Local men traveled to Colorado to assist at a Christian dude ranch. SEE PAGE 3A.
OBSERVE MEMORIAL DAY IN WINDERMERE
The Rotary Club of Windermere is holding a Memorial Day observance at 10 a.m. Monday, May 27, at Windermere Town Hall, 520 Main St. U.S. Air Force Col. Tony Davit will deliver the message, the local Girl Scout Citrus Singers will perform the national anthem and other patriotic songs, and the Navy Lone Sailor Cadets will show the colors.
HELP PLACE FLAGS ON OAKLAND GRAVES
A former Oakland resident is returning to the town Monday, May 27, to celebrate Memorial Day by placing American flags on the graves of veterans at two cemeteries in the town. John Ward estimates there are 100 veteran gravesites in the cemeteries, and he is asking Oakland residents to join him in honoring them. Flags will be provided, and the event begins at 9 a.m. Volunteers will meet at the corner of West Sadler Avenue and South Walker Street.
At 10 a.m., Ward will make comments about the day and taps will be played. To participate or for more information, call Ward at (904) 891-0059.
Amber Autry has worked with the likes of Dave Attell, Tim Meadows and Fortune Feimster. She will make her Ocoee debut later this month. SEE PAGE 4A.
Courtesy photo
Hamlin residents oppose apartment proposal
ANNABELLE SIKES
NEWS EDITOR
Residents in the Horizon West area voiced disdain for a developer’s plans to build another apartment complex in Hamlin.
The community learned more about the project during a community meeting hosted by Orange County’s Planning Division Wednesday, May 15.
Applicant Kelly, Collins & Gentry Inc., representing Boyd Development, is proposing to construct 373 multifamily dwelling units on 18 acres and assign a second parcel as a future commercial development tract.
The property is located south of New Independence Parkway and east of Avalon Road.
The Horizon West Land Use of the property is Horizon West Town Center — Corporate Campus Mixed Use District, and the current zoning is Hamlin West Planned Development.
Orange County planner Tiffany Chen said a land-use amendment to add the subject prop-
erty to the Hamlin West PD-UNP was approved by the County Commission on May 2, 2023.
Chen explained the amendment designated the property as an addition to the CCMU district within the PD, with multi-family residential, townhome and non-residential (commercial/office) entitlements.
She said surrounding multi-family and townhome developments within the CCMU district have been approved recently. The current proposal is the remaining CCMU (nonflex) area to be considered.
The Station at Hamlin development plan includes multiple apartment building types, plus a clubhouse designed to look like an old train station.
COMMUNITY CONVERSATION
District 1 Commissioner Nicole Wilson spoke to residents at the meeting about private property rights and the entitlements for the property.
“I know there’s a lot of frustration with development patterns and the way things are coming online, but I want you all to know that every single thing that you tell me I try to relay back to applicants, to property owners, to developers and to our
divisions that create the code and the comprehensive plan,” she said. “When the entitlements were given out 12 years ago, this area was then promised for a certain kind of use, which means that when we come back now and try to negotiate or navigate this with what works best for you all; they’re not pulling anything new, but it still does require us to try to make sure we do it in the right way and at the right time. … I will take every chance I can get to utilize what tools I have to negotiate and work with the property owners for what I hear from my residents.”
Residents expressed issues with traffic — noting the infrastructure can’t handle the development that already has been done. Many said they do not want more apartment complexes, specifically.
“This area feels like it’s overwhelmingly residential,” one resident said. “I understand you’re welcome to do whatever you want to on there as long as it’s been approved, but if you look at the other side of Hamlin, there’s much smaller amounts of multi-family residential and much bigger amounts of commercial space.”
these people are living in these places yet. So, if we already have traffic problems, I mean, what is the solution to that?”
Scott Gentry, with the applicant team, said he believes once the property is built out that residents will begin to see the commercial contributions.
“It’s really disheartening to see,” another resident agreed. “We don’t want to become like MetroWest. … My other concern is the traffic. … None of
“Typically, single-family and multi-family come first, and then you have those users so the restaurants and everything else can come,” he said. “You just won’t get the quality users to come that you normally would (if you built the commercial first). … It takes time, but there’s some really cool stuff
we’re doing out here that you’ll see as we build it out. … We’re moving as fast as we can.”
The development plan currently is undergoing the county’s Technical Review Group for analysis. The proposal next will go before the Development Review Committee at a date not yet determined.
“We as residents see all of these individual projects being approved and developers each have their own thing going, and we kind of see a bad thing coming,” another resident said.
“We’re worried that at a certain point these things can’t be changed.”
Courtesy
The Station at Hamlin development plan includes multiple apartment building types, plus a clubhouse designed to look like an old train station.
RANCH HANDS
A group of men from West Orange traveled to Colorado to volunteer at Wind River Ranch, a Christian ranch for veterans and first responders.
AMY QUESINBERRY
COMMUNITY EDITOR
The men traveling from Winter Garden, Oakland, Windermere and Ocoee to Colorado earlier this month were met with snow flurries and temperatures in the teens. But these Florida “cowboys” pulled themselves up by their bootstraps, grabbed their tool belts and did whatever needed to be done at the Wind River Ranch dude ranch. To them, this chilly weather was minor compared to the elements in which some of the ranch’s summer guests have made a living as veterans and first responders.
Winter Garden resident Joel Johnson has led a group of volunteers for the last 11 years to the peaceful getaway spot in Tahosa Valley, near Estes Park, Colorado.
This Christian guest ranch resort serves as a vacation destination for hundreds of families and groups for 14 weeks each summer. But more important, it also serves as a place of healing for the men and women serving their communities and their country, for missionaries worldwide, and for women who have been rescued from trafficking situations.
They and their families are invited for a week of healing and, as Johnson calls it, “a little touch of this side of heaven.”
WEEKLONG RANCH HANDS
To prepare the ranch for its opening for Healing Warriors Week, the volunteers spruce up and make repairs to the entire property inside and outside.
“We’re mending fences, we’re cleaning saddles, we’re repairing cabins, whether it be piping grounds,
landscaping, maintenance on roofs, clearing trees that have fallen,” Johnson said. “There’s something to do every year.”
Felix Gonzalez, of Oakland, was on saddle duty, and he and about five others oiled more than 120 saddles and saddle bags in one day. Other volunteers were assigned the task of fixing electric bikes or replacing posts.
“Some have some real skill sets,” Johnson said. “And then there’s people like me who say, ‘What do you want me to push, shove or move?’”
This year, Johnson took 37 men on the weeklong mission; about a quarter of them are veterans, and many still are serving in police and fire capacities.
He has had as many as 52 accompany him for the week, and some return to volunteer for another week with their families, and others go back for their family vacation.
Johnson’s family is returning in August to serve a unit that was bombed in Afghanistan.
“We’re just going to love on them and serve them,” he said. “There’s a lot of healing still going on.”
The ranch has had an impact on Johnson’s entire family. His daughter has served two full summers, his son worked there for six weeks, his wife has served several times, and he goes out there three or four times a year.
LIFE-CHANGING TRIP
Johnson was introduced to Wind River Ranch 13 years ago when his family was attending a K-Life event and bid on a trip to the ranch in a silent auction. They won the bid — and an opportunity that would change their lives. They have been there multiple times each year since, and Johnson went back with seven local volun-
“I want to give back to those who have given and paid the ultimate sacrifice for our community and our country. That’s the least I can do.”
— Felix Gonzalez
teers 11 years ago after feeling the urge to give back to this ranch. This was Gonzalez’s first year volunteering after being asked by his best friend, Windermere resident John Fitzgibbon, who lost his son two years ago. First Lt. Evan Fitzgibbon, 23, was killed in 2022 during a U.S. Army Ranger School weatherinduced training exercise in Georgia.
WIND RIVER RANCH
Wind River Ranch is located seven miles south of Estes Park in what is known as the Tahosa Valley, situated at the base of Twin Sisters Mountain at an altitude of 9,200 feet.
The ranch property was originally homesteaded in the 1870s by Elkanah J. Lamb, an itinerant pastor and missionary from the Midwest. Lamb and his wife, Jane, used the property as a cattle ranch and a small dairy operation while he preached and ministered throughout the valley. Through the years, it transitioned from a working ranch to a guest ranch as it was sold several times and expanded. Don Anderson Ministries purchased the property in 1997 and continued the western tradition of Wind River Ranch but with an intentional, Christcentered focus. The current owners continue the ministry of the ranch.
He was a graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point and commissioned in May 2021. Fitzgibbon and his son had served as volunteers at the ranch. John and Cindy Fitzgibbon created the Gold Star Program at the ranch, and families who have lost a child in the military receive a grant to spend a week at the ranch. Three families will attend this year during Healing Warriors Week. This year and in past years, West Orange County “wranglers,” plus a few from Lake and Seminole counties, have included Johnson, Gonzalez, Fitzgibbon, Dave Ogden, Andy Jones, Tim Young, Kyle Johnson, Aaron Smith, Luis Salazar, Frankie Liz, Jack Garrity, Dan Ford, Mike Henkelman, Kevin Joyce, Shawn Carrol, Kenny Love, Jeff Stellinga, Jesse Stanley, Jadon Stanley, Rob Phillips, Robby Phillips, Bill Wagner and David Hill.
Men also travel from other states around the country to volunteer.
“We really had fun through,” Johnson said of this month’s trip. “It’s a great camaraderie of men, just stacking hands together with the ranch, getting it ready for people in need.”
“It was very honoring to be with this group of guys and see what Wind River is doing for first responders and veterans at the ranch,” Gonzalez said.
The volunteer work is something Johnson looks forward to each year.
“This has turned into a mission week itself even though that’s not how it started out,” he said. “Grown men serving something greater than themselves. Friends and strangers … become lifelong pals who remain in touch the rest of the year.”
Each night, Johnson asks a different person to share a story in their life, whether it be about loss, grief or any personal issue.
“It’s a camaraderie,” he said. “I keep returning because … it’s joyful in itself. You give, but you get in return. And we keep returning.”
After his first year, Gonzalez already is eager to return.
“For me, it was a way to honor Evan and a way to honor John, my best friend,” he said. “What I found is that for men, who share each night, it’s to understand that we all go through something, we’re all in it, and you get support from the men at the ranch.
“I want to give back to those who have given and paid the ultimate sacrifice for our community and our country,” Gonzalez said. “That’s the least I can do.”
The group gathered for its meals in this rustic cabin setting.
Above: Chaplain Andy Jones, left, Windermere Police Chief Dave Ogden and Aaron Smith.
Right: Jeff Stellinga, left, Joel Johnson, Felix Gonzalez and Tim Young.
Courtesy photos
Internationally touring comedian coming to Ocoee
ANNABELLE SIKES
NEWS EDITOR
Internationally touring stand-up
comedian Amber Autry is making her debut in Ocoee Thursday, May 30, at Island Touch Cafe.
The headliner from Nashville, Tennessee has worked with well-known comedians such as Dave Attell, Tim Meadows and Fortune Feimster.
In addition, her “Don’t Tell Comedy” special has garnered more than 270,000 views on YouTube, and she is the co-host of the hit podcast “I’m Fine, It’s Fine.”
The Ocoee show will be about 90 minutes long and feature mature content, including explicit language, similar to an R-rated movie.
The show’s lineup also will include Ritu Tirthani, Apollo Comedy Club and Zanies Comedy Night Club, and Shaw Smith, Don’t Tell Comedy and Orlando Improv.
Autry said the Ocoee show will showcase her true talents and sense of humor.
“Usually, when I come to the Orlando area, I’m performing as a person who isn’t afraid of the ocean or Disney adults, but May 30 will be my first time performing my hour in Ocoee,” Autry said. “Truth is, I absolutely love Florida, and I’ve figured out that it’s a gem that the locals are trying to keep a secret. I have been hanging out in the Ocoee Facebook groups, and anytime someone posts that they might move to Ocoee, people respond with, ‘Try Winter Garden instead,’ which gets a ton of laughing reactions. It shows that Ocoee residents have a sense of humor and pride in their town, which lets me know they’ll be a great audience.”
OCOEE OPPORTUNITY
Although Autry loves living in Nashville, she has been to Florida several times for comedy and said locals from the area have been some of her favorite audience members.
“Everyone seems to be a bit happier and laid-back in Florida,” she said. “The venues have a unique island touch to them, and the audiences are genuinely happy to see you there. I love my audiences across the country, but I will say some areas are so saturated with comedy that they aren’t as jazzed about a comedy show as areas that don’t have as much comedy. That’s why I am so excited to perform in Ocoee. I know it is going to be a fun show.”
Autry said every time she has performed in Florida has been a memorable experience, but perhaps one of her favorite comedy memories stems from a show she did a few years ago in Miami.
“I’d say my favorite is hearing stories about the wild Miami audiences prior to performing there and having that reputation in mind when I first hit a mic in Miami,” she said. “I had this idea that they were going to cart me off stage as a group if they didn’t like my set. So, I was amping myself up before hitting the stage. However, they were one of the best audiences I had ever performed for. They were engaged and loud laughers — they loved me. I also loved performing at the beautiful Tampa Funny Bone. It’s like a theater marketed as a club. My top experience would have to be the week I spent doing shows in St. Pete — such a cool town and kind people. I’m looking forward to my time in Ocoee; blowing all these past shows out of the water, of course.”
Surprisingly, one of the things Autry most is looking forward to upon her travels to Ocoee is the health care scene.
“When I Googled, ‘What is Ocoee known for,’ one of the first bullet points was health care,” she said. “As a full-time artist, that is exciting news. So, while I’m in Ocoee, I’ll definitely have to schedule a few doctor’s appointments and see what this stellar health care is all about. I’m also really excited to have the show at a local business like Island Touch Cafe. Having the show at a local spot enriches the experience, because it’s more intimate and supports local business at the same time. And, of course, I may slide over to Winter Garden to settle the Ocoee vs. Winter Garden beef for myself.”
REACHING FOR THE STARS
AMBER AUTRY
WHEN: 8 p.m. Thursday, May 30; doors open at 7 p.m.
WHERE: Island Touch Cafe, 1711
Amazing Way, Suite 113, Ocoee
TICKETS: shorturl.at/adhFV
WEBSITE: amberautrycomedy. com
watching. She describes her comedy style as physical, vibrant and joyful.
“I love hearing how the audience describes my comedy after the show,” she said. “I’m always getting, ‘You remind me of my best friend. I have to tell her to come see you.’ Or they will gush about my physical comedy and facial expressions saying they don’t see comedy like mine anymore. I’ve also been getting, ‘Where is your Netflix special?’ It may sound like I’m boasting, but it’s true. I’m a big proponent of not only accepting praise from others but believing those things about yourself, because if you don’t believe in yourself, why do it? In my comedy, I share stories from my own life in a way that makes you feel you’re hanging with your best friend.”
Come August, Autry will headline for the first time in Los Angeles at The Hollywood Improv. Despite her vast experience, she still gets nervous for shows like this.
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“This may sound cheesy, but living my dream as a full-time comedian means every day and every show is a major event,” she said. “My lovely boyfriend will tell you that I still get nervous before every show, even if it’s at a local bar, because I care so much
about what I do. Of course, I am super excited about headlining in L.A. L.A. is a huge city for comedy. So, this is a major accomplishment.”
This year, Autry has set a goal to get back into acting. She said she still has the same passion for acting as she did when she was in college.
“When I was a kid, that was my dream,” she said. “Actors like Jim Carrey, Raven Simone and shows like ‘All That’ … kept me glued to the TV after school, imagining the day I could make an audience laugh like they did. So, this year I will definitely be acting more. I also have just begun headlining my own shows, and because of
this I am gone every weekend. I plan to continue headlining in more cities and building a following. One day, I will be selling out theaters for standup. So, this is just the beginning.”
Autry also hopes to one day be in a writer’s room for a show she loves.
“I know those things are happening for me, because I’m meeting the right people who believe in me like I believe in me, and if I desire something I know it desires me back,” she said. “So, there’s nothing stopping it from arriving in my life. I’m truly looking forward to what this year has in store for me.”
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Autry derives inspiration in her comedy from Jim Carrey and Raven Simone, two comedians she grew
Courtesy photos
Amber Autry, of Nashville, is an internationally touring stand-up comedian.
Amber Autry has worked with several well-known comedians at a multitude of venues.
Orange Code will dictate development regulations for county
West Orange and Southwest Orange residents gathered to gain insight into the regulations at a recent town hall meeting.
ANNABELLE SIKES
NEWS EDITOR
Anticipating a population increase of 500,000 by 2030, Orange County is rethinking how and where the community should grow.
The county hosted a series of town hall meetings for each district, where residents gathered to gain insight into the county’s proposed new land development regulations: Orange Code.
The District 1 meeting took place Tuesday, April 30, at Windermere High School. More than 30 residents attended to voice opinions on topics such as open space, transportation planning and roads, zoning and lot sizes, and planning and zoning terminology.
District 1 Commissioner Nicole Wilson said she is looking forward to the future and ensuring the county has caught up with the goals and vision of the community.
“I hope that we keep going down this path, because I think the dialogue we’re having is so important,” she said. “I love my district, because I feel like we have an unbelievable wealth of experience, background differences and knowledge, and what that means is when we all get together, some really great things happen. I know that many of my residents who have been involved in planning for a really long time have a protective stance, because they feel like applications come in and they affect their way of life. My hope is this process becomes very predictable and that with all the information that comes out it makes more sense when there’s a change in any type of land use, because we know if it was there and part of the plan. That predictability means stability, which also brings good economic development.”
WHAT IS ORANGE CODE?
Every city and county has land development regulations that describe where and how new buildings and communities may be built.
Orange County’s land development code was written in 1957.
Orange Code will be the new land development regulations that focuses on placemaking standards and context-based regulations.
This form-based code relies on desired development characteristics rather than what communities seek to avoid.
While the Vision 2050 comprehensive plan dictates land-use types and where growth will occur, Orange Code will help shape the form of the local urban fabric by fostering predictable built results and a high-quality public realm.
County staff said the plans aim to protect
n For more information on Orange Code, visit bit.ly/3UG7Joh.
n For more information on Vision 2050, visit bit.ly/3QIlMbG.
the region’s natural resources, preserve the county’s diversity, address the multimodal transportation needs, and achieve predictable and compatible growth patterns.
The meeting began with county staff providing an overview of Orange Code and form-based code, discussing how it aligns with Vision 2050 and providing a breakdown of the draft document.
Transect zones will replace the county’s existing zoning districts in its development code. There are six transect zone identifiers — natural, rural, sub-urban, general, center and core — as well as secondary identifiers. Additionally, zoning requirements will be easier to interpret using the zone standard tables.
Next, during the public engagement portion of the meeting, county staff broke out into stations for residents to visit and provide input, which included framework, public work and environmental protection, zoning, and interactive portals.
The Orange Code zoning map is available through the Gridics Mapping Platform, which enables users to interpret and visualize how municipal zoning rules and ordinances apply to specific properties throughout Orange County.
When searching for a parcel through Gridics, users can check for their respective transect zone, applicable overlays, lot coverage, setbacks and many more site specific standards.
Staff and residents then came back together to meet as a group, where moderators from each station summarized comments and questions received by the community.
Residents voiced thoughts on public transit, impact fees and affordable housing. Community members living in the Avalon Rural Settlement expressed concerns on how the new code could potentially impact the protections the area currently has.
The first initial draft review for the new code started in 2019, and the county now is at the fourth draft review, which started in September 2023. This draft currently is undergoing staff review.
Orange Code and Vision 2050 are both expected to go before the County Commission for approval in September.
Foodie Call
This image shows Orange County’s population growth through 2050.
First Baptist Church @ Horizon West 15304 Tilden Road, Winter Garden
Sundays: 9:45 AM All Ages www.FBCWG.org
Starke Lake Baptist Church
Pastor Jeff Pritchard PO Box 520 611 W Ave., Ocoee (407) 656-2351 www.StarkeLakeBaptist.org
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
Windermere denies SolVino’s request for on-site beer, wine consumption
ANNABELLE SIKES NEWS EDITOR
The Windermere Town Council at its meeting Tuesday, May 14, denied unanimously a conditional-use request for onsite consumption of beer or wine for a new business.
Applicant Sun Wine Inc., also known as SolVino — Fine and Rare Wines, is a business planned for the Downtown Windermere Redevelopment Project. SolVino was requesting the conditional-use approval because it is located fewer than 1,000 feet from Family Church, as well as three other locations with the same approval: Tim’s Wine Market, Windermere Brewing Co. and Paloma Coffee.
The town’s code provides the council may waive the separation requirement through the conditional use.
However, the request must meet all seven criteria provided in the code, including being harmonious, compatible and appropriate with the existing character of the area; not having significant adverse impacts on the livability and usability of nearby land; and preserving the public’s health, safety and welfare.
Several of the Town Council members voiced the welfare condition as their reasoning for denial.
Council Member Andy Williams recused himself from the vote, because he owns the building that houses Tim’s Wine Market, as well as other nearby property.
“We have six retail stores downtown, and, of the six, five have liquor licenses, and this is the current makeup of our downtown area,” Council Member Tom Stroup said. “I look at public safety and welfare. If we have five of the six businesses downtown selling alcohol, I mean, hypothetically, that means 95% of the people leaving the stores downtown have had something to drink. That, to me, is not compatible with our residents and is a big issue to me.”
DEVELOPMENT DETAILS
The SolVino business at 527 Main St. will be within the Windermere Downtown Property PUD.
Although the applicant was not present at the meeting, according to a letter, the business aims to “transcend the wine retailer industry by providing an educational, personalized purchase experience which focuses on quality over quantity.”
The family-owned business, led by a husband and wife, plans to draw inspiration from European bottle shops and neighborhood cafes. The applicant hopes to include 30 flexible seating options with high-top and lounge tasting areas centered around a 20-foot display case.
IN OTHER NEWS
n The Windermere Town Council approved two contracts and agreements: negotiating contract rates with Kimley-Horn and Associates for continuing engineering services and a 2023 memorandum of agreement for participating Orlando/ Orange urban security initiative agencies for license plate readers.
n Windermere approved the purchase of two patrol cars in the amount of $60,586.
n Council members approved the 90% plans for Old Dirt Main and Tenth Avenue.
Market. My first point is very simple. Approval of this conditional-use permit is actually a vote for Tim’s Wine Market, and the best thing this council can do to minimize competition between the two venues. … Point two is that denial of this CUP, given the facts before you and the statements that we’ve established in our narrative … is equivalent to a market control and inconsistent with the standard of review to which this council is bound and the spirit of local government.”
Town Council Member Brandi Haines said the 1,000-foot rule exists for a reason, and Town Council Member Mandy David said the applicants do not live within town limits, and the local residents do not wish to have additional outside people brought into the community to enjoy the new business.
Mayor Jim O’Brien said he was still not understanding the business model and what would make the shop unique, while Town Council Member Tony Davit said he struggled with the item and saw both sides of the argument.
“I’m certainly not interested in market control, but I do respect the opposition, and I do feel that even when some of the current conditional-use permits that we have … we have to be very careful, because I think we are currently stretching what some people will tolerate that live in and reside in our community,” O’Brien said. “I hear these issues regularly … I think there’s been limited outreach to the community, the owners have not reached out to me. I think that I do feel a genuine concern that we could change, in a negative way, the essential character of the downtown area.”
BOATHOUSE LITIGATION
The town’s code prohibits the sale of alcoholic beverages between the hours of midnight and 7 a.m, and the applicant is proposing to be closed by 10 p.m. each day.
The applicant was proposing outdoor seating only if approved by the town.
“We have communicated already that that would not be allowed the way that the development agreement is structured,” Town Planner Brad Cornelius said. “There really isn’t room for additional parking on that property.”
MAKING A CASE
At the April 16 Development Review Board meeting, the DRB was unable to reach a majority vote to provide a recommendation to the Town Council on the item.
Public notices were mailed to property owners within 500 feet of the property. The town received four letters in support and eight in opposition. The town also received 21 emails, all in opposition of the item.
Residents Debra Neal and Sarah Lopez spoke during public comment against the request and asked the council not to approve the item in the best interests of the community.
Town Attorney Heather Ramos reminded the council the item is a quasi-judicial public hearing.
“The Town Council is going to apply the criteria in the town’s code … as opposed to making policy decisions,” she said. “The decisions you make tonight must be based on the evidence presented this evening.”
Kara Ann Groves, attorney representing the applicant, said the applicant plans to offer wines around the $100 price range and above, which differentiates it from Tim’s Wine Market. They also do not plan to offer any events or promotions.
Even without the request, Groves said the business still would have the ability to provide samples on-site with the current approvals.
An update on the pending boathouse litigation also was discussed at the Town Council meeting.
“We are here to seek approval for wineby-the-glass offerings; consumption on-premises,” she said. “I just want to drive two main points home. You have heard from many already on Tim’s Wine
The town hosted a closed attorneyclient session pertaining to the litigation in February.
Town Attorney Nick Dancaescu said the mediation reached an impasse, but he could not share what happened in the mediation because of Florida Statutes.
Stroup said he was hoping the issues of the litigation would have been resolved in mediation, but that has not been the case.
He said hundreds of thousands of dollars have been spent on both sides of the argument and he believes the trial will double those numbers.
“I don’t see that as being a win for anybody,” he said. “They’re just boathouses. The property itself is not that significant. They’re just historic landmarks that make Windermere what it is — regardless of if they’re owned by the town or the residents.”
Stroup suggested both parties involved in the boathouse lawsuit drop the lawsuit and neither party seeks legal cost restitution. He said the previous lease agreements would be terminated and the town of Windermere would sell the boathouses to the previous lessees. The cost of the boathouse sales would be determined by the Town Council, but the cost would not exceed the current cost of legal fees already incurred by the seven lessees. The boathouse upkeep and maintenance would fall under the same rules and regulations as all residential property in Windermere, and any further legal costs incurred in complete disagreement would be pursued independently by all parties involved. He said his suggestion would be contingent on acceptance by all parties.
Stroup agreed to speak with Dancaescu and Town Manager Robert Smith to discuss the possibility of the offer and see if there is any appetite for the suggestions by those involved.
Although there would be many details to work out in the complex case, if the offer were to move forward, it would be brought before the council for a vote.
THESE OLD TIMES FROM THE WINTER GARDEN HERITAGE FOUNDATION
80 years ago
“Act Your Age” was the play being staged by the senior class at Lakeview High School, with leading parts going to Rebecca Kennedy as Cora, Lillian Ussery as Helga, Lessie Cooper as the Messenger Girl and Donald Cloughley as Commander Stone.
Advertisement: “Why not let us service your car? We specialize in greasing, washing and polishing.
Gulf Oil Station at Pounds Motor Company. L.A. Young, manager. Call 62.”
The annual Lakeview High junior-senior party will be held in the city auditorium on the lakefront. A beautiful contrast will be the group doing “The Virginia Reel” and “The Grand March.”
70 years ago
Culminating activities of the year for the Lakeview High chapter of Future Farmers of America was the banquet given at the school cafeteria with approximately 225 guests in attendance.
The auxiliary of the Church of the Messiah, Episcopal, gave an old-fashioned box supper Friday at the VFW hall, with proceeds going to the building fund.
A Silver Tea for the benefit of the Winter Garden Masonic Lodge was held at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Tell Minor.
The Lakeview High School senior class presented a play, “Books and Crooks,” directed by Vernon Parrish, English teacher.
Tom Cox men’s clothing store announced the sale of 70 pairs of work shoes for $4.95.
45 years ago
Mike Armbruster was named Most Valuable Player in soccer in his senior year. His coach was Mr. Mroczkowski.
40 years ago
The Adopted Grandparents Program at Dillard Street Elementary School, coordinated by Anna Fulford, received a $1,000 award for Service to Senior Citizens at the Disney Awards Luncheon. A recent “Books and Brown Bag Lunch” had a twist to it when Windermere Library Board chair Cheryl Paben held the meeting in the Windermere Town Hall kitchen
as a cooking class called “Quick Recipes for Busy People.”
20 years ago
For the first time in a generation, a new commercial building was being developed along recently revitalized Plant Street in downtown Winter Garden. The proposed 11,000-square-foot building was planned at 252 W. Plant St., directly across from the Winter
FROM THE ARCHIVES
Lela Ester Stephenson (Mrs. Henry) Bekemeyer (1901-1993) is portrayed in a beautiful setting from 1920. Facing a post-World War I future with confidence, she was the embodiment of the new young women determined to succeed in a rapidly changing society. However, a new war was to come; in January 1946 Lela was honored by the American National Red Cross “in recognition of meritorious personal service performed in behalf of the nation, her armed forces and suffering humanity in the Second World War.”
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.
Garden Municipal Complex. The two-story building was proposed to include prime retail and commercial space on the street level and an equal level of Class A office space on the upper floor. Based on Orange County Property Appraiser records, the last commercial building constructed downtown was the Khouzam Building, at 54 E. Plant St., in 1983.
THROWBACK THURSDAY
MAY 7, 1954 Train cases were once all the rage for female travelers. Just in time for Mother’s Day, Tom Cox Inc. Men’s and Boys’ Wear advertised in Winter Garden Times a Samsonite beauty for $17.50. It included a mirrored traveling dressing table, removable plastic tray and special pockets, and it was sold in a variety of “glamorous costume colors.”
In front of the Christ
Far East meets West Orange at annual Asian festival
Developer nixes
hotel
plans, earns Oakland approval
The Oakland commission also approved changes to the Briley Farm project.
AMY QUESINBERRY
COMMUNITY EDITOR
The Oakland Town Commission approved three ordinances having to do with two proposed development projects at its May 14 meeting.
A small-scale future land-use amendment changed from Mixed Use Commercial to Mixed Use Activity Center for future development on about 21 acres at the southwest corner of Fourth Street and West Colonial Drive. This property, called Fourth Street Village, was rezoned to Planned Development with a development agreement and master plan.
The owner is Oakland West Five Zero LLC.
After initially meeting with the Town Commission March 12 and hearing the elected officials’ comments, the developer was given time to revise the development agreement. The second public hearing was then tabled until last week’s meeting. A proposed 110-room hotel was
removed and replaced with a mixeduse building, a minimum of 40,000 square feet of commercial and office space was added, and the taller threeand four-story buildings were moved to the back of the property.
The proposed project still calls for a maximum of 190 multi-family dwelling units, a maximum of 125,000 square feet of commercial and 25,000 square feet of office space, a net density of 10.8 dwelling units per acre, and a net floor area ratio of .2.
Commissioner Rick Polland asked to add that the development must adhere to any current and future Dark Sky lighting ordinances.
Beverly Parsons, who lives on Fourth Street, is against the proposed project because it would be built directly across the street from her home. She said she is concerned about the increase in traffic and noise it will bring to her quiet street and the danger it poses to her visiting grandchildren.
“Here (are) your choices,” Mayor Shane Taylor responded. “We can keep the land like it is, and (Florida Department of Transportation) will come in and buy the land and put a pond in it — and it adds nothing to the town. … This town is ready to move
forward. … We’re going to do this the smart way. We’re not going to throw things in.
“One of the things I wanted to look at, because of where you live, is putting in an advanced landscape package so it blocks you,” he said.
In addition, the developer would have to install temporary chain-link fencing during construction.
“We’re not losing our identity,” Commissioner Sal Ramos said. “The property will look just like Oakland, and people will notice it.”
BRILEY FARM PHASE 1
Some changes have been made to the 35-acre Briley Farm proposed community near Lake Apopka as well. In April, the commission approved the first reading of an ordinance that included the proposal to rezone Briley Farm Phase 1A and Briley Farm Phase 1B — owned by Briley Land Holdings LLC — and Daniels Cove — owned by Daniels Land Holdings LLC — from R1-A to Planned Development to unify into Briley Farm Phase 1 and to approve specific design guidelines and architectural standards for development.
Briley Farm Phase 2 is owned by Voss Family Holdings LLC and cur-
IN OTHER NEWS
n The Oakland Town Commission accepted a project agreement with Bike/Walk Central Florida to assist with the creation of an inventory list of trails, sidewalks, bike lanes and crossings within the town. The mapping of these pedestrian networks will provide the town with a way to analyze the existing inventory and identify opportunities to enhance the connectivity of pedestrian traffic. The inventory and Geographic Information Systems mapping will be instrumental when prioritizing projects in the town that have the greatest probability of receiving grant funding. The GIS/mapping inventory would be funded by Transportation Impact Fees at a cost of $2,105.88.
n Jenoptik, a company that offers speed-enforcement cameras and license plate-reading systems, gave a presentation. Police Chief Darron Esan’s goal is to increase the safety of students and parents at
rently is zoned Planned Development with a development agreement.
According to town staff, eventually all Briley Farm phases, which includes Daniels Cove, will be under one PD zoning and development agreement. Among the proposal revisions, side setbacks must be a minimum of 7.5 feet, with the exception of Lot Type D, which will have 5 feet; accessory
Ocoee celebrated Asian and Pacific American Heritage Month as it hosted the Asian American Heritage Council of Central Florida’s annual Asian Cultural Festival. The festival was held Saturday, May 18, at Ocoee Lakeshore Center.
Attendees enjoyed a variety of performances honoring the heritage of many different countries, including China, Japan, Taiwan, India, the Philippines and Korea. The festival also included plenty of authentic Asian arts, crafts and, of course, cuisine.
ENG
— MICHAEL
and near Oakland Avenue Charter School. The speed cameras would be placed in the school zone, and the plate readers would go in each corner of the town, Esan said. “It doesn’t cost the (town) or taxpayers any money,” he said. “The speeders will pay for it. … The purpose here is to encourage people to drive slower for the kids.”
A portion of each speeding ticket issued goes back to the school
n Esan also introduced two new full-time officers, Brienna Brown and Barry Strykowski, who come to the town with a total of 20 years of experience with other agencies.
n The town has embarked on a project to test products in an attempt to lessen the dust that comes off the dirt roads, according to Public Works Director Mike Parker. A crushed shell material was laid on Edgegrove Lane and Vick Avenue, and the town will assess the integrity of the road for about 100 days.
dwelling units cannot contain permanent cooking appliances and cannot be used for permanent occupancy; and one of the five architectural styles, British West Indies/Bermudian, was removed.
The next step for the developer is to plat Phase 1B and create a preliminary subdivision plan and replat for Daniels Cove.
Raksha Sri Rajakumar stood still as the last-minute changes were made to her outfit and makeup.
Right: Ocoee Mayor Rusty Johnson presented a proclamation to Yan Lu, president of the Asian American Heritage Council of Central Florida.
The C.H.A.R.G.E. dragon boat team of the Chinese American Association of Central Florida performed an exciting dragon dance.
Attendees enjoyed perusing a variety of booths that featured Asian art and trinkets.
Right: The Orlando Young Lions of Youth Enrichment and Senior Services performed a lion dance to open the festival.
Golden Oak estate sells for $9.2M
Ahome in the Golden Oak community in Southwest Orange topped all West Orange-area residential real-estate transactions from May 6 to 12.
The home at 10030 Enchanted Oak Drive, Orlando, sold May 9, for $9,200,000. Built in 2019, it has six bedrooms, sixand-one-half baths and 9,444 square feet. Days on market: 43. The sellers were represented by Karen Balcerak, Golden Oak Realty.
These are the highestselling homes in each community in West Orange.
DR. PHILLIPS
BAY HILL
The condo at 8986 Houston Place, No. 203, Orlando, sold May 6, for $1,100,000. Built in 1979, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,027 square feet. Days on market: 10.
BAY VIEW RESERVE
The home at 8937 Crichton Wood Court, Orlando, sold May 10, for $730,000. Built in 1971, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,413 square feet. Days on market: Nine.
ESTATES AT PHILLIPS LANDING
The home at 8755 Southern Breeze Drive, Orlando, sold May 7, for $2,200,000. Built in 1998, it has five bedrooms, five baths and 4,693 square feet. Days on market: 12.
RESERVE AT CYPRESS POINT
The home at 8757 Cypress Reserve Circle, Orlando, sold May 6, for $1,580,000. Built in 2002, it has five bedrooms, five-and-one-half baths and 4,973 square feet. Days on market: 19.
SAND LAKE HILLS
The home at 8125 Golden Sands Drive, Orlando, sold May 8, for $600,000. Built in 1986, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,677 square feet. Days on market: One.
VIZCAYA HEIGHTS
The condo at 8745 The Esplanade, No. 6, Orlando, sold May 8, for $735,000. Built in 2007, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 2,903 square feet. Days on market: One.
HORIZON WEST
LAKE CAWOOD ESTATES
The home at 13734 Lake Cawood Drive, Windermere, sold May 6, for $1,215,000. Built in 2006, it has four bedrooms, three-andone-half baths and 4,437 square feet. Days on market: 26.
WESTHAVEN AT OVATION
The townhouse at 13993 Easdale Alley, Winter Garden, sold May 9, for $459,995. Built in 2024, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 1,897 square feet.
WINDERMERE LANDINGS
ORCHARD HILLS
The home at 14256 Magnolia Ridge Loop, Winter Garden, sold May 6, for $750,000. Built in 2015, it has five bedrooms, four baths and 3,585 square feet. Days on market: 28.
PANTHER VIEW
The home at 7536 Summerlake Groves St., Winter Garden, sold May 7, for $575,000. Built in 2019, it has five bedrooms, three baths and 2,461 square feet. Days on market: 53.
STOREY GROVE
The home at 10253 Love Story St., Winter Garden, sold May 6, for $530,000. Built in 2018, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,042 square feet of living area. Days on market: Two.
SUMMERLAKE
The home at 8121 Soldierwood St., Winter Garden, sold May 9, for $600,000. Built in 2016, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 2,699 square feet of living area. Days on market: 15.
WATERLEIGH
The home at 10277 Spring Shores Drive, Winter Garden, sold May 10, for $875,000. Built in 2018, it has four bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 3,316 square feet of living area. Days on market: 15.
The home at 8269 Bayview Crossing Drive, Winter Garden, sold May 6, for $675,000. Built in 2017, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,272 square feet. Days on market: 12.
The townhouse at 12032 Holystone St., Winter Garden, sold May 7, for $425,000. Built in 2022, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 1,568 square feet of living area. Days on market: 40.
The home at 6556 Golden Dewdrop Trail, Windermere, sold May 9, for $540,000. Built in 2012, it has three bedrooms, two-andone-half baths and 2,260 square feet. Days on market: 38.
WINDERMERE TRAILS
The home at 11859 Gold Creek Trail, Windermere, sold May 7, for $910,000. Built in 2012, it has six bedrooms, four baths and 3,804 square feet. Days on market: Nine.
WINDING BAY PRESERVE
The townhouse at 11139 Hanlon Terrace Alley, Winter Garden, sold May 10, for $460,000. Built in 2020, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,037 square feet. Days on market: 84.
OAKLAND OAKLAND TRAILS
The home at 2255 Standing Rock Circle, Oakland, sold May 7, for $515,000. Built in 2019, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,028 square feet. Days on market: One.
WINTERS LANDING
The home at 501 E. Oakland Ave., Oakland, sold May 11, for $799,900. Built in 2007, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 3,448 square feet. Days on market: Four.
OCOEE
ARDEN PARK NORTH
The home at 2844 American Elm Cove, Ocoee, sold May 6, for $535,000. Built in 2021, it has five bedrooms, three baths and 2,555 square feet. Days on market: One.
The home at 2833 Black Birch Drive, Ocoee, sold May 7, for $490,000. Built in 2020, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,930 square feet. Days on market: 48.
WOODS OF WINDERMERE
The home at 1449 Maravilloso Loop, Windermere, sold May 8, for $1,860,000. Built in 2014, it has five bedrooms, five-and-onehalf baths and 5,290 square feet. Days on market: 35.
WINTER GARDEN
CHAPIN STATION
The home at 1718 Lindzlu St., Winter Garden, sold May 7, for $498,000. Built in 2005, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,047 square feet of living area. Days on market: Two.
COBBLESTONE
The home at 339 Black Springs Lane, Winter Garden, sold May 9, for $710,000. Built in 2007, it has five bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 3,589 square feet of living area. Days on market: Four.
DEER ISLAND
The home at 255 Deer Isle Drive, Winter Garden, sold May 9, for $1,200,000. Built in 1987, it has four bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 3,041 square feet. Days on market: 77.
GLENVIEW ESTATES
The home at 1783 Black Maple Place sold May 9, for $460,000. Built in 2019, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,754 square feet. Days on market: 215.
BROOKESTONE
The home at 878 Patriots Point Drive, Ocoee, sold May 9, for $635,000. Built in 2003, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,501 square feet. Days on market: Nine.
FOREST TRAILS
The home at 2563 Laurel Blossom Circle, Ocoee, sold May 7, for $470,000. Built in 2006, it has six bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 3,873 square feet. Days on market: 10.
FORESTBROOKE
The home at 3484 Big Eagle Drive, Ocoee, sold May 8, for $950,000. Built in 1936, it has four bedrooms, four baths, two half-baths and 3,120 square feet. Days on market: 36.
LAKE MEADOW LANDING
The townhouse at 1929 Terrapin Road, Ocoee, sold May 6, for $431,839. Built in 2024, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,807 square feet. Days on market: 18.
PRESERVE AT CROWN POINT
The home at 2926 Bushmead Court, Ocoee, sold May 10, for $699,900. Built in 2019, it has five bedrooms, four baths and 3,202 square feet. Days on market: 13.
WYNWOOD
The home at 2398 Greenwood Oak Drive, Ocoee, sold May 7, for $657,990. Built in 2024, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 2,787 square feet. Days on market: 48.
The home at 2312 Coachwood Drive, Ocoee, sold May 9, for $429,990. Built in 2023, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,672 square feet. Days on market: 137.
SOUTHWEST ORANGE
GOLDEN OAK
The home at 10030 Enchanted Oak Drive, Orlando, sold May 9, for $9,200,000. Built in 2019, it has six bedrooms, six-and-one-half baths and 9,444 square feet. Days on market: 43.
WINDERMERE
ESTANCIA AT WINDERMERE
The home at 1128 Estancia Woods Loop, Windermere, sold May 8, for $1,950,000. Built in 2019, it has five bedrooms, six-and-one-half baths and 5,382 square feet. Days on market: 23.
WHITNEY ISLES AT BELMERE
The home at 1706 Whitney Isles Drive, Windermere, sold May 10, for $829,000. Built in 2006, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 3,104 square feet. Days on market: Five.
WINDERMERE
The home at 1942 Hempel Ave., Windermere, sold May 6, for $1,215,000. Built in 1983, it has five bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 4,780 square feet. Days on market: 56.
The home at 644 Glenview Drive, Winter Garden, sold May 10, for $505,000. Built in 1983, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,618 square feet of living area. Days on market: 24.
HERITAGE AT PLANT STREET
The townhouse at 632 Orange Belt Loop, Winter Garden, sold May 6, for $490,000. Built in 2018, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 1,688 square feet. Days on market: 56.
LAKEVIEW RESERVE
The home at 162 Zachary Wade St., Winter Garden, sold May 9, for $650,000. Built in 2002, it has four bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 2,842 square feet. Days on market: Nine.
ORCHARD
The townhouse at 248 Winter Nellis Circle, Winter Garden, sold May 8, for $379,000. Built in 2007, it has three bedrooms, twoand-one-half baths and 1,647 square feet of living area. Days on market: 11.
SHOWALTER PARK
The home at 213 James Drive, Winter Garden, sold May 10, for $470,000. Built in 1958, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,500 square feet. Days on market: One.
STONEYBROOK WEST
The home at 14639 Masthead Landing Circle, Winter Garden, sold May 7, for $605,000. Built in 2004, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,033 square feet. Days on market: 37.
SUNSET LAKES
The home at 3111 Shadow Pond Terrace, Winter Garden, sold May 7, for $780,000. Built in 1997, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,938 square feet. Days on market: Nine.
TIMBERCREEK PINES
The home at 9 Timbercreek Pines Circle, Winter Garden, sold May 6, for $740,000. Built in 2005, it has six bedrooms, four-and-onehalf baths and 3,960 square feet of living area. Days on market: 39.
TROYNELLE BY
BIG LAKE APOPKA
The home at 17502 Killarney Cove Drive, Winter Garden, sold May 9, for $407,000. Built in 1994, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,890 square feet of living area. Days on market: 80.
WATERSIDE — THE COVE
The home at 17184 Ocean Hill Drive, Winter Garden, sold May 7, for $545,000. Built in 2018, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,078 square feet of living area. Days on market: 33.
WESTLAKE MANOR FIRST ADDITION
The home at 391 Floral Drive,
May 8, for $680,000.
in 1973, it has three bedrooms, two
and 1,728 square feet. Days
Winter Garden, sold
Built
baths
on market: 58.
Uneek Luxury Tours
The home at 10030 Enchanted Oak Drive, Orlando, sold May 9, for $9,200,000. This home is located in Carolwood Reserve and features pond and golf-course views. The sellers were represented by Karen Balcerak, Golden Oak Realty.
Charlie Lube, Charlie Lube Photography
SPORTS
HIGH 5
1
After eight innings of play in the Class 5A, Region 2 championship game, the Horizon High Hawks (23-5) topped Osceola High (19-11), 3-2. Horizon was led from the circle by senior pitcher Avery Velazquez, who allowed just one earned run and had five strikeouts. Horizon will face Parrish Community High (18-8) at 10 a.m. Thursday, May 23, at PFX Athletics Complex’s Legends Way Ballfields in Clermont.
2
Windermere High baseball (28-4) fell to Marjory Stoneman Douglas High (26-5), 3-2, in the 7A state championship game Saturday, May 18. The loss marks the end of the most successful season in Wolverines history, which saw Windermere win the most games in a single season (28), win its first regional championship and advance to the state title game for the first time.
3
Following Rob Gordon’s announcement of his retirement as Olympia High’s boys basketball coach, the Titans have hired Justin Shipp as their next coach.
“We are really excited to have Justin become only the sixth head coach in Titan history,” Olympia Athletic Director Russell Wambles said. “There is no doubt in my mind he is highly capable of continuing the tradition of excellence that the previous coaches have put in place.”
This will be Shipp’s first varsity head coaching position, after having served as a varsity assistant for Windermere High — and former Olympia coach Mark Griseck — and junior varsity head coach. Prior to his time at Windermere, Shipp also served as an assistant at Dr. Phillips High
4
At the FHSAA state championship track-andfield meets, Foundation Academy sophomore CJ Bronaugh stood out above the pack from West Orange and Southwest Orange. Bronaugh won two Class 1A state titles in the 100- and 200-meter dashes and led the Lions’ 4x100-meter relay team — along with JT Bronaugh, Daniel Jean and Zephy Rogers — to a second-place finish.
Ocoee High’s Diego De Pina was the only other male athlete from the area who finished on the podium throughout the four classifications, earning a silver medal in the 4A shot put competition.
On the girls side, Olympia High’s Omaria Gordon was another shining star in the 4A meet. She won the state championship in the long jump and finished fourth in both the triple jump and 400-meter hurdles.
5Foundation Academy announced Kimberly Smith as its new girls basketball coach.
“We are so excited to have Kimberly Smith leading our girls basketball program!” Foundation Associate Athletic Director Krystal Thomas-Smith said. “As a former D-I athlete, she has a wealth of playing and coaching experience, and will be an asset to FA for years to come.” Following her playing career at Florida Atlantic University, Smith joined the FAU staff in 2014 as a video coordinator.
Most recently, she served as the girls basketball coach of South Lake High in Groveland.
With a .495 batting average and 39 stolen bases, Horizon softball’s Lila Hernandez is the sophomore sensation leading the Hawks’ fight for a state championship. 2B.
Calm in the
CHAOS
After seven scoreless innings in the Class 7A, Region 2 softball finals between Windermere High and Steinbrenner High, the Wolverines leaned on a practice drill called chaos to help them win.
SAM ALBUQUERQUE SPORTS EDITOR
After seven straight innings of two pitchers dialing it up from the circle, Windermere High’s Lexi King and Steinbrenner High’s Lily Patton, the Class 7A, Region 2 championship game was heading to extra innings.
As the visiting team, Steinbrenner was up to bat first in the top of the eighth — and with the international tie-breaker rule in place, a runner was
placed on second base. By the time Windermere managed to get three outs, Warriors sophomore baserunner Jenna Fortenberry scored the first run of the game.
You’d think after that many at-bats without a run and only a few hits to their name, the Wolverines would have feared that a single Steinbrenner run would end their magical season.
Well, you’d be wrong.
“If I told you that I was afraid, I’d
This week, we visited Dr. Phillips High, Lake
Vista High and Windermere Prep.
SAM ALBUQUERQUE
SPORTS EDITOR
Week 3 of the high school spring football session means one thing: Strap on your helmet and shoulder pads; it’s time for spring football games. In West Orange and Southwest Orange, six teams went out on the gridiron to see how the work they have put in this spring measured up against another team, West Orange High hosted Lyman High,
Lake Buena Vista High went to Ocoee High, Windermere Prep traveled to Trinity Prep, Dr. Phillips High faced Winter Park High, and Olympia High went on the road to Oviedo High.
For the third edition of the spring series, we take a look at Dr. Phillips, Lake Buena Vista and Windermere Prep.
DR. PHILLIPS HIGH
2023 record: 7-5
Coach: Rodney Wells, 13th season
Key returners, additions: QB Stanley Anderson-Lofton, DB Maliki Wright, WR Mykel Calixte and OLB Maurice Jones
After two uncharacteristic seasons in 2021 and 2022, coach Rodney Wells’ Panthers bounced back last year to take back its position as the area’s top team. With key playmakers returning on both sides of the ball — including four starters on the offensive line — and a new district that includes an Olympia High team that lost 36 seniors, a Celebration High team with a new coach and offseason turmoil that finished 1-9 last season and an East Ridge
High team that lost key starters from every position group, DP should at least be a force in its district.
NO. 1: Rising senior Stanley Anderson-Lofton goes into 2024 as area’s top QB Anderson-Lofton’s 2,400 total yards gained and 26 total touchdowns as a junior showed just how potent the rising senior gunslinger can be from under center. Add in another year of growth, expert tips from his time competing at the Elite 11 QB camp and trust from his coach, and, well, it’s pretty easy to see that he’s poised for a big 2024 season.
“We go as Stanley goes,” Wells said. “He’s been sharp, he’s been crisp with the ball. College coaches have been very impressed with him throwing the ball.”
Since I spoke with Wells at DP’s practice, Anderson-Lofton has picked up an offer from LenoirRhyne University and Delaware State; to go along with his MTSU, Lehigh and FAMU offers.
Sam Albuquerque
Dr. Phillips football’s Stanley Anderson-Lofton launched a pass during practice.
Above: Senior pitcher Lexi King was dominant in the circle, pitching all nine innings and only allowing three hits.
Top: Windermere coach Eileen Hannigan coached up shortstop Emilie Ching before her at-bat.
Photos by Sam Albuquerque
Lila Hernandez
As a sophomore, Horizon softball’s Lila Hernandez has taken a leap in her second season for the Lady Hawks. She’s nearly doubled her batting average from .268 (19-of-71) last season to .495 (45-of-91) this year, has 19 more runs batted in — 24 to five — and has stolen 18 more bases. With Hernandez’s improvement, along with the team’s overall growth, Horizon has had a historic third season as a program.
How does it feel to be named Athlete of the Week?
With so many extremely talented players in Central Florida, being named Athlete of the Week is truly an honor.
What do you like the most about softball?
The connection I have with my teammates is my favorite part. The girls are some of my best friends. We spend a lot of time together on and off the field.
What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned from softball?
Confidence is key. Of course, the physical training is important, but if you don’t have confidence on the field, the physical abilities won’t shine through.
Who is your favorite athlete?
My dad. He played in the minor leagues for eight years and still works harder than anyone I know. I was 10 days old when I went to my first baseball game in Richmond, Virginia.
Is there someone after whom you try to model your game?
Derek Jeter, because he was a great teammate and leader. Long after my last game is played, I want to be remembered as a positive role model for the game of softball.
What is your favorite softball memory? Winning Regionals was amazing!
What is your go-to pregame meal?
Chick-fil-A never disappoints; and post-game, (it’s) Chipotle.
What’s your go-to pre-game hype song?
“I Want to Dance with Somebody” by Whitney Houston. It’s even better when (Horizon softball) coach Steve (Lenzi) sings it from the press box.
What is your favorite nonsports hobby?
I love a beach day with my friends.
What is your favorite subject in school?
Science is my favorite subject in school. I want to major in exercise science in college.
What are three things you would take with you to a deserted island?
Survival kit, my sisters and my phone. The sur vival kit is a no-brainer. My sisters are so fun to be around and would entertain me and help me survive. Hopefully, I would have cell service so I could keep up with the group chat!
What is your favorite movie?
“The Notebook.” I love a great love story!
If you could have dinner with one person — dead or alive — who would it be?
I would definitely want to have dinner with my Nana. She passed away on March
THE BASICS Age: 16 Sport: Softball Grade: Sophomore School: Horizon High
2, and coming to my games was one of her favorite things. She has always been one of my biggest fans and supporters no matter what I am doing.
If you could go back in time to a specific period in history, when and where would you go?
I would go back to 1943, so I could try out for the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League — from the movie “A League of Their Own.” This would be an iconic opportunity.
Looking back, what piece of advice would you give your younger self?
Never give up, and keep working hard. When I had surgery in 2020, I lost a lot of weight and strength. I batted 10th and didn’t play much. I could have quit softball or outwork everyone else. I chose to work harder and persevere.
If you could ask your future self a question, what would it be? Did I make the most of the opportunities that came my way?
Who is your favorite superhero? Superman, because he is a symbol of strength and hope; (and) he can fly and has super speed.
Who is your favorite supervillain? Loki, because he transforms from villain to hero.
If you could have any superpower, what would it be?
I would love to be able to fly. Having an aerial view of everyday life would be interesting.
If you could travel to three places in the world, where would you go?
Greece, Paris and Italy. I am a foodie and would love to eat my way through Europe. Also, I could incorporate my love for the beach in Italy and Greece.
Does pineapple belong on pizza?
If it makes you happy, go for it!
SAM ALBUQUERQUE
Inside the huddles
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1B
NO. 2: Defense is young, but Wells knows the unit will be right come fall
Despite losing college-level players from each level of its defense, Wells is not worried about how his defense will cope with the losses.
“The experience and the leadership are going to come from the offense until we get the defense together; which we always do,” Wells said. “The good thing about our returning group is that a lot of them played last season — guys like Kaori Lang and John Poussin, Kramar Brown. They weren’t starters — they weren’t like Jerard Smith and Alfred Thomas or Johnny Fudge … but they all played meaningful minutes for us.
NO. 3: The Panthers offense will be full of weapons
With Anderson-Lofton at QB and four of five starters on the offensive line returning, DP is set up to be able to get the ball to its playmakers. Moreover, the three top receivers — Mykel Calixte, Cameran Dixon and Brandan Johnson — are back, along with transfer running back Zion Matthews, who looks like a potential
“A lot of our skill guys had really good seasons last year,” Wells said. “Now, they’re really all back and they have two seasons under their belt. So the expectation on offense is very high.”
LAKE BUENA VISTA HIGH
2023 record: 5-4
Coach: Brant Peddy, second season
Key returners, additions: OL/DL Jonathan Robinson, ATH Micah Winslow and LB Sean Adekunle
In its spring game against Ocoee High, the Vipers lost 28-7. But for coach Brant Peddy and his Vipers, this spring wasn’t about topping its Class 7A opponent in a meaningless spring game. It was about establishing a culture.
Year Two for Peddy is about growth
With most of its players lining up on both sides of the ball, this season’s Lake Buena Vista team is going to have to push itself and
that’s exactly what Peddy wants to see out his team.
“The biggest thing is there’s not a whole lot of us,” Peddy said.
“We’ve got a little over 35 kids. That’s not a whole lot of depth, but the biggest thing for me is that this spring, we saw our guys just go out there and give effort. We wanted to see them fight, finish and not stop. That’s the biggest thing with us — discipline.”
NO. 2: It’ll be a three-way battle for starting quarterback
In its spring game, Lake Buena Vista played three quarterbacks — Max Imber, Stoly Cenemat and Thomas Restrepo. Each brought a different flavor to the position, but regardless of their performances, Peddy won’t make a decision until the fall.
“It’s an open competition,” he said. “We won’t know who’s going into the QB1 slot until the fall. So, we’re just going to keep getting better.”
NO. 3: Independent schedule could see a more even slate for Vipers
Like Windermere High, Lake Buena Vista is an independent program for the next two seasons — meaning it won’t play in an FHSAA district nor be eligible to play in the playoffs. The schedule that comes with independence means the Vipers may have an easier run of competition in the 2024 and 2025 seasons.
“We play a lot of great teams in that independent schedule,” Peddy said. “We’re all right there; I feel like we’re all even. But you know, they all have great coaches, they have great players, I just hope that we can keep doing what we do and keep giving effort. Hopefully, we can compete with those teams and maybe we can sneak in a win or two (in) there somewhere.”
WINDERMERE PREPARATORY SCHOOL 2023 record: 1-7
Coach: James Hamilton, first season
Key returners, additions: QB/LB Jacob Duffy, ATH Peyton Hollern and ATH Caden Epps
In its spring game at Trinity Prep Episcopal, first-time head coach James Hamilton started his tenure as Lakers coach with a convincing 20-3 win.
The more important takeaway from this regime’s first game was that the program, despite its small roster number, has enough athletes on each level that it is able to implement the coaching staff’s schemes on both sides of the ball.
NO. 1: Rising sophomore Jacob Duffy looks like a star in the making
After a breakout freshman season in which Duffy took most of the snaps, it appears that the rising sophomore is going to be the key playmaker both on offense as Windermere Prep’s starting quarterback and on defense as its starting middle linebacker.
“Last year, he was kind of thrown into the fire at quarterback,” Hamilton said. “He’s not really a quarterback, but he’s taken the opportunity and run with it. As he continues to grow as a leader and in taking control of the offense, he’s been doing everything we asked of him. The main thing is just growing as a leader of that group and that’s what you want from your quarterback. As the summer goes on, he’ll just continue to get better at that.”
NO. 2: Hamilton is making things simple, and it’s working
The biggest part of any high school coach’s job is helping his players understand the mental aspects of the game. That’s especially true in football, and Hamilton knows that his young team needs to get the basics down to be successful this season.
“You have to be able to make your scheme fit the players you have,” Hamilton said. “Players aren’t going to be able to do everything that you want to call, and so sometimes, that means we have to simplify the scheme down. … If the players are thinking too much, then they’re slowing down and they’re not making their reads. If we can keep it simple it will allow them to play fast.”
NO. 3: Expect a lot of Lakers to play on both sides of the ball Because of its smaller roster, a lot of its best players will be playing on both sides of the ball. The Lakers need to work both mentally and physically to prepare for the incoming toll that pairs with playing multiple positions.
“It’s just a mindset,” Hamilton said. “That mentality starts to become developed in practice with simple things like running on and off the field, competing in everything you do, in all the drills just competing. It’s just all a mindset and that’s the thing we’re trying to do: Change the minds of the kids, change the culture of this program. It’s been great because the kids have bought in, and I think it showed out here on the field today.”
Thomas Lightbody | TK Photography
Windermere Prep football’s two-star Jacob Duffy will lead the Lakers at quarterback and linebacker in 2024.
Photos by Sam Albuquerque Lake Buena Vista coach Brant Peddy is focusing on building a never-giveup culture.
Practice drill prepare Wolverines for playoffs
be lying,” said Windermere softball coach Eileen Hannigan.
Neither Hannigan nor her team were scared, because they practice for this type of chaos.
“In practice, we do a drill called ‘chaos,’ and yesterday, we did that drill and practiced going to ITB,” Hannigan said. “We did this exact scenario, we had the girls lose the lead in the top of the eighth inning, and we practiced two innings of ITB. When this game got to that point, I told them, ‘You’re going to win this game, because you’re one of the best teams in the state and you’re ready for this.’ And we were ready for it. In all honesty, it’s hard to believe that we practiced that exact scenario a day before it happened in the game.”
Windermere’s preparation showed.
“We knew that all we had to do was just stay calm and do what we’ve been practicing,” said Windermere pitcher Lexi King. “We’ve practiced for this moment, so we trust our preparation and what we have in each other as a team.”
In the bottom of the eighth, the Wolverines clawed back and tied the game at one run apiece on a score by Windermere senior Carly Bunnell. In the top of the ninth, King and the Wolverine defense shut down Steinbrenner and got out of the inning unscathed.
“I felt really good out there,” King said. “A lot of practice has gone into this. All I was just trying to do was not to let the moment get too big and just stay calm. I trusted coach Hannigan and stayed locked in with Carly the whole time, that really helped me just not overthink anything.”
With the top of the batting order on deck in the bottom of the ninth, Windermere knew this was the moment to pounce and end this game once and for all.
First, to advance the ITB baserunner to third base, sophomore Ariana Lara laid down the sacrifice bunt. Check, baserunner Sabrina Boyer reached third. Now, all Windermere had to do was get Boyer across home plate.
That’s where shortstop Emilie Ching came in.
“I just thought to myself, ‘They pulled in an extra outfielder to the infield, so right field is completely open.’” Ching said. “So my head goes
straight to, ‘Hit it to right field however possible and the game’s done.’”
That’s exactly what Ching did. The pitch came, and she belted it to right field. Boyer reached home to seal the walk-off region championship win and a berth in the state semifinals — both firsts in the young program’s history.
“I don’t think there are words to describe what I’m feeling,” Hannigan said. “This is something we’ve talked about and dreamt about and we just get a tremendous amount of leadership from my seniors and juniors. There aren’t enough words. I just love them, and this is the most amazing feeling. … I don’t think they come better as human beings. They set their mind to achieving this four years ago when they walked on this campus. And today, they go out and do this. Do you get a better effort from Lexi King? And then the defensive stops, they just backed her left and right. When you’re in big-time games and need big-time plays, I know I’ve got a team ready to make big-time plays.”
Windermere, now 23-4 on the season, will need to top a fellow Central Florida team in the 7A state semifinals, to earn a berth in the championship game: Seminole High.
To get past Seminole and whoever wins the Western High/Jupiter High game, and claim the 7A state title, the Wolverines know what they have to do.
“We just need to keep doing what we’re doing,” Ching said. “That means just keeping the energy high. We all love each other so much, I think if we just keep playing for each other, we’ll win this thing.”
Their coach agrees and is more than happy to hand her players the keys to the car.
“They have the right mindset, they’re focused and they know what their goals are and what we need to do to accomplish them,” Hannigan said. “I’m lucky to have two amazing assistant coaches, who do nothing but help support these girls, and we’ve all told our players that they’re driving the car. It’s our job to make sure it’s fueled up for the whole trip there. But we have two more to go and we’re ready.”
The first pitch of the 7A semifinal is set to be at 11:15 a.m. Friday, May 24 at PFX Athletics Complex’s Legends Way Ballfields in Clermont.
Special Olympics Florida hosts 2024 State Summer Games
Special Olympics Florida held its annual State Summer Games on May 17-18 at ESPN Wide World of Sports and the USTA National Campus in Lake Nona. The two-day event drew more than 2,300 participants from across Florida, competing in seven different sports: track and field, basketball, soccer, bocce ball, cycling, cheerleading, and tennis.
The State Summer Games, one of Special Olympics Florida’s largest competitive events, also featured a spectacular opening ceremony.
Special Olympics Florida was founded in 1972 and provides year-round sports training and competition, crucial health services, and life-changing leadership programs to children and adults with intellectual disabilities; serving more than 70,000 Special Olympics athletes annually, at no cost to athletes or their families.
To learn more about the organization and its events, visit specialolympicsflorida.org.
SAM ALBUQUERQUE
Sam Albuquerque
Windermere High softball topped Steinbrenner High in extra innings, 2-1, to win the Class 7A, Region 2 championship.
More than 2,300 athletes participated in the two-day Special Olympics Florida games.
The Florida State Summer Games gives athletes of all ages the opportunity to showcase their skills.
SENIOR MOMENTS
Horizon, Ocoee, West Orange and Windermere high schools all celebrated the last day of classes for their seniors with various parties, parades and events last week.
Horizon hosted its Senior Sunset Tuesday, May 14. Hawks seniors enjoyed one last moment full of fun that included a slip-n-slide, inflatable obstacle courses, snacks, water balloon fights and a load of more activities that helped end their high school journey on a high note.
At Ocoee, seniors enjoyed the End of an Era Breakfast followed by Field Day, complete with activities such as dodgeball, an inflatable obstacle course and a deejay.
West Orange seniors walked their school halls for the last time Wednesday, May 15, as they participated in the much-anticipated tradition — the walkout. Parents, grandparents, siblings and friends lined the Warrior courtyard waiting to catch a glimpse of their graduate. After gathering near the student parking lot, seniors gathered for photos and some fun with Silly String and shaving cream. Later that evening, the seniors walked throughout downtown Winter Garden in their Sen-ya Later Parade.
Windermere students rolled off campus for the final time in the annual Senior Walkout Wednesday, May 15. The event started with friends and family members of the senior Wolverines helping to decorate their students’ cars before the Class of 2024 walked through the courtyard and out onto the school’s fields for its last few moments on campus.
— SAM ALBUQUERQUE, AMY QUESINBERRY AND ANNABELLE SIKES
The Ocoee Field Day event featured all sorts of fun, food and games, such as tug-of-war.
Windermere family members and friends got creative with their senior fan gear by creating large cardboard cutouts of the student’s faces.
Thomas Lightbody | TK Photography
Horizon High School’s seniors celebrated with a walkout and Senior Sunset last week.
Right: Windermere senior Nico Mujica’s family covered him in silly string to help celebrate.
Below: The walkout was an emotional affair at Horizon High School.
Thomas Lightbody | TK Photography
Thomas Lightbody | TK Photography
One of the various water-based games and activities at Horizon’s event was a massive slip-n-slide tarp.
Thomas Lightbody | TK Photography
West Orange High School seniors enjoyed being the center of attention as they made their way off campus for the last time.
Following their final walk through the courtyard, West Orange seniors took part in some fun with shaving cream.
Seniors looked for family and friends as they took their final walk through the West Orange courtyard.
Windermere senior Masson Sam had his sister, Johanna, help decorate his car.
A group of Ocoee seniors lined up to take a selfie and capture the moment during the school’s senior events.
With a deejay playing their favorite songs, members of the Ocoee senior class sang along during their “End of an Era” senior celebration.
Thomas Lightbody | TK Photography Parents were eager to see their seniors take one last lap around campus.
Thomas Lightbody | TK Photography
The walkouts give seniors a chance to give plenty of hugs along the route.
Astrid Attias, left, and Rebeca Melendez participated in the car decorating for their Windermere seniors, Marcelo Lavanga and Lucidio Mendoza, respectively.
Thomas Lightbody | TK Photography West Orange High’s walkout featured just a little bit of shaving cream.
Windermere senior Elisa Koechner’s family surprised her with homemade signs.
INFLUENCER OF THE WEEK
DAVID VILLASENOR
CENTRAL FLORIDA CHRISTIAN ACADEMY
As Central Florida Christian Academy’s school resource officer, David Villasenor’s job is to preserve the lives and safety of every individual who steps foot on the CFCA campus. That entails protecting the school and the individuals from any negative activity or any criminal mischief such as vandalism or theft.
“Officer David has made a tremendous impact on our campus this year,”CFCA Head of School Dr. Hal Stewart said.
“He is a humble man who is faithful, honorable and cares for the well-being of students and staff. He is the consummate teammate on our staff who is dependable and exudes love of God and people. He’s been a great blessing to us this year.”
What brought you to your school?
I asked God to give me a job that will bring me challenges, and He brought me to CFCA.
What do you love most about your school?
The humbleness and the fact that we can serve the Lord freely.
What is the most rewarding part of your job?
Being able to impact each student in a positive way.
What would you be if you weren’t in this profession? Flight medic.
Who influences you? My wife pushes me to strive to be better in life.
Who was your favorite teacher when you were in school? Why?
Ms. Dorothy. She was my fourthgrade teacher. She always wanted the best for me and saw potential in me.
What is your favorite children’s book and why?
“The Berenstain Bears,” because Mama Bear was always encouraging the baby bears to enjoy the outside instead of watching TV all the time.
REPORT CARD
POSITION: School Resource Officer
TIME AT SCHOOL: Nine months
What do you like to do in your spare time? I love riding my motorcycle and enjoy working on my custom car.
If you could dine with any famous person, past or present, who would it be and why?
Erik Estrada, because I loved TV cop shows and the uniform.
If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?
Control people’s minds — to control negative activities.
If you could only listen to two bands or artists, who would they be and why?
One is Barak, a Hispanic Christian band. Their music has had so much spiritual influence on my life. The other would be Stevie B’s freestyle music, because it is soft-spoken.
What was your go-to lunch and favorite snack as an elementary student?
Hamburgers, tater tots and oatmeal raisin cookies.
What is your favorite holiday and why?
Christmas, because it feels so positive and it is very exciting to exchange gifts.
Who was your best friend when you were in school and why? Are you still in touch?
Eric Balegas, because he always had my back and I had his. Unfortunately, he passed away.
— SAM ALBUQUERQUE
Principal Turner sworn in as attorney
West Orange High School Principal Matt Turner has graduated from law school and passed the Florida Bar Exam, and he is accredited to practice law in the state of Florida.
West
High School Princi -
pal Matt Turner can add a new title to his résumé now that he’s passed the Florida Bar Exam and has been sworn in to practice as an attorney in the state.
For three years, starting in 2016, he served as a principal by day and attended law school and studied at night. There are three parts to the process — taking 90 credit hours at an accredited law school, passing the bar exam and fulfilling the bar applications — and they must be completed in 25 months.
Turner earned his degree from Florida A&M University College of Law, but he learned it was nearly impossible to effectively run a school during a pandemic and study for and pass the bar exam.
“I had my master’s in educational leadership, but I knew I needed something else. (Going to law school) really changed my life. The amount of stuff I know now is crazy.”
— Matt Turner
“I was principal at Westridge Middle, then the pandemic hit, and I kind of stopped taking the test,” he said. “There was just too much going on. … When you’re working full-time, it doesn’t stop. (To pass) one of the tests, you have to study full-time. The other students aren’t working; they’re not doing anything else but studying.”
After the pandemic, Turner was determined to take the test again. He passed the federal portion in February 2023 and the Florida portion that July. He passed the professional ethics test but had to retake it because it had expired.
There’s a cutoff score of 136, he said, and most people score between 132 and 140. He worked hard to learn the material, he said, and scored 147. He had to write three essays, and one of the questions was about a commissioner who had a Facebook page and was blocking people.
“It’s the same with me,” he said.
“I’m a government official; could I do that? The answer is no. It was a full-circle moment, because I could use some of the things I do here.”
Turner’s swearing-in ceremony was April 30. His good friend, Chad Alvaro, a circuit judge for District 9, swore him in — and at that moment, he was officially licensed to practice law in Florida.
FULFILLING A DREAM
Turner has made it his mission to be an encourager of students. He has high expectations of them, and he pushes them to excel.
Likewise, he pushed himself to excel in law school, too.
“I believed I could do it, but no one
in my life told me I could,” he said. “No one ever told me growing up, ‘You can do this.’ I tell my staff and my kids here: No one ever pushed me academically. I was an athlete, a good one … so I was basically put in a corner and told to do a good job.”
Turner chose to become an educator, a decision he does not regret. He was a teacher at Oak Ridge High School, a dean at Edgewater High School and an assistant principal at Jones High School and Westridge.
“I had my master’s in educational leadership, but I knew I needed something else,” he said. (Going to law school) really changed my life. The amount of stuff I know now is crazy.”
It’s important to make connections in law school, too, he said. When he was having an addition put on his house, workers were deviating from the contract, so he called one of his former law school classmates, and she took care of it.
Turner is interested in practicing law on the side, and he currently does a little consulting work on education cases using his legal background with a few law firms. As well, he assists the Orange County Association for School Administrators and its principals and assistant principals with investigatory issues or situations at schools. He takes around 10 calls each week from those needing assistance.
He knows this degree will open up career possibilities in the future, but he said he loves West Orange High and its students and the community too much to leave education right now. This is his 20th year in education, 19 with Orange County Public Schools. He has been a principal for six years.
He could decide to apply for a superintendent’s position within a decade, he said.
“Down the road, if I feel I don’t want to do education anymore, I have something else I can do,” he said.
Courtesy photo
Matt Turner, left, was sworn in by his longtime friend, Judge Chad Alvaro. He has no plans to leave West Orange High School but will use his new degree in a variety of capacities on the side.
Windermere honors active-duty heroes on Armed Forces Day
The town of Windermere hosted its third annual Armed Forces Day ceremony Saturday, May 18, inside Town Hall. The event, organized by longtime Windermere resident Pam Martini, honored local service members and their families.
The town recognized 10 active-duty service members from Windermere: Calvin C. Anderson, Allie Batten, Christopher Clark, Kathlyn Love, Charles W. Martini, Andrew McKinley, Christopher McKinley, Sarah Myers, B.
WEST ORANGE OBITUARY
DIED
Wayne Wincey suffered a massive stroke on Saturday, May 11, 2024. As the humid breeze of Florida blew through the air in the early morning of May 15, 2024, with his wife, Ann, by his side, Wayne’s spirit was taken home to heaven. Wayne was born John Wayne Wincey on Sept. 27, 1945, at Eglin AFB, Florida, to John Westberry Wincey and Mildred Louise Williams Wincey. He graduated from Choctawhatchee High School in 1963 and could not have been prouder to have attended Florida State University, where he met his future wife, Ann, as his genetics lab partner.
Wayne and Ann married in 1968 at Oakland Presbyterian Church. After four short years, their plan was to be in Winter Garden for the summer and then move to North Carolina so Wayne could sell furniture. Working at 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea
as a captain was not what the world planned for Wayne. That’s where he was, though, and in a short time he was moved to the Contemporary Resort. Walt Disney World and the people of its company became Wayne’s life work.
The Mouse was a 40-year career of ups and downs, but there wasn’t a day that his briefcase, a pot of coffee, a cigarette and his laugh didn’t make someone’s day be filled with magic. All this considered, rest assured, you never wanted to be pulled to the side for a “come to Jesus” meeting with Wayne.
Wayne was an animated storyteller. As a storyteller, he also loved to hear stories. He loved the people who told them and who were in them. He was
Mason Plante and Ashley Paige Springer.
Speakers included Mayor Jim O’Brien, Chaplain Andy Jones, U.S. Rep. Daniel Webster, Town Council Member Tony Davit, Charles W. Martini and several family members of active-duty service members.
The service members enjoyed reading notes from Windermere Elementary School students. In addition, care packages were organized with cards from friends and family members.
— ANNABELLE SIKES
a lover of the details, the things that made it special. He knew God made everyone special and that everyone had gifts.
Wayne’s gift was his love of communication. He always wanted to know how everyone was doing, especially the ones he has now left behind: wife, Ann; daughter, Beth Ielfield (Ian); bonus granddaughter, Riley; adopted son, Mehmet Emec (Lale); adopted granddaughter, Sophi; sister, Kathy Litzenberger (Ron); brother, Ronald Wincey (Sharon); nieces and nephews, David Litzenberger (Mia), Nathan Wincey (Mallery), Kimberly Pearman (Zach), Jill Zuiderweg (Garrett), Ryan Wincey (Kyndal), John Litzenberger (Cheryl).
Never did you have to guess Wayne’s
favorite colors, team or what was his most important past time — FSU Football! For Ann, it’s the game. For Wayne, it’s the event! The event brings together people to make memories and, therefore, you have more stories. Wayne lived his life like every day was an event!
In honor of Wayne, visitation will be held from 4 to 8 p.m. Thursday, May 23, 2024, at Woodlawn Funeral Home and Memorial Park. Funeral services will be held at 3 p.m. Friday, May 24, 2024, at Oakland Presbyterian Church. A reception will follow from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. at Pilar’s Loft. If preferred, donations can be made to Cornerstone Hospice for the Care Center at Health Central or Oakland Presbyterian Church.
Above: Windermere’s Armed Forces Day ceremony garnered much town support.
Right: Several local veterans attended the Windermere Armed Forces Day event.
Local active-duty service member Charles W. Martini, third from left, celebrated being home with his family.
Town Council Member Tony Davit shared a special speech about what it is like to have a family member in the military.
RISING THROUGH THE RANKS by Daniel Hrynick, edited by Jeff Chen
By Luis Campos
LET THEM COOK!
The Class of 2024 is full of self-starters. From incredible athletes and academics to artists and performers, this remarkable group of young adults is poised for greatness.
Dr. Phillips High School
Christopher Marcel Caillat
Caliph Cajuste
Luiza Almeida Calefi
Ethan Calixte
Jonathan Ramille Calixte
Michael Cambria
Isaac Camisotti Dos Santos
Jaisart Arvelo
Hallex Gabriel Assuncao Souza
Marshall Jared Atkins
Joseph Robert Augusto
Alexis Breana Avant
Sebastian Hernan Azocar Perez
Jayleen Baez
Kaylia Shawna Bailey
Charles Aaron Bair IV
Ethan Rene Bambadjian
Jo’thanel Joachim Baptist
Marckenley Baptiste
Mario Jovens Baptiste
Aidan J. Barbosa
Daniel Barillas Carmona
Natalie Antonia Barreto
Lisset Bautista Mayorga
Jennica Beautelus
Lojeen Ihab Belal
Kathleen Belizaire
Imane Ben Laaroussi
Rime Benchekroun
Jasiah Benn
Kevin Leandre Benoit
Leya Berhane
Angie Mariany Betancourt Heredia
Adriano Dhydrick Bloomfield
Livia Bonfim
Michael Boris Borysiewicz
Sadie Grace Boudreau
Jae’La Arianna Bouie
Sofia Milena Brandt
Aidan Shea Branham
Micaela Bravo
Luca Paige Brightwell
Carlos Manuel Brignoni
Juan Esteban Brito
Chaela Brock
Sabrina Bronzoni Dutra
A’mari Janae Thomisha Brown
An’Tania Shekia Brown
Erin Elizabeth Brown
Jamaal Le’Edward Brown
Janae Makarria Brown
Madison Shea Brown
Cynthia Roberta Brutus
Julian Brutus
Leah Donna Bullard
Mason Aidan Bullion
Sage William Burger
Gabrielle Elizabeth Burgoon
Jordan F. Burnett-Kirkwood
Tanasjhai Danielle Burns
Zoey Grace Burt
London Dakota Butler
Tuba Butt
Emma Renee Byrd
Karen Fong Cabiya
Lily Abigail Cabrera
Ever Ismael Cabrera-Benitez
Chase Cydney Caceres
Ryan Marco Caceres
Olivia Cadiz
Toya-Jay Oneila Campbell
Iysha Tenegna Campblin
Luca Andre Cancina-Meggers
Katherine Nellymar Canizalez
Cruz
Tu Le Thanh Cao
Victor Carrascoza Rosendo
Luis Alfonso Carrasquero Gonzalez
Samuel Jahael Carrasquillo
Betancourt
Daniela Sofia Carreno Carrillo
Hanna Isabela Caruso Valdemir
Carlos Carvalho Silva
Guillermo Alonso Castaneda
Valeria Alejandra Castellano
Camila Andrea Castellanos
Daisy Angelique Castillo
Wanisha Celestin
Kemisha Joyce Celicourt
Gordlenski Cesaire
Cullen Thomas Chapman
Mike Jasen Charitable
Ariel Vanetta Chenault
Nathan Cicci
Santiago Clavijo Pulecio
Samuel Elijah Clue III
Eliana Zuguo Cohn
Matthew L.J. Conde
Damon Elder Cooper Jr.
Donovan Andre Corcho
Jose Alejandro Cordero
Victorio Gianotto Correa
Christian Cortes Code
Sophia Cossio
Emanuel Jacob Cossley
Rebekah Costa
Nicolas Costa-Spagnol
Joe Nathan Wiener Coty
Shayne Owen Craft
Dominic Cassanova Cruz
Jaylynn Lexus Cruz
Tiffany Cultrera
Miguel Angel Cunes
Nia Maria Cunningham
Gabriel Andres Curet Plaza
Rene Manuel Da Silva
Joao Otavio Da Silva Diniz Pereira
Jonas Dahlmann
Dayana Damour
Jonathan Hoang Dang
Timothy Deion Daniels
Ashira Lashay Dassie
Aarav Dattani
Adonis Davis
Amaya Tanai Davis
Erik Marcos De Abreu Prado
Maria Rita de Cassia Soares Da
Silva
Valeria Valentina De Freitas
Maria Juaquina De Gouveia
Giovanna De Lima Kkardiff
Ana Luiza De Moraes Lima
Giovanna De Oliveira Dos Santos
Eduardo Mateus De Paulo
Ja’ Quavia Ja’Queria Dean
Pierina Francesca Defrenza Lugo
Joseph Rocco Del Rossi
Jose A. Del Valle
Christian Antonio Delarosa
Rafaela Mazzillo Delboni
Marina Demirdjian
Hayden A. Denmark
Joanne Dera
Audiyus Nkosi Zinyae’ Derosin
Phillip Alfonso Desantiago
Chelsea Elizabeth Devenney
Chloe Dewar McCullough
Fabiana Patricia Diaz
Janeytsha Diaz Carrasco
Edgar Gabriel Diaz Castellano
Moises David Diaz Fuenmayor
Carlos Alejandro Diaz Santiago
Jena Dieu
Elizabeth Frances Diez
Luc Huu Dinh
Simona E. Djagarova
Andre B. Docarmo
Kaylah Saaniya Don
Charlotte Renee Donovan
Stephane Danny Dorilas Jr.
Kennia Nelssah Dorsainvil
Johnson Emmanuel Dorvil
Norah Stephanie Dorvil
Nadia Arielle Dorway
Aisha Joann Joseph Ducleran
Ielahiah Dume
Johnny Duong
Elizabeth Joy Edwards
Kaitlyn Ellenback
Milani Amya Ellis
Moulay Mehdi Elmazani
Shadrach Emmanuel
Andres Eduardo Esis Urdaneta
Camille Espinos
Zolenny Estrella Calcano
Amber Etienne
Amy Etienne
Isabela Fabris de Freitas
Angelina L. Falco
David Fanini
Gustavo Henrique Faria Rodrigues
Trey William Farnsworth III
Jezreel Anthony Febe
MariaVictoria Feliciano
Mateus Felix Da Silva
Emily Rose Felts
Kahyan Rafael Ferreira
Maria Eduarda Ferreira Leite Da
Silva
Iyana Ari Fertil
Mauricio Fialho Rego Filho
Jonathan Evan Fielding
Antawon James Fields Jr.
Kristopher Effendi Figaroa
Ryan Manuel Figuereo
Dylan Marcus Figueroa
Benly Fils Aime
Amani Jayden Finch
Bianca Sanches Firmino
Rylie Momoka Fitzgerald
Isabelle Iliana Flores
Melvin Alejandro Florian Gomez
Earrious Da’man Ford
Jayshaun Bhatia Fox
Eliab Emanuel Franca De Brito
Myles Bailey Franklin Jordyn Alexis Fray
Troy Freeman Jr.
Davi Silva Freire
Johnny Cornelius Fudge III
Madelyn Rose Gaffin
Bryan Noel Galeas Beltran
Brianna Lee Galvan
Alan Galvis Lopez
Jahki Lakeiff Gamble
Yiting Gao
Emily Damaris Garcia
Jonathan Harold Garcia
Erik Garcia-Sosa
Jacob Gardner
Samantha Reese Gardner
Layally Ahmad Garib
Lyse Gaelle Garilus
Anaica Jenny Gaston
A’mani Jaheim Alfred George
Ryann Yourry Germain
Austin J. Whitten
Shay Alexander Gibson
Taylor Giguere
Coral Gimbernard
Jeremiah Lynnard Golston
Evany Jitza Gomez
Alondra E. Gonzalez
Anthony David Gonzalez
Cristal Nicole Gonzalez
Sofia Valentina Gonzalez Mayora
Elianny Valentina Gonzalez Pena Michayla Tyesha Grant
Lorenzo Green Patricia Marie Griffith
Hassell Finley Reema Hayden
Jaliyah Catrice Ajazia Haywood
Shai Leah Heinzelman
Makhala Rain Henderson
Makhia Renea Henderson
Tisha Ashley Henry Tishawn Anthony Henry
Raenel Heidi Hepburn Danitza Hernandez
Litzy Hernandez
Victoria Hernandez Ferrer
Yirkelys Alejandra Hernandez Gonzalez
Cristian Yediel Hernandez Nieves
Sergio Hernandez Toribio
Jean Yadriel Hernandez Vega
Devonjay Zaq’uan Deion Herring
Guillermo Arturo Hidalgo
Anayansi Del Carmen Hinds Payne
Aiden
Hyppolite
Hassan Ibrahim
Jacob William Ice Imaney Imran Aiden Invictus Alexander Samael Invictus Ella Elizabeth Irwin Aida Kokutensa Isaac Matthew Felipe Costa Iverson
Damien Antonio Jackson
Jaramillo Alzate
Edouard
Lina Khattabi
Marwa Khattabi
Alexandra Spencer King
Elijah James King
Alexander Demitrios Kotsianidis
Carolyn Diva Kurniawan
Gabriel Brandon L’Hommedieu
Genesis Fabiola Lainez O’maari Lalanne
Gavin Donovan Lance Riley Kathryn Landis
Maria Fernanda Lange Diaz
Darnel LaPomarede
Julissa Alexandra Laredo Mora
Randolph Johnson Larochel
Orlendy Larosiliere
Elijah Lee Lastra-Otero
Brylin E. Latorre
Michael Latour
Sarah Lauriano Dos Santos
Parker B. Lawrence
Aaron Jacob Lay
Thomas Patrick Lazzaro
Rebecca Vilela Leal
Adan Leal-Cano
Aaron Joseph Leavitt
Elijah J. Ledbetter
Kei’Teisha Ledesma
Seungmin Lee
Trin Seth Lee
Triniti Semya Lee
DaJuan Leeks
Delaney Alani Legrand-Thomas
Diego Antonio Lezama Brito
Bryan Omar Lezcano
Lorra Valanndie Liberal
Angell Lin
Krisia Mayela Linares
Aniyah Leiana-Joi Little Leilani Amina-Trinity Little
Chrisanni Arianna-Devine Lockwood
Brandon R. Lohr
Isa Lopes
Joao Pedro Lopes Franceschi Silva
Leonardo Jose Lopez Cova
Brandon Lorenzo
Nejla Averanna Louis
Sebastian Louis
Marcelo Loureiro
Sofia victoria Lugo
Alaysha Keyona Lynch
Jesse Saad Maali
Edward Scott MacGregor
Phillip Duncan MacGregor
Avery Jaime Maldonado
Jayden Danielle Manganelli
Sahira Jena’ Maragh
Viana Lakshmi Marajh
Sebastian Andres Marcano Freites
Taliyah Marie
Demi Nevaeh Markland
Alisha Tavares Marques
Gabriel Castilhos Marques
Michaelangelo Marquez Bauta
Yadiel Marrero Hernandez
Damiyah Marshall
Grace Anne Marshall
Salome Marte-Asencio
Magdeline Mae Martell
Isabella J. Martin
Halyn Stephanie Martinez
Julian A. Martinez
Karina Iris Martinez
Maria Martinez Sebastian Alessandro Martinez
Daniela Valentina Martinez
Delgado Mahendra Matadin-Balkaran
Macy L. Matthews
Allan David Mayorga Cortes
Megan Elizabeth McAvoy Haven Ann McClean
Santana Olivia McCray
Michaela Gabriela McCutchen
Bree Michelle McDowell
Zelda Marie Elouise McGee
Alberto Andres Medina Peinado
Isysis Teshauna Marie Medley
Tyrick Jacoby Medley Jr. Luigi Meissner Medugno
Brandan Philip Megna
Jeniffer Xiomara Mejia Domingo
Denis Josue Mejia Solis
Santiago David Mendoza
Carolina Lissette Mendoza-Alonzo
Josue Emanuel Mercedes
Eduardo Messias Araujo
Alyza Morris Lucas Xavier Moscoso-Leon
Thiago Andre Motta da Silva
Usman F. Mughal
Alyce Safiya Nisa MuhammadYoung Shea Mary Mulka Karesh
Dennis Cesar Munoz Greits Mery Munoz Olivares
Jean Paul De Jesus Munoz Valladares
Hannah Na Elise Marisol Nascimento
Leticia Coutinho Nascimento Nicholas Nascimento Abby Abdoulaziz Ndiaye Miah Nealey-Kilson Yin Hei Ng Katharine Ngoc Nguyen Taj Maurice Nobles Emily S. Nunes Tiago Rafael Luiz Nunes Kaitlyn
Dear Panthers:
From where I stand, I see a group of remarkable Panthers with boundless potential.
Each of you possesses unique talents, passions and dreams that will shape the course of your futures. As you prepare to venture out into the world, I urge you to embrace uncertainty with courage and resilience. Whether you’re embarking on further education, entering the workforce or pursuing other endeavors, remember that the path ahead may not always be smooth or straightforward. But it’s in the moments of struggle and uncertainty that you’ll discover your strength, resilience and capacity for greatness.
As you prepare to embark on the next stage of your journey, urge you to reflect on the legacy you wish to leave
behind. How will you continue to make a difference in the lives of others? How will you use your talents and passions to create a more just, compassionate and inclusive world?
Remember that your legacy is not determined solely by the accolades you receive or the positions you hold. It is shaped by the relationships you cultivate, the challenges you overcome and the values you uphold.
Each of you has left an indelible mark on our community — shaping it in ways both seen and unseen. From your academic achievements to your extracurricular pursuits, from your acts of kindness to your moments of leadership, you have enriched our campus and touched the lives of those around you. So, as you bid farewell to this chapter of your lives and embark on new adventures, know that the future holds endless possibilities. Trust in your abilities, follow your passions, and never underestimate the impact you can have on the world. The view from here is one of immense pride and optimism for all that you will achieve. Go forth and leave a legacy in this world.
Jackie Ramsey
CLASS OF 2024, CONGRATULATIONS!
May your dreams be as limitless as the sky!
The City of Ocoee congratulates you on your many achievements.
We wish you the best the future has to offer.
Diyorbek
Horizon High School
EXECUTIVE
President: McKenzie Linne
VP
VP of organizations: Arushi Maitreya
Treasurer: Isabelle Gandica
OFFICERS
Event directors: Maddie Cintorino and Gwen Wirbel
Marketing director: Emily Rose
Parliamentarian: Payton Pressman
Historians: Savvy Sotto and Jos Wirbel
Secretary: Thomas Dixon
Ambassadors: Lily Harhi, Olivia Candrian, Brooks Kelley, Alexander Gonzalez and Morgan Mayhew
and Camryn Teasley
Jose
Ismail Belanaya
Aida Reagan Bell
Megan Elizabeth Bell
Madeline Paige Belshe
Luis Santino Benedetti
Reaghan K. Berthiaume
Ella Claire Black
Julie Moura Boness
Alexander Harold Juanga Borrero
Sarah Elisabeth Bourne
Elias Rayan Boussalham
Landen Dennis Bradley
Sarah Charlotte Braswell
Ione Mackenzie Bratton
Luis Jose Brea Sandoval
Lana Elizabeth Brinker
Leila Gabrieli Broetto Da Silva
Kenneth Jackson Broughton
Raquel Ann Butkus
Franco Luis Caceres Oliva
Simon Alberto Calles Castelo
Yasmin Camarosani Leone
Joshua Hunter Cambridge
Jack Fallon Campbell
James Parker Candrian
Juan Pablo Carmona Rodriguez
Isaac Carneiro Miranda
Juliana Carvalho Neves
Jaden Alexander Cassamajor
Dillan Matthew Castillo
7:30
Guilherme Castro Noronha
Kasey Heather Charneski
Isabela Chavao Cabral
Weihan Chen
Camila Isabel Chirinos Rodriguez
Joao Moreira Choe
Adonys Dimitri Christodoulopoulos
Madison Lee Cintorino
Anastasia Lee Cisco
Jah-Marley Elishiah Clement
Jahmaya Amari Clement
Jaylen Earl Cochrane
Fellipe Oliveira Coelho
Nicholas Alfredo Colimodio
Christa Marie Colon
Logan Ray Combs
Sophia Rose Condello
Joshua David Copeland
Andrea Valentina Cortez Paz
Rafael Costa Da Silva
Kimberly Nicole Coutts
Matthew Scott Cress
Reagan Denae Crow
Brandon Daniel Cruz
Mallory Cruz
Emily Cruz
Isabel Cruz Tyra Cruz Bragg
Isa
Alicia Michelle Kurzawa
Jack Scott La Brecque
Sebastian Lalaguna
Angel Augusto Lamon Hernandez
Abraham Laplante
Matteo Antonio Lasorsa
Jake Jerald Leaf
Davi Eugenio Leitao Calheiros
Sergio Luis Liggett
Jaslie Linares
McKenzie Anne Linne
Zachary Andrew Litz
Gabriela Queiroz Looney
Giancarlo Lopez Santini
Maria Eduarda Loredo Milan
Arthur Loureiro de Oliveira
Zache Lubin
Emanuela Barbosa Lucien
Hali Koharu Luebke
Cameron Ashley Macauley
David Maciel Rodrigues Faria
Bryan Maffioletti
Nicholas Maffioletti
Tyler Joseph Maggio
Jo Holler
Chloe Holt
Xenna Hoogerwerf
Cooper Allen Howard
Saori Caroline Huang Gutierrez
Amelia Cheri Huckabee
Bethany Alice Hudson-Moffett
Armando Ibarra Jr.
Talan Noel Indasorn
Lillian Irwin
Kamron Russel Ivory
Kaelyn Lea Jackson
Tyler Eunho Jang
Aniah Alissa Jarvis
Harsh Jha
Estefania De Los Angeles Jimenez
Gomez
Chase Johnson
Brendan Jones
Daniel Joseph
Sarah Nour Kabili
Jeevan Maharaj
Arushi Maitreya
Maria Fernanda Malave Osio
Maria Jose Malave Osio
Sophia Malkani Dias
Raymond Malone III
Zack Dylan Mankoff
Roberto Andres Mariella
Emmanuely Marily Simoes
Bianca Marins Vieira
Anne Marques Raposo De Paula
Santiago Jesus Marquez
Grace Lynn Marrero
Anya Dominika Martinek
Valeria Alexandra Martinez
Mariana Martins Dos Santos
Aiden Lynn Mason
Tyler Patrick Mastroianni
Morgan Catherine Mayhew
Macy Cleo McCarthy
Amaria Shanelle McCrimon
Cristian Makkel Mitchell
Giovana Rumy Mitsunaga Leite
Julia Yumi Miura
Mirian Andrea Monsalve Contreras
Gian Andres Montano Tufano
Eli Wallace Montgomery
Valentina Morales Gonzalez
Juan N. Moreno-Ramirez
Mariana Lucia Morillo MacGregor
Isabella Victoria Morillo Urdaneta
Nahla T’rae Moses
Samuel Antonio Mujico Guerra
Sury Munkhbilguun
Christian Eban Murillo
Briana Grace Naim
Yann Felipe Narloch
Sarah Adelle Negueruela
Adonis McClaine Neilly
Adrian Azael Nieto Delgado
Liron Nitzachon
Jade Noble
Jordan Fabricio Lauria Nogueira
Courtney Claire O’Rourke
Kenya Olinda Travensolo
Gabriela Victoria Olivero Fernandez
Makayla Olsen
Chloe Danielle Ortiz
Claudia Angelica Ospina
Giulianna Maria Teresa Ovelar Silveira
Sofia Pabon Londono
Talon Matthew Kai Padua
Millie Manoj Patel
Reyna Patel
Mia Christina Paulsberg
Mason George Peck
Theo Perdigao Do Amaral Perez
Aliana Lakshmi Perez
Angel D Perez
Pedro Andres Perez
Victoria Isabel Perez
Kalei Nani Peterson Trojan
Lindsey Alexa Pierre
Laeh Pimentel
Anahi Pineros Gomez
Isaac Monteiro Pinheiro
Davi Prazeres Pereira Ongaratto
de Andrade Azambuja
Isabella de Carvalho
Raul Elias de Dono Vieira
Allondra Enid de Jesus
Diego Alexander de Jesus Ayala
Gabriel Viana de Mattos
Maria Luisa de Paula Rodrigues Bryce Tyler Decosta Adriano Del Pozo Navarrete
Diego Delgado Ortiz
Michelle Kan
Luke A. Karnauchov
Bo Douglas Kenney
Samantha Michelle Kenney
Brendan Thomas Ketelsen
Owen Davis Kingery
Katarina Elizabeth Knauss
Ethan James Kondor
Angelica Alexis Kowalkowski
Katelyn Willa Kruse
Isaiah Keolamaikalani Medeiros
Anna Clara Sarrizo Melo
Axel Romain Memes
Higor Gabriel Mendes
Francisco Jose Mendoza Olivares
Jordis Deanna Eline Merisier
Ethan Andrew Meyer
Nickolas Howard Midili
Lochren Jom Miller
Matthew Kevin Miller
Jose Ignacio Pino Marrero
Pedro Pinto Pinheiro
Jagoda Maria Piotrkowska-Wojcik
Gabriella Pires da Silva Mota
Sebastian Gabriel Plasencia
Emma Teresa Pooch
Lourdes Sofia Portillo Cosentino
Angelo Positano
Theodore Edward Powers
Maria de Los Angeles Prato Superlano
Thomas Lightbody | TK Photography
Horizon High School Class of 2024, I am incredibly proud of your resilience and grit. Each of you started your high school career during a pandemic and at a different high school. It is astounding to me that each one of you is a transplant from somewhere else; another school, state or country, and you came together to establish Horizon High School as a true community school with an amazing culture and climate. am confident that your experience at Horizon High School, combined with your passion and perseverance, will ensure each of you has a promising and successful future! Go Hawks!
ANDREW JACKSON
Thomas Lightbody | TK Photography
Lake Buena Vista High School
Casale Madriz
Piero Alessandro Castro
Rose-Phania Celestin
Mike David Chacon
Faith Shao-Yi Chan
Jia Dong Chan
Jumana Wissam Chaseb
Yuet Yu Chen
Isabella M. Cheng
Joseph Gary Chojnowski
Fatimah Yasmeen Choudhury
Malana Thanh-Truc Chung
Monserrat Ciru Cotto
Nicolas Claros Sarria
Michael Joel Claudio
Madison Clegg
Edward Josiah Coats
Diego Alejandro Colmenarez
Rodrigo Andres Contreras Osorio
Paula Virginia Contreras Pirela
Greyson Daniel Luther Cook
Turrahn Emele Crawford
Jesus Martin Crisostomo-Villafane
Alexis Cruz
Ana Isabela Cubillos
Camille Vitoria Izzo Da Silva
Alvaro Rafael Da Silva Dal Bello
Landon Dabney
David Dareus Genesis David Savannah May Davidson
Jose Ignacio Davila Gonzalez
Alan Andres Daza Hoyos
Julia de Oliveira Novaes
Samuel Desir Jr.
Laura Maria Diaz
Alondra Valentina Diaz Boustanie
Nicolas Diaz Herran Giancarlo D’Luca Osorio
Ryan David Duffy
Brian Duong
Sabrina Dumerci
Ronald Vadim Dupuis
Ana Vitoria Durans
Jasra Elahi
Malek Ellid
Camelia Marwa Elmrabti Selahaddin Eyyub Erciyas
Diego Armando Escalona
Daniel Factor
Natalia Fernandez
Nicolas Ferrari
Roberto Vincenzo Festari
Stephen Michael Fink-Mariani
Javier Alexander Flores-Paz
Samantha Sofia Lizardo Faria Eesha N. Lodhi Manuel
Manzano Ojeda
Anthony Maritato
Alejandro Dannyel Marmol
Perozo
Omarys Channel Martinez
Gabriela Martinez Sanchez
Lucas Martino Castello B Portal
Valeria Victoria Mateo Santamaria
Micanord Diosmy Mathurin
Nathan Thuta Maung
Jose Alessandro Mejia Torrealba
Zeeshan Memon
Alejandro Labrador Gonzalez Carlos Ladera Pulido Zachary LaPeters Rayner Ruben Lara Torres Daniel Silva Leal
Areliz Joan Lebron De Leon
Lee Jean-Pierre Junior Ligene
Renee Lincoln
Courtesy photos
SOAR to Middle School! We our 5th graders! Go out and
The Town of Oakland Congratulates all of the Class of 2024 Graduates
Oakland Avenue Charter School
— Dr. Lisa Karcinski
Courtesy photos
To the Olympia High School Class of 2024, have enjoyed watching all of you grow into the young men and women you have become. The past four years have been filled with ups and downs, and each of you have worked hard to get to this very moment. I look forward to seeing where your paths may lead, and no matter where those roads take you, remember that you will always be a Titan! Congratulations! — Christy L. Gorberg
Courtesy photos
West Orange High School
VALEDICTORIAN
Natalia De Oliveira
SALUTATORIAN
Ashlynne Graham
CLASS OFFICERS
President: Kaitlyn Soto
Vice president: Hayden Hipps
Communications Director:
Isabella Fonseca
Secretary: Aly Skipper
STUDENT COUNCIL OFFICERS
President: Max Eidelman
Vice president: Addie Mueller
Executive director of communications:
Sophia Heller
Secretary of fundraising: Maggie Scott
Secretary of school spirit: Zach Moore
Secretary of citizenship: Elise Morhack
Secretary of service: Andrew Duncan
HOMECOMING ROYALTY
Daniel Burton and Gina Berkman
PROM ROYALTY
Jayce Hernandez and Aubrey Longest
GRADUATION
2 p.m. Thursday, May 29, 2024, at Addition Financial Arena at the University of Central Florida
Ameer Shehadeh Abdalla
Stella Abrahao
Zachary Thomas Acton
Sedriq Tyrese Adderley
Jackson Brennan Adkins
Oluwatunmise Omolola Afolabi
Trinity Agosto-Jagessar
Valentina Agudelo Montoya
Conor William Ahearn
Carter Joseph Aide
Angelina Emilia Segota Alarcon
Michael Alexis Alcantara-Rivera
Ashton Ricky Alcime
Anthony Blake Alejandro
Nicolas Alencar Bernardes Da Costa
Taraj Thierry Alexander
Yolwenn Scheslie Alexandre
Lea Patricia Allier
Isabella A. Allo
Raya La Pastina Almeida
Jasmine Alvarado-Rodriguez
Alexander Ames
Pedro Villas Boas Amorim
Hannah Anderson
Jerdaine K. Anderson
Addison Grace Andre
Jeanny Rose Andre
Cameron G. Anglada
Sawyer Hawk Anglin
Adrian Anzola-Montanez
Ana Reyna Argueta
Hirad Ariana
Paola Arias Lopez
Noah Jacob Arlen
Hanna Riley Armstrong
Jaylyn Joseph Armstrong
Caroline Grace Arney
Valeria Deliana Arraiz
Jesus Alejandro Avendano Molina
Cassandra Jean Aveyard
Cindy Avila-Bonilla
Landon Joseph Axtell
Jack David Bajdas
Juliana Baldomero Tavares
Angelina Maria Baldwin
Allison Baljit
Christina Bankhead
Ja’Maria Anijah Barber
Chance Edward Barnes
Samanta Baron
Lily Marie Barone
Jasmine Barrett
Valeria Sofia Barrientos Jugador
Natalia M. Bartko
Isabelle Marie Baruch
Hannah Michaela Baublit
William Brady Beahler
Ayla-Abigail Berene Bell
Joshua Louis Bell
Daniel Yanxuemin Bentley
Gina Kathryn Berkman
Kason Joseph Bernat
Aidan Robert Bernhard
Reese Bernhard
Laesa Paquita Bernoux
Giavonna Dior Bernstein
Jovan Christian Bertin-Maurice
Samuel Joseph Betterson III
Jacob Cole Bignon
Aidan Zachary Billedeau
Haven Stephanie Birket
Noah Andrew Blanchard
Anthony Ricardo Blanco
Ethan Joseph Blitch-Yee
Jasmine Cassandra Bonilla
Mason McKinnon Boyd
Tessa E. Brady
Toryeon Adrell Breedlove
Alejandra Briceno
Jordyn LaPaul Bridgewater
Chase Taylor Brinkley
Carlito Michael Brown
Jackson Riley Brown
Payton Riley Brown
Railey Bernai Brown
Zachariah Brock Brown
Anna Elizabeth Brownlee
Delilah Angelina Brueggeman
Heavenly Miracle Brunson
Chelsey Rihanna Bryant
Zoe Araya Calvez
Gabriella Marie Camacho
Naomi Joi Candelaria
Alexander Mark Candell
Trinity Amani Canuelas
Emilio A. Carbajal
Lily Jane Carnell
Aiden Edward Carroll
Pierce Michael Carston
Nia Love Carter
Felipe Leme Cavalheiro
Raymond William Cavey
Travis Travette Chandler Jr.
Kyleigh Naomi Charles
Cole Chavarry
Joy Chen
Stacy Chen
Ava Lorian Cheng
Jacinta Mary Chidiac
Kaitlin Saled Christopher
Devinh Chung
Jordan Anthony Clayton
Tyler Livingston Clemons
Victoria Kaylee Clingman
Rodrigo Barbieri Alvim Coelho
Lola Lee Coey
Gabriel Angel Coffey
Princess Zaria Naomi Collins
Jackson Xavier Colombier
Khalid Jessuan Colon Pagan
Jai Alve Conley
Ta’riya Armoni Cook
Terrance Derrell Cook
Nicole Cooper
Sandra Paola Cordero Boscan
Angelica Cosme
Benjamin Andrew Costa
Zachary Xavier Coutray
Samuel Gerrit Crabbendam
Richard Albert Cravens
Robert Foster Creager
Kendall Nicolle Crim
Rosemarie Delmaneeta Jane Crosley
Gianna Raychele Crouse
Jake Logan Crum
Kathryn Ann Crutchfield
Nathan Michael Cullen
Gabriella Merese Cyprien
Bryce William Czachorowski
Tabitha Donshea Davis
Charles Michael de Beer
Luigi Antunes de Faria
Cellini Luisa de Freitas Gomes
Meredid Altagracia de La Cruz
Natalia Suzuki de Oliveira
Jose Renato de Oliveira Silva
Camilla de Pandis
Ian Luis del Rosario
Rubi Yadira Delgado-Blanco
Danny Gabriel Delgado-Calanche
Sophia Yves Dennaoui
Summer Noel Denslaw
Liya Dereje
Alexandro Crist Diaz
Jonathan Yahir Diaz
Marvin Diaz
Preston A. Dinkel
John Paul Dishinger
Jorey Divra
Jordan Christian Donahue
Emma Dopico
Rafaella Dornelles
Carlsen Joshua Dorval
Ryan Lee Doyle
Olivia Elaine Drent
Leyticia Ductan
Lucas Salvatore Dufresne
Andrew Isaac Duncan
Emma Ruth Dyal Savannah Edgar
Max Robert Eidelman
Austin Joseph Elbert Caden Ellenburg
Anthony Christopher Ellison Abd
Matthew Benjamin Lee
Renee Haemon Lee
Samuel Wayne Lepow
Ethan Gabriel Lewis
Jada Y’Moni Lewis
Kai Kemi Phonexay Lewis
Sofia Nicole Libuda
Juan Felipe Lobo Rueda
Jadon Dwayne Lockhart
Chloe Grace Olivia Long
Aubrey Lynn Longest
Kywanie Cristian Lopes
Ayden Elijah Lopez
Cameren Antonio Lopez
Cor’ieon Armon Lopez
Danna Isabela Lopez
Elias Angel Lopez
Soamy Yanixa Lopez Martinez
Fatima Lopez-Rios
Brianne Donni Loughrey
Dakota Lowe
Jolver Alejandro Luces Castro
Ian Edrei Lugo
Saniya Clarice Lyon
Ellie Morgan Macalintal
Kallyn Elizabeth Maday
Emmett Wilson Madeiros
Jalissa Astrid Madera
Melinda Yen Nhi Mai
George Louis Maldonado
Addison Carol Malmberg
Nathan Marisol Malvido Sullivan
Axel Amir March
Danna Sofia Marin Zambrano
Hannah Maritz
Ashley Markland
Tate Montgomery Maroth
Zay Miguel Marquez
Noah Allen Marsack
Delanie Janice Martin
Kyla Renee Martin
Madeleine Noelle Martin
Ashley Martinez
Justin Tyler Martinez
Layla C. Martinez
Maximo Augusto Martinez
Fabian Andres Martinez Rivera
Steven Martinez-Santiago
Cesar Martins
Larissa Souza Martins
Clara Ellington Marvin
Chloe Jewel Buonomo
Madison Marie Burden
Daniel Lee Burton
Miles Jordan Butler
Raina Southerland Byerly
Chandler Sinclair Bynes
Malachi J. Caines
Bryan Moraes Caldeira
Asha Santoshi Dabiesingh
Glenn William Dagher
Carolina Dal Negro Reque
Donaria Daniels
Caio Venancio DaSilva
Jerica Kayla Daubney
Brighton Clancy Davis
Carson Andrew Davis
Ceasar Larenz Massacesi
T Anna Garricka Janice Mathurin
Cayden Scott Mattson
Luis Alberto Matute Gonzalez
Ella Marie Mayer
Elijah Xavier Mays
Emily Lauren McCarron
Jachai Anthony McFarlane
Thomas Lightbody | TK Photography
“ NOTE FROM THE PRINCIPAL
This year has been a special year for me, because this is the completion of my fourth year as principal of Warrior Country, meaning every student on campus has only had me as their high school principal. That makes it extremely special, as I have had the privilege of seeing all of our Class of 2024 seniors begin as freshmen and proce ed fully through high school.
We have had so many incredible memories in the last four years, and none better than some experiences we had this
year. From the incredible sense of community we witnessed at football games to the largest percentage turnout for a Homecoming dance in West Orange history to even just the day-today interactions that make West Orange High School unlike any other school in the country. am so proud of this school, our students and our community.
If you are reading this in 2024, 2034 or even 2074, I hope that you look back on your high school years with fond memories of events, classes and, most of all, the great relationships you built while you were here. To the Class of 2024: You have made an incredibly positive impact on our school community, and you will never be forgotten! Don’t forget that you are always welcome in Warrior Country!
— Matthew Turner
Courtesy photos
Windermere High School
Chaves Machado
Veronika Cherednichenko
Ana Beatriz Vieira Chiara
Antonio Vieira Chiara
Melanya M. Childers
Emilie Karolina Ching
Sri Tanvi Chirumamilla
Giovanna Gomes Christao
Vlad Cicala Ava Neilson Cimock
Ryan Connor Clarisey
Carter Alexandra Coleman
Isabella Marin Compton
Dylan Michael Connelley
Palmer Constant
Mia Luciel Contreras
Victoria Valentina Contreras Perez
Travis Jayden Corbett
Jeronimo Cordero
Christian James Cormier
Felipe Correa Meyer Knorich
Haley Lynn Corron
Ethan Finley Cost
Gianluca Sewaybrick Costa
Sophia Lauren Crossley
Xcitlalli Marllene Cruz
Kerlys Victoria Cruz Navarro
Isabella Faria Curado
Vitoria Daher Machado De Araujo Basso
Enzo Dal Pozzo Bordignon
Belle Kiss Dalati
Dylan Joseph Damico
Emily Elizabeth Dandrow
Larah McKenzie Darden
Ivanna Salome Daw Perozo
Tucker Brian Dawson
Evelyn Rocha De Alcantara
Geovana De Andrade Dantas
Felipe Signoretti De Campos
Laura De Conti Costa
Francisco De La Cruz
Josh A. De la Cruz
Sofia De la Pena
Laura De Lima Zanetti
Rafael De Miranda Medeiros
Nicole De Oliveira Ott
Martha Eduarda Da Silva Tiburcio De Sousa
Brenda De Souza Cruz
Guilherme De Souza Silva Kopke
Lina Amina Debbagh
Dominic DeBellis
Tchimala Desravines
Dahlia Devereux
Francesca Gabriella Di Lollo
Neomar J. Diaz Vargas
Michael Christopher Dillon
Lucas Antonio DiLorenzo
Laura Dinardi De Souza
Jack Wrigley Dobrolecki
Giulia Maria Domenici Borges
Felipe Donati Chiara
Lyna Pham Dong
Lucas Kyle Drone
Kaiden Michael Drowlette
Lily Susanne Dufenhorst
Victoria Valentina Dulcey
Maida Duliman
Nathan Phuoc Duong
Sean Xavier Duran
Sean Joel Duran Perry
Joane Janice Echeverria Alvarez
Diego Andres Eckert-Munoz
Kaitlyn Elaine Edmondson
Akino D. Edwards
Sara Ann El Fellah
Katherine El Rai
Ryan Elharrada
Charbel Elia Vetencourt
Victor Eliseu
Ashley Elliott
August Thomas Emerick
Anya Hetal Engineer
Luis Alberto Espinoza
Dania Etienne Lettie Montana Evans
Julia Fabelo Ferreira
Yassine Salah Fadloullah
Cannon Hayes Feazell
Jesus Febres Jauregui
Dylan Michael Felbab
Enzo Lisboa Feliciano
Waleed Saleem Fergali
Sebastian Fernando Fermin Freites
Victor Fernandes Ornellas Goncalves
Preston Allen Fernandez
Sebastian Arcadio Fernandez Figueroa
Isabella Valentina Fernandez Santeliz
Mariana Ferreira Dos Santos Coppolo
Kaiane Ferreira Duque
Mariangel Chiquinquira Ferrer Carvajal
Isabela Ferroni Ribeiro
Rodrigo Ferroni Ribeiro
Horacio Julio Figueiredo Diniz
Luis Alberto Figueroa Vila
Ian Charles Fisher
Kaelynn Rose Fitos
Jace Christopher Fixler
Eloise Fletcher
Giuliana Flexa Froldi
Julia Reese Flower
Luiza Fonseca Dantas
Noah Winston Ford
Bryce Mackenzie Forrester
Eveliina Maria Foster
Brody Jacob Franczyk
Maria Eduarda Freitas De Jesus
Alexia Zeneida Freitas Rolim
Owen Friedman
Aubrey Elyse Frink
John Michael Frisch
Cameron Ryan Frucht
Carlos Jesus Fuenmayor Rubio
Emma Christine Fuentes
Carola Ganem
Haoxiang Gao
Shangxuan Gao
Izabella Maria Garcia Adrian Ignacio Garcia Flores
Aidan Bennedict Gaspard
Brandon Jermaine Gaston Lopez
Heba Ghaith
Nabil Gharamah
Valery Gil Falcon Victoria Gil Falcon
Izabella Ginart Rossi
Andres David Giron
Lucas Curran Glassburn
Charan Raghava Gnanasakthi
Gianna Gabriella Godsey Indiara Goedert
Eva Goenner
Reese Goforth-Ho
Julianna Mara Goldberg
Samuel Mark Goldberg
Juan Luis Gomez Gaviria
Ariana Margarita
Leonardo Lagrille
Brooke Isley Larweth Ameer Dean Latif
Treasure La Eryia Laurent
Marcello Lavanga Attias
Chris-Ann Michaela Lawrence
Amy Le Tri Minh Le Andres Leon Diaz-Viana
Elle Elizabeth Lesesne
Abigail Rose Lewis
Isaiah E. Limage
Alan Lin
James Richard Litwalk
Alexi Catherine Long
Francisco Alejandro Lopez
Vanessa Gutierrez Lopez
Juan Diego Lopez Faria
Weitz DJee Louisdor
Erishamah Angyolie Louissaint
James Aidan Lowry
Christian Luckie
Carley Grace Ludwig
Gabriel Alexander Lugo Bello
Sebastian J Lugo Zuleta
Brandon Martin Luik
Terry Luo
Mya Sanaa Luster
Chenxuan Ma
Erick Julian Macias-Sedano
Sienna Grace Maehl
Arthur Maia Couto
Isabella Sophia Malaver
Stefano David Malfi
Liam Mallen
Anabella Mannino
Sthefany Marega Sanches
Ibrahim Mohannad Marei
John Steven Margelos III Dawson William Marques
Madison Claire Marshall
Joanna Nicole Martinez Leyva
Maria Martins Silva Joshua Emmanuel Masone
Stephanie Paola Massey Perez Ava Mathis
Bejthara Givencha Mauvais Hayden Elizabeth Mayorga Giselle Lyn McDowell
Collin Brady
“
NOTE FROM THE PRINCIPAL
As another school year draws to a close, it is important to take time to reflect on all the accomplishments we’ve achieved as a school and community. At Windermere, the phrase, “Achieving Greatness with Honor,” is more than just a tagline; it is a core belief in all that we do. From academics and athletics to fine arts and extracurricular activities, I’m so proud of all you’ve accomplished both in and out of the class-
room over the course of this school year. The opportunities that lie before you are endless, but it will be up to each of you to passionately pursue your goals and dreams. Don’t be afraid to take chances and even fail. Colin Powell once said, “There are no secrets to success. It is the result of preparation, hard work and learning from failure.” Whatever goal you have, I expect you to passionately work to reach it while doing so with honor. To all my students: Thank you for making my first year at Windermere one that I will never forget. To my seniors: May the road rise to meet you, and may the wind always be at your back, and remember, once a Wolverine, always a Wolverine.” Andrew Leftakis
Our goal is s mple- crea e excellent, healthy smiles. By putting your needs at the forefront and maximizing our staff's talents and years of experience we're able to offer the best orthodontic treatment around. We offer a w de variety of treatment options including: lnvisalign® and lnvisalign® Teen clear aligners and clear ceramic braces. Whether you're an adult, teen or chi d, our dedicated team of highly qualified professionals w ll work closely with you to develop a treatment plan that is best suited for your orthodontic needs.
and years variety of t races. ork closely
CONGRATULATIONS CLASS OF 2024!
NOW THAT YOU HAVE GRADUATED, HAVE YOU BEEN WONDERING ABOUT HOW TO...
· Find a great employeer?
· Build a career path?
Earn a great pension benefit?
Get financial assistance for college? Receive on-the-job training?
· Learn a trade?
Secure amazing health benefits?
Tyou ?
he City of Winter Garden has current openings for entry level candidates. Training will be provided to you, you will get paid, while you learn and develop new skills, that will enable you to chart a career path that has opportunity for advancement. The City will support your ongoing learning and growth in a career with our City and if your goal is to pursue a degree, the City covers tuition and educational expenses to
complete an Associate and Bachelor’s Degree. The City offers excellent benefits for our full-time employees that include not only health benefits, but also a great Pension Retirement Plan for those interested in building long-term careers with our City!
Submit your employment application by visiting the City of Winter Garden Website to view all of our job postings, including those that are entry level.
OPPORTUNITIES ARE AVAILABLE NOW! EMAIL WGRECRUITER@CWGDN.COM IF YOU HAVE QUESTIONS OR CALL 407-877-5428. WE LOOK FORWARD TO HEARING FROM YOU SOON!
CHECK OUT OUR EMPLOYEE BENEFITS!
• Educational reimbursement and career development program
• Clothing allowance and uniforms supplied
• Free gym membership
• Vacation and sick leave banks with 10 paid holidays
• Medical Insurance - 100% City paid employee-only medical coverage
Optional additional retirement savings with a 457(b) plan
Partial City contribution for the cost of dependent care medical coverage
• Health Savings Account - A City contribution of $1,454.24 to the HSA annually
• City paid long term disability and life insurance benefits
Dental, vision, flexible spending, and dependent care accounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Legal Shield
• Retirement pension with 5 year vesting for General Employees and 6 year vesting for Fire and Police
HOODIES. Despite living in Florida — and its relentless heat — hoodies were a popular choice for teens in 2024. In both zippered and nonzippered forms, the hoodie was an easy, comfy option for those long school days.
THE THINGS YOU WORE …
Quite possibly the coolest shoe ever invented. While other fashion trends have come and gone, Chucks have maintained their popularity and seem to attract just about every genera-
BOY PERM. Indeed, it seemed teen boys were taking some fashion cues from grandmas in the early 1980s. This hairdo often manifested itself like a mop on the top, with the sides and back clipped short. Like many things from 2024, this trend circulated over social media under the hashtag #boyperm.
THE THINGS THAT WERE POPULAR …
CROCS. It is strange, almost non-sensical, that people ever wore a shoe as ugly as the Croc. Even more outlandish is that they rose to prominence a second time, making it a popular choice for teens in 2024.
TAYLOR SWIFT. Previous generations had Michael Jackson, Madonna and Britney Spears, You had Taylor Swift. And in 2023-24, her fame reached new heights with her public romance with Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce and the release of her album, “The Tortured Poets Department.” Be honest: You were a Swiftie, weren’t you? Jaap Buitendijk | Warner Bros.
IPHONE 15. From texts and TikToks to Instagram and Snapchat, the mobile phone — and more specifically, the iPhone — was your gateway to the world near and far.
“BARBIE.” In 2023, “Barbie” ruled the box office, garnering $1,445,638,421 in worldwide box office revenue and $636,238,421 domestically.
THE TEAMS THAT WON
…
NFL Super Bowl LVIII Champion: Kansas City Chiefs
MLB 2023 World Series Champion: Texas Rangers
NBA 2023 Finals Champion: Denver Nuggets
FIFA 2022 World Cup Champion: Argentina
NHL 2023 Stanley Cup Champion: Las Vegas Golden Knights
Beige flag (noun): An odd or quirky characteristic, but not one that is innately good or bad.
Bet (phrase): A term used to express agreement, affirmation or approval.
Bop (noun) : A good song.
Bruh (noun): An informal term for a male friend. It is a shortened version of “brother” that can be used to address anyone including your mother. It also is used to convey a variety of emotions, such as excitement, embarrassment, surprise or exasperation.
Bussin (adjective): Something is extremely good, excellent or impressive. It often is used to describe food but can also be used to describe other things such as movies or parties.
Cap (noun): A lie or falsehood. The opposite of “cap” is “no cap,” which means “no lie” or “for real.”
Delulu (adjective): Short for “delusional.” It is often used to describe people who display odd or extreme behavior, such as superfans or dating partners.
Extra (adjective): Used to describe someone who is trying too hard, over the top, excessive or maybe a little dramatic.
asking to do something they are good at without interference or criticism.
Mother (noun): An iconic feminine figure. An act is “mother” if it contributes to that icon status. It’s most often used to refer to pop stars, actresses or other celebrities, but it also is applied in everyday life.
Rizz (noun): Short for “charisma.” Used to describe the ability to charm or seduce a romantic partner — especially through verbal communication.
Roman Empire (noun): Used to describe something you love, are obsessed with and think about. All. The. Time.
IN THE YEAR 2024 … THE THINGS YOU SAID … MANOFTHEYEAR
Say less (phrase): A way to express agreement or understanding without providing further explanation.
Slay (verb): To do something exceptionally well, especially when it comes to fashion, artistic performance or selfconfidence.
Shook (adjective): Stunned or shocked.
Vibe (noun): The overall feeling or atmosphere of a person, place or event. Can be used as a verb, “vibe check,” to mean the act of ensuring someone is having a good time.
The First Academy
VALEDICTORIAN
David Han
SALUTATORIAN
Ava Joyce
CLASS OFFICERS
President: Madaline McGinn
Vice president — community engagement: Sloane Vines
Vice president — student life: Aniston Risinger
Vice president — spiritual formation: Grace Cowan
STUDENT COUNCIL OFFICERS
Alex Curtis, Giovanna Leal Santana, Liam Sweeney, Angelina Faustino, Gabriel Aguilar, Oliver Deng, Daniel Holter, Raegan Rice, Alexandra Clark, Jacob Hawkanson, Erin Martin, Trey Simpson, Wilson Stringer, Olivia Tracey, Macy Modlin, Austin Grimes, Zoey Pastis, Ava Pierzynski, Molly Sheridan, Anna Bronson, Kyleigh Hope, Ella Hurst, Eli Koon, Justin Wilson, Jay Beavers, Jamile Cavalcante, Sam Seeber, Fayth Smith, Addison Cloud, Grace Grant, Hope Woods and Hanru Swanepoel
HOMECOMING ROYALTY
Julian Anderson and Raegan Rice
PROM ROYALTY
Gabriel Aguilar and Angelina Faustino
GRADUATION
6:45 p.m. Friday, May 10, 2024, at First Orlando’s Worship Center
It feels like just yesterday that your senior year at TFA began. As you prepare to embark on the next chapter of your journey in college, I want to offer you a heartfelt challenge: Stay true to the values that have been instilled in you at home, in your church and here at TFA. Remember, God is your refuge, and He has a unique plan, purpose and direction for each of you. It has been an honor to walk alongside you during your time here, and I am filled with anticipation to witness the incredible things that God will accomplish through you in the years ahead.
— Dr. Steve D. Whitaker
Courtesy photos
Foundation Academy
VALEDICTORIAN
Mia Sanders
SALUTATORIAN
Tyler Cannon
STUDENT COUNCIL OFFICERS
President: Annabelle Marvin
Vice president: Hailey Long
Secretary: Lexa Kooistra
HOMECOMING ROYALTY
Tyler Cannon and Rylan Marion
PROM ROYALTY
Raphi Veloz and Bella Colon
GRADUATION
6 p.m. Friday, May 17, 2024, at Leiferman Gymnasium, Tilden Campus
Fabiana Aguirre
John Armstrong
Evan Baker Cameron Basden Danielle Belanger
Bellomo Camden Boast Donna Borger Jonathan Bosque
Brewer James Bronaugh
Bruggeman
Burton
Cannon Santiago Castelan Jennifer Castellanos
Cioffi Joel Clements
Colon
Comissiong
Conover
Cross
Csefko Siarhei Danisheuski
Dakota Darnell
Addison Davis
Alexander Doggett
Ashlyn Douglass
Chloe Dunster
Avery East
Nalani Eastlack
Sydney Ellis
Conrado Ermacora Diaz
McKenna Esposito
Ruby Evans Emma Fellure
Skylar Florin
Drew Flournoy
Faith Ford
Alexandra Frame
Joshua Garcia Scott Gibson
Madeline Gross
Matthew Hazelwood
Sophia Hernandez
Claire Herring Matilda Hidalgo
Samuel Hoenstine Isaac Hood Madelyn Isbel Elizabeth Jackson Ethan Jamieson Daniel Jean Abigail Johnson
Kime Lexa Kooistra
Larson
Lee Emilee Logan Hailey Long
Alexander Lystad
Rylan Marion
Malachi Markham
Ava Marosan
Annabelle Marvin
Samuel McFarland
Preston Mock
Evan Moore
Carson Naidenoff
Juan Nino Alvarado
Andrew Nyland
Jacob Osborne
Diego Perez
Ellie Perfetto
Kharma Phillips
Tristen Ragsdale
Briana Ramirez
Luke Ranaudo
Hunter Rearden
Ella Reuter Sebastian Rey Jayden Rodriguez
Zephaniah Rogers Mia Sanders
Lillian Sheridan
Sundermeyer
Thackurdeen
Uhlman
Veloz
Wall
Wapole
West
Wood
Yandell
Thomas Lightbody TK Photography
Thomas Lightbody TK Photography
Montverde Academy
SALUTATORIAN
Anabella
CLASS
Class
Vice
Secretary:
HOMECOMING ROYALTY
Lenny Polcaro and Giana Provenzano
Cooper Flagg and Lola Ressler
GRADUATION
9:45 a.m. Saturday, May 18, 2024, at “The Nest” at Montverde Academy, 17235 Seventh St., Montverde
Khaleel Rajab Abukhadrah
Daniel Justin Robert Acevedo
Noah Samuel Adams
William Ampofo
Seth Arabitg
Connor Austin Aragao
Skye Elizabeth Arcia
Payut Asawasriworanant
Ibrahim Mohammed Awal
Dixon Jotham Ayal
Mateus Baptista de Souza
Miguel Ferreira Barbosa
Karlo Habib Barbour
Skyler Jane Barnaby
Lucy Ana Wales de Barros
João Victor Bassan Bonomo
Kwaku Bawa
Aaron Thomas Bell
Anya Zada Bernechea
Vincent Thomas Bilski
Muskaan Bisht
Alexander Oliver Block
Elise Clare Block
Sean Michael Booker Jr.
Christian Mathias Borbely Rodríguez
Cassidy Rene Burris
Alejandro Andres Caballero
Jaloni Nicole Cambridge
Luca Haberfeld De Campos
Joaquín Canales Cantu
Isabela Carmona Lemus
João Pedro Claudino Carneiro
Lilia Chahim
Ting-Wei Chang
Ghali Chraibi
Javier Noel Collazo Lopez
Anthony Joseph Concolino
Sterling Harvey Don Cooke Jr.
Maria Clara Costa Fraga Andrade
Pahris Nathalia George Cotterell
Taryn Grace Crawford
Connor Michael Critoph
Kelly Elizabeth Crosley
Pedro Medeiros Teixeira De Azevedo
Paola De Chavarria Muñoz
Jesus Santiago Del Aguila Espinosa
Oliver William Dixon
Delaney Mary Dorsey
Alaska Candace Dorvil
Lily Louise Downs
Catherine Elizabeth Emilcar
Taehyun Eom
Idil Zehra Erdinc
Emiliano Esquinca Salazar
Isabella Nina Farris
Isabela Ribeiro Paculdino Ferreira
Erica Cristina Finol
Rebecca Isabel Finol
Quinn Carole Fitzpatrick
Cooper Westley Flagg
Kristiana Isabella Flowers
Emily Elisabeth Franciosi
Gianluca Anthony Franco
Marco Franco
MaKayla Sophia Garland
Eva Pearl Gaudette
Hanan Besher Geda
Alex Michael Georgiev
Andrew Peter Gerges
Elian Michael Giangreco
Sophia Ainealem Gidewon
Curtis William Givens III
Drew Bennett Glass
Gerardo Gomez Corona
Miguel Angel Gomez Fernandez
Estefanía Zoé González Cintrón
Marisol Gonzalez
Jayvian Jacobey Greene
Baylor Lee Gunkel
Osei Gyamfi
Yacine Haddad
Hashem Hassanein
Adaejah Tenay Hodge
Bailey Joelle Hollis
Goki Hoshino
Mohammed Ibrahim
Takato Imoto
Hernan Iriarte Gonzalez
Vivian Chidera Iwuchukwu
Amelie Lourdes Jaime
Aracelis Jimenez
Maelee Ann Johnson
Sude Su Karabulut
Heloisa Medeiros Kazakevic
Thasanunth Khamkhokgruad
Jonathan Paul Kidd
Minseok “Leo” Kim
Felipe Damasceno Kimura
Isabella Katherine Kirst
Chayapat Korsapthawee
Emmanuel Kwame Kwakye
Zachary Giles Lane
Eduardo Kozlowski Schalch Leal
Yun “Tay” Lee
Nathan Lertpisitkul
Eris Emoni-Danae’ Lester
Kira Elizabeth Lewis Camilo Ernesto Libreros Rios
Lucas Breim de Mendonça Lima
Miccah Dennie Lindstrom
Ryan Liu
Sparsh Siddharth Malhotra
Jeremiah Louis Matruglio
Antonella Lourdes Mazziotto Duffaut
Grace Addison McClain
John Stephen McGrath III
Liam Thomas McNeeley
Tyler Zachery
“ NOTE FROM A LEADER
The Class of 2024 at Montverde Academy embodies a remarkable assembly of scholars, artists, community leaders and athletes showcasing exceptional talent across various domains. Their academic pursuits span a wide spectrum, delving deep into fields such as environmental sustainability, biomedical science, experimental science, engineering, computer science, business and global perspectives, earning them national recognition.
In co-curricular activities such as Model United Nations, academic team, robotics, Mathlympics, programming and the arts, they’ve consistently distinguished themselves, garnering praise for their superior performances and pushing the boundaries of creativity and innovation. Notably, in athletics, this class boasts numerous national champions and future
Olympians, contributing significantly to Montverde Academy’s success in sports. Their triumphs include national titles in boys and girls basketball and track and field, as well as a state championship in girls soccer, accumulating more than 20 championships during the 2023-24 school year alone.
Beyond their individual achievements, what truly defines the Class of 2024 is their unwavering support for one another and the profound guidance they’ve received from the faculty and staff. In their senior speeches, a common thread emerges — the theme of overcoming obstacles with the collective encouragement and nurturing environment provided by their peers and mentors. Despite facing daunting challenges, their response has been nothing short of inspiring, their courage uplifting and their leadership truly encouraging. As they prepare to embark on their journeys beyond Montverde Academy, it’s evident that the Class of 2024 is poised to make a significant impact on society. Their collective talent, resilience and community-minded spirit will undoubtedly shape the world in profoundly positive ways. Congratulations to the MVA Class of 2024!
David Bernatavitz
Courtesy photos
Windermere Preparatory School
President: Anderson Davies
Vice president: Kirah Bolanovich
Secretary: Sasha Vallabhaneni
Philanthropy and finance director: Michael Casingal
Marketing director: Sophia Gegg
Boarding representative: Daniel Goebel Guzman
Homecoming Royalty
Pedro Teixeira and Isabela Yumi Carvalho Akabane
McCormick and Sakshi Trivedi
7 p.m.
May 24, 2024,
Zainab Abdi
Jacob Adar-Smith
Oluseyi Adeleye
Usman Ahmed
Eshan Ali
Omoruyi Aliu-Otokiti
Lorenzo Allwood
Santiago Amador Carvajal
Matthew Anderson
Sophia Apoloni Cassiano
Daniel Asuquo
Ryan Babecki
Daniela Bardi Silva
Camila Barni
Letizia Bassu
Abraham Behar Morales
Priyana Bhatta
Kirah Bolanovich
Isabella Bonetti
Graham Bosak
Lohanna Braga Comite
Morgan Bridges
Austin Brinckerhoff
Aiden Browne
Benjamin Cabanas-Miller
Kate Caicedo
Katya Campos
Steven Camus
Isabela Yumi Carvalho Akabane
Michael Casingal
Ryan Chang
Caleb Cheng
Minjin Cho
David Choe Leon
Umar Choudhry
Ian Cooper
Marco Antonio Cosentino Brunetta
Morgan Coughlin
Enzo Couto Ferrazoli
Anderson Davies
Emma Davies
Parker Davis
Valentina de Conti Frosi
Nathan de Luca Vinocur
Veronica Isabel de Ycaza Novey
Brooke Demko
Jose Diao
Brandon Doggett
Savannah Guimbellot
Margarita Guzman
Braden Haas
Yijia Hao
Amber Harris
Christian Hawkins
Xiaotong He
Ben Heath
Sydney Heitkamp
Patrick Holden
McKinley Holding
Reilly Hollern
Brady Homer
Jiezheng Huang
Sophie Jackson
Khamari James
Genesis Jay
Yunlin Jin
Claire Juneau
Taeyoung Kang
Julia Kaufman
Mykhailo Khramtsov
Ariana Lacruz Ortiz
Sade Laitinen
Sophie Lewis
Zhuoheng Li
Yulong Lu
Theresa Dowling
Kamran Duenwald
Zakaria El-Helw
Taina Familia
Ana Clara Farias De Sousa
Salma Farid
Nathaniel Fenne
Lucia Fernandez-Rodriguez
Kamden Feth
Martina Font Nelson
Daniel Foster
Manuela Freyre Goncalves
James Funk
Bernardo Garcia Manzano Caudillo
Sophia Gegg
Nicholas Geller
Samantha (Sam) Gerena
Mykhailo Golod
Eduarda Gomes
Tyler Gomes
Natalia Gonzalez Matabuena
William Grabham
Andrew Grady
Anastasia Guerrero Amato
Calum MacAnthony
Christian Magruder
William Marshall
Alexander Masson
Jaxon McCormick
Stephen Mealey
Enrique Mediato Diaz
Yuanjin Mei
Imogen Migliorese
Antonio Mihovilovic
Bernardo Monteleone Matuck
Marco Munoz Bezerra
Kya Blu Murnan
Sebastian Navarro Vascotto
Trevor Hon Kai Ng
Hao Van Nguyen
Khai Quang Nguyen
Ethan Nichols
Amanda Noto Sela
Daniel Nussbaum
Mariana Oliveira Gandin
Jaime Palomino Blanch
Kaylan Patel
Thereza Cristina Pedrazini De Castilho
Marc Qi
Yetong Qian
John Rafferty
Hira Rasul
Lily Redman
Natalia Roca
Charles Ross
Sarah Safko
Melody Sancio
Carolina Scherer Stelzer
Ava Schubert
Liliana Sedo
Deniz Sener
Zahra Shahid
Zainab Shamim
Tyler Simmons
Christopher Edvard Sprauten
Taylor Stone
Sean Stromberg
Yixuan Sun
Omar Tabbara
Zayd Tawam
Kendyl Taylor
Nirekh Ian Pawan Tejwani
Allison Terrassa
Truc Tran
Sakshi Trivedi
Derin Unal
Serra Unal
Aryan Verma
Pedro Viana Teixeira
Rogerio Villaca Szuster
Abby Walsh
Yike Wang
Luke Weber
Teegan Weinstein
Nicholas West
Beth Wharton
Joshua Yacktman
Zhengyang Yi
Weijie Yu
Zerui Yu
Zhijie Yu
Yaxuan Zheng
Xinnuo Zhou
Phillip Zhu
Arrate Ziskar Goni
Kirill Zubov
Catherine Pena
Cayden Plotkin
Gregory Polo
To the Class of 2024, Alongside every member of our Laker community, I offer my heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to the Class of 2024. am proud of what each of you has accomplished as you have Learned, Performed, Competed, Created and now Graduated Like A Laker, and look forward to seeing all that you do in the years ahead. As you take on the path in front of you, I encourage you to hold true to the spirit of Virtus, Veritas and Unitas and continue to Live Like A Laker in every step you take. Your WPS community will always be here to cheer you on. Best wishes, graduates! DR. MITCHELL SALERNO
As we finally finish out this school year, I’m so proud of how far you’ve come. You’ve shown hard work, persistence and joy in difficult circumstances. Although the years have been difficult, you’ve pushed through. I’m so proud to watch each of you walk across the stage to receive your diploma, regardless of how long you have been at CFCA.
Just remember — Once an Eagle, Always an Eagle.
Congratulations to the graduating seniors of Class 2024. Your hard work, resilience, and spirit have left a lasting impact on our school. Best wishes for continued success in college, careers, and beyond. You make us proud!
VALEDICTORIAN
Analise Vai Williams
SALUTATORIAN Ava Eisenstein
GRADUATION
11
CRENSHAW ACADEMY
“ NOTE FROM THE PRINCIPAL
countless ways.
GRADUATES
Milania
Ava Eisenstein
Mateo Ferrer
Emilio Piza Navarro
Jessica Reed
Annalise Vai Williams
“ NOTE FROM THE PRINCIPAL
Congratulations to the Class of 2024! am thankful for all of you. Your dedication, hard work and perseverance has paid off. Remember to always put God first in your life and there is nothing you cannot achieve.
— Kristi G. Faircloth
LIGHT
CHRISTIAN
ACADEMY
GRADUATION
GRADUATES
Yesi Yaneth Ambrocio Vasquez
Damian Cendejas
Cristopher Moises Miranda-Orozco
Francisca Mirella Miranda Mazariegos
Meariah Lei Odom
Gibson Grandville Smith
Dear Graduating Seniors, Congratulations on reaching this significant milestone in your lives! As we close the chapter on the 2023-2024 school year, I am filled with pride and admiration for each and every one of you.
Reflecting on your journey with us, it’s awe-inspiring to witness the remarkable growth and development you’ve undergone. From the eager freshmen who walked through our doors to the poised and accomplished individuals you’ve become today, you have truly enriched our school community in
As you embark on the next chapter of your lives ± whether it’s pursuing higher education, entering the workforce or exploring new opportunities — urge you to carry with you the invaluable lessons and experiences you’ve gained during your time at Crenshaw. Your academic achievements have laid a strong foundation for your future endeavors, but it’s your character, resilience, and compassion that will truly set you apart. I challenge you to approach every challenge with determination, every setback as an opportunity for growth, and every interaction with kindness and empathy. Remember that your actions have the power to make a positive impact on the world around you, no matter how small they may seem.
As you navigate the uncertainties and excitement that lie ahead, always keep in mind the profound words of Maya Angelou: “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” Strive to leave a lasting impression through your words and deeds, and never underestimate the significance of spreading kindness and joy wherever you go. On behalf of the entire faculty and staff, extend our heartfelt congratulations to each of you. Your achievements are a testament to your hard work, dedication, and unwavering determination, and we couldn’t be prouder to have been a part of your journey. As you spread your wings and soar into the future, know that you will always have a home here at Crenshaw. We eagerly anticipate hearing about your continued successes and accomplishments, and we have no doubt that you will continue to make us proud.
Congratulations, Class of 2024! May your futures be bright, your dreams limitless, and your impact profound. With warmest regards, Tanya Williams
BRENDA CRENSHAW Head of School TANYA WILLIAMS Principal
Legacy High School
“It’s hard for me to believe that taught some of (you) math when (you) were tiny freshmen and sophomores. Time truly does fly by.
You are an amazing group of young people. Your scholarship and leadership abilities are unmatched. I am especially proud of how you organized the first annual “Walk for Water” event at Legacy that saw nearly 300 students raise more than $3,000 (enough to sponsor a well in Africa through WorldVision). One-hundred percent of you will graduate this year, and you can mark my words — you will go on to do amazing things. I tip my hat to you all.
— Maurio Medley
Courtesy photos
Innovation Montessori High School
have had the pleasure of watching you grow and mature over the past couple of years. Each day, am more and more amazed by the incredible humans that you have become. I’m so excited to see what the future has in store for you. want you to know that you are loved, admired and appreciated. The efforts you have put forth into making IMHS a great place to learn will continue to ring out for many years to come. You are leaving a wonderful legacy of commitment, determination, kindness, leadership and success. am so proud of you. Congratulations, Class of 2024! Jared Stewart
CONGRATULATIONS!
You grew through adversity, overcame
and became a confident young woman. I encourage you to continue to make the world a better place with your soft and gentle forgiveness. I hope you’re as proud as I am of the woman you’ve become.
CLASS OF 2024
Congratulations, Kyle! We love you and are proud of all that you have accomplished.
new journey begins!
Love,
Ava, we are so proud of all that you have worked so hard for and accomplished this far! Your perseverance and drive have brought you to this milestone and will continue to take you to new heights at UCF! We love you very much and are cheering you on in this next Chapter of your story! Congratulations on all you have
We are so very proud of you Bri! You have overcome many obstacles these past four years, but your strength and kind heart have gotten you here! The sky is the limit for your big dreams!
We love you! Papi, Mami, Cyara & Marina!
CONGRATULATIONS!
MS. GOLUB AND MRS. WELLS, DR. PHILLIPS HIGH
CFCA Class of 2024: Your unique perspectives always kept things interesting, your boldness always made an impression, and your ability to connect with others surpassed expectations. I pray that your futures are filled with both joy and purpose and that God’s grace accompanies you on the journey ahead.
Congratulations, Nathan! Graduate and Eagle Scout. We are proud of the young man you have become. Go Knights, Charge On!
- Mom & Dad
Carly, Congratulations on all of your accomplishments throughout high school and for achieving your dream of playing college softball. We are incredibly proud of you and excited for next your chapter. The future is yours!
Mom and Dad
CLASS OF 2024
Congratulations on graduating high school with your AICE diploma! We are so proud of you and can’t wait to see everything you accomplish on your next adventure, college! Hotty Toddy! Love You! Dad, Mom, Kaleigh, Emma & Brayden
Wyatt! You’ve
MARK RUBERT, CFCA
God has more in store for you than you can ever imagine.
We love you!
Mom & Dad
This is just the beginning of all that God has planned for you. We believe you can rule the world. As was said to David... “Go, and the Lord be with you!” 1 Sam. 17:37
Love, Mom, Dad, Jordan & Bryson
Congratulations!
CHRISTINE M. MURPHY, HORIZON HIGH
As your senior class sponsor, I want you to know that each one of you holds a special place in my heart; I want you to know how proud I am of all that you have accomplished. I hope that your time here at Horizon is something you can reflect back on and cherish. The memories, laughter, friends, teachers and all the little movements added together that defined your senior year. I appreciate all of you, and I am grateful to have been part of your journey. As you prepare for this new horizon in your life — whether it’s pursuing higher education, entering the workforce, or exploring other creative paths — I have no doubt that you will continue to soar to new heights and make us all proud. Congratulations, Class of 2024; you did it!
The sky is the limit!
Your tenacity will get you to all the places you dream of. Everything you want is achievable with faith, a humble attitude, commitment, and discipline.
Te amamos al infinito.
Papi, Mami, Ab & J
Foundation
G AGUIRRE
Congratulations!
“Commit
We are so proud of you and can’t wait to watch your new adventure unfold! Love, Mom, Dad, and Jacob
Foundation Academy congratulates you on your success and wishes you the best as you continue a lifetime of learning and spiritual growth!
LIONS!
Foundation
Foundation
Foundation Academy congratulates you on your success and wishes you the best as you continue a lifetime of learning and spiritual growth!
CLASS OF 2024
Scottie, we are so proud of you. You have become such a wonderful, young man. You have brought us so much joy. We are so excited to be celebrating you. Keep following after Jesus! Love, Mom, Kikki, Maddie and your great big family
MS. GOLUB AND MRS. WELLS, DR. PHILLIPS HIGH 402550-1
We could not be more proud of your incredible resilience, good humor and compassion for one another. You started your high school journey in the midst of a pandemic; many of you didn’t step foot on campus at all your freshman year. Although you struggled to get to know your teachers and classmates along with trying to learn at home on your own with Instagram and TikTok vying for your attention, you persevered. You keep trying and have come so far. You have made us laugh with your sensational style and creative ways to carry your school materials (whoever knew that a playhouse or foosball table could serve as a backpack!) Mostly, though, the way in which you have cared for one another and helped each other along this journey is beyond admirable. You are truly compassionate humans to the core, and we could not be more proud to have sponsored you this year. We anticipate the news of all of the great things you have yet to accomplish and magnificent journeys you have yet to embark upon. Please keep in touch, because once a Panther, always a Panther! Awwwwww, DP!
MS. GOLUB AND MRS. WELLS, DR. PHILLIPS HIGH
Foundation Academy congratulates you on your success and wishes you the best as you continue a lifetime of learning and spiritual growth!
SCOTTIE CONOVER University of Central Florida; Business
Foundation Academy congratulates you on your success and wishes you the best as you continue a lifetime of learning and spiritual growth!
Foundation Academy congratulates you on your success and wishes you the best as you continue a lifetime of
Dear
Foundation Academy congratulates you on your success and wishes you the best as you continue a lifetime of learning and spiritual growth!
MS. GOLUB AND MRS. WELLS, DR. PHILLIPS HIGH
Lion 2024 graduates: Remember the laughter shared, the challenges overcome and the friendships made at Foundation Academy. Each step you take holds the promise of adventure and growth. Embrace the future and know that your potential knows no bounds; God’s love for you will never end! Farewell, your journey awaits.
CLASS OF 2024
Dear Joshua, we are so proud of your hard work throughout all the school years. God will guide you to achieve your dreams. Keep growing your faith, emotions, and knowledge to make a difference and a better world. Congratulations! Mom &
CLASS OF 2024
GO LIONS!
Foundation Academy congratulates you on your success and wishes you the best as you continue a lifetime of learning and spiritual growth!
You’re
you
become and are excited to see you grow even more at Lipscomb. “Wear Sunscreen!”
- Mom, Dad and Sam
CLASS OF 2024
Congratulations
Foundation Academy congratulates you on your success and wishes you the best as you continue a
Foundation
Foundation Academy congratulates you on your success and wishes you the best as you continue a lifetime of learning and spiritual growth!
Congratulations, Drew! We are so proud of you! Love, Mom, Dad, Ryan and Morgan
“All it takes is faith and trust.” You have proven that you can accomplish anything with faith and perseverance! You are amazing, and we can’t wait to see where the journey takes you (us). Love, your familia
Congratulations, Class of 2024! As you complete this chapter at The First Academy, we are thankful for the legacy you leave here through your leadership, academic excellence, and commitment to serving others. We are excited to see your journey ahead, transforming the world we live in. May you continue to trust in God’s plans in all that you do!
MS. GOLUB AND MRS. WELLS, DR. PHILLIPS HIGH
DREW FLOURNOY
Foundation Academy congratulates you on your success and wishes you the best as you continue a lifetime of learning and spiritual growth!
Foundation Academy congratulates you on your success and wishes you the best as you continue a lifetime of learning and spiritual growth!
Foundation Academy congratulates you on your success and wishes you the best as you continue a lifetime of learning and spiritual growth!
Foundation Academy congratulates you on your success and wishes you the best as you continue a lifetime of learning and spiritual growth!
As you venture into a world beyond the walls of Windermere High School, take with you the memories, bonds, lifelong friendships, and lessons learned. Your laughter, presence, dreams and hope filled our days. Good luck, and know you carry a piece of our hearts wherever you go. Whoop, Whoop Wolverines!
Your unwavering dedication and perseverance consistently surpass our expectations, filling us with immense pride. We are incredibly proud not just of your achievements but also of the remarkableperson you’ve become. May God continue to bless you abundantly, our dear son. Male & Johann
Foundation
We are so incredibly proud of you. Continue to shine bright. Never forget to always be the best version of yourself! We love you! Mom &
Foundation Academy congratulates you on your success and wishes you the best as you continue a lifetime of learning and spiritual growth!
but to your
We are so proud of you and know you will succeed no matter what you do! We all love you so much!
MALACHI
“But seek first the kingdom of
We
CLASS OF 2024
Foundation Academy congratulates you on your success and wishes you the best as you continue a lifetime of learning and spiritual growth!
EMYBI CABALLERO, MONTVERDE ACADEMY
Farewell and congratulations to the graduating Class of 2024! Remember that your journey does not end here; it is just the beginning. Cherish the memories, friendships and lessons you have learned during your time at Montverde Academy. Wishing you all the best in your future and great success in the journey ahead.
Foundation Academy congratulates you
Congratulations, Briana! Your graduation marks the beginning of a remarkable journey. Embrace every opportunity, stay true to yourself, and continue to shine bright. Wishing you a future filled with success and happiness.
Foundation Academy congratulates you on your success and wishes you the best as you continue a lifetime of learning and spiritual
Tyler - You Did It!!!!
We are so proud of you, always follow your passion in life!!! “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.”
- Eleanor Roosevelt
Go be great!!!!
Love always, Mom, Dad & Weston
CLASS OF 2024
Be bold, be courageous and be your
Congratulations on your high
graduation! I am so incredibly proud of you! You future is so bright and I can’t wait to see what God has in store for you! Go NOLES!! Love, Mom
Congratulations on your graduation, Ra! Today marks a significant milestone in your life. As you step into the next chapter, remember to pursue your dreams with determination and kindness. We are incredibly proud of you and excited to see what the future holds. Always believe in yourself and keep reaching for the stars. Mom and Dad
To my beautiful daughter, always remember: You are an amazing girl, and we can’t wait to see how God guides your life. He is always with you and will never forsake you. We are so proud of you.
-Love always, Mom, Dad, Justin, Rayden, Layla, Jaylynn and Ayden
CLASS OF 2024
Congratulations on your graduation. You have worked so hard and we are so proud of you. May God always bless you and keep you safe.
All of our love, Mom and Alex
This is the beginning of yet another journey of your life. You have made us so proud. Always remember we love you so much and wish you the best of luck! Congrats son! Love, Mom, Dad & Scarlett
Congratulations to our Ocoee Class of 2024! This year has been amazing teaching you, along with being your sponsors. It was a pleasure building relationships with you. Continue being amazing! We know each of you will succeed in whatever path you choose in life! We wish you all the best of luck after high school!
Congratulations, Abby! You are graduating! We are so incredibly proud of you! Your hard work, dedication and discipline have paid off. We know you will continue to achieve great things. We love you! Jeanine and John, Jerry and Lindsey, Nick
Foundation Academy congratulates you on your success and wishes you the best as you continue a lifetime of learning and spiritual
You are an inspiration to everyone you know. Your faith, hard work, and dedication have paid off in the classroom and on the game field. We are beyond proud of you! Keep up the great work and keep God 1st!
We are the makers of music & the dreamers of dreams. Go be the change you want to see in this world.
- Love Mom, Dad and Jorja
You are graduating! We are so very proud of you and the young woman you have become. You can accomplish anything you set your heart and mind to! We love you so much. -Mom & Dad
DYLAN THACKURDEEN
Foundation Academy congratulates you on your success and wishes you the best as you continue a lifetime of learning and spiritual growth!
We are so proud of your hard work and cannot wait to see you excel in your next journey to FSU! Always remember that we are here for you and love you to infinity and beyond!! Go save the planet Bug!!!
Love, Mom, Dad, Jacob and Zach
CONGRATULATIONS!
“I know the plans I have for you, plans to prosper you, to give you hope and future.” Jeremiah 29:11 We’re so incredibly proud of you! Can’t wait to watch you in this next chapter.
Love, Mom, Dad & Sisters
Foundation Academy congratulates you on your success and wishes you the best as you continue a lifetime of learning and spiritual growth!
CLASS OF 2024
Foundation Academy congratulates you on your success and wishes you the best as you continue a lifetime of learning and spiritual growth!
Melia, We are so incredibly proud of your accomplishment. May God guide you in your talents as you go out into this new adventure. Looking forward to celebrating more successes on the horizon.
Congratulations! Love, Mom, Dad, Liam and Zoe
CONGRATULATIONS!
Foundation Academy congratulates you on your success and wishes you the best as you continue a lifetime of learning and spiritual growth!
CLASS
Congratulations, Lexa, on all your accomplishments. It has been a wonderful journey watching you grow into an intelligent, witty, successful young woman. Wishing you all the best as you begin the next chapter. ~ Love you! Mom, Dad and Shanna
Congratulations, Sam! We are so proud of you and the fine man that you’ve become. Your perseverance is inspiring, and we look forward to seeing so much more. Love, Mom, Dad and Ben 2nd Timothy 4:7
Your hard work, drive, and dedication have paid off, Sam, and we’re so proud of you! We can’t wait to see what God has in store for your future. We love you so much! -Mom, Dad, and Katie
I am so glad that God picked me to be your momma. I’m proud of your accomplishments and can’t wait to see what’s next. Jer 29:11
27,611 Completed Hours of Community Service
714 College Acceptances including Brown University, University of Pennsylvania, Georgetown University, The University of Chicago,
20 Students have been a Laker since Preschool or Kindergarten.
