02.08.24 West Orange Times & Observer

See a crime? Report it at tip411

ANNABELLE SIKES

NEWS EDITOR

Residents can now submit anonymous, non-emergency tips 24/7 to the Winter Garden Police Department through a new technology crime fighting tool: Winter Garden PD tip411.

Police Chief Steve Graham announced the new app at the Winter Garden City Commission meeting Thursday, Jan. 11.

Winter Garden PD tip411 allows residents to submit anonymous information through three different options. Residents can download the free Winter Garden PD app from the Apple or Google Play stores and also sign up to receive public safety alerts through the app.

The second option is to submit a tip via text message to the WGPD by texting the keyword “WGPD” and the tip to 847411.

Finally, residents can submit a tip through the WGPD website at wgpd. com or through the city of Winter Garden website at cwgdn.com.

“Being able to report crime tips to police anonymously and conveniently through an app or via text or city website is beneficial to the community while being

helpful to police, and in some cases, may prevent crime before it happens,” City Manager Jon C. Williams said.

TIP411

The technology utilizes a third-party service to protect residents’ identity and contact information, keeping tips anonymous. The tip411 service is strictly for non-emergency use. For emergencies, always contact 911.

“We still want people to call 911,” Graham said. “If it’s a crime in progress, we need to have the details. 911 is still the pri-

mary, but dispatch will still be aware if they’re doing a tip411.”

Graham said WGPD representatives have been having discussions regarding the new tool for a few months.

“It resulted because we have a lot of information that’s out in the neigh-

borhoods in the community that’s not getting to us,” he said. “Basically, we’re not getting the actual intelligence that we could. There are a few possible reasons for that. It could be that in certain neighborhoods they don’t want to be seen talking to the police or they’re afraid of retribution for talking to the police or providing information on a crime. They may not want to be identified as the complaint or a witness, and they may not want to go to court later or testify against or about something that’s going to make them uncomfortable. This provides an outlet where they can be completely anonymous. We can also interact with residents and get more information from them through this service.”

Although most other local organizations do not currently have this operation, Graham said the idea is popular on the West Coast.

In terms of monitoring the information, the department has a few administrative accounts, including one Graham has himself, as well as one owned by Lt. Michael Mason, who will be the main coordinator of the program. Dispatch also has an administrative account.

COMMUNITY IMPACT Graham hopes the community will sign up for the tool’s push notifications, so if the department is looking for something, it can send the information to the people who have subscribed. “I would hope that by sharing more informa-

tion we can be more effective and be more responsive,” he said. “We’re pretty good at solving crimes, but this would just make us better.”

Winter Garden resident Zach Waxler heard about the Winter Garden PD app recently and thinks it’s fantastic.

“I created my account within the app, and submitting a tip is very quick and easy,” he said. “It simply asks you for a subject, location and description of what you saw. I feel this is going to help our community engage with our great law-enforcement officers in a much more simplistic way. It is sometimes intimidating calling the nonemergency number for little things, but now you can quickly submit a thought, idea or a problem and it will be seen by our police department. Our city and our police department is here for us. This is them showing they want our feedback and they want to hear our concerns.”

Winter Garden resident Chloe Johnson first heard about the app at the commission meeting.

“This is another good tool for the community residents to use and to be a help by keeping their neighborhoods safe,” she said. “If you see something, you can now report it at the comfort of your phone by texting immediately, while remaining anonymous. It’s a great way of city officials and residents working together for a better and safer community.”

“A

Annabelle Sikes

Winter Garden Police Department Chief Steve Graham hopes the new app will make it easier for residents to report crimes

A LOT OFF THE TOP

After the Publix in Hamlin raised $13,026.24 for the Publix Torch Icon Campaign for Special Olympics, store manager Josh Fahlstrom shaved his head to celebrate the victory.

ANNABELLE SIKES NEWS EDITOR

The Hamlin Publix in Horizon West is celebrating a victory following the store beating its goal of raising $12,000 for the Publix Torch Icon Campaign with a whopping $13,026.24.

To celebrate, Josh Fahlstrom, store manager for more than five years, shaved his head Saturday, Jan. 27, in front of the store at 5400 Hamlin Groves Trail, Winter Garden.

“I take pride in giving back, and my store team gets excited for campaigns like Special Olympics because the money raised goes to support athletes right here in our community and even in our store,” he said.

Winter Garden considers medical office on S.R. 50

The proposed Garcia Winter Garden Office development would be located at 14237 W. Colonial Drive.

ANNABELLE SIKES

NEWS EDITOR

A developer is seeking to build a new medical office building on West Colonial Drive in Winter Garden.

The city of Winter Garden hosted a community meeting Monday, Jan. 29, at City Hall, to discuss the site plan for the proposed project.

The 2,352-square-foot Garcia Winter Garden Office development, proposed by Burton Construction, would be located at 14237 W. Colo-

nial Drive, across from the Firestone Complete Auto Care.

The zoning for the property is Arterial Commercial District and the Future Land Use is Commercial.

The building would feature cultured stone veneer, have a stucco finish and be topped off with a standing seam metal roof.

The maximum building height for the project would be 35 feet, and all utilities for the project would be underground.

Planning Director Kelly Carson said given the small size of the lot, the applicant would need variances to allow reduced setbacks.

Based on office use parking requirements, three spaces would be required per 1,000 square feet of gross floor area.

TORCH CAMPAIGN

Publix, Procter & Gamble and the Special Olympics have partnered together for 44 years to help people with intellectual disabilities achieve their dreams through the Publix Torch Icon Campaign.

This signature event unites Publix associates, customers and local communities in an effort to support nearly 70,000 Special Olympics athletes in Florida and beyond, as well as their families.

The first torch campaign was held in 1993, and since then, more than $71 million has been raised through the campaign, helping Special Olympics athletes to develop their physical and mental wellness, dem-

onstrate courage and experience the power of sports with their family, friends and communities.

Publix has supported Special Olympics Florida and its athletes for more than 50 years.

“When Special Olympics Florida was founded in 1972, Publix was there, supporting our athletes from the very beginning,” Special Olympics Florida President and CEO Sherry Wheelock said. “They have been with us ever since, stepping up and working tirelessly to ensure the success of the annual Torch Icon Campaign. We are profoundly grateful to Publix associates and customers for being part of the Special Olympics Florida team.”

Beginning Jan. 12 and running through Jan. 21, customers who visited their local Publix could help support their state athletes with a donation, which can be made at the register during checkout for as little as $1 or a specific desired amount.

“At Publix, our mission is to be involved as responsible citizens within our communities,” Publix Director of Community Relations

Dwaine Stevens said. “Our support of (the) Special Olympics began 44 years ago, recognizing their impact as a means to build strong communities then, and this legacy continues today as we are proud to be an employer of choice among more than 800 Special Olympics athletes across our seven-state operating area. We offer our athletes more than just a job — we offer a fulfilling career and an extension of family. We are proud to join our communities in doing good together.”

MORE THAN JUST A CAMPAIGN

Local Horizon West athletes and brothers, Matthew and Ryan Letcher, have been participating in Special Olympics for 18 years.

Matthew Letcher, 30, is involved in basketball, golf and flag football, while Ryan Letcher, 29, participates in track and field, swimming, bowling, flag football, and golf.

The boys started working at the Hamlin Publix together on the same day eight years ago.

The pair agreed their favorite part of the job is making friends with their co-workers and spending time with them.

Mother Lisa Landsberger said she has seen working at Publix have a drastic impact on her sons.

“(Working at Publix has) greatly improved (their) social skills, (as well as provided them) the ability to make friends and go out to have fun,” she said. “(Publix has given them) a sense of belonging to a family and a better appreciation for hard work.”

Surpassing the $12,000 goal for the torch campaign means Special Olympics Florida is receiving more recognition and helping spread inclusion, Matthew Letcher said.

“Our customers are very generous and like to support us,” Ryan Letcher said.

Seeing Fahlstrom shave his head was a funny and meaningful experience for the boys.

Matthew Letcher said it’s amazing their store manager is so supportive.

The brothers agreed it is important for people to continue supporting the campaign so athletes like themselves can compete with other athletes at no cost to the athletes or their families.

According to the site plans, although only seven spaces would be required, nine are being provided: six standard, one handicap and two bicycle stalls. The applicant currently is going through the city of Winter Garden’s site-plan review process.

Courtesy photo

Hamlin Publix Store Manager Josh Fahlstrom, second from right, had his head shaved by Noel Gonzalez, a meat cutter at another Publix location in Winter Garden.

Observer

“If

Design

Sports

Sales

Woman’s Club of Ocoee celebrates 100 years

AMY QUESINBERRY COMMUNITY EDITOR

In February 1924, a group of 36 women desired to create a society so others with common interests could gather for fellowship and to improve the social, civic, educational and moral welfare of the community.

One hundred years later, members continue the tradition of hosting and supporting programs benefitting students, women and the community.

The organization has maintained a roster of dedicated women for a century, and the club is steeped in history and tradition.

INAUGURAL MEMBERS

The first meeting of the Woman’s Club of Ocoee was held at the home of Mrs. Arthur M. Clark. Attending the inaugural gathering were Clark, Bess Scott (president), Mrs. Harry Flewelling (first vice president), Mrs. M.F. Maguire (second vice president), Mrs. W.S. Pounds (secretary), Grace Pounds (treasurer), Kathryn Sims, Eva Sims, Mrs. Eugene Bartlett, Mrs. Guy Britt, Mrs. S.H. Brooker, Flora Burke, Mrs. B.D. Bennett, Mrs. T.N. Camp, Mrs. J.Z. Eckles, Mrs. Clyde Flewelling (board member), Mrs. J.W. Grey, Mary Griffin, Mrs. Holt Henley, Lucy Hawthorne, Edna Ingold, Mrs. L.J. Jackson, Mrs. R.J. Kerr, Mrs. B.A. Minor, Mrs. F.H. Maguire, Mrs. J.H. McVey, Mrs. P.J. New, Mrs. William Pease, Nora Salisbury, Mrs. Robert Seegar, Mrs. Sidney West, Mrs. Darrell Watson, Mrs. Harry Shaffer, Mrs. G.A. Washburn, Rebel Withers and Mrs. R.F. Whittaker.

“I think that because we’re dedicated to community improvement by enhancing the lives of others through community service,” said Sue Lowrie, first-year club president and a member for five years. “We are one of the few organizations that have been volunteering for (more than) 100 years.”

The earliest members joined after their previous social group, Community Club, disbanded. They brought with them $120.78 to the newly formed club, and 10 months later, members had grown the fund to $1,000.

The first official meeting was held at the home of Mrs. Arthur M. Clark. The first president was Bess Scott. The club motto was “In unity there is strength,” its colors were orange and green, and the club flower was the hibiscus.

The Ocoee club federated with Orange County in 1925 and joined the Florida Federation of Women’s Clubs in 1932.

The club’s earliest service projects were beautifying the grounds, donating library books, and providing clothing and lunches for needy children at the local school; and planting palm trees and hibiscuses along the city’s roadways.

Because the club had money in its bank account, it was approached for financial assistance in a variety of

ways: to provide a layette for a new baby, glasses for an elderly couple and bleachers for the Ocoee school.

Before a permanent meeting space was established, the members met in each other’s homes, in the pavilion of the bath house at Starke Lake and at the Ocoee Inn. They raised funds through musical teas, barn dances, card parties, bake sales, annual bazaars and suppers.

The one-story clubhouse, built at 4 N. Lakewood Ave., with Works Progress Administration funds, was completed and dedicated in February 1938. It originally was deeded — for the purposes of the WPA grant — to the city of Ocoee until its completion but was turned over to the woman’s club that year.

As the club membership grew, so, too, did the departments in which the women could serve. Under the Fine Arts umbrella, members could participate in Bible, Literature, Music and Drama, Decorations and Flowers, and Hospitality and Hostess. Under Social Service, the women could choose either Health and Welfare or the Needlework Guild.

Citing a sincere interest from younger women, the club started the Ocoee Junior Woman’s Club. The junior and senior groups eventually merged.

Club members spent hours gathered at the local school’s lunchroom to can vegetables and fruit to give to families in need. During World War II, they folded bandages for the American Red Cross and other causes to help with the war effort. They sewed garments for Orange General Hospital.

A newspaper article dated Feb. 5, 1960, described in ornate detail the annual birthday luncheon and the extent to which the table hostesses decorated for their month.

“January, Mrs. C.L. Allen and Mrs. O.E. McGuire, whose theme was taken from the new year, with the new year riding on a miniature float and party dolls made from wooden spoons and net at each place. …

March, by Miss Lillian Maguire, was a bit of the Emerald Isle itself. The Irish linen tablecloth had shamrocks woven into the cloth, and the cream and sugar set was Irish silver, all brought back from her visit from Ireland last summer. Her centerpiece was white milk glasses filled with white and green magnolias.”

The rest of the months were rounded out with pink and gray damask cloth, white swan mint cups, a summer idyll with water lilies, a Styrofoam schoolhouse and miniature schoolhouses at each place with tablets and pencils as favors, a china sleigh filled with nuts, and a salt-and-pepper set featuring two children in a sleigh. The club supported such events and causes as the March of Dimes drives and the American Red Cross. Members planned benefit brunches and card parties, election luncheons, yearly May Day teas and the annual St. Patrick’s Day dinner tradition of serving corned beef and cabbage. In 2010, the club officially added General Federation to its name after many years of being an active club member.

A year later, the clubhouse was recognized for its historical significance and added to the National Register of Historic Places, joining two other Ocoee structures: Ocoee Christian Church and the WithersMaguire House. The Woman’s Club facility is the only building in the city constructed in the Art Moderne style of architecture.

TODAY

The Woman’s Club of Ocoee has close to 30 members who continue the work started generations ago. Among the club’s many projects is the Creative Expressions program for fifth-graders at Ocoee’s elementary schools. It started as an essay contest and has grown to include essays, artwork, poetry, music and skits on a topic provided by the club. The winners are recognized by club members, and the school receives school supplies.

For years, the club has hosted the city’s political forums with Ocoee City Commission candidates and has offered scholarships to female students at Ocoee and West Orange high schools and Orange Technical College – Westside Campus.

The women engage in other community outreach programs involving Camp Boggy Creek, Canine Companions for Independence, Special Olympics and Wreaths Across America at Florida National Cemetery. The club created a special project, Warm and Fuzzies, and donated annually about 50 bags that included a blanket, book and other children’s items to young patients in cancer treatment through Advent Health.

Members also continue to enjoy their annual birthday luncheon, where they sit at a holiday-themed table that corresponds with their birth month.

Lowrie is excited to lead the club into its next chapter.

“Plans are to just continue on as we have been, volunteering in the community with various projects,” she said. “We have our own (programs) we support, in addition to other community projects.”

Members and guests of the club will gather Saturday, Feb. 10, for its Centennial Celebration. Several special guests are expected, and a representative of Orlando Mayor Jerry L. Demings will present a proclamation.

CONTACT US

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Courtesy

Members

Jean Brown, District 7 director of the Florida Federation of Women’s Clubs, swore in Sue Lowrie, president; Chestina Black, first vice president; Diane Isaacs, second vice president; Jennifer Johns, recording secretary; Angela Shirley, corresponding secretary; and Cathy Sills, treasurer.

Duke Energy Florida to file for increased base rates

However, the utility company expects customers’ bills to decrease in 2025 because of expiring contracts.

MICHAEL ENG EDITOR AND PUBLISHER

Duke Energy Florida on Wednesday, Jan. 31, notified the Florida Public Service Commission of its intent to file a rate case in April with increased base rates taking effect in January 2025.

The company is requesting an average annual base rate increase of about 4% during 2025 through 2027.

Even with the requested base rate increase, company officials expect overall customer bills to decrease in 2025. The 2022 fuel under-recovery, storm restoration cost recovery and legacy purchased power contracts will expire year-end 2024, which will lower overall bills in 2025.

“This proposal offers what our customers want — a more reliable energy system using cleaner energy,” Melissa Seixas, Duke Energy Florida state president said. “We are focused on making smart energy investments that leverage innovative technology to increase power plant efficiency and reduce outages.”

Duke officials said the proposed investments will decrease outages and shorten restoration times for customers and communities, while reducing emissions.

INVESTMENTS

Investments under the proposed 2025-2027 rate case filing include:

n Continued grid modernization to serve increased population growth through improved reliability, resulting in fewer outages and shorter restoration times.

n Between 2018 and 2023, the company reduced the average length of a customer outage by 27%. In 2023, the company had its best reliability performance in more than a decade.

n Customers are already benefiting from Duke’s self-healing technology through Duke’s Storm Protection Program. This technology reroutes power and reduces the number of customers who experience outages. For example, during hurricanes Ian, Nicole and Idalia, self-healing grid technologies helped to automatically restore service to more than 230,000 customers who experienced outages and saved more than 200 million minutes of total lost outage time.

n Continued enhancements to power plants to reduce fuel consumption, generating future customer savings.

n Duke Energy Florida estimates customers will save $150 million to $200 million per year in reduced fuel costs from investments under the proposed 2025-2027 rate case filing.

n Building 14 new solar plants between 2025 and 2027, adding another 1,050 megawatts of clean energy to Florida’s grid.

n Additionally, the continued exploration of innovative clean energy technologies, such as long-duration energy storage and the DeBary Hydrogen project, a clean energy hydrogen production and storage system.

NEXT STEPS

The proposed 2025-2027 rate case filing is subject to the FPSC approval. The approval process includes public hearings to allow customer’s feedback on the rate requests and the utility service quality. The FPSC considers customer input when reviewing rate increase requests.

The schedule of public hearings will be announced through the FPSC’s website and customer bill inserts.

Timing is expected for mid-year.

Residents: Veterinary clinic will impact wetlands

ANNABELLE SIKES

NEWS EDITOR

Residents voiced their concerns regarding a veterinary clinic proposed on a property with the majority of the site being wetlands.

mum 25-foot buffer from the wetlands. Thus, the plan will need to be revised, or a CAI impact permit will be required with mitigation.

A proposed vet clinic has residents concerned with wetland and environmental impacts, flooding, and safety for pedestrians and bicyclists. Courtesy

Orange County’s Zoning Division hosted a community meeting to make residents aware of the Vista Pointe Vet Clinic project Wednesday, Jan. 24, at Lake Whitney Elementary School.

The applicant for Vista Pointe, Momtaz Barq, is requesting a special exception in the Citrus Rural District to allow a veterinary service with no outdoor runs.

The subject property is located just west of Lake Whitney Elementary, north of McKinnon Road, west of Maguire Road and southeast of State Road 429, at 1450 Windermere Road.

The majority of the currently vacant 5.13-acre site is wetlands, 4.56 acres. The current Future Land Use for the property is Rural/Agricultural.

The single-story, 4,200-squarefoot veterinarian building with parking is proposed on the front 0.57 upland acres of the property.

WETLAND WORRIES

Orange County Case Planner Nick Balevich said Orange County’s Environmental Protection Division has reviewed the request.

Based on an Orange County Conservation Area Determination completed Sept. 5, 2022, 4.57 acres of Class II wetlands and 0.57 acres of uplands were identified. A Conservation Area Impact permit application was submitted Nov. 30, 2023, for proposed wetland impacts.

Balevich said an average 50-foot buffer is required, with a mini -

The project site also is located within a delineated area of groundwater contamination as defined by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. A Phase 1 Environmental Site Assessment will be required to be submitted prior to any plan or permit approvals.

Although the applicant said the project would have minimal impacts on the surrounding community, the site plan proposes raising the area two to three feet above where the property currently is at, which could impact the streamflow.

Residents in the surrounding area expressed worries about flooding, stating when it heavily rains, the nearby houses, sidewalks and roads flood.

Orange County District 1 Commissioner Nicole Wilson lives nearby in the area and expressed concerns with the likely impact on the wetlands.

“We just passed a wetland ordinance that has been a tremendous investment and a lot of work, and it doesn’t go into effect yet,” she said.

“I am concerned because this plan is based on the old code and the old assessment and the old buffers. … I’m just very, very concerned that you’re building on a lake.”

TRAFFIC TROUBLES

Balevich said the parking requirements for a veterinarian clinic are one space per 300 square feet. Thus, this site would require a minimum of 14 spaces. The applicant is proposing 20 spaces with one handicap space.

Balevich said Orange County’s Transportation Planning Division

wetlands.

also has reviewed the request and concluded the proposed project is expected to generate 90 net daily trips and 13 net weekday p.m. peak hour trips to the adjacent roadway.

A 210-foot northbound left-turn lane will be required at the project entrance.

In addition, a traffic study may be required of the applicant prior to obtaining an approved capacity encumbrance letter and building permit. The project will be subject to review and approval under capacity constraints of the county’s Transportation Concurrency Management System.

Residents expressed concerns with the impact the development would have on traffic and safety being in such close proximity to the school. They also said they do not need another veterinary clinic with all the ones that exist already in the area and they do not want commercial property in a residential area.

“I am also very concerned about safety,” Wilson said. “No. 1 for me are the children. … I’m asking you just to listen to the concerns of the neighbors here.”

After much feedback from residents, the applicant decided to request to postpone the BZA case and re-evaluate the plans.

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

Trombitas

CHURCH OF GOD

Ocoee Church of God

Pastor Graham Chancey 1105 N. Lakewood Ave.,Ocoee (407) 656-8011

EPISCOPAL Church of the Messiah 241 N. Main St., Winter Garden Services: 8, 9:30, & 11 AM,

9:30AM 11:00AM 6:00PM

STARKE LAKE BAPTIST CHURCH PO Box 520, 611 W Ave, Ocoee

Pastor Jeff Pritchard (407) 656-2351 www.starkelakebaptist.org

CHURCH OF GOD

OCOEE CHURCH OF GOD

Pastor Thomas Odom 1105 N. Lakewood Avenue, Ocoee 407-656-8011

EPISCOPAL CHURCH OF THE MESSIAH

241 N. Main, Winter Garden Services: 8, 9:30, & 11am, 7pm www.churchofthemessiah.com

METHODIST

FIRST

125 N.

Ave Winter Garden

Times 9:00 AM and 11:15 AM Phone – 407-656-1135 Web: fumcwg.org

UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST WINDERMERE UNION CHURCH 10710 Park Ridge-Gotha Rd. Windermere, FL 34786 407-876-2112 Worship times: 9:00am Adult Sunday School 10:00am Worship www.windermereunion.org

German bakery moves to larger downtown Winter Garden space

When

Reichardt opened

CHURCH DIRECTORY

Advertise your Services or Events on

Beneficial Breads German bakery in downtown Winter Garden in November 2022, the space he moved into was sufficient for his new business. It didn’t take him long to outgrow the roughly 500 square feet of space, though, and he sought a larger storefront, finding the perfect location on South Boyd Street.

With quadruple the size, Reichardt’s bakery now has room for bigger and better equipment, more employees, seating inside and outside, customer restrooms, and easier access for deliveries. He’s also just across the street from the Winter Garden Farmers Market, which has drawn curious customers into his shop.

The bakery started delivering bread and buns to local restaurants, including Pammie’s Sammies and Market to Table, as well as Isleworth Country Club and an exclusive executive club in Orlando. Reichardt hopes to sell at the farmers market again.

BENEFICIAL BREADS

119 S. Boyd St., Winter Garden

PHONE: (407) 990-2062

WEBSITE: Beneficialbreads.com

HOURS: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays; 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Sundays

that people will come in for a pastry and stay a while. He also has plans to start several gathering groups.

“For women, we’re going to have something called Kaffeeklatsch,” he said. “The plan is to have … anyone who is interested to learn the German culture, to come in and have their breakfast, lunch or pastry with other Europeans or Germans to learn about the culture and language and play board games, have coffee, have cake.”

Another gathering that caters mostly to men is the Stamkisch, and this includes food, beer and the German board game called Skat.

“German baking and the style of baking is very particular, and it takes time to teach and takes time for people to learn, and sometimes people aren’t dedicated to learning it,” he said. “Now, we have a better team after a year.”

There are seven employees, and Reichardt has plans to hire 10 more in the future.

“Beneficial Breads has the potential to become very special for a long period of time,” Reichardt said. “People of Winter Garden have been so supportive from Day 1 since we went to the market. … I feel like I’m from here.”

He pays that forward by handing out the occasional bread loaf to homeless people. Reichardt wants to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere in his bakery in hopes

Through the bakery, Reichardt has met many Germans who are now living in Central Florida. Furthermore, he has come in contact with several people who are from his hometown of Idar-Oberstein, Germany.

One is a 97-year-old woman who came to the United States in the 1940s.

“There are more of these ladies,” he said. “I grew up with these grandmothers. They gave me warm, fuzzy, I’m home. They talk that certain way, they behave that certain way. … They’re like, ‘I can’t believe you’re here. … It’s just like at home, and it’s how I remember.’”

A week later, he received a message from Stefan Wild, another former Idar-Oberstein resident who actually knew Reichardt’s grandfather and mother.

PHMSA Environmental Review Notice of Availability

In cooperation with the Lake Apopka Natural Gas District, Orange County, Florida, the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA), has prepared a Tier 2 Environmental Assessment (EA), as required by the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969, for the proposed replacement of approximately 13.13 miles of vintage steel and vintage plastic polyethylene (PE) pipe in multiple areas of the system with modern polyethylene pipe. PHMSA published a Tier 1 Nationwide EA for the Natural Gas Distribution Infrastructure Safety and Modernization Grant Program (NGDISM) on November 9, 2022. The stated purpose of NGDISM is for municipality or community owned utilities to repair, rehabilitate, or replace its natural gas distribution pipeline system or portions thereof or to acquire equipment to (1) reduce incidents and fatalities and (2) avoid economic losses by providing grant opportunities to municipality or community owned utilities.

The Tier 1 EA is available at https://www.phmsa.dot.gov/sites/phmsa. dot.gov/files/2023-07/Tier-1-PHMSA-2022-0123-0001.pdf. The Tier 2 EA is available for review and comment on the web at https://www.phmsa. dot.gov/about-phmsa/working-phmsa/grants/pipeline/tier-2-site-specificenvironmental-documents and a copy is available at Lake Apopka Natural Gas District, 1320 Winter Garden Vineland Road, Winter Garden, FL 34787.

Please submit all comments to: PHMSABILGrantNEPAComments@ dot.gov and reference NGDISM-FY22-EA-2023-20 in your response. Pursuant to the National Historic Preservation Act, PHMSA has issued a No Historic Properties Affected finding which is available for review in the Tier 2 EA. Comments on the Tier 2 EA are due by March 5, 2024.

Amy Quesinberry

Colin Reichardt, center, is thrilled to see continued success at his German bread business in downtown Winter Garden.

New Ocoee market pleases palates, delights shoppers

Tof Bill Breeze Park.

The free market showcased dozens of local vendors with handcrafted goods, unique products and artisan snacks, such as Sheri’s Sourdough n’ Such, Fruits of Your Labor LLC, Captain Crazy’s Nuts and Fine Snacks, Fake Bake by Carol, Atelie do Brigadeiro, Nita’s Pudding, and Soulshine in a Jar.

The event also featured live musical performances by local 15-year-old singer Francesca Tarantino, face painting, inflatable games and more.

— ANNABELLE SIKES

Jonah, Nina, Aubree and Wesley Curtis attended the first Ocoee Community Market together as a family.

Meghann Davis, known as MeghannsWraps on Etsy, shared her love for creating handmade bracelets and anklets.

Amy Ellerbe, from Soulshine in a Jar, showed off her homemade jam and jelly made with a twist.

Above: Attendees enjoyed a photo booth courtesy of It’s A Party at the event.

Right: Francesca Tarantino, 15, attracted attendees to the Ocoee Lakeshore Center with her serine voice and guitar skills.

Two homes sell for $1,895,000

Two homes topped all sales in West Orange and Southwest Orange from Jan. 27 to Feb. 2.

In Windermere, the home at 9012 Pinnacle Circle sold Jan. 31, for $1,895,000. Built in 2019, it has four bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths and 3,585 square feet. Days on market: 82. The sellers were represented by Chris Christensen, Compass Florida LLC.

In Winter Garden, the home at 16611 Broadwater Ave. sold Jan. 31, for $1,895,000. Built in 2016, it has seven bedrooms, seven-and-one-half baths and 5,446 square feet. Days on market: 67. The sellers were represented by Ron Ziolkowski, RE/MAX Prime Properties.

These are the highest-selling homes in each community in West Orange.

DR. PHILLIPS BAY HILL

The home at 6101 Dartmoor Court, Orlando, sold Jan. 31, for $1,665,000. Built in 1966, it has four bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 3,516 square feet. Days on market: 39.

The home at 6113 Cheshire Lane, Orlando, sold Jan. 31, for $729,900. Built in 1969, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,146 square feet. Days on market: Five.

BRENTWOOD CLUB

The home at 9785 Camberley Circle, Orlando, sold Jan. 31, for $980,000. Built in 1991, it has five bedrooms, four baths and 3,572 square feet. Days on market: 35.

DELLAGIO

The home at 8431 Via Vittoria Way, Orlando, sold Feb. 2, for $1,250,000. Built in 2020, it has three bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 3,235 square feet. Days on market: 54.

DIAMOND COVE

The home at 8200 Gemstone Court, Orlando, sold Jan. 31, for $835,000. Built in 1996, it has five bedrooms, four baths and 3,264 square feet. Days on market: 15.

MIRABELLA AT VIZCAYA

The home at 8137 Via Rosa, Orlando, sold Jan. 31, for $1,500,000. Built in 2004, it has five bedrooms, five baths and 4,311 square feet. Days on market: 49.

SAND LAKE POINT

The home at 10319 Pointview Court, Orlando, sold Jan. 29, for $710,000. Built in 1994, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,800 square feet. Days on market: Four.

VISTA CAY

The condo at 4840 Cayview Ave., No. 202, Orlando, sold Jan. 30, for $680,000. Built in 2007, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,001 square feet of living area. Days on market: 41.

HORIZON WEST

HIGHLAND RIDGE

The home at 14355 Braemar St., Winter Garden, sold Jan. 29, for $557,475. Built in 2023, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,088 square feet. Days on market: 97.

INDEPENDENCE

The home at 6749 Cultivation Way, Winter Garden, sold Feb. 2, for $605,000. Built in 2005, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 3,145 square feet. Days on market: Two.

ISLES OF LAKE HANCOCK

The home at 7793 Freestyle Lane, Winter Garden, sold Feb. 1, for $1,485,000. Built in 2015, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 3,326 square feet.

LAKESIDE AT HAMLIN

The home at 5031 Lake Hamlin Trail, Winter Garden, sold Jan. 29, for $575,000. Built in 2023, it has three bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 2,469 square feet of living area. Days on market: 127.

NORTHLAKE AT OVATION

The home at 17242 Lake Star Road, Winter Garden, sold Jan. 29, for $875,639. Built in 2023, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 3,101 square feet of living area.

STILLWATER CROSSINGS

The home at 4301 Blue Major Drive, Windermere, sold Feb. 2, for $740,000. Built in 2014, it has five bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths and 3,688 square feet. Days on market: Four.

SUMMERLAKE

The home at 14037 Snowy Owl Lane, Winter Garden, sold Jan. 29, for $700,000. Built in 2016, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,814 square feet. Days on market: 14.

WATERLEIGH

The home at 11066 Sound Shore Drive, Winter Garden, sold Jan. 30, for $534,740. Built in 2023, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,216 square feet. Days on market: 72.

WATERMARK

The home at 15024 Stuttgart Alley, Winter Garden, sold Feb. 1, for $550,000. Built in 2020, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,079 square feet. Days on market: 16.

OCOEE

ARDEN PARK NORTH

The home at 1772 Southern Red Oak Court, Ocoee, sold Feb. 1, for $605,000. Built in 2020, it has five bedrooms, three baths and 3,665 square feet of living area. Days on market: 34.

HAMMOCKS

The home at 805 Rosemist Court, Ocoee, sold Jan. 31, for $490,000. Built in 1991, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,176 square feet of living area. Days on market: Four.

JOHIO GLEN SUBDIVISION

The home at 2503 Dovetail Drive, Ocoee, sold Jan. 31, for $450,000. Built in 1990, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 1,927 square feet.

PRAIRIE LAKE VILLAGE

The home at 2453 Sweet Oak St., Ocoee, sold Feb. 2, for $474,900. Built in 1998, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,383 square feet. Days on market: 34.

SILVER BEND

The home at 2047 Cassingham Circle, Ocoee, sold Jan. 31, for $370,000. Built in 1992, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,406 square feet. Days on market: 82.

WILLOWS ON THE LAKE

The home at 519 Herring Gull Court, Ocoee, sold Jan. 30, for $600,000. Built in 2003, it has five bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 3,735 square feet. Days on market: 74.

WYNWOOD

The home at 2138 Greenwood Oak Drive, Ocoee, sold Jan. 30, for $553,990. Built in 2023, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,108 square feet. Days on market: 86.

SOUTHWEST ORANGE

ARLINGTON BAY

The home at 9234 Edenshire Circle, Orlando, sold Jan. 31, for $510,000. Built in 2006, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,468 square feet. Days on market: 124.

WINDERMERE

LAKE DOWN CREST

The home at 9012 Pinnacle Circle, Windermere, sold Jan. 31, for $1,895,000. Built in 2019, it has four bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths and 3,585 square feet. Days on market: 82.

TOWN OF WINDERMERE

The home at 202 E. Fifth Ave., Windermere, sold Feb. 1, for $815,000. Built in 1979, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,537 square feet. Days on market: 97.

WINTER GARDEN

30 NORTH PARK

The townhouse at 40 N. Park Ave., Winter Garden, sold Jan. 30, for $1,674,964. Built in 2021, it has four bedrooms, three baths, two halfbaths and 3,782 square feet. Days on market: 117.

AMBERLEIGH

The home at 361 Lake Amberleigh Drive, Winter Garden, sold Jan. 29, for $550,000. Built in 2003, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,159 square feet. Days on market: 26.

BLACK LAKE PARK

The home at 738 Reflections Lane, Winter Garden, sold Feb. 2, for $701,000. Built in 2008, it has five bedrooms, four baths, two halfbaths and 3,904 square feet. Days on market: 140.

CANOPY OAKS

The home at 737 Canopy Estates Drive, Winter Garden, sold Jan. 30, for $1,250,000. Built in 2017, it has four bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths and 3,624 square feet. Days on market: 51.

DEL WEBB OASIS

The home at 15121 Canopy Cover Drive, Winter Garden, sold Jan. 29, for $752,270. Built in 2024, it has two bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,114 square feet. Days on market: Six.

DOWNTOWN WINTER GARDEN

The home at 320 S. Main St., Winter Garden, sold Jan. 31, for $650,000. Built in 2023, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,850 square feet. Days on market: 239.

LAKE COVE POINTE

The home at 424 Lone Heron Way, Winter Garden, sold Jan. 31, for $669,000. Built in 2012, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,465 square feet of living area. Days on market: Six.

LAKEVIEW PRESERVE

The home at 4540 Gliding Wave St., Winter Garden, Lake County, sold Feb. 2, for $590,000. Built in 2022, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,144 square feet. Days on market: 68.

ROPER RESERVE

The home at 420 Wrangler Road, Winter Garden, sold Feb. 2, for $915,000. Built in 2017, it has five bedrooms, four baths and 3,775 square feet. Days on market: 69.

STONE CREEK

The home at 15235 Starleigh Road, Winter Garden, sold Jan. 30, for $437,000. Built in 2002, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,361 square feet. D

STONEYBROOK WEST

The home at 14035 Fox Glove St., Winter Garden, sold Feb. 2, for $725,000. Built in 2002, it has five bedrooms, three baths and 3,874 square feet. Days on market: 86.

The home at 2420 Balforn Tower Way, Winter Garden, sold Jan. 31, for $540,000. Built in 2008, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,572 square feet. Days on market: 12.

TWINWATERS

The home at 16611 Broadwater Ave., Winter Garden, sold Jan. 31, for $1,895,000. Built in 2016, it has seven bedrooms, seven-and-one-half baths and 5,446 square feet. Days on market: 67.

WINTERMERE POINTE

The home at 2647 Grove View Drive, Winter Garden, sold Jan. 31, for $740,000. Built in 2002, it has five bedrooms, three baths and 3,309 square feet. Days on market: 24.

Celebrity Cipher cryptograms are created from quotations by famous people, past and present. Each letter in the cipher stands for another.

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© 2023 NEA, Inc.

Courtesy photo

The home at 16611 Broadwater Ave., Winter Garden, sold Jan. 31, for $1,895,000. It was the largest transaction in Winter Garden from Jan. 27 to Feb. 2. The sellers were represented by Ron Ziolkowski, RE/MAX Prime Properties.

Victor Quintero

The home at 9012 Pinnacle Circle, Windermere, sold Jan. 31, for $1,895,000. This newly construct home is situated on a 1-acre lot in the gated community of Lake Down Crest. The sellers were represented by Chris Christensen, Compass Florida LLC.

SELL IT! by Marshal Herrmann, edited by Jeff Chen

By Luis Campos

SPORTS

HIGH 5

1

As the boys basketball regular season comes to a close, two of the area’s top players — Windermere High’s Chalier Torres and Ocoee High’s Justynn Thomas — both eclipsed the 1,000-careerpoints mark last week.

For Torres, a three-year varsity player for the Wolverines (17-7), his milestone moment came at home when the senior hit a three-pointer against Ocoee in a 75-45 win. Torres will receive a commemorative ball to celebrate the accomplishment at Windermere’s next game.

On the next night, at the end of a back-to-back for the Knights (17-8), Thomas surpassed the mark in a 64-56 win over Wekiva High. Along with Grant Riller, Thomas became the second player in program history to reach 1,000 points.

2

The FHSAA has announced its tentative non-football classifications for each fall sport for the 2024 and 2025 seasons.

In girls volleyball, Ocoee, West Orange High and Windermere will play together in Class 7A, District 5, while Dr. Phillips High and Olympia will be in 7A, District 6. Horizon High and Lake Buena Vista High girls volleyball will be together in Class 6A, District 4. The First Academy and Foundation Academy will be in Class 2A, District 4 together.

The full classification list for each fall sport — which includes boys and girls swimming, bowling, golf and cross country — can be found on FHSAA.com

3

The First Academy released its football schedule for the 2024 season, and it is littered with high-level opponents from across the state and beyond.

To open the season, the Royals will travel to Tennessee to take on prep powerhouse Limpcomb Academy — who were famously coached by Super Bowl champion quarterback and television personality Trent Dilfer before he became the UAB coach.

Following that tough opening test, TFA will travel to local power Edgewater High in Week 2, host Rabun Gap (Georgia) in Week 7 and Seminole High in Week 9, before it welcomes rival Foundation Academy in Week 10

4

According to her social media outlets, Windermere Prep girls soccer player Alyssa Parsons, who has been called up by the U.S. Women’s Youth National Team for a camp, has been named to the United States Youth Soccer 2008 Girls National Team. The sophomore attacker has been on fire this season for the Lakers, scoring 39 goals and dishing out five assists in her first season for Windermere Prep, after transferring from Apopka High

5

Both West Orange and Foundation Academy have won the FHSAA state cheerleading championships in their respective categories. With a score of 83.80, the Warriors won the FHSAA Class 2A small-division state crown, while the Lions with a score of 90.10 won its third consecutive Class 1A large nontumbling state title — which comes on the back of its fifth consecutive regional title

All Out, All 32

Despite losing two of its expected top returning players to transfers, Olympia has doubled down on effort and talent to fuel its postseason run.

SAM ALBUQUERQUE SPORTS EDITOR

In sports, as in life, there are always variables you can’t control. You can’t control how tall you are, how talented the other team is or what other people decide to do.

What you can control is your effort.

That’s what Olympia High boys basketball coach Rob Gordon preaches daily to his team. Go 100%, 100% of the time. Or as it was plastered on Gordon’s shirt in practice on Monday, Feb. 5, Titan Time: All Out, All 32 — meaning the Titans’ go all out for all 32 minutes of the game.

“As an individual, and as a team, I feel like we need to just play hard and continue to learn how hard we have to go each time out on the court to win,” Titans guard Kaiden White said. “It takes a different level of effort to win it all.”

SAM ALBUQUERQUE SPORTS EDITOR

Editor’s Note: Statistics, records and scheduling information were compiled from online resources, social-media outlets or sent in by coaches.

The FHSAA soccer state championship tournaments are officially underway, and the West Orange and Southwest Orange communities had 10 total boys and girls teams across four of the state’s six classifications make the playoffs.

With the Class 2A and 3A tournaments having already kicked off Tuesday, Feb. 6, after press time and the 5A, 6A and 7A classes getting started Feb. 13, there’s a lot of high-level soccer being played in the community.

To get the area’s soccer fans ready for the postseason, here’s a quick overview of each playoff team’s season so far and what the playoffs will look like for them.

SCORE FIRST TO PASS FIRST

The senior is the perfect example of focusing on what you can control.

“We actually lost who we thought would be our starting point guard, Cam Miles, a week before practices started this year, to a high-level prep school in Arizona, AZ Compass,” Gordon said. “So, when we lost Cam, it really put us in a tough situation.”

That’s where White came in.

“We had to ask a player, who wasn’t adept at playing the point guard position, to fill that spot for us,” Gordon said. “Kaiden’s done a great job of stepping into that role and managing the duties of the position, even though he’s more of a scoring guard.”

“It was a big challenge for me to adapt to the position and figure out how to play on the ball more and turn from a more score-first player into a pass-first player,” White said. “But I feel like, as we have gone through the season, I’ve gotten used to the role and

am more than ready for the playoffs.” White excelled in his new role. In 25 games this season, he has led the Titans in assists with an average of four a game and is second in scoring with 12.6 points an outing. A lot of the reason why he’s been so successful has to do with his taking advantage of the opportunity to improve his skillset and mentality.

BOYS CLASS 7A, DISTRICT 3 OCOEE (13-5-3)

Led by attackers Jacob Munoz and Alexis Barrajas — who combined to score 27 goals and assist 11 more — and a stellar defensive structure, the Knights were one of the most balanced teams in the area, scoring 48 goals and only allowing half that amount over their 21 games. Ocoee beat a few quality opponents — including a 1-0 victory against Spruce Creek (13-8-2), a 3-2 win over Boone (11-5-1) and a pair of wins versus West Port (15-3) — on its way to winning the West Metro Conference championship over Horizon (11-3-4).

POSTSEASON

Legacy Charter football’s Vaughn Scusa has announced his commitment to play at Berry College. Page 2B.

THE WEEK

Vaughn Scusa

After just one season of playing football — he played soccer for most of his life — Legacy Charter football’s Vaughn Scusa became a twoway star for the Eagles in his first and last season of high school football. Despite the limited experience on the gridiron, the free safety and wide receiver showed enough to earn himself a spot on the Berry College football roster. Scusa announced his commitment to the fivetime Southern Athletic Association champions on his social media.

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

It is very exciting, and I feel very honored to receive this. Thank you for the opportunity!

What do you like the most about playing football?

I like the physicality it takes and how it grows your body and mind together.

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned from football?

It is important to not take anything for granted. I tore my ACL in the fifth game of this past season, but God has blessed me with another chance to play in college.

Who is your favorite football player and why?

Tyreek Hill (because of) his explosiveness and speed.

Favorite football memory?

Rainy practices.

What is your go-to pregame meal?

Chicken and potatoes.

What’s your go-to pregame hype song?

“California Girls.”

What is your favorite nonfootball hobby?

Dirt bike racing.

What is your favorite subject in school?

Math, because I like to problemsolve.

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

A friend, water and a football. If I’m going to die, I want to have fun first.

What is your favorite movie?

The Harry Potter (movies), because I used to watch them with my sister, so it is very nostalgic for me.

THE BASICS

Age: 17 Sport: Football Grade: 2024 School: Legacy Charter

If you could go back in time to a specific period in history, when and where would you go? I would go back to 2010. I feel like it was a relatively peaceful time, but maybe that was just because I was younger and less aware.

Looking back, what piece of advice would you give your younger self? Spend more time doing what I love.

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

Who is your favorite superhero?

Thor, because he seems like a pretty cool dude.

Who is your favorite supervillain?

Loki, because he is really funny and smart.

If you could have any superpower, what would it be? Flying, because I could travel anywhere.

If you could travel to three places in the world, where would you go?

Tokyo and Dubai, because I want to see and experience those cities. Hawaii, because it looks really pretty.

If you could be an animal for a day, which one would you be? A bird, because I want to fly.

What is your most controversial food take? Popcorn is disgusting.

Courtesy of Windermere Preparatory School

Teams seek state titles

CLASS 2A, DISTRICT 6

— SAM ALBUQUERQUE

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1B

WEST ORANGE (10-4-1)

After graduating its top scorer — Gabriel Skurski, who scored 22 goals — from the 2022-23 team that finished with a 14-2-1 record and won districts, the Warriors again finished atop its district.

Led by top playmaker — senior midfielder Finlay Prain and his 13 goals — West Orange managed to beat various top teams this season, including a 2-1 win at Ocoee, a 1-0 victory at Horizon and topping Lake Brantley (11-5-1) in the district semis, 2-0.

POSTSEASON OUTLOOK

District Tournament Result: Won the district championship. Beat Ocoee in the finals, 1-1 (4-2 PKs).

FHSAA State Championship Playoffs Seed: No. 3

Regional Quarterfinals Matchup:

Hosts No. 6 West Port (15-3) at 7 p.m. Feb. 13

CLASS 7A, DISTRICT 5

OLYMPIA (11-7-1)

Under first-year head coach, Raymond Bornacelli, the Titans bounced back from a 3-10-4 record in 2022-23 and finished this season as the district runners-up.

Led by its top scorer Guilherme Valente, who has bagged 13 goals, and top playmaker Ali Wahab, who dished out 11 assists, Olympia beat quality opposition this season, including a 2-0 win over Tohopekaliga (12-6), two wins over Ocoee and a 3-2 victory over Windermere (131-1) for a spot in the district final.

POSTSEASON OUTLOOK

District Tournament Result: Lost in finals to Lake Nona, 6-1.

FHSAA State Championship Playoffs Seed: No. 7

Regional Quarterfinals Matchup:

At No. 2 Windermere (13-1-1) at 7 p.m. Feb. 13

WINDERMERE (13-1-1)

Former Olympia coach Lou Romao’s first season in charge saw the Wolverines finish the regular season undefeated — and with a goal differential of +58.

Senior winger Jose Moyetones led the Windermere attack with 19 goals and 19 assists on the Wolverines’ way to beating top teams such as West Orange twice, plus Lake Brantley and Olympia on the road.

POSTSEASON OUTLOOK

District Tournament Result: Lost in semifinals to Olympia, 3-2.

FHSAA State Championship Playoffs Seed: No. 2

Regional Quarterfinals Matchup:

Hosts No. 7 Olympia (11-7-1) at 7 p.m. Feb. 13

CLASS 5A, DISTRICT 6 HORIZON (11-3-4)

After graduating 17 seniors from its 2022-23 team that finished with a 14-4-4 record and won the district in its second year, Horizon came back strong again and claimed its second-consecutive district title. Led by attackers Karson Vazquez and Ricardo Davila, the Hawks advanced to the West Metro Conference championship game after getting past Windermere in penalty kicks. Horizon also beat Gateway (13-4-1) in the district title game.

POSTSEASON OUTLOOK District Tournament Result: Won the district championship. Beat Gateway in the finals, 3-2.

FHSAA State Championship Playoffs Seed: No. 2 Regional Quarterfinals Matchup: Hosts Wesley Chapel (11-7-2) at 7 p.m. Feb. 13

LAKE BUENA VISTA (9-7)

Despite being just two games over .500, the Vipers showed the capability of playing with some of the area’s best teams — see their wins over West Orange and at Olympia. LBV’s roster is led by junior attackers Rayan Daoudi and Camilo Gaitan, who have combined to score 17 goals this season.

POSTSEASON OUTLOOK

District Tournament Result: Lost in semifinals to Gateway, 4-1. FHSAA State Championship Playoffs Seed: No. 8

Regional Quarterfinals Matchup: At No. 1 Jesuit (17-1-4) at 7 p.m. Feb.

13

CLASS 3A, DISTRICT 5

WINDERMERE PREP (13-3-1)

With only three seniors on its roster, the Lakers’ present and future look bright on the pitch. Led by junior attacker Angelo Arrivillaga and sophomore Nicolas Parra, who combined to score 24 goals and dish out 14 assists, Windermere Prep was able to finish as district runner-up. On the way to the regional quarterfinals, the Lakers topped The First Academy (10-5-2) on the road, 2-1, won at Orangewood Christian (12-3-1), 3-1 and beat Four Corners (12-3-1), 2-1.

POSTSEASON OUTLOOK

District Tournament Result: Lost in finals to Lake Highland Prep, 2-0.

FHSAA State Championship Playoffs Seed: No. 4

Regional Quarterfinals Matchup: Faced No. 5 Berkeley Prep (6-6-4) Feb. 6

Regional Semifinals Matchup: Results from quarterfinal games not available by press time Tuesday, Feb. 6.

FOUNDATION ACADEMY (10-5)

The Lions were road warriors this season, only losing once — 4-1 to Orangewood Christian — and winning five away from their home pitch. Led by junior attacker Will Prunty, who scored nine goals and assisted two, Foundation finished as district runner-ups.

POSTSEASON OUTLOOK

District Tournament Result: Lost in finals to Orangewood Christian, 3-1.

FHSAA State Championship Playoffs Seed: No. 3

Regional Quarterfinals Matchup: Faced No. 6 Foundation Christian Academy (9-3) Feb. 6

Regional Semifinals Matchup: Results from quarterfinal games not available by press time Tuesday, Feb. 6.

GIRLS CLASS 5A, DISTRICT 6

HORIZON (12-3-1)

With a stifling defense that only allowed a total of 16 goals in their 16 games and racked up six clean sheets, the Lady Hawks finished district play as runners-up to a great Auburndale (12-2-3) team. The Hawks are led by senior Aida Bell, junior Grace Nichols and sophomore Claudia Rodriguez Medina — who combined for 32 goal contributions.

POSTSEASON OUTLOOK

District Tournament Result: Lost in finals to Auburndale, 3-1.

FHSAA State Championship Playoffs Seed: No. 4

Regional Quarterfinals Matchup: Hosts Lake Wales (12-4-1) at 5 p.m. Feb. 13

CLASS 3A, DISTRICT 5

WINDERMERE PREP (7-6-2)

With Apopka High transfer forward Alyssa Parsons, a United States Women’s Youth National Team selection, leading the attacking line and senior Camila Barni slotting in passes for the streaking forward, the Lakers’ duo has been deadly this season, combining for 61 goalcontributions. Despite playing a rigorous schedule, Windermere Prep has managed to have a +20 goal differential over its 15-game schedule, thanks to its proven ability to score goals in bunches — scoring three or more goals in seven games.

POSTSEASON OUTLOOK District Tournament Result: Lost in semifinals to Lake Highland Prep, 6-0.

FHSAA State Championship Playoffs Seed: No. 6

Regional Quarterfinals Matchup: Faced No. 3 Berkeley Prep (14-4)

Feb. 6

Regional Semifinals Matchup: Results from quarterfinal games not available by press time Tuesday, Feb. 6.

West Orange High bests Ocoee, 42-37

The Ocoee High girls basketball team hosted rival West Orange High for not only its final regular-season game of the year but also for its Senior Night. The Knights (18-5) celebrated eight seniors at the Friday, Feb. 2, game.

Despite the celebrations pregame for Ocoee, it was the Warriors (1211) who celebrated postgame with a 42-37 win. Senior guard Zoe Calvez led the way for West Orange making vital plays late in the game on both sides of the floor, including making a steal on one end and finishing at the rim on the other to make it a two-possession game with 45 seconds left to play.

SAM ALBUQUERQUE

Olympia basketball team all-in for run at states

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1B

“With those guys leaving, it added fuel to us as a team to show that we could step up into those roles because those were key pieces for this team that we (were) relying on. But I feel like we all stepped up,” White said. “Focusing on limiting turnovers as the point guard was the area I’ve grown the most. … I also feel like I’m naturally adapting better to the basketball situation, because of how the role I’m playing makes me think about the game.”

BECOMING A TEAM

Beyond White adjusting to his new role, this Olympia group faced another form of adversity in having to gel what was essentially a new roster.

Along with Miles, Carter McDole also switched schools, and last year’s seniors Jizzle James, the leading scorer from 2023, Kevins Charles and Charles Outlaw all graduated, meaning five of Olympia’s top seven contributors from a 26-3 team weren’t returning.

“With those guys gone and these new guys coming in, it’s been an opportunity for them to step up and play a bigger role in this team and really come into their own,” Gordon said.

Thanks to their attitude and effort, the 2023-24 Titans are in prime position to make a deep postseason run.

“We have a whole new group of guys this season, with only two returning players (who) were in the rotation last year,” Gordon said. “So, what’s been fun this season has been their ability to receive coaching. Most of the season I’ve been able to do my job, and that’s because the guys have been willing to be coached

“We have four new guys, so it’s been kind of a challenge to get those new guys with the couple of returning guys to kind of gel together and understand the standards of our pro-

leticism and the ability to create space against any defender with his superb handle — his team-leading 16.2 points a game are proof of his skill set and another justification for the offers he’s earned from the likes of Missouri, Oklahoma State, Tennessee and plenty others.

TIME TO EAT

With the talent and cohesion to match up with any team in the state, Olympia has what it takes to make a lot of noise this postseason.

Their coach agrees but said his team needs to do one thing to accomplish that goal: Get ready to eat.

“If we’re not satisfied with what we’ve done so far, we’re going to be fine,” he said. “We’re going to be in the regional tournament, right now, as the two-seed behind Oak Ridge High, and that’s fine. But we just need to not be satisfied with what we’ve done so far, and if we can hit the reset button right now — because right now it’s a brand new season — and really get hungry, I think we’ll be OK.”

Gordon’s players know that not being satisfied with their accomplishments means continuing to sweat the details.

gram,” he said. “But we’ve somehow figured out how to make it work … and that is what has led to our success so far this year.”

NEED A BUCKET? CALL KAM

With White taking the reins at point guard, Vophcy Prophete serving as his backcourt mate and floor stretcher, big man Lucca Reinehr playmaking from the elbow, along with Sean Owens and Deshawn Tolbert serving as the all-important glue guys, Gordon has molded this talented roster into a legitimate team.

“This year’s team … is more well-

rounded than last year’s in terms of their skills, and actually over the whole group of guys, there’s probably more talent on this year’s team,” Gordon said.

The only thing he’s missing is a certified bucket-getter — especially when you consider the 22.7 points a game James took to Cincinnati.

“I don’t think you can replace a guy like Jizzle James,” Gordon said. “He’s almost irreplaceable … and not so much because of the scoring, but more the standard of work ethic that he brought to the program. It was unparalleled.”

But with the program’s standardbearing responsibilities passed down to Owens, Tolbert, Prophete and White, this iteration of the Titans still was missing the guy who could get you a basket when you need it most. That’s where transfer wing Kameren Wright answers the call. “I just come in and do what I do best — play ball,” Wright said. “I’ve just been putting my head down and not really worrying about what they’ve had here in the past. I just do my own thing.”

The full-fledged three-level scorer has a sweet jumper, elite-level ath-

“The biggest thing for us is continuing to be accountable, to do the little things on and off the court (such as) watch film, get extra shots up and supporting and helping each other. Each of us needs to do our part to help the team,” Prophete said.

Wright agreed.

“Coach really emphasizes minimizing mistakes and focuses on getting the little details right,” he said. “I feel like that’s what our team needs to focus on most. We also need to keep getting after it at practice. … We need to go 100%, all the time, and keep doing what we can to put our teammates, and put the team in the best position to win.”

Senior guard Kaiden White has done more than lead the Titans in assists, he’s learned a whole new position to help Olympia win games.

Photos by Sam Albuquerque

Four-star wing Kameren Wright is the missing piece the Titans needed to fill out its 2023-24 roster.

Senior Vophcy Prophete’s deep shooting range is vital to Olympia’s offense, as he forces defenses to stretch to their breaking point when trying to slow the Titans down.

With 16.5 points per game, Micah Hannah has been the Knights’ leading scorer this season.

Ocoee girls basketball coach Marcus Spencer always gets his team ready to play hard.

West Orange coach Vincent Chance had his team ready to play in a tough environment.

West Orange’s Zoe Calvez, an LSU softball signee, is the Warriors’ top girls basketball player, as well.

INFLUENCER OF THE WEEK

DEPUTY STEVEN’S BERTRAND HAMLIN ELEMENTARY

Steven’s Bertrand is the school resource officer at Hamlin Elementary School through the Orange County Sheriff’s Office. His job duties are to ensure the safety of visitors, teachers, staff, parents and, most importantly, the children, while on school campus; to interact with all on campus; and to teach kids about the importance of law enforcement.

“Deputy Bertrand is an integral part of the Hamlin Elementary team,” Principal Angela MurphyOsborne said. “His title might be school resource officer, but he does so much more. Besides keeping all our students and staff safe, Deputy Bertrand can be found helping with the car line during arrival and dismissal. He helps in the cafeteria every day, from helping distribute food to monitoring student behavior. He also helps to mentor students and is a positive role model for all the children at our school. Deputy Bertrand comes to work every day with a positive attitude and is always ready to greet our students with a smile. We are lucky to have such a trustworthy and dedicated resource officer at our Hamlin!”

What brought you to your school?

I always wanted to work at an elementary school to make a difference with the young children I may come across. Being this was a new school, it was the perfect opportunity to go there and start that journey of being an impactful and positive role model for them.

What do you love most about your school?

The things I love most about my school is the staff, principals, parents and, most importantly, the children’s interaction I have on a daily basis that created this

REPORT CARD

POSITION: School resource officer

TIME AT SCHOOL: Two years; an SRO and Orange County deputy with Orange County Public Schools since 2016

school to be a family, fun, educational-friendly environment for all.

What is the most rewarding part of your job? The most rewarding part of my job is being able to interact with everyone that steps foot on my campus. Ensuring the staff, visitors and children that safety is my No. 1 priority.

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

I’m not sure what would I be if I (weren’t) in this profession, because I’ve always wanted to be in law enforcement. I would have done whatever it takes to be part of this great profession.

Who influences you?

Everyone influences me — especially my faith in God — knowing whatever I do, He will guide me and be there with me in spirit.

Who was your favorite teacher when you were in school? Why?

The SAFE coordinator, Charlie Grace, from Evans High School. He was always a positive role model for me and always guided me through the tough times during my time in high school.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

In my spare time, I love to do weightlifting and play basketball.

What is your favorite children’s book and why?

I loved any books dealing with

some sort of teamwork involved. I’ve always believed teamwork can get you far ahead in life.

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

Not sure, because I’m really not a diner.

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

Being able to stop danger before it actually happens. Having the capabilities of doing that would definitely ensure a safe living environment for all.

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

Anything Gospel.

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

Chicken tenders or pizza. For snacks, Honey Buns.

What is your favorite holiday and why?

Christmas. Being able to see the joy on people faces after gifting them is very rewarding.

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

Emmanuel Joseph and Mizell Hart. They were always loyal and always were there when needed. Yes, I am still in touch with them.

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

At Evans High School, I was in Peer Mediation for all four years I attended there. I was named SAFE Student of the Year at Evans High.

— AMY QUESINBERRY

Tildenville Elementary proves science yields big-time fun

Tildenville Elementary School hosted its annual Science night Thursday, Feb. 1. Orlando Science Center staff brought multiple experiments to the school, and families stopped at each station for a different activity with OSC and several Tildenville teachers. Students dropped rocks, tested Martian soil, flew drones, measured the size of their hands, built skyscrapers, made marble tracks and more.

— AMY QUESINBERRY

Brazeal Arline concentrated on building a successful cube.

Students of all ages participated in the annual Science Night at Tildenville Elementary School.

Christopher Vallina helped students discover if their Martian soil samples could grow plants.

Margo and Lucas Logan reacted to their Ozobot tracing the lines they drew.

BRAINFOOD

The Observer answers kids’ burning curiosities.

Raising the barre I Michael Eng // Editor and Publisher

As we celebrate Black History Month, in this edition of Brain Food, we’re going to take a look at the amazing contributions black Americans have made in the world of dance. More specifically, we celebrate the Dance Theatre of Harlem. This theater is known as the oldest black classical ballet company, and it also owns and operates a school for children from ages 3 to 18.

ARTHUR MITCHELL

Arthur Mitchell was the first African American dancer with the New York City Ballet. He joined the ballet in 1955 and one year later was promoted to principal dance. He stayed with the company until 1966.

Then, after the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr., in 1968, he was inspired to create a new ballet company to provide opportunities for children in the Harlem community. He used $25,000 of his own money and, together with partner Karel Shook, opened the company one year later. The company operated in the basement at Church of the Master and started with 30 children. Just two months later, that number

DANCE THEATRE OF HARLEM

Although it is known as the oldest black classical ballet company, the Dance Theatre of Harlem taught students of all ethnicities.

grew to 400! And then, two years later, the Dance Theatre of Harlem presented its first professional production at the New York Guggenheim Museum.

According to an article on the company’s website, Mitchell’s vision was for the space to be for “people who had been told, ‘You can’t do this’ — to give them a chance to do what they dreamed of doing.”

Ballerina Virginia Johnson was a founding member of the company, which grew quickly throughout the 1970s. In 1979, it toured all over the world with 46 different ballets!

The success continued throughout the 1980s. In the 1990s, the Dance Theatre of Harlem became the first American ballet company to perform in Russia after the fall of the Soviet Union.

In 2013, Johnson took over for Mitchell as the company’s artistic director. She led the com - pany until last year, when she retired. Robert Garland, resident choreographer and school director, took over.

THE SCHOOL Staying true to Mitchell’s vision of providing a place for children to learn ballet, the Dance Theatre of Harlem still operates a classical ballet school for children ages 18 months to 18.

In addition to classes throughout the year, the company also offers a Summer Intensive program.

Later, Mitchell moved the company into a garage at 466 W. 152nd St. — the same location that serves as the company headquarters today! In those early years, the company kept the garage door open while students practiced so people passing by could see what was happening.

Mitchell received many awards. He was recognized as a MacArthur Fellow and also received the U.S. National Medal of Arts and a Fletcher Foundation fellowship.

Mitchell died in 2018.

RECOMMENDED READING

NON-FICTION

n “Black Dance in America: A History Through its People” by James Haskins

n “A Child’s Introduction to Jazz: The Musicians, Culture, and Roots of the World’s Coolest Music” by Jabari Asim; illustrated by Jerrard K. Polk

FICTION

n “Ways to Build Dreams” by Renée Watson; illustrated by Andrew Grey

n “Kin: Rooted in Hope” by Carole Boston Weatherford; art by Jeffery Boston Weatherford

Cub Scout Pack 978 revs up excitement at Pinewood Derby

The Oakland-based Cub Scout Pack 978 hosted its annual Pinewood Derby event Saturday, Feb. 3, at Oakland Presbyterian Church. Attendees had their cars checked in and weighed before proceeding to enjoy pizza and a potluck-style lunch before the races.

The derby kicked off with the inaugural community race, in which local organizations took their shot at crafting a unique car. Participants this year included the Oakland Police Department, the town of Oakland, Tildenville Elementary School, the Oakland Nature Preserve and the Observer Media Group.

The scout’s race yielded the following results: Skylar Zimmerman, first (3.2014 average time); Landon Smith, second (3.2021); and Emmett Quain, third (3.2102).

More than 30 scouts participated this year.

The event concluded with the sibling and family race.

— ANNABELLE SIKES

More than 30 Cub Scouts participated in this year’s Pinewood Derby event.

Tildenville Elementary School, represented by Will Ramsey and his family, came away with second place in the community race.

Jennifer Hunt, managing director at the Oakland Nature Preserve, celebrated a third-place win in the community race with Sal Ramos, commissioner for the town of Oakland.

The Oakland Police Department took first place in the community race with its car equipped with flashing lights and a siren.

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