11.23.23 West Orange Times & Observer

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

Observer Winter Garden, Ocoee, Oakland

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VOLUME 90, NO. 47

Giving it his best shot!

Colby O’Brien, 22, is the entrepreneur behind Ocoee’s newest coffee shop. SEE PAGE 7A.

Ocoee welcomes new fire captain

A WINTER WONDERLAND

Brad Chancey joins the Ocoee department after 30 years with the Orlando Fire Department SEE 2A.

YOUR TOWN

DRIVERS NEEDED TO DELIVER THANKSGIVING BOXES The Southeastern Food Bank is looking for volunteers to deliver food to more than 1,000 families in need in West Orange County. Drivers will meet at West Orlando Baptist Church, 1006 E. Crown Point Road, Ocoee, starting at 7 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 23.

Volunteer drivers will be issued maps with the addresses designated to receive the approximately 27 pounds of food, meat, produce and baked goods that will feed a family for three to five days. The boxes and bags are packed to provide a balanced variety of food products, including rice, cereal, sugar, drinks, snacks and pasta, which have been donated by Publix and Kroger supermarkets.

Those wanting to help can contact the SFB by calling (407) 654-7777 or through the online form at southeasternfoodbank.com/ events. Volunteers can also deliver even if they have not registered.

For weeks, the volunteers have been sorting and packing at least a semitrailer load of food to help low-income families have a Thanksgiving meal that might otherwise be financially out of reach.

This is the 31st year for the Food for Families program, which delivers food in West Orange County in the spring and for Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Amy Quesinberry

Sean Sirois’ 281 Christmas village pieces take up two rooms in his Winter Garden home.

Winter Garden resident Sean Sirois’ Christmas display features 281 village pieces inside and 301,000 lights outside.

STORY ON PAGE 4A.

Hope Church recognizes two at annual Hero Day The Winter Garden church honored Windermere Police Chief Dave Ogden and Orange County Sheriff’s Office’s Mike Milmerstadt, who died March 23.

PAGE 6A.

FAITH-FILLED FUN Horizon West Church welcomes fall season with 2023 Fall Street Party. SEE PAGE 6B.

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OrangeObserver.com

OBSERVER | THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2023

Brad Chancey joins Ocoee Fire Department ANNABELLE SIKES NEWS EDITOR

Annabelle Sikes

Capt. Brad Chancey, right, will help Chief Tom Smothers, left, lead the Ocoee Fire Department.

INVALUABLE EXPERIENCE

When serving with the Orlando department, Chancey said the units he was able to work on were high volume and high profile, with lots of calls and action.

His final shift with the department was on the last day of August, where he was still riding in a fire truck on calls.

The Orlando department was Chancey’s second family, and he wants every firefighter to have that same experience.

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“I’m hoping to work with — it’s a smaller city and a smaller department — I hope to work with them obviously to get them up to speed and up to date on some stuff, as well as bring experience to the train-

play an essential role in the training for the new device.

“With his years of experience with Orlando and being on a tower truck most of his time there, I know that that’s a direction we will be heading and having some shortcomings here, so I think having him will be a great benefit to our department and our personnel here on preparing us for the future needs of our city,” Smothers said.

FAMILY TRADITIONS

Born and raised in Orlando, Chancey grew up in the Maitland area and now lives in College Park.

He is a second-generation firefighter and is following in his father’s footsteps. His father left the Orlando Fire Department to become a training officer at the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority’s Fire Department before becoming fire chief.

Chancey’s uncle also was a firefighter, as were both of his cousins.

When Chancey isn’t working, he can be found fishing or spending time with his family: wife, Chelle; daughter, Ellie; and son, Gradey.

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The Ocoee Fire Department has added a new member to its family.

Brad Chancey will serve as the new captain for the department, assuming the duties of fire training officer.

Chancey joins the department after retiring from the Orlando Fire Department following 30 years of service. He started with that department when he was only 20 years old.

“I’ve always loved the fire service,” he said. “It’s about helping people. It’s a pretty good feeling when you’re able to go somewhere where something really bad is happening and work to have a positive outcome. Sometimes, the positive outcome doesn’t work out, but it’s about being there to try to make that difference. I also enjoy it because it’s always something different. You never know what you’re going to see or what you’re going to be involved in.”

ing,” he said. “I also want to help to foster a good camaraderie and fire department culture. Teamwork, so everyone can rely on each other and feel good about what we all do.”

Although Chancey was planning for retirement from the Orlando department, he knew he wasn’t done serving. He said he only left because he served the maximum amount of time he could with the city.

Oct. 23 was Chancey’s first day with the Ocoee Fire Department.

As fire training officer, his responsibilities include making sure firefighters meet the requirements of training and hours they must have for the year.

“My responsibility is to make sure that it’s good, quality training and not just a box we’re checking off,” he said. “I want to make sure it’s beneficial and also enjoyable.”

Chief Tom Smothers said Chancey comes to the Ocoee department at the perfect time.

The department has a new tower apparatus, a first of its kind in the city, expected to arrive January 2024.

A tower ladder apparatus differs from a conventional ladder truck in that it is equipped with a basket or bucket at the tip of the ladder.

This will help the department with access to the newer and taller developed buildings in the city, such as City Hall.

Although there is no estimated date for start of service of the tower truck, Chancey will

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OBSERVER | THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2023

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1933-2023

Lowell Teal: Winter Garden’s wordsmith Teal grew up in small-town Winter Garden, and his love of the city’s history led him to capture the local stories in writing.

COMMUNITY EDITOR

L

owell Teal loved writing about his hometown of Winter Garden and growing up in West Orange County in the 1930s and ’40s. He wrote multiple books, including a five-part tale he called the Bath Pond series, and he weaved stories based on the earliest families in Florida.

He also enjoyed penning memories, sharing stories of going to the downtown movie theater with 15 cents in his pocket, of packinghouses and the ice plant, the tourists’ trailer park, fish camps around Lake Apopka, military camps, his mother’s milk deliveries and, of course, the beloved Bath Pond swimming hole.

Robert Lowell Teal died Nov. 7, 2023.

He was 90.

Teal was born in Winter Garden in 1933 and graduated from Lakeview High School 1951. He herded cattle in his youth and, fond of the life of an outdoorsman, graduated from the University of Florida College of Agriculture and found a career in citrus.

He worked for American Growers for six years before taking a position with Roper Growers.

He shared many stories in a 2022 Facebook Live interview with the Winter Garden Heritage Foundation.

“I went to work with people I’ve known my whole life, people I grew up with, people who were a pleasure to be around,” Teal said of his career with Roper Growers.

He later established a consulting firm, becoming a consultant and a caregiver in the industry. This business evolved into a real estate sales group he opened with Lester Austin called Austin Teal Corporation.

“We were rather successful early on, and some of the bigger realty firms in Orlando and other places knew of us, and instead of trying to sell a grower an orange grove and knowing nothing about it, they sent them to us,” Teal said in the interview. “That was our claim to fame.”

Teal participated in several organizations, including Southern Industrial Relations, Orange County Farm Bureau and the National Speakers Association. He received a Distinguished Service Award from Florida Farm Bureau in 2020.

His passion for telling stories led him to write how-to books on balancing career and family: “A Happy Heart is a Good Medicine” and “Company Stewardship.” His later years were dedicated to his “Bath Pond” series, starting with “Bath Pond” and continuing with “Fortunes Crossing,” “Inherited Journey,” “Promise to Poppy” and “Going Home.”

The first installment of the series was awarded 2006 Best Florida Fiction by the Florida Publishers Association.

Although the books were historical fiction, there was once an actual lake named Bath Pond located in a grove south of Winter Garden.

“When I was a squirt, everybody

Courtesy photos

Lowell Teal spent most of his life in the orange groves of West Orange County.

went back by Bath Pond from whatever we were doing, took a dip in the lake,” he said in the interview with the WGHF. “Then on the weekend, families would go to Bath Pond. It was mostly single men during the week because they were taking a bath.

“Most of these people would make it a picnic on Sunday afternoon, and they’d go swimming,” Teal said. “That was the cleanest lake you’d ever seen. … It was spring-fed, and you could see the springs. It’s inundated with housing subdivisions, and when they cleaned the areas and drained the areas, they drained mud right into Bath Pond.”

Teal had attended the First United Methodist Church of Winter Garden since birth.

He was married to his wife, Jackie, for 66 years, and they had two daughters, Robyne Hunnicutt and Martha Ficquette; two grandchildren; and a host of nieces and nephews bearing the Teal family name.

“I can only say how blessed I have been to call him my father,” Ficquette said. “He always supported and loved me unconditionally. I never heard him speak an unkind word about anyone.

Our family has been moved by the outpouring of love from everyone he touched in one way or another. He was

Haines selected to fill empty Town Council seat The Town Council approved Brandi Haines as an interim member. She will hold the seat until the March election.

ANNABELLE SIKES NEWS EDITOR

Brandi Haines has been selected to fill the empty seat on the Windermere Town Council on an interim basis.

Haines was nominated by Council Member Andy Williams at the council meeting Tuesday, Nov. 14. The motion was approved 3-1, with Council Member Tony Davit dissenting. Davit’s vote went to Mayor Jim O’Brien’s nomination of Gregg Anderson.

“Actually, I was going to nominate Brandi (also),” Council Member Tom Stroup said. “She’s here at meetings, she stepped right in, she knows all the stuff. Matter of fact, I call her for

Courtesy

Brandi Haines has been involved in the town for many years.

stuff sometimes. It would be an easy transition.”

Haines is excited to serve the people in the town and will temporarily fill the seat until the March 19, 2024, election.

“I have been involved for many years learning about town issues and projects and communicating with other residents to keep them informed,” she said. “I have been

encouraged by many people to run for council, so this is a great opportunity to fill the vacancy as an interim council woman. I am looking forward to the upcoming election in March.”

The seat has been empty since October’s Town Council meeting when former Council Member Molly Rose announced her resignation, effective immediately.

Rose cited the new financial disclosure requirements signed into law by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis this year as the reasoning for her resignation.

“This is a volunteer position, and (my husband) doesn’t want his information being public record,” she said at that meeting. “I appreciate that; I respect that.”

Rose began her first two-year term January 2022.

VISION ZERO POLICY

The council approved the first reading of a resolution adopting a Vision Zero Policy.

The resolution is to state the town supports and adopts the Vision Zero goal of eliminating traffic deaths and severe injuries by 2050 and will seek to build a Vision Zero/Complete Streets Plan to begin to ensure the safety of pedestrians, cyclists and road users of all ages and abilities.

Before being able to obtain implementation grant funding from the Safe Streets and Roads for All program, all municipalities must first draft a Comprehensive Safety Action Plan.

The town had previously started the process to receive grant funds for the Safety Action Plan.

However, Metro Plan Orlando gained grant funding and decided to provide a Safety Action Plan for each municipal entity within the Metro Plan Region as part of its commitment to the Vision Zero program.

This act will provide the town with what is needed to then proceed forward with applying for implemen-

generous and kind. We always knew we came first.”

“My father was an extraordinary and true Southern gentleman,” said his daughter, Robyne Teal Hunnicutt.

“He upheld high morals and exhibited unconditional love. He was an inspiration and positive example to all he encountered. He was a true Christian and exemplified his faith in multiple ways, especially to my mother, his daughters and grandchildren.”

Teal and John Miller were neighbors on Lake Crescent for 35 years, and the two shared a relaxed friendship.

“I’m going to miss him calling me several times a week to ask me, ‘What time is the Gator game’ and ‘What channel is it on?’” Miller said. “Pretty much any time he called me, I would hang up and laugh. … He was a fun person.”

The two went to Webster often, and as they drove along the roads of “old Florida.”

“Everywhere we went, he would say there used to say a grove there, and he would know who owned it and their (history),” Miller said. “That was a constant thing anytime I went anywhere with him.”

The family will host a celebration of life at 3 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 26, at the First United Methodist Church of Winter Garden, 125 N. Lakeview Ave.

IN OTHER NEWS n The Windermere Town Council approved Frank Krens to serve on the Historic Preservation Board. n The town approved Mike Galura Engineering Consultants with a task order for West Second Avenue roadway drainage improvements in the amount of $46,510. n The council approved the renaming of the tennis courts at the Windermere Recreation Center to the Douglas Bowman Tennis Center. Bowman, who died recently, served the town and the Parks and Recreation Committee for more than 20 years. He also started and built the tennis program.

tation funds for roadway and safety enhancements to town roadways.

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AMY QUESINBERRY

Lowell Teal was a devoted husband to Jackie and father to his daughters, Martha and Robyne.

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OBSERVER | THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2023

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Sean Sirois’ neighbors allow him to put his yard display on their properties, too.

Amy Quesinberry

Christmas display a beautiful sight T

o say Sean Sirois likes Christmas is an understatement. One-third of his year is devoted to setting up his Christmas displays — inside and outside his home. Even the Winter Garden man’s buddies call him Griswold.

Sirois begins preparing for the holiday Oct. 1, when he pulls his Christmas decorations out of storage and starts organizing and placing the hundreds of pieces that make up his wonderland of lights, characters and villages. He comes up with a different blueprint design each year.

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VILLAGE IN MINIATURE

Think of a character, and chances are Sirois has it in his yard. His lawn is a vast collection of plastic blow molds and inflatables — from Stitch and Nemo to Tigger and an assortment of farm animals.

There also are Santas and The Nativity and Grinch and inanimate objects such as Christmas trees, noel

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Inside his porch, Sirois unwraps and sets up 281 ceramic Christmas village pieces in two rooms. One room features a complete village scene with buildings such as an ice cream shop, toy store, tree farm, church and school. Tiny villagers ride in a horse and buggy, shop for candles and baked goods, attend school, and ice skate.

In a second room, Sirois has wood shelves lining several walls, each holding row after row of homes and businesses. About 75% of the structures are lighted; all have the tiniest of painted details.

It takes about a week and a half to set up, he said.

Sirois has been collecting village pieces since he was a child. He helped his mother set up her Christmas village each year — although it never took long organizing her dozen or so buildings. He bought his first village house when he was 23 and slowly has created a collection of storefronts and houses, plus dozens of small people and features such as archways, brick walls and gazebos. He even adds Hot Wheels vehicles to the display.

Sirois said his favorite is a detailed old antique-style storefront with people inside.

“It has a lot more detail put into it, because there’s actually people inside,” Sirois said. “When everything is lit up, you can actually see the detail here.”

His most recent pieces are a Mickey Mouse-inspired village home, given to him by a client, and the house from “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation,” a present from his wife.

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.

LIGHTS DISPLAY

Sean Sirois is kicking off his 301,000-lights display at 6 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 25, at his home at 17508 Lakeshore Drive, Winter Garden.

The lights will remain on for three to four hours nightly, weather permitting.

Sean Sirois spent weeks hanging more than 300,000 holiday lights around his home.

Courtesy photos

All of the Christmas decorations are kept in a storage unit until Oct. 1.

candles, a gingerbread house and wrapped presents.

Sirois said he gets his love of outdoor decorating with lights and figurines from his father, who made it a tradition with Sirois and his brother.

In all, Sirois’ yard and home are draped in about 301,000 lights. The number continues to rise as he buys and adds more strands, which range

from 25 to 1,000 LED lights apiece.

With an electrical display of this magnitude, one would think Sirois’ power bill must be astronomical, but he runs everything in the outdoor display on his generator. Last year’s November and December electric bills increased about $30 each when he ran off his home’s power.

This year’s display is his biggest, he

said, with close to 20 inflatables and a collection of blow molds from the 1960s and ’70s.

“I have walkways where you can go to, you walk out of the patio from the seeing the village and through the outdoor patio, and you can go two different sides and between two houses,” Sirois said.

Although Sirois lives on a third of an acre, he shares the back part of his yard with his rear neighbor. Four of his neighbors are good holiday sports and allow him to put decorations in their yards.

“All I have to do is cook them food from my smoker after putting up with my holiday antics,” Sirois said. “They love it. Everybody in my neighborhood loves it. My landlord loves it, and his family looks forward to seeing the display every year.”

Everything is controlled by a remote, including holiday music that can be turned on and off with the push of a button.

Over the weekend, he added three inflatables: Snoopy, a gnome and a rooster dressed like Santa.

Around the second week of January, he will start dismantling his vast display, packing all the pieces in Rubbermaid containers and returning them to his storage unit until the next year. The tearing-down project takes about two weeks. This is the 12th year Sirois has created his Christmas displays for family and friends.

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OBSERVER | THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2023

5A

New church, private school planned for Horizon West An applicant is proposing to construct a two-story, 60,400-square-foot church/private school with associated infrastructure in Horizon West.

NEWS EDITOR

Orange County’s Planning Division hosted a community meeting Thursday, Nov. 16, to make residents aware of an applicant’s proposal to construct a two-story, 60,400-square-foot church/private school with associated infrastructure in Horizon West.

Applicant John M. Calvert, First Baptist Church Orlando Campus Inc., plans to construct the development on 12.77 acres located north of Schofield Road and west of State Road 429.

The property’s Land Use is Horizon West — Village, and the project is located in an area of the Silverleaf Planned Development that allows for churches, private schools and

other commercial uses.

The building will include a multipurpose room that will serve the school as a gymnasium, as well as a sanctuary that can seat about 800 people. This phase of the school is designed for about 250 children. Other amenities planned include a soccer field and playground.

The project currently is in review by the Technical Review Group and will next head to the Development Review Committee at a date not yet determined.

“We have been a campus of First Baptist Orlando for just over five years, and for the last two plus years, we’ve had the chance to meet right here in Horizon West,” Chris Ogden, Horizon West campus pastor at First Baptist Orlando, said. “We found

Courtesy

This site rendering showcases the 12.77-acre property located north of Schofield Road and west of State Road 429.

that when we came there wasn’t a ton of infrastructure yet, so it took us a little while to make our way in. But for just over two years we’ve met at Horizon High School. With a growing number of people in the community

The town has four major drainage basins: Lake Bessie, Lake Butler, Lake Crescent and Lake Down.

Courtesy

Town of Windermere presents draft stormwater master plan The plan’s goal is to provide a framework for flood mitigation and water quality-improvement projects.

ANNABELLE SIKES NEWS EDITOR

The town of Windermere hosted a virtual public information workshop to discuss the draft stormwater master plan Monday, Nov. 6.

“Our stormwater master plan is a guidance document utilized in the long-range planning of stormwater conveyance, attenuation and treatment projects throughout town,” Public Works Director Tonya ElliottMoore said. “The goal and objective of this stormwater master plan is to provide a framework for flood mitigation and water quality-improvement projects. The plan assists with gaining a full understanding of how stormwa-

ter affects the town and develops a five-year and 20-year plan to address these impacts.”

Elliott-Moore said the town has tasked Michael Galura with updating the stormwater master plan. He has worked with the town for many years on stormwater issues and has an in-depth knowledge of the town’s systems and infrastructure, as well as historical background.

The project is a joint collaboration with the Butler Chain of Lakes Advisory Committee.

Other notable attendees included David Hansen, Orange County Environmental Protection Division; David Hamstra, stormwater engineering consultant with the

Butler Chain of Lakes Advisory Committee; and John Fitzgibbon, the town’s civil engineering consultant.

PROJECT OVERVIEW

Windermere is set within the Butler Chain of Lakes, which is an Outstanding Florida Water, and is bound on both sides by the Butler Chain of Lakes; Lake Butler on the west, Lake Down on the east and Lake Bessie to the southeast.

The town is subdivided into four drainage basins: Lake Bessie, Lake Butler, Lake Crescent and Lake Down.

Galura said the main challenge the town faces is stormwater management, particularly with the dirt road sections of the town and other areas where development has occurred, as well as trying to maintain the quality of the Butler Chain of Lakes.

“We’re doing this master plan in

coming out — a lot of young families, but really good people across the spectrum — we pretty much from day one decided that we were going to be a church that was going to be for our community. … Not just that we’re a

place (where) people can come on a Sunday to have a church service, but really an organization that meets the needs in the community. … We just want to be a place where people can find hope.”

close coordination with the state and federal agencies on providing protection for the lakes through various means, including permitting, through the town’s permit coordinator and also for the town’s capital improvements,” he said.

“One of the things that we’ve done is developed a stormwater and drainage infrastructure inventory to identify and maintain the town’s facilities. At some point in time, we did not know exactly where everything was, but we did a thorough search of where all the town’s drainage structures are, pipes are, swales and stormwater ponds. This gives the town a road map to address the deficiencies, to address flooding, water quality and maintenance-related activities, which are the three primary components in determining the ranking for the capital improvement program.”

The team also will develop a fiscal plan to implement stormwater and drainage improvements.

Galura said goals and objectives for the project include gaining a full understanding of how stormwater affects the town; utilizing data and technology to develop a roadmap on how the town can manage stormwater runoff; developing a stormwater management and drainage infrastructure inventory and utilizing a Geographical Information Systembased database to manage and maintain the inventory; being in full compliance with the town’s NPDES Phase II MS4 program, developing a short-term and long term Capital Improvement Program; developing a priority list on the implementation of the CIP; and assessing the fiscal requirements to implement the CIP. The team had to identify known structures, pipes and other drainage features within the town limits. This was completed utilizing various resources, such as applying GIS technology to inventory stormwater management and drainage infrastructure.

Galura said GIS provides the town staff with instant access to drainage features and all the information associated with the feature. It allows the town to collect data, such as debris removal, and to create a database for reporting for the Town NPDES MS4

Phase II biennial permit renewal.

The data collection is to meet state and federal agency requirements for inventorying stormwater management and drainage infrastructure.

The GIS allows the town to quickly update its inventory for newly completed improvements, provides staff with a mapping feature that best illustrates the location of the town’s stormwater management and drainage infrastructure, and allows realtime entry of data on tablets by staff using ArcGIS Online Services.

Regarding stormwater management and drainage infrastructure, Galura said the team has identified and mapped all known town-maintained stormwater management and drainage features, known planned development stormwater management and drainage features, and known Orange County stormwater management and drainage features within the town limits.

CAPITAL AND COSTS

Galura said the team has identified three distinct categories by which to categorize the CIP: flood protection, water quality and maintenancerelated structural improvements.

The cost that could be incurred in the town’s CIP program totals $24,506,163 with 23 different projects.

The top four projects are: West Second Avenue Roadway and Drainage Improvements, $2,624,780; Seventh Avenue and Butler Street Drainage Improvements, $693,974; Eighth Avenue and Bessie Street/East Boulevard Drainage Improvements; and 3rd Avenue and Magnolia Street Drainage Improvements, $720,781.

“These were selected as our firstpriority projects, because these are projects that are already in the Hurricane Irma process,” Galura said. “We have actually received grant funding for the West Second Avenue roadway and drainage improvements, and that project is out to bid. The other three projects … we’re waiting from FEMA and DEM on the phase two funding.”

The draft plan is anticipated to next be presented to the Town Council at the January 2024 meeting.

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ANNABELLE SIKES

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OBSERVER | THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2023

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Hope Church, in Winter Garden, celebrated its annual Hero Day Sunday, Nov. 5, and Pastor Wes Beacham and the church congregation honored two local lawenforcement personnel who have provided service to their community.

Windermere Police Chief Dave Ogden was recognized for his longevity and faithful service.

Orange County Sheriff’s Office SWAT deputy Michael Milmerstadt was honored posthumously; his wife, Melanie, and children attended the church service to accept a plaque on his behalf. A law-enforcement officer who attends Hope Church recommended both men receive the honor.

The church holds the patriotic program and outdoor festivities each year with one service, and all first responders and military personnel are invited to participate. In addition to the ceremony, the program includes a display of K-9, SWAT and mounted patrol vehicles. The Winter Garden Fire Rescue Department and the Ocoee and Windermere police departments were represented as well.

Ogden has been the chief of police for the town of Windermere for 10 years. When he was hired in 2013, his objective was to improve the image of the police agency. He has more than 36 years of law-enforcement experience, including more than 27 with the OCSO.

He remains active with the department and in the Windermere community.

Milmerstadt was a seven-year employee of the OCSO, working on the Community Oriented Policing Squad and as a member of the agency’s SWAT team. He was offduty training at a gym March 20 when he suffered a serious head injury; he died March 23, but his organs were used to save others.

The 31-year-old Groveland resident was a 2009 graduate of Ocoee High School and was dedicated to mixed martial arts.

“Mike’s big thing was training,” Beacham said. “He believed that training would help you go further and do better. He was always (getting) better, so he wanted to make sure other people had the opportunity to train in jiu jitsu too.”

A scholarship was set up to honor his passion, and it will allow one lawenforcement officer, male or female, to go through jiu-jitsu training.

The scholarship fund started with $500 and quickly jumped to $10,000 with the assistance of the SWAT Roundup. SWAT teams from around the globe participate in the annual event. “(They were told)’We’re going to give you guys the opportunity to chip in,’ and SWAT guys from around the world chipped in to make it grow even greater,” Beacham said.

Milmerstadt’s wife, children, mother and brother attended the program. Beacham presented her a plaque to commemorate her husband.

(with waivers) as of 10/30/23

%

Minimum deposit $1,000

APY

Competitive yields on money market funds and CDs available through Schwab could help you meet your financial goals, and that’s always a good thing.

Visit schwab.com/windermere or schwab.com/clermont.

Charles Schwab Windermere 4848 S. Apopka Vineland Rd, Suite 204 Orlando, FL 32819 407-909-0485

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Windermere police chief Dave Ogden and Pastor Wes Beacham spoke during the award ceremony on Hero Day.

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Past performance is no guarantee of future results. For the most recent 7-day yields, see schwab.com.

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NOVEMBER 23, 2023 DECEMBER 28, 2023

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OrangeObserver.com

OBSERVER | THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2023

7A

ESPRESSO YOURSELF: Double O’s opens in Ocoee NEWS EDITOR

At only 22 years old, Colby O’Brien is opening his third quick-service, drive-thru coffee company location in Orlando.

Double O’s Coffee in Ocoee opened its doors to serve the community Monday, Nov. 20.

Although only in soft opening, the coffee shop is providing customers with the beverages they love — at the speed they need.

“Ever since I was 5 years old, my grandparents served me coffee, and then I fell in love with it at a young age,” O’Brien said. “I was that weird kid (who) ordered it at restaurants, and people would look at my parents wondering if it was allowed. … Being younger, I wanted to pick a business that I could see myself being in for the rest of my life. I see myself being involved with the company for at least 20 years and growing it as much as I can, in as many ways as possible.

“Creating a culture was essential to me,” O’Brien said. “I’m big on the power culture brings to the business itself. I don’t like the corporate-style environments; I think it’s unhealthy.

So, for me, with culture, it’s about honestly having fun and everyone being involved and having a say in what’s going on. For every hour spent working, every 10 or 20 minutes is spent laughing or talking about something else going on in life for us. Most of our baristas are young females who are still early on in their life and their career. With that, I know it’s kind of shaping them into what their career or their life is going to be.

So, we want to have a strong impact on them and we want them to grow;

THE PERFECT CUP OF JOE

Originally from Indiana, O’Brien grew up in Windermere and now lives in Ocoee.

O’Brien attends Rollins College, where he studies business management, in addition to his 70 plus-hour work weeks.

Being younger, O’Brien relies on his business partner to provide him critical experience: his father, Kurt O’Brien.

“My experience comes mainly with my father, and then also flipping, doing some acquisition of homes before this and really just getting into real estate,” O’Brien said. “My experience comes from my dad’s teaching. He told me when I was in my sophomore year of high school that I needed to start thinking more about my future and what I wanted to do. I started doing research and looking at different portfolios to invest in, but nothing really caught my eye, other than drive-thru coffee. Since then, it’s always just been my niche that I’m focusing on.”

O’Brien said his father is involved in the business but not in the day-to-day operations or the decision-making.

“We got together kind of early on in this process and understood that it could be a great business to grow and that it could be a family business that we could scale,” he said. “For him, it’s more that he wanted to be the silent partner and the investor. … I’m just doing all the work and pretty much making sure that it’s kind of my vision of what it’s supposed to look like, what drinks we serve, how the branding looks, what the culture is like. Pretty much all those decisions and then also the growth strategy he’s relying on me to provide. … He’s been a good mentor through it all.”

The Ocoee location is the third

IF YOU GO DOUBLE O’S COFFEE 1517 Maguire Road, Ocoee WEBSITE: doubleoscoffee.com FACEBOOK: facebook.com/doubleoscoffee INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/doubleoscoffee

Courtesy photos

Colby O’Brien fell in love with coffee when he was only 5 years old.

embraces its values, while also giving back to individuals through coffee and service.

O’Brien believes in providing opportunities to everyone. Double O’s hires based on the company’s commitment to servicing its customers and on its core values: innovation, trust, passion and honor.

O’Brien said Phil Eversmann, vice president of operations, and Kara Hever, store manager, have been an integral part of the process and are capitalizing on those values.

“Innovation is huge, because I think that’s the direction that everything is going in,” he said. “If you’re not coming up with new ideas, you’re just going to get lost. You have to always pivot. … Trust is something I

O’Brien has opened in less than a year. The first location opened Dec. 28, 2022, in Apopka, followed by a Downtown Orlando location.

The menu includes items such as hot and iced coffees, hot and iced teas, chillers, blended beverages, and shakes.

The Double O’s logo features the Frigate bird, which O’Brien said serves as a good luck charm. As a fisherman, when you see the bird circling the boat, it means a fish will be on the line in no time.

A COMMUNITY HUB

O’Brien said the company’s mission is to empower the community and drive human opportunity.

Through the brand, Double O’s

very strongly believe in; I don’t believe in micromanaging. … If you go through the training and you’re a part of us and part of the team, your business is your business, and as long as you do your job, we’re happy. As far as passion, I could easily tell you I didn’t think I would be spending this much time in this business. I mean, I am exhausted and beaten to a pulp, honestly. But everyone I know on my team … would do anything they can to make the business successful. I know we’re also proud of the work that we do. We’re small, but I think we have a lot of honor and dignity in what we’re doing.”

O’Brien chose Ocoee to open a location because the area has a great sense of community and is home to the company’s target market. Because Ocoee is growing so quickly, O’Brien hopes the Ocoee location serves as the company’s main hub.

Double O’s Coffee plans to host a grand opening event Dec. 4.

HOLIDAY SHOPPING KICKOFF OUTDOOR DINING LIVE MUSIC (12 – 8 PM)

FESTIVE FUN

Saturday, November 25

ALL DAY!

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When you shop small, you HELP BIG because a greater portion of your money spent stays local!

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ANNABELLE SIKES

the same exact wish we have for the company.”

414261-1

Colby O’Brien, 22, is bringing a quick-service, drive-thru coffee company to the city.

OrangeObserver.com

OBSERVER | THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2023

REAL ESTATE

8A

realtor.com

The home at 2006 Bellamere Court, Windermere, sold Oct. 23, for $2,900,000. This home features a summer kitchen with Marine-grade cabinetry, sink and grill. The sellers were represented by Jennifer Olmeda, WRA Real Estate Solutions LLC.

Bella Vita Estates home sells for $2.9M A

home in the Bella Vita Estates community

in Windermere topped all West Orange-area residential real-estate transactions from Oct. 23 to 29.

The home at 2006 Bellamere Court, Windermere, sold Oct. 23, for $2,900,000. Built in 2022, it has five bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths and 5,043 square feet of living area. Days on market: Six. The sellers were represented by Jennifer Olmeda, WRA Real Estate Solutions LLC.

realtor.com

The home at 10355 Emerald Woods Ave., Orlando, sold Oct. 27, for $860,000. It was the largest transaction in Dr. Phillips from Oct. 16 to 22. The sellers were represented by Kitty Mark, Coldwell Banker Realty.

HAMILTON GARDENS

These are the highest-

Orange.

The home at 16421 Silversaw Palm Drive, Winter Garden, sold Oct. 24, for $595,400. Built in 2019, it has three bedrooms, twoand-one-half baths and 2,128 square feet of living area. Days on market: 29.

DR. PHILLIPS

INDEPENDENCE/ SIGNATURE LAKES

selling homes in each community in West

The home at 6716 Point Hancock Drive, Winter Garden, sold Oct. 27, for $1,070,000. Built in 2011, it has six bedrooms, four baths and 4,511 square feet of living area.

Days on market: Five.

BAY LAKES

The home at 8967 Esguerra Lane, Orlando, sold Oct. 26, for $490,000. Built in 1983, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,715 square feet of living area.

Days on market: 18.

The townhouse at 5689 New Independence Parkway, Winter Garden, sold Oct. 24, for $430,000. Built in 2010, it has four bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 1,999 square feet of living area. Days on market: Eight.

EMERALD FOREST

The home at 10355 Emerald Woods Ave., Orlando, sold Oct. 27, for $860,000. Built in 1996, it has five bedrooms, four baths and 3,301 square feet of living area.

Days on market: Three.

SAND LAKE SOUND

The townhouse at 5832 Bimini Twist Loop, Orlando, sold Oct. 26, for $637,000. Built in 2020, it has four bedrooms, twoand-one-half baths and 1,804 square feet of living area. Days on market: 34.

SAND LAKE HILLS

The home at 6246 Morning Mist Lane, Orlando, sold Oct. 23, for $475,000. Built in 1986, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 1,928 square feet of living area. Days on market: 20.

Devore Design

The home at 2828 Eagles Landing Trail, Ocoee, sold Oct. 26, for $715,000. It was the largest transaction in Ocoee from Oct. 23 to 29. The sellers were represented by The Orlando Real with The Pozek Group.

The home at 6792 Tamarind Circle, Orlando, sold Oct. 27, for $477,000. Built in 1978, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,256 square feet of living area. Days on market: Four.

SAND LAKE PRIVATE RESIDENCES

The condo at 8849 Latrec Ave., No. 309, Orlando, sold Oct. 23, for $152,650. Built in 1994, it has one bedroom, one bath and 671 square feet of living area. Days on market: Two.

TANGELO PARK

The home at 7303 Perugia Ave., Orlando, sold Oct. 27, for $290,000. Built in 1959, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 1,305 square feet of living area.

Days on market: Six. VIZCAYA HEIGHTS

The condo at 8743 The Esplanade, No. 23, Orlando, sold Oct. 24, for $485,000. Built in 2006, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,824 square feet of living area.

Days on market: Five.

WINGROVE ESTATES

The home at 4831 Wingrove Blvd., Orlando, sold Oct. 27, for $759,000. Built in 1993, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,576 square feet of living area. Days on market: One.

HORIZON WEST DEL WEBB OASIS

The home at 15162 Canopy Cover Drive, Winter Garden, sold Oct. 25, for $615,190. Built in 2023, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 2,049 square feet of living area.

LAKES OF WINDERMERE

The home at 12753 Hawkstone Drive, Windermere, sold Oct. 24, for $1,650,000. Built in 2009, it has four bedrooms, four baths and 3,692 square feet of living area.

Days on market: 21.

PANTHER VIEW

The home at 9044 Pinch Shot Drive, Winter Garden, sold Oct. 24, for $705,000. Built in 2018, it has four bedrooms, twoand-one-half baths and 2,683 square feet of living area. Days on market: Four.

OrangeObserver.com

OBSERVER | THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2023

WINTER GARDEN

PROVIDENCE

The home at 13449 Zori Lane, Windermere, sold Oct. 28, for $634,900. Built in 2004, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,963 square feet of living area. Days on market: 67.

BAY STREET PARK

The home at 1095 Maxey Drive, Winter Garden, sold Oct. 24, for $297,000. Built in 1968, it has four bedrooms, one-and-one-half baths and 1,874 square feet of living area.

Days on market: Eight.

RAVENNA

The home at 14200 Larkspur Lake Drive, Winter Garden, sold Oct. 26, for $2,550,000. Built in 2023, it has seven bedrooms, six baths, two halfbaths and 6,176 square feet of living area. Days on market: Five.

BLACK LAKE PARK

The home at 514 First Cape Coral Drive, Winter Garden, sold Oct. 26, for $530,000. Built in 2005, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,360 square feet of living area. Days on market: 35.

SILVERLEAF RESERVE BUNGALOWS

COVINGTON CHASE

The home at 4887 Lacewing Drive, Winter Garden, sold Oct. 24, for $513,240. Built in 2023, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,678 square feet of living area.

Days on market: 123.

The home at 493 Copperdale Ave., Winter Garden, sold Oct. 27, for $505,000. Built in 2013, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,696 square feet of living area. Days on market: Five.

STOREY GROVE

The home at 16453 Parable Way, Winter Garden, sold Oct. 24, for $584,905. Built in 2023, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 2,502 square feet of living area. Days on market: Six. The townhouse at 16035 Words Drive, Winter Garden, sold Oct. 23, for $418,605. Built in 2023, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,755 square feet of living area. Days on market: 19.

SUMMERLAKE

The home at 15163 Pigeon Plum Lane, Winter Garden, sold Oct. 27, for $610,000. Built in 2016, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,708 square feet of living area. Days on market: 11.

SUMMERPORT

The townhouse at 14234 Sonco Ave., Windermere, sold Oct. 23, for $385,000. Built in 2004, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,164 square feet of living area. Days on market: Five.

WATERLEIGH

The home at 18417 Oliver Twist Way, Winter Garden, sold Oct. 23, for $729,901. Built in 2023, it has five bedrooms, four baths and 2,866 square feet of living area. Days on market: 18.

The townhouse at 17073 Water Spring Blvd., Winter Garden, sold Oct. 25, for $425,740. Built in 2023, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 1,567 square feet of living area. Days on market: Three.

The townhouse at 17081 Water Spring Blvd., Winter Garden, sold Oct. 23, for $425,740. Built in 2023, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 1,567 square feet of living area. Days on market: 12.

WATERMARK

The townhouse at 9670 Amber Chestnut Way, Winter Garden, sold Oct. 26, for $450,000. Built in 2019, it has three bedrooms, two-andone-half baths and 2,000 square feet of living area. Days on market: 46.

WESTSIDE VILLAGE

The home at 11019 Bagley Alley, Windermere, sold Oct. 27, for $485,000. Built in 2018, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,222 square feet of living area.

Days on market: 114.

9A

COVINGTON PARK realtor.com

The home at 1255 E. Fullers Cross Road, Winter Garden, sold Oct. 23, for $1,100,000. It was the largest transaction in Winter Garden from Oct. 16 to 22, 2023. The sellers were represented by Chelsea Seip, Suzi Karr Realty.

WICKHAM PARK

The townhouse at 12991 Calderdale Ave., Windermere, sold Oct. 26, for $395,000. Built in 2008, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,520 square feet of living area.

Days on market: 64.

The townhouse at 12981 Borland St., Windermere, sold Oct. 27, for $370,000. Built in 2007, it has two bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,308 square feet of living area.

Days on market: Seven.

WINDERMERE LANDING

The home at 6126 Roseate Spoonbill Drive, Windermere, sold Oct. 27, for $870,000. Built in 2011, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 3,068 square feet of living area. Days on market: One. WINDING BAY

The home at 15080 Lebeau Loop, Winter Garden, sold Oct. 23, for $519,000. Built in 2021, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,945 square feet of living area.

Days on market: Five.

OAKLAND

HULL ISLAND

The home at 655 Hull Island Drive, Oakland, sold Oct. 26, for $580,000. Built in 2003, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,233 square feet of living area.

Days on market: Nine.

LAKE MEADOW LANDING

The townhouse at 1885 Terrapin Road, Ocoee, sold Oct. 24, for $459,000. Built in 2023, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,104 square feet of living area. Days on market: 69.

MCCORMICK RESERVE

The home at 3472 Gretchen Drive, Ocoee, sold Oct. 26, for $535,000.

Built in 2019, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,777 square feet of living area. Days on market: Three.

MCCORMICK WOODS

The home at 3524 McCormick Woods Drive, Ocoee, sold Oct. 25, for $625,000. Built in 2013, it has five bedrooms, five baths and 3,877 square feet of living area. Days on market: Five.

PRAIRIE LAKE RESERVE

The townhouse at 1938 Switch Grass Circle, Ocoee, sold Oct. 27, for $339,990. Built in 2008, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,796 square feet of living area. Days on market: 37.

RESERVE

The home at 1952 Edinborough Place, Ocoee, sold Oct. 27, for $585,000. Built in 1998, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,635 square feet of living area.

Days on market: 10.

SNAPSHOT

Total Sales: 62 High Sale Price: $2.9 million Low Sale Price: $152,650

WINDERMERE

BELLA VITA ESTATES

The home at 2006 Bellamere Court, Windermere, sold Oct. 23, for $2,900,000. Built in 2022, it has five bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths and 5,043 square feet of living area. Days on market: Six. BELMERE

The home at 1615 Whitney Isles Drive, Windermere, sold Oct. 23, for $757,500. Built in 2005, it has four bedrooms, four baths and 2,805 square feet of living area.

Days on market: 77.

BELMERE VILLAGE

The home at 11413 Via Andiamo, Windermere, sold Oct. 27, for $790,000. Built in 2004, it has five bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths and 3,036 square feet of living area. Days on market: Five.

DOWN EAST ESTATES

The home at 9037 Ron Den Lane, Windermere, sold Oct. 24, for $685,000. Built in 1977, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 2,128 square feet of living area. Days on market: 25.

The home at 849 Meadow Glade Drive, Winter Garden, sold Oct. 25, for $580,000. Built in 2007, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 1,844 square feet of living area. Days on market: 14.

DOWNTOWN WINTER GARDEN

The home at 1255 E. Fullers Cross Road, Winter Garden, sold Oct. 23, for $1,100,000. Built in 1995, it has five bedrooms, three baths and 2,850 square feet of living area.

Days on market: Three.

ESTATES AT LAKEVIEW PRESERVE

The home at 3195 Sailing Pier Ave., Winter Garden, Lake County, sold Oct. 23, for $900,000. Built in 2023, it has four bedrooms, four baths and 4,272 square feet of living area.

Days on market: 159.

OAKLAND PARK

The home at 1021 Huntspoint St., Winter Garden, sold Oct. 25, for $740,000. Built in 2018, it has three bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 2,373 square feet of living area. Days on market: 53.

WATERSIDE AT JOHNS LAKE

The home at 1371 Roxy Lane, Winter Garden, sold Oct. 25, for $520,000.

Built in 2023, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,023 square feet of living area. Days on market: 51.

WESTFIELD LAKES

The home at 12650 Westfield Lakes Drive, Winter Garden, sold Oct. 23, for $672,000. Built in 2004, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,617 square feet of living area. Days on market: Three.

OAKLAND TRAILS

SILVER BEND

MARINA BAY ESTATES

The home at 11036 Schooner Way, Windermere, sold Oct. 27, for $1,600,000. Built in 1986, it has four bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 3,391 square feet of living area. Days on market: 138.

The home at 154 Blue Stone Circle, Winter Garden, sold Oct. 27, for $645,000. Built in 1997, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 2,529 square feet of living area. Days on market: Five.

OCOEE

The home at 106 Bexley Blvd., Ocoee, sold Oct. 25, for $382,000.

Built in 1996, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,626 square feet of living area. Days on market: Seven.

TOWN OF WINDERMERE

WESTLAKE MANOR

The home at 2189 Standing Rock Circle, Oakland, sold Oct. 25, for $474,900. Built in 2020, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,078 square feet of living area.

Days on market: 40.

BROOKSTONE

The home at 1763 Slough Court, Ocoee, sold Oct. 23, for $627,000.

Built in 2000, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,218 square feet of living area. Days on market: Three.

EAGLES LANDING

The home at 2828 Eagles Landing Trail, Ocoee, sold Oct. 26, for $715,000. Built in 2014, it has five bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 3,680 square feet of living area. Days on market: 54.

The home at 2005 Cassingham Circle, Ocoee, sold Oct. 27, for $390,000. Built in 1994, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,758 square feet of living area. Days on market: 46.

VILLAGES AT WESMERE

The home at 337 Partridge Pea Lane, Ocoee, sold Oct. 25, for $520,000. Built in 2014, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,433 square feet of living area.

Days on market: 74.

The home at 107 E. Second Ave., Windermere, sold Oct. 24, for $1 million. Built in 2020, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,684 square feet of living area. Days on market: 138.

The home at 370 N. Lakeview Ave., Winter Garden, sold Oct. 25, for $645,000. Built in 1973, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,628 square feet of living area. Days on market: Eight.

WINDERMERE DOWNS

The home at 9712 Pleasance Circle, Windermere, sold Oct. 24, for $995,000. Built in 1976, it has five bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 4,614 square feet of living area. Days on market: 14.

Courtesy photo

The home at 14200 Larkspur Lake Drive, Winter Garden, sold Oct. 26, for $2,550,000. It was the largest transaction in Horizon West from Oct. 16 to 22. The sellers were represented by Simon Samaan, The Simon Samaan Group.

OrangeObserver.com

OBSERVER | THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2023

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10A

NOVEMBER 23, 2023

HIGH

SPORTS

1

5

Dr. Phillips Highs’ heartbreaking 28-21 overtime loss at Plant High marks the official end to football season in West Orange and Southwest Orange County, with no more teams left in the FHSAA playoffs. This season brought so much excitement, incredible rivalry games, outstanding showings from some of the state’s best players, and of course, another example of why this area has the best fans in the state.

In her senior season, Windermere High’s Addison Reese added two more state championships to her résumé. Page 2B.

BEST

IN THE

Olympia’s Romero Ware was key to the Titans’ offensive success in 2023.

WEST

Nicole Grantz

Horizon’s two-way star Bo Kenney finished his high school career as a Hawks legend.

2

The First Academy golfer Mi Li won her second consecutive FHSAA Class 1A individual state championship after shooting 136 over 36 holes. The junior led the Royals to a second-place finish in the overall team competition. The Royals fell to Florida Atlantic University High by seven strokes. Windermere Prep’s Ava Zhang finished fourth, leading the girls team to a fourth-place finish. Dr. Phillips boys finished third in the Class 3A championship, with senior Brandon Lohr leading the way with a sixthplace finish.

3

Horizon High cross country’s Jacob Finch broke the school record at the FHSAA Class 3A state championship meet with a time of 16:46.80, beating his previous personal best time of 17:25.30. Finch led the Hawks boys team to a 16th-place finish, the best in the young program’s history.

4

While Horizon cross country was the highestfinishing boys team from our area in 16th, Olympia High was the best-placed girls team in the area with a 17th-place finish in the Class 4A meet.

Emily Knopfle led all Titans runners with a time of 19:31.2, while Foundation Academy’s Andrew Nyland (16:20.80) and West Orange High’s Jaiden McKee (16:08.40) had the best times of any area runner.

Olympia and Dr. Phillips featured the most players on the 2023 All-Orange Observer football teams.

The Observer celebrates the players who shined the brightest in the 2023 football season.

SAM ALBUQUERQUE SPORTS EDITOR

Editor’s note: Statistics were obtained either through coaches or online.

W

5

SAM SESSION

With the winter sports season off and rolling, two teams in both boys and girls soccer have gotten off to a hot start. Olympia (2-0) and Windermere High (3-0) boys have started the early season by winning each of their games.

The Wolverines in particular have been impressive with a +17 goal difference in just three games. On the girls side, it’s also Olympia (2-0) and Windermere (3-1) that have gotten the early jump this season.

Ocoee’s Michael McClenton was a defense’s worst nightmare on his way to breaking three school records.

ith Dr. Phillips High falling to Plant High Friday, Nov. 17, the 2023 football season is now over for West Orange- and Southwest Orange-area teams.

However, although none of the local teams will be hoisting a state championship trophy this year, the area proved again to be one of the most talent-rich pockets in not only the state but also the entire country.

With multiple running backs SEE MEET PAGE 2B

Courtesy and file photos

UCF commit Jashad Presley, left, and USF commit Maliki Wright combined to lead the Dr. Phillips’ secondary to a dominant 2023 season.

Dr. Phillips football may have lost, but it wasn’t because it was the lesser team

SAM ALBUQUERQUE SPORTS EDITOR

There’s an old boxing saying that goes: Styles make fights. Essentially, it means that what makes a match entertaining or determines a match’s outcome isn’t necessarily the quality of the boxers but the style in which they box.

You can say the same thing about football.

To some, watching the ArmyNavy game each year, where both teams traditionally go for a runoption-based offense and play tough defense, isn’t the most entertaining style of football.

The same can be said for the more modern spread-style offenses that focus on chucking the ball from one side of the field to the other, scoring as many points as possible without even considering the idea of playing defense. Remember that 74-72 Texas A&M seven-overtime win over LSU in 2018?

Regardless of where you land on the football-style spectrum, most can agree the best games have a little of everything and a team’s style can often have a huge factor in the outcome of a game.

That’s what happened in a 28-21 overtime Dr. Phillips High (7-5) loss to Plant High (10-2) in the regional semi-finals of the FHSAA Class 4M state championships.

Dr. Phillips has one of the best and most talented defenses in the state.

The Panthers have rangy and quick defensive linemen that put pressure on the quarterback.

They have sideline-to-sideline linebackers like Alfred Thomas, who has offers from Washington, USF, Liberty and others, who can

make open-field tackles. And they have one of the best defensive back groups — with UCF commit Jashad Presley and USF commit Maliki Wright — in the area.

What’s the one thing they don’t have? A 315-pound run-stuffer that makes a living plugging up gaps in the interior.

The opposition knew that and decided to build a game plan to go after it.

Plant is a team that has thrown the ball more than it has run it — 317 passes vs. 201 runs — this season.

And it has done it effectively — accumulating 2,341 yards and 32 touchdowns through the air (compared to 1,290 yards and 23 TDs on the ground).

But against Dr. Phillips, it leaned heavily on 31-personnel formations (three backs and one tight end) SEE PANTHERS PAGE 3B

2B

OrangeObserver.com

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

OBSERVER | THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2023

Meet our all-Observer team

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

Addison Reese

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1B

rushing for 1,000-plus yards, linebackers recording 100-plus tackles and quarterbacks finding their lethal weapons on the outside against some of the best defensive back groups you’ll see anywhere, this season had a little of everything.

To recognize the immense talent this area has to offer, we’ve selected — with the help of the area’s coaches sending in nominations — the best of the best to be a part of the 2023 All-Orange Observer Football Teams, as well as the Orange Observer Player of the Year.

Addison Reese, a University of Florida signee, is no stranger to winning races for Windermere. She’s probably the young school’s best-ever girls swimmer. And on Nov. 10 at the FHSAA Class 4A swimming and diving state championship meet, she added even more hardware to her already-impressive resume. Reese won two more state championships in the 200-yard freestyle relay and the 100-yard butterfly.

How does it feel to be named Athlete of the Week?

It is such an honor, because there are so many incredible athletes in the area that I look up to.

What do you like the most about swimming?

I love that swimming is both a team and individual sport.

There’s nothing better than being on a relay with your friends and teammates and cheering each other on, but also being able to set individual goals for yourself and work toward them.

What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned from swimming competitively?

I learned time management and how to set goals. It’s pretty difficult going from 5 a.m. practice straight to school and then back to practice again in the afternoon and still making time for homework and hanging out with friends. It would be hard to leave a sleepover with my friends at 4 a.m. but I knew if I wanted to achieve certain goals and not miss out on social things either, I had to do things like that. So, swimming definitely taught me time management.

What is your favorite nonswimming hobby?

I love to wake-surf.

What is your favorite subject in school?

I love economics. I’m learning about the economy and how to save and make money, which I definitely need to learn how to do.

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

Food, water, first-aid kit.

THE BASICS Age: 18 Sport: Swimming Grade: Senior School: Windermere

ORANGE OBSERVER PLAYER OF THE YEAR MICHAEL MCCLENTON, SOPHOMORE, OCOEE

What is your favorite movie?

My favorite movie is “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation.”

To put this as clear as possible, McClenton is a destructive force on the Knights’ defensive front.

He is the physical embodiment of the concept, “See ball, get ball.”

The 202 total tackles, 45 of which were for a loss, 31 sacks —all school records — three forced fumbles and one blocked field goal show exactly why the sophomore with NFL bloodlines is the 2023 player of the year.

His combination of size, 6-foot-1 and 225 pounds, speed, power and relentless pursuit are the reasons he’s able to be a versatile weapon across the Ocoee defensive front.

Although listed as a linebacker, McClenton can be seen lining up as an edge rusher, interior defensive lineman and a traditional off-ball mike.

The kid is special, and soon enough, the offers will come pouring in.

If you could have dinner with one person — dead or alive — who would it be?

I would have to say Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson.

Looking back, what piece of advice would you give your 10-year-old self?

To keep doing what you’re doing. I had the best childhood and did so many fun things. I’d also say to never take yourself too seriously.

If you could ask your future self a question, what would it be?

How can I make an impact on the world?

Who is your favorite superhero?

Wonder Woman, because she’s fearless.

ALL-OBSERVER FIRST TEAM OFFENSE QUARTERBACK JUAN GAINOUS, SENIOR, OLYMPIA

Who is your favorite super villain?

Harley Quinn, because she’s fierce.

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

I wish I could time travel, so I could go back in time and see the future.

The 6-foot-3, 215-pound quarterback led Olympia to an 8-3 record and the Class 4M, District 5 title by totaling 2,202 yards through the air and the ground, scoring 28 total touchdowns with just five interceptions.

Where in the world would you like to visit?

Greece and Italy.

RUNNING BACKS J.T. BRONAUGH, SENIOR, FOUNDATION

Bronaugh’s combination of track speed and solid power has helped him finish his high school career with an incredible display on both sides of the ball. As a running back, he gained 1,950 total yards on 110 touches with 25 total touchdowns.

While on defense, he recorded 43 tackles, two for a loss, caught two interceptions and forced two fumbles. It’s no wonder he’s garnering the attention of Division I programs across the country.

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

A shark, because they are fast.

Does pineapple belong on pizza?

Absolutely not.

— SAM ALBUQUERQUE

ROMELO WARE, SENIOR, OLYMPIA

Next to Gainous in the Titans’ backfield was its workhorse back, who gave the Olympia offense the balance it needed to have such a successful season. Ware’s 1,562 total yards and 21 total touchdowns on 180 touches show exactly why he has been able to pick up loads of D-I offers.

WIDE RECEIVERS JOSHUA EVANS, SENIOR, OLYMPIA

Family. A three-star recruit with offers the likes of Indiana, UConn Friends. from and Liberty, Evans led Olympia with 605 receiving yards on 32 Community. catches with six receiving touch-

downs. He also got it done with his arm, throwing for two TDs and 79 yards on 2-of-5 passing.

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OFFENSIVE LINEMEN KAMAL HARRIS, SENIOR, OLYMPIA

At 6-foot-3 and 315 pounds, Harris was a certified people-mover on the interior of the Titans’ offensive line — especially when he got to the second level of the defense as Ware’s lead blocker.

ONIX IRIZARRY, SENIOR, OCOEE

With a blocking grade of 83% this season to go along with 21 pancakes and only two sacks allowed, it’s no wonder Irizarry is on this list. But what’s most impressive about the interior lineman’s game is the edge he plays with and how aggressively he finished his blocks.

USAIN MITCHELL, SENIOR, LAKE BUENA VISTA

What stands out about Mitchell’s game is his athletic ability. He’s quick off the line and has the ability to use his size to obliterate defenders in the run game.

PARKER MOSS, JUNIOR, OLYMPIA

At 6-foot-3 and 285 pounds, Moss is a dominant tackle for one of the best offenses in the area. The AllMetro selection was key in both the Titans’ running and passing game.

NOAH WRIGHT, SENIOR, WINDERMERE

With zero sacks allowed and 56 pancakes this season, Wright showed just how dominant he was on the bookend of the Wolverines line. With his production along with a 6-foot-4, 275-pound frame, Wright looks like a college-level lineman.

DEFENSE DEFENSIVE LINEMEN ZACK BOUJIDI, SENIOR, LAKE BUENA VISTA

Boujidi was a menace to opposing offensive linemen this season for the Vipers, his 42 tackles (13 for a loss), five sacks and six fumble recoveries all show just how disruptive he was.

TYLER CROSS, SENIOR, OLYMPIA

Cross, a two-way star for the Titans with plenty of D-I offers, finished his high-school career with 29 tackles (nine for a loss) and six sacks. On offense, he caught five passes for 73 yards with two touchdowns and was a solid blocker from the tight end spot.

DAMIEN JACKSON, SENIOR, DR. PHILLIPS

The hybrid outside linebacker/ defensive end was a ball magnet this season for the Panthers. He caught three interceptions and picked up fumbles left and right. He also recorded 40 tackles (six for a loss) and four sacks.

LINEBACKERS AMEER ELGHAZALY, JUNIOR, WEST ORANGE

Elghazaly led West Orange in tackles with 93 (eight for a loss) in his first season as a Warrior. The 6-foot, 195-pound transfer also caught one interception and had a recovered fumble.

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Kenney was the heart and soul of the Hawks team this season on both sides of the ball. He was a heatseeking missile at linebacker and lead blocker at fullback on offense.

He made 103 tackles (20 for a loss), had five sacks, forced three fumbles and had two fumble recoveries.

JERARD SMITH JR., SENIOR, DR. PHILLIPS

With 123 total tackles (six for a loss) and two sacks, Smith showed how vital he was to the middle of this dynamic Panthers defense.

ROWAN WASSILYN, SENIOR, WINDERMERE

Wassilyn’s an instinctive linebacker who constantly found himself in the opposition backfield. He finished his senior season with 64 tackles (19 for a loss), two sacks, three interceptions, two forced fumbles and one fumble recovery.

DEFENSIVE BACKS ARTAVIUS RILEY JR., SOPHOMORE, WEST ORANGE

A hybrid safety/linebacker, it didn’t really matter where Riley played, because he found the ball at the end of the play. He made 62 tackles (17 for a loss), sacked the quarterback three times, forced four fumbles and caught two interceptions.

IVAN TAYLOR, JUNIOR, WEST ORANGE

Taylor, a four-star recruit with offers from the likes of Alabama, Notre Dame and Miami, continued to show why he’s such a coveted prospect this season. He made 50 tackles (six for a loss), forced three fumbles and caught an interception.

JALON THOMPSON, SENIOR, OLYMPIA

A North Carolina commit and three-star prospect, Thompson was a ball-hawk safety for the Titans this season, catching four interceptions and breaking up nine passes. He also added 27 tackles.

MALIKI WRIGHT, JUNIOR, DR. PHILLIPS

Wright, a USF commit and threestar prospect, was one of the standouts from a loaded Panthers defense this season. He finished the year with 74 tackles (five for a loss), two sacks, two interceptions and a fumble recovery.

UTILITY

JULIAN ANDERSON, SENIOR, THE FIRST ACADEMY

As a defensive lineman, Anderson made 40 tackles (17 for a loss), caught an interception, sacked the QB three times and forced six fumbles. At the receiver spot, he caught 51 passes for 788 yards with 13 touchdowns.

JOSHUA GUERRIER, JUNIOR, OCOEE

A three-star prospect with plenty of Power 5 offers, Guerrier did it all for the Knights this season. As a defensive back, he made 34 tackles, caught four interceptions (two of which he returned for touchdowns) and broke up 13 passes. As a returner and running back, he totaled 744 yards and four more touchdowns.

LARRY MILES, SOPHOMORE, WEST ORANGE

As a sophomore, Miles already has established himself as a certified weapon with the ball in his hands.

As a receiver, he caught 40 passes for 531 receiving yards with three touchdowns. And as a returner, he added another 494 yards with five more touchdowns.

For our second-team selections, visit OrangeObserver.com.

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You can’t really put Winslow into a positional box; he was the definition of an athlete for the Vipers this season. He had 977 total yards — 395 receiving, 309 rushing and 273 passing yards — with 18 total touchdowns — one passing, seven rushing, nine receiving and one on defense. He also added 15 total tackles, three interceptions, three pass breakups and a fumble recovery on defense.

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OBSERVER | THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2023

Holes to Go rolls into West Orange Benji Cashdollar is the mastermind behind Holes to Go. SAM ALBUQUERQUE SPORTS EDITOR

Looking back at when you were a kid, what was your favorite memory? For many who grew up in Florida, it may have been going to Disney. Or perhaps it was watching the game with your grandpa or playing catch with your dad.

For recent Ocoee transplant Benji Cashdollar, the memory that sticks out is playing miniature golf whenever he visited his grandparents in Florida.

“I love mini golf; as a kid, it’s something that we would do all the time when we went on vacation,” he said.

“My grandparents had a place down here, and so I had been to Florida many times during winter break from school. Being from the Midwest … where it’s really cold … and (when) we got a break down here with 70- or 80-degree weather … we’d just always go mini golfing. It was weird, because we’d never go back home for whatever reason, and so it just became a wonderful childhood memory and some-

Courtesy

Benji Cashdollar and his daughter, Madison, are excited to bring portable minigolf to West Orange.

thing that stuck with me. I’ve always just had a passion for mini-golf.”

Unlike most of us, though, Cashdollar has been able to take this childhood memory and use it to build a business that provides a unique service to his community, with the side benefit of bringing plenty of smiles to kids just

like Cashdollar had all those years ago.

“As I got older and I found this unique opportunity, I think that kid came out of me again and got excited about it,” Cashdollar said. “But before I could get too excited, I had to put my adult hat on and think, ‘OK, can I do this?’”

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1B

that attacked the one aspect of the Panthers’ defense that could be exploited — the size on the defensive line.

It worked.

Why am I saying any of this, though? Well, Dr. Phillips didn’t lose the game because it was a worse team. It lost the game because of the style of offense Plant played.

Three of Plant’s four touchdowns

HOW IT WORKS

He also needed to talk to his wife about the idea.

“I was excited for him to have an opportunity to find something that he had a passion for,” Cashdollar’s wife, Carly Maddock, said. “You have the unique opportunity, when you relocate, to find a new career, to find something that excites you, something that makes you feel excited about when you wake up in the morning.”

So they opened a mini-golf course, with a twist.

“When we first moved down here, I was always interested in mini golf and was looking into purchasing a permanent course,” Cashdollar said.

“That ended up being something that did not work out, but the minigolf idea had always been in the back of my mind. Then one day, I came across this idea of a portable mini golf course, and I was very intrigued.”

And the market research? That was completed through the couple’s 9-year-old daughter, Madison.

“Having a 9-year-old in the house, we’ve been to plenty of birthday parties in this community, and every year, people are always looking for something different,” Maddock said.

“What can they do that’s new and can keep kids entertained?”

Panthers take Plant to the wire

Despite the loss, Dr. Phillips’ season was one that should be celebrated.

— including the overtime winner — came from its 31 formation, and the one TD that didn’t came from a 12-play, 64-yard opening drive during which 10 of the plays and 50 of the yards on that drive came from that 31 formation.

Overall, Plant ran the ball 26 times for 181 yards and threw the ball 23 times for 74 yards. That’s 255 total yards on 49 plays. And if you take out junior running back Waltez Clark’s three touchdown runs of 35,

3B

File photo

Holes to Go is pretty simple. You call Holes to Go up and say something along the lines of: “Yo Benji, hook me up nine holes for my kid’s bar mitzvah on the 15th from noon to 3 p.m.”

And well, according to Cashdollar, that’s about it — with the caveat of some paperwork.

“We try to make it as smooth and hassle-free as possible. … We’ve got all the putters, scorecards and pencils — if you want to keep score and be competitive. We have nine holes with multiple obstacles, including a couple of fun ones that make it a little more Florida, like a shark and an alligator,” Cashdollar said. “We drop it all off, set it up, let them go. And then we’ll come back at the end, and we will pack it all back up and head out, so our customers don’t have to lift a finger.”

For Cashdollar, nothing beats seeing people of all ages enjoying the course and making memories.

“I love being at events, seeing people get super excited when they make a hole-in-one, having fun with their friends, their families,” Cashdollar said. “To see that type of joy is really cool. It’s exciting. It’s why we’re doing this. We just love to see it.”

HOLES TO GO

WEBSITE: holestogoorlando.com EMAIL: putt@holestogoorlando. com PHONE: (407) 565-7888

27 and 10 yards, that’s 183 yards in 46 plays (3.98 yards a play).

Clark finished the night with 132 yards on 17 carries with the three TDs. All-in-all, take no credit away from Plant. Its coaches came up with a great game plan, and its players executed that plan perfectly.

But it doesn’t mean Plant was the better football team on Friday night.

And although Plant exploited the only hole on a very complete Dr. Phillips team, the Panthers still pushed the higher-seed team to overtime on the road.

Despite the season being over, a tip of the cap must be given to this Dr. Phillips team and to its coach, Rodney Wells.

The Panthers weren’t the lesser team. The style just made this fight.

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OBSERVER | THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2023

OBSERVER SCHOOL ZONE

Courtesy

The winning team of Kaley Henderson, Sarah Lewis, Cate Solomon and Marissa Romeu were led by West Orange High School FFA team coach Kristy Lightbody, center.

West Orange FFA wins national food science championship and Technology Career Development The National FFA Food Science and Technology Career Event was held during the third Development Event was held during the third session of session of the 96th National FFA & Expo in Indianapolis. the 96th National FFA Convention & Expo in Indianapolis. Convention The top 10 individuals and the

West Orange High School’s FFA program has a national championship under its belt for the first time in school history — as well as in the history of Orange County Public Schools.

Former FFA adviser Kristy Lightbody is amazed at what the team of

national winning team members received cash awards to recognize their success in the event.

The Food Science and Technology CDE is designed to test a student’s basic knowledge of food science as well as the student’s ability to apply this knowledge to practical situations. Each team participates in a timed team product development project, and each individual participates in practicums involving

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COMMUNITY EDITOR

four — consisting of Kaley Henderson, Marissa Romeu, Sarah Lewis and Cate Solomon — has accomplished.

“They have worked so hard in and out of the classroom over the past two years preparing for this amazing achievement and rocked it like the amazing superstars they are,” she said.

The National FFA Food Science

food sensory evaluation and food safety and sanitation as well as a written exam.

The WOHS winners also won a trip to Atlanta in late January for the International Processing and Production Expo through the U.S. Poultry Association.

The foursome competed at the state level in February. For the national competition, they had to create a new food product as a team.

Lightbody said they were given basic information on the day of the competition and had to formulate the nutrition label and allergy information, as well as have a profit margin, ingredient statement and marketing strategies.

They also had to create a flow diagram of the actual processing of the individual ingredients in their product and come up with the packaging materials and design.

This year’s product development activity was a hot chocolate

charcuterie board, made with chocolate powder, sugar base, milk powder and various toppings relating to the target audience.

For the team product, Romeu handled processing, Henderson worked on math and nutrition, and Solomon and Lewis worked on the marketing and product display panel.

The competition includes a safety component, as well, in which participants must determine if something is a quality issue or a safety issue.

“They have to do conversions and calculate cost and shrinkage of a product, like dehydrated meat,” Lightbody said. “It’s an insane amount they actually had to learn, and a lot of it they have to put into effect.”

Teams also had to participate in a sensory panel, in which they were given unidentified scents used as food additives and had to name them.

In the second portion, they had to take part in a triangle taste test and determine which of the three items was different.

“One of the coolest parts about this team is how much they think outside of the box,” Lightbody said.

“When we’ve practiced these things before, I gave them some apple juice, and Sarah … used all of her senses, not just sight, taste and smell, she also used touch to determine the viscosity of the liquid.”

This is Romeu’s fifth year with FFA. The junior is the West Orange chapter’s student adviser and previously held positions as reporter and president. She has participated in various speaking events and other Career Development Events and exhibited many different types of livestock.

“Representing Florida was already such an immense honor for me because of my love for this Career Development Event,” Romeu said.

“Walking the stage at the National Convention in front of thousands of blue jackets, with this passionate and loving team, was a surreal moment that I will never forget.

“My favorite part of FFA is the connections I have made throughout the years, whether it be industry experts, college representatives, other chapters or the members in my

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AMY QUESINBERRY

413274-1

4B

OrangeObserver.com

home chapter who have become a part of my family,” she said.

After high school, she plans to go into the medical field, where she wants to become an anesthesiologist so she can financially support the small beef cattle operation she hopes to run.

Henderson is a four-time state champion and has competed in Food Science since she was in middle school. She is a senior at West Orange and president of the school chapter.

This is her seventh year with FFA, and she has served in a leadership capacity since her second year. She also serves on the Orange County FFA Federation officer team as president.

“It just brings me so much joy knowing that our team was able to accomplish such an impressive feat,” Henderson said.

She wants to pursue degrees in plant science and entomology.

Solomon also has competed in Food Science since middle school and is a four-time state champion.

“This really has been such a fullcircle moment for me, because Food Science was the first CDE that started me off in FFA in sixth grade, and now to win a national championship for it my senior year, it’s really special,” Solomon said.

This is Solomon’s seventh year of FFA, and she serves as the WOHS chapter’s vice president. Although she’s not sure of her college major, she said the skills and lessons she learned in FFA will remain with her for life.

“I love the connections and people you can meet through FFA,” Solomon said. “This organization has allowed me to meet individuals from my chapter that I would consider to be my second family. Even outside of my local chapter, FFA has allowed me to meet individuals from all around the state and the nation.”

“I feel a great sense of achievement to be on a national championship team,” Lewis said. “Being able to accomplish our goals is astounding.”

In the team product development portion of the competition, she created the packaging and marketing and then presented with her teammates.

“Our goal was to go in and have a lot of fun so I didn’t stress myself too much, and it really benefited us in the end,” Lewis said. “Working with my close-knit team was the best part.”

INFLUENCER OF THE WEEK

FROM OPPOSITE PAGE

OBSERVER | THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2023

MICHELLE ANDERSON

with my family, craft, go shopping with my mom and relax on the beach.

HOPE CHARTER SCHOOL Michelle Anderson is the staffing specialist at Hope Charter School. Anderson currently oversees the Exceptional Student Education Department for both Hope Charter and Legacy High schools. She facilitates all Section 504, IEP and Gifted meetings for both schools, as well as teaches learning strategies for the ninth- through 12-grade students at Legacy. She also is a member of several committees and is the team mom for the baseball team. In the past, she has coached cheerleading. Anderson has been with the schools since 2010 and has served as staffing specialist since 2017. Hope Charter Principal Christy Hunt said Anderson’s heart for providing the students with a quality education is evident in all she does.

“She is the truest definition of (a) team player,” Hunt said. “You can always find her helping others, problem-solving and providing encouragement. ... She is truly a treasure.”

What brought you to your school?

I used to work at Uno’s Pizzeria as a hostess. Some of the guests became regulars, and each visit, we would chat about different topics. Two of the teachers at Hope would come in with their families weekly. They shared wonderful stories and their experiences at Hope with me. I knew that it was a school that I would want to be a part of: small, friendly and family-oriented.

What do you love most about your school?

I love our students and staff. Hope and Legacy have dedicated and passionate teachers, along with administrators and support staff. It gives me a sense of family and belonging. I really become invested in my students, and I want to play a positive role as they navigate the high school years. I hope to empower them to have faith and belief in themselves.

REPORT CARD POSITION: Staffing specialist TIME AT SCHOOL: Fourteen years with Hope Charter and Legacy High schools

5B

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

Julie Andrews. My dad was a huge fan of hers, as well, and that’s something we bonded over. Now that he’s gone, that memory brings me peace when I’m missing him.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

The most rewarding part of my job is to see my students reach their “aha” moments. I love to see them reach their potential and beyond.

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

I think I would love to work in a bakery.

Baking gives me feelings of happiness and comfort. I love to bake and share with my family and friends.

Who influences you?

My family and my friends that have become family have had the biggest influence on my life. My parents supported me growing up in all aspects of my life: school, sports and religion.

Who was your favorite teacher when you were in school? Why? I had the most wonderful fifth-grade teacher, who poured so much love and effort into all her students. She is the person who first made me love learning. In high school, I had the most amazing math teachers in ninth (Mrs. Mancino) and 10th grade (Mrs. Gilmartin). They made learning the more complex math concepts so easy and related with color-coded notes, words of encouragement and patience as I learned the steps to solve the problems correctly.

What is your favorite children’s book and why?

The “Little House on the Prairie” books were my all-time favorite books to read as (a) young girl. I would compare what happened in the books to the actual show.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

In my spare time, I love to spend time

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

I would love to be able to teleport to all places that I have family. It would allow me to spend time and visit with them at a moment’s notice.

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

Carrie Underwood (because) she has a song to go with every feeling; Alabama (because) they were one of my dad’s favorites; and Guns N’ Roses for the days I need something different.

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

Bologna and cheese with mustard, and potato chips on the side.

What is your favorite holiday and why?

Christmas! Everything about it brings me such happiness: decorations, food, movies and music.

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

I had two very close friends that I did everything with. We are still in touch through Facebook and Instagram as we watch all our kids grow up and reach milestones.

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

I was captain of our high school swim team all through high school, I was part of the youth ministry at my church, tutored, babysat, (was) on the yearbook committee, (was) in National Honor Society, and I worked with our theater and drama department. I graduated No. 22 in my class out of 223 students.

— ANNABELLE SIKES

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WEST ORANGE OBITUARIES

OBSERVER | THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2023

Horizon West Church throws Fall Street Party

T

KARL D. KAUP DIED OCT. 18, 2023.

LOYD C. WARREN DIED NOV. 13, 2023.

Karl D. Kaup, age 75, of Paxton, Florida, passed away Oct. 18, 2023. He was born May 28, 1947, in Portland, Oregon, to Donald K. Kaup and Marie Cardinale Kaup. He was an Ocoee resident for 30 years.

Karl proudly served his country in the U.S. Air Force.

He Worked at A&P Grocery Store in Ocoee, where he met his wife, Frankie Reeves. (This Dec. 28, 2023, would have been their 50th wedding anniversary.)

He later worked for Shell Oil Company and Walt Disney World, and after 50 years of working, Frankie and Karl retired and lived in Paxton, Florida.

Karl was preceded in death by father, Donald K. Kaup; and mother, Marie Cardinale Kaup.

He is survived by his wife, Frankie Reeves Kaup, of Paxton, Florida; daughters, Theresa Shuster and husband, David, of Mountain Home, Idaho, Mary Kaup, of Ocoee, Florida; brother, Stephen Kaup and wife, Sharon; sister, Janet Johnson and husband, David; and grandsons, Kaleb Shuster, Connor Shuster and Reese Shuster.

Funeral service was held in Florala, Alabama, at the Evans Funeral Home Oct. 22, 2023. He was laid to rest at Gum Creek Cemetery in Defuniak Springs, Florida.

Loyd C. Warren, of Winter Garden, passed away Nov. 13, 2023, at Advent Health Hospice in Orlando.

Loyd was born Sept. 30, 1938, to Loyd C. Sr. and Altha (Mayberry) Warren in Fisk, Missouri. He studied engineering for one year at the University of Missouri at Rolla.

Loyd married Eugenia “Jeanie” Robertson in 1959 and moved to Florida in 1977. He and Jeanie owned Orange Blossom Indian River Citrus, a retail store and citrus mail-order business in Orlando for 25 years. A self-taught engineer and inventor, he obtained a patent for an orange juice extracting machine.

Loyd served in the Missouri National Guard for seven years.

He was active in the Jaycees and Lions Club. He was a member of the Florida Gift Fruit Shippers Association and served on the board of directors of Orlando Lutheran Towers. He enjoyed international travel and was a lifelong jazz music enthusiast.

Loyd is survived by his wife, Jeanie; daughter, Carla (Michael) Campbell; son, Clark Warren; sister, Barbara Warren Mattingly; brother, Gail Warren; and grandsons, Justin Warren and Evan Campbell.

Loyd was preceded in death by one brother, Jerry L. Warren.

A memorial service was held in Missouri Nov. 18. Donations to the American Kidney Fund were requested in lieu of flowers.

he First Baptist Orlando Horizon West Campus hosted its 2023 Fall Street Party Saturday, Nov. 4, at Horizon High School.

The free, family-friendly community event featured food trucks, inflatables, giveaways, games, hay rides, crafts, face painting and balloon art. Attendees also brought items to donate to wishlists from the CARE Program and Family Visitation.

— ANNABELLE SIKES

Families utilized the provided photo backdrop to take fallthemed pictures.

Kalisa Hunt played one of the giant versions of the Connect 4 game.

Left: Hayley Langston and Ady Ogden had their faces painted with bright colors and sparkles.

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OBSERVER | THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2023

THESE OLD TIMES

FROM THE WINTER GARDEN HERITAGE FOUNDATION

NOV. 22, 1973 Remember when television sets were an actual piece of furniture and weighed as much as a small car?

If you visited the Goodyear Service Store at 741 S. Dillard St., in Winter Garden (which now is the location of Mili’s Gym), you could pick up one of these beauties for $599 with a trade-in.

The General Electric TV sets — The Casablanca III, The Crestview II and The Southampton IV — featured side volume control, automatic fine tuning, tilt-out controls, an illuminated channel control and 100% solid state chassis.

What about the remote control? That feature was years away, but you had your children to get up and change the channel for you in the meantime.

90 years ago

Classes at Lakeview High School selected their new officers. Senior officers were Dan McKinnon, president; Mike Roper, vice president; Elizabeth Dieffenwierth, secretary; and Stanley Roper, treasurer.

Mrs. D.D. Diefenwierth was room mother.

Work was nearing completion on the three shuffleboard courts being constructed on the site of the proposed city park near Legion Hall. In addition, two horseshoe courts and one croquet court were close to being finished.

55 years ago

“The First Thanksgiving,” a oneact play to celebrate the holiday, was presented by Bill Boon’s fifth-grade class at Dillard Street Elementary School. The leading parts were performed by Randy Craig (Squanto); Tim Sellati (Father); Tammy Guthrie (Mother); Vickie Dasher (Betty); Brian Huttle (Edward); Mike Stokes (Richard); Judy Powell (Aunt Ruth); Craig Crawford (Miles Standish); Mary Hood (Priscilla); Ron Waters (John Alden); Mary Lowry (Mary); Mark Adams (Robert); and Victor Gordon, Tony Johnson, David Blanchard, Johnny Johnson, Tim Faircloth, Randy Blackstone and Jeff Whitman (Indians).

A happy and grateful Thanksgiving to all our West Orange County families!

Pictured here are members of the Acton family enjoying the day’s feast and festivities in 2000, from left: Nancy Cox Acton (Mrs. Daniel); Daniel Acton; Billy Garrison (son of Sally Acton); Beulah Chandler Reeves (Mrs. Ed O.); Mae Jones Reeves (Mrs. Dock); and Glenda Reeves Acton (Mrs. Lawrence).

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.

45 years ago

The 1978 West Orange Debutantes to be presented at the Bay Hill Club were Amy Castleberry, Megan Cloughley, Jane DeWeese, Alison Guernsey, Patricia Horne, Nancy Hunter, Kimberly Jones, Nancy Lummus, Jacquelyn Miller, LeAnn McWhorter, Mary Roberson, Sandra Roper, Michele Sawyer, Susan Shelton, Martha Teal, Elizabeth Walker and Cindy Wheatley.

The ninth annual Holiday Bazaar had a two-day stand for the first time and had a record number of 14 participating organizations.

Crowds were bigger than ever.

40 years ago

The Hilton at Walt Disney World Village celebrated its grand opening. Located on 23 beautifully landscaped acres adjacent to the Disney Village, the luxurious new property offered 814 guest rooms, including 29 elegantly appointed suites. A unique feature was the Youth Hotel, which offered accommodations for children ages 3 to 12 when parents were away from the hotel.

35 years ago

Charles Campbell, of Winter Garden, won an $8.5 million Lotto jackpot. He purchased the ticket at Reddi Market on Dillard Street.

The syndicated television show “Superboy” was filmed on location at Windermere Town Hall.

Gus and Marlene Staumatin, owners of the Villa Rosa Restaurant on Old Winter Garden Road, were holding a special eighth anniversary celebration with 50% off all dinners.

crossword

celebrity cipher

TWO PEAS IN A POD by Kelly Richardson, edited by Jeff Chen 122 Straight out of

62 Niagara Falls province

123 Remnants

63 Mario Kart platform

124 Throw out

65 “It’s a doggy dog world,”

125 Bow’s opposite

say 66 “Holy Toledo!”

DOWN

67 “Strange Currencies” band

1 Pupusa ingredient

68 Braz. neighbor

2 “Oh, no!”

69 Comedic projectile

3 Stare in shock

70 Forest forager’s find

4 Fire up

71 Denny’s munchies

5 Like many politicians’

72 “Barbie” co-writer

answers

Baumbach

6 Blueprints, of sorts

73 Seaweed snack

7 Toddler’s basics

76 Highly skilled

8 Pluck

77 Shake on it

9 Word that can go with

78 Takes in wise words

“bull’s” and “eagle”

80 Many a downtown dream

10 Altar end of a church

apartment

11 Cheer on

81 Cup of coffee on a Mon-

12 Like a trenchcoat or

day morning, say

mushroom

82 Major studying DNA

13 Quirky

83 Point on a maple leaf

14 Buck

84 Like some drivers at a

15 King’s plot?

red light 16 “It’s a dog-eat-dog world,” 86 Like Manhattan during

©2023 Universal Uclick

ACROSS 1 Conjuring a rabbit out of a hat, e.g.

6 Bequeathed 10 Trod the boards 15 “Getting warmer,” for one 19 Texas landmark 20 Listing locale 21 Whereabouts 22 Whiff 23 One who’s fully present for every tiny moment with his niece?

25 Some like it hot 26 Hayworth of “The Lady from Shanghai” 27 Unmoored 28 Meh 29 Club connected by a deep enjoyment of Carolina Reapers?

31 Pyramid scheme

64 Tear apart

97 Radiates

33 Shortcut, in short

65 One who embraces his

98 Pastoral chorus

35 Wetland

identity as a helpful little fish 100 Place for a “me day”

36 Cartwheel across a

in a big pond?

102 Brewski

meadow, say

71 Elsa’s sister

104 Exclude

37 Links

74 “You see?”

105 One with a sense of pur-

41 Space launch?

75 ___ Grande

pose in living off the land?

43 Way up for skiers

76 “Feels great!”

108 Score symbol

45 Person whose worries

79 Dipping point?

110 Tablet not to be swal-

vanish as she captains her

80 Infamous spitter

lowed

ship across Lake Geneva?

82 Mountains near the

114 Against

47 Missy Elliott, e.g.

Shenandoah River

115 Elliptical

51 Big bovine

85 Ever on guard

116 State of serenity, and

52 Do away with

87 Math proportion

what six answers have in

53 Nudge the dial

90 Short summons

common, both metaphori-

54 “Don’t ask me”

91 Send away, as an evil

cally and homophonically

57 Tree with durable wood

stepmother might do

118 Oodles

59 50-Down instrument

92 Finding bliss as a barista? 119 Comedian Bruce

60 “Nothing but ___!”

95 “The ___ of Spring”

120 Level

61 Leeds lav

(Stravinsky work)

121 Management class

62 Credit with

96 Vinelike

subject?

say

rush hour

17 Still out

88 How some bonds are

18 Corner

traded

24 Common practice

89 Texter’s adieu

29 Pastel Easter treats

92 Background for policy

30 Vintner’s fruit

decisions

32 Cream-filled Sicilian

93 Hams

dessert

94 Less risky

34 Patatas bravas or pimien- 98 Country abode tos de padron

99 Determine one will

37 Polio vaccine developer

101 Flat out

38 Like Frankenstein’s

103 “The Ecstasy of Gold”

monster

composer Morricone

39 Take down a giant

105 ___ Dome (Yosemite

40 ___-ball

sight)

42 Campaign exhortation

106 Crumble

44 ___ mi (Vietnamese

107 Big brand in the freezer

sandwich)

aisle

46 Radio personality Glass

109 Eleven has two

48 Lazy river float

111 Elliot of “The Umbrella

49 Unknown author (Abbr.)

Academy”

50 Woodwind insert

112 Laptop brand

53 Prince in disguise,

113 Laura of “Jurassic World

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

Each letter in the cipher stands for another.

“ZECOC’V B XTZ TD NLDDCOCUZ DTOHV TD KTHHPULKBZLTU, YPZ HPVLK LV BYVTXPZCXF ZEC GPOCVZ TUC.” NPBUC BXXHBU

“OH UL VCXAB MAA PXTJ AMXKF MJ CXWTLASLT, OI FMWB JOGLT CW KCCB JOGLT, OJ UCXAB EL MI OIVWLBOEAL UCWAB.”

PLIM GMACIL

“NVY MA ORY AVVZ YR WKF YCV TNLXV WRP YCV HLAY -- NVY MA LJJVHY RMP RSO PVAHROAKTKNKYD WRP YCV WMYMPV.”

IRCO W. ZVOOVUD

Puzzle Three Clue: U equals D

50 years ago

FROM THE ARCHIVES

Puzzle Two Clue: B equals D

Lillie Taylor’s sophomore biology classes at Lakeview High School stalked the campus in the Great Biology Class Insect Hunt in the first six weeks of school. Each student was required to collect and identify 100 insects and build a display case for them.

7B

THROWBACK THURSDAY

Puzzle One Clue: F equals Y

W EST O RANG E HISTO RY

OrangeObserver.com

© 2023 NEA, Inc.

sudoku

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

perhaps

Dominion” 55 Platform for Apple devices 116 Wednesday’s cousin 56 Seurat brushstroke, often 117 ___ de deux 58 Noshed

©2023 Andrews McMeel Syndicate

11-23-23

Made for where you live. Here!

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2023

DEADLINES: Classifieds - Friday at Noon

HELP US CELEBRATE

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

Notice: All real estate advertised herein is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation, or discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin, or intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised are available on an equal opportunity basis.

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Puzzle Three Solution: “Let us not seek to fix the blame for the past – let us accept our own responsibility for the future.” John F. Kennedy

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OBSERVER | THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2023

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OBSERVER | THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2023

GIVING THANKS AND GIVING BACK:

BAPTIST

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

LAKE APOPKA NATURAL GAS DISTRICT

That’s why, throughout 2023, we actively participated in numerous community events, such as the 2023 Jimmy Crabtree Cancer Fund Family Fun Bowl, the Matt’s Mission Heart Safe Golf Tournament and the Chanell Wright Foundation Golf Tournament benefiting Kids with Sickle Cell Disease, among others. Over the past year, we’ve

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

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 Traditional 10:45 AM Contemporary Also viewable on YouTube

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

Last but not least, the most direct way we can continue giving back to our community is by providing resilient and versatile natural gas service to our valued customers who have entrusted us with this responsibility and allowed us to provide this unmatched energy source to their homes and businesses. Our mission is to ensure your satisfaction, and we take pride in delivering on that promise.

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Be sure to also stay in the loop by liking, following and sharing LANGD’s content on Facebook (/LANGDFL) and LinkedIn (/company/lakeapopka-natural-gas-district/).

EPISCOPAL

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With so much to be thankful for, LANGD wants to ensure we do our part to give back. We take pride in being more than just a public utility; we aspire to be an engaged member of the community we serve.

We are also proud of the impact that the LANGD Helping Hand fund continues to have. This customer assistance fund was born from the dedication of our employees, who observed a growing need among residential customers struggling to pay their utility bills due to the impact of COVID-related furloughs and layoffs. Since its inception in 2021, the fund has supported over 70 families with overdue utility bills, embodying a spirit of community and mutual support during challenging times. We invite our customers, employees, vendors and fellow community members to contribute to the fund, ensuring that we can continue to extend a helping hand to those in need. Visit www.

LANGD.org to learn more.

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

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We also want to say “thank you” to our local legislators, who deserve our appreciation for championing consumer freedom when it comes to energy choice. Notably, a law passed in 2021 safeguarded the rights of consumers to choose their preferred energy source and prevented local governments from restricting fuel options.

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

been part of more than a dozen such events, and we’re excited to continue engaging with and supporting our wonderful community for years to come.

CHURCH OF GOD

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s November ushers in cooler weather and holiday decorating, we at Lake Apopka Natural Gas District (LANGD) want to take a moment to reflect on what we are thankful for and express our immense gratitude for our beautiful community, dedicated staff, valued partners and, of course, our loyal customers.

To our more than 28,000 commercial and residential customers: thank you for allowing us to provide you with safe, reliable and cost-effective natural gas service for over six decades.

You are the reason why we do what we do, and your continued support fuels our commitment to excellence.

As we approach Veteran’s Day, we especially want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to our incredible veterans for their dedication and unwavering commitment to our nation. Thank you for your service.

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Saturday, December 2

Strolling Dickens Carolers

Hand-Drawn Holiday Caricatures Children’s Holiday Story Time

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www.downtownwg.com

1:00 – 4:00 PM

Outdoor Vendor Booths with Holiday Goods & Gifts Pedestrian Only Holiday Wonderland

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Holiday Entertainment

Restaurants & Cafés

A Very Merry Light Show

Bakeries & Ice Cream Parlors

Festive Decorations & Light Displays

Brewery

Themed Photo Stations

Small Town Holiday Charm

Boutique Shops & Unique Retail Stores

Free Parking Much More!

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www.downtownwg.com

@officialdowntownwintergarden