Issuu

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

Observer Winter Garden, Ocoee, Oakland

YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.

FREE • THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2026

VOLUME 93, NO. 32

Ah, ah, ah, ah stayin’ alive! Ocoee Lakeshore Center was the perfect venue for the disco-themed Pink Affair Friday, July 31. 22A.

YOUR TOWN EARLY VOTING BEGINS IN ORANGE COUNTY Through Sunday, Aug. 16, county residents have the opportunity to cast an early vote for the 2026 Primary Election. All registered voters are able to vote early with a non-expired photo and signature ID. West Orange and Southwest Orange locations include:

Courtesy photos

The Winter Garden Community Chior has performed in Vatican City in Italy. Left: Nicole Kimmel is able to sing under the direction of Dr. Jeffrey Redding once again as a member of the Winter Garden Community Choir. He was her director at West Orange High.

Note worthy

n Southwest Library at 7255 Della Drive, Orlando n West Oaks Library at 1821 E. Silver Star Road, Ocoee n Tibet-Butler Preserve at 8777 County Road 535, Orlando n Orange County National Golf Center at 16301 Phil Ritson Way, Winter Garden n Winter Garden Library at 805 E. Plant St., Winter Garden. For more information and additional voting sites, visit voteorangefl.gov/vote-early.

CANDIDATE

Q&A

The Winter Garden Community Choir is celebrating 20 years of unity, giving back to the community and creating new experiences for its members. STORY ON PAGE 4A.

Overestimated Oakland property values result in town budget deficit Oakland’s Finance Director Gaby Leon said the town’s general budget was overestimated by $11 million. PAGE 6A.

BRAIN

FOOD

COOL CATS

We celebrate International Cat Day with feline facts. SEE 19A.

FRIDAY NIGHT SIGHTS Get ready for the 2026 prep football season with our exclusive preview. SEE PAGE 15A.

Three democrats compete for Daniel Webster’s former seat in the U.S. House of Representatives. 3A.

OBSERVER | THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2026

OrangeObserver.com

FAST

rant’s theme to life with decorations and dishes, just as they do at the bakehouse. An opening date has not been released yet, but the full menu has been launched. Visit disneysprings.com/dining/ six-ravens to view the complete menu.

2 1

Courtesy photos

The cath lab team at Dr. P. Phillips Hospital was excited about the new addition.

Florida Department of Health opens new office in Ocoee The Florida Department of Health in Orange County’s Environmental Public Health opened a new office Monday, Aug. 3, in Ocoee. According to DOH’s announcement, the Ocoee office will allow residents to submit and process applications for programs such as on-site sewage disposal, groupcare facilities, body piercing, indoor air quality, rabies surveillance and more. “This expansion underscores DOH-Orange’s commitment to supporting a safe and healthy environment for all Orange County residents,” officials said in the announcement. The new office is open from 8 a.m.

to 5 p.m. Mondays through Fridays at 75 Story Road, Suite 1, Ocoee. For more information, call 407858-1497.

New restaurant to open at Disney Springs A new restaurant is being added to Disney Springs’ dining scene. According to Disney Springs, Six Ravens will have a modern take on medieval eats, such as hand pies called “coffyns” and beers. The restaurant is located next to Morimoto Asia and in front of Paradiso 37. The owners of Gideon’s Bakehouse also own the restaurant and will bring the restau-

457671-1

Parents continue search for missing teen in Winter Garden Parents continue to search for their missing 16-year-old son, who was last seen in Winter Garden. According to the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System, Chance Douglas Frier was last seen Thursday, June 25, on Lake Amberleigh Drive. Frier is described as a Caucasian male with blond/strawberry hair, brown eyes, standing 5-foot, 9-inches tall, and weighing around 155 pounds. His parents said he was last seen with his girlfriend. Winter Garden Police continue to investigate and search for Frier. Anyone with information regarding Frier’s whereabouts is to contact the WGPD at (407) 656-3636.

Dr. Phillips hospital expands access to heart failure care Orlando Health Dr. P. Phillips Hospital officials announced an expansion to its heart failure care. The cardiac catheterization lab team recently implanted its first sensor in a patient’s pulmonary artery to continuously monitor the pressure within the patient’s heart. The sensor is about the size of a paper clip and detects rising pressure in the heart to indicate early fluid accumulation and worsening heart failure. “This device enables monitoring between clinic visits so we can intervene early instead of reacting after symptoms worsen,” said Dr. Jacqueline Dawson Dowe, a cardiologist with Orlando Health Heart & Vascular Institute. “That means we can make timely adjustments to treatment, which can reduce hospitalizations. For our patients, it can also provide peace of mind, knowing that we’re staying on top of their heart health.” Interested patients must meet specific criteria before going through the outpatient procedure.

Ocoee’s Walmart soon to offer drone delivery services Walmart recently has partnered with Wing, a company that operates drone delivery services, to offer a new delivery method to its customers. According to Wing officials, this delivery-service option allows Central Florida residents and tourists to receive items quickly, as drones bypass traffic. Ocoee residents soon will be able to try the service themselves. Wing drones fly up to 60 mph and as low as about 20 feet onto a person’s property to safely lower the packages. Currently, the drones in Florida only can transport up to 2.5 pounds per flight, but Wing plans to increase it to 5 pounds in the future. The Walmart on Orange Blossom Trail in Apopka and on Johns Lake Road in Clermont already are offering the delivery drone service. Soon, the Ocoee Walmart will begin offering the drone delivery method. “We measure success in minutes saved and life made a little easier in Central Florida,” Wing Chief Business Officer Heather Rivera said. “Whether it’s helping a family grab a quick lunch without loading everyone into the car or delivering sunscreen to a visitor at their vacation rental, we want drone delivery to be a simple, seamless part of daily routines.”

Emergency care that’s in the neighborhood, and on your side.

Have a plan and find a location. Fast emergency care starts with a plan. Scan the QR code to find an Orlando Health ER location near you, with a dedicated team when you need them the most.

457885-1

OrangeObserver.com

OBSERVER | THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2026

MEET THE CANDIDATES

Florida’s 11th Congressional District — Democrats Before the Aug. 18 primary, the Observer will be publishing Q&As featuring candidates in key races that will appear on ballots in West Orange and Southwest Orange. This week, we introduce the democratic candidates for Florida’s 11th Congressional District. Three candidates — James Pericola, Royal Webster and Dan Williams — are vying to succeed Daniel Webster, who became a U.S. House representative in 2011 and in 2017 began representing Florida’s 11th District. Some responses have been edited because of space constraints. The entire, unedited responses are available at OrangeObserver.com.

JAMES PERICOLA

ROYAL WEBSTER

Age: 50 City/town of residence: Winter Garden Family: Wife, Mathilde; children, Luca, 17; Leo, 15; and Linnea, 6 Education: Bachelor’s degree in political science, The Catholic University of America; Juris Doctor degree, The Catholic University of America Qualifications: Small-business owner, 30 years of advocacy and organizing experience, champion for safe environmental practices and transportation safety, born and raised in Central Florida

Age: 64 City/town of residence: Winter Garden Family: Wife, four children, six grandchildren Education: Bachelor’s degree in history Qualifications: Former U.S. Army military intelligence analyst and veteran; public high school Spanish teacher; union member; actively involved in the community through coaching, mentoring and volunteer service; more than 40 years of proven leadership in both military and civilian life

What makes you the best candidate for Florida’s 11th Congressional District? I bring more than 30 years of experience in public service, law, government and legislative advocacy. I served in the Clinton administration, worked on complex policy issues and spent my career bringing people together to solve difficult problems.

What makes you the best candidate for Florida’s 11th Congressional District? My entire life has been about service. I served our country as a U.S. Army military intelligence analyst, am a public high school teacher, coached and mentored young people for (more than) 40 years and have remained active in my community through volunteer service. I understand leadership because I’ve lived it — in uniform, in the classroom and in my community. I am also a 100% grassroots candidate. I don’t come from a political family or a career in politics. I am running because I believe Congress needs more public servants and fewer politicians. I believe the best leaders spend more time listening than talking. Throughout this campaign, I’ve knocked on doors, attended community meetings and listened to the concerns of families across our district.

What are the key differences between you and your opponents? I’m not running to be a partisan voice or a political celebrity. I am running to represent the folks who call District 11 home. That means being present, accessible and focused on the issues people talk about at their kitchen tables — lowering costs, protecting Social Security and Medicare, improving health care and strengthening our economy. Voters are looking for serious, experienced leadership that puts results ahead of politics and that’s what I will bring to Congress. Evaluate outgoing U.S. Rep. Daniel Webster’s performance over his tenure in Congress. What did he do well? What would you do differently? Congressman Webster represented this district for many years, but his tenure fell short of the active, effective representation Central Florida deserved. While he spoke often about fiscal responsibility, he failed to pass substantive legislation that meaningfully improved life in this district. Too many constituents were also left without a representative who was consistently present, accessible and engaged in their communities. I will take a different approach both in the priorities I bring to Congress and in how I serve the district. Families are worried about the cost of groceries, housing, insurance and health care. Seniors want to know that Social Security and Medicare will be there when they need them, and I’ll focus my attention there. I will work to lower costs, protect the benefits people have earned and focus on solving problems rather than scoring political points. I will also maintain an active presence throughout the district, regularly meeting with residents, local leaders, businesses and community organizations. Give the current U.S. House a letter grade — A-F — and share how your presence would change that grade. I would give the current House of Representatives a D-. Congress recently showed that bipartisan progress is still possible by passing meaningful legislation to address the affordablehousing crisis, and that deserves recognition. But one significant accomplishment does not make up for a Congress that has largely ceded its role as a co-equal branch of government. Representatives spend too much time on political theater and too little time confronting the problems families face every day. Congress should be conducting vigorous oversight, defending its constitutional authority and holding any administration accountable when it oversteps. One member of Congress will not change the grade overnight, but I will do my part to improve it. I will show up, work across the aisle when it serves this district and stay focused on delivering results instead of headlines. Discuss three tangible ways constituents will experience your presence as their representative in the U.S. House. My mentor, Sen. Bob Graham, taught me that public service comes down to three things: Show up, listen and do the work. That is how I intend to represent this district. I will be present throughout District 11, holding regular town halls and meeting with residents, local leaders, businesses and community organizations in every part of the district — not just during election season. My office will be accessible and responsive when constituents need help navigating Social Security, Medicare, veterans’ benefits or another federal agency. And

What are the key differences between you and your opponents? I am the only candidate who is both a U.S. Army veteran and a public school educator, giving me firsthand experience serving our country in uniform and serving our community in the classroom. I have also earned the endorsement of multiple democratic caucuses and organizations, reflecting broad support from leaders who share my commitment to public service. While many campaigns focus on identifying problems, my campaign is focused on offering practical solutions. I believe voters deserve more than criticism — they deserve a clear vision and a plan to make life more affordable, strengthen public education, support our veterans, protect our environment and improve the quality of life for every family in our district. Evaluate outgoing U.S. Rep. Daniel Webster’s performance over his tenure in Congress. What did he do well? What would you do differently? While Congressman Daniel Webster’s political views differ from mine on many issues, I respect that he has served this district consistently according to his principles and beliefs. Where I believe he fell short was in being equally available to all of his constituents. Effective leadership means representing everyone in your district, including those who disagree with you. Leadership requires making difficult decisions, and no elected official will make everyone happy. However, one of the most important qualities of a leader is accessibility. A member of Congress should be willing to meet with, listen to and engage with all constituents — not just those who share their views. Political leadership is about making tough decisions, being accountable for those decisions, and being available to explain and discuss them with the people you represent, regardless of whether those decisions are popular or unpopular. Representing a politically diverse and geographically large district of approximately 890,000 people presents unique challenges, but those challenges are not an excuse for being unavailable. I believe one of the most important responsibilities of a member of Congress is to be accessible, to listen and to maintain an open dialogue with the people they represent. Give the current U.S. House a letter grade — A-F — and share how your presence would change that grade. I would give the current U.S. House of Representatives a D. While there are many dedicated public servants serving in Congress, too much time is spent on partisan conflict, political theater and fundraising instead of solving the everyday problems facing American families. The American people deserve a Congress that is more accountable, more collaborative and more focused on results than rhetoric. I believe my presence would help move that grade to a B. I cannot change Congress by myself, but I can change how I represent Florida’s 11th Congressional District and the example I set.

DAN WILLIAMS

Age: 48 City/town of residence: Orlando Family: Partner, Rei; and a corgi/ Australian shepherd mix, Jolene Education: Degree in interdisciplinary engineering with a focus in telecommunications, Purdue University Qualifications: Educator for more than 20 years

What makes you the best candidate for Florida’s 11th Congressional District? I am the best candidate for District 11 because I am running to fundamentally change how Congress works. The current system assumes one person can adequately represent 800,000 people without ever asking for their opinion. That is an outdated and broken model. Our district is incredibly diverse, and the rigid, all-or-nothing politics in Washington leaves too many people feeling unrepresented and cynical about the system. My campaign is built on a simple premise: bringing the power back directly to the voters. Through my Direct Democracy platform, I am building a system where constituents can vote directly on federal legislation using secure mobile technology. I am pledging to cast my official vote according to the majority will of our district. This isn’t about left or right; it is about radical transparency and ensuring that every single person in District 11 has a voice, even if we disagree. I am an engineer who wants to use technology to decentralize power and finally give you the true representation you deserve. What are the key differences between you and your opponents? My key difference is my main platform of Digital Democracy. The main idea is very simple: you vote; I listen. For every major bill or law we try to pass up in D.C., I will make an educational video that helps explain that law. Explaining exactly what a “yes” or “no” vote means using only facts instead of any kind of political party messaging. My goal is for people to understand the laws we are trying to pass. At the end of that video, I will give my opinion about what I think is best for our community, but this will be clearly labeled as an opinion and not fact. After that, we will open it up to a district-wide vote using the Digital Democracy project, to allow each resident one secure vote on that bill. Whatever the majority opinion is on that vote becomes my direct vote up in D.C. I am running to put the power back directly in the hands of the people. Evaluate outgoing U.S. Rep. Daniel Webster’s performance over his tenure in Congress. What did he do well? What would you do differently? I would fully adopt Rep. Webster’s commitment to protecting seniors. Eliminating the double tax on Social Security is a priority I will continue to champion. Furthermore, his work securing funds for Everglades restoration and local infrastructure is vital for Florida, and I would aggressively pursue similar locally driven investments. While I respect his votes for a balanced budget amendment to ensure fiscal responsibility, I would alter our long-term approach by demanding stronger structural accountability. I will pair fiscal restraints with a firm commitment to term limits, ensuring career politicians cannot continually delay difficult financial decisions. Additionally, I would prioritize technological transparency, utilizing direct constituent polling platforms to ensure every vote I cast on infrastructure and budget bills genuinely reflects the real-time will of District 11 instead of partisan expectations. Give the current U.S. House a letter grade — A-F — and share how your presence would change that grade. D. This house has been so divided that nothing is getting done. I plan on working with everyone to find solutions that everyone can accept. I think we are too stuck in our party alliances and that needs to change. We need to be able to have real debates on issues instead of just blindly backing what your party chooses. Discuss three tangible ways constituents will experience your presence as their representative in the U.S. House. First with my Direct Democracy platform, I will be held accountable to my district on every vote. Your voice will be heard and counted. Through my educational videos you will also hear from me on every major issue. Secondly, my in-district offices will be open to all. I plan on offering digital literacy classes for

CANDIDATE ANSWERS CONTINUED ON PAGE 8A

OrangeObserver.com

OBSERVER | THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2026

Observer “If we are to build a better world, we must remember that the guiding principle is this — a policy of freedom for the individual is the only truly progressive policy.” Friedrich Hayek

“Road to Serfdom,” 1944 Editor and Publisher / Michael Eng, meng@OrangeObserver.com Design Editor / Jessica Eng, jeng@OrangeObserver.com Managing Editor / Liz Ramos, lramos@OrangeObserver.com Historian / Amy Quesinberry Price, amyqhistory@OrangeObserver.com Staff Writer / Megan Bruinsma, mbruinsma@OrangeObserver.com Staff Writer / Leticia Silva, lsilva@OrangeObserver.com

The Winter Garden Community Choir has performed at the Disney Candlelight Processional at Epcot.

Local choir celebrates two decades of song LIZ RAMOS MANAGING EDITOR

inging on stage at Carnegie Hall in New York City always was on Nicole Kimmel’s bucket list. She always seemed to narrowly miss her high school or college choir trips to the famed music hall. But last year, Kimmel finally was able to take then storied stage — just not as a student. After years of missing out on opportunities to sing at Carnegie Hall throughout her educational career, Kimmel sang her heart out and made a dream come true with the Winter Garden Community Choir, a local group of singers from around the Central Florida area under the direction of Dr. Jeffrey Redding, who was Kimmel’s choir director at West Orange High School before she graduated in 2017. She still was able to explore New York City, spend time with friends in the choir and perform a large choir piece that was exciting for her to learn in a beautiful space that was breathtaking and satisfying. That’s the power of the Winter Garden Community Choir. No matter a person’s age or background, the choir gives people a chance to make their dreams come true and unite a community of music lovers to give back to the community at large. The Winter Garden Community Choir will come together once again for its first rehearsal Monday, Aug. 17, at West Orange High School, the school where it all began 20 years ago.

‘PART OF SOMETHING THAT’S SO BEAUTIFUL’

In 2007, Bert and Barbara Roper, who were working on refurbishing the Garden Theatre in downtown Winter Garden, approached Redding, who was the choir director at West Orange High School at the time, about creating a community choir. With assistance from city leaders, Redding brought together 30 singers with the first performance being at the Garden Theatre. Since then, Redding said the choir has taken off running, growing in size to more than 200 singers who come from far and wide to participate in the choir. Some even virtually join rehearsals from out of state who have connections to Winter Garden and fly to the Orlando area to perform with the choir. Choir membership has increased to the point Redding created the Orlando Choral Society, an umbrella organization that includes Winter Garden Community Choir and other ensembles. Now 20 years later, Redding will see

JOIN THE CHOIR Anyone is welcome to the Winter Garden Community Choir. It is a non-audition choir, so Artistic Director Dr. Jeffrey Redding invites anyone interested in singing to the first rehearsal Monday, Aug. 17, at West Orange High School. For more information, visit orlandochoralsociety.com.

Courtesy photos

The Winter Garden Community Choir always sings with passion.

his choir come together once again for the first rehearsal of the season in the same room the artistic director once taught in at West Orange High starting in 1996. He earned a Grammy for teaching while at West Orange. “West Orange High School has still been so dear to me and will always have a special place in my heart, because that’s where I found myself, having that wonderful community of people to serve and learning how we can serve our community,” Redding said. “I learned how to be a servantleader while teaching high school. ” The choir still will sing the same song Redding had the original Winter Garden Community Choir sing in its inaugural year, “Unity” — a song about bringing people of all different backgrounds together to show people are stronger together. Redding said it’s humbling to see how far the choir has come, and he has realized over the years it’s not about him but rather about “what’s been given to you to give away.” He said there always will be doubters, but he knows the uniqueness of the Winter Garden Community Choir and what it offers to those in it and those it serves. “You just open your arms and you say this is a place where you belong if you so choose, and if you don’t, that’s fine,” he said. “I know what we’re about here, and so to realize this and to understand that Winter Garden was a very different place when I came here 20 years ago and to see and realize how far we’ve come in accepting each other for who we are through the power of music, wow. I can be a small part of something that’s so beautiful. I am absolutely blown away by it.” POWER OF MUSIC

Every time the choir gathers for rehearsal, Redding said it can be healing and life-changing. It’s about a group of people coming together to create not only beautiful music but also a community. “You’re doing more than just singing,” he said. “You’re talking to people. You’re talking to people who are not like you. You’re talking to people who are like you, so we get to break the bounds of stereotypes that have dogged us for centuries, and you get to sing music of all styles.” As a non-audition choir, people of all ages, backgrounds and experiences are welcome to join. There are college students, retirees, parents and their children, husbands and wives, music teachers, people who simply have a

MARK YOUR CALENDAR The Winter Garden Community Choir will perform numerous times this season. Don’t miss these concerts: n First concert: 7 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 11, at West Orange High School n Holiday festival: 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 19, at West Orange High School n MLK concert: 7 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 21, at Steinmetz Hall

passion for music and everyone inbetween. “Any time you get in an environment that people really appreciate and love the art form, it’s such a nurturing environment to be in,” said Jim Cunningham, who has been a member of the choir for the past five years. “It’s a lot of fun, and it’s a lot of growth. Having those different generations interact is fantastic. There’s so many different perspectives and approaches to the art form that I love it.” The unifying power of music is a learning experience for singers, such as Kimmel, who has been with the choir since 2021. “It’s really nice to be able to sit next to someone who just has so much wisdom and stories and experiences to share, and then on your other side, there can be someone who’s a freshman in college, and everything is new for them,” she said. “It just adds a lot of unity and more color to the choir.” For Redding, it’s the simple smile on his singers’ faces as they rock or throw their hands up enthralled in the music. It was the grandmother crying on stage at Carnegie Hall in New York because she never imagined she actually would be there performing. It’s the person sitting in a chair so captivated by the music that he or she can’t help but rock back and forth while smiling and singing along. “It touches my heart when a person says to me, ‘I never thought I was good enough, but here I am now,’” he said. Every year, he said there are members who are surprised to see how far they have come musically, finding their voice whether it’s been 10 years since they sang or they’re singing in front of a group for the first time. The novice singer learns how to match pitch. They relish the process before savoring the final performance after numerous rehearsals. Cunningham continues to return

after five years because he’s always learning each year. It’s the opportunity to become a little bit better under Redding’s guidance and leadership as he uses his “tremendous insights into the art form” to elevate the choir, Cunningham said. Even if he’s tired after a long day and might not want to go to rehearsal, he said he attends because he always comes back energized and appreciative of the experience. A significant reason members said they return year after year is Redding. His charisma, passion and dedication to the choir, the community and giving back is inspirational. Chad McClellan, a founding member of the choir, has known Redding since he was a freshman at West Orange High in 1997, and Redding was his choir director. When Redding was starting the choir, he called McClellan to ask him to help recruit members. McClellan’s 30 years with Redding inspired him to start a community choir in Clermont, and he’s used the techniques he’s learned from his director with his own choir. “My passion for singing and music have come from working with Dr. Redding over the past three decades,” he said. “Dr. Redding has a really good way of kind of doing a deep dive into the text and what it means and how it’s very significant to what you’re singing and the way it’s written. There’s moments of epiphanies that happen with the music where it kind of clicks in everybody’s head and the sound changes because your viewpoint on the piece changes. Those are always really big moments.” ‘YOU REALLY JUST HAVE TO BE THERE’

Whether the choir members are new to singing or have been singing all their lives, the Winter Garden Community Choir provides new experiences for all involved. The bodies of work Redding cultivates for each concert is something every member looks forward to learning, especially for annual performances such as the Martin Luther King Jr. concert at Steinmetz Hall in the Dr. Phillips Performing Arts Center. Each year, the performance captivates not only the audience but also the choir, and it has become a favorite performance of many in the choir. Cunningham said there aren’t words to describe the emotion and exhilaration a person has in witnessing the extraordinary performances during the MLK concert. “You really just have to be there,” he said. Over the years, the group has traveled to Ireland, Italy and New York. McClellan said being a part of the ensemble and traveling with the group has been life-changing. “We can stay (in Central Florida), and that’s great because we want to be in our community, seeing our community, but experiences different places, singing at different venues, experiencing different cultures and performing for folks from not only different states but also different countries and bringing all those people together is an incredible experience,” he said. In the next 20 years, Redding wants to see the choir continue to grow but continue its same standard of highlevel, non-audition singing with a tradition of giving back to the community. He wants the group to continue to travel, and the choir already has plans to travel July 3-9, 2027, to Paris. “I want this choir to be one of the anchors that can bring our cities together through song,” he said. “I want this group to be a representation of a beloved community.”

Multimedia Sales Manager / Cyndi Gustafson, advertising@OrangeObserver.com Multimedia Advertising Executive / Iggy Collazo, iggy@OrangeObserver.com Graphic Designer / Sarah Santiago, ssantiago@OrangeObserver.com Advertising Operations Manager / Allison Brunelle, abrunelle@OrangeObserver.com

The West Orange Times, West Orange Times & Observer and Southwest Orange Observer are published once weekly, on Thursdays. The papers can be found in many commercial locations throughout West Orange and Southwest Orange. If you wish to subscribe, visit our website, OrangeObserver.com, call (407) 656-2121 or visit our office, 210 S. Dillard St., Winter Garden, Florida 34787.

TO ADVERTISE

For display or digital advertising, call (407) 656-2121. For Classifieds, call (407) 656-2121.

SEND US YOUR NEWS We want to hear from you. Let us know about your events, celebrations and achievements. To contact us, email Michael Eng, meng@OrangeObserver.com.

STATEMENT OF OWNERSHIP PUBLIC NOTICES

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

WEST ORANGE TIMES

The West Orange Times (USPS 687120) is published weekly for $60 per year and $110 per two years by the Observer Media Group, 210 S. Dillard St., Winter Garden, Florida, 34787. Periodical postage paid at Winter Garden, Florida. POSTMASTER: Send changes of address to the (name of pub; i.e., West Orange Times, West Orange Times & Observer or Southwest Orange Observer), Observer Media Group, 11970 Main Street, Floor 3, Sarasota, FL 34236

Observer Media Group Inc. is locally owned. Publisher of the Longboat Observer, East County Observer, Sarasota Observer, Siesta Key Observer, West Orange Times & Observer, Southwest Orange Observer, Business Observer, LWR Life Magazine, Key Life Magazine, Baldwin Park Living Magazine and Season Magazine

Founding Editor and CEO / Matt Walsh President / Emily Walsh Vice President / Lisa Walsh Chairman Emeritus / David Beliles

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

OrangeObserver.com

OBSERVER | THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2026

West Orange County’s

Church DIRECTORY Courtesy image

The proposed development is located at 5477 Avalon Road, which is generally located east of Avalon Road, west of Daniel Webster Western Beltway, south of Malcolm Road and north of McKinney Road.

Developer seeks to build project in Lake Avalon Rural Settlement MANAGING EDITOR

Toll Brothers is proposing a development of 39 single-family dwelling units in the Lake Avalon Settlement in Horizon West, but residents adamantly expressed disapproval during a community meeting Thursday, July 30. The development is proposed to be constructed at 5477 Avalon Road, located east of Avalon Road, west of Daniel Webster Western Beltway, south of Malcolm Road and north of McKinney Road. The proposal includes amending the Future Land Use Map designation of the area from Rural Settlement 1/5, which allows one dwelling unit per five acres, to Rural Settlement 1/1, which is one dwelling unit per acre. Under the Rural Settlement 1/1, the development will be able to have 39 units. Toll Brothers also is seeking to rezone the property from Citrus Rural District to Planned Development. The 39 homes are clustered to look like a residential subdivision with a 5-acre pond in the center; the remaining acreage would be used as preservation space. The lots would be 100 feet wide with depths of a little more than 200 feet. Logan Opsahl, a land-use attorney at Lowndes Law Firm, the firm representing Toll Brothers, said the Toll Brothers considers the development a transition zone from higher density to lower density. Residents questioned why Toll Brothers couldn’t develop a proposal consistent with the one dwelling unit per five acre designation to follow the rules of the settlement. Opsahl said the proposal is to allow for more houses. “The idea of providing some kind of transitional area is not a real thing in our current underlying land use,” District 1 County Commissioner Nicole Wilson said. “When you feel some … frustration by individuals in this room, it’s not because they don’t want people there. It’s because they want everyone to play by the same rules. They want to make sure when we put things into our comprehensive plan and into our code, they mean something.” Although the proposed plan calls for clustering the homes, Wilson said clustering is not allowed in rural settlements. When asked how utilities would be supplied to the development, Opsahl

First Baptist Church

First United Methodist

Pastor Jeremy Woods 125 E. Plant St, Winter Garden (407) 656-2352 Sundays: 8:00 AM Traditional 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM Contemporary

www.fumcwg.org 125 N. Lakeview Ave., Winter Garden (407) 656-1135 Services: 9 AM Traditional 10:45 AM Contemporary Also viewable on YouTube

Starke Lake Baptist Church

said the intent was to use potable water and sewer. Scott Cirino, the county planner for the project, said Toll Brothers has not yet submitted its pre-development inquiry, which is an early application ANGLICAN for local utility authorities to check ANGLICAN infrastructure capacity before COMMUNITY filing formal plans. FELLOWSHIP CHURCH As a result, he Rector said the Theapplicant Rev. Canon Tim Trombitas may not be able to1146 use potable water East Plant St, Winter Garden and sewer as there are policies limitSUNDAY SERVICE ing utility expansion within the rural 10:00 AM Find us at: Theacf.net settlement. More than 50 residents attended the BAPTIST community meeting, with a majority opposing the proposal. BEULAH BAPTIST Mike Walsh, a resident of the settlePastor Casey Butner ment, said the proposal is a slippery 671 Beulah Rd, Winter Garden slope. “We’re not only407-656-3342 representing| BeulahBaptistWG.org our rural settlement, SUNDAY so what happens BIBLE STUDY 9:30AM here is going to affect all of these set- 11:00AM SUNDAY SERVICE tlements,” he said. “It’s difficult for us WEDNESDAY 6:00PM to have sympathy when if you lookSERVICE at what the price of this land has gone BAPTIST to in the last 10 to FIRST 15 years, where weCHURCH would have paid each 125$10,000 E Plant an St.,acre, Winter Garden it’s now sitting at $100,000. It’s not as 407-656-2352 if you’re not going to be making money SUNDAYS 8:30 am Traditional by sitting in the same type of area we 9:45 am Bible Study currently are pushing to maintain.” 11:00 am Contemporary Heather Thompson, a resident of WEDNESDAYS - 6pm - Awana the West Windermere Rural SettlePastor Tim Grosshans ment, said as construction occurs, challenges with construction, www.fbcwg.orgsetbacks, utilities and2nd more can result in Campus: changes in density. FOUNDATION WORSHIP “The plan you see here might not am - All Ages be the product youSUNDAYS end up with9:45 at the Foundation Academy end,” she said. “I’m just here to stand High School Rd., Winter Garden with my neighbors15304 and toTilden say also that the rural settlements of our county, and www.FoundationWorship.com our district especially, are the linchpin 407-730-1867 of our livelihood. This isn’t just about preserving a way of life or density. This is restoring our aquifer through water retention. We’re controlling flooding. We’re teaching land stewardship. We’re connecting to our food sources. We’re providing an opportunity right next door to connect with nature.” Laurie Forrester, president of the Lake Avalon Rural Settlement and Avalon Home and Property Owner Association, said she doesn’t understand how the proposal “was even a glimmer in anyone’s eyes” knowing the zoning and limitations of the area. “Once you let the genie out of the bottle, you cannot get them back in,” Forrester said. “We do not want you to be the genie. We don’t want you out of the bottle. Enough is enough. This should not have even been a glimmer.” The proposal will tentatively go before the Local Planning Agency and Planning and Zoning Commission for a public hearing at 9 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 20, at the County Administration Building.

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

CHURCH

Victory Baptist Church &STARKE Christian Academy LAKE BAPTIST

1601 A.D. Mims Rd, CHURCH PO Box 611 W Ave, Ocoee Ocoee 520, FL 34761 Pastor Jeff Pritchard (407) 656-3097 (407) 656-2351 www.starkelakebaptist.org www.VBCOCOEE.com Sunday: 11AM & 6 PM CHURCH OF GOD Wednesday: 7 PMOF GOD OCOEE CHURCH

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

EPISCOPAL

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

METHODIST

FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 125 N. Lakeview Ave Winter Garden Service Times 9:00 AM and 11:15 AM Phone – 407-656-1135 Web: fumcwg.org

NON-DEN

PURPOSE C 13640 W. Colo Winter Garden 407-654-9661 Fellowship 9:4

UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST

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

MIKE YOAKUM PASTOR

P: 407.656.1520 C: 407.758.3570 MYOAKUM407@AOL.COM

1333 EAST CROWN POINT RD. OCOEE, FL 34761

ORDER YOUR Matthew’s Hope is looking CUSTOM MADE for volunteers to provide CHRISTMAS prepared lunch meals and GIFTS NOW! side dishes to be

Matthew’s Hop

• Custom Furnitur Barn Doors, and • Repaired, Refinis Repurposed Wo • Gently Used Fur Household Item

Check out the custom delivered on made silent auction items Tuesday and Follow us at https://www.faceboo that will be available at Thursday mornings the Garden Party on Visit our Workshop Location at 611 Business Park B from November 9!! 407.905.9500 • 8am-4pm Mon - Fri • 8am 7AM to 10:30AM.

611 Business Park Blvd. #101, Winter Garden, FL 34787 (407) 905-9500 | MatthewsHopeMinistries.org

XNSP22180

LIZ RAMOS

METHODIST

LV14252

Toll Brothers is proposing a 39-home community off Avalon Road.

BAPTIST

.mu

si c

olo

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

449266-1 465629-1

www

rden.com erga int yw

465486-1

Want to see your listing here?

OrangeObserver.com

OBSERVER | THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2026

SCAN FOR TICKETS

C R I T I C A L LY

ACCLAIMED.

presents

COMMUNITY

A R T I S T I C A L LY

TREASURED.

STUNNING.

Oakland property worth less than property appraiser estimates IN OTHER NEWS

LETICIA SILVA STAFF WRITER

Music by

Book and Lyrics by

Book by

CHAD BEGUELIN

BOB MARTIN

MATTHEW SKLA Book by

Book and Lyrics by

CHAD BEGUELIN

BOB MARTIN

Music by

MATTHEW SKLAR

Tickets on sale now! AUGUST 6-16 st.lukes.org/prom

st.lukes.org/prom

n The tentative budget hearing is scheduled for 6 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 9. n The final budget hearing is scheduled for 6 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 22. n The Oakland Town Commission approved the tentative milage rate of 6.7 mills. n The “Wildness & Wonder — The Photography of Jon Burket” exhibition will open to the public at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 13, at the Healthy West Orange Arts & Heritage Center.

shift to projections made for fiscal years 2027-2028 and 2028-2029. According to Leon’s new projections, the town will see a $352,690 deficit in Fiscal Year 2027-2028 and a $694,830 deficit in Fiscal Year 2028-2029. The town’s enterprise fund totals $10,814,000. The revenue is based on user fees for goods and services such as water, wastewater and solid waste. Leon said about $7.5 of the $10,814,000 is in grants, which means the money is untouchable, leaving the town with around $3.4 million to operate and support the wastewater, water and solid waste programs. Leon said the enterprise fund shows a 6% increase in water and wastewater revenues from last fiscal year. However, that’s only about $180,450 more. “We’re not bringing enough in than what we are spending in the enterprise fund,” she said. “We need to do a water study to see if we need SEE OPPOSITE PAGE

TOP INDIVIDUAL AGENT 2023-2024

YOUR WINTER GARDEN NEIGHBOR. YOUR REAL ESTATE PARTNER.

I Know West Orange

Ready to Make a Move? Scan here to get started. www.tennillebiggers.com (850) 628-4455 TennilleBiggers@kw.com 500184-1

4851 S. Apopka-Vineland Road • Orlando, FL 32819

465879-1

Prom is presented through special arrangement with authorized performance materials supplied TheThe Prom is presented through special arrangement with andand all all authorized performance materials areare supplied by by Theatrical Rights Worldwide 1180 Avenue of the Americas, Suite 640, New York, 10036. www.theatricalrights.com Theatrical Rights Worldwide 1180 Avenue of the Americas, Suite 640, New York, NYNY 10036. www.theatricalrights.com

The town of Oakland’s Finance Director Gaby Leon said the town’s first budget workshop regarding the General Fund budget was overestimated by $11 million. Since the first budget workshop held Tuesday, June 23, Leon said the town’s taxable values have decreased for Fiscal Year 2026-2027. She said Orange County Property Appraiser provided the town with estimated taxable values of $1,037,422,455, which she used to present the first budget workshop. However, property appraisers overestimated it by $11 million. The town’s taxable values, which include real properties and personal properties, actually are $1,026,261,670. “Unfortunately, it’s never been overestimated by that much,” Leon said. “It’s usually only ever been by a million or two. This was kind of a big hit to our bottom line.” Because the taxable values decreased, the fire assessment fee also decreased by nearly $122,000. While the fire assessment fee decreased, additions were made to the budget. Additions include $220,000 for Southern Oaks paving; $40,000 for the abandonment of Oakland Avenue Charter School’s septic tank; $30,000 for a new HVAC system in the town’s meeting hall; and $115,000 for fire fee and stormwater assessments. With all of these additions, changes and decrease in ad valorem revenue, the town was in a deficit of almost $200,000. To make the budget balanced, Leon pulled $300,000 from the reserves, leaving the reserves with a new contingency of $111,000. Changes to the budget also caused a

500120-1

OrangeObserver.com

to increase our rates to help pay for the water services and sewer services.” Because of that, $30,000 was budgeted for a water-rate study. Other expenditures include $42,000 for utility repair experts to operate the town’s water plant, $25,000 for a Water Supply Work Plan update and $72,000 for upgrades to the town’s water system, SCADA. The budget also includes a 3% cost-of-living adjustment for all employees and a 9.5% increase in employee health insurance costs. After all expenditures are accounted, the budget’s contingency is $142,351, which will go toward necessary additions to the budget or to unexpected expenses. Leon presented a $4,204,354 budget for impact fees, with $2,435,000 budgeted for projects and $1,769,354 in reserves. Expenditures include $150,000 for the Northwest Loop water design; an extra $10,000 for laptops and equipment for the Oakland Police Department; an increase to $60,000 for Oakland Nature Preserve’s pavilion; $75,000 to include additional water line work for hydrant upgrades; and $125,000 for sidewalk improvements to include a canal bridge. Leon also highlighted capital improvement projects expected to cost a total of $34,107,000 over the next five years. Projects are for parks and recreation, transportation, water and police. However, Leon said these projects are dependent on Property Tax Amendment 3. If passed, the town would experience several budget cuts and might not be able to complete any projects on the list. The list includes $4,500 for IT equipment; $130,000 for the Comprehensive Plan update; $450,000 for Briley Farms alternative water connection; $220,000 for Southern Oaks paving; and other projects funded through grants. “Even if Amendment 3 doesn’t pass, the town still has to have money in order to fund these things,” Leon said.

Windermere Town Council considers eliminating annual Light Up event LIZ RAMOS MANAGING EDITOR

“I can tell you with confidence: We will be OK.” Windermere Town Manager Robert Smith assured Windermere Town Council members during a budget meeting Tuesday, July 28, that even if the property tax reform passes in November, the town will be OK financially — with cuts and budget tightening. Windermere Town Council unanimously approved maintaining the town’s millage rate of 3.7425, the same millage rate the town has had since 2018 when it was increased to generate revenue to invest in infrastructure. Smith said the town’s estimated taxable value for this year is $1,296,514,401, an increase of more than $33 million. About 41%, or 900, of the town’s homes fall under the homestead exemption in the property tax reform. If the reform passes, the town will take a hit of about $350,000 in the first year of the reform followed by more than $650,000 in the second year. Smith said a potential increase in property appraiser estimates could bridge the gap, but he wouldn’t be able to make that determination until he receives the estimates each year. “If it passes, we will be OK,” Smith said. “We’re going to have to button it up a little bit, but if the property appraisals still go up, it’ll take us probably about three or four years to get us back to where we’re at right now. … The good thing is that we’re small. We don’t have these huge budgets. We don’t have these huge departments.” The Ocoee Fire Department provides fire services for the town of Windermere. The fire service agreement for the town is going up to $1.1 million from $875,000 last year. Smith said the fire assessment will generate about $1.5 million, offsetting the cost. Projects that will be completed in Fiscal Year 2026-2027, which runs from Oct. 1, 2026, through Sept. 30,

File photo

Light Up Windermere might not take place this year.

2027, include the Ward Trail Phase 1 with pedestrian bridge; West Second Avenue potable water, road and stormwater improvements; Bessie basin stormwater improvements; Butler basin stormwater improvements; and Windermere Road and Main Street intersection improvements. The town already has allocated money toward engineering, design and architecture, but the project can be paused until the cash flow is good enough to start construction, Smith said. Smith provided council with recommendations on events and infrastructure projects that could be cut or deferred to prepare for the impacts of the property tax reform. “Quality of life is one thing, the level of service is another,” Smith said. “Quality of life would be having those community events, having lights, Halloween stuff, nice banners. The levels of service would be making sure our roads are in proper condition, making sure the stormwater is working, making sure the police are out

protecting everybody. So that’s what we’re trying to focus on right now.” The town-sponsored events being proposed for elimination or suspension include Food Truck Nights and Light Up Windermere. The Easter Egg Hunt Extravaganza will continue, but the Windermere Police Department Foundation will fund and organize the event. “It’s those (events) that taxpayers look at and say, ‘Is this necessary? Is this needed? Was it just something we want?’” Smith said. “That can be a discussion council can have with me to say, ‘OK, listen, it’s important. We just need to scale it down.’” Smith said the town also is looking to potentially defer capital improvement and infrastructure projects until after Tuesday, Nov. 3, and the property values for 2027 and 2028. One of the projects is the town’s Potable Water Central Phase project, of which there still is about $800,000 of a $3.081 million from the state available. A majority was spent on design for not only West Second Avenue but also ancillary roadways.

Smith recommended the town return the $800,000 to the state because the reimbursement rate from the state is eight to 12 months. The town still is waiting to receive at least $5.8 million from the state in reimbursements from appropriations. “Just because you have something doesn’t mean you have to spend it; you can give it back,” he said. “If I were to spend that money, we’d be digging that hole even deeper, so just because we have it doesn’t mean we need to spend it. It hurts me to say that as much as we fought for that, but we’re not in a position to spend that money every single time.” Staff also recommended cutting the North Phase water design at $618,318.96, South Phase water design at $666,500, Parks and Recreation’s Capital Improvement Program at $25,000, and $10,000 in street and road repairs. Another recommendation was cutting the Arbor Day trees the town gives away, but Smith said Duke Energy provides the trees. Other cuts include reducing the budget for sidewalk repair and construction to $20,000 from $100,000 as well as town decorations to $15,000 from $35,000 and signage to $5,000 from $44,000. Town staff also will be deferring equipment and technology replacements for Information Technology that will result in a reduction of $50,000. Smith said any cuts made can be added back into the budget depending on cash flow. Windermere Town Council unanimously approved consenting to a balanced proposed budget of $12,464,394.17 as well as setting the tentative budget hearing for Thursday, Sept. 3, and the final budget hearing for Wednesday, Sept. 16. Council also unanimously approved the solid waste assessment at $518,920.18, stormwater fund assessment roll at $376,525.18, fire assessment at $1,157,624.45 and the Willows Street light assessment at $17,861.76.

465403-1

FROM PREVIOUS PAGE

OBSERVER | THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2026

people will always know where I stand. I will explain my votes, provide regular updates on the work we are doing and follow through on the concerns constituents bring to me. District 11 is a diverse district with many needs. What are the district’s three most pressing issues? The three most pressing issues facing District 11 are protecting Social Security and Medicare, making health care more affordable, and reducing the financial pressure on working and middleclass families. This district is home to many seniors who spent their lives paying into Social Security and Medicare. They deserve to know those benefits will be protected and available when they need them, not cut, privatized or weakened. Health-care costs are placing enormous strain on families. We need to restore Medicaid funding,

WEBSTER FROM PAGE 3A

Discuss three tangible ways constituents will experience your presence as their representative in the U.S. House. First, my constituents will experience unprecedented accessibility. I will hold quarterly in-person town halls throughout the district, monthly virtual town halls and maintain an open-door policy. Second, while one member of Congress cannot transform the institution alone, I believe leadership is contagious. By being accessible, transparent and focused on solving problems instead of scoring political points, I hope to set an example that encourages more collaboration and accountability. Third, they will experience accountability and transparency. I will explain my votes, communicate regularly about my work in Congress and welcome questions — even from those who disagree with me.

WILLIAMS FROM PAGE 3A

anyone who is interested. I believe education and technology working together is vital to the future of America. I will also be hosting virtual and physical town halls to make sure people can come and meet with me directly multiple times a year. Lastly, all of my call logs will be published. Currently, Congress is not bound by the Freedom of Information Act, and this needs to change. Representatives need to publish how many people call in about an issue. When they say that they have a mandate to do something, they should be able to show the numbers that prove that. District 11 is a diverse district with many needs. What are the district’s three most pressing issues? Affordability is always the top issue, but in my mind this is a ton of issues all rolled up in one. I plan on breaking them down into smaller, easier-to-solve issues,

protect the Affordable Care Act, and lower the cost of prescription drugs and medical care. Helping my aging mother navigate the health care system showed me how quickly an illness, insurance denial or unexpected bill can overwhelm a family. Finally, families across Central Florida are struggling with the cost of housing, insurance, groceries and utilities. Congress must focus on lowering costs and cutting taxes for working and middle-class families, not rewarding large corporations.

more money into the system or reduce what Americans receive. I do not support cutting the benefits people have earned. We need to re-prioritize our spending and ask why Washington can find trillions of dollars for endless wars and billions for wasteful projects, but treats protecting Social Security as an impossible expense. I will support responsible steps to strengthen the program, including raising the taxable earnings cap so the wealthiest Americans contribute more of their income.

Discuss the impending Social Security shortfall and your solutions. Social Security is a promise we have made to generations of Americans who paid into the system throughout their working lives. It must be funded and seniors should never be used as bargaining chips as Congress waits until the last minute to act. There are ultimately two ways to address the shortfall: bring

Discuss the current state of health care in the United States and your solutions. The United States has some of the best doctors, hospitals and medical innovation in the world, which doesn’t matter if our families can’t access the care they need. Families are facing high premiums, deductibles, prescription drug costs and surprise bills, while doctors and patients alike are forced to spend too much time

District 11 is a diverse district with many needs. What are the district’s three most pressing issues? I believe the four most pressing issues are housing affordability, environmental protection, education and transportation while responsibly managing urban sprawl. Housing costs continue to place enormous financial pressure on working families, seniors and young adults trying to build a future. Protecting our environment is essential to preserving Florida’s natural resources, ensuring clean water, managing responsible growth and preparing for the impacts of a changing climate. Investing in public education is one of the most important responsibilities we have, because a strong education system creates opportunities for our children, strengthens our workforce and builds a more prosperous future. Finally, our region must improve transportation infra-

structure while planning for continued growth. Smart investments in roads, public transit and thoughtful land-use planning are essential to reducing congestion, protecting our quality of life and ensuring that growth does not come at the expense of our communities or our environment.

and then creating targeted short bills that are easy to read and understand. Corruption is another huge issue that I hear about every day. Our government is broken and the remedy is radical transparency through Direct Democracy. Instead of pretending that one person can perfectly represent 800,000 distinct voices without continuous input, I am shifting the power back to you. This system ensures continuous accountability and builds an unbreakable wall against special interests. Currently, a lobbyist only needs to influence a single politician to pass a law. Under my platform, they would have to convince 800,000 everyday citizens. The last issue that I hear about is not a federal issue but a local one. The upcoming Property Tax Homestead amendment is brought up in almost every event that I do. I do believe all levels of government need to work together to solve bigger problems. I am partnering up with the Braver

Angels and a few local candidates to create a website that will explain this amendment in simple terms and make sure people know how this will be affecting them.

Discuss the impending Social Security shortfall and your solutions. Social Security is one of the most important commitments our nation has made to its seniors, people with disabilities and working families. We must take action now to protect this earned benefit. According to current projections, the Social Security Trust Fund is expected to become unable to pay full scheduled benefits in the fourth quarter of 2032 if Congress does not act. While Social Security will not disappear, failing to address the issue could result in a reduction in benefits for millions of Americans.

Discuss the impending Social Security shortfall and your solutions. Social Security is a solemn promise made to working Americans, and I will fiercely defend it. I will absolutely oppose any efforts to cut benefits, privatize the program or raise the retirement age. The solution to long-term solvency is straightforward: We must make the wealthy pay their fair share. I support raising the cap on earnings subject to the Social Security payroll tax. Currently, millionaires stop paying into the system early in the year, while working-class Floridians pay on every dollar they earn. By fixing this inequity, we can ensure the Trust Fund is fully funded for generations to come, protecting the benefits our seniors have earned.

dealing with insurance companies instead of focusing on care. We need to lower costs, expand access and make the system easier to navigate. I support stronger limits on prescription drug prices, greater transparency from hospitals and insurers, expanded access to primary and preventive care, protections for people with preexisting conditions and restoring Medicaid funding. Do you support term limits for Congress? Why or why not? We have term limits here in Florida and what we’ve seen is that it doesn’t actually fix our problems. Instead, it creates a political class that hops from local seats to state seats to local again. I believe voters offer the ultimate term limits, and if we are serious about reform, we should look at campaign finance reform. I support comprehensive campaign finance reform, stronger transparency requirements and fair elections that give voters meaningful choices.

My solution is straightforward: Eliminate the Social Security payroll tax cap. Discuss the current state of health care in the United States and your solutions. The current state of health care in the United States is unacceptable. We have some of the best doctors, hospitals and medical technology in the world, yet millions of Americans still struggle to afford the care they need. Too many families are forced to choose between paying medical bills and paying for housing, groceries or other basic necessities. Medical debt remains one of the leading causes of financial hardship and bankruptcy in our country. I support creating a Medicare for All option for those who choose to participate. I do not believe in taking away health care coverage from people who are satisfied with their current plans, but every American should have access to an affordable, highquality public option.

Discuss the current state of health care in the United States and your solutions. Health care should be a fundamental right, not a privilege tied to your employment or wealth. In Congress, I will fight for Medicare for all to ensure universal access to quality, affordable care. Right now, families in Central Florida are struggling with rising costs across the board and no one should face financial ruin because of a medical emergency. I also strongly support collective bargaining to aggressively negotiate and lower prescription drug prices. But more importantly, through my “Ask America” platform, my constituents will have a direct say on these health care bills. Do you support term limits for Congress? Why or why not? Yes, and I have already signed the term limits pledge. We need to make sure our representatives are not elected to Congress for life. We also need to have a standard

Discuss how you plan to work with your fellow representatives, the U.S. Senate and President Trump. My responsibility will be to the people of Florida’s 11th Congressional District. I will work with members of both parties, the Senate and President Trump when we can make progress on the issues that matter here at home. When I believe a proposal will hurt Central Florida families, weaken Social Security or Medicare, or raise costs, I will say so clearly and oppose it. I have spent my career working with people who do not always agree with me. That does not mean abandoning your principles. It means listening, finding common ground where it exists and doing the work necessary to get results. Congress needs less political theater and more serious people focused on solving problems. I look forward to earning each constituent’s vote and to the sacred responsibility of elected office.

Do you support term limits for Congress? Why or why not? Yes, I support term limits for Congress, and I have signed the term limits pledge. I believe public service should be a commitment to the people, not a lifetime career built around power, influence or financial reward. Discuss how you plan to work with your fellow representatives, the U.S. Senate and President Trump. My responsibility will not be to a political party, a president or special interests. My responsibility will be to the constituents of Florida’s 11th Congressional District, the people of Florida and the United States of America. I will work with anyone — Republican, Democrat or independent — when it benefits the people I represent. I will negotiate in good faith, but I will not compromise my integrity, my values or what I believe is in the best interest of the American people.

medical and cognitive exam that each member should take on a yearly bases. Discuss how you plan to work with your fellow representatives, the U.S. Senate and President Trump. I am really excited to work with all members of Congress. I know that America is divided right now but I believe we can start fixing this through education. I have already shown that my campaign is not just for me, but it is designed to help all other candidates, as well. I created JoinTheBlueWave.org, which allows people to type in their address and see all candidates running in their races. I will bring tech solutions to Congress, which they are strongly in need of. Out of the 435 members of the House, only five members have any kind of tech background. Those representatives are overwhelmed with trying to regulate AI, crypto and digital privacy. We need more tech people up in Congress more now than ever before.

465494-1

PERICOLA FROM PAGE 3A

MEET THE CANDIDATES: FLORIDA’S 11TH CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT — DEMOCRATS

OrangeObserver.com

OBSERVER | THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2026

465510-1

OrangeObserver.com

OBSERVER | THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2026

Contract bargaining continues between Orange County Public Schools, teachers union The district approved its tentative budget for Fiscal Year 2026-2027, leaving teachers concerned over health-care costs and compensation. LETICIA SILVA STAFF WRITER

celebrity cipher

crossword

By Luis Campos

DOWN

ACROSS 1 Formally give up 5 Have a sandwich 8 ___ de Janeiro 11 Large-scale 16 Hold a seat for a friend, say 18 How low can you go? 20 “The Very Hungry Caterpillar” author 21 “Like, so cute!” 22 ___Wire (fantasy sports company) 23 Fruity condiment in Cantonese cuisine 25 ___ of the ball 26 Set on fire in a restaurant 28 Robin’s-___ blue 29 Word after “paper” or

“pepper” 30 People to emulate 36 Opposite of NNE 39 Oahu or Santorini, e.g. 40 Piece of plumbing 41 Event where you might ask “Who wore it better?”? 42 Jeweler’s unit 43 Lower part of a shoe 44 “Details pending” letters 45 Diluted 46 ___ Bazaar (fashion magazine) 48 “___ me” (“I’m being honest”) 50 Pirate’s shout 52 Miss, in Spanish (Abbr.) 54 Simple shelter 55 Sleep stage letters 56 Upper part of a shoe 59 Peace agreements

61 Pouch holding eggs 84 Healing practice in a or ink heated pool 62 How villains laugh 85 Certain coffee pod 64 ___ Memorial Trophy 86 Glimpse (NHL award) 87 Resident of Damascus 66 “___ matter of fact ...” 91 Girl, in Spanish 67 Take aback 93 Noodle soup that con69 Brewed drink brand once tains soy owned by Starbucks 98 Farmland unit 71 Food regimen 99 Top membership tier 73 One more than bi101 Chances to get even? 75 Burden 103 Doesn’t dillydally 76 Some sheet music 104 TV episodes with little symbols original footage 77 Serendipitous encoun- 105 Newspaper arguments 106 Study of the mind, for ters short 81 “Ow, that ___!” 107 Delmar Loop’s city 82 Journalist’s “Wait, this (Abbr.) is big!” 108 Trim (down) 83 “Indeed”

green 43 Like the superhero 1 Song often sung in the Elastigirl snow 2 “Don’t Cry for Me Argen- 47 Tavern order 49 Leans tina” musical 51 Turn a movie based on a 3 Breaks down book into a play, say 4 Key next to F1 53 “The ___ Academy” 5 Noble “of Sandwich” (“A Series of Unfortunate 6 Org. fighting for trans Events” book with a somber rights title) 7 Abound 57 Dec. 31 8 Campus military grp. 58 Physical copy of a 9 Slushy summer treat magazine 10 Gives the nod to 60 Line of work 11 Role ___ (people to 63 Artist’s apartment emulate) 65 Heads of AI startups, 12 Reef around a lagoon etc. 13 PC key near Alt 68 Sweet and spicy Heinz 14 Bathhouse garment product 15 Meditative sounds 70 Behave rebelliously 16 Feudal laborer 72 Almost fall over 17 Slice from a sheet 74 “Easy-peasy!” (ouch!) 78 Planned community org. 18 Not-so-smooth begin79 Speedometer abbr. ning 80 Road trip game 19 Coddled 82 Sport similar to rac21 Marketing slogans quetball 24 Another name for a 84 All-___ pass manatee 85 Wrote bad checks ... or 27 Sing forcefully soared like a children’s toy 29 August, e.g. 88 Greek mythology term 31 Carnival dances hidden in “harpsichord” 32 In the world 89 “___ there yet?” 33 Nickname hidden in 90 Loch ___ Monster this clue 34 Jennifer Garner’s role in 91 Give a round of applause 92 Go backpacking, say the MCU 93 The kilogram is a unit 35 They might break up of this dorm parties (Abbr.) 36 Dangerously seductive 94 ___-bitty 95 Pop flies’ paths tunes 37 Gladiator who rebelled 96 Soften like butter 97 Name that’s an anagram against Rome 38 Unpleasant footwear on of a unit of distance 99 Moody music genre a rainy day 100 “___ to pay” (checkout 39 Hair-thickening prodphrase) ucts 102 One of 48 in a cup 40 Nana’s son (Abbr.) 41 Deeply held belief 42 Sharp-tasting salad

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

“SODS’M SOX IDSEWX NH SOX RNWZ, SN SWEPF XAQNUF DIU QX UGHHXWXIS TXNTPX ... TXNTPX SONEVOS G RDM QXGIV AFMXPH.”

YFISOGD XWGBN

“DLWBNQM DH CDYR, CASW IYNXPB KM TDV NB YMSUNGNXP WASW WAM BLX NB BANXNXP. NW BDLXQB S UNWWUM WYNWM, ILW NW’B XDW.”

TDX IDX TDJN

“R IXCLW M ZGW GV WRQC DRWA ... WAC KCMK EGQXGICOI ... WACB DGJZK XGRLW QC RL KROCEWRGLI – WG IWJKB, WG UC GXCL, WG WARLP.”

WGOR MQGI

Puzzle Three Clue: K equals D

MEGA FREESTYLE 6 by August Miller, edited by Jared Goudsmit

Puzzle Two Clue: A equals H

— OCPS School Board Chair Teresa Jacobs

remains unchanged, premiums for dependent coverage will increase, along with deductibles for both employee-only and family plans. “Despite these challenges, the district remains committed to offering competitive salaries and affordable access to high-quality healthcare for employees and their dependents,” OCPS officials said. Even with salary increases, the higher health care costs would result in lower take-home pay, making teachers have to choose between medical care, paying for groceries or bills, McCracken said. At the board meeting, various teachers shared personal stories on how health insurance costs would impact their lives. “Reading through the health insurance proposal for the first time, I felt like I need to make a decision between starting a family and remaining in this career,” teacher Rebecca Roy said. “We’re already up against so much like the time and energy commitment, Florida’s famously low teacher salary and our short three-week maternity leave. These felt like difficult obstacles, but this year’s proposed added cost to teachers makes this feel insurmountable. I simply cannot make the numbers work.” She said it feels as if OCPS is asking her to make a huge sacrifice, either a financial one or a personal one. Roy urged board members to take teachers into consideration because they are the ones who make OCPS great. OCPS School Board Chair Teresa Jacobs said she wishes there was more the board could do. “I’m looking at other school dis-

Puzzle Two Clue: G equals I

I’m looking at other school districts: they’re not paying more; their insurance isn’t better. If we improve the health care and we spend more money on the health care out of district funds, that comes from the same pot that we pay salaries. … There’s just not the money there”

Orange County School Board members approved Tuesday, July 28, the tentative budget for Fiscal Year 2026-2027. If the final budget is approved in September, teachers across Orange County Public Schools will face increases to their insurance premiums and deductibles. The Orange County Classroom Teachers Association has been bargaining with OCPS regarding salaries and health insurance costs. After failed negotiation attempts, an impasse was reached in April. OCPS has agreed to OCCTA’s proposal of a permanent base-salary adjustment to instructional personnel who have been employed for 10 years or more. With this adjustment, teachers employed with OCPS for 10 to 14 years will receive an additional $1,925 to their base salaries. Teachers employed with OCPS for 15 to 19 years will receive a $2,025 adjustment to their salaries. For 20- to 24-year instructors, an additional $2,200 will be added to their base salaries. Teachers employed for 25 to 29 years will receive $2,500, and teachers employed for 30 to 31 years will receive $2,800. All teachers who have been with OCPS for 32 years or longer will receive a base-salary adjustment of $3,000. However, OCCTA still is bargaining for a 3% raise for effective teachers and a 4% raise for highly effective ones who have been with OCPS for fewer than 10 years, rather than accepting OCPS’ proposal of 2.65% for highly-effective teachers and 1.98% for effective teachers. For teachers who do not qualify

for any increases under district proposals, OCCTA is asking for a 2% cost-of-living adjustment. “Teachers are struggling to remain in the profession that they love,” OCCTA President Clinton McCracken said during the public hearing Tuesday, July 28. “The cost of living in Central Florida continues to rise, while educators’ takehome pay simply doesn’t keep pace. Many are wondering how much longer they can afford to stay. Yet, they continue showing up every day for Orange County students. … They deserve a district that shows up for them.” McCracken said while Tallahassee must do better in funding school districts, School Board members also have the power to make local decisions, and their choices reveal their priorities. “I’ll keep fighting for the compensation, respect and working conditions (teachers) deserve,” he said. “And I’ll keep holding this district accountable for the choices that it makes. You can’t call educators essential and then budget as if they’re expendable.” While base-rate adjustments have been made, affordable health care remains a topic of concern. Under the district’s hybrid insurance proposal, OCPS teachers’ deductibles would increase from $400 to $3,000. For a family, it would increase from $800 to $6,000. In total, including premium and deductibles, it would cost around $22,988 for a family to be insured under OCPS’ hybrid plan, OCCTA officials said. While OCPS’ employee-only zero-cost premium health care plan

tricts: they’re not paying more; their insurance isn’t better,” she said. “If we improve the health care and we spend more money on the health care out of district funds, that comes from the same pot that we pay salaries.” Jacobs said the board simply cannot lower insurance costs and raise salaries at the same time. “There’s just not the money there,” she said. Over the past five years, OCPS has spent nearly $264 million to subsidize insurance premiums, but that no longer is sustainable. School Board member Angie Gallo said the board is continuing to look at options and where there might be more money to give directly to teachers and educational support staff. “I know that this is difficult, but I don’t want you guys to leave here hopeless and think that we’re just a bunch of bobbleheads up here not caring and not doing everything we can to try to find your money, because that simply isn’t true,” she said. “It’s just not. … We are at an impasse. We haven’t finished negotiations with the union. A lot still has to be discussed.” She assured the passage of the tentative budget and approval for the final budget hearing to be held Tuesday, Sept. 8, does not mean the board does not care. “We’ve committed that every dollar that we can find, every dime that we can find, it’s going to you all,” Gallo said to teachers. “What that looks like right now, I don’t know, but I promise you we’re trying. We’re making really hard cuts to try to find the money, and I’m committed to continue to do that for you all.”

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

08-06-26

10A

OrangeObserver.com

OBSERVER | THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2026

SNAPSHOT

REAL ESTATE

Total Sales: 73 High Sale Price: $5,500,000 Low Sale Price: $149,900

SOUTHWEST ORANGE LAKE SHEEN RESERVE

The home at 10461 Wiscane Ave., Orlando, sold July 14, for $1,210,000. Built in 2001, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 3,419 square feet. Days on market: 14.

WEST ORANGE

ESTATES AT WINDERMERE

The home at 2219 Ridgewind Way, Windermere, sold July 13, for $1,245,000. Built in 1997, it has six bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 3,364 square feet. Days on market: 25. KELSO ON LAKE BUTLER

Courtesy photo

The home at 9639 Westover Roberts Road, Windermere, sold July 17, for $5,500,000. This home commands attention with a grand, Mediterranean-inspired façade that opens to interiors of soaring scale and meticulous marble craftsmanship. The sellers were represented by the Julie Bettosini Team, Stockworth Realty Group.

Gotha mansion sells for $5.5M A

home in the Gotha

The home at 11170 Hollow Bay Drive, Winter Garden, sold July 17, for $535,000. Built in 2025, it has four bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 2,474 square feet. Days on market: 19.

community topped all

West Orange-area residential real-estate transactions

WATERMARK

from July 13 to 19.

The home at 9929 Summerlake Groves St., Winter Garden, sold July 16, for $875,000. Built in 2020, it has five bedrooms, four-andone-half baths and 4,034 square feet. Days on market: 21.

The home at 9639 Westover Roberts Road, Windermere, sold July 17, for $5,500,000. Built in 2017, it

WEST POINT COMMONS DeVore Design

and-one-half baths and

The home at 16776 Broadwater Ave., Winter Garden, sold July 16, for $1,260,000. It was the largest transaction in Winter Garden from July 13 to 19. The sellers were represented by Alex and Amy Vastardis, Coldwell Banker Realty.

11,861 square feet. Days on

VENEZIA

has five bedrooms, eight-

market: 283. The sellers were represented by the Julie Bettosini Team, Stockworth Realty Group.

The home at 7451 Pointe Venezia Drive, Orlando, sold July 16, for $975,000. Built in 2007, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 3,030 square feet. Days on market: 80. VISTA CAY AT HARBOR SQUARE

selling homes in each com-

The condo at 4840 Cayview Ave., No. 402, Orlando, sold July 17, for $690,000. Built in 2007, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,001 square feet.

munity in West Orange.

HORIZON WEST

DR. PHILLIPS

The home at 6529 Shore Juniper St., Winter Garden, sold July 15, for $900,728. Built in 2026, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 3,108 square feet.

These are the highest-

BRISTOL PARK

The home at 9405 Wickham Way, Orlando, sold July 16, for $1,085,000. Built in 1994, it has five bedrooms, four baths and 3,754 square feet of living area. Days on market: Five. CLUBHOUSE ESTATES

The home at 7437 Burnway Drive, Orlando, sold July 14, for $544,500. Built in 1982, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 1,875 square feet. Days on market: 17. DIAMOND COVE

The home at 8039 Solitaire Court, Orlando, sold July 15, for $750,000. Built in 1996, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 2,436 square feet. Days on market: Five.

AVALON WOODS

INDEPENDENCE

The home at 6110 Meriwether Crescent, Winter Garden, sold July 17, for $675,000. Built in 2011, it has five bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,830 square feet. Days on market: Eight. LAKES OF WINDERMERE

The home at 6648 Helston Lane, Windermere, sold July 17, for $642,000. Built in 2005, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 3,072 square feet. Days on market: Five. LAKESHORE PRESERVE

The home at 7719 Pine Vista Court, Orlando, sold July 16, for $685,000. Built in 1986, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,368 square feet. Days on market: 10.

The townhouse at 8955 Lakeshore Pointe Drive, Winter Garden, sold July 15, for $620,000. Built in 2018, it has four bedrooms, three-andone-half baths and 2,539 square feet of living area. Days on market: 299.

SAND LAKE HILLS

NORTHLAKE AT OVATION

HIDDEN SPRINGS

The home at 6054 Marlberry Drive, Orlando, sold July 14, for $750,000. Built in 1973, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 2,999 square feet. Days on market: 97. SANDY SPRINGS

The home at 7921 Palmdale Drive, Orlando, sold July 15, for $700,000. Built in 1987, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,176 square feet. Days on market: 17. SOUTH BAY

The home at 9208 Bay Hill Blvd., Orlando, sold July 17, for $2 million. Built in 1989, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 3,683 square feet. Days on market: 10.

The home at 17231 Melogold Way, Winter Garden, sold July 13, for $950,000. Built in 2024, it has five bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths and 3,787 square feet. Days on market: 79.

OSPREY RANCH

The home at 12554 Westhaven Oak Drive, Winter Garden, sold July 15, for $588,000. Built in 2025, it has four bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 2,743 square feet. Days on market: 261. PANTHER VIEW

The home at 9173 Cut Shot Drive, Winter Garden, sold July 13, for $572,000. Built in 2018, it has five bedrooms, three baths and 2,638 square feet of living area. Days on market: Four. RESERVE AT CARRIAGE POINT

The home at 15480 Sandfield Loop, Winter Garden, sold July 13, for $745,000. Built in 2013, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,574 square feet of living area. Days on market: 22. SUMMERLAKE

The home at 8016 Atlantic Puffin St., Winter Garden, sold July 14, for $560,000. Built in 2014, it has four bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 2,488 square feet. Days on market: Five. WATERLEIGH

The home at 8978 Sonoma Coast Drive, Winter Garden, sold July 15, for $1,175,000. Built in 2022, it has five bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 3,911 square feet. Days on market: 36. The home at 16140 Harbor Mist Alley, Winter Garden, sold July 13, for $550,000. Built in 2018, it has four bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 2,477 square feet of living area. Days on market: 159.

The home at 13914 Florigold Drive, Windermere, sold July 16, for $685,000. Built in 2004, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,968 square feet. Days on market: Two.

OAKLAND

HULL ISLAND

The home at 918 Hull Island Drive, Winter Garden, sold July 15, for $729,900. Built in 2021, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,268 square feet of living area. Days on market: Six. OAKLAND PARK

The home at 1108 Riverway Drive, Winter Garden, sold July 15, for $1,025,000. Built in 2024, it has five bedrooms, three baths and 2,999 square feet of living area. Days on market: 33.

OCOEE

ARDEN PARK NORTH

The home at 2932 Muller Oak Loop, Ocoee, sold July 13, for $470,000. Built in 2022, it has five bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,194 square feet of living area. Days on market: 14. CROSS CREEK

The home at 513 Darkwood Ave., Ocoee, sold July 16, for $590,900. Built in 1995, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,396 square feet of living area. Days on market: Four. FORESTBROOKE

The home at 3190 Farland Drive, Ocoee, sold July 14, for $645,000. Built in 2004, it has six bedrooms, four baths and 3,852 square feet. Days on market: Nine. MCCORMICK RESERVE

The home at 3554 Gretchen Drive, Ocoee, sold July 17, for $520,000. Built in 2017, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,406 square feet. Days on market: 25.

RESERVE AT WATERFORD POINTE

The home at 2002 Water Key Drive, Windermere, sold July 16, for $1,365,000. Built in 2002, it has five bedrooms, five baths and 3,695 square feet of living area. Days on market: Three.

WINDERMERE

KEENE’S POINTE

The home at 9713 Endicott Court, Windermere, sold July 17, for $5,250,000. Built in 2007, it has six bedrooms, six baths, two halfbaths and 7,818 square feet. Days on market: Three. ISLEWORTH

The home at 5036 Latrobe Drive, Windermere, sold July 15, for $4,350,000. Built in 1990, it has five bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths and 5,548 square feet. Days on market: 175. SILVER WOODS

The home at 9072 Woodbreeze Blvd., Windermere, sold July 17, for $549,900. Built in 1985, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,721 square feet of living area. Days on market: 39.

WINTER GARDEN BELLE MEADE

The home at 15232 Firelight Drive, Winter Garden, sold July 13, for $829,000. Built in 2010, it has seven bedrooms, four baths and 4,612 square feet of living area. Days on market: 26. The home at 15336 Firelight Drive, Winter Garden, sold July 17, for $575,000. Built in 2007, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,242 square feet of living area. Days on market: Five. CYPRESS RESERVE

The home at 14241 SunRidge Blvd., Winter Garden, sold July 14, for $730,000. Built in 2019, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,952 square feet of living area. Days on market: Three. GARDEN WEST

The home at 705 Garden West Terrace, Winter Garden, sold July 15, for $1,225,000. Built in 2020, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,698 square feet. Days on market: 49. JOHNS LAKE POINTE

The home at 940 Marsh Reed Drive, Winter Garden, sold July 14, for $750,000. Built in 2015, it has five bedrooms, three baths and 3,493 square feet. Days on market: 71. LAKE COVE POINTE

The home at 405 Lone Heron Way, Winter Garden, sold July 17, for $875,000. Built in 2013, it has five bedrooms, four baths and 3,848 square feet of living area. Days on market: Two.

ORCHARD HILLS

The home at 4231 Oak Lodge Way, Winter Garden, sold July 14, for $662,000. Built in 2015, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 2,821 square feet. Days on market: 10. The home at 14531 Cedar Hill Drive, Winter Garden, sold July 15, for $600,000. Built in 2014, it has five bedrooms, four baths and 3,510 square feet of living area. Days on market: 34.

The home at 1125 Kelso Blvd., Windermere, sold July 13, for $1,375,000. Built in 1992, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 3,660 square feet. Days on market: 14.

WATERSIDE AT JOHNS LAKE

The home at 16776 Broadwater Ave., Winter Garden, sold July 16, for $1,260,000. Built in 2018, it has five bedrooms, four-andone-half baths and 3,713 square feet of living area. Days on market: 35. WESTFIELD LAKES

Courtesy photo

The home at 8978 Sonoma Coast Drive, Winter Garden, sold July 15, for $1,175,000. It was the largest transaction in Horizon West from July 13 to 19. The sellers were represented by JoAnn Best, Charles Rutenberg Realty Orlando.

The home at 12469 Westfield Lakes Circle, Winter Garden, sold July 15, for $1,000,000. Built in 2004, it has five bedrooms, four baths and 3,451 square feet. Days on market: Eight.

OrangeObserver.com

OBSERVER | THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2026

11A

2026 HURRICANE SEASON goes a step further and requires that space to stay clear, not used for storage. That’s not just a code technicality. In an emergency, that clearance is what lets you, or your electrician, reach the panel safely and quickly.

DOWNLOAD THE GUIDE The Orlando-based contractor Palmer Electric has created a safety guide for homeowners. To download the guide, visit palmer-electric.com/florida-hurricane-electrical-safety-guide. Your electrical panel is command central for your home’s power, so it’s the natural place to start your prep. Do you know exactly where your panel is, and could you find it in the dark? If not, that’s step one. Walk through these basics before storm season ramps up.

LABEL YOUR BREAKERS-

Label your breakers if they aren’t already, so you know at a glance which one controls your HVAC, kitchen, garage, pool equipment and outdoor circuits.

DOES YOUR PANEL HAVE GFCI AND AFCI BREAKER PROTECTION?

Make sure you know where your electrical panel is located — and that you can access it easily.

Adobe Stock

Prepare your electric panel before the storm Take these steps before a storm hits to ensure you keep you, your family and your home safe,

LOCATE YOUR PANEL

Don’t wait until floodwater is rising to go looking for your panel for the first time. In Florida homes, the electrical panel most often is found in the garage, laundry room, utility room, hallway or on an exterior wall near the meter. In condos and apartments, the panel that controls the unit is usually inside the living space, while the main service equipment is often located in a shared electrical room, meter room or exterior meter bank. Older homes can be less predictable, so it is always smart to locate your panel before storm season,

label the breakers and make sure nothing is blocking access.

ENSURE ACCESS TO THE PANEL

Make sure the area around it stays clear, with no storage boxes or furniture blocking access. Per the National Electrical Code Section 110.26(A), electrical panels need dedicated working space so they can be safely serviced while energized. The National Fire Protection Association, which publishes the NEC, summarizes that space should be at least 30 inches wide and 36 inches deep for typical residential panels. Section 110.26(B)

It is important to know whether your panel has GFCI and AFCI breaker protection, because these devices protect against two very different electrical hazards. GFCI protection helps reduce shock risk, especially around water, damp areas, garages, outdoor circuits and pool equipment. AFCI protection helps reduce fire risk by detecting dangerous arcing in damaged wiring, loose connections or aging circuits. In Florida, rain, lightning, humidity and storm damage can make weak electrical points more dangerous. If your home is older, or if you are not sure what type of protection your breakers provide, it is worth having a licensed electrician check. If your panel does not have GFCI or AFCI breaker protection, do not panic, but do not ignore it either. A licensed electrician can identify which circuits need added protection, and confirm whether your panel can accept modern GFCI, AFCI or dual-function breakers. In some homes, protection can be added at the breaker. In others, especially older homes, the safer answer might be a panel upgrade or targeted outlet-level protection.

DO YOU LIVE IN A FLOODING RISK AREA?

One more thing worth knowing if you’re near a lake, canal

or flood-prone area: Homes in certain flood zones are required to have electrical panel and service equipment elevated above the base flood elevation. If you’re not sure whether your home falls into that category, our certified electricians can take a look and let you know.

DO YOU LIVE IN A HOME BUILT BEFORE 1980?

If your home was built before the mid-1980s, it’s worth checking your panel’s brand. Panels made by Federal Pacific Electric, known as Stab-Lok panels, and Zinsco panels have a documented history of breakers that fail to trip during an overload, which is exactly when you need them most. Many Florida insurance carriers flag these panels during underwriting, and a four-point inspection may call them out as an electrical concern. If you’re not sure what you have, our certified electricians can check the label inside your panel door in a few minutes. Palmer Electric provides 24/7 emergency electrical service for Orlando and Central Florida homes and businesses. For more, visit palmerelectric.com.

Now’s the Time to Get Hurricane Ready

Directions and Latest Updates

✔ Create Evacuation Plan Verify Your Insurance Coverage Your insurance policy is just as important as all other items needed to properly prepare for a hurricane before it arrives. Call me today and make sure your policy is hurricane ready.

Jo Barsh Your Local Agent 407-299-0301 317 West Road Ocoee, FL 34761 JoBarsh.com

AUTO • HOME • RENTERS LIFE • HEALTH • BUSINESS

425076-1

463306-1

✔ Build Emergency Kit ✔ Prepare Home ✔ Prepare for Power Outage ✔

12A

OrangeObserver.com

OBSERVER | THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2026

2026 HURRICANE SEASON Is your landscape ready for a major storm? University of Florida experts provide top tips to maintain a resilient landscape. LOURDES MEDEROS UF/IFAS COMMUNICATIONS

Hurricane season is a part of life in Florida, but the damage isn’t limited to roofs and windows. Trees, lawns and landscapes also can take a major hit that might lead to costly repairs. After hurricanes Milton and Helene in 2024, residential losses topped $5 billion, with more than 287,000 claims tied to wind, flood and landscape destruction, according to the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation. Michael Orfanedes is a commercial horticulture agent at the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences. Based at UF/IFAS Extension Broward County, he reminds property owners that storm-ready means paying attention to what’s growing outside as much as what’s inside a home or business. “Having properly trimmed trees in advance of storm season is one of the most proactive things a homeowner or property manager can do to reduce tree losses and storm damage to property,” he said. To help homeowners and property managers take proactive steps, Orfanedes answers common and not-so-common landscape management questions providing longterm strategies for building storm resilience into your landscape.

What are the top three landscaping mistakes homeowners make before a storm? 1. Failing to have trees trimmed correctly in advance of a storm. 2. Leaving the yard and patio items unsecured. Outdoor furniture, garden tools, potted plants and decorations can become projectiles if not brought inside or properly stored. 3. Forgetting to turn off the sprinkler system in advance of a storm. Oversaturated soil from irrigation can make your yard more vulnerable to flooding and increase the chances of a shrub or tree being uprooted. Before a storm, how can I reduce the risk of tree damage and flying debris? Cracked or broken limbs should be removed. Trees with evidence of advanced trunk decay or a tree that is leaning severely should be evaluated by a certified arborist for possible removal. Limbs hanging over roof lines or close to buildings should be shortened. Always reduce branch length back to another lower limb. Do not top your tree by making indiscriminate stub cuts. Stub cuts typically cause decay. Sprouts attached to decaying wood are weakly attached. When those sprouts become large and weighty they might break apart. This practice not only is harmful to trees but also is a citable offense in some cities and counties by code enforcement that can lead to costly fines.

Limbs that extend over roof lines should be shortened well in advance of a storm.

How can property owners tell if a tree is at risk of falling during a storm? Look for trees that lean to one side or another — especially toward your home or other structures. Also check for trees with uneven or lopsided canopies, and those with large broken or decayed roots. These signs might indicate that the tree is unstable and more likely to fall during high winds. Also, look for trees with exposed roots that have been repeatedly damaged by lawn mowing or other activities. If damage looks extensive, such trees could be weakened or even unstable and at a higher

risk of falling during strong wind events. Trees with significant cracks or hollowed areas in the trunk or in major scaffold limbs should be evaluated for risk of failure. Residents who need a professional risk assessment of their tree are encouraged to contact an arborist certified by the International Society of Arboriculture who holds a Tree Risk Assessment Qualification credential. One can locate a certified arborist from treeworknow.com.

Adobe Stock

Is it safe to prune trees during hurricane season, or should it be done earlier? Tree trimming can be done any time of the year; however, it is best done in advance of storm season when working conditions are typically more favorable to outdoor work and prices might be lower. Trees can be pruned during storm season but should not be pruned right before a storm because there might not be adequate time to properly dispose of the fallen limbs and brush. Know that trimmed branches left outdoors during a storm can become dangerous projectiles.

Don’t let this happen to you.

Call West Tree Services before the storm hits.

FREE ESTIMATES! Proudly Serving Central Florida since 2017 Family Owned & Operated

Call 407-427-3920 155 W. Oakland Ave. Ocoee, Florida 34761

FULL SERVICE TREE CREW RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL TREE TRIMMING & REMOVAL 464577-1 383306-1

www.westtreeservices.com

OrangeObserver.com

13A

OBSERVER | THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2026

2026 HURRICANE SEASON Lake Apopka district shares hurricane tips If you’re a customer of Lake Apopka Natural Gas District, there are several appliances in your home that utilize natural gas. Those include your range, dryer, water heater and pool/spa heaters. When hurricane season is upon us, we as Floridians, should be familiar with gas safety. When a hurricane threatens, leave the gas on unless notified by Lake Apopka Natural Gas District. Because most gas facilities are located underground, rarely does a hurricane threaten your service. Here are some tips regarding your specific appliances.

GAS RANGES Gas ranges with pilot lights require no additional care. Continue to cook as usual. When the electricity is off, surface top burners with electric ignition can be easily lit. Simply: n Light match (preferably a wooden match) n Hold match next to the top burner cap n Then, turn the control knob to the “light” or “high” setting. The burner will light, and you can adjust the flame. n Most ovens and broilers on ranges with electric ignition cannot be used when the power is off.

DRYER Most dryers have a safety valve, which automatically shuts off the flow of gas. In addition, your gas dryer needs electricity to operate.

OUTDOOR GRILL A portable grill should either be moved inside or securely tied down outside. A grill with a patio base should either be bolted down or disconnected and brought inside. A grill with a permanent post usually is secure and does not need any additional tie-down. The lid of any gas grill remaining outside should be securely tied closed to prevent it from snapping open. WATER HEATERS/ POOL AND SPA HEATERS Most water, pool and spa heaters have a safety valve that will automatically shut off the flow of gas if the pilot light goes out. Tankless water heaters need a UPS backup device, connection to a 120V standby generator or a 12V inverter. IF ASKED TO EVACUATE Leave the gas on. Turning off the gas could result in unnecessary delays in restoring your service. It is not necessary to turn off the gas at your meter or, if you use propane, at your tank. Should Lake Apopka Natural Gas deem it necessary to turn off the service, company representatives will inform you. By leaving the gas on, you will be able to cook, and as long as there is a reliable supply of water, you will have hot water. Leaving the gas on also helps you avoid reconnection fees. AFTER A HURRICANE Clean-up efforts after previous hurricanes show that more gas lines are broken during cleanup rather than during the actual storm. Before removing fallen trees, call for a free utility-line location by Dialing 811.

NEW

File photo

Even when the power is out, gas ranges with pilot lights can be used. The surface top burners can be lit safely with a wooden match.

IF YOU SMELL GAS Do not do anything to cause a spark (i.e., using a garage door opener, portable phone, etc.). Immediately evacuate the premises and call Lake Apopka Natural Gas District’s 24/7 emergency number at (800) 542-3344 or 911. It is important to call from a telephone away from the building where you smell gas. In the case of a gas leak, the district’s first responsibility is to make sure the area is safe. Service will be restored as soon

as possible. All district personnel carry identification and will, upon request, show their identification before entering your home.

IF FLOODING OCCURS If your home or business was flooded and gas appliances were underwater, do not attempt to operate the appliances. Water can cause damage to the internal safety mechanism and create a hazardous condition. Call Lake Apopka Natural Gas or a qualified appliance contractor for a safety

inspection and to relight the pilot lights on your appliances.

CHECK YARD FOR LOOSE ITEMS Move and secure items not firmly installed before the storm arrives. This includes grills, patio furniture, swings, pool equipment and supplies, even water-hose reels. Items such as these can be blown around by hurricane winds causing unnecessary damage to your home, propane tank or gas meter.

NOW OPEN

When the unexpected happens, you can count on HCA Florida West Orange Emergency to be here for you. We are part of the HCA Florida Healthcare family, Florida’s largest ER network. Our board-certified physicians and highly trained nurses specialize in emergency medicine, diagnosing and treating all emergency conditions for adults and pediatric patients including: • Injuries, such as fractures and lacerations

1320 Daniels Rd.

Located at 1320 Daniels Rd. in Winter Garden, we offer 24/7 emergency care and leading-edge technologies. West Colonial Drive

Daniels Road

COURTESY OF LAKE APOPKA NATURAL GAS DISTRICT

HCA Florida West Orange Emergency

429

Florida’s Turnpike

• Stomach or abdominal pain • Chest pain • Stroke

Scan to learn more about our ER services or go to HCAFloridaHealthcare.com

457799-1 464640-1

• Upper respiratory infections

OrangeObserver.com

OBSERVER | THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2026

Are you Ready for Hurricane Season? With Natural Gas We Keep The Lights On Call 407-656-2734 or email: EnergyChoice@langd.org to get Natural Gas to your home or business…when the storm is here it’s too late!

Be Ready, Not Reactive: Prepare for Hurricane Season Now

lorida earned its nickname as the Sunshine State with beautiful, sun-soaked days filling out most of the year, but as hurricane season approaches, it also becomes one of the most storm-vulnerable states in the country. June 1 marks the official start of hurricane season, meaning that now – not later – is the perfect time to make sure you and your family are prepared. At Lake Apopka Natural Gas District (LANGD), we’re proud to support our Central Florida neighbors by offering the most reliable energy solution. We know firsthand that one of the smartest ways to prepare for hurricane season is by choosing safe, reliable natural gas. Unlike electricity, which is vulnerable to downed power lines and service disruptions, natural gas is delivered through underground pipelines, meaning you can depend on it even during the harshest storms. That’s part of the reason why critical service providers like hospitals, fire stations, and emergency management centers depend on natural gas to stay up and running during critical times. Natural gas customers can also rely on essential appliances like water heaters and oven ranges to remain operational during power outages. When the lights go out, you’ll still be able to cook, clean, and take hot showers. For families, that type of reliability can bring much-needed peace of mind during uncertain times.

It’s not just about dependability either. Natural gas is also the smarter economic choice. Thanks to high-efficiency appliances and its lower cost, natural gas homes enjoy annual utility bills that are approximately 49% lower than those of comparable all-electric homes, according to the American Gas Association. That said, making the switch requires some planning to fulfill your natural gas service installation. That’s why we encourage homeowners to act now, before a storm is on the horizon. In addition to exploring reliable energy options, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recommends creating a full preparedness plan that includes keeping an emergency preparedness kit stocked and at the ready, knowing your evacuation routes ahead of time, creating a communication plan with family members and other important steps that you should take to help you and your family stay safe during hurricane season. Learn more at https://www.fema.gov/. Don’t wait until a storm is in the forecast. Now is the time to prepare and equip your home with natural gas to make sure you’re storm ready before hurricane season arrives.

For more information about natural gas services, safety tips, and how LANGD can support your energy needs, visit www.langd.org or contact our team at (407) 656-2734 or EnergyChoice@langd.org.

424318-1 451397-1 403488-1 424317-1

14A

AUGUST 6, 2026

SPORTS

FRIDAY NIGHT SIGHTS

HIGH

Maxey Elementary’s Aiden Howard was a huge part of the West Orange Boys & Girls Club’s summer basketball. Page 16A.

Winter Garden Little League is hosting a free speed and agility clinic 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, Aug. 8. The league is asking players to bring their shoes or cleats and water bottles. Registration is not required. WGLL also will host four division-specific camps. Rookies will be Saturday, Aug. 15, Minors Saturday, Aug. 22, Majors Saturday, Aug. 29, and Juniors and Seniors Saturday, Sept. 5. The clinic is in partnership with Built on Faith Sports. Garrett Johnson, who was raised in Winter Garden, founded the company to offer guidance to athletes as they develop. Register for the division camps by emailing info@ builtonfaithsports.com.

Hannah Symons, a junior at Foundation Academy, was selected to represent Florida at the 2026 Patriot Games Sunday, Aug. 9, to Tuesday, Aug. 11. The national competition selects one male and one female athlete from each state to compete for a $250,000 prize pool. it brings together top high school athletes from across the country. Symons competes in both soccer and lacrosse, and she will travel to the SPIRE Academy in August in Ohio to represent Florida. As the daughter of a retired U.S. Air Force fighter pilot, she said it’s especially meaningful to her to compete in an event that celebrates athletic excellence, leadership and service.

Ocoee Little League is offering free clinics from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. every Wednesday in August at Vandergrift Central Park, 560 Flewelling Ave., Ocoee. The clinics are free, and no registration is required. They are for ages 5 to 12 years old. Players will learn hitting, fielding, throwing and baserunning techniques.

Horizon High’s quarterback Quincy Darling announced he is transferring to Evans High School. The announcement comes after Darling spent his freshman year with the Hawks, playing under QBs Jared Visser and Kaio Oliveira. Horizon completed last season 4-6, while Evans finished 8-3, losing in the regional quarterfinals 20-6.

The First Academy announced it is working on growing its coaching team. The Royals are hiring an assistant boys lacrosse coach and JV cheerleading coaches. The boys lacrosse team celebrated an accomplished season last year with head coach Reed Reynolds reaching his 150th career win Wednesday, March 4, and player Jackson Jones being named 2026 Academic AllAmerican for his academic and athletic success. The team ended the season 14-6, and the assistant coach will help to continue the success when the spring sports roll back around. To apply, visit thefirstacademy.org/about/careers.

West Orange High football team has returned a core group of players to help continue the program’s history of success.

FIELD OF SCHEMES

Before the 2026 football season kicks off, here’s an under-the-helmet look into the seven public high school squads in West Orange and Southwest Orange. Coverage sponsored by: Foundation Academy Athletics MEGAN BRUINSMA

HORIZON HIGH

STAFF WRITER

6A REGION 2 DISTRICT 7 Head coach: Dennis Thomas, sixth year

n two short weeks, the sounds of pads clashing on the field will ring across West Orange and Southwest Orange as the 2026 high school football season kicks off. After far too long, Friday night lights are back. The lineups across the gridiron will look different following the Florida High School Athletic Association’s December decision to remove Class 7A, bringing the classes down to six. Rather than Ocoee and West Orange high schools facing off and Dr. Phillips taking on Olympia for their respective district crowns, Dr. Phillips, Olympia and West Orange now are pooled together in Class 6A Region 2 District 6. Ocoee and Horizon now will become foes in the district competition in Class 6A Region 2 District 7. In addition, excitement is brewing for Independent Division schools, which now will have the chance to compete for a postseason title after the FHSAA named its inaugural Independent League. Lake Buena Vista and Windermere high schools will be pooled together in Independent’s Pool A, North bracket. They will play a regular schedule, and their records will determine the standings for the postseason championship run. This week, we will take you onto the practice fields at the seven public high schools in West Orange and Southwest Orange. Next week, we will do the same for the private schools.

walks through the doors, through the weight room and onto the field, they are expected to put in everything they have. It’s the team’s standard and it will be their job to uphold it. Everyone understands it and that’s what will pave the way for their success once again. “Being a player at Dr. Phillips means there’s always a standard you have to live by,” running back Justin Felton II said. “No matter how hard it gets, you always have to put in the grit and the work to get it.” Felton is in position to become one of the starting rotating RBs for the Panthers’ lineup after its No. 1 running back graduated. Outside of a new coaching staff and some new pieces, the core of DP is remaining the same and will carry over their understanding of each other into every Friday night. Quarterback Tien Williams, who played in DP’s two-man QB rotation last year and threw for more than 600 yards, became a student of the game over the summer. Williams took the “all in” motto to heart, working in the weight room as well on his footwork to help the Panthers return to a state championship.

Photos by Megan Bruinsma

The Panthers are finding their groove through the first week of practice.

DR. PHILLIPS HIGH

6A REGION 2 DISTRICT 6 Head coach: Caleb Walls, first year SCHEDULE Games begin at 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 21, at The First Academy Thursday, Sept. 10, at Timber Creek Friday, Sept. 18, at Winter Park Friday, Sept. 25, at Olympia* Friday, Oct. 2, vs. Osceola Friday, Oct. 9, vs. West Orange* Friday, Oct. 16, vs. Windermere Friday, Oct. 23, vs. Edgewater* Friday, Oct. 30, at Evans * District game

RIVALRY GAME: West Orange High, Friday, Oct. 9 Name: Ole Orange Crate game for the orange crate 2025 result: Lost 28-19

Dr. Phillips might have a new face leading its program, but that

doesn’t mean one should look at the longstanding dominating force in the football scene any differently. First-year head coach Caleb Walls and his new coaching staff is made up of many other former Panthers who experienced the sweet taste of a state championship appearance , and they are prepared to continue DP’s legacy of production. They are the last Orange County team to win a state championship, which came in 2017. “The expectations are still the same,” Walls said. “Dr. Phillips has a standard. We want to keep that standard going and elevate it. Our goal is to win every game. That’s why we work and that’s why we prepare for these games. This offseason’s been big for us. So we’re going to continue doing what we got to do to make sure Dr. Phillips football stays Dr. Phillips football.” The Panthers’ motto remains: All in. Every time a player or coach

SCHEDULE Games begin at 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 21, vs. Lake Buena Vista Friday, Aug. 28, at West Orange Friday, Sept. 2, vs. Olympia Thursday, Sept. 10, at Cypress Creek Friday, Sept. 18, at Apopka Friday, Sept. 25, vs. Ocoee* Friday, Oct. 2, at Boone Friday, Oct. 9, at East Ridge Friday, Oct. 23, at Celebration* Friday, Oct. 30, vs. Windermere * District game

RIVALRY GAME: Windermere High, Friday, Oct. 30 Name: Battle of the Grove for the Smudge Pot 2025 result: Lost 48-15

For the past six years, Horizon’s football team has been built from the ground up, starting with training at Bridgewater Middle School and using portables as locker rooms to now having a shiny new weight room. The Hawks have all the pieces needed to find production and will use those tools as the team pursues its goal to keep elevating. Head coach Dennis Thomas said that’s been the Hawks’ motto from the beginning. His squad is putting its best foot forward to get back to its best season which was 7-3 in 2022-23, although they’re striving to do even better. “Our goal is the playoffs, and SEE TEAMS PAGE 16A

OrangeObserver.com

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

OBSERVER | THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2026

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

Aiden Howard West Orange Boys & Girls Club 7-year-old Aiden Howard began playing basketball only one year ago. In that year, he has grown to become an important part of the club’s summer basketball program, which played its last game Saturday, July 25. Howard, a third-grader at Maxey Elementary School, learned the fundamentals of basketball through the Boys & Girls Club’s summer youth basketball camps. He discovered his talents on the defensive side of the ball during the camp’s weekly Saturday games.

What do you enjoy most about basketball? The thing I enjoy most about playing basketball is being part of a team. When did you start basketball, and why did you join? I started playing basketball when I was 6 years old, because my older brother was playing, and I wanted to join. What is your best memory in basketball — individually or with your team? My favorite memory was the game when I shot the gamewinning shot. What has basketball taught you? Basketball has taught me about being part of a team, and I have learned how to be an accountable person. How would you describe yourself as a teammate? I think others would describe

THE BASICS

Age: Seven Grade: Third School: Maxey Elementary Sport: Basketball

me as a defensive player (who) puts in the work every play. What advice would you give someone who just started playing basketball? My advice to someone who just joined would be practice while you’re at home in your free time. Also don’t give up even when it gets tough.

Horizon High’s players are geared up for the program’s sixth year.

Teams prep for new year

If you were a coach, what speech would you give the team? I would tell them they’re doing a good job and to keep up their good work. We are still in the game until the buzzer goes off.

year of high school football. The Vipers will aim to beat out their opponents through their blocking and tackling.

OLYMPIA HIGH

6A REGION 2 DISTRICT 6 Head coach: Travis Gabriel, eighth year

What is your pre-game ritual? Before every game, I always drink water, eat a light meal and warm up my shots before the game starts. Who do you look up to the most? I admire my older brother, Malachi. What is something new you would like to learn? I am looking forward to learning to read music and how to play an instrument in the future. Where would you want to live if you weren’t in Florida? I would love to live in New York if I didn’t live in Florida. If you won the lottery, what would you do with the money? If I won the lottery, I would buy a home and also give a donation to the homeless organization. What future career do you want to have? I have the dream of becoming an astronaut when I grow up. If you became famous, what would it be for? I would become famous for doing a prank on my older sister, Essence, who I enjoy annoying. If you had to pick a spirit animal, which would you choose? My spirit animal would be a dinosaur. Why did you pick your jersey number? My jersey number was randomly assigned to me.

Photos by Megan Bruinsma

Preston Herring, right, ran at a blocker during practice. CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15A

once we reach that, then we’ll have another goal,” he said. “Elevated pursuit is our motto. The creed is to look to the horizon. We’re just going to keep going.” Players such as senior running back Rodrigo Tolentino are stepping up. Tolentino didn’t see much playing time as a RB last year, when the Hawks had their go-to dualthreat player, senior Kaio Oliveira. Now the No. 1 man is gone, and former sophomores and juniors like Tolentino are stepping up. “This year’s team, first of all, is a strong team; we have two regional (weightlifting) champions,” Thomas said. “We aren’t playing around in the weight room, and we have some additional guys who we think are going to be amazing for us.”

LAKE BUENA VISTA HIGH

INDEPENDENT POOL A, NORTH Head coach: Shawn Holmes, first year

Family. Friends. Community.

Shannon Till, Agent Fowler’s Grove 3279 Daniels Rd Winter Garden, FL 34787 Toll Free: 855-742-1591 www.shannontill.com

SCHEDULE Games begin at 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 21, at Horizon Friday, Aug. 28, vs. Wekiva Friday, Sept. 11, at Innovation* Friday, Sept. 18, at Cypress Creek* — MEGAN Friday, Sept. 25, vs. Colonial* BRUINSMA Friday, Oct. 9, at Freedom* Friday, Oct. 16, vs. University* Friday, Oct. 23, vs. Oak Ridge* We’re all in this together. Friday, Oct. 30, at Braden River

State Farm® has a long tradition of being there. That’s one reason why I’m proud to support West Orange county.. Get to a better State®.

* District game

Family. Family . Friends. Friends. Community. Community . Athlete of the Week Sponsored by Shannon Till,

We’re all in this together.

Shannon Till, Agent We’re all all in this together. We’ re in this together. TM Fowler’s Grove 3279 Daniels Rd ® State Farm® has a long tradition State Farm has a long tradition Winter Garden, FL 34787 Toll Free: 855-742-1591 of being there.there. That’s one reason of being That’s one reason www.shannontill.com

why

why I’m proudproud to support West I’ m

suppor t

West

Orange county.. Orange count 1211007 y.. State Farm, Bloomington, IL State Farm has Get a long to a a betterbetter State . Get to State . tradition of being there. That’s one reason why I’m proud to support 1620 Daniels Rd, Ste 110 West Orange county. Winter Garden, FL 34787 ®

1211007 State Farm, Bloomington, IL Farm, Blooming ton, IL

Let us do what we do best, so you can do what you love. Visit our website to learn more about LaPorte Financial and how we can help you prepare for your financial future.

for Your Financial Wellness

336 E Plant St Winter Garden, FL 34787 www.laportefinancial.com PHONE: (407) 395-9720 FAX: 866-250-4831 Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a registered investment advisor, Member FINRA/SIPC

452507-1_V2

Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a registered investment advisor, Member FINRA/SIPC

WE GO THE EXTRA MILE

REACH OUT TODAY AND GET STARTED WITH A FINANCIAL WELLNESS CHECKUP

407-656-4000 I www.shannontill.com Hablamos Español

407-395-9720 www.laportefinancial.com

Lake Buena Vista is beginning * District game the season with a new staff. The RIVALRY GAME: Vipers will be a small but mighty squad, with only 26 players on the West Orange High, Friday, Oct. 23 Name: Backyard Bowl for the roster. It will be crucial for each fence of them to have a development mindset and adaptability through 2025 result: Lost 48-0 every snap of the game. Many of Last year, the injury bug bit the players only have played in Olympia as crucial players went one game prior to joining Lake down early. But in the offseason, Buena Vista’s team. The smaller Olympia prioritized health and numbers mean they will priorirecovery. tize having a faster transition to Head coach Travis Gabriel’s maintain the ball on offense and core group of senior captains — tire out their opponents’ defense Russell Britt, Colton Showley before the Vipers themselves and Noble Davis — are prepared become fatigued. Summer workouts prioritized exactly that, with to step into their roles as leaders both on and off the field. They an emphasis on higher energy, won’t talk down or yell at their too. teammates, but rather build them “Competitive focus is like a from the ground up. muscle, and we train it like one,” “They’re just going to gel head coach Shawn Holmes said. together as a team,’’ Gabriel said. Holmes entered a program in a rebuilding year. Many of the play- “I don’t think there’s any individualism going on within the team. ers from last year left after midI think they all just working hard season coaching changes. This and they just want one goal. The year is about building a culture from scratch that can sustain suc- only number that matters is the win. They don’t care who is doing cess for the next 10-plus years. what. They just want to compete The Vipers’ four core values are and fight with each other.” pride, attitude, integrity and disLast season, the Titans lost cipline, and they will work toward close games they should have won achieving those in everything had they been more disciplined. they do. It applies to football, This year, discipline no longer class and all aspects of life. will be an issue — the players have While the Vipers will continue recognized the errors and are to work toward discovering their identity with many new faces, one ready to make a real change. The Titans’ mindset has shifted and is coming in with experience and they’re trusting in their experian understanding of Holmes — enced coach. his son, Preston Herring. HerWhat hasn’t shifted is its pieces ring and his dad both are coming on the field that will pave the way from Bronson High, and Herring for success. Davis, who started in is bringing with him two years of experience. He will primarily play the quarterback slot for Olympia last year, once again will return linebacker and tight end for the to attack the air for the Titans. Vipers, along with other physical The Planning QB recorded more than 1,000 players on the linebackers front. Comprehensive Financial yards in 2025 and hopes to exceed Holmes said the team has that this season. everything it needs to have a proInvestment Management ductive year, and he already has seen improvements in the players Retirement Income SEE FOOTBALL PAGE 18A who are experiencing their first Strategies

Medicare & Long Term Healthcare Planning Social Security Strategies

We Simplify the Complex

Michael LaPorte AIF, CLU, ChFC Founder & Private Wealth Manager

SCHEDULE Games begin at 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 21, vs. Colonial Friday, Aug. 28, at Timber Creek Friday, Sept. 4, at Horizon Thursday, Sept. 10, vs. Apopka Friday, Sept. 18, at Windermere Friday, Sept. 25, vs. Dr. Phillips* Friday, Oct. 2, vs. Oak Ridge Friday, Oct. 9, at Edgewater* Friday, Oct. 23, at West Orange* Friday, Oct. 30, vs. East River

The Titans’ 2026 roster has gelled together for the upcoming year.

403869-1

16A

OrangeObserver.com

OBSERVER | THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2026

17A

OrangeObserver.com

OBSERVER | THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2026

WEST ORANGE HIGH

6A REGION 2 DISTRICT 6 Head coach: Geno Thompson, sixth year SCHEDULE Games begin at 7 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 20, vs. Archbishop Hoban Friday, Aug. 28, vs. Horizon Friday, Sept. 4, vs. Wekiva Thursday, Sept. 10, vs. Ocoee Friday, Sept. 18, at Lake Mary Friday, Sept. 25, at Edgewater* Friday, Oct. 9, at Dr. Phillips* Friday, Oct. 16, vs. South Lake Friday, Oct. 23, vs. Olympia* Friday, Oct. 30, at Jones * District game

Photo by Megan Bruinsma

Ocoee’s new faces quickly have found their groove as Knights. CONTINUED FROM PAGE 16A

OCOEE HIGH

6A REGION 2 DISTRICT 7 Head coach: Buck Gurley, fourth year SCHEDULE Games begin at 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 21, at Edgewater Friday, Sept. 4, at Apopka Thursday, Sept. 10, at West Orange Friday, Oct. 2, vs. Jones Friday, Oct. 9, at Celebration* Friday, Oct. 16, at Boone Friday, Oct. 23, vs. East Ridge* Friday, Oct. 30, at Winter Park * District game

RIVALRY GAME: West Orange High, Thursday, Sept. 10 Name: Battle for the Shield 2025 result: Lost 21-14

Ocoee has one main goal: finish. In 2025, the team always started each of its games strong, but looking through the stats, the Knights always lost in the fourth quarter for most of its six losses. The Knights hope to put an end to that trend. The work to change the trajectory began through the summer workouts. Head coach Buck Gurley said the players did a wonderful job about turning up through their break from classes, averaging 128 players at every workout. “The guys that we have now — they

are excited,” Gurley said. “They’re playing with a lot of intensity right now, so we’re going to see something different. We’re still young, which is what I like. But we’re going to see something completely different with these guys this year.” The Knights have had major swings in its roster, with a rampant transfer portal and new names, including new quarterback Nathanial Watkins, who is aiming to throw for more than 2,500 yards per game. One of the biggest new names the Knights brought in to help elevate the team to the next level didn’t come from the players roster but rather the coaching staff. Ocoee now has Sammy Watkins, a former Super Bowl champion, as its wide receivers coach. “Sammy is a huge part of the puzzle that we’re trying to build at Ocoee,” Gurley said. “We’re trying to get guys (who) are willing to teach these young guys what it is to play the game and how it’s lifting, making it to that next level.” Watkins’ knowledge combined with the other members of the staff and Gurley, who also played in the NFL, will be fused together to teach the young men consistency. “We’ve always been consistent,” Gurley said. “We just haven’t had that finish mentality. Now we’re to the point where we’re just kind of tired, 5-5 doesn’t work. Now we have to get out of that habit.”

RIVALRY GAMES: Dr. Phillips High, Ole Orange Crate Game, Friday, Oct. 9 2025 result: Won 28-19 Ocoee High, Battle for the Shield, Thursday, Sept. 10 2025 result: Won 21-14 Olympia High, Backyard Bowl, Friday, Oct. 23 2025 result: Won 48-0

West Orange once again has set itself up to be a dominating force on the gridiron. Quarterback AJ Chung, who set records with his powerful sophomore season with 41 passing touchdowns, is ready to start his junior campaign and rewrite his own records. His righthand receiver, Yuto KawamuraJohnson, who averaged 63.8 yards per game, will be back in the blueand-orange gear. The Warriors’ hammer, running back Jayden Ammons, who averaged 61.5 yards per game last season and led the team with 12 total touchdowns, also is making his senior-year return. “I want to hit that second level, and nobody will be able to catch me, so I’m working on finishing plays, not necessarily getting bigger but getting faster in the pace of my game,” Ammons said of his offseason preparation. With many returning faces on the offensive side of the ball, the Warriors’ offense, which averaged 4.4 touchdowns per game, is in prime position to maintain its history of

success and present a competitive front in the postseason. The Warriors’ turnover mostly has come on the defensive side, but the team’s secondary is solid. Linebackers are playing at a high level, and new faces will make their way onto the field. “(Thompson) makes it really easy for us to play football at a high level and our expectation for next year is going to be really high because … the people that graduated, they left us (with) a high expectation for our performance last year and how they carry themselves at the school,” edge rusher Matheus Kaminski said.

WINDERMERE HIGH

INDEPENDENT POOL A, NORTH Head coach: Riki Smith, fifth year SCHEDULE Games begin at 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 21, vs. Winter Park Friday, Sept. 4, at Edgewater Thursday, Sept. 10, vs. Wekiva Friday, Sept. 18, vs. Olympia Friday, Sept. 24, vs. Liberty Friday, Oct. 9, at St. Cloud Friday, Oct. 16, at Dr. Phillips Friday, Oct. 23, vs. Freedom* Friday, Oct. 30, at Horizon

most summer participation from his new squad. Any losses the team might take are lessons for the bigger picture: a state championship at the end of the season. Smith worked at DP for 14 years, and he’s earned a championship ring. But rather than chasing another title, he is working on getting the boys in shape for their year to come and the years that will follow. Despite losing 29 seniors, new pieces already have fallen into place. Smith said he sees a new sense of determination and understanding on the team. Previous rosters understood the situation they were in — no championship ring to chase — and they were fine with it. This year’s team also understands the scenario they’re in and the postseason stakes with which they’re presented. Likewise, Smith is eager to see how his Wolverines stack up against the “big boys.” They will win through the little tasks. Win in the weight room, the recovery process, training and nutrition. Those baby steps are how Windermere will approach its year. “Adversity is inevitable,” Smith said. “It’s how you respond.”

* District game

RIVALRY GAME: Horizon High, Friday, Oct. 30 Name: Battle of the Grove for the Smudge Pot 2025 result: Won 48-15

The Wolverines found themselves in position to celebrate back-toback 10-0 seasons. An incredible feat, but entering this year, the team is erasing its memory. The past helped teach Windermere what it could be, how to find success within themselves. Now, as the team takes the field against dominating forces across the football landscape, it will combine its previous knowledge to show up against those names such as Edgewater and Dr. Phillips. The team’s winning culture and teamfirst mindset will be set as it takes on the field for its inaugural season in the North of Independent division. Now their focus is about development. Head coach Riki Smith saw the

Windermere High is ready to forget the past and focus on the future.

PRESCHOOL THROUGH 12TH GRADE

Traditional College Prep

Tour Today! 407-206-8602

Hybrid Home+School Distinct Abilities Learning

500116-1

18A

OrangeObserver.com

OBSERVER | THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2026

19A

BRAINFOO COOL CATS I Calliope Eng // Research Aria Eng // Artwork