11.02.23 West Orange Times & Observer

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

Observer Winter Garden, Ocoee, Oakland

YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD. VOLUME 90, NO. 44

BRAIN FOOD: We celebrate Native American Heritage Month SEE 6B.

FREE • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 2023

A worthy cause West Orange Habitat for Humanity hosts 2023 Rock the House. SEE 3A.

YOUR TOWN TIME TO FALL BACK

You will have one less hour of sunlight in the evening starting Sunday, Nov. 5, when daylight saving time ends. Don’t forget to move your clocks back one hour before you go to bed Saturday night — or at 2 a.m.

Sunday — whichever comes first.

CREEPIN’ IT REAL Winter Garden and Ocoee residents had plenty of chances to enjoy a little preHalloween fun at a plethora of events last weekend.

OBSERVER BOOK DRIVE BEGINS Do you remember your favorite book as a child? Do you remember a loved one reading it to you night after night? There are children in West Orange County who don’t have books to escape into or haven’t had the opportunity to experience the thrill of opening a brand-new book.

Through its Reading Reindeer literacy program, which started in 1997, the Observer Media Group is hoping to change this by collecting new books to be given to underserved children from birth to age 17 during the holidays.

Reach out to contact@orangeobserver.com for a drop off location near you. The deadline is Dec. 1.

The books will be given to Edgewood Children’s Ranch, Eight Waves, Oakland Police Department, Matthew’s Hope Firm Foundation, Christian Service Center, Community Health Centers, the Winter Garden Police Department’s Holiday Gifts For Kids Program and the Ocoee Police Department’s Holiday Toys for Kids in Need Program.

PHOTOS ON PAGE 4A.

SOUND SHOWCASE Local bands take the field for West Orange’s West Side Showcase.

SEE PAGE 1B.

Alyssa Councell, Finlee Watson and Ian Watson sported pirate costumes for the Roper YMCA event.

Right: Royalty Foreman, 4, was one of the most beautiful witches at the Young Innovators Academy Trunk or Treat.

County approves Windermere stadium The stadium is scheduled to open before the start of the 2024 football season.

SEE PAGE 6A.

Winter Garden approves several projects The City Commission also approved a rehabilitation grant for the east Winter Garden community.

SEE PAGE 2A.

OrangeObserver.com

OBSERVER | THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 2023

Winter Garden Police Department to receive $274K in tech upgrades NEWS EDITOR

IN OTHER NEWS

The Winter Garden City Commission discussed several noteworthy items at its meeting Thursday, Oct. 26.

n Mayor John Rees read a proclamation designating Saturday, Nov. 4, through Saturday, Nov. 11, as Week of the Family.

NEW POLICE EQUIPMENT

n The Winter Garden City Commission approved unanimously a Request for Proposal rankings and awarded the Enterprise Resource Planning Software and Implementation to BS&A.

The Winter Garden Police Department earned the approval of more than $274,000 for new police equipment in three different capacities.

The first approval pertained to the purchase and renewal of a new fiveyear contract with Axon Enterprises for a body camera video system in the amount of $124,783.39.

Police Chief Steve Graham said the amount was included in the budget, and the agreement will obligate subsequent funding for four more budget cycles at $124,783.39 for each year.

The second item was the approval purchase of a Fusus system video and data collaboration platform in the amount of $80,000.

n The commission approved unanimously a purchase order

Graham said there are numerous video cameras throughout the community, and when a crime or incident occurs, the department searches for possible camera feeds to provide clues for investigators.

“The Fusus system coordinates all camera feeds, even allowing residents, neighborhoods and businesses to voluntarily share video access along with the city-owned cameras,” he said in his report. “This would provide real-time access to live video feeds and greatly assist us with timely resolutions of incidents that occur in the city.”

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with Fausnight Stripe and Line for pavement marking services in the amount of $63,841.61.

n The commission approved unanimously the Small Business Saturday special event for Nov. 25.

n Commissioners approved unanimously a purchase order to Dale Beasley Construction to replace piping and backflow preventers on Lift Station 23 in the amount of $249,546.83.

n Commissioners and the Community Redevelopment Agency approved unanimously Carmen Horne as a new member on the Community Redevelopment Agency Advisory Board.

n The city approved unanimously the Holiday Market at Downtown Winter Garden special event from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 2.

n The city approved unanimously canceling regular City Commission meetings on Nov. 23 and Dec. 28, after a recommendation by City Manager Jon C. Williams.

The initial agreement is for three years, which will obligate subsequent funding for two more budget cycles at $80,000 for each year.

The last item was the approval of the purchase of a new Terrestrial Laser Scanner from Riegl in the amount of $70,000.

Graham said the agency is seek-

ing to replace an older system that no longer functions and also is not supported by the manufacturer. The item was included in the budget.

SITE PLAN APPROVAL

The commission also approved unanimously a site plan for Verax at Daniels Road, located at 1207 Daniels Road. The applicant is proposing to develop four single-story office buildings totaling 30,000 square feet. The plan includes associated site improvements such as parking,

HOUSING REHABILITATION GRANT

The commission and the Community Redevelopment Agency also approved unanimously to authorize City Manager Jon C. Williams to execute an agreement with the Black Business Community Development Corporation to provide Housing Rehabilitation Grant Administration and Construction Services in an amount not to exceed $240,000.

The proposal is for the benefit and assistance to the homeowners of the east Winter Garden neighborhood community. Homeowner residents would have the opportunity to improve and upgrade internal and external features of their homes from the CRA housing rehabilitation grant program.

The city received three proposals for the RFP where the selection committee evaluated, scored and ranked the submittals. There were eight criteria considered during the evaluation.

The Black Business Community Development Corporation was ranked first place by the selection committee as the most suitable and responsible bidder/consultant to provide administration and construction services supporting the grant.

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ANNABELLE SIKES

landscaping and a stormwater pond.

The 3.46-acre subject property currently is designated Commercial on the city’s Future Land Use Map and is zoned Arterial Commercial District.

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OBSERVER | THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 2023

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Lauren Morrissey, Morrisey Design, and Hannah Jacobs, Element, showed off their “Top Gun” costumes.

Guests at the Habitat ReStore table sported Mardi Gras-inspired costumes.

HOUSE PARTY W

— AMY QUESINBERRY AND ANNABELLE SIKES

The West Orange Habitat for Humanity staff wore Harry Potter robes with matching accessories.

Scott Boyd, former Orange County District 1 Commissioner, hosted the event.

Oakland plans for 2024 election The town has set the official qualifying period for residents seeking to run as candidates for office.

AMY QUESINBERRY COMMUNITY EDITOR

The Oakland Town Commission passed a resolution at its Oct. 24 meeting that sets the qualifying dates and establishes the qualification methods for the town’s 2024 municipal election.

The town has a three-week candidate qualifying period for the election, set for March 19, 2024, and there are two ways to qualify: with signature cards or a fee payment.

The petition method of qualifying requires the candidate to obtain 100 petitions from registered voters in the town of Oakland in lieu of paying a fee. This two-week period will begin at 8 a.m. Nov. 16 and end at 5

p.m. Dec. 1. Petitions are verified by the Supervisor of Elections office at the expense of the candidate.

The four-day qualification process — in which candidates pay a $100 qualifying fee along with a $5.99 state assessment fee — begins at 8 a.m. Dec. 4 and ends at 3 p.m.

Dec. 7.

The March election will have three seats on the ballot: those of the mayor and seats 2 and 3, currently held by Kathy Stark, Mike Satterfield and Sal Ramos, respectively.

During the consent agenda portion of the meeting, the commission appointed the Canvassing Board for the election. Because the election coincides with the Presidential Preference Primary and Orange County

is involved, the county’s Canvassing Board will handle the task for the municipal election.

The town’s Canvassing Board would only have to meet to canvass a run-off election in the town if needed. Appointed were commissioners Joseph McMullen and Rick Polland as the two primary members and Town Manager Andy Stewart as the alternate.

UPGRADED POLICE TECHNOLOGY

Oakland Police Chief Darron Esan informed the commission of recent purchases for the police department.

He said when he was interviewed for the position one year ago, his goal would be to provide the best training and equipment available.

He and his staff conducted a great deal of research on the best firearms and patrol car computers before making the purchase.

Annette and Jo-el Gonzalez dressed to impress in shades of pink to represent their “Barbie”-themed table.

IN OTHER NEWS n Town Manager Andy Stewart announced Town Clerk Elise Hui has been promoted to assistant town manager/town clerk. n Hui showed a video of Oakland Avenue Charter School teachers singing a song to commemorate the school’s 20-year anniversary. n The Oakland Town Commission approved the consent agenda, which authorized Stewart to sign a Department of Environmental Protection grant agreement that

“The firearms the officers were carrying were, to me, we were walking the line of liability,” Esan said.

“We were able to do a buy-back; … officers can keep them for a shadowbox or whatever.”

The firearms cost $12,000.

“With your support, the computers, the cars and the firearms were the

provides $2 million in state funding for the town’s alternative water project. The consent agenda also included acceptance of the OACS audit and a renewal of the town attorney services contract with Vose Law Firm. n Mayor Kathy Stark welcomed Boy Scout Troop 145 to the meeting. Members were attendance to earn several scouting badges. n The commission proclaimed Nov. 4 through 11 Week of the Family and Nov. 11 Veterans Day in the town of Oakland.

first big steps, and we got it all done in less than a year,” he said. “My goal is every 60 days they go into training – for firearms and everything.

We will have the best police officers in Central Florida.”

New uniforms have been purchased, but they haven’t been rolled out yet.

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Patty and Bob Tate dressed in a patriotic theme.

est Orange Habitat for Humanity returned with its signature Rock the House event Saturday, Oct. 21.

Rock the House is an annual, unique celebration for community members to gather to enjoy live entertainment, participate in a silent/live auction and celebrate Habitat family stories.

Hundreds of attendees dressed to fit this year’s theme of diamonds, denim and boots, as well as represent their themed tables.

Vocal Flash performed catchy renditions of popular tunes before handing the floor over to guests speakers, including Scott Boyd, former Orange County District 1 Commissioner and host of the event; Betsy VanderLey, former Orange County District 1 Commissioner; Austin Arthur, Habitat board member; Jo Barsh, Habitat board president; Marilyn Hattaway, Habitat executive director; and several of the Habitat homeowners.

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OrangeObserver.com

OBSERVER | THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 2023

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

Addison Harris, 3, walked the plank to get to the booty at the end of this pirate-themed trunk at the Young Innovators Academy event.

The Ocoee’s Police Department’s Madeleine Garza, Hailey Mendoza and Maiya Decruiz set up a Barbie-themed trunk-or-treat station.

Design Editor / Jessica Eng, jeng@OrangeObserver.com News Editor / Annabelle Sikes, asikes@OrangeObserver.com Community Editor / Amy Quesinberry, amyq@OrangeObserver.com Staff Writer / Andrea Mujica, amujica@OrangeObserver.com Sales Manager / Cyndi Gustafson, advertising@OrangeObserver.com Multimedia Advertising Executive / Iggy Collazo, iggy@OrangeObserver.com Graphic Designer / Andrea Rukstalis, arukstalis@OrangeObserver.com Advertising Operations Manager / Allison Brunelle, abrunelle@OrangeObserver.com

CONTACT US

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

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

Dracula (Ryan Dunne) and a pink butterfly (Audrey Dunne) collected candy during the YMCA Trunk or Treat.

Suite 180, Winter Garden.

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STATEMENT OF OWNERSHIP PUBLIC NOTICES Adrian, Dana and Sofia Arce enjoyed the evening at the Roper YMCA Trunk or Treat.

Left: Penelope Garcia, 6, loved spending time with all the animals in the petting zoo at the Young Innovators Academy event.

Eerie-sistible events W

Young Innovators Academy teachers Jackie Garcia and Mariela Torres were ready to head to Hogwarts.

Right: Audrey Dorme and Aleksandra Martin trickor-treated as Wonder Woman and Pennywise at the Ocoee event.

est Orange families had a plethora of options to celebrate Halloween last weekend.

The fun started Friday, Oct. 27, with the Roper YMCA Family Center’s Trunk or Treat. Children and families donned creative costumes for an evening of trick-or-treating at the Winter Garden facility.

Just a few miles away, families had a fun time together at the Ocoee Parks & Recreation Department’s annual Trunk or Treat event. Games, rides, a corn maze, haunted house and food trucks gave folks the chance to eat, play and experience a few frights. The Ocoee Police Department and other organizations set up booths and trickor-treating from their trunks to round out the night.

Finally, the next morning, trick-ortreaters got an early start on Halloween at Young Innovators Academy’s Fall Festival and Trunk or Treat Saturday, Oct. 28, at the Winter Garden school. Families had a chance to peruse a line of decorated cars that offered games and candy. Kids also had a blast loving on animals in the petting zoo, and the school celebrated the grand opening of its outdoor classroom.

— MICHAEL ENG AND AMY QUESINBERRY

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WEST ORANGE TIMES

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1970 Main St. Third Floor Sarasota, FL 34236 941-366-3468 Theo Roebke rocked his police officer uniform at the Roper YMCA Trunk or Treat.

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OBSERVER | THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 2023

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Orange County discusses charter changes The county charter is like its constitution and grants citizens and citizen-elected officials control over local and regional issues.

2024 CRC MEMBERS Homer Hartage, chair Lee Chira, vice chair Dotti Wynn Dick Batchelor Erica Jackson Angel de la Portilla Beverly Winesburgh Tom Callan Mark Arias Eric. R. Grimmer Rishi Bagga Chuck O’Neal Eugene Stoccardo Alisia Adamson Profit Cornita A. Riley

SPEAK YOUR PIECE n Review Orange County’s Charter: bit.ly/3MjyOKA n Attend a meeting: bit.ly/40ekVmN n Contact the CRC: Call (407) 836-7300 or email charter2024@ occompt.com

ANNABELLE SIKES NEWS EDITOR

Orange County elected officials, staff and the public gathered to make recommendations at a Charter Review Commission public hearing Monday, Oct. 16, at Windermere High School.

Orange County has been governed by the charter since its creation in 1987.

The county’s charter is like its constitution and grants citizens and citizen-elected officials control over local and regional issues.

Every four years, a new charter review is conducted by a Charter Review Commission appointed by the Orange County Commission.

The CRC contains 15 appointees, three selected by Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings and two each by the six commissioners. The commission is led by Chair Homer Hartage and Vice Chair Lee Chira.

Although the CRC is not allowed to change the charter, the commission decides what questions, if any, to put to vote. It publishes a report at least 60 days before election time, and then voters decide if the suggested changes will be made.

The panel has been divided into four committees with study topics: government structure, petition initiatives, sustainable growth and charter clean-up, and creation of a public bank.

District 1 Commissioner Nicole Wilson was the invited guest speaker for the public hearing.

“I know that this community cares so much and that you all care so much, so this to me feels like the convergence of the greatest minds yet,” she said. “The reason why I love this process is it feels like the most democratic thing we’ve got going.”

COMMISSIONER COMMENTS

Wilson brought to the CRC’s attention several points, including the changes and amendments to the comprehensive plan in District 1, the establishment of a rural boundary, the expansive growth and development in the area, separation of powers, the complications of Florida Sunshine Laws, and obligation of communication disclosure.

“Part of my frustration moving through my last couple of years in office has been the inability to discuss policy with a person (who) drives the policy and the inability to really be able to talk about things that are very geographically specific to my residents because of Sunshine (Laws),” she said. “If we know policy is driven out of the mayor’s office … to be able to have a legislative branch discuss things with the executive branch would be very helpful in the global sense.”

Wilson said there have been a lot of disappointing outcomes to cases she has tried to work through with constituents.

“I feel like the outcome, had I been able to approach the strong mayor, may have been different,” she said.

“I don’t know. It’s a hypothetical, and I did not realize that as a person on the outside before I ran for office.

I understand the strong mayor form of government. … But it is one of the critical pieces of the executive is if they are the ceremonial head and they’re driving the policy, that they can’t be everywhere at once. Having the ability to approach and talk about potential legislative initiatives or the things that have been troubling my residents on a micro level, which the mayor isn’t able to get to, is important.

“When there is a compelling voice from the community that if it’s falling on deaf ears again and again and again, we’re losing trust, and that’s the part that concerns me,” Wilson

said. “We need to be more representative and more responsive.”

Regarding Sunshine Laws, Board Member Erica Jackson together with Wilson has met with neighbors for various issues.

“We worked very hard and diligently to prove our case, what our concerns are, and it’s extremely frustrating to go to these meetings and it’s you, one or two people from planning and that’s it,” she said. “Then, when we go in front of the board, we feel as if we have very little time to rehash all that we’ve been working on and ... you’re not able to speak to the mayor because of the limitations of Sunshine (Laws).”

COMMUNITY CONCERNS

Myriad residents, including Jeff Graft, voiced their support of establishing a rural boundary at the meeting.

“It’s going to benefit the environment, it’s going to benefit wildlife and plants, and things that are currently in these areas that don’t get the protections that are afforded,” he said. “It’s going to also help raise property values in those areas, as well. It’s going to make those areas more marketable, more valuable, and it’s hard to put a cost on how the values of that bring to the table.”

Theresa Schretzmann-Myers, who represents Nehrling Gardens and the Gotha Rural Settlement Association, also spoke about preserving rural settlements in Orange County.

“There has to be some protection in our charter for these rural settlement boundaries, our urban forests that give us the water, that sequester our carbon, that also protect us from stormwater mitigation,” she said.

“We moved into these rural settlements for that protection, so without protection of these urban forests and these green spaces and these wetlands and allowing development in the wetlands, we have no way of protecting our water source.”

District 4 School Board Member Pam Gould voiced her thoughts on the proposed reconstruction of government.

“As you look to restructure the government, remember the balance in an urban county where we do have the largest airport, the world-class attractions and the variety of our amazing rural settlements that absolutely need to be protected,” she said.

“If we slow things down or change things too much, we are at risk of it being taken away from our local control. … I sure would rather fight at the local level with my neighbors and have those discussions and have the ability to build those collaborations and those partnerships then have to drive four hours to Tallahassee and have three minutes to explain to someone what it means to us.”

Erin Huntley cautioned the CRC against recommending amendments that expand government in Orange County.

“Last month, the Orange County Commission voted to give themselves a 25% raise, and now we have charter review proposals that want to expand the commission and increase the amount of time on the commission,” she said. “So, they’re going to make more money, then they’re going to add more people to make more money and then we’re going to add another term of people making more money, and then we’re going to have a (public) bank to put it all in. … This is big government on steroids, and we don’t like it out here in West Orange County.”

Paul DeHart shared his frustrations on the process of a development project as it moves through the county.

“We have a temple that they’re trying to put in our community,” he said. “No problems with the temple, the church generally, but it shouldn’t be in our small community. Our community is 100% against it. We’ve been to public meetings, we had a zoning meeting, staff has recommended denial twice, zoning denied it. We go to our commissioner meeting ... and a decision is not made.”

The next 2024 CRC meeting will be held at 6 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 9, in District 3 at Colonial High School.

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OBSERVER | THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 2023

Windermere High School’s on-campus stadium a go ANNABELLE SIKES NEWS EDITOR

Come next football season, Windermere High School students, parents, staff and families will be getting their longtime dream — a football stadium on campus.

The Orange County Commission approved the on-campus stadium at its meeting Tuesday, Oct. 24.

The school’s off-campus football stadium — built more than a mile down the road from the campus at Deputy Scott Pine Community Park — has had a multitude of complications since it opened in 2017.

Now, just as most other public high schools, more than 3,100 Wolverine students will host home football games and other events onsite.

The new stadium is expected to seat up to 1,850 people and will cost about $3 million to build on the existing practice field on campus on Winter Garden-Vineland Road.

The stadium is estimated to be ready come August 2024.

District 4 School Board Member Pam Gould believes the on-site stadium is a win, win situation.

“I’m thankful that the county and Commissioner (Nicole) Wilson were willing to relook at this situation once we all realized it just didn’t work for the school or the community,” she said. “It’s really going to help to build the culture and the pride the students have in the school. For the community, it’s going to be so much better because it will take some of that traffic and congestion off of the road, it will provide adequate parking, it will become safer; it’s really a win, win all the way around.”

THE DETAILS

Applicant Christoper Mills, representing Windermere High School, requested the amendment to the special exception in the Rural Country Estate zoning district to allow for

the construction of the on-site stadium at the school.

The Future Land Use of the property, located at 5523 Winter GardenVineland Road, is RS 1/1 — West Windermere Rural Settlement.

The 64.9-acre property is situated north of Winter Garden Road, southwest of Lake Butler and south of Lake Butler Boulevard.

Proposed improvements at the site would include new visitor bleachers and relocated home bleachers for a total of 1,852 seats, as well as a new 1,800-square-foot building that would house a ticket booth, restrooms and concessions.

Other additions would be a new second basketball court, the relocation of the long jump and several storage containers on site, and four new LED light poles around the field to replace six existing poles. The plan would leave the existing high jump and basketball court in place.

There are 860 spaces at the high school as compared to the 205 at Scott Pine, requiring no proposal to modify any of the existing parking onsite.

Hours of operation for the school would not change. The cutoff for daily practices would be 8 p.m., nonschool-related events at 8:30 p.m. and football games by 11 p.m.

The proposal has 19 conditions of approval, including that the stadium and related improvements shall be installed within five years of final action on the application by Orange County or the approval is null and void.

Other conditions call for the number of seats in the bleachers to not exceed 1,852, caps on the stadium lighting at 80 feet in height and to also incorporate automatic timers or shut off timing, as well as limits on noisemakers, speakers, game hours, use of the stadium for events and landscaping.

MORE THAN JUST A STADIUM

Staff mailed out 822 notices to adjacent property owners in a 2,000-square-foot radius and received 80 in favor and 22 in opposition.

Deawn Hughes, who lives in Tildens Grove, which backs up to the school, does not believe the sounds from the stadium are compatible with the community.

“You may hear people say they need to move the high school stadium back to the high school; I’m opposed to it,” she said. “Here I am again 10 years later. If we can just work with the current site, there’s a lot of property there, if we can work with the current site to make it work, great. You might hear from some of the high school students. The high school students will use that high school for four years maximum. I have been living in Tildens Grove for (more than) 20 years. I plan to be there for another 20 years. Please vote no.”

Louis Tavares, who lives across the street from the proposed site, said although he is not opposed to the project, he asked the commission to impose some realistic restrictions.

“My neighborhood has people (who) go to the school; there’s some who are very opposed to this because like that lady (Hughes) said, it is going to be a big change to our nightly routines,” he said. “From my conversations with the principal, we’re not only talking about a football game from 7 to 11 p.m., we’re also talking about track meets, soccer games, lacrosse games, girls, boys, JV, varsity. And our big concern — we’re sympathetic to the students and wanting them to have a stadium — I’m concerned about non-school events. If this is all about student safety, why are we allowing OCPS to be able to rent out the stadium to other people over the summer when it’s not being used? That doesn’t seem like it’s

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a junior at WHS, said the school is in need of a legacy, and the stadium could be just the beginning.

“To anyone standing against this cause, I instead urge you to consider making yourself a part of this community instead of standing in the way of its progress and growth,” he said.

“Enrich yourself in the community that we at the school have no choice but to. Realize that the greatness the school has already achieved needs a spark.”

District 1 Commissioner Nicole Wilson made a motion for approval of the stadium, and the vote passed unanimously.

“It was such a relief, and I would feel better if it was right now, but I know they have to build and improve on what’s already there now,” Wilson said. “The sooner the better, but I’m so relieved. There’s no more interaction from the county as far as having to get any more approvals. We are done, and I’m so excited for those students. I’m so proud of the kids that jumped in and advocated along the way because they’re not even going to be there for this. They’re seniors.

They’re doing this for the next generation of kids and neighbors. It takes real leadership and it takes real courage. … They made history.”

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compatible with our area.”

Karina Roman Zavala, a senior at Windermere and the Student Government Association president, spoke at the meeting about safety, participation, practicality and tradition.

Although as a graduating senior, she won’t be able to use the field, she hopes for it for her seventh-grade brother who aspires to play football at the school in the future.

“This is much more than a stadium,” she said. “It’s about keeping our students and our community safe.

We are one of the only schools that does not have an on-campus field.

This has been a great inconvenience for athletes, spectators and staff, but also a great risk to our safety. You can’t have tradition without safety.”

Maggie Caprese, senior student body vice president and sports team student section chair at Windermere, also spoke.

“We deserve this stadium,” she said. “Future generations deserve this stadium, and Windermere deserves these memories and traditions.”

“We deserve the right to walk out and embrace a stadium that we call home and serves as a symbol of our community,” Paulo Moreira, senior and member of the SGA, echoed.

Donnie Cary, SGA treasurer and

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OBSERVER | THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 2023

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Orange County to receive $219M for disaster recovery The county is asking residents to provide input on how to spend the money.

NEWS EDITOR

Orange County is set to receive $219,712,000 through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Community Development Block Grant-Disaster Recovery program, and it wants input from residents on how to spend it.

The county hosted a meeting Wednesday, Oct. 11, at Tildenville Elementary School to gather community input.

The funds will be used to address unmet needs related to Hurricane Ian, including long-term recovery, restoration of infrastructure, housing and economic revitalization needs, and mitigation of damage from future storms.

About $191,054,000 will go toward unmet needs, while $28,658,000 will go toward mitigation.

In developing its CDBG-DR action plan, the county has been soliciting input from local jurisdictions, public-housing authorities, advocacy groups and community partners, as well as citizens of affected areas to determine the remaining long-term resiliency needs and the most critical disaster mitigation needs.

The meeting was one of 13 hosted across Orange County, with two occurring in District 1 — the other was held Wednesday, Oct. 18, at Green Briar Village Clubhouse — with Orange County Commissioner Nicole Wilson.

“It’s really important to make sure that these conversations also include people that aren’t able to make it tonight and that we continue to make sure they have opportunities to weigh in and to learn what this potential project is going to bring, as well as making sure that we don’t leave any opportunities on the table for our residents,” she said. “I look forward to finding out what we can do to get the results we need and the resources where they belong.”

WHAT IS CDBG-DR?

Hurricane Ian made landfall Sept.

28, 2022, and according to a report from the National Hurricane Center, was responsible for more than 150 direct and indirect deaths and more than $112 billion in damage. It is the costliest hurricane in Florida’s history and the third-costliest in United States history.

Orange County is one of four most impacted by Hurricane Ian; the others are Lee, Sarasota and Volusia counties.

There is more than $300 million in estimated damages to property and infrastructure in Orange County alone.

CDBG-DR funds are granted by the U.S. Congress and distributed through HUD to rebuild disaster impacted areas. Government entities receiving the funds can use them to carry out a variety of activities related to disaster relief and long-term recovery.

CDBG-DR projects are activities related to disaster relief, long-term recovery, restoration of infrastructure, and mitigation in the most impacted and distressed areas.

Examples of eligible activities include housing, such as new construction, reconstruction and reha-

“It’s really important to make sure that these conversations also include people that aren’t able to make it tonight and that we continue to make sure they have opportunities to weigh in and to learn what this potential project is going to bring. … I look forward to finding out what we can do to get the results we need and the resources where they belong.”

— Commissioner Nicole Wilson

VOICE YOUR OPINION MORE INFORMATION: ocfl.net/CDBG-DR TAKE THE SURVEY: surveymonkey.com/r/OC_CDBG-DR

bilitation of housing, homeownership assistance, buyout, and rental assistance; infrastructure, such as public facilities, public improvements, match for federal programs and elevation of non-residential structures; economic recovery, such as attraction, retention and return of businesses and jobs; and public services, such as housing counseling, legal advice, representation and job training.

Each activity must address a direct or indirect impact from the disaster in a most impacted and distressed area, be a CDBG-eligible activity by primarily serving low-to moderateincome persons or geographies, and meet a national objective of the CDBG program.

In addition, all CDBG-DR activities, unless funded with the mitigation set aside, must be tied to the disaster covered by the allocation (Hurricane Ian), and the funding can also be used within Orange County municipalities.

LOCAL INPUT

Community members in attendance at the meeting ranked infrastructure and housing are the two most-needed priorities.

In the Tildenville community, residents said new construction around the area results in flooding where no flooding was reported before. Longtime residents have seen flooding get worse over time because of new developments.

The city of Winter Garden has maintenance responsibilities, and it can apply for CDBG-DR funds to conduct infrastructure improvements in qualified areas.

Tildenville-area facilities mentioned include the playground in Tildenville Park off Avalon Road.

Residents said the flooding has not been addressed for some time.

Other area concerns were drainage and ditches, as well as trash pick-up in the neighborhood.

Homeowners in Lakeview Reserve also mentioned their struggle with flooding issues. The community is gated, and the HOA does not have sufficient funds in its reserve to address the continuous flooding or to make infrastructure improvements. The community residents said they have been in communication with the city of Winter Garden staff.

Other community members in attendance voiced concerns, including renters who reported loss of personal property not being covered by insurance; mitigation protection and the restoration of urban wetlands to aid in drainage and flooding; postdisaster effects such as power outages and debris removal still being needed; and public service needs such as mental-health services and job training and placement for younger individuals.

Saturday, November 11, 8:00 am to 12:00 pm The City of Winter Garden will host a free document shredding event for its residents to commemorate America Recycles Day. Crown Information Management will provide safe and secure document shredding. You can watch your documents get shredded, plus all shredded material will be recycled!

When: Saturday, November 11, 8:00 am to 12:00 pm or until the truck gets full Location: 848 E. Plant Street (Across from the Winter Garden Library)

*Must bring proof of residency.

NEXT STEPS

Following the community engagement and outreach process, a draft action plan will be published for public comments in November.

The next steps include a County Commission public hearing for the action plan in December and submission of the action plan to the HUD for review in January.

If approved, the county will begin implementation of the programs.

The county will have six years from the agreement execution date to spend the funds.

The CDBG-DR program is expected to launch early 2024.

The county has made a resident survey available on its CDBG-DR website.

Orange County currently is not accepting any applications for funding. The public will be notified when applications are accepted.

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ANNABELLE SIKES

OrangeObserver.com

OBSERVER | THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 2023

Isleworth estate sells for $3.3M A home in the Isleworth

HERITAGE BAY

Orange-area residential

The home at 8854 Oak Landings Court, Orlando, sold Oct. 3, for $780,000. Built in 1997, it has six bedrooms, four baths and 3,141 square feet of living area. Days on market: 31.

real-estate transactions

HIDDEN BEACH

community in Win-

dermere topped all West

from Oct. 1 to 7.

The home at 4812 Alexandra Garden Court, Windermere, sold Oct. 6, for $3.3

The home at 5221 Conch Court, Orlando, sold Oct. 2, for $529,000.

Built in 1986, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,172 square feet of living area. Days on market: Five.

HIDDEN SPRINGS

has three bedrooms, three

The home at 5212 Abelia Drive, Orlando, sold Oct. 2, for $545,000.

Built in 1983, it has five bedrooms, three baths and 3,524 square feet of living area. Days on market: 18.

baths, two half-baths and

ORANGE BAY

million. Built in 2007, it

Five. The selling agent was

The home at 6367 Edge O Grove Circle, Orlando, sold Oct. 3, for $651,800. Built in 1983, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,361 square feet of living area. Days on market: Five.

Monica Lochmandy, Isle-

PALM LAKE MANOR

4,262 square feet of living area. Days on market:

selling homes in each com-

The home at 8703 Palm Lake Drive, Orlando, sold Oct. 2, for $1,432,500. Built in 2005, it has five bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths and 4,646 square feet of living area. Days on market: 67.

munity in West Orange.

SAND LAKE HILLS

worth Realty LLC. These are the highest-

DR. PHILLIPS

BRISTOL PARK

The home at 9502 Portbury Drive, Orlando, sold Oct. 2, for $1,025,000. Built in 1992, it has five bedrooms, five baths and 3,250 square feet of living area.

Days on market: 46.

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The home at 6039 Hardrock Circle, Orlando, sold Oct. 4, for $565,000. Built in 1983, it has five bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,512 square feet of living area. Days on market: Seven.

WINDHOVER CONDOMINIUMS

The condo at 5866 Peregrine Ave., No. A02, Orlando, sold Oct. 5, for $160,000. Built in 1974, it has one bedrooms, one bath and 591 square feet of living area. Days on market: Five.

Courtesy photo

The home at 4812 Alexandra Garden Court, Windermere, sold Oct. 6, for $3.3 million. This custom-built home is nestled in the exclusive Gardens of Isleworth. The selling agent was Monica Lochmandy, Isleworth Realty LLC.

INDEPENDENCE/ SIGNATURE LAKES

The townhouse at 14431 Prunningwood Place, Winter Garden, sold Oct. 5, for $370,000. Built in 2005, it has two bedrooms, twoand-one-half baths and 1,228 square feet of living area. Days on market: 25.

redfin.com

The home at 8703 Palm Lake Drive, Orlando, sold Oct. 2, for $1,432,500. It was the largest transaction in Dr. Phillips from Oct. 1 to 7. The selling agent was Zac Kluytenaar, The K Team.

HORIZON WEST HAWKSMOOR

HICKORY HAMMOCK

The home at 16089 Parkwyn St., Winter Garden, sold Oct. 5, for $680,000. Built in 2020, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,470 square feet of living area. Days on market: 21.

The townhouse at 8061 Glenlloyd Ave., Winter Garden, sold Oct. 2, for $435,000. Built in 2019, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 1,768 square feet of living area. Days on market: 24.

The home at 15586 Hamlin Blossom Ave., Winter Garden, sold Oct. 3, for $565,000. Built in 2017, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,010 square feet of living area.

Days on market: Five.

The townhouse at 15141 Sunrise Grove Court, Winter Garden, sold Oct. 2, for $390,000. Built in 2017, it has three bedrooms, two-andone-half baths and 1,604 square feet of living area. Days on market: Two.

The townhouse at 7022 Broomshedge Trail, Winter Garden, sold Oct. 2, for $342,000.

Built in 2012, it has two bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,094 square feet of living area. Days on market: 29.

LAKESHORE PRESERVE

The townhouse at 8865 Lakeshore Pointe Drive, Winter Garden, sold Oct. 2, for $700,000.

Built in 2016, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 2,519 square feet of living area.

LAKESIDE AT HAMLIN

The home at 15056 Lake Bessie Loop, Winter Garden, sold Oct. 3, for $641,836. Built in 2023, it has four bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 2,701 square feet of living area. Days on market: 43.

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REAL ESTATE

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OrangeObserver.com

LAKESIDE AT LAKES OF WINDERMERE

ISLEWORTH

The condo at 8156 Boat Hook Loop, No. 627, Windermere, sold Oct. 3, for $354,000. Built in 2006, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,332 square feet of living area. Days on market: 27.

KEENE’S POINTE

The home at 4812 Alexandra Garden Court, Windermere, sold Oct. 6, for $3.3 million. Built in 2007, it has three bedrooms, three baths, two half-baths and 4,262 square feet of living area. Days on market: Five.

The condo at 8156 Boat Hook Loop, No. 207, Windermere, sold Oct. 6, for $379,000. Built in 2006, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,455 square feet of living area. Days on market: Six.

Tytos Photography

SUMMERLAKE

The home at 14747 Snowy Egret St., Winter Garden, sold Oct. 6, for $628,000. Built in 2013, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,775 square feet of living area.

Days on market: Six. WATERLEIGH

The home at 10194 Atwater Bay Drive, Winter Garden, sold Oct. 4, for $745,000. Built in 2019, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,542 square feet of living area. Days on market: 45.

The townhouse at 16355 Loggerhead Way, Winter Garden, sold Oct. 6, for $405,000. Built in 2021, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,626 square feet of living area.

Days on market: 32.

WINDERMERE LANDINGS

The home at 6275 Golden Dewdrop Trail, Windermere, sold Oct. 5, for $505,000. Built in 2012, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,139 square feet of living area.

Days on market: Eight.

WINDERMERE TRAILS

The home at 9150 Outlook Rock Trail, Windermere, sold Oct. 6, for $750,000. Built in 2015, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,988 square feet of living area. Days on market: 33.

SNAPSHOT

Total Sales: 51 High Sale Price: $3.3 million Low Sale Price: $160,000

The home at 8432 Powder Ridge Trail, Windermere, sold Oct. 6, for $575,000. Built in 2016, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 2,456 square feet of living area. Days on market: 53.

The townhouse at 8650 Wellington Blue Lane, Windermere, sold Oct. 3, for $450,000. Built in 2016, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,631 square feet of living area. Days on market: 17.

OAKLAND

TRAILSIDE STATION

The home at 1111 Railside Way, Oakland, sold Oct. 2, for $500,000. Built in 2000, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,213 square feet of living area. Days on market: Eight.

OCOEE

AMBER RIDGE

The home at 2136 Hedgerow Circle, Ocoee, sold Oct. 3, for $355,000.

Built in 1992, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,442 square feet of living area. Days on market: Three.

FAIRFAX VILLAGE

The home at 171 Lansbrook Court, Ocoee, sold Oct. 6, for $439,000.

Built in 1993, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,696 square feet. Days on market: Five.

HAMMOCKS

The home at 1009 Ginger Spice Lane, Ocoee, sold Oct. 6, for $485,000. Built in 1990, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,206 square feet of living area. Days on market: Four.

OCOEE RESERVE

The home at 2513 Ocoee Reserve Court, Ocoee, sold Oct. 5, for $391,000. Built in 2020, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,592 square feet of living area.

Days on market: 18.

SOUTHWEST ORANGE

ROYAL CYPRESS PRESERVE

The home at 10409 Angel Oak Court, Orlando, sold Oct. 6, for $840,000. Built in 2018, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,298 square feet of living area. Days on market: 46.

The home at 6222 Greatwater Drive, Windermere, sold Oct. 3, for $2,681,115. Built in 1999, it has five bedrooms, five baths and 6,038 square feet of living area. Days on market: 11 TOWN OF WINDERMERE

The home at 729 Main St., Windermere, sold Oct. 3, for $1,875,000.

Built in 2015, it has five bedrooms, four baths and 3,950 square feet of living area. Days on market: 13.

TUSCANY RIDGE

The home at 9155 Panzani Place, Windermere, sold Oct. 5, for $898,000. Built in 2005, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 3,088 square feet of living area. Days on market: 18.

WINTER GARDEN

FULLERS CROSSING

The home at 1032 Burland Circle, Winter Garden, sold Oct. 5, for $505,000. Built in 2005, it has five bedrooms, two baths and 2,487 square feet of living area.

HERITAGE AT PLANT STREET

The townhouse at 656 Orange Belt Loop, Winter Garden, sold Oct. 3, for $520,000. Built in 2018, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 1,850 square feet of living area. Days on market: 11.

OAKLAND PARK

The home at 876 Landrum Drive, Winter Garden, sold Oct. 3, for $783,000. Built in 2014, it has three bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 2,485 square feet of living area. Days on market: 27.

The home at 947 Honeywood Alley, Winter Garden, sold Oct. 6, for $735,000. Built in 2022, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 2,717 square feet of living area. Days on market: 152.

STONEYBROOK WEST

The home at 1331 Castleport Road, Winter Garden, sold Oct. 6, for $559,900. Built in 2001, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,390 square feet of living area. Days on market: Three.

WESTFIELD LAKES

The home at 312 English Lake Drive, Winter Garden, sold Oct. 2, for $812,000. Built in 1999, it has five bedrooms, three baths and 2,833 square feet of living area.

Days on market: Three.

WEST ORANGE CASABELLA

The home at 4273 Isabella Circle, Windermere, sold Oct. 2, for $1,860,000. Built in 2016, it has five bedrooms, five-and-one-half baths and 4,456 square feet of living area.

Days on market: 149.

WINDERMERE

ESTATES AT WINDERMERE

The home at 2509 Ridgewind Way, Windermere, sold Oct. 4, for $1,425,000. Built in 1998, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 3,844 square feet of living area. Days on market: 11.

realtor.com

The home at 312 English Lake Drive, Winter Garden, sold Oct. 2, for $812,000. It was the largest transaction in Winter Garden from Oct. 1 to 7. The selling agent was Rita Phillips, Florida Realty Investments.

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The townhouse at 7375 Mezzano Lane, Winter Garden, sold Oct. 2, for $452,840. Built in 2023, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,843 square feet of living area.

Days on market: 171.

The home at 10194 Atwater Bay Drive, Winter Garden, sold Oct. 4, for $745,000.

It was the largest transaction in Horizon West from Oct. 1 to 7. The selling agent was Deborah Armitage, Robert Slack LLC.

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MEZZANO

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OBSERVER | THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 2023

OrangeObserver.com

OBSERVER | THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 2023

WHEN YOU WORK WITH ME, YOU WORK WITH THE

#1 NAME IN

REAL ESTATE BAPTIST

EPISCOPAL

First Baptist Church Church of the Messiah Pastor Tim Grosshans 241 N. Main St., Winter Garden I Know West Orange 125 E. Plant St, Winter Garden Services: 8, 9:30, & 11 AM, (407) 656-2352 4 PM (French & Creole), 7 PM Sundays: 8:30 AM Traditional www.ChurchoftheMessiah.com LEADERSHIP EXCELLENCE 9:45 AM Bible Study AWARD WINNER METHODIST 11 AM Contemporary First United Methodist Wednesdays: 6 PM Awana www.fumcwg.org 2nd Campus: 125 N. Lakeview Ave., First Baptist Church Winter Garden @ Horizon West (407) 656-1135 Services: 9 AM Traditional 15304 Tilden Road, 10:45 AM Contemporary Winter Garden Also viewable on YouTube Sundays: 9:45 AM All Ages www.FBCWG.org NON-DENOMINATIONAL STARKE LAKE BAPTIST ANGLICAN METHODIST Church Orlando NON-DEN CHURCH Starke Lake Baptist Church Purpose FIRST UNITED METHODIST 13640 W Colonial Dr. Ste 110,PURPOSE C ANGLICAN COMMUNITY PO Box 520,Pritchard 611 W Ave, Ocoee Pastor Jeff CHURCH 13640 W. Colo Winter Garden FELLOWSHIP CHURCH Pastor Jeff Pritchard PO Box 520 611 W Ave., 125 N. Lakeview Ave Winter Garden Winter Garden Rector The Rev. Canon Tim Trombitas (407) 654-9661 (407) 656-2351 Ocoee Service Times 9:00 AM and 11:15 AM Scan here to1146 East Plant St, Winter Garden Sunday Service: 10:05 AM 407-654-9661 www.starkelakebaptist.org Phone – 407-656-1135 Fellowship 9:4 (407) 656-2351 SUNDAY SERVICE 10:00 AM Sunday Brazilian Service: 7 PM Web: fumcwg.org www.StarkeLakeBaptist.org get started. Find us at: Theacf.net Saturday Service: 6 PM CHURCH OF GOD www.purposechurchorlando.org OCOEE CHURCHChurch OF GOD Victory Baptist UNITED CHURCH OF BAPTIST Pastor ThomasAcademy Odom & Christian CHRIST 1105 N. Lakewood Ocoee BEULAH BAPTIST 1601 A.D. Mims Avenue, Rd,Ocoee WINDERMERE UNION CHURCH 407-656-8011 Pastor Casey Butner (407) 656-3097 10710 Park Ridge-Gotha Rd. www.tennillebiggers.com 671 Beulah Rd, Winter Garden Sunday: 11 AM & 6 PM Windermere, FL 34786 EPISCOPAL 407-656-3342 | BeulahBaptistWG.org Wednesday: 7 PM 407-876-2112 Worship times: (850) 628-4455 CHURCH OF THE MESSIAH SUNDAY BIBLE STUDY 9:30AM www.VBCOCOEE.com 9:00am Adult Sunday School

CHURCH

Ready to Make a Move?

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 413260-1 125 E Plant St., Winter Garden 407-656-2352 SUNDAYS 8:30 am Traditional 9:45 am Bible Study 11:00 am Contemporary WEDNESDAYS - 6pm - Awana Pastor Tim Grosshans www.fbcwg.org 2nd Campus: FOUNDATION WORSHIP SUNDAYS 9:45 am - All Ages Foundation Academy High School 15304 Tilden Rd., Winter Garden www.FoundationWorship.com 407-730-1867

d i l a o y H C e h r e a er h S

241 N. Main, Winter Garden Services: 8, 9:30,OF & 11am, 7pm CHURCH GOD www.churchofthemessiah.com Ocoee Church of God

10:00am Worship www.windermereunion.org

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

MIKE YOAKUM PASTOR

P: 407.656.1520 C: 407.758.3570 MYOAKUM407@AOL.COM

1333 EAST CROWN POINT RD. OCOEE, FL 34761

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Every holiday season for the past 26 years, Reading Reindeer has gifted new books to underserved families in West Orange County.

This is only possible thanks to the continued support of our community.

If your business, school or group is interested in hosting a collection site for our 2023 book drive, please contact us at (407) 656-2121 or abrunelle@orangeobserver.com for more information.

XNSP21470

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OBSERVER

SCHOOL ZONE NOVEMBER 2, 2023

Dr. Phillips’ show features music from the Harry Potter movies.

Right: Horizon performed its 2023 show, ‘YOUNG.’

TAKING THE FIELD Dr. Phillips’ color guard features Harry Potter-inspired costumes.

Left: West Orange’s band commanded the audience’s attention throughout its performance.

PHOTOS BY THOMAS LIGHTBODY TK PHOTOGRAPHY

B

The Ocoee marching band is under the direction of Bernie Hendricks Jr.

ands from throughout Central Florida marched into Raymond Screws Stadium Saturday, Oct. 21, for West Orange High School’s West Side Showcase.

The event gave the bands a chance to perform their 2023 marching shows in front of family members, friends and other bands. Participating bands this year included Apopka, Dr. Phillips, Freedom, Horizon, Ocoee, West Orange, Windermere and Winter Park.

— MICHAEL ENG

Windermere’s show features a stage on the 50-yard line.

West Orange’s band was excited to perform at its showcase.

Horizon’s color guard brought plenty of visual pizzazz to the field.

Right: Ocoee’s show featured music from Super Mario Bros., The Legend of Zelda, Tetris, Halo and more.

OrangeObserver.com

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OBSERVER | THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 2023

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What brought you to your school?

The location of the school and the fact that my child would be coming here one day.

What do you love most about your school?

I love that we are a Whispering Oak family that looks out for (one another).

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

To see the spark in a student’s eyes when they have found a book that they like and want to share that book with their peers.

Who was your favorite teacher when you were in school? Why? I would say it was Mrs. Khan. She was the first female teacher I came across who was of Asian origin (Indian). As a child, that was really big, especially growing up in England having a role model like that.

I loved that she allowed us to share our culture with other students and made us feel proud of who we are.

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Nimisha Chotai serves as Whispering Oak Elementary School’s media specialist, librarian, digital assistant, textbook coordinator, leadership team member, Battle of the Books team member, News Crew coordinator and substitute teacher, and she handles lunch duty and afternoon duty.

“Mrs. Chotai works with assisting the school with their technology needs, assists students with reading and choosing good books, coaches the Battle of the Books team, (and) contributes to student information and recognition through coordinating the morning announcements and student recognition programs,” Principal Kip Montgomery said. “Mrs. Chotai is more of a behind-the-scenes person, however, the work she does contributes greatly to the school culture and student success. We couldn’t do it without her.”

Who influences you?

That’s a tough one; there’s no one individual. It really depends on the situation.

CALL TODAY FOR MORE INFORMATION

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WHISPERING OAK ELEMENTARY

What would you be if you weren’t in this profession?

I’m not sure. It would definitely be something that involves working with others, maybe training for adults.

KNOW YOUR IMPLANT OPTIONS!

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NIMISHA CHOTAI

1317 Winter Garden Vineland Rd. Ste. 110, Winter Garden, FL 34787

What is your favorite children’s book and why?

“The Little Mouse, the Red Ripe Strawberry and the Big Hungry Bear,” by Don and Audrey Wood.

What do you like to do in your

REPORT CARD

POSITION: Media specialist TIME WITH OCPS: 23 years

spare time?

Spending time with my family and friends, going to the movies, and traveling.

If you could dine with any famous person, past or present, who would it be and why?

It’s a tossup between Oprah Winfrey and Michelle Obama. They are such an inspiration to young girls and women — that anything is possible if you work hard.

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

Charisma.

If you could only listen to three bands or artists, who would they be and why?

Celine Dion and Ed Sheeran, because they both have such powerful voices and I love their ballads. Genesis/ABBA brings up fond childhood memories.

What is your favorite holiday and why?

Thanksgiving and Christmas, because that’s the time that our whole family, including extended family, spend time together. Just love that!

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

I loved to play badminton, and I was on the school netball team.

— AMY QUESINBERRY

SCHOOL

BRIEFS WINDERMERE BAND WINS COMPETITION

The Windermere High School marching won every award possible at the 2023 University Classic, held Saturday, Oct. 28, at University High School, Orlando. With a score of 87.85, the band was crowned Grand Champions.

It also won caption awards for Class 4A and Best Overall for color guard, percussion, music performance, visual performance and general effect.

TEACH-IN WEEK IS NOV. 13-17 The Foundation for Orange County Public Schools is searching for community leaders and business people to participate in Teach-In Week, scheduled for Nov. 13-17.

National Teach-In Day is Thursday, Nov. 16.

Each November, in celebration of American Education Week, the foundation brings business and civic leaders into the classrooms to talk with students about academics, careers and the future. Volunteers can read a book; share an educational experience; give students a window into his or her career; or talk about a favorite vacation, hobby or even a special teacher.

For more information, visit bit. ly/40kIDxv.

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OrangeObserver.com

OBSERVER | THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 2023

3B

OBSERVER SCHOOL ZONE

Aubrey Frink, Gracelyn Angelo and Kamilah Jorgensen dressed in outfits from Toy Story.

A group of students at the school coordinated pirate-themed costumes.

Costumed kids flock to Windermere Truck or Treat

W

Addisyn Dehn and Payton Lindsay helped run the Fright Fest entrance.

indermere High School returned with its annual Halloween event, the Truck or Treat Fest, Wednesday, Oct. 25, in the school’s courtyard.

Wolverines, friends and family members dressed in creative costumes to trick or treat from a multitude of booths hosted by the school’s clubs and teams. The event, led by the Fright Fest Club, also included five interactive scare zones and Fright Fest film highlights, as well as games, food trucks and sweet treats.

The Student Government Association was decked out in Toy Story attire.

Left: The Friends 4 Foster Kids club dressed as characters from “Men in Black.”

— ANNABELLE SIKES

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OrangeObserver.com

OBSERVER | THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 2023

Foundation Academy staging ‘A Christmas Carol’

CAST

The show will be performed Nov. 3 and 4 at the school’s Tilden Campus.

Madelyn Isbel is part of the stage management, and Ashlyn Douglass is working in the show’s sound department.

A CHRISTMAS CAROL WHEN: 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 3, and 2:30 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Saturday, Nov. 4 WHERE: Foundation Academy Tilden Campus, 15304 Tilden Road, Winter Garden TICKETS: $10 for students, staff and children; $15 for standard; and $25 for the first two rows. Available at teachtix.com/foundationacademy.

Courtesy photos

Landin Wilkins and Jorja Csefko portray Belle and Fan Scrooge, respectively.

AMY QUESINBERRY COMMUNITY EDITOR

ChFC, CLU, CLF

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Horizon West – next to Publix at Hamlin

Ebenezer Scrooge and all his ghosts are coming to the Foundation Academy’s Tilden Campus stage for three shows. “A Christmas Carol” is being presented by Greg Csefko, lead drama instructor, and Christina Haak, director of fine arts at the school.

This is the typical “A Christmas Carol” classic story that folks anticipate each year, Haak said.

“It’s a wonderful tradition for many families, so we’re excited to be able to provide this tradition — or perhaps start a new tradition — of changing the heart with their children and families,” she said.

Foundation Academy has presented “A Christmas Carol” in previous years, but this show is new to this group of students and families and takes on a new approach with Csefko.

“We have incredibly talented students,” Haak said. “One of the unique

things about this production — we do have a few of our young students from our elementary campus who are playing the children’s role and (we) give them a chance to perform on the big stage. … We have beautiful costumes and some really interesting technology. Some of our set is going to be an LED, which is pretty unique to have that technology in a high school production.”

Students have been working on this production all semester, and the different departments are teaming up to ensure the show is a success. This includes a student-led tech crew, students helping with costumes and makeup, a stage crew working in audio and visual, and others creating some of the show’s props.

As part of the performances, an art gallery will carry out the “A Christmas Carol” theme. The school’s art program is presenting 2D and 3D art, including ceramics and photography.

“It’s a nice way to tie the departments together,” Haak said.

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24 It creates a flap for airlines 25 ___ Pitcher (Revolutionary War nickname) 26 Mayo is part of one 27 Spreadsheet virtuoso?

29 Creche crew 31 Con 33 Director Sergio

LIGHTING Luke Hurley Ty Olesen Maxwell Markham STAGE HANDS Katie Schreiber Ali Schreiber TJ Hawksley Grace Gibson

HAIR & MAKEUP Jennifer Csefko Danielle Belanger Avery Olesen SETS AND PROP AP Art Delaney Crockett Landin Wilkins Brighton Simmons Brayden Wu Adilynne Thompson VIDEO Brielle Lawlor

57 Family

125 Put on the payroll

59 Less filling, on an ad

126 Novelist Ferber

62 Beef buy

127 Sock sort

63 Quarterback’s post-

128 Something from Santa

huddle calls 65 Middle name for “The King”

1 Radio letters

66 Needles

2 Minuteman’s home?

67 Family member

3 King David and others

68 Landing spot for Noah

4 Toddlers’ chain

70 Invent, as a phrase

5 “The Murders in the ___

71 Family member

Morgue”

74 Perfect place

6 Taj Mahal town

77 Kissing in a park, i.e.

7 Start a smear campaign,

80 “Don’t know yet,” on a

for example

sched.

8 Masseur’s place, perhaps

82 HR concern for new hires

9 Catch a broadcast

83 Bubbling with excite-

10 Visa alternative

ment

11 It’s softer than gypsum

84 “Born Free” feline

12 Exterminator’s option

85 Clap

13 Ted Turner, for one

87 Persian tower?

14 Allen or Martin

89 Western tribe

15 Vaccine fluids

90 Bug catcher?

16 Nagoya noodle

93 Muffin stuffin’?

17 It contains four gills

95 Big splash

19 Solzhenitsyn subject

96 Environmental destruc-

21 Wide valleys

tion

23 Italian film producer

100 Joan who co-hosted

Carlo

“Good Morning America”

34 Desperate pirate fight?

sequence

of Arc

28 Producer and director

101 Option that’s less green

38 “Ain’t” corrected

66 U.S. codebreakers

97 SALT signatory

Kazan

than a clothesline

39 With 107-Across, ill-fated 69 Backup device for formal 98 Asian holiday

30 Torn

103 Westernmost capital of

42 Surprised cries

occasions?

99 Texter’s “I lost interest”

32 Concluding pieces

mainland Europe

43 Sequel subtitle, some-

72 TV’s “Science Guy”

102 Secret ring of ballot

34 Boisterous blowout

104 Old calculators

times

73 Start of a remark attrib-

casters?

35 “Cheers” star Perlman

105 “That’s ___!”

44 Rap sheet letters

uted to Louis XV

105 Rival of Lexus

36 “Dang it all!”

108 All the time

46 Asian beer brand

75 Miss Hawkins

106 Fisher of “Wedding

37 Rather (or Rowan, if

109 Actress Olin

48 Cain’s other brother

76 Tee or V-neck

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110 “Don’t worry, only a

50 Night’s counterpart

78 Spur on

107 See 39-Across

39 Fasten with a hammer

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51 Jay with an often-spoofed 79 Money maker

108 Info about payments to

40 Writer who created the

111 Big name in fashion

jaw

81 Ad end?

the ex?

Cisco Kid

magazines

53 More puny

82 Was well established

113 Fed. law enforcement

41 Bombastic blowout

112 Golf club

55 Loses it, big time

86 “Be glad to”

agency

45 Some MMA victories

114 Herr’s partner

57 E or G, e.g.

88 Onion or leek

115 ___ blanche (full author-

47 Concert keepsake

116 Small chamber group

58 Unappetizing meal

90 ___ Paese (type of

ity)

49 Cow chow

117 Auction site without an

60 Bone in an extremity

cheese)

118 Paris publication

52 Stare at intensely

auctioneer

61 Ingrid’s co-star in

91 Bar of a car

119 Soother for crustacean-

53 Bangalore bread

“Anastasia”

92 Stretchy stance

based stomachaches?

62 Top of a tax form

93 Baseball or cricket need

122 Not yet in stock

64 Start of a Superman

94 Sobieski who played Joan 123 “Check this out!”

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

Each letter in the cipher stands for another.

“BNGTA TG YKVCCO SUPRTSZ TH OUN PRTSI VWUNP TP – TP USCO WKAUBKG GUBKPRTSZ XRKS GUBKWUEO CTGPKSG PU TP.”

ZVKC ZVYATV WKYSVC

“UXKLK AOV DSK YLKOU UDRH RDLK GDLMGB UXOS OGG UXK LKVU; XFYK EU AOV. ... DS EU AOV HFU DSK ADLM, MLOTFGO.”

HLOR VUDCKL

“LB OTWDW’G K ZNCB XNMDGW LR TWKPWR, L TNVW LO’G CLSW KMZMGOK RKOLNRKC. L IMGO YNR’O UKRO KR WKDCH OWW OLAW.”

ZKDH VCKHWD

Puzzle Three Clue: X equals C

©2023 Universal Uclick

4 Be a blowhard

SOUND Christian Morelli Allie Frame Ashlyn Douglass

COSTUMES Lillie Sayles Nalani Eastlack

Puzzle Two Clue: B equals Y

124 Island near Corsica

DOWN

1 Vile Nile snake

STAGE MANAGEMENT Madelyn Isbel Gracie Brooks

celebrity cipher

TRAFFIC JAM by Paul Coulter, edited by Jeff Chen

ACROSS

CREW

Puzzle One Clue: D equals G

crossword

Gabriel Csefko: Ebenezer Scrooge Emsley DeLozier: Caroler/Street Girl Dakota Darnell: Dickens Storyteller Dominic Coryatt: Caroler/Little Jimmy Little Liam Griffin: Bob Cratchit Malachi Markham: Fred Hollowell Maddie Engelbert: Pleasant Woman No. 1 Maya Hancock: Pleasant Woman No. 2 Sebastian Perez: Tiny Tim Bella Colon: Ghost of Mrs. Marley/Mrs. Gamp Sydney Ellis: Spirit of Christmas Present Caleb Haak: Child Ebenezer Walker Buckley: Caroler/George Elan Strong: Caroler/Tom Jorja Csefko: Fan Scrooge Brad Bales: Mr. Fezziwig Ryan Wenzel: Young Ebenezer/ Peter Cratchit Patti Cogburn: Mrs. Fezziwig Landin Wilkins: Belle Jaslyn Quintana: Spirit of Christmas Present Emma Fellure: Mrs. Cratchit Penelope Walker: Belinda Cratchit Molly Stephens: Mary Cratchit Ava Stephens: Martha Cratchit Avery East: Clara Hollowell Loreali Forbes: Elizabeth DJ Coryatt: Topper Sienna Koeser: Lilli Jamie Cobb: Laura Alex Reyes: Spirit of Christmas Future Yelise Poster: Mrs. Dilber Shiloh Hillis: Undertaker Sadie Horne: Business Woman No. 1 Miley Starr: Business Woman No. 3 Stella Perez: Business Woman No. 2 Charlee Joe Roldan: Poulterer

© 2023 NEA, Inc.

sudoku

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

120 Jamaican genre 54 Sports update about an 121 “Just a mo,” in chats underdog’s rally 56 Bother

©2023 Andrews McMeel Syndicate

11-2-23

OrangeObserver.com

WEST ORANGE OBITUARIES

OBSERVER | THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 2023

District 4 School Board Member Pam Gould rode in the parade.

Senior Jovenson Lifeur and junior Scarlett Russo waved as they passed by in their car.

lympia High School hosted its first Homecoming Parade Wednesday, Oct. 18, in the heart of downtown Windermere. The Titans shut down Main Street decked out in black, silver and teal to showcase school spirit.

Officers from the Windermere and Ocoee police departments helped to guide the parade from Third to Sixth avenues. Participants in the parade included the 2023 Homecoming Court, the football team, cheerleaders, the band and multiple clubs.

Lucia Sanchez, Jouri Haida, Jack Riley and James Smith attended the parade together.

Sophomore Jovanni Daniels-Krips represented the marching band in the parade.

— ANNABELLE SIKES

In LovIng MeMory

Mr. and Ms. Titan — John Puchein and Gail Stockard — appeared in the parade.

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All our love, Mama, Daddy, Jamie, Jacob, Jared, Renee and Family

Reginald Heber “Flip” Sterns II died peacefully Oct. 20, 2023, at the age of 97.

Reginald is survived by his wife, Jean Sterns, Winter Garden, Florida; son, Reggie Sterns III, of Winter Garden; stepdaughter, Cheryl Rogers Peach, of Winter Garden; 12 grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.

Preceded in death by his father, Reginald Heber Sterns I; mother, Elsie Sterns; sister, Elsie Schneck; son, Mark Sterns; daughter, Mary Sterns Whidden; stepdaughter, Shelly Rogers Clark; and granddaughter, Jennifer Sterns Slack.

Flip was born June 16, 1926, in New York City, New York, to Heber and Elsie. He was raised in the Republic of Panama, where he spent most of his childhood. He moved to St. Petersburg, Florida, in 1942, and enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1944 during World War II as a Signalman on the ship. After leaving the Navy, he went on to The University of Florida.

In 1951, he moved to the City of Winter Garden, where he opened and owned the Western Auto Store on Plant Street Downtown and was a merchant there for 33 years before he retired. For the remainder of his years, he resided in Winter Garden, Florida, a place he loved to call home.

Flip’s wish was not to have a service, however, he was very passionate about preserving the history of the City of Winter Garden; therefore, if you would like to donate to the Winter Garden Heritage Foundation in his name, it would be greatly received and appreciated.

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REGINALD HEBER “FLIP” STERNS II DIED OCT. 20, 2023.

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OrangeObserver.com

OBSERVER | THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 2023

BRAINFOOD The Observer answers kids’ burning curiosities.

Music Makers I Michael Eng // Editor and Publisher Native Americans have a long and rich history. The Sunshine State is home to many Native American tribes, including the Seminole, Calusa, Timucua, Miccosukee and Apalachee. President George H.W. Bush in 1990 declared November as National Native American Heritage Month to honor the culture, traditions, history and way of life of Native Americans. To celebrate, here are some fun ways to make homemade versions of Native American instruments.

HAND DRUM WHAT YOU’LL NEED

• Empty oatmeal container or coffee can with plastic lid • Paper • Tape • Yarn (three different colors) • Watercolor paint • Glue • Decorations (scraps of colorful paper, ribbon, pom poms, etc.)

• Scissors

2. Use the three different colors of yarn to braid a long cord that will serve as a strap to hang the drum over your shoulder or around your neck. The strap will need to be long enough so the drum hangs at about your waist. Using the scissors, make two small holes on opposite sides of the plastic lid, poke the ends of your strap through each and tie together on the underside of the lid.

3. Replace the lid and play!

WHAT YOU’LL NEED

• Paper towel roll • Duct tape • Aluminum foil • A mix of corn kernels, rice and small noodles • Construction paper (color is up to you) • Decorations of your choice (paint, markers, etc.)

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Seal one end of the paper towel roll with duct tape.

2. Make a small tube of aluminum foil that is about the same length as the paper towel roll. Place it inside the roll.

3. Place the mix of corn kernels, rice and small noodles inside the tube. It should be about 1/4 full.

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Cover the outside of the oatmeal container or coffee can with paper and secure with tape. Decorate the can with your chosen decorations and paint.

RAIN STICK

4. Seal the other end of the tube with duct tape.

5. Cover the outside of the tube with your chosen construction paper and tape it on each end to seal.

PAPIER-MÂCHÉ RATTLE

6. Decorate the outside however you wish. Make it rain!

WHAT YOU’LL NEED

• Two paper plates • Paint stirrer (available at the local hardware store) • Dry beans • Tape • Brown craft paper • Papier-mâché glue • Decorations of your choice (paint, construction paper, feathers, beads, etc.)

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Tape the paint stick to the inside of one of the paper plates. Make sure to leave enough hanging outside of the plate to make a handle.

2. Place the dry beans inside the plate.

3. Place the second plate on top and tape them together. Both “tops” of the plates should be facing inside, so the “bottoms” are on the outside.”

4. Using the brown craft paper and papiermâché glue, seal the opening between the two plates so no beans can escape.

5. Decorate the plates and handle however you like. Have fun!

RECOMMENDED READING NON-FICTION n ‘Red Bird Sings: The story of Zitkala-Sa, Native American Author, Musician, and Activist’ by Gina Capaldi & Q.L. Pearce; illustrated by Gina Capaldi n ‘A Kid’s Guide to Native American History: More than 50 activities’ by Yvonne Wakim Dennis and Arlene Hirschfelder FICTION n ‘How Coyote Stole the Summer: A Native American Folktale’ adapted by Stephen Krensky; illustrated by Kelly Dupre n ‘The Girl Who Helped Thunder and Other Native American Folktales’ retold by James Bruchac and Joseph Bruchac; illustrated by Stefano Vital

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ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

OrangeObserver.com

OBSERVER | THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 2023

GAME OF THE WEEK

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

WINDERMERE (3-6) VS. HORIZON (4-5), 7 P.M.

Estelle Aubert Lake Buena Vista High School sophomore outside hitter Estelle Aubert is emerging as a leader for the Lady Vipers volleyball team. In 60 sets played, Auburt has compiled 137 kills, 24 assists and 41 blocks.

She recently was named her school’s Player of the Week.

How did it feel to be named Player of the Week at your school?

I’m very happy about it. I think it’s a great opportunity to also show off volleyball as a sport in the school. Considering that we are also brand new, not a lot of people pay attention to specific sports, so I’m really happy about that. I’m also really happy that I’m being recognized as a player, because I’m only a sophomore, so I think it’s a big deal that they are recognizing sophomores already.

THE BASICS

Age: 15 Sport: Volleyball Position: Outside hitter, opposing hitter and middle blocker Grade: Sophomore School: Lake Buena Vista

how did she keep pushing through even though she was so young and so many people kept talking about her and everything she was going through.

What do you love most about volleyball as a sport?

The energy and the people. You can get really close with your teammates — especially because this is very much a mental sport.

What do you believe volleyball has taught you on and off the court?

To be a good friend and a good teammate. Even if people are making mistakes, you may be a little (angry) if someone misses a point. But bringing someone down is not going to help anybody, so you still have to bring everyone up and encourage everybody. I feel like that kind of pushes me to do it outside of volleyball, too.

Looking back, what would you say to your 10-year-old self?

I moved to the United States when I was 10 years old, and I didn’t know the language at that time. So I would probably tell my 10-year-old self that things are going to change, and it’s always going to be for the better.

If you could write a letter to your future self, what would you say?

I would ask if I stayed in the United States or if I went back to Switzerland and what did I end up choosing to study to make my life.

What is your biggest fear?

Spiders.

What is your favorite hobby?

I would say going to Universal with my friends or reading.

Who is you favorite superhero?

Why? Wonder Woman, because she didn’t let the fact that she was a woman deprive her.

What are three things you would take with you to a deserted island?

I would take board games. I’d bring a boat and floaties.

Who is your favorite Disney character? Why? Pluto, because he always had great energy, and he was always so funny and entertaining.

What is your favorite movie?

“Five Feet Apart.” I like it because it’s based on how somebody is putting themselves at risk for someone they love, so I think it has a nice message behind it.

If you could choose one person you admire to have dinner with, who would it be?

Taylor Swift. I would ask her

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

To read people’s minds. I always wonder what people think about me in general, and I always want to know what they actually mean when they say something.

What are three places you would like to visit? Why? Italy, because I’ve always seen the rivers, and the food there is so nice. Norway, because I’ve always heard people are so happy there. … And probably somewhere in Asia — Japan — because it’s a brand new culture that I’m not used to.

If you could go back in time to a specific period of history, which one would it be and why?

I would say World War II. I’ve always been really interested in how it really happened.

What color would you say represents your personality? Why? Green because one, it’s my favorite color, and two, I feel like I’m always very energetic around people, and I’m always bubbly.

When I think about energetic and bubbly, I think of yellow and blue, so I’m somewhere in-between.

If you could be an animal for a day, which one would you be and why?

I would be a bird, so I can fly somewhere I’ve never seen.

— ANDREA MUJICA

Athlete of the Week sponsored by:

BEST FOR LAST Andrea Mujica

As two of the newest programs in West Orange, Windermere and Horizon are renewing their rivalry for the final game of the season.

STAFF WRITER

S

ince August, the Horizon Hawks have had this game circled on the calendar.

Now in their third season, the Hawks will face their Horizon West rival — Windermere — at 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 3, at Deputy Scott Pine Community Park. And with Windermere’s new on-campus stadium approved by the Orange County Commission, this could be the final game the Wolverines play on their former home field.

“This is still a new school, it’s our third year open, so we are kind of always young,” head football coach Dennis Thomas said. “But, I never make that excuse for anything. …

The advantage (of being young) would be that it’s a clean slate, and you are just trying to build their minds with no dirt on that, no drama on that. … And when you have that kind of thing, you just get to build.”

As in years past, the defense continues to be a strength for the Hawks.

“For defense, I feel like we’ve been pretty good this year; we’ve always had a really good defense since our school started,” senior linebacker Bo Kenney said. “Offensively, we’ve been a little bit more struggling this year. But we are picking it up. We are inputting a lot more stuff, and we are getting a lot more technical — working on the little things such as getting out and getting the little yards, not those big runs. Just getting the little things.”

“Offensively, we run the ball, we have a running back who is one of the top in the state as far as rushing yards,” Thomas said. “Defensively, we bring pressure, and we have a pretty good linebacker.”

THE HAWKS EYE Every season, the Horizon Hawks learn about The Hawks Eye, a wetland located in front of the school. During construction, ancient relics were found on-site.

“We kind of use to as this kind of aura, I guess, for home games, so all players know about it,” head football coach Dennis Thomas said. “I’m a goofy guy, so they hear me kind of talking about it.” “(Coach Thomas) says it protects the Hawks,” senior linebacker Bo Kenney said. “We don’t like to lose on our home field, so it’s like a lucky charm for us, I guess. It’s been there for like thousands of years or something. There’s a lot of weird vibes from this field, we get Disney’s fireworks coming from (one side) and then we have (The Hawks Eye) over there, so I mean, it’s definitely weird.”

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FRIDAY, NOV. 3 n 7 p.m. Windermere (3-6) vs.

Horizon (4-5)

OTHER ACTION FRIDAY, NOV. 3 n 7 p.m Olympia (7-2) at South Lake (2-7) n 7 p.m. Foundation Academy (6-3) at West Oaks Academy (4-5) n 7 p.m. The First Academy (5-4) vs. Windermere Prep (1-6) n 7:30 p.m. West Orange (3-6) vs. Osceola (3-6) n 7 p.m. Lake Buena Vista (44) vs. Colonial (1-8)

Through the years, the Hawks have had a 2-8 overall season record (2021-22), a 7-3 overall season record (2022-23) and currently are 4-3 this year.

“It’s just our mentality,” Kenney said. “Our first year, we didn’t have seniors, so we felt we were just the young (team) and the brand-new school. We’ve never played together, we didn’t know (one another).

So, over the summer, we got more team chemistry, and we got to know each other, we became family. So, it’s becoming closer and working hard together.”

Hard work, dedication and perseverance have been key for Horizon season after season, and that has brought a sense of trust and confidence to the players in the team.

“I think we just work hard, there’s no secret sauce of anything,” Thomas said. “If there’s a secret to anything, it’s just working our butts off. We work hard, and we believe in ourselves. We always have a chance in any game.”

Of course, as with any young team, Horizon’s coaches also are challenged with teaching the game to players new to the sport.

“If we teach the game, I feel like they learn the game,” Thomas said.

“One of the things I say is, ‘If you can say something 1,000 times, they won’t get it until 1,001. So, you just have to keep doing it.’”

The Hawks are excited to end their regular season against the Wolverines.

“It’s a big game, it’s a rivalry game,” Thomas said. “We’ve won the last two, and we are going to work our butts off to try to win it three in a row.”

“It’s a big game for us, for me, especially, because I played (for Windermere) myShannon freshman year,” Till, Agent Kenney said. “My game that Fowler’sfirst Grove 3279 Daniels Rd I Garden, FL 34787and ever played wasWinter on their field, Toll Free: to 855-742-1591 my last game is going be on that www.shannontill.com same field. So, it’s definitely a big game. It’s a full-circle moment for me.”

LAST WEEK’S RESULTS GAME OF THE WEEK Foundation Academy (6-3), 49 The First Academy (5-4), 41 HIGHLIGHTS: Foundation Academy and The First Academy treated football fans to an offensive shootout, with the Lions getting the win 49-41 over the Royals Friday, Oct. 27, at home. What’s more, the win secures Foundation a spot in the playoffs.

UP NEXT: The Lions travel to West Oaks Academy Friday, Nov. 3. TFA will host Windermere Prep Friday, Nov. 3.

OTHER RESULTS THURSDAY OCT. 26 Olympia (7-2), 34 West Orange (3-6), 20 HIGHLIGHTS: Olympia took a 22-7 lead into halftime and never looked back as it claimed the coveted Fence trophy. The Titans rode to victory on its vaunted rushing attack. Senior Romelo Ware piled up an astonishing 303 yards on 26 carries — a whopping 11.7 average yards per attempt — and four touchdowns.

UP NEXT: Olympia travels to South Lake Friday Nov. 3.

West Orange hosts Osceola Friday, Nov. 3.

Dr. Phillips (6-3), 27 Ocoee (4-6), 19 HIGHLIGHTS: DP outlasted a fiery Ocoee squad (4-6), 27-19, to improve to 6-3 and 3-1 in Class 4M, District 5.

DP took a 20-6 lead into halftime on Ocoee’s Senior Night.

UP NEXT: DP is scheduled to travel to Jones Friday, Nov. 3.

Horizon (4-5), 0 Jones (6-3), 56 UP NEXT: Horizon visits Windermere Friday, Nov. 3.

FRIDAY, OCT. 27 Windermere Prep (1-6), 31 Neumann (Naples) (4-4), 44 UP NEXT: Windermere Prep will travel to The First Academy Friday, Nov. 3.

Family.

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Lake Buena Vista (4-4), 7 Bishop Moore (6-3), 56 UP NEXT: LBV welcomes Colonial Friday, Nov. 3.

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