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In a bold and impassioned drive, the People of Wekiwa Springs (POWS) have shown an unyielding commitment to clinching the 2023 Corridor of the Year (COY) title in Orange County’s District 2. With Wekiwa Springs Road having secured a win in 2021, POWS is all set to recreate history with its impressive endeavors surrounding this year’s entry – Votaw Road.
The recent October 21 event was just another example of an overwhelming response from the community, indicative of the unity and determination the POWS holds. As the judgment day of November 4th approaches, another massive turnout is eagerly anticipated for the final weekend this Saturday, October 28, 2023.
A central theme of the POWS’ journey has been community involvement. And not just from individuals. Local businesses have also stepped up, underscoring the collaborative spirit of the corridor. Noteworthy is the contribution from the local Pinch-a-Penny store, which donated chlorine that played a pivotal role in beautifying the sidewalks. Likewise, Kirby’s Outdoor Services made a commendable gesture by donating over 600 gallons of water and pressure washing over a quarter mile of stubbornly stained sidewalks during the October 21 initiative.
Over the past months, the POWS organization has invested thousands of dollars from funds raised by its community members to enhance Votaw Road. From countless hours of labor to providing essentials like water for workers and vegetation for beautification, POWS has left no stone unturned in its mission.
Other contenders, like the Lockhart Area with Eden Park Road, also showcased immense dedication. Their 150th Anniversary Celebration, scheduled for November 18, and the active engagement in monthly meetings, chaired by the newly-installed President Lindsey Smestad, demonstrates the relentless community spirit.
Similarly, other corridors, such as Clarcona-Ocoee Road in North Pine Hills, Apopka Blvd in the Southern Apopka Area, and the soon-to-be participant Rock Springs Road in the Northern Apopka Area, have all brought their best foot forward.
However, POWS’ commitment shines exceptionally bright. Under Jeff Engelbrecht’s guidance, the area has undergone a transformation. Not only have Sue Henesy, Debby Stevens, Bob Samson, Richard Lippert, and Debbie Mills led the newly-formed People of Wekiwa Springs organization with zeal, but they’ve also been instrumental in initiating community-centric activities such as the inaugural Easter Egg Hunt and the painting of the “Wekiwa Springs” mural at Thompson & Votaw roads.
The excitement doesn’t end here. The November 16th Fourth Quarterly Leaders Meeting at Clay Springs Elementary School promises to be a grand event, recognizing the efforts of the most active corridor chiefs. A commemorative video or PowerPoint presentation, curated by Alexander Quinones, will capture the essence of the 2023 Corridor of the Year Friendly Competition.
The winning corridor is set to receive various benefits, such as a street bench, pole banners, infrastructure upgrades, and new LED street lighting (if required). Beyond the material rewards, the crux of the Neighborhood Leaders Program lies in facilitating harmony between HOA and neighborhood leaders. Promoting law enforcement best practices, like trimming trees, cutting bushes, and improving lighting, aims to boost property values and deter criminals.
The overarching vision is simple yet profound. A clean, well-lit, meticulously cared-for community naturally becomes averse to crime and harmful elements. This philosophy underscores why corridors like Votaw Road have seen initiatives to whiten sidewalks, prune trees, and beautify landscape beds.
In a world where individual efforts often take the spotlight, the COY contest and, more specifically, the endeavors of the POWS remind us of the strength of collective action. As judgment day nears, the People of Wekiwa Springs stand as a testament to what a community can achieve when united in purpose and action.
