wolverines volleyball team for three years during her high school career as an athlete.

Sullivan also was the captain of the Titan’s football team and the school’s weightlifting team.

Sullivan attended Windermere’s senior awards ceremony and was present when Bleeker received the Athlete of the Year award. Imagine their surprise when they attended Olympia’s awards ceremony a few days later and Sullivan received the SEE DYNAMIC PAGE 20

Foundation Academy baseball team made history as it sought its way into the Final Four for the first time.

Thomas Lightbody | TK Photography

Foundation baseball, TFA softball earn spots in Final Four Foundation fell to Miami Christian May 23. TFA softball was scheduled to play Evangelical Christian Tuesday, May 24, after press time.

ANDREA MUJICA STAFF WRITER

The pursuit of the state championship title ended short for a lot of the teams in the Observer’s coverage area.

However, the Foundation Academy baseball team and The First Academy

softball team both made school history as they reached the Final Four in their respective pursuits.

LIONS BASEBALL

The Foundation Academy baseball team made history as it advanced to the Final Four after defeating

Orangewood Christian 7-3 during the regional final Tuesday, May 17.

“The thing about this game, it was really a microcosm of our season,” head baseball coach Jay Welsh said. “All season long, we’ve battled adversity — whether it’d be with injuries or internally.”

The Lions took the lead early, scoring their first two runs at top bottom of the lead and reaching a 3-0 lead during the top of the fifth.

Tyler Cannon was the starting pitcher for the team. He pitched

four-and-one-third innings, allowing one run on two hits while striking out three and walking two. Braden Holcomb came in as relief from the bullpen and pitched two-and-twothirds innings, allowing two runs on six hits while striking out four and walking zero.

The Rams tied the game at the bottom of the fifth, but the Lions were able to score four more runs during the sixth and seventh innings, which put them into the competition for the state championship.

“The best thing that I told the kids is, ‘We have a chance,’” Welsh said.

“There’s thousands of other schools that don’t have one, and we have that. We are pretty fearless, we think we can take anybody. … We are the underdogs.”

However, the team’s quest for a state title ended when it fell 4-2 to Miami Christian Academy Monday, May 23, in the state semifinal.

SEE TEAMS PAGE 20

20

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

OBSERVER

|

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, MAY 26, 2022

Teams make school history

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

Ailey Schyck

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 19

ROYALS SOFTBALL

West Orange High School recent graduate Ailey Schyck was chosen to participate in the 33rd Florida Athletic Coaches Association Softball All-Star Classic, which will take place June 3-4 at Florida Southern College in Lakeland. Schyck will be attending Murray State University, where she will further her education and continue to play softball.

When did you first start playing softball?

When I was 7 years old, I played T-ball. I think I started playing Little League when I was 9 or 10.

How did you get to play softball?

I was trying all sports when I was young, so I guess this one was one of those sports where I said, “OK, I’ll try it.” And then I liked it, and I stuck with it.

Which position do you prefer playing while fielding?

Third. It’s like the hot corner of the field, you always have to be on both of your feet waiting for it. You get more action; it’s more fun.

What do you love most about playing softball?

Probably the competitiveness.

You are around all types of girls who come from different places; they are competing for the same thing and have the same goal.

Also, the team is kind of family.

What was your favorite thing about being a part of the softball team at your school?

I think we got along pretty well.

It was interesting sometimes, but we had 16 teenagers so. … We always had each other’s back. If something happened, a girl on the team would always stick up for the other girls.

Where are you going to college?

I’m going to Murray State University.

Are you going to play softball at the collegiate level?

Yes. What do you enjoy most, playing offense or defense (hit or field)?

If I’m hitting (well), hitting. If not, fielding.

What will you remember most fondly about your years in high school?

The big games. This year we won Metros, that feeling of being the champion and the winner — it feels great.

How do you feel about being chosen to play for the all star team for the 2022 FACA girls softball All-Star Classic?

I’m honored — that’s a big thing. My best friend, Lexi, she played in there last year, and she is a very good player.

THE BASICS AGE: 18 SPORT: Softball POSITIONS: First and third base SCHOOL: West Orange High School GRADE: Senior

friends.

What are your plans for your last high-school summer before entering college?

I’m still playing travel ball with the Windermere Wildfire team, so I’ll probably still be traveling. I think we are doing the JO Cup in Oklahoma City.

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

Mind-reading, because I’d want to know what people are thinking about.

Favorite movie?

I like “Spider-Man: No Way Home” — that one is pretty good.

What’s a TV series you are binge-watching right now?

I just finished with “On My Block,” so I’m starting “All American” seasons two and three. It’s like a football show, so there’s just sports in it, and the story behind it is based on a true story, so it’s kind of interesting.

Three things on your bucket list?

Go to Bora Bora; I’ve never been out of the country so that’d be fun. Win the Junior Olympics this summer and go to New York; I want to see the 9/11 Memorial. I’ve never seen it, so I think that’d be cool. I’ve seen pictures and how it’s set up but never in person.

What’s your biggest fear?

I don’t like the dark. Being alone in the dark — I’m not a fan of that. I don’t think it’s the dark, I feel like it’s what’s in the dark. So like if I’m walking down an alley and it’s dark, I feel like something is going to pop out. Or clowns, I can watch movies, but when I see them in person, I don’t like them.

Three things you’d take with you to a deserted island?

My phone, a filter to filter the water and food.

What are you looking forward the most in college?

Freedom.

Living on my own is a fear and a good thing, so I am excited to see what I can do with it and how I manage to do it all.

How are you preparing for it?

Me and my dad, Steve Schyck, go out to hit every week. Of course, I am still hitting, but I am not going to put too much pressure on myself. I’m going to go out there and have fun.

The First Academy softball team made school history after facing two different teams last week.

The Royals defeated Orlando Christian Prep 3-1 Wednesday, May 18, during the regional semifinal.

The game was first set for Tuesday, May 17, but weather conditions forced it to be postponed and continued the next day.

During the regional final, the girls shut out Mount Dora Christian Academy 4-0 to become one of the Final Four teams competing for the state championship title.

“I’ve waited for this day for 23 years,” assistant baseball coach Jane Knuth said. “In my last year — I’m retiring in July — to go to the Final Four. … I’ve just got chill-bumps.”

Senior Hannah Harper pitched the entire game for the Royals, allowing zero runs on three hits while walking zero and striking out five.

“Whenever I go into the game, I just think 21 outs later — that’s the main goal,” she said. “It’s really surreal, we’ve been working for this so hard every year. We were so close last year, it’s really mind-blowing and feels relieving, honestly.”

The team took the lead early in the game, scoring its first run at the top of the first and the next three at the top of the third.

“Feeling great, I am so excited for these girls, so excited for this school,” head baseball coach Kaley Gogenholff said. “Since I’ve been here, this has been my dream for them. … I can’t wait for them to experience it, there’s really nothing like it, it’s so special.”

The girls faced Evangelical Christian School during the state semifinal Tuesday, May 24, after press time.

FOUNDATION SOFTBALL

The Foundation Academy softball team ended its season Tuesday, May 17, as it fell against Mount Dora Christian Academy 8-6 during the regional semifinals.

“Unfortunately, we came up short,” head baseball coach Tate McClellan said. “Both teams were great offense- and defense-wise,

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 19

same award.

“It was a surprise for all,” Sullivan said. “It was even cooler of a moment that we could share that.”

Because both are fierce competitors in their respective sports, it’s no surprise that mentality also applies to their academics. Bleeker finished high school with a 4.0 unweighted GPA and 5.111 weighted GPA, while Sullivan posted a 4.0+ unweighted GPA and a 5.211 weighted GPA. “We got academic awards as well for that,” Sullivan said. “I would say the one thing we do compete in is academic success.”

LIFELONG FRIENDS

Bleeker and Sullivan have been going to the same schools since their elementary years. They both attended Sunset Park Elementary and Bridgewater Middle. It was not until last year, though, that they decided to start dating.

“I had a few classes with her through middle school,” Sullivan said. “One day she came into my work, and I was like, ‘I have to get What do you her number.’ I had her on social want to study in media, but I didn’t talk to her that college? much. I just knew her from school, I’m undecided and I would talk to her at school. … right now, but We’re all in this together.

It worked out.”

I’ll probably do State Farm related has a long tradition Both athletes made a commitsomething of being managethere. That’s one reason ment to support each other through to sports whyorI’m proud to support Westall their competitions and tournament business.

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“We share the same goals, and we’re driven by the same thing,” Bleeker said. “So we help keep each other in the right path and push each other to be better at what we want to accomplish.”

For Bleeker, sports run in her family’s bloodline. Both her parents played Division I sports in college.

Her dad played football for Boston College and the University of Florida, and her mom played volleyball for the University of South Florida.

“I aways played soccer or gymnastics, trying to stay active,” Bleeker said. “I got introduced to volleyball when I was 9, when we moved to Orlando from Tampa, and it was a love-hate relationship at the beginning. … But after, I fell in love with the team aspect of the sport.”

Sullivan started to play sports at a young age, as well. He played baseball for about two years, starting when he was about 5 years old. He then played soccer for about eight years, as well as basketball and track and field.

“My mom wouldn’t let me play contact football until the last year before high school, so I’ve played football for five years now,” he said.

“And weightlifting I started when I got to high school. I didn’t know it was a sport, and then I was introduced to that, and I loved it because it benefited me for football, as well.”

For both, being student-athletes was a big part of their high-school experiences.

“It’s the aspect of different age

Windermere High’s pursuit for a state championship title ended Tuesday, May 17, after the Wolverines fell to Plant 2-0 during the regional final.

Plant took the lead early in the game, scoring its first run at the top of the second inning.

The pitchers displayed a strong game on both sides. For the Wolverines, Cannon Feazell pitched six

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groups coming together,” Bleeker said. “You start out on the team the first year being the younger one there, figuring out your way. And by the time you are a senior, you are now the old one, the mentor of the younger ones, guiding them through the path that you took, so I think that’s really cool, that leadership moment where you get to grow as a person.”

“It’s a good way to learn and grow and to see the leaders as they graduate, you kind of get to become that person and fill those (shoes),” Sullivan said.

Bleeker will start her college education in the summer, where she will also continue playing volleyball. She will head up to the University of Georgia come July, where she will major in engineering but is still deciding between biochemical or mechanical.

“It’s going to be hard not being able to go to all her games, but I’ll watch them online,” Sullivan said.

Sullivan also will continue to play football at the collegiate level. He still has a few more months before heading up to college, as he will start his first semester at Washington and Jefferson College in Pennsylvania in the fall. He wants to go into the economics field.

And although their college careers will take them to different states, Bleeker and Sullivan plan to keep dating long-distance. They hope to take trips together and share time when their schedules allow.

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The First Academy baseball team fell short during the quest to defend its state championship title. The Royals fell to Cardinal Newman 9-1 during the regional final Tuesday, May 17.

“These guys, the majority are seniors, and they’ve had a great four years,” head baseball coach Scott Grove said. “As disappointing as the loss was, there’s a lot to be thankful for with this group.”

During the last four years, the team’s overall record was 67-6, as the Royals collected three district championships, one state championship — all while playing in the regional finals three times.

“It was an amazing year,” Grove

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said. “Winning 26 games — that’s a lot of baseball games to win in a season.”

The Royals had three pitchers on the mound during the game. Isaac Sewell was the starting pitcher. He pitched five innings, allowed six runs on six hits while striking out four and walking one. Caleb Parmer came in as relief for the bullpen, pitched two-thirds of an inning, allowed zero runs on zero hits while striking out zero and walking one.

Harrison Miller pitched the last one-and-one-third innings, allowing three runs on one hit while striking out two and walking zero.

Cardinal Newman put the first run of the game on the scoreboard during the top of the third inning, scoring most of its runs during the top of the fifth and taking a wide lead of 6-0. The Crusaders scored their last three runs of the game during the top of the seventh. The First Academy was only able to score one run during the bottom of the sixth.

The Royals have 11 seniors on their roster; 10 already committed to play in college next year.

“That doesn’t happen with many senior classes — having that many seniors going off to play on the next level,” Grove said. “We think that we kind of planted a seed for them.

Hopefully, we taught them to play the game the right way and give them a road filled with opportunity, once they get to college, to continue the success they’ve been having in baseball.”

The First Academy graduating seniors are Michael Rivera, Riley Parker, Greg Pettay, Ben Barrett, Tyler Rondon, Harrison Miller, Caleb Parmer, Isaac Sewell, Reid Williams, Josh Gannaway and DJ Brazelton.

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nobody else I’d rather played, honestly, than them.”

The Bulldogs took the lead early, scoring their first three runs at the bottom of the first. However, the Lions were able to score their six runs through the remaining innings.

“The girls really exceeded my expectations this year,” McClellan said. “I had confidence in them, knew we were going to go far, but I mean we’ve never won a regional game, and we made it to regionals, so that’s huge.”

Sophia Smith was the starting pitcher for the Lions. She pitched one-third of an inning, allowing three runs on three hits, while striking out one and walking one. Riley Winters came in in relief of the bullpen and pitched five and two-thirds innings of the game.

The Lions were able to collect eight hits during the game. Winters, Elizabeth Ozim and Faith Fazzone connected multiple hits for their team.

“Next year, I’ll be expecting even better, just because the girls will be older, they’ll know more, and they learned a lot this season,” McClellan said. “Hopefully, we’ll have more girls coming in next year (who) can get the experience. We’re still going to be a young team next year, but I think a lot of teams kind of know us, I think we made a name for ourselves.”

The Lions have only one graduating senior, Jayda Ross, who will be attending the University of South Florida.

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OBSERVER

The Windermere High softball team fell 8-2 against Lakewood Ranch High during the regional final Tuesday, May 17.

“The girls battled; they never stop fighting,” head baseball coach Eileen Hannigan said.

The Mustangs scored seven of their eight runs between the first and second innings, while the Wolverines scored their two runs at the top of the first.

“They just work so hard, they put in so much time on their own just to continue to get better,” Hannigan said.

“They love the game, they are smart, they are still learning because they are young, but they are hungry. They are great teammates to (one another), too. The thing I’m most proud of is how well they played together and fought for each other. … It’s really exciting to see how much respect they have for the game and for each other.”

For next year, the team hopes to come back stronger.

“I said this often, and I stand by it,” Hannigan said. “We are going to be good, we are going to be dangerous, but this is not our year, and I said that because I knew how young we were.”

The team has only one graduating senior, Lexi Peani, who will be attending Florida State University and pursuing a career in medical school.

“She is an amazing young woman, absolutely brilliant and has a bright future ahead of her,” Hannigan said.

“She wants to be a doctor; she is going to excel at whatever she does. … She’s resilient.”

Robert Wesley “Bob” Williams, 75, of Windermere, Florida passed away peacefully Tuesday, May 10, 2022, at ORMC in Orlando, Florida, with his wife and son by his side. He fought a long and hard battle with cancer.

Bob was born April 5, 1947, in the small town in Windermere, Florida, where he spent his whole life. He is the son of Loren Roberson “Andy” Williams Jr. and Mildred (Rosser) Williams.

Bob was a loving and supportive husband, father and granddad.

He is survived by Lavina (Maszy) Williams, his wife of 54 years; son, Loren Robertson “Andy” Williams and wife, Colleen; and granddaughter, Loren Abigail Williams.

He was preceded in death by his

daughter, Mary Margaret (Williams) O’Donell; his parents; and his siblings, Larry and Judith Ann. Bob cared deeply for the Town of Windermere. His great-grandfather McMurtry bought land in 1918 on Lake Down. His father was Mayor of Windermere from 1951-1955. He was a fifth-generation Windermerian and spent his whole life living in Windermere.

Bob said: “Windermere is a very special place. … I’ve always felt that I owned the special town.” His wish was that everyone living in

Mr. Robert “Robby” Adam Sanders, age 33, of Kinston, Alabama, passed away Thursday, May 19, 2022, at his home.

Robby was the most courageous and kindest man who never met a stranger. His faith was immeasurable. Robby was a devoted son and brother who treasured and loved his family. His favorite pastimes were talking to Jesus, bragging about his brother and sister, fishing and gardening.

We rejoice today knowing Robby is healed and free of pain. Robby has fought a good fight, finished the race and kept his faith.

Robby is survived by his parents, Jennifer Jane Voss Sanders and Robert Alan Sanders; brother, Joseph Alan Sanders (Jodi); sister, Sarah Jane Sanders; paternal grandparents, Maxine and Lawrence Sanders; and maternal grandmother, Jane Voss.

He was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather, Jefferson Voss, and cousin, Gregory Hayes.

Funeral services for Mr. Robert “Robby” Adam Sanders were held at 2 p.m. Monday, May 23, 2022, from Wyatt Funeral Home Chapel, with burial following in Rhoades Cemetery. Visitation was held one hour prior to the service.

Kit Johnson officiated. Serving as pallbearers were Alan Sanders, Joseph Sanders, Kyle Sparks, David Reeves, Ray Phillips and Jim Hazelett.

Ralph Akers, 79, of Winter Garden, died May 17, 2022. Winter Oak Funeral Home & Cremations, Winter Garden.

Devin Griggs, 28, of Winter Garden, died May 9, 2022. Winter Oak Funeral Home & Cremations, Winter Garden.

Donald C. Manley, 78 of Gotha, died May 12, 2022. Winter Oak Funeral Home & Cremations, Winter Garden.

Norman C. Cavey, 73, of Winter Garden, died May 23, 2022. Winter Oak Funeral Home & Cremations, Winter Garden.

Ramon Maldonado, 79, of Winter Garden, died May 16, 2022. Winter Oak Funeral Home & Cremations, Winter Garden.

Jeremy J. Pratt, Jr., 18, of Winter Garden, died May 13, 2022. Winter Oak Funeral Home & Cremations, Winter Garden.

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innings, allowed two runs on five hits while striking out three and walking three. Connor Fink came in as relief of the bullpen, pitching one inning while allowing zero runs on zero hits, striking out one and walking zero.

Windermere has five graduating seniors: Simon Sobellia, Max Pickert, Gustavo Mendez, Mason Evers and Blake Cyr.

THURSDAY, MAY 26, 2022

Windermere would feel the very same way.

Bob first worked as a night clerk at the Winter Garden Inn in Winter Garden, Florida. In 1967, he began working at Lake X, in St. Cloud, for Kiekhaefer Mercury Outboard until 1969, then worked for Triangle Auto Parts grinding crankshafts. Bob opened his own shop, Revmaster Machine, in 1972 in Windermere and then moved to Old Winter Garden Road.

Bob also purchased several commercial properties over the years, including warehouses in Orlando, a motel in Ft. Pierce and retail shopping centers in the Town of Windermere. He was a true entrepreneur with a vision to add value to the town for the residents but keep it small.

The family has chosen to do a Celebration of Life for Bob in the fall of 2022. Winter Oak Funeral Home and Cremations.

ROBERT WESLEY “BOB” WILLIAMS DIED MAY 10, 2022.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 19

|

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THURSDAY, MAY 26, 2022

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”.

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

We really could use a hand up...

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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. . . t i a But W

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Historic Winter Garden

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

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Historic Downtown Saturday, March 26

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

Fireworks

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