Times& WEST ORANGE
Observer WEST ORANGE COUNTY’S NEWSPAPER FOR 109 YEARS
THURSDAY
DECEMBER 18, 2014
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WINTER GARDEN, FLORIDA
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EXCLUSIVE
SPORTS
Santa makes an early appearance at Oakland bash. PAGE 12A
Photography exhibit honors achievements of Sheriff Dave Starr. PAGE 9A
Dr. Phillips falls to Oviedo in hoops classic. PAGE 2B
by Peter M. Gordon | Contributing Writer OUR TOWN governance
Winter Garden commissioners approve repair for Brandy Creek
+ W.G. names contest winners Congratulations to all the winners of the 2014 Winter Garden De-Light-Ful Decorations contest. • Best Overall: Dennis Duckwiler (529 S. Lakeview Ave.) • Most Original, First Place: Todd Cramer (12542 Westfield Lakes Circle) • Most Original, Second Place: Bill and Kathy Barrett (414 Courtlea Oaks Blvd.) • Best Theme, First Place: William and Danielle Cooney (466 Forest Haven Drive) • Best Theme, Second Place: Jason and Tiffany Halley (15161 Ovation Drive) • Best Apartment/ Townhome, First Place: Bill Smith and Harry Gallagher (1286 Westside Drive) • Best Apartment/ Townhome, Second Place: Leyna Rossi (1273 Priory Circle)
If left untouched, the failing PVC pipes could result in damaged lawns, roads and even homes. The repairs will cost an estimated $500,000. WINTER GARDEN — Recent inspections of stormwater pipes in the Brandy Creek development, north of West Plant Street and east of Tildenville School Road, revealed many of the original PVC pipes are
in danger of collapsing. City Manager Mike Bollhoefer said the roads in the development are safe for now, but unless the pipes were replaced in the near future, lawns, roads and even homes would be in danger of
collapsing. Therefore, he asked the commission to authorize city staff to expedite the contract process to enable work to begin as soon as possible. The city has repaired individual pipes in
various areas of the development, but staff believes the best long-term solution is to replace and upgrade the polyethylene pipes with longer-lasting materials throughout the entire system.
I
by Zak Kerr | Staff Writer
Windermere leaders move forward with Windsong Opposing residents say the project will cause traffic issues.
Photo courtesy Nicole Barclay
Richie Nieves is back at home, recuperating with his family — wife Tammy and children Kai, left, and Ambriah.
HOME
for the
HOLIDAYS
Richie Nieves hopes to raise $20,000 to pay medical bills and repay family for flying him home for recovery.
OCOEE — He was supposed to be gone just four days. But during a business trip to California last month, Richie Nieves was having pain in one of his legs, and by that night, his entire body was shaking uncontrollably. After a visit to an urgent-care facility, he was rushed to Eisenhower Medical
WO This week’s winner is
Stephanie Berry. See the photo on PAGE 7B.
COMMISSION / PAGE 8A
DEVELOPMENT
LONG ROAD by Amy Quesinberry Rhode | Community Editor
+ Puppet show marches into W.G. Remember Pinocchio’s Marionette Theater from Culture Fest and other Winter Garden performances? The Florida Film Academy will host Pinocchio’s Marionette Theater’s performance of “Little Drummer Boy” this week and next. Performances will take place at 10:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 20, Monday, Dec. 22, Tuesday, Dec. 23, and Saturday, Dec. 27; 1, 2 and 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 21 and 28; and 10:30 and 11:30 a.m. Friday, Dec. 26, at the studio, 270 W. Plant St., Winter Garden. Tickets are $6 per person; free for children under age 2.
Mayor John Rees moved the repair discussion to the top of the agenda because Brandy Creek residents filled many of the seats in the City Hall Commission Chamber at the start of the meeting. Commissioner Bob Buchanan underscored the need to act quickly.
Center, where the Ocoee husband and father of two would remain for 25 days, undergoing treatment for necrotizing fasciitis. This bacterial infection, commonly called a “flesh-eating infection,” spreads quickly, destroying the body’s soft tissue. Doctors stopped the in-
fection from spreading beyond his leg; they do not know how he contracted it. While he recuperated in the California hospital, his wife, Tammy, was by his side; their children, Ambriah, 5, and Kai, almost 2, were being cared for
HOW TO HELP To make a donation to the Nieves family, visit gofundme.com/ i5nl6s?pc=mb_em. So far, about $7,000 has been raised.
NIEVES / PAGE 6A
WINDERMERE — For the third consecutive month, Windermere residents gathered with the Windermere Town Council to address the proposed Windsong at Windermere development, Dec. 9 at Town Hall. After another series of residents’ complaints, the council approved moving forward with Windsong developers for the site, 3-1. This included redesignating the 36-acre site from Orange County Rural/Agriculture to Windermere Planned Unit Development; rezoning all of the plot, except 4.19 acres of Lake Rhea wetlands, as Windsong Planned Unit Development from Orange County Rural Country Estate; the first hearing of the Windsong developers agreement; and the Windsong preliminary development plan, updated Nov. 29. Although the council voted to move forward, its members still can help tweak plans. Each member had at least one reservation regarding the latest development plan, but the three affirming members feared losing what they see as a quality developer. “We currently are working with quality people,” Councilman Mike Pirozzolo said. “I fear that opportunity is not going to come up again. Something’s going to be developed there. I’m 100% convinced of that.
WINDERMERE / PAGE 6A
INDEX Calendar.................................2A Cops Corner............................7A
Crossword...............................7B Obituaries.............................16A
Real Estate.........................6-7B Schools..........................12-13A
Sports.....................................1B Weather..................................7B
Vol. 82, No. 50 , Three sections
WOTimes.com
Love One Another…Matthew 5:14-16 A MESSAGE FROM NEXT COMMUNITY CHURCH CHRISTMAS EVE CANDLELIGHT SERVICE 6:00 PM
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WEST ORANGE TIMES
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2014
COMMUNITYCALENDAR THURSDAY, DEC. 18
MONDAY, DEC. 22
Eco Movie Night — 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 18, at the Oakland Nature Preserve, 747 Machete Trail. A showing of “Your Inner Fish” will take place. This scientific adventure story takes viewers from Ethiopia to the Arctic Circle on a hunt for the many ways that our animal ancestors shaped our anatomical destiny. Come face-to-face with your “inner fish” during this new take on the human body. For more information, call (407) 905-0054.
CareerSource Central Florida — 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday, Dec. 22, at the Winter Garden Library, 805 E. Plant St. Spend some time with the experts from CareerSource Central Florida to explore the services they provide and connect with employment opportunities using career counseling, skill development workshops and more. For more information, call (407) 835-7323.
Jungle Jam — 3:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 18, at the Windermere Library, 530 Main St. Children ages 6 to 12 can hang out with King Louie and Baloo while creating a jungle craft during a screening of “The Jungle Book.” For more information, call (407) 835-7323.
SATURDAY, DEC. 20 Ecosystem Hike — 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 20, at Orange County Parks’ Tibet-Butler Preserve, 8777 County Road 535, Orlando. Walk with a preserve guide to see the role of fire in Florida’s ecology. Participants also will see the interesting plants and animals that inhabit pine flatwoods and oak hammock ecosystems. The hike is 0.8 miles round-trip; most appropriate for ages 7 and up. To register, call (407) 876-6696. Young Yogi Class — 1 to 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 20, at Whole Foods Market - Phillips Crossing Lifestyle Center, 8003 Turkey Lake Road, Orlando. Sign up children ages 4 to 12 for the Whole Kids Club to join Yogi Instructor Candace as she teaches the lessons, or “petals,” behind the poses during this free class. The eight petals of yoga encourage self care, generosity of heart and action, kindness toward others and more. Registration requires a signed permission slip from a parent/ legal guardian. For more information, visit wholefoodsmarket.com/ stores/Orlando.
Frosty Florida Crafts — 11 a.m. Monday, Dec. 22, and Tuesday, Dec. 23, at the Winter Garden Library, 805 E. Plant St. Children ages 6 to 12 are invited to celebrate the holiday season with easy projects to give as gifts or keep as their own. For more, call (407) 835-7323. Holiday Camp — 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday, Dec. 22, through Tuesday, Dec. 23, and Monday, Dec. 29, through Wednesday, Dec. 30, at the Jessie Brock Community Center, 310 N. Dillard St., Winter Garden. Winter Garden Parks and Recreation Holiday Camp offers outdoor activities, time with friends and lots of fun during the holiday break for all children entering first through eighth grade. Campers must bring a packed lunch, snacks and a water bottle to camp every day. For residents, the cost is $19 per day; $24 for non residents. For more, call (407) 656-4111.
SATURDAY, DEC. 27 Oceans Alive! — 11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 27, at the Windermere Library, 530 Main St. Join the library for a movie starring a favorite ocean friend. For more, call (407) 835-7323.
TUESDAY, DEC. 30 It Doesn’t Snow in Florida — 3 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 30, at the Southwest Library, 7255 Della Drive, Orlando. Celebrate snow with cool stories and crafts. Ages 6 to 12 are welcome. Registration is required. To register, call (407) 835-7323.
To publicize your event in our Community Calendar, please send by mail: 720 S. Dillard St. Winter Garden, FL 34787; or by email: news@wotimes.com. Photos are welcome. Deadline is noon Thursday.
HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS THURSDAY, DEC. 18 Holiday Movie — showing of the film “Scrooged” takes place at 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 18, at the Garden Theatre, 160 W. Plant St., Winter Garden. Enjoy a modern twist on the classic Charles Dickens tale, “A Christmas Carol.” General admission tickets are $7 per person. Purchase tickets online at gardentheatre.org/ movies/holidaymovies or visit the theater box office at least two hours prior to the show.
FRIDAY, DEC. 19 An Evening of Elegance — 7 to 9 p.m. Friday, Dec. 19, at Higher Ground Anointed Ministries, 6328 W. Colonial Drive, Orlando. Breath of Life Ministries, Higher Ground Anointed Ministries and New Beginnings Ministries come together to celebrate the Born King during “An Evening of Elegance” Christmas Gala, with special guest host and Christian comedian “Mr. Charlie.” Black and red formal attire is requested. Tickets are $20 at the door. For more information, visit eventbrite. com/e/an-evening-of-elegance-christmas-gala-tickets-7845814041. “Christmas By Committee: A Musical” — Friday, Dec. 19, through Sunday, Dec. 21, at the Garden Theatre, 160 W. Plant St., Winter Garden. The show is at 8 p.m. Fridays, 2 and 8 p.m. Saturdays and 2 p.m. Sundays. Tickets are $29 for adults, $25 for students and seniors and $12 for children ages 12 and under on Saturday matinees. To purchase tickets, visit gardentheatre.org/plays. “Holiday Magic” Dance and Show — 7:30 p.m. Friday,
Dec. 19, at Bahia Ballroom, 2300 Pembrook Drive, Orlando. Presented by USA Dance, waltz lessons begin at 7:30 p.m. From 8 to 11 p.m., ballroom dance performances will take place, with styles including swing, country, Latin and the Vietnamese waltz. For more information, call (407) 614-3472.
SATURDAY, DEC. 20 “Away in a Manger” Painting Class — 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, Dec. 20, at The Art Room, 709 Main St., Windermere. Children in kindergarten and up will learn to create an acrylic painting on canvas of the Nativity scene. The cost is $35 per person. Reservations are required. To register, call (407) 909-1869. Habitat for the Holidays — 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 20, at the Oakland Nature Preserve Classroom and Porch, 747 Machete Trail. Join the preserve staff as they create edible decorations for the critters that call ONP home. Helpers can take one home for their critters, as well. This event is free to the public. For more information, call (407) 9050054. “The Little Drummer Boy” — 10:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 20, Monday, Dec. 22, and Tuesday, Dec. 23, at the rear entrance behind the Florida Film Academy, 270 W. Plant St., Winter Garden. The show also takes place at 1 p.m., 2 p.m. and 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 21. Pinocchio’s Marionette Theater tours to present this string puppet classic of the first Christmas in Bethlehem. The cost is $6 per person. For more information, email boxoffice@
pinocchios.net or visit pinocchios.net. Windermere Boat Parade — 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 20, at Bird Island, Lake Butler, Windermere. Participants should meet at Bird Island at 5 p.m. (407) 876-2563.
SUNDAY, DEC. 21 Blue Christmas — 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 21, at First United Methodist Church of Winter Garden, 125 N. Lakeview Ave., Winter Garden. This is a candlelight service for lost loved ones. Call (407) 656-1135. Breakfast with Santa — 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 21, at Westerly’s Restaurant at MetroWest Golf Club, 2100 S. Hiawassee Road, Orlando. Families will enjoy cookie decorating, pictures with Santa, a breakfast buffet and holiday activities. The cost is $8.95 for children and $15.95 for adults. (407) 299-1099. “Christmas by Candlelight” — 10:30 a.m. Sunday, Dec. 21, at Presbyterian Church of the Lakes, 4700 Lincoln Ave., Orlando. Call (407) 2912886. Choir Concert — 7 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 21, at Vineland Road Christian Fellowship, 890 Vineland Road, Winter Garden. Call (407) 656-3949.
Christmas Cantata — 10 a.m. Sunday, Dec. 21, at Windermere Union Church, United Church of Christ, 10710 Park Ridge-Gotha Road, Windermere. During the Sunday service, there will be a special Cantata, titled “Once Upon a Holy Night.” (407) 876-2112. Live Nativity — 6 to 8 p.m. Dec. 21 to 23, at Ocoee Church of God, 1105 N. Lakewood Ave., Ocoee. Call (407) 656-8011. “Noël” Christmas Concert — 7 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 21, at First United Methodist Church of Orlando, 142 E. Jackson St. The concert will feature the Christmas Concert Choir, as well as handbell choirs, children’s choirs and an orchestra. (407) 849-6080.
TUESDAY, DEC. 23 “In His Name…We Dance!” — 4 p.m. and 8 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 23, at the Garden Theatre, 160 W. Plant St., Winter Garden. Enjoy a Winter Garden tradition and celebrate the telling of the Christmas story through dance, performed by the Centre for Dance & the Performing Arts. Tickets are $15 per person, or $12 for students and seniors. To purchase tickets, visit gardentheatre.org/plays.
WEST ORANGE TIMES
WOTimes.com
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2014
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wish list by Zak Kerr | Staff Writer
Winter Garden mother and son need kidney transplants They suffer from Barakat’s Syndrome, a rare genetic disorder causing renal failure. WINTER GARDEN — Andrew Bishop has a lot in common with many other 12-yearolds: He goes to school five days per week, plays the trumpet in his school’s concert band, is a member of the National Junior Honor Society and likes playing video games and sports. But Andrew and his mother, Melissa, 46, of Winter Garden, have a genetic disorder so rare that only one in a million people have it. The disorder is called Barakat’s Syndrome, and it causes hearing and vision impairment, dental problems, hypoparathyroidism and kidney failure. Moreover, Andrew suffered a stroke when he was younger, with brain damage causing severe epilepsy that prevents him from attending Lakeview Middle School full-time. Andrew must take some classes online, based on a processing disorder from his stroke, but Melissa is trying to get him back into French classes as soon as she can, because he
enjoyed them a lot, she said. “I take four classes on Monday, Tuesday and Friday, and two classes on Wednesday and Thursday,” Andrew said. “I like lots of sports, like basketball and swimming, and spending time with my pets — three cats and one dog.” Andrew competed in a Special Olympics three-on-three basketball tournament last weekend, in which his team from Lakeview won once and lost once against a team from Gotha Middle School. Melissa has started a fundraising campaign and a donor search to defend her son’s life — as well as hers. “The goal for us is to each get a kidney transplant,” Melissa said. “We’re trying to control his diet, his potassium and phosphorus levels, so he won’t have to do dialysis.” This has led to strict regulations on Andrew’s diet. The foods he cannot eat include cheese, cantaloupe, bananas, potatoes, whole grains and peanut-butter-and-jelly sandwiches, which were once his
favorite, Melissa said. If Andrew does not get a transplant by age 18, he will need to start dialysis like his mother. But Melissa has gotten them active on a transplant list at a hospital in Tampa, which she called one of the top kidney transplants in the country. “Getting on a transplant list is an endeavor,” Melissa said. “Typically, the doctors and nurses don’t tell you everything up front, because they don’t want to overwhelm anyone.” The hospital in Tampa did not tell the Bishops they would need to return for second and third days of evaluations after their first, including all kinds of labs, blood work, doctors’ reports and an endocrinologist for Melissa, who is diabetic. This has caused financial difficulties for the family beyond their norm, she said. “We had $3,000 saved because we thought the requirement would be $3,000 (based on research the family had done),” Melissa said. “The sec-
ond appointment, they tell us we have to come up with twice that amount. When you’re on dialysis, there’s a supplemental analysis the American Kidney Fund picks up. Medicare only covers 80% of the treatment. You have to have a supplemental policy cover the other 20%.” But after the transplant, the fund no longer pays for the supplemental policy, leaving the Bishops to cover the premium, she said. In addition to the financial concerns, even with transplants, life would remain difficult for the Bishops. Transplanted kidneys usually last 10 to 15 years, after which dialysis begins again. Despite all of this, the Bishops have taken time to count their blessings. “My mom relocated from New Jersey to live here while I was waiting for my transplant,” Melissa said. “She drove down in September when I had an infection. She decided to stay. It’s a huge gift. “My husband’s parents have come to help us while she’s back in New Jersey,” she said. “I could not do everything by myself; I’m so grateful for their support. ... We’re very blessed to have family here. I know
Courtesy photo
Andrew and Melissa Bishop have a rare genetic disorder, leaving both in need of kidney transplants. many families who do not have that.” The family also took a trip to San Francisco just before Thanksgiving, thanks to the Make-a-Wish Foundation, which enabled Andrew to meet Pixar Studios personnel and see how they animated, he said. Plus, Andrew has an interesting hobby. “I am a fire-alarm collector,” he said. “I own about 16 fire alarms. There are lots of fire-alarm brands. I collect fire alarms because I’m very fascinated with them, and I want to make my own fire alarm.” Although Melissa wants to
help get Andrew another fire alarm for Christmas, finances are difficult. She understands most people also have problems and cannot contribute, but every contribution she receives is a big help, she said. “Our expenses are never going to end,” she said. “If we have two people in one family on dialysis, we need to come up with $1,000 a month.” To support the Bishops or find more information, go to m.helphopelive.org/campaign/5992 and Facebook. com/helpmelissaandandrew. Contact Zak Kerr at zkerr@ wotimes.com.
NEWS BRIEFS
OFFICIAL BUSINESS
+ Bread of Life needs volunteers Bread of Life Fellowship is seeking volunteers for its 23rd annual Christmas Food for Families event. Volunteers are needed to sort and pack food boxes with Christmas goodies for families in need. The packing “party” takes place at 7 p.m. Dec. 24, at Ocoee High School, 1925 Ocoee Crown Point Parkway, Ocoee. Volunteer drivers also are needed to deliver food beginning at 8 a.m. Dec. 25, throughout West Orange County. For more information, visit breadoflifefellowship.com or call (407) 654-7777.
+ Boyd elected as MetroPlan vice chair
Courtesy photo
Gov. Rick Scott brought his gubernatorial business to West Orange Dec. 4, when he hosted a staff meeting at Breakfast Club of Ocoee. From left: restaurant owners Shivali Dua and Yuvraj Malhotra, staff members Milissa Zagrodnichek and Michelle Milanowski, Scott, and staff members Jorge Jimenez and Richard Michaud.
Orange County Commissioner S. Scott Boyd will serve as vice chair of the MetroPlan Orlando Board of Directors for 2015. “I am honored to be elected to this leadership position by my fellow board members,” Boyd said. MetroPlan Orlando is the metropolitan planning organization for Orange, Osceola and Seminole counties that works to improve transportation options for Central Florida.
NEW DIGS by Amy Quesinberry Rhode | Community Editor
Artisan opens old-fashioned mercantile Denna LeVan restores and repurposes old, forgotten furniture. Her new business, West Side Mercantile & Brocante, offers a variety of antiques, gifts and more. OCOEE — Folks in search of vintage goods, industrial antiques, hand-painted furniture and unique gifts could find what they’re looking for in a new shop in downtown Ocoee. Denna LeVan has opened West Side Mercantile & Brocante at 112 W. McKey St. It’s a third location for her business; she also operates booths, which she calls High Falootin’ Junk, at the Adjectives Market in Altamonte Springs and the Winter Park Village. Offering both vintage and new merchandise, LeVan provides a place for a half-dozen of her artist friends to sell their wares. One builds farmhouse tables and other woodwork
WEST SIDE MERCANTILE ADDRESS: 112 W. McKey St., Ocoee HOURS: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays; 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays. It is open by appointment on the other days. WEBSITE: westsidemer cantile.com PHONE: (352) 449-8140 pieces. Another creates gemstone jewelry. And still others make pillows, candles, crocheted and knitted items and one-of-a-kind décor using re-
cycled bottle caps and corks. About two months ago, LeVan rented space downtown for her workshop. A month later, she opened the retail portion of the business. She started her career in trade shows and stage work, and this is where the decorative art comes from, she said. She went from creating stage sets to painting furniture and then branched out into kitchen cabinet refinishing. She opened a store in Mount Dora in 2010, where she was a distributor of Annie Sloan Chalk Paint. “That’s what got me known in the furniture business, in the DIY furniture world,” LeVan said. “That brand helped
me get established.” She set up a small studio in Ocoee, where she painted and repurposed furniture and took pieces to her Adjectives stores to be sold. When she outgrew that studio, she asked her landlord about a bigger space, and this is when she moved to McKey Street. She wasn’t sure how she was going to maintain a shop and still have time to work on furniture. “It’s kind of hard to take care of people with paint on your hands,” she said. So she decided to open the store three days a week and devote the other four to setting up her Adjectives booth, working
Amy Quesinberry Rhode
Denna LeVan sells vintage home décor at her West Side Mercantile, and for this month she has some Christmas items on the shelves. in her studio and making trips to the Webster Flea Market. She also finds pieces at estate sales. She might give it a coat of paint or take out the drawers and use them for something else. LeVan already is thinking ahead to next year, when the Plant Street Market in Winter
Garden will open in the spring. “The energy that’s going to come from that and the entrepreneurs and artisans — that’s the kind of atmosphere that I’d love to be a part of,” LeVan said. Contact Amy Quesinberry Rhode at aqrhode@wotimes. com.
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WEST ORANGE TIMES
WOTimes.com
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2014
ROME, ITALY. Sarah Zhou took the West Orange Times & Observer with her on a recent trip to St. Peter’s Square and Basilica in the Vatican City.
ATHENS, GREECE. Brynna and Nancy Connors, of Windermere, traveled to Greece this summer. They are pictured here at the Acropolis in front of the Parthenon in Athens. Their travels also took them to Santorini and Crete.
BLUE RIDGE MOUNTAINS, NORTH CAROLINA. Russell and Kathy Crouch, Bev and Mike Craft and Terry and Johnny Couch caught up on all their West Orange news while vacationing high in the mountains close to Sylva, North Carolina.
Take us with you! As you head into the holiday season, don’t forget to pack your copy of the West Orange Times and West Orange Times & Observer! We still are accepting submissions for our Travelin’ Times photo contest. Send us a photo of you with our newspaper at a destination of your choice for a chance to win a variety of prizes. Don’t worry: All submissions received in 2014 are automatically entered into the contest! Two winners will receive a $250 gift card; the contest is open through Dec. 31, 2014. Entering is easy! Just snap a photo of you with the paper at your designation of choice and email it to Community Editor Amy Quesinberry Rhode, aqrhode@ wotimes.com. Emailed photos should be at least 200 dpi. Include the names of everyone in the photo, where it was taken and a phone number at which we can reach you. You also can mail or drop off the photo to: West Orange Times, 720 S. Dillard St., Winter Garden 34787. Call the newspaper office at (407) 6562121 with questions.
ESTES PARK, COLORADO. Jerry and Rae Vollenweider, of Winter Garden, took their copy of the West Orange Times on an October trip to the site of their future mountain cabin in Estes Park, Colorado, home of the Rocky Mountain National Park. They were accompanied by their son, Heath, his girlfriend, Miranda Wiley, daughters, Heidi, Arielle and Hayley, and Hayley’s fiance, Jasaw Klin.
GREENVILLE, SOUTH CAROLINA. LeeAnn and John Claflin went to South Carolina to visit LeeAnn’s brother and his family. The Claflins brought their favorite hometown newspaper with them to downtown Greenville.
West Orange Times The West Orange Times (USPS 687-120) is published weekly for $21.50 per year ($35 outside of Orange County) by the Observer Media Group, 720 S. Dillard St., Winter Garden, Florida 34787. Periodical postage paid at Winter Garden, Florida. POSTMASTER send address changes to the West Orange Times, 720 S. Dillard St., Winter Garden, Florida 34787. Opinions in the West Orange Times are those of the individual writer and are not necessarily those of the West Orange Times, its publisher or editors. Mailed letters must by typed and include the author’s signature and phone number. Letters to the editor are subject to editing for space and grammar and become the property of the newspaper. © Copyright 2014 Observer Media Group All Rights Reserved
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HELEN, GEORGIA. Larry Berry found the news more inviting than the views at Unicoi State Park in Helen, Georgia.
DENVER, COLORADO. Margaret Reper and Pat Gleason attended the 2014 convention of the TransAtlantic Brides and Parents Association (a British heritage society) in Denver in August, and they took a copy of the West Orange Times. During their visit, they enjoyed a thrilling ride to the summit of Loveland Pass, Continental Divide, located in the Rocky Mountains of north central Colorado.
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CONTACT US The West Orange Times is published once weekly, on Thursdays. It provides subscription home delivery. The West Orange Times also can be found in many commercial locations throughout West Orange County and at our office, 720 S. Dillard St., Winter Garden. If you wish to subscribe to the West Orange Times, visit our website, WOTimes.com, call (407) 656-2121 or visit our office, 720 S. Dillard St., Winter Garden.
Publisher / Dawn Willis, dwillis@wotimes.com Executive Editor / Michael Eng, meng@wotimes.com Community Editor / Amy Quesinberry Rhode, aqrhode@wotimes.com Design Editor / Jessica Eng, jeng@yourobserver.com Sports Editor / Steven Ryzewski, sryzewski@wotimes.com Staff Writer / Zak Kerr, zkerr@wotimes.com Advertising Executive / Cyndi Gustafson, cgustafson@wotimes.com Creative Services / Laine Richardson, lrichardson@wotimes.com Office Manager / Sales / Rose Blankenship, rblankenship@wotimes.com Customer Service Representative / Sarah Felt, sfelt@wotimes.com
“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
WEST ORANGE TIMES
WOTimes.com
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2014
15 minutes by Zak Kerr | Staff Writer
Ocoee cafe featured on ‘Today’
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LITERALLY SPEAKING by Kathy Aber
House Blend Cafe gives all net profits to charity.
OCOEE — For its Nov. 25 “Small Business Saturday” segment encouraging American consumers to support small, local businesses with their shopping on the day after Black Friday, the “Today Show” featured House Blend Cafe of Ocoee. Not only is House Blend Cafe a “mom-and-pop shop,” but also, its owners, Josh and Kelly Taylor, have a mission of giving 100% of the cafe’s net profits to charity. “We try not to get involved in things where it’s just about money,” Josh said. “We’re also trying to raise money to provide for our community and get out and serve together. We try to raise awareness in things we do. That’s our goal: to get involved in things where we’re encouraging others to get out and serve, shift the focus from life being all about me to putting others above self. That’s our T-shirt and our design that puts others above self.” That mission of investing all profits back into the community set House Blend Cafe apart from other businesses the show’s producers might have featured for the segment. “With it being ‘Small Business Saturday’ and the holidays, they wanted to feature a business that was giving back, and there’s a lady who does freelance work for them who lives here in town,” Josh said. “She got word from the producers that that’s the story they wanted to run; she thought of us.” Her interest came as a surprise to Josh when he answered her call. “When she initially called, she called right in the middle of lunch, so we were hopping with lunch business,” he said. “She said, ‘This is Lisa from the “Today Show,’’ and I was like, ‘‘What? Nah! What do you mean by “Today Show?” The “Today Show?’’’
Courtesy photo
Kelly and Josh Taylor were on the “Today Show” for giving 100% of House Blend Cafe’s profits to charity.
SEE THE SEGMENT To see the video of House Blend Cafe on the “Today Show,” as well as get more information on the cafe, visit houseblendcafe.com. And she said, ‘Yeah.’” The next morning, a crew from the show met with the Taylors and filmed them in various environments, from the bustle of their cafe to feeding the poor and a hydroponics garden. “We’re in the process of building an aquaponics pond to go feed the people,” Josh said. “The goal there is to create sustainable food systems that we’d like to take to other countries where they’re used to a model of growing rice and beans over and over again, and to create a system that people can maintain.” The whole filming process with the show was rapid and happened in the course of a day, he said. “From the time they first contacted us to the time we were done shooting was about 24 hours — it was all bang, bang, bang,” Josh said. “And it ran a few days later. It was very out of the blue, and I’d say we give God the glory.” The philosophy of the House Blend Cafe is to make a difference by changing lives and changing the world, Josh said. “Sounds big, but we’re in
the process of partnering with Axum Coffee, which is in downtown Winter Garden,” he said. “The full goal is to be able to make as much money as we can to give away. Our goal is that by 2018 we’re giving away $1 million a year to social-justice causes formally and then for that number to continue to grow. We wanted to get involved in something that is relational and build relationships with people in the community, so that through those relationships we could raise awareness of various causes internationally. “More importantly, some of the things we’re passionate about here: east Winter Garden is a big deal, just east of Ninth Street,” Josh said. “It’s kind of a rough area of town — high crime, drugs, that sort of thing going on. So we can get people out in the community and encourage kids and families to make a difference right there, in their backyards.” Two of the primary issues the cafe staff passionately focuses on are clean water and human trafficking. “There is more slavery today than there has ever been in history,” Josh said. “Cur-
rent statistics still show that close to 20,000 children die every single day because they don’t have access to things we take for granted: clean water, very basic medications and things like that. Kids are drinking water out of puddles that animals have gone to the bathroom in, so they get sick and die because they can’t go to the hospital or anything. Those are two things we’re passionate about and think we can have a big impact in.” How big of an impact? After starting with projects such as providing clean water for about 400 Ethiopian orphans in February 2013, the cafe has a long-term vision of giving away almost $1 billion per year, perhaps 40 years from now, Josh said. “With that kind of backing, we could go into any country and make change, regardless of what government is in charge,” he said. “A lot of the injustices you see around the world are because of general oppression.” Josh also said he would look to involve the cafe in anything caring for orphans, widows, the hungry and the oppressed. For anyone hungry in the area, whether they are capable of affording food, the House Blend Cafe will be there to serve it. Contact Zak Kerr at zkerr@ wotimes.com.
Photo by Amy Quesinberry Rhode
All book donations will be delivered in time for the Christmas holidays.
Reading Reindeer wraps up final week Wrapping up Reading Reindeer deliveries is like to working a jigsaw puzzle. Fitting the pieces together is a ticklish task. Every year since 1998, the West Orange Times has launched Reading Reindeer in early October — outlining the work and projecting the number of books needed to fill requests for books from local organizations, like Toys for Tots. Slowly the books are donated, gathered and counted. Cash donations are used to purchase additional books. Reading Reindeer helpers pick up books from the dropoff locations to label and sort them. Then the books are organized for distribution to the various agencies on Reading Reindeer’s list. This week, the puzzle pieces are fitting into place, but the finished picture is still a bit blurry. There still are some books to label and a few phone calls to make to confirm deliveries. All of the books will be given out by early next week in time for Christmas.
If you haven’t dropped off your donation yet, please bring your new books for children up to age 15 to the Times office, 720 S. Dillard St., Winter Garden, Florida 34787 during office hours: 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Our readers make this literacy effort possible and have been faithful in making it a success for 17 years. The Times will publish a wrap-up article along with a thank-you to donors after the holidays. We are grateful for your continued support to bring the gift of reading to our youngest citizens.
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WEST ORANGE TIMES
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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2014
NIEVES / PAGE 1A
IN OTHER NEWS
by family. In the three-and-one-half weeks he was in the hospital, Richie Nieves had eight surgeries to clear and drain the infection from his leg, and although he was ultimately healthy enough to return to Florida to finish his healing, doctors said the only way he could go home was if he took a medical flight with a nurse on board. Insurance wouldn’t pay the flight expense but did approve coverage for a two- to threemonth stay at a long-term acute-care facility in California. “This is not an option for this loving father and family man,” said Amber Kozawick, a close friend who posted updates last week on a Go Fund Me fundraising site. “The best environment for him to be in for healing of his soul and body is now home, with his wife and children.” Family members withdrew money from their retirement fund to pay for the flight, which cost $17,000, and the Nieveses are home now; but Richie and Tammy are trying to raise funds to repay the money and to help pay medical bills that are expected to reach $20,000. Richie Nieves’ condition currently is stable. He had a wound vac placed on his leg last week, and it will be there for about eight weeks. He is getting nursing care and wound care at home. He has to go weekly to a wound clinic for a doctor to check on the healing process. Last week, there were four open wounds on his left leg. He cannot return to work for at least seven weeks. He is an implementation consultant for a software company based out of Santa Monica. Nieves’ young children are glad to finally have their father home. “Kai is still a little too young to realize what is going on, so it’s hard to tell with him,” Tammy Nieves said. “It really affected Ambriah pretty hard. She prayed every night for Daddy to get better and for us to be a family again.” Contact Amy Quesinberry Rhode at aqrhode@wotimes. com.
• The council unanimously approved a resolution for tree mitigation fees to benefit a tree trust fund at a caliber/inch rate, along with an updated tree ordinance, with standards that will apply to Windsong. • The council passed a resolution to separate a fire rescue services tax from its general millage, as well as a $2,720 emergency repair of sidewalks in The Willows and a purchase of benches and picnic tables from the Parks and Recreation budget not exceeding $10,000. • The council passed a speed-limit reduction for The Willows, from 25 mph to 20 mph. Pirozzolo dissented, preferring to conduct a vote with the community’s entire homeowners association. • The council granted Craig and Kathy Lopus a license to sell alcohol on premises less than 1,000 feet from a church, school or other business with consumption on said premises. Conditions of the license included closure of the Lopuses’ business by 11 p.m., with the exception of Sunday through Tuesday, which would have the closing time of 9:30 p.m.
WINDERMERE / PAGE 1A So it’s going to be these guys or, when they walk, it’s going to be residential, lower-end, which is going to negatively impact everybody around it. We’re at the point now that makes the least amount of financial sense for them. I’ll choke down the setbacks. I’ll choke down the size of the lots. I have no fears about the stormwater, because there’s so much oversight there. The one thing I’m continually uncomfortable with is that there’s not a left-turn lane into the neighborhood (from northbound on Maguire Road). Without a turn lane there, traffic is going to back up to the bridge.” Pirozzolo disagreed with Mohammed Abdallah, the developers’ traffic consultant
from Traffic & Mobility Consultants, who said northbound traffic would not warrant such a turn lane, with a rate of 10 cars per hour turning left into the development. Councilman John Armstrong, who cast the dissenting vote, disagreed with Pirozzolo’s assessment of the situation. “I don’t believe that losing this quality developer means that there’s not going to be another one down the road,” Armstrong said. “The residents love the wildlife there, and it’s not like we’re hurting for tax revenue. What’s the drawback here? You’re worried that we’re going to have some bad developer come along if we don’t grab these guys now?” Residents submitted 39 responses to city staff regarding the latest plans, 37 of which included concerns or disapproval. Those at the meeting believed they had gone past the point of compromise into appeasement of the developers, with many presenting the same concerns. “Our neighborhood’s concerns (include) traffic on Maguire Road, deceleration lanes, turn lanes … density, drainage, flood control, stormwater, environmental and trees and the schools,” said Edward Beery, of the Board of Directors of the Reserve at Belmere plan on the northern border of the Windsong plot. “We’re happy that you’ve taken out commercial area, because that was a very huge concern for us with a possible look down into our backyards on the other side of the border wall.” Roger Ambuter, an engineer living in The Willows, had concerns with what he believed were inaccuracies with dates and numbers pertinent to the 18 months of the developers’ work with the town, as well as not conforming to the ordinances of the town. “At this stage of the game, you (developers) should’ve had everything letter-perfect, and it isn’t,” Ambuter said. Theresa Schretzmann-Myers, chairwoman of the Windermere Tree Board, expressed reservations about how the developers would handle plants within the plot. “We just walked the site last week with the tree survey,
Police Chief Dave Ogden swore in new officers Eli Rodriquez and Nicole Torres. for the first time,” she said. “I would like to see an updated tree canopy survey that includes all of the tree canopy and know, for sure, what is going and what is staying. Almost every (tree) we saw on that property was eight inches or above, and some were historic, huge, beautiful palms. I applaud keeping any of the trees in the setbacks. My recommendation is to move and reprune palms that cannot stay. I hear (clearing most trees) is not what’s going to happen. I just want to make sure it is in writing.” Schretzmann-Myers said residents were ardent about the unique ecology of the town in all neighborhoods. “We’re passionate about our town because it is Windermere, and it is different from other towns with its gorgeous native tree canopy that keeps neighborhoods cool, protects our buffers of lakes and aids stormwater management,” she said. “We are lucky to be able to walk into our backyards and see birds that come here every year and not anywhere else, because of our tree canopy.” Allan Keen, project manager, and David Evans, lead designer and president of Evans Engineering, said they would replant and save as many trees as possible, because it made sense to have trees as fixtures
for potential homeowners. Keen also said swales and pretreatment for contaminants within a controlled stormwater management system would prevent flooding. Although the plan remained unchanged in terms of average and minimum sizes for lots and setbacks that both residents and council members had problems with, Keen cited what he believed would be many benefits to Windermere adopting Windsong’s plan. “Sanitary sewer lines will be extended to the town boundary,” Keen said. “In keeping with the town’s character, we will do everything to have this not look like a subdivision. We have a considerable amount of buffering between the ponds and natural vegetation between Maguire and the lots. All lots abutting The Willows will be restricted to single-story homes. This guarantees the town that development on its largest remaining parcel will be done in a proper way. All of our roads, utilities and stormwater system are being maintained by the community owners association, at no cost to the town.” Keen also said Taylor Morrison Homes would build great homes on the plot and that the town would gain $132,636 in taxes per year. He also mentioned up to $250,000 that the company would pay to the
Zak Kerr
town, mostly for traffic improvements, which Pirozzolo thanked him for but called “a drop in the bucket,” relative to traffic problems the development would create. Regardless of these possible benefits, some of which Armstrong did not believe were benefits, Armstrong stressed that there were simply too many problems Windermere residents had with the plan to support its advance. “I don’t represent anybody but the residents,” Armstrong said. “Most people here tonight are from The Willows. I have talked to numerous — and I mean numerous — residents from all around town, and they feel the same way as you all. Personally, it benefits me to have as small of lot sizes as we possibly can. But I’m going to vote with the residents, because the residents told me what they want. I talked them and asked, ‘Would you be OK with half-acre (lots)?’ Almost every one of them said yes. But they said a half-acre was where to draw the line, and that is a compromise.” The council started with a motion to table Windsong for Councilwoman Molly Rose, who was absent and had expressed concerns with Windsong. The motion failed, 3-1, with Armstrong dissenting. Contact Zak Kerr at zkerr@ wotimes.com.
WEST ORANGE TIMES
WOTimes.com
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2014
COPS OAKLAND DEC. 7
BOOZE CRUISER
West Colonial Drive and Tubb Street. Drunken Driving. At 4:02 a.m., Oakland and Winter Garden police stopped a truck speeding in excess of 75 mph, westbound on West Colonial Drive. While an Oakland officer approached the stopped vehicle, the driver began to drive away. The officer instructed the driver to stop in the right lane at the junction with the turnpike. The driver admitted high intoxication, resulting from four drinks at a nightclub on West Colonial, and the passenger was heavily intoxicated, too. The driver did not have a license, because he was an immigrant from Mexico, but he had been living in the U.S. for 26 years. The truck belongs to the driver’s wife, who received a ride to procure her vehicle and take the passenger home. The driver received a citation for possession of an open alcohol container in a motor vehicle.
TAG TROUBLE
Cross Street and Henschen Avenue. Driving Without a License. An officer stopped a truck northbound on Cross Street at 8:06 a.m., because it had a trailer with no tag attached. The driver offered his Mexican ID and had no valid ID or driver’s license. The officer arrested the driver on charges of driving without a license and issued a warning for no tag on the trailer. The vehicle was given to its registered owner.
DEC. 12
UNRULY ARREST
400 block of West Oakland Avenue. Trespassing. A complainant informed police that a man was trespassing on his property, intoxicated and refusing to leave. An officer arrived at the residence around 6 a.m. The officer found the suspect and recognized him from a previous trespass at the property on July 4. The suspect smelled
WEST ORANGE
CORNER
CALL STATS OCOEE FIRE The Ocoee Fire Department (stations 25, 26, 38 and 39) reported 114 calls for assistance from Dec. 4 to 10: Fires: 0 EMS: 73 Vehicle accidents: 9 Hazardous materials/conditions: 3 Public service: 26 False alarms: 3
OCOEE POLICE The Ocoee Police Department reported 777 calls for service from Dec. 4 to 10: Arrests (adult): 21 Arrests (juvenile): 2 Assault and battery: 9 Burglary (residential and business): 4 Burglary (vehicle): 8 Child abuse: 1 Criminal mischief: 1 Drug violations: 2 DUI: 1 Homicide: 0 Robbery: 1 Sexual battery: 2 Thefts: 18 Vehicle accidents: 19 Vehicle thefts: 1 Missing/endangered adult: 1 Missing/runaway juvenile: 0
WINDERMERE POLICE The Windermere Police like alcohol, had slurred speech, stumbled, behaved irrationally and belligerently, yelled vulgar and incoherent fragments and responded to the officer’s commands only after being told twice, according to the report. The officer arrested the suspect on trespassing charges but needed the aid of another officer to get him into the patrol car. The suspect profanely ranted and yelled while violently shuffling in the back of the car. The suspect continued yelling while officers tried to remove
Department reported 83 calls for assistance from Dec.8 to 14.
WINTER GARDEN FIRE The Winter Garden Fire Department (stations 22, 23 and 24) reported 84 calls for assistance from Nov. 30 to Dec. 6: Fires: 2 EMS: 66 Vehicle accidents: 5 Automatic fire alarms: 4 Public assistance: 1 Hazardous conditions: 2 Calls for service: 4
The Season for
GIVING
WINTER GARDEN POLICE The Winter Garden Police Department reported 572 calls for service from Nov. 27 to Dec. 3: Arrests (adult): 20 Arrests (juvenile): 1 Assault/battery: 4 Burglary (residential and business): 1 Burglary (vehicle): 5 Child abuse: 1 Criminal mischief: 1 Drug violations: 4 DUI: 1 Robbery: 0 Sexual assault/battery: 0 Thefts: 9 Vehicle accidents: 24 Vehicle thefts: 1 Missing/runaway adult: 1 Missing/runaway juvenile: 1
him from the car for booking and slipped his handcuffs under his legs, causing cuts on his wrists.
OCOEE DEC. 8
STICKER SHOCK
1500 block of East Silver Star Road. Theft. An officer met a complainant at 11:45 a.m. at his residence. The complainant said someone had removed the tag and decal from his van while parked in a fitness center lot.
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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2014
COMMISSION / PAGE 1A
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“This community can’t wait for studies,” Buchanan said. “We need to do something now.” Bollhoefer said he expected the upgrade and replacement cost to be $500,000, pending a more thorough study. He proposed Winter Garden pay one-third of the cost and Brandy Creek pay two-thirds of the cost, a formula the city has offered developments in similar situations in the past. In this case, Brandy Creek and the city each will pay one-third up front. Winter Garden will pay the remaining third, and Brandy Creek will pay back that cost over 20 years via a special assessment. The situation developed so rapidly that Bollhoefer didn’t have any paperwork for commissioners to study. Rather than the normal procedure, which would involve a special assessment, the commission voted 4-1 to allow the staff to proceed quickly because they deemed it to be an emergency situation. Commissioner Bobby Olszewski dissented and said he understood the vote didn’t involve a special assessment but that the final proposal would. “I can’t vote for a tax increase; I’m philosophically opposed to a special assessment,” he said. Bollhoefer said the city also will look at other developments that have stormwater systems similar to Brandy Creek to see whether they need replacing.
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The commission unanimously passed the first reading of an ordinance to annex about 23.64 acres on all four sides of the intersection of Marsh and Williams roads, and to rezone the land to city urban village planned unit development. This designation allows single- and multi-family residential units along with retail stores such as pharmacies and dry cleaners, and professional offices. The developer will pay the cost of upgrading the intersection, adding turn lanes, and widening the roads where appropriate. City staff and the Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval of
IN OTHER NEWS • Commissioners unanimously passed the first reading of an ordinance to clarify some language in the ordinance covering removal of illegally parked cars in the city. The changes removed “public garages” as a destination for towed cars and deleted a one-line requirement that cars parked in no parking zones must constitute a “safety hazard” before towing is allowed. • Commissioners unanimously approved entering into an indemnity agreement regarding lots in Hickory Hammock subdivision on John’s Lake. Community Director Williams said this provided additional protection for the city, because some of the original deeds for this property from the 1800s could not be found. • Commissioners unanimously approved the final plat for Oakland Park subdivision Phase 2A. • The commission authorized purchasing a new solid waste front-end-loading truck for $236,835.50 and a new side-loading refuse truck for $235,115. • Commissioners unanimously approved expediting a contract with Real Estate Research Consultants to study road connections and interchanges in the Winter Garden/ Ocoee area. Ocoee received a $100,000 grant from the state to conduct this research. To receive the money, the work the development and rezoning plan. Community Development Director Ed Williams said recent improvements to Marsh Road, which included adding roundabouts, resulted in the number of cars using the road decreasing from 18,000 to fewer than 10,000 today. Director Williams said the biggest objection to the rezoning was a fear that the developer could build apartment buildings on the property. However, the current agreement prohibits apartments. Williams also reported that many people opposed a gas station on the property. The agreement al-
must be completed by June 2015. Unless the contract is expedited, the work won’t be completed on time. The purpose of the grant is to study the current interchanges and roads to provide a basis for developing a master growth plan. • The commission unanimously approved renewing the annual agreement with Quality Vault for opening and closing cemetery services for another year at no price increase. • Olszewski requested an update on the construction on Ninth Street. Bollhoefer said they put heavier barricades around the construction, because some truckers had removed the old barricades and continued to drive through the neighborhood. He said they might use police overtime to enforce traffic rules there. “It’s not an easy situation,” Bollhoefer said, “But we’re working to resolve it.” Bollhoefer also said they would review the use of golf carts in downtown. The number of golf carts driving around downtown is growing, and the drivers don’t always obey traffic laws. “We’ve noticed this and may move forward with some enforcement,” Bollhoefer said. • The next commission meeting is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Jan. 8, 2015, in City Hall Commission Chambers, 300 W. Plant St., Winter Garden. lows for a gas station to be built on the northeast or northwest corner, under a special exemption. He said any station would of necessity be small — much smaller than a Wawa, for example. Under a special exemption, any gas station on the property requires a new proposal, review by city staff and the Planning and Zoning Commission, and approval from the City Commission. Olszewski pointed out that process would allow citizens to continue to oppose a gas station in the future. The second reading is scheduled for Jan. 8, 2015.
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Christmas traditions change over time I love the Christmas holiday, but as my kids get older, I’m finding it’s just not the same. We have had our share of holiday traditions — some serious, some silly — and they are all wonderful memories for me and, I hope, my teen-age son and daughter. There are some they haven’t outgrown, thankfully. When each of AMY the kids QUESINBERRY was born, RHODE I bought one of those commemorative baby’s-first-Christmas ornaments from Hallmark. As they got older, I let them pick their own Hallmark keepsake, so my tree is loaded with Barbies (probably six years’ worth) and Disney characters such as Thumper and Nemo, Woody and Mr. Incredible. There is also a pickle ornament that graces my Christmas tree, and the kids have always taken turns hanging it on the branches. Except for four years ago, when it was Adam’s turn and Allison hung it first. So, I wrote down “the incident” and noted that for the next two years, Adam got to hang the pickle. That written record stays with the coveted pickle when it’s packed after the holidays. For many years, friends and family anticipated my Christmas card because I set up an elaborate scene with the kids. Allison was 3 when I dressed her in a long, red-and-green plaid nightgown and asked her to peer into the fireplace looking for Santa. The next year, when Adam was a few months old, I put them in Christmas pajamas, sat them by the Christmas tree and had her look sweetly at her baby brother cradled in her arms. Another “awwwww!” moment. Adam was 15 months the following year — and not very cooperative. I put blinking Rudolph noses and reindeer antlers on them and instructed Allison to make sure Adam kept his nose on — at all costs. The result was a “perfect” photo of her with a serious look on her
TIMES / PAGE 15A
Amy Quesinberry Rhode
We were wishing for snow on this warm Florida day.
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2014
ON DISPLAY by Amy Quesinberry Rhode | Community Editor The 1951 All American Soap Box Derby in Akron, Ohio, featured celebrity guests, and Dave Starr was quick to be photographed with them. Below, he is with Ronald Reagan. King’s Row (1949) is considered the apogee of a movie career based mainly in B-movies, but Reagan would achieve lasting renown as governor of California (1967-75) and president of the United States (1981-89). Both Starr and Reagan were extremely popular in their respective fields, their personal charisma rendering them impossible to ignore, regardless of their politics.
In this 1926 photo, Deputy Sheriff Dave Starr, fifth from left, stands with Sheriff Frank Karel, far left, in a group posing with a pile of confiscated equipment used in making illegal moonshine. A nationwide prohibition against alcohol consumption began Jan. 1, 1920, and was heavily enforced in the South. The lawmen are standing alongside what is most likely the old Orange County jail in downtown Orlando. Ingredients such as corn mash and sugar were mixed with water and boiled in the large container behind Starr. The steam distillate from the concoction rose and trickled up into a condenser and then down a pipe that led to a bucket or metal drum. The resultant “white lightning” was poured into bottles or cans and sold. To avoid detection, the outlawed process usually took place at night, deep within wooded areas.
STARR OF THE SHOW WINTER GARDEN — Dave Starr, Orange County’s longest-serving sheriff, witnessed two decades of phenomenal growth in Central Florida. His years of service, six consecutive terms beginning in 1949 and ending with his 1971 retirement, saw the transformation of Orange County from a small citrus farming community to a world-class destination. The Winter Garden Heritage Foundation is honoring Starr with “Dave Starr: Orange County Colorful Sheriff: A Photographic Exhibit.” The exhibit is open through Feb. 13, 2015, at Winter Garden City Hall, 300 W. Plant St. Born in 1898 in Savannah, Georgia, Starr’s career as a lawman began as After Starr’s boss, a deputy under Sheriff Frank Karel, Orange Counlost his 1932 ty Sheriff Frank re-election bid, Dave Karel. From changed careers, 1926 to 1932, working for beer he learned the distributors Wagner tools of the and Orange State. trade. After a few He was also a parts salesman for Orlando’s years working in sales and a stint Roquemore Motor Supply. After a stint in in the Coast Guard during the U.S. Coast Guard World War II, during World War II, Starr entered Starr continued with his name as a Roquemore until his candidate and election as sheriff in won the Orange 1948. In that race, County sherone of his opponents iff election in happened to be Frank 1948. He served Karel Jr., the son of six consecutive his former boss. four-year terms. As an elected official, Starr was keenly interested in retaining and growing his popularity. With a photographer always close at hand, he managed to turn routine fieldwork and social events into indelible photo opportunities. Whatever the occasion, he was present. He also met people and formed friendships through the many clubs and civic organizations he belonged to. An
IF YOU GO
Early on, Starr realized the power of personal promotion. His supporters supplied newspaper ads and blanketed the county with eye-catching posters in shop windows, alongside roads and even on vehicles like this one.
“DAVE STARR: ORANGE COUNTY COLORFUL SHERIFF — A PHOTOGRAPHIC EXHIBIT” WHEN: Through Feb. 13, 2015 WHERE: Winter Garden City Hall, 300 W. Plant St. DETAILS: Photos and information about the life of Oakland resident Sheriff Starr. Curated by Jim Crescitelli, WGHF program director accomplished horseman, he was always available for a parade, astride Pepper, his favorite palomino. The collection of photographs preserved and maintained by the Winter Garden Heritage Foundation includes many images of Starr with the celebrities he met in the course of his career, such as James Arness, Vaughn Monroe, Ronald Reagan and TV attorney Raymond Burr. Under Starr’s leadership, his department kept up with the latest crime-prevention innovations. It was the first in the state to use radar equipment to determine traffic speed; to implement a mobile crime unit and laboratory; and to organize a sheriff’s mounted posse. His department was the first in Central Florida to organize and train a squad of scuba divers in connection with a water safety program. And it was the first Central Florida department to use breath analyzers in intoxication cases and to use Keeler “lie detectors.” He also improved the conditions under which mentally ill patients were treated, having them sent to psychiatric hospitals instead of letting them languish in jails.
OAKLAND CONNECTION
Starr married the former Ann Doris Smith, of Oakland, in 1935, and the couple lived in Orlando until 1966, when they
SEE STARR / PAGE 15A
Typical of Dave Starr’s community activities was the 1951 go-kart race against Orange County Commissioner John T. “Greasy Jack” Murdoch. J.B. Jones won the contest and went on to compete that year in the All American Soap Box Derby in Akron, Ohio, accompanied by a sizable contingent of Orange County citizens that included Dave and Doris Starr.
The Starrs, posing in the yard of their new Oakland home circa 1966, often worked together to meet the demands of Dave’s social and civic duties. Doris augmented her husband’s reputation by serving as a member of many local women’s clubs and organizations. A May 1958 “Man of the Week” profile in the Orlando Sentinel’s Florida Magazine stated: “He’s the best politician Orange County has ever seen,” is the opinion frequently heard from people on the street and courthouse observers. “No, I don’t think so,” say others. “I think his wife, Doris, outshines him.”
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WEST ORANGE TIMES
WOTimes.com
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2014
CLUBHUBBUB WEST ORANGE
+ Veterans of Foreign War Community Band The Veterans of Foreign War Post 2093 Community Band is currently seeking new members. Performing for more than 25 years, the group is the only VFW community band in Florida. It is a supporting entity of VFK Post 2093 and performs 12 to 15 concerts annually for special occasions, such as the Memorial Day Ceremony, Veterans Day Parade and Independence Day celebration. The band holds practice weekly, and new members are invited to join to make music and socialize, especially percussionists. All rehearsals are from 7 to 9 p.m. at 4444 Edgewater Drive, Orlando. Audiences are welcome. For more information, visit band.alrint.com or call Wilbur “Smitty” Smith at (407) 6717447.
+ American Mensa American Mensa will be offering intelligence-testing sessions
in Orlando. This non-profit organization is open to those who score at the 98th percentile or higher on a standardized test. The group meets at least once a month, often for dinner at 6 p.m. the first Friday of each month at Jason’s Deli, 2915 E. Colonial Drive, Orlando. Members also often gather for get-togethers featuring a speaker or freewheeling discussions. There are also widely attended annual conventions offering workshops, seminars and parties. Numerous regional gatherings are held each year, as well, offering social and intellectual excitement. American Mensa welcomes new members to attend Mensa meetings or simply relish the intellectual stimulation that membership promotes. For more information about testing and upcoming events, call Nora Foust at (386) 7894650.
+ W.O. Chamber of Commerce The Danniel J. Petro/West Orange Chamber of Commerce
West Orange Chamber of Commerce members Rob Maphis, left, David Billsborough, Lynetta Tipton Steed, Jeff Milhausen, Debbie Clements and Keith Bradford gathered for the passing of the gavel ceremony and introduction of the new executive committee and board members for 2015.
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Scholarship application process has begun. To qualify, recipients must be a dependent of a chamber-member business owner or an employee of a chamber-member business. Applicants also must reside in one of the group’s service area communities — Dr. Phillips, Gotha, Horizon West, Lake Avalon, MetroWest, Oakland, Ocoee, Orlo Vista, Pine Hills, Windermere and Winter Garden. All candidates must attend a chamber-member high school and be in his or her senior year. To be considered, students should be looking to further their education at Valencia College (all campuses accepted), Westside Tech or the University of Central Florida. Student recipients will be awarded $1,000 scholarships. The number of recipients will depend on the amount of money available in the scholarship fund at the time of the award. Any unspent money will be allocated to the following year. In addition, two student recipients will be awarded scholarship awards of $2,500 from the Petro Family Foundation. All interested students must complete the online application and return it to the West Orange Chamber of Commerce, 12184 W. Colonial Drive, Winter Garden, FL 34787, Attn: Kelly Carney. Applications can also be sent via email to KCarney@ wochamber.com. The application and all supporting materials must be received no later than Friday, March 20, 2015. To download the application, visit wochamber.com and click “About West Orange County; Committees; Education; Scholarship.” For more information, call (407) 656-1304, Ext. 5.
+ Rotary Club of Lake Buena Vista The Rotary Club of Lake Buena Vista and International Drive held its annual Charity Golf Tournament at the Orange County National Golf Center earlier this month. The club raised more than $7,000 for both domestic and international Rotary projects. The winning team was Orlando Health.
PERFETTO NAMED SENIOR OF THE MONTH The West Orange Seniors recently announced Nancy Perfetto as its Senior of the Month. A new show appeared on Broadway April 17, 1949. It was Easter Sunday, and Perfetto was born to Leonarda, who was called Nana, and Joseph Samper. The only child of the family, Perfetto was born by the George Washington Bridge in Manhattan, New York. After attending Catholic grammar and high school, she began working for the New York Telephone Company as a business representative. She later worked for the Columbia Presbyterian Medical Center in outpatient billing accounts. Perfetto married in 1972 after moving to New Jersey, where she learned to become an independent woman. She began work for the New Jersey Telephone Company. During this time, Perfetto had two
+ O.C. Retired Educators Assoc. The Orange County Retired Educators Association will meet at 10 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 8, 2015, at College Park United Methodist Church, 644 W. Princeton St., Orlando. Gary Moser, of OCREA, will discuss Florida Retirement System Benefits and frequently asked questions. Anyone who has worked in education is invited to join. For more information, visit ocrea-fl.org or call (407) 6770446.
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+ American Legion, Hugh T. Gregory Post 63 The American Legion, Hugh T. Gregory Post 63, in conjunction with Florida Blood Centers, will conduct a blood drive from 2 to 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 19, in front of the Hugh T. Gregory Legion Post, 271 W. Plant St., Winter Garden. Each pint of blood donated is
Nancy Perfetto, of the West Orange Seniors, recently was honored with this month’s Senior of the Month award. sons, Thomas John and John James. In 1988, Perfetto and her sons moved to Florida. The household consisted of her two sons, her parents and one Siberian husky. She then became a bartender for 10 equivalent to three lives saved. Successful donors will receive free movie ticket vouchers. The Post will be open with sodas, coffee, tea, water, fruits and pastries available for those who attend. For more information, call (407) 656-6361.
OCOEE
+ W.O. Seniors The West Orange Seniors will hold its Christmas luncheon at 12:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 18, at the Ocoee Lakeshore Center, 150 N. Lakeshore Drive. The cost is $8 per person. Bingo night is held from 3 to 6:30 p.m. every Sunday and from 1 to 3:30 p.m. every Monday, at the Tom Ison Seniors and Veterans Center, 1701 Adair St., Ocoee. The cost is $76 per person. Free arthritis chair exercises, sponsored by Health Central Hospital, take place at 8 a.m. Wednesdays and Fridays at the senior center. Every Tuesday, line-dancing classes are available at 10 a.m., with a minimum $2 donation,
DIAMOND CENTER
and free belly-dancing exercises are offered at 1 p.m. The seniors play cards from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays. They also enjoy dominoes, walking, social activities, coffee and more beginning at 9 a.m. each Wednesday at the center. For more information about the West Orange Seniors and upcoming events, call (407) 592-4498 or visit westorangeseniors.yolasite.com.
WEST ORANGE DUPLICATE BRIDGE CLUB RESULTS FROM DEC. 11 N-S: 1. S. Kmiec – M. Ryan 2. B. Shelton – B. Ballenger 3. J. Swartwood – S. Jordan 4. H. Parker – M. Lesnik 5. S. Ashley – E. Quinn; E-W: 1. J. and R. Jett 2. D. and J. Schweiger 3. S. and B. Binkley 4. O. and B. Brantley 5. S. Horovitz – R. Austen.
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years at the snack shack of the naval training center, where she had the time of her life. Because baking is one of her passions, Perfetto took cakes into work for sampling and for sale. Two of her customers, one being Disney’s Shades of Green hotel manager and the other the food and beverage manager, were so impressed they had her transferred to work with them at Disney World. This made Perfetto the only baker for the 229-room hotel. Later, after five years teaching men and women to make home-cooked meals as the Aprons lady for Publix Super Markets, Perfetto decided to become the bakery manager for the Winn-Dixie bakery department to be closer to home to care for her mother. At Publix, she got to know her customers, their children and families. She was even invited to their homes and birthday parties.
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WEST ORANGE TIMES
WOTimes.com
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2014
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LETTING IT GO by Zak Kerr | Staff Writer
Anna and Elsa highlight Windermere movie night Hundreds of Windermere residents gathered for the annual Christmas Movie Under the Stars on Dec. 13 at the Town Hall lawn. Blankets and folding chairs abounded almost as much as the complimentary popcorn, pizza and drinks the town provided. Families watched Disney’s “Frozen” on a large projector screen without much need for their coats and sweats until well into the chilling adventure.
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Windermere newbies Elaine Pezzoli and her husband, Ivan, took son Luca to the event. Left: Marc Paysse made sure he had popcorn before he found a spot with his dad, Mario.
Attendees enjoyed watching Disney’s “Frozen” outside on huge screen.
PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE OF MUNICIPAL ELECTION AND CANDIDATE QUALIFYING Pursuant to Florida Elections Laws, Chapter 100, Section 100.021 and Ocoee Code of Ordinances, Section 5-13, notice is hereby given by the City of Ocoee, Florida that an election will be held Tuesday, March 10, 2015, in the City of Ocoee for the purpose of electing two City Commissioners for three year terms, one (1) Commissioner from District Two and one (1) Commissioner from District Four. Candidates for these offices must Qualify by filing qualifying papers and fees with the City Clerk during regular office hours (8:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.) beginning at noon on January 15, 2015, and ending at noon, January 23, 2015, at City Hall, 150 North Lakeshore Drive, Ocoee, Florida. The fee for qualifying for the office of Commissioner is $90.00. There will be two polling locations in the City of Ocoee, at Jim Beech Recreation Center, 1820 A. D. Mims Road and the Ocoee Lakeshore Center, 125 North Lake Shore Drive. Polling places will be open between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, March 10, 2015. Those electors who need to cast an absentee ballot for this election must contact the Orange County Supervisor of Elections either online at http://www. ocfelections.com or by calling (407) 836-2070 and requesting an absentee ballot. City of Ocoee residents who currently are registered to vote in general elections are registered for this city election. However, those citizens who have recently moved into the City of Ocoee (or who have moved within the City) should check with the Orange County Supervisor of Elections to be sure their registration shows a current address. All eligible citizens are urged to take part in this election process. If you are 18 years old, a U.S. citizen, a resident of the City of Ocoee and of the specific District of any office being sought, have not been adjudicated mentally incapacitated with respect to voting in Florida or any other state, have not been convicted of a felony without your civil rights having been restored pursuant to law, and do not claim the right to vote in another municipality, please be aware that you have a right to be registered to vote in this election and the books will close for such registration on February 9, 2015, at 5:00 p.m. Please contact the City Clerk’s Office for more information at 407-9053105. Beth Eikenberry, CMC, City Clerk, City of Ocoee
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WEST ORANGE TIMES
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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2014
CELEBRATION SEASON by Amy Quesinberry Rhode | Community Editor
A chorus led the audience in Christmas carols at Oakland’s Santa Day and Sing-Along.
Oakland embraces season with its annual Santa Day
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Oakland officials held their annual Santa Day Dec. 14, at the gazebo in the town center, and children of all ages, including a 5-week-old and a college student, took turns sitting on the jolly old elf’s lap. Cookies were given to the good boys and girls (isn’t everyone good this time of year?). Several food trucks lined the street, and residents could pick up dinner before enjoying the Christmas Sing-Along at the steps of the Oakland Meeting Hall. Participants received candle-shaped lights to wave as the sun set. A chorus led the crowd in singing songs celebrating Christmas. The Town Commission also took part in a tree-planting ceremony at nearby VanderLey Park.
Oakland resident Marilyn Mack received a candy cane from Santa Claus after hopping onto his lap Saturday afternoon.
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Commissioners Mike Satterfield and Rick Polland, Mayor Kathy Stark, Town Manager Dennis Foltz, Commissioner Joseph McMullen and Public Works Director Mike Parker planted a tree in VanderLey Park as part of Santa Day. Oakland is designated as a Tree City.
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WEST ORANGE TIMES
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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2014
o come all ye faithful by Zak Kerr | Staff Writer
The ride was so packed that high-schoolers sat in the pickup towing it.
Church’s Christmas caroling hayride hits the right notes First United Methodist Church of Winter Garden’s Club G3 took its holiday spirit to the streets Dec. 10 for a Christmas caroling hayride. The children enjoyed a dinner together before spreading holiday cheer through song throughout Winter Garden.
Children were ready to belt out their favorite Chrismas carols.
Paisley Mickler, 1, shared her bell-jingling talents. Right: Gary Davis bade his adoring public a fond farewell.
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General $8.00 Child (2-12) $6.00 Senior (60+) $6.00 Matinee (before 5pm) $6.00 3D is an additional $2.00 per ticket
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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2014
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HOBBIT THE BATTLE OF FIVE
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Fri 3:50 7:00 Sat 12:40 3:50 7:00 Sun-Tues 3:50 7:00 Wed 3:50
NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM SECRET
Thursday: 4:40 7:40 9:45 Sat 1:40 4:40 7:40 9:45 Sun-Tues 1:40 4:40 7:40 Wed 1:40 4:40
The National Elementary Honor Society at Whispering Oak Elementary held its Annual Food Drive. Members set a goal of collecting 2,500 items and the school exceeded that by collecting more than 3,600 items. The donations will benefit Bread of Life in Ocoee to help local families in need.
PG
HOBBIT THE BATTLE OF FIVE 3D Fri-Sat 9:50 Sun-Tues 12:40 Wed 12:40
CLASSNOTES
PG
Family Christian School recently held a school-wide spelling bee to determine which students will represent the school at the ACSI Spelling Bee in February 2015. Each grade had a spell-off, which narrowed down the students to two per grade that will be competing in the bee. Front row, from left: Preston Frisch, Lyla Munson, Cole Toughey and Magnus Putigna. Second row, from left: Leo Napolitano, Tiana Tran, Lola Ackman and Timothy Harrington. Third row, from left: Elizabeth Charriez, Daniel Harrington, Bella Scramoncin and Davie Wimberly. Back row, from left: Max Terechenok, Landon O’Brien, Drew Michael and Megan Lung.
JOIN US CHRISTMAS EVE
+ Foundation class continues tradition What began as a class serving opportunity once a month at Matthew’s Hope has blossomed into a special Christmas serving tradition. Foundation Academy’s Class of 2017 began serving a monthly dinner at Matthew’s Hope. In the students’ fifthgrade year, Matthew’s Hope put on its first Christmas party and asked the groups that came in who would want to take on different portions of the party. The Foundation Academy group was assigned the meal. The students make the Christmas dinner meal, serve it, wait the tables and clean up. They create the meal, which includes turkey, two starches, two veggies, drinks, homemade desserts, coffee and eggnog. Then most of the students are assigned to tables and wait on that table from beginning to end, including making the guests to-go boxes. The other
FRESH PRODUCE DAILY
Courtesy photos
Front row, from left: Samantha Wilber, Macy Glance, Madison Morris, Emma Gick, Cynthia Hall, Maya Weubben and Alli Blaha. Second row, from left: Abbie Adamson, Camden Boast, Jagger Shuler, Justin Watts, Santa, Josh Dilena, Jordan Workman, Zach Castanon, Bryson Boast, Bryant Chalker, Evan Fitzgibbon and Evan Thompson. Third row, from left: Noah Johnson, Charlie Gick, Carson Mears, Carlos Ojeda and Jordan Boast. Back row, from left: Jacob Bolin, Evan Lawless, Dillon Hall, Chaz Cannon and Collin Cressman. students keep the food replenished and serve the plates to the waitstaff. Parents also pitch in and take charge of the
kitchen to make sure there are no calamities. The students have continued this tradition for six years.
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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2014
STARR / PAGE 9A moved back to her childhood home. Doris grew up in the Oakland house built by Orange Belt Railway founder Peter Demens. When the railroad went bankrupt, Demens sold the house to Robert Fulton Smith, Doris’ grandfather. The framed vernacular
home stood at the northwest corner of Oakland Avenue and Starr Street, across the road from the Oakland Presbyterian Church. Its fancy Victorian details were typical of the homes built by the Orange Belt officers. Doris’ childhood home was picked up and relocated to the Pollard property on Jefferson Street at the west end of town,
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and the Starrs built the brick ranch-style home that still stands on the site today. The original house no longer exists, though its black walnut “floating mantel” now rests in the home of Doris’ nephew. Dave Starr voluntarily retired as sheriff of Orange County at the end of 1971 but stayed active in local affairs. He died in 1985.
TIMES / PAGE 9A
“’Twas the Night Before Christmas” to them, and when they face, her hand smashlearned to read, they ing the plastic nose took over the duties. into his real nose, his I still let them open mouth wide open in one present on Christa death scream and mas Eve, something a cookie in his hand small. One year, I gave with one bite taken them watches (that out of it — a bribe that was a cool year). Anobviously didn’t work. other, calendars (lame I set up a Nativity year). scene in my backWe’ve attempted yard for the next Christmas cookies card, complete with many times, and costumes, hay and a more often than not, baby doll. Allison was Santa looks like a blob an awesome Mary, devoid of any details patient and still, while whatsoever. (Our I wrestled and pleaded gingerbread houswith Adam to keep his es looked like they Joseph garb on. I took were built in Tornado an entire roll of film Alley.) Before the kids for this one. But all I went to bed on Dec. needed was one good 24, they placed their one, and I somehow best-looking (!) homemanaged to get it. made cookies on the On a miserably hot Santa plate, filled the December day the Santa mug with milk next year, I borrowed and put them by the a sled and a “Let it fireplace. Not wanting snow” sign, dressed Amy Quesinberry Rhode to leave out the reinthe kids in warm Sometimes, it took an entire roll of film just deer, a bowl of water winter gear and poto get the shot. But it was always worth it. and some carrots were sitioned them on the left outside by the sled with their hands front door. out and their eyes gazing loudly to carols the whole At that point, I had three hopefully at the snowless sky. time. jobs: tuck the kids into bed; Another year, Adam was Other nights, we watched bring out all of the presents Santa and Allison was an elf. Frosty, Rudolph, Charlie and create a dazzling display But the kids weren’t so little Brown and the Grinch. As of wonder; and then go outanymore and weren’t so eathe kids got older, these side to dump out some wager to dress up and jump into TV-watching traditions ina silly Christmas scene — not cluded “Elf” and “The Night- ter, nibble on the carrots and toss some red glitter (from that Adam ever truly was — mare Before Christmas.” Rudolph’s nose, you know) so my final cards were simBooks played a big part of ple: my cute kiddos dressed our Decembers. I kept a stack near the reindeer feast. These days, I simply kiss nicely and smiling big. of Christmas books on our them good night and go to Other Christmas traditions hearth, and we read a differbed. While it’s nice to get a aren’t as complex. Every ent one every night. good night’s sleep before the year, on a random night, we On Christmas Eve, our big day of gifts, giving thanks, all — yes, all — put on our family always attends the food and family, I do miss pajamas and drive around candlelight service at our those innocent Christmases West Orange County looking church. Afterward, in the with my babies by my side. at Christmas lights, singing kids’ younger years, I read
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WEST ORANGE TIMES
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YEAREND GIVING? CONSIDER US
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2014
TIMESOBITUARIES Judith “Judy” Bellamy Brooks
Oakland Presbyterian Church Join us for our Special Christmas Events:
Christmas Eve Candlelight Communion Services 5:00, 7:30 and 11:00pm
After a long battle with cancer, Judith “Judy” Bellamy Brooks cruised into the afterlife on Wednesday, Dec. 10, 2014 at the age of 73. Judy was born on May 12, 1941, in Knoxville, Tennessee, to father Frank Brown Bellamy and mother Nell Blanche Gibson. She was raised by her mother “Nellie” and stepfather, Samuel Jones, and grew up in Miami in a small family with her half-brother, Jamie Jones. Judy married Charles “Chuck” Wayman Brooks on Nov. 21, 1961. They met while working together at a furniture store in Miami, where Judy was an office clerk and Chuck was a furniture maker. They eventually relocated to Ocoee, where Judy began her career in retail as an office manager. There, the couple lived and raised their two daughters Rebecca Piety and Cynthia Cole-Moschler. Judy was the sole supporter of their family when her husband became disabled while working as a quality-control inspector. It is from their mom that her daughters learned the value of hard work and dedication. Judy had a love for reading, bluegrass and country music, Southern home-cooking, imbibing in the occasional adult beverage, and international travel (especially her exuberant experiences at Carlos’n Charlie’s in Mexico). When diagnosed with co-
lon cancer early in 2013, Judy kept a positive outlook for an optimistic future to kick cancer’s ass — even throughout countless chemotherapy treatments, scans, hospitalizations and pain. Throughout her journey, Judy was dedicated to her work, family and her will to fight her illness. She remained a brave, strong woman even throughout her final days. Judy leaves behind her daughters, Cynthia ColeMoschler (“the bad one”) and husband, Frank, and Rebecca Piety (the “good” one) and her husband, Scott; her half-brother, Jamie Jones; her grandchildren, Staff Sgt. Christopher Cole, U.S. Marine Corps, Jennifer Carter and Jacob Piety; and her great-grandchildren, Gage Carter and Everett Cole. Judy is preceded in death by her husband, Charles “Chuck” Wayman Brooks. The family would especially like to thank Dr. Sarah Katta and the staff at Southwest Cancer Center for their excellent treatment, care, and compassion; Eileen and Charlotte from Vitas Healthcare Team for their fast response, special talents and kindness they showed our family; her Rooms To Go work family that constantly gave her their love and support; and Shawn Piety for serving as her caretaker when her daughter, Rebecca and son-in-law, Scott, could not be there. The family will receive
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friends from noon to 1:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 19, at Collison Carey Hand Funeral Home, 1148 E. Plant St., Winter Garden. A service will immediately follow beginning at 1:30 p.m. Private family graveside service will be held later that day. Arrangements entrusted to Collison Carey Hand Funeral Home, Winter Garden, collisoncareyhand.com. The family recommends Judy’s favorite florist, Betty J’s, Ocoee. myorlandoflorist.com, for floral arrangements.
J. Cardwell (Sandra). Huntiss also leaves behind 17 grandchildren; 24 great-grandchildren; and one great-greatgrandchild. Huntiss was preceded in death by her parents, George Washington and Cora Davis; two sons, Don and Danny Cardwell; two brothers, Billy Davis and Lunney Davis; one sister, Linnie V. Davis; two grandchildren, Brian and Pauline; and one great-grandchild, Cody. Services are in the caring guidance of Winter Oak Funeral Home & Cremations, and were held Thursday, Dec. 11, 2014, with Pastor Marion Wingster officiating.
Huntiss C. Cardwell
Huntiss C. Cardwell, 82, of Winter Garden, passed to her heavenly home on Tuesday, Dec. 9, 2014, surrounded by her loving family. Huntiss was born in Florala, Alabama, to George Washington and Cora Davis. Huntiss was a devoted mother to her eight children and a loving grandmother, great-grandmother and great-greatgrandmother. Huntiss is survived by daughters, Judy Rojas (Rafael), Elain Story and Laura J. Draime (Jimmy); and sons, Jerry Wayne Cardwell, Larry Dean Cardwell and Tommy
Michael Ambrose Dragon Jr.
Michael Ambrose Dragon Jr., 92, of Orlando, passed away Wednesday Dec. 3, 2014. He was born in Fairchance, Pennsylvania, as a second child of Michael Ambrose and Johanna (Pavlits) Dragon. A graduate of the University of Pittsburgh College of Pharmacy (1948), Michael came to Florida in 1960s and practiced as the appreciated, well-known pharmacist in the
GIVE PRESENCE FOR CHRISTMAS
WEST ORANGE TIMES
WOTimes.com
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2014
TIMESOBITUARIES Orlando area for more than 50 years. He started with Ligette Rexall Pharmacy in Dover Shores and retired from Albertsons Pharmacy at Dr. Phillips in August 2008. Michael was a U.S. Army veteran of World War II, where he achieved the rank of Sergeant 4th Grade. Landing on the shores of France and then fighting through Belgium, Holland and Germany, Michael remained overseas during the surrender and the end of the war. A passionate history, music and arts lover, Michael was involved in several local non-profit arts organizations as a member, volunteer, patron and donor and was one of the 13 patrons who founded in 1996 the Friends, a volunteer organization dedicated to supporting the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra. A kind, loving gentleman, Michael will be greatly missed by his much-loved wife of 29 years, Jirina (Ina) Dragon; two sisters, Madelyn (Dragon) Krupa, of Pennsylvania, and Rita (Dragon) Seese, of Pennsylvania; two daughters, Michelle Smith and Lydia O’Hara from his previous marriage; two sisters-in-law, Mary Lou Dragon, of Ohio, and Dorothy Dragon, of Ohio; and his extended family throughout the U.S. and the Czech Republic. Michael was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, William Dragon and Richard Dragon. Donations in Michael’s memory can be made to the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra, 812 E. Rollins St., Suite 300, Orlando, Florida 32803. Arrangements entrusted to the caring guidance of Winter Oak Funeral Home & Cremations.
Tom had a master’s degree in engineering from UCF and worked at Walt Disney World as an industrial engineer for 15 years. He is survived by his loving wife, Andrea Vaughn Edwards; his parents, Tom and Hila Edwards; and his sister, Rhaina Smeds. Tom was predeceased by his mother, Runette Edwards. A celebration of Tom’s life will be held at 11:30 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 18, at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, 4851 South Apopka-Vineland Road, Orlando. In lieu of flowers, donations would be welcomed at the Florida Methodist Children’s Home at P.O. Box 6299, Deltona, Florida 32728-9988, or your preferred charity.
(Teri) Overstreet, of Howie in the Hills; a sister, Ann Carter, of Graham, North Carolina; three grandchildren, Christy Overstreet, of Tavares, Nathan Overstreet, of Wildwood, and Shawn Vigneault, of Winter Garden; and three great-grandchildren, Hailey, JonEd and Wyatt. Willie is predeceased by his parents; his daughter, Cathy Newton; a brother, Ted Overstreet; and sister Mariann Middleton. A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 20, at Beulah Baptist Church 671 Beulah Road, Winter Garden, Florida 34787. Pastor Jathan Murphy officiating. Arrangements entrusted to the caring guidance of Winter Oak Funeral Home & Cremations.
worked for Keene Harvesting as a truck driver. Albert leaves to cherish his memories: two sons, Albert Lee Turner and Albert James (Lillie) Turner; and four daughters, Shirley (Johnnie B) Jack, Patricia Williams, Vivian Turner and Mittie Adams. A service of celebration was held at Bethlehem Missionary Baptist Church, Winter Garden. Postell’s Mortuary provided service for the Turner family.
Duncan S. Williams
Willie Edward Overstreet
Willie Edward Overstreet, 75, of Winter Garden, passed away Monday Dec. 15, 2014. He was born in Screven, Georgia, a son of Willie and Estelle (Jackson) Overstreet. Willie has lived in Winter Garden for the past 20 years. He was the husband of Sandra (Hulsey) Overstreet. Willie was the owner of Bills Quick Lunch Food Truck for more than 40 years and served the Orlando area. Willie retired in 2000. Willie was also a veteran of the U.S. Air Force. He was stationed in England and Pease Air Force Base in New Hampshire. Besides his wife, Sandy, Willie is survived by his son, Billy
Albert Lee Turner
Albert Lee Turner, 90, of Winter Garden, departed this life Saturday, Dec. 6, 2014. He was a loyal employee for Bud Owens, where he worked as an auto mechanic. He also
Duncan S. Williams, 78, of Ocoee, departed this life on Wednesday, Nov. 26, 2014. Duncan attended the Colegio Abel Bravo, where he completed high school. Soon after, he migrated to the United States. Duncan was a caring person and very helpful to all who knew him. He worked with the Housing Company for many years in Brooklyn, New York. Duncan leaves to mourn his passing: his beloved compan-
ion, Ms. Constance Stewart; three sons, Benito, Dino and Duncan Jr.; two daughters, Damaris Williams and Gladys Williams-Armanza (Jose); brother, Edgar Williams; two sisters, Imogene Christopher and Elsa Skeete; four grandchildren; and one great-grandchild. A service of celebration was held on Sunday, Dec. 7. Postell’s Mortuary provided service for the Williams family. SERGIO JAVIER ALVAREZ, 63, of Ocoee, died Dec. 9, 2014. DeGusipe Funeral Home and Crematory, West Orange Chapel, Ocoee. NANCY ANN CALDWELL, 69, of Ocoee, died Dec. 12, 2014. Banfield Funeral Home, Winter Springs.
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Funeral Home & Cremations, Winter Garden. ROBERT JOHN MORTIMER, 22, of Winter Garden, died Dec. 5, 2014. Hayes Brothers Funeral Home, Altamonte Springs Chapel, Fern Park. TERRANCE GLADSTONE NIBBS, 72, of Ocoee, died Dec. 8, 2014. Mitchell’s Funeral Home, Orlando. HILDA B. ODEM, 89, of Orlando, died Dec. 11, 2014. Woodlawn Funeral Home in Gotha. PHILLIP PRITCHARD, 50, of Winter Garden, died Nov. 8, 2014. Compass Pointe Cremation Services, Orlando.
JOHN EDWARDS “JACK” HARRIS, 81, of Winter Garden, died Dec. 2, 2014.
MARTHA JANE RAINEY, 78, of Clermont, died Nov. 29, 2014. Winter Oak Funeral Home & Cremations, Winter Garden.
JANIE M. HEWETT, 66, of Ocoee, died Dec. 3, 2014. Collison Carey Hand Funeral Home, Winter Garden Chapel.
ROSS KINCAID SCHNEIDER, 72, of Winter Garden, died Nov. 29, 2014. Neptune Society, Altamonte Springs.
MAY LOUISE HOFFMAN, 91, died Nov. 28, 2014. Baldwin-Fairchild Funeral Home, Winter Garden Chapel.
JIMMY SCOTT, 52, of Winter Garden, died Nov. 7, 2014. Compass Pointe Cremation Services, Orlando.
MARY LOUISE “CHARLIE” (HAMMOND) JUSTICE, 79, of Orlando, died Dec. 6, 2014. Collison Carey Hand Funeral Home, Winter Garden Chapel.
CARLA JO SULLIVAN, 31, of Ocoee, died Dec. 4, 2014. Dobbs Funeral Home, Orlando.
ERNEST A. LIZOTTE JR., 69, died Dec. 8, 2014. Winter Oak
BOUNLIOU XAYACHACK, 70, of Ocoee, died Dec. 9, 2014. Woodlawn Funeral Home, Gotha.
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Sports
YOUTH | HIGH SCHOOL | GOLF | COMMUNITY
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK Hannah Zoeltsch leads Warriors to win over Apopka. 3B
WOTIMES.COM
SIDELINE SCENE
Knights hoops on uptick after win at DP
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2014
dual threat by Steven Ryzewski | Sports Editor
SUPER SEASON by Steven Ryzewski | Sports Editor
DP team ends season at Super Bowl Semifinals The Panthers’ Unlimited team came up just short to eventual national champions Everett, Mass., finishing 15-1 and tying the furthest a DP Pop Warner team has ever gone.
Coach Rob Gordon calls victory ‘program-defining;’ Ocoee facing week of big games. Rob Gordon called it as he saw it in the moments after the Ocoee Knights boys basketball team defeated Dr. Phillips, at Dr. Phillips, Dec. 9. “That’s a program-defining win for us,” Gordon said after the Knights scored the 86-80 victory. “That’s the biggest win in the four years that I’ve been here. … That’s a team that is trying to win a state championship, and for us to come into their place and beat STEVEN them — RYZEWSKI that speaks volumes to where we are going and what we are trying to do.” Of course, Gordon wasn’t alone in his evaluation. Ocoee improved to a perfect 7-0 with the win against the Panthers, and the Orlando Sentinel bumped the Knights up to No. 5 in its poll of Central Florida’s best teams. Since then, Ocoee (7-2) has dropped a pair of contests against good teams (to Evans, 55-48, and to The First Academy, 74-71). It’s a bit of a damper on the program’s unprecedented start to the season, but the fact remains — with arguably the best backcourt in Central Florida, the Knights are asserting themselves as one of the area’s strongest teams. That backcourt, consisting of senior guards Grant Riller and Vaughn McCall, has been key in each of Ocoee’s seven wins. “They just play so well off of each other,” Gordon said of Riller and McCall’s play after the two combined for 54 points in the win over DP. “But tonight, everything came within the flow of the system and not just one of the two of them having to take over a game.”
Steven Ryzewski
Brandon Vees is a senior at Legacy High School and was a starter for the Eagles during football season while currently coming off the bench for Legacy’s varsity basketball team.
FLYING HIGH Legacy Charter senior Brandon Vees embodies the very principles upon which the school was founded. The Eagle is enjoying time on the basketball court after finishing his career on the football team.
Courtesy photo
Brandon Vees, normally a lineman, got the opportunity to carry the ball late in the season and even scored a touchdown.
SEE SIDELINE / 3B
Steven Ryzewski
Brandon Vees is known on the hardwood for his tenacious defense and getting plenty of rebounds.
OCOEE — For Jarrett Wiggers, the realization of just how dedicated senior Brandon Vees was to making it on the Legacy Charter football team came unexpectedly one morning. The football program at Legacy uses the web service Hudl to help its players study the playbook and game film. As an administrator within the program, Wiggers had the ability to check and see which players had been logging in to study up and for how long they had done so. So, one morning, a weekday morning on a school day, Wiggers was in his office scrolling through the login activity and saw something that caught his eye. “I came across Brandon and I thought, ‘That’s weird — it says he’s logged in right now,’ and it was like 10 o’clock in the morning,’” Wiggers said. “So I walked down the hallway and looked in the door of the classroom he was in, and he’s on the computer in the corner on Hudl. I don’t know what he was supposed to be doing, but he finds every opportunity he
SEE VEES / 2B
LAKE BUENA VISTA — Dr. Phillips Pop Warner’s Unlimited team might not have won a national championship, but the Panthers did accomplish their goal for 2014. “We set a goal at the end of last year, when we just lost a heart-breaker in the Mid-Florida Championship,” DP head coach Tim Mara said. “(The boys) came in ready to play this year with one goal in mind — and that was to get to Disney.” The Panthers did indeed make it to Disney’s ESPN Wide World of Sports for the 58th Pop Warner Super Bowl last week and participated in two exciting, memorable contests. DP opened play Dec. 7 with a 22-18 victory over Brick City (New Jersey) but fell to the Everett (Massachusetts) Crimson Tide in the Unlimited (ages 14-and-under, no weight restrictions) national semifinals, 24-22, Dec. 10. Trailing Everett 24-8 at halftime, for a minute things seemed like the Panthers had things right where they wanted them, poised to score another come-from-behind win. DP (15-1) shut out the powerhouse program from Massachusetts and got within two points — fueled by a pair of touchdown runs by Caleb McMillan and two interceptions by Parker Mara — before simply running out of time. “All season, just like our last game, this team has no quit,” Mara said moments after the crushing defeat. “They knew they were down, but they knew they would come back — and they did. I would say 10% (of the success in the second half) was the adjustments we (coaches) made, and the rest of it was these kids figuring out a way to stop (Everett) out there on their own.”
Head coach Tim Mara shares some strategy with quarterback Parker Mara. The Crimson Tide went on to coast in the National Championship on Saturday morning, beating up on the Reno (Nevada) Miners, 39-0. That the Everett team that DP nearly knocked off had such an easy time in the championship is a fact that might add a little to the sting of the Dec. 10 defeat — but is also reason for the Panthers to be proud. “We came, really, a couple plays short of probably winning it,” Mara said. “We were right there with all of them. We’re as good as anybody out there; we just didn’t win on that day.” The loss in the semifinals of the Pop Warner Super Bowl ties the furthest a team from DP’s Pop Warner program has ever advanced. In 2005, the Panthers’ Junior Pee Wees also fell in the semifinals of that year’s championships. The Unlimited age division is the highest level of Pop War-
SEE POP WARNER / 2B
Caleb McMillan leaps over an Everett defender en route to a big gain for the Panthers.
calling on the community by Steven Ryzewski | Sports Editor
West Orange seeks donations for replacement turf field Athletic Director Adam Miller is challenging local businesses, families and alumni to chip in to replace synthetic field, originally installed in 2006.
Steven Ryzewski
Grant Riller, a senior guard for Ocoee and College of Charleston signee, scored a program-record 39 points for the Knights on Saturday against The First Academy.
Adam Miller, the athletic director at West Orange High School, is reaching out to the community of West Orange County to help the school replace its synthetic turf field. According to Miller, the replacement field will cost $333,904, and the full cost must be paid up front. Current donations toward the cause total $63,250, leaving $270,654 to be raised by the school’s target date of Feb. 1, 2015.
The synthetic turf field at West Orange High School is in need of replacing. West Orange’s current turf field was installed in the winter of 2006 and has been in use for
eight years. The synthetic surface has allowed for low maintenance costs over those years
Steven Ryzewski
while the school has hosted any number of athletic events, including its varsity football,
soccer and lacrosse games, as well as other events, such as the FHSAA State Finals for boys and girls lacrosse and, most recently, the Orange County Senior Bowl. While the field is currently functional, it has begun to show signs of wear and tear over the past few years. Should it become unplayable without the funds for a replacement, the turf would be deemed unsafe, and West Orange would be unable to play any home games in football, soccer or la-
SEE TURF / 2B
2B WOTimes.com VEES / PAGE 1B can to jump on there.” The dedication from Vees comes with a purpose — Vees is a person with autism. The offensive and defensive lineman for the Eagles during football season had to work tirelessly simply to keep up with Legacy’s playbook on schematic attacks. Now, Vees is in the middle of his first season on the Eagles’ varsity basketball program after playing on the junior varsity team the past few seasons. It is a unique opportunity for the senior, who comes off the bench for Legacy during basketball season, one that is a byproduct of Vees’ work ethic and desire to be an athlete, as well as the culture of the school’s campus.
FOUNDING PRINCIPLES
In a way, Vees’ inclusion on two of the school’s varsity sports programs is representative of the kind of principles upon which the school was founded. Legacy High School and Hope Charter School, which share a campus on the Winter Garden-Ocoee border, were founded by Crystal Yoakum after she became dissatisfied with the options for her own son, Josiah, who also is a person with autism. Yoakum found that most options centered around the idea of keeping the children with special needs separated from the rest of the student population, and she wanted her son to be able to work toward being integrated into standard classes, where possible. As such, part of the school’s mission statement reads that “… we want to provide an inclusion model for autistic children that would allow a gradual transition from the ESE classroom to a regular education classroom, thus offering the same opportunity for them to reach their full potential.” For Vees’ father and stepmother, Paul and Lisa Vees, as well as his mother, Cindy Vees, having Brandon attend Legacy has been a blessing in that it has created opportunities that likely would not have existed for him elsewhere. “I don’t know they would actually take the time with him (to be able to play sports) at the bigger schools,” Paul Vees said. “Here they definitely take the time and show him how to do things. … After being here (at Legacy) for this length of time, it’s like nightand-day.”
A CONTRIBUTOR
Of course, Brandon isn’t only on the football and basketball squads as a friendly gesture. The senior, who Wiggers said put on significant muscle in the offseason, was a key contributor for the football team and has seen the floor some in basketball. “He’s not only able to be a part of the team, but to participate in practice and not just be on the sideline,” said Matthew Post, Legacy’s boys basketball coach. Brandon had considerable success at the JV level for hoops, scoring as many as 16 points in a single game, so the staff has had to guide him through the adjustment to reduced playing time at the varsity level. “Coming off of a football season where he was one of our starters and then coming into a basketball season where we get him in when we
WEST ORANGE TIMES
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2014
can, it’s hard for him to understand why that is,” Wiggers said. “You have to explain to him in very great detail why that is.” Still, Vees’ dedication persists — and translates over to his play. “He’s tenacious — he goes after (rebounds),” Kole Enright, a senior on the Eagles’ basketball team, said. “I think he just loves competing.”
BENEFIT TO OTHERS
While it is obvious to Brandon’s parents at Legacy has greatly benefited him, Wiggers believes his presence also has been beneficial to his teammates. “They got as much, or more, out of having Brandon as a part of our team as he got out of being a part of our team,” Wiggers said. “It taught them patience — there were times when it was very easy to be frustrated with him. … The boys really learned to adjust to that and to be uplifting and encouraging.” The athletic director for Legacy said those benefits extend to himself and his other coaches on campus, too. “It’s not always easy to make sure that you’re keeping track of that because you’ve got 30 boys,” Wiggers said. “That was something that we learned to do as a staff.” It’s a sentiment that Post, who formerly was a coach at Ocoee High School, shares. “It’s helped me grow and understand what he’s overcome just to be on the court,” Post said.
SCORING ONE FOR TIM
Anyone who knows Brandon probably knows about his favorite athlete, former Florida Gators quarterback Tim Tebow. “I like him because he was a great quarterback,” Brandon said. “He was a great quarterback because of his faith. … He’s a great Christian person.” Brandon is known to wax poetic about Tebow, and like his idol, Vees wanted to score a touchdown at least once during his high school career. Toward the end of season, Wiggers and his staff arranged for that to happen. Brandon, normally a lineman, got to carry the ball several times in one of the Eagles’ final games — with one of those runs going for a touchdown. The play was actually called back because of a penalty, but to this day, Brandon doesn’t seem to have noticed and, as his father, Paul, put it, “Whether it counted or not, nobody cares.” Legacy senior quarterback Colton Liddell, who has known Brandon since Vees came to the school in seventh grade, was the one who handed off the ball to him. “It was great,” Liddell said. “He’d been telling us, he brings up a dream that he had where he scores a touchdown and Tim Tebow and his parents are all standing over there celebrating. We’ve been wanting him to get a touchdown for quite a while. That was a huge moment — it was extremely emotional.” Brandon Vees’ career at Legacy isn’t over. The basketball team is 4-4 and improving after a rough start. However the season ends, though, thanks to the patience and understanding of the staff and players at Legacy, Brandon has had the opportunity to be an athlete — a win in itself. Contact Steven Ryzewski at sryzewski@wotimes.com.
MEET THE PANTHERS
ALL IN THE FAMILY by Steven Ryzewski | Sports Editor
The following is the roster for 2014 Dr. Phillips Pop Warner Unlimited team: Samuel Barnett Kenyon Baron Jacob Blachura Devon Buckhanon Roger Chater Alex D’Argion-Pinaud Thomas Furry Darrell Harding Jr. Tyler Hartman Frank Maciejczyk Michael MacNeil Matthew Madden Parker Mara Derrick Mays Andre Marshall Caleb McMillan Japerri Powell Jaquarri Powell Christian Przybysz James Richardson Stephen Schyck Felipe Starling Jr. Darius Towns Cameron Williams
POP WARNER / PAGE 1B ner, with a few of the boys on DP’s roster qualifying while actually being freshmen at Dr. Phillips High School this fall. The team’s success should be welcome news to the coaching staff of the Junior Varsity and Varsity football programs at the school, as those talented players — who proved themselves among the best in the nation for their age group — will be suiting up at the high school level soon. “They’re (the staff at DPHS) very excited,” Mara said. “The nice thing about Dr. Phillips (High School) is their staff is an integral part of the program of the Pop Warner. They’re excited with the group that’s coming in — they know there’s a lot of talent with this group.” Rodney Wells, head coach for the varsity program at Dr. Phillips High School, agrees. “It’s awesome,” he said. “I was there Sunday, that was an awesome game — those guys showed some fight being down two scores in the third quarter. ... We feel great about it; we’re really close with the Pop Warner teams. It’s very important. It’s all about relationships.” Contact Steven Ryzewski at sryzewski@wotimes.com.
TURF / PAGE 1B crosse. Money the school has allocated toward a replacement is being used to pay off the current field. In 2006, when the original deal was made to make West Orange the first school in Central Florida to have a turf field, five donors were to have covered 60% of the costs. According to Miller, when it was time for the donors to remit their portions of the payment, the nationwide economic downturn had begun, and the donors backed out of their agreement. The school turned to the Orange County School Board to cover the remaining balance, and West Orange has been repaying the county since. “The Athletic Department challenges every local business, family household, friends, alumni, etc., to donate to the West Orange Athletic Synthetic Turf Fund,” Miller said in a statement. “No amount is too small. … Every dollar given will help us achieve our goal. To make a donation, visit goo.gl/NcgKb8. Contact Steven Ryzewski at sryzewski@wotimes.com.
Steven Ryzewski
Six Warrior wrestlers are actual brothers, including Christian Villafane, left, Matthew Mora, Ethan Mora, Christopher Villafane, Jaylen Paucar and Kenneth Paucar.
West Orange wrestling team creates family atmosphere The Warriors, anchored by three sets of brothers, are 7-1 so far this season after taking first place at Eagle Duels in Poinciana. WINTER GARDEN — When members of the West Orange wrestling team step onto the mat at a competition, they do so as individuals. Nonetheless, head coach Kristin Iannuzzi works to instill the concept of team and being a brotherhood. This season, the concept has taken on a new meaning — the team has three sets of actual brothers, including twins. So far, the combination of having actual brothers and a close-knit team has boded well for West Orange, which took home first place at the Eagle Duels Dec. 13 at Poinciana High School. “It’s huge for us — it’s all about family,” Iannuzzi said. “Even if they’re not blood-brothers, these guys are closer than they are with some of their siblings because of the stress of the training they go through. … No one gets that unless you’re here every day.” The teams’ brothers include twins Christian and Christopher Villafane, Matthew and Ethan Mora and Jaylen and Kenneth Paucar. Having three sets of brothers on the team is more than the veteran coach can remember ever having had in one season. “I’ve had brothers in the past go through the program (but) never this many,” Iannuzzi said. “It’s interesting to see how different they are. I’ve never had two brothers that are the same (as wrestlers).” West Orange improved to 7-1 over the weekend and has looked strong so far this season. The Warriors won the Eagle Duels in spite of being down two key wrestlers, and Iannuzzi said she is encouraged by what she has seen. West Orange will compete in St. Cloud on Friday and Saturday in the Bulldog IBT Brawls — a good chance for the Warriors to see just how far along they are. “(We have) a strong foundation,” Iannuzzi said. “We’re hoping for big things because
WRESTLERS GRAPPLE WITH NEW SEASON West Orange-area wrestling teams returned to action last week. Here’s a rundown of each of our four area programs.
DR. PHILLIPS
John Miller, who has been a part of the program at DP for eight years, will take his turn as the head coach for the Panthers this winter. Miller steps up to lead a program that went 12-9 a season ago, eventually placing eighth in the state in Class 3A, and is 1-2 so far. Dylan Meeks, the defending Class 3A state champion at 195 pounds and a sophomore this season, looks to key Dr. Phillips, as does David Hellinger, a senior state qualifier at 182 pounds. Miller said he expects strong leadership from his more experienced wrestlers to help bring along some of its newcomers. MUST-SEE MATCH: Jan. 28, 2015 at Olympia
OCOEE
The Knights graduated their only state qualifier from a season ago in Devyn Lewis, but Ocoee is optimistic for success under head coach John Parmenter. The Knights do return Jules Joseph, who as a junior, placed second at last year’s district meet. Ocoee will look to improve upon an eighth place finish at districts a season ago. MUST-SEE MATCH: Bull Dog Brawl, Dec. 19 and 20 at St. Cloud
OLYMPIA
The Titans have had to replace eight seniors lost
the foundation is definitely there.” In total, since Iannuzzi took over the program in 2008
to graduation, two of which were state qualifiers, but head coach Jeremy Bourst is optimistic in what his team can accomplish this season. “We’ve had more guys come out for our team this year than we have ever had, so our goal will be to get better every week and hopefully be in the hunt at the Metro and District tournaments in February,” Bourst said. Olympia went 13-5 last season in dual meets and returns the likes of Todd Rylands, Brian Draper, Tyler Ingle and Brandon Rodriguez to lead the way. MUST-SEE MATCH: Jan. 28, 2015 vs. Dr. Phillips
WEST ORANGE
In her seventh season at the helm, head coach Kristen Iannuzzi is looking to lead a team that placed third in the Metro and its district a season ago, finishing 21-12 overall, to new heights. The Warriors are off to a 2-1 start this season and are anchored by a returning core of Robert Koncz, Matt Mora, Chris Briscoe and Logan Keoppel. Newcomers Ishmael Hollis and Andres Sabates also look to make an immediate impact. Said Iannuzzi: “We faced our first rebuilding season last year, and I believe it honestly made us significantly stronger and closer as a team. Staying healthy both physically and mentally are going to be critical through an extremely long season.” MUST-SEE MATCH: West Metro Conference Tournament at West Orange, Feb. 11, 2015. when it was on the chopping block, West Orange is 102-41. Contact Steven Ryzewski at sryzewski@wotimes.com.
hustle points by Steven Ryzewski | Sports Editor
Panthers looking to bounce back after tough stretch DP boys hoops has dropped four of five, while Windermere Prep fell to rival The First Academy. OVIEDO — The schedule for Dr. Phillips boys basketball is full of tough opponents. In the past two weeks, that often brutal slate has manifested itself in the form of four losses in the Panthers’ (4-4) past five games. On Saturday, in the headliner contest for Oviedo High School’s Hoops with a Heart Classic, DP fell to the host Lions, 62-45. “We got off to a pretty good start, but, for whatever reason, we stopped defending in the second quarter and we gave their best player (Oviedo senior Matt Milon) a bunch of open looks,” Panthers coach
Anthony Long said. “Oviedo played better than us.” DP had trouble slowing Milon, a Boston College signee, and the dynamic forward finished with 21 points, while point guard Carlos Maffuz was on fire from beyond the arc in scoring 17 points for the Lions (8-1). The Panthers were led by 13 points from senior forward Jonathan Laurent. Although all of the losses for DP have come against elite competition, Long noted that his team — which has aspirations of competing for a state title in Class 8A this winter
— should be embracing such contests. “We have played really good teams — our four losses have been to really quality teams,” Long said. “But, these are the types of teams we’re going to have to beat if we want to make a playoff run.” Dropping four of five can be tough for a group of players that are used to winning more than they lose, but Long expressed confidence in his seniors and leaders to guide the team through the rough patch. “We’ve got good character kids so I’m not too worried about them falling apart — we’ve got good leaders,” Long said.
Lakers drop game to TFA
The Windermere Prep Lakers were outscored 19-10 in the third quarter of a rivalry contest against host The First Academy, leading to the Lakers’ first loss in two weeks. Windermere Prep (6-3) fell to the Royals (9-2), 69-66. Despite leading at halftime, the Lakers went cold shooting the ball in the second half. Windermere Prep tied the contest in the fourth quarter after going on an 11-2 run, but TFA pulled away after making some clutch free throws at the charity stripe. The Lakers will return to action this weekend at The Kreul Classic in Coral Springs.
Steven Ryzewski
DP senior guard David Stephen rises up for a layup against the Oviedo Lions Dec. 13 at Oviedo’s Hoops with a Heart Classic.
WEST ORANGE TIMES
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK
The West Orange Warriors girls soccer team is 9-2-4 this winter and scored its first win over Apopka in quite a few years last week, 1-0. There are plenty of reasons and important players behind the Warriors’ success so far this season, one of which has been the leadership of senior captain Hannah Zoeltsch.
Does the overall rivalry between West Orange and Apopka in all sports add to the game, or do you see the game only specific to girls soccer? Oh, yeah, I mean it does. Especially with our football team going back and forth with them. What’s your mentality at this point in the season? Our main focus right now is districts. We have a bye week our first week, so we’re going to just rest up and think about the games. It’s not just Apopka we’re looking forward to — we have to play our best in all of our games. Your team is respected throughout the area and is ranked among Central Florida’s best. What’s it like to get opposing teams’ best shot every night? It’s amazing. Especially going from freshman year (when) we did well, but it wasn’t great. This year, we’re going to go far — I know it. Being a senior and a captain for this team, what have you learned about leadership that you didn’t know before?
Blair M. Johnson M. Johnson Blair M. Johnson Blair Blair Blair M. M. Johnson M. Johnson Johnson AttorneyAt AtLaw Law ••• 407-656-5521 407-656-5521 Attorney Attorney At Law 407-656-5521
by Steven Ryzewski | Sports Editor
HANNAH ZOELTSCH What was it like to defeat Apopka for the first time? It was actually really exciting. It was one of the games that we had planned for this whole season. We worked really hard for it.
It’s hard. Everyone’s doing their own thing, and you have to focus the team. There’s three of us (captains), so we try and get everybody focused and ready for the game. … We make it work. What would you like to study at college? Either marine biology or veterinary school or something like that. What’s your favorite class right now and why? My favorite class is economics. … It’s really fun. You learn a lot of new things that you would never expect with investments and stuff like that. As a senior, there are some big days coming up for you in the spring with prom, Senior Walk Out and graduation — which are you looking forward to the most? Probably
graduation. I’m really excited about that. I love the school and everything, but you’re finally here. A few years from now when you’re graduating college, where would you most like to find a job and live? Probably somewhere in North Carolina or Georgia. I love up north; it’s so pretty. What are you listening to the most recently, music-wise? I think my top thing on Pandora right now is actually John Mayer. What is a hobby or an interest that people may not know about you? Most years, me and my dad go up to North Carolina or Georgia, and I love snowboarding. It’s one of my favorite things in the world.
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on the pitch by Steven Ryzewski | Sports Editor
West Orange girls riding high after win over Apopka The West Orange girls soccer team notched a significant victory Dec. 9, beating a team coach Stan Banks believes it had not defeated in about seven years. Of course, Banks is focused on making sure his girls don’t let the 1-0 win against Apopka go to their heads. After all, the road to the Warriors’ goals this winter will almost certainly run through the Blue Darters at least once more. “It’s tough, because as much as we want to celebrate that (win) probably boosting us to a first seed (in the district tournament) — that’s a team you’ve got to beat twice to get through,” Banks said. “So as big as that win was, the work is far from done.” Indeed, Banks — whose West Orange club is 9-2-4 after dropping a pair of contests at the ultra-competitive Montverde Invitational over the weekend — isn’t just worried about a rematch with Apopka. The competition in Class 5A District 4 has gone up a notch this winter. “As well as Dr. Phillips has been playing, and Olympia, suddenly this district is looking probably more even than it has as long as I’ve been around it,” Banks said. “Probably longer than that.” The Panthers are 11-2-1, and although the Titans are 4-5-2, one of those two draws came
SIDELINE / PAGE 1B take over a game.” Riller is an emerging candidate for Central Florida’s best player, with an ability to score seemingly at will, and McCall is growing into the perfect complement, wisely playing whatever role the squad needs of him on a given night — be it scorer, distributor or both. The Knights’ losses came on a back-to-back against two of the area’s top teams, and Saturday’s loss to The First Academy came with McCall having to sit out with a minor injury.
3B
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Letters to Santa! Hey kids! Write your letter to Santa and drop it off now thru December 24th at either of these two locations for a chance to win a Gift Card! Steven Ryzewski
The West Orange girls soccer team scored an important win over Apopka Dec. 9 and will host Freedom at 7:30 p.m. Thursday. in a well-played contest against the Warriors. Banks said he was concerned about his team’s consistency, noting that often there are games where the offense will attempt just four shots on goal in one half and then 14 shots on goal in the second. What’s most impressed the third year coach, though, has been his team’s defense and its youth. “We hadn’t been scored on in a month until the Montverde tournament,” Banks said. “We have a freshman keeper, we
ONLINE EXTRA
For a recap of Wednesday’s game between Ocoee and West Orange boys basketball, visit wotimes.com. Nevertheless, Riller scored a program-record 39 points in the defeat. Although district tournaments are still a ways away, Ocoee finds itself facing a big week now that the Knights won’t be taking anyone by surprise this season. Ocoee hosted Jones on Tuesday and
have a freshman centerback, we have a sophomore fullback — a pretty young back line, and they were able to keep a clean sheet for a month going into Montverde.” West Orange outscored opponents 23-0 during that stretch. Looming for the Warriors before the holiday break are contests with Lake Minneola (12-0) and Freedom (9-66). West Orange hosted Lake Minneola Tuesday after press time and will host Freedom at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 18. traveled to take on rival West Orange on Wednesday, the results of which were unavailable at press time. Following those important contests, the Knights will travel Dec. 19 to Apopka to take on the Blue Darters in a district battle. It will be the conclusion to a stretch that Gordon believes will be a good indicator of whether his team is for real or not this winter. For more commentary, insights and in-game analysis from Sports Editor Steven Ryzewski, follow him on Twitter at @StevenR_WOTO.
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WEST ORANGE TIMES
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REAL ESTATE by Michael Eng | Executive Editor
Keene’s Pointe home sells for $1.28M The following are West Orange residential real-estate sales from Dec. 5 to Dec. 11. A home in Keene’s Pointe in Windermere topped all residential real-estate sales from Dec. 5 to 11. The home at 9228 Tibet Pointe Circle, Windermere, sold Dec. 11, for $1.28 million. Built in 2007, it has five bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths, a pool and 4,906 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $260.91.
SNAPSHOT Total Sales: 60 High Sale Price: $1.28 million Low Sale Price: $17,000 REO/Bank Owned: 13 Short Sales: Zero
DR. PHILLIPS
Dec. 5, for $66,500 (REO/bank owned). Built in 1994, it has one bedrooms, one bath and 671 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $99.11.
BAY LAKES AT GRANADA
SAND LAKE HILLS
The home at 8912 Esguerra Lane, Orlando, sold Dec. 5, for $245,000. Built in 1983, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 1,848 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $132.58.
LAKE CANE ESTATES
The home at 7029 Talbot Drive, Orlando, sold Dec. 9, for $154,000 (REO/bank owned). Built in 1979, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,445 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $106.57.
SAND LAKE
The condo at 8849 Latrec Ave., No. 109, Orlando, sold
The home at 6130 Hardrock Circle, Orlando, sold Dec. 5, for $234,900. Built in 1981, it has three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 1,651 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $142.28.
SANCTUARY AT BAY HILL
The condo at 7626 Sugar Bend Drive, No. 7626, Orlando, sold Dec. 5, for $125,000. Built in 1996, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,075 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $116.28.
TOSCANA
The home at 6972 Brescia Way, Orlando, sold Dec. 5, for
HOMELESS. SANTA FINDS THEM HERE
$387,000. Built in 2005, it has four bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 2,822 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $137.14.
VIZCAYA HEIGHTS
The home at 8745 The Esplanade, No. 6, Orlando, sold Dec. 5, for $645,000. Built in 2007, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 2,903 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $222.18. The home at 8749 The Esplanade, No. 3, Orlando, sold Dec. 8, for $425,000. Built in 2006, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 2,162 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $196.58. The condo at 8761 The Esplanade, No. 11, Orlando, sold Dec. 5, for $397,500. Built in 2004, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,824 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $217.93.
WINDERMERE HEIGHTS
The home at 8420 Sunset Drive, Orlando, sold Dec. 5, for $425,000. Built in 1985, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,868 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $148.19.
METROWEST CENTRAL PARK CONDOMINIUMS
HAMPTONS
The home at 1387 Shelter Rock Road, Orlando, sold Dec. 8, for $300,000. Built in 1993, it has four bedrooms, threeand-one-half baths, a pool and 2,718 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $110.38. The condo at 3406 Soho St., No. 102, Orlando, sold Dec. 5, for $110,000. Built in 2000, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,260 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $87.30.
ORLO VISTA TERRACE
The home at 32 N. Normandale Ave., Orlando, sold Dec. 08, for $82,000. Built in 1982, it has three bedrooms, one bath and 1,132 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $72.44.
STONEBRIDGE LAKES
The town house at 3497 Shallot Drive, No. 101, Orlando, sold Dec. 10, for $180,000. Built in 2004, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,665 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $108.11.
STONEBRIDGE RESERVE
The condo at 6130 Westgate Drive, No. 104, Orlando, sold Dec. 5, for $67,500. Built in 1988, it has two bedrooms,
The home at 3344 Robert Trent Jones Drive, No. 304, Orlando, sold Dec. 5, for $150,000. Built in 2008, it has three bedrooms, two baths
Michael Eng
This Oakland home, which has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,622 square feet of living area, sold for $305,000. and 1,447 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $103.66.
pool and 2,547 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $143.31.
VENTURA AT STONEBRIDGE COMMONS
MONTVERDE
The condo at 2484 San Tecla St., No. 307, Orlando, sold Dec. 5, for $115,000. Built in 2005, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,112 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $103.42.
WOODLANDS VILLAGE
The home at 7125 Wooded Village Lane, Orlando, sold Dec. 10, for $365,000. Built in 1986, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths, a
MONTVERDE
The home at 17620 Broad St., Montverde, sold Dec. 11, for $340,000. Built in 1940, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 2,552 square feet of living area on 1.52 acres. The price per square foot is $133.23.
OAKLAND OAKLAND
The home at 250 N. Walker St., Oakland, sold Dec. 5,
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for $305,000. Built in 2000, it has three bedrooms, twoand-one-half baths and 2,622 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $116.32. The home at 632 Strihal Loop, Oakland, sold Dec. 5, for $247,000 (REO/bank owned). Built in 2001, it has four bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,311 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $106.88.
four-and-one-half baths and 3,847 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $90.72.
OAKLAND PARK
The home at 924 Kershaw Drive, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 9, for $280,000. Built in 2013, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,990 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $140.70.
OVERSTREET CRATE
OCOEE
The home at 106 W. Story Road, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 10, for $25,000 (REO/ bank owned). Built in 1924, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,249 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $20.02.
FOREST OAKS
The home at 403 Tranquille Oaks Drive, Ocoee, sold Dec. 5, for $140,000. Built in 1986, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,371 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $102.12.
STONE CREEK
The home at 15228 Quailmoor St., Winter Garden, sold Dec. 6, for $250,000. Built in 2002, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths, a pool and 2,291 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $109.12.
FORESTBROOKE
The home at 3313 Atmore Terrace, Ocoee, sold Dec. 8, for $240,000. Built in 2006, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,494 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $96.23.
SAWMILL
The home at 5005 Mill Stream Road, Ocoee, sold Dec. 10, for $125,000 (REO/bank owned). Built in 1990, it has three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 1,548 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $80.75.
SILVER BEND
The home at 2396 Alclobe Circle, Ocoee, sold Dec. 5, for $215,000. Built in 1994, it has three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 2,055 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $104.62.
TWIN LAKES MANOR
The home at 1218 Russell Drive, Ocoee, sold Dec. 11, for $85,300 (REO/bank owned). Built in 1982, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,355 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $62.95.
WESMERE
The home at 2204 Blackjack Oak St., Ocoee, sold Dec. 5, for $278,000. Built in 1997, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,582 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $107.67.
WEST ORANGE BAY HILL VILLAGE
The home at 8927 Savannah Park, Orlando, sold Dec. 5, for $390,000. Built in 1982, it has three bedrooms, twoand-one-half baths and 2,442 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $159.81.
KEENE’S POINTE
The home at 1105 Maxey Drive, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 10, for $48,000. Built in 1964, it has three bedrooms, one bath and 1,132 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $42.40.
The town house at 10144 Fallsgrove St., Orlando, sold Dec. 9, for $215,000. Built in 2008, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,578 square feet. The price per square foot is $136.25.
LAKEVIEW HEIGHTS
The home at 146 Mileham Drive, Orlando, sold Dec. 10, for $532,204 (REO/bank owned). Built in 2006, it has five bedrooms, four-and-onehalf baths, a pool and 5,507 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $96.64. The home at 342 Mileham Drive, Orlando, sold Dec. 10, for $380,000. Built in 1988, it has three bedrooms, two-andone-half baths, a pool and 3,078 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $123.46.
MABEL BRIDGE
The home at 11708 Verrazano Drive, Orlando, sold Dec. 8, for $302,250. Built in 2012, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,277 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $132.74.
NEWBURY PARK
The town house at 8496 Leeland Archer Blvd., Orlando, sold Dec. 5, for $213,000. Built in 2007, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 1,512 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $140.87.
WINDERMERE BUTLER RIDGE
The home at 5028 Autumn Ridge Lane, Windermere, sold Dec. 5, for $360,000. Built in 1989, it has four bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,256 square feet of living area on one acre. The price per square foot is $159.57.
ESTATES AT WINDERMERE
The home at 2352 Ridgewind Way, Windermere, sold Dec. 8, for $525,000. Built in 1998, it has four bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,870
The home at 11330 S. Camden Commons Drive, Windermere, sold Dec. 10, for $680,000. Built in 2005, it has four bedrooms, four baths, a pool and 3,562 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $190.90. The home at 6104 Keene’s Pointe Drive, Windermere, sold Dec. 5, for $630,000. Built in 2004, it has five bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 3,322 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $189.64.
LAKE SAWYER SOUTH
The home at 8117 Jailene Drive, Windermere, sold Dec. 11, for $315,000. Built in 2012, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,189 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $143.90. The home at 13218 Charfield St., Windermere, sold Dec. 11, for $267,250. Built in 2009, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,211 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $120.87.
BELLE MEADE
The home at 15164 Serenade Drive, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 8, for $410,000. Built in 2009, it has six bedrooms, five baths and 5,054 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $81.12.
CHAPIN STATION
The home at 1224 Hunterman Lane, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 5, for $208,000 (REO/ bank owned). Built in 2005, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,808 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $115.04.
CORSINO PLACE
The home at 1336 Corsino
The home at 703 Bellshire Way, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 10, for $285,500. Built in 2008, it has three bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,409 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $118.51.
J W F BRAY FIRST ADDITION
The home at 47 Oak St., Winter Garden, sold Dec. 11, for $17,000 (REO/bank owned). Built in 1934, it has two bedrooms, one bath and 748 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $22.73.
LAKE COVE POINTE
The home at 433 Lone Heron Way, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 5, for $349,000. Built in 2013, it has five bedrooms,
Pat Sharr Realty
407-656-7947 MultiMillion Dollar Producer
OASIS COVE
The condo at 14137 Oasis Cove Blvd., No. 203, Windermere, sold Dec. 5, for $166,000. Built in 2007, it has two bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,467 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $113.16.
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SUBURBAN SHORES
The home at 13119 S. Sunset Terrace, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 5, for $240,000. Built in 1993, it has four bedrooms, two baths, two half-baths, a pool and 2,203 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $108.94.
WESTFIELD LAKES
The home at 358 Blue Stone Circle, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 8, for $312,000. Built in 1997, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,830 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $110.25.
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The home at 2663 Grapevine Crest, Ocoee, sold Dec. 5, for $209,000 (REO/bank owned). Built in 2003, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,575 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $81.17.
GRANDVIEW ISLES
BAY STREET PARK
St., Winter Garden, sold Dec. 8, for $181,000 (REO/bank owned). Built in 1994, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,759 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $102.90.
LD
ORCHARD PARK
WINTER GARDEN
The home at 15412 Amberbeam Blvd., Winter Garden, sold Dec. 11, for $223,000. Built in 2001, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,484 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $150.27. The home at 15142 Masthead Landing Circle, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 5, for $205,000 (REO/bank owned). Built in 2004, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,886 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $108.70.
SO
The home at 322 Little Aspen Court, Ocoee, sold Dec. 10, for $69,000 (REO/bank owned). Built in 1981, it has three bedrooms, one bath and 1,225 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $56.33.
square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $182.93.
STONEYBROOK WEST
SUMMERPORT
The home at 4760 Blue Major Drive, Windermere, sold Dec. 10, for $266,750. Built in 2006, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,871 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $92.91.
WINDERMERE DOWNS
The home at 1725 Woody Drive, Windermere, sold Dec. 11, for $440,000. Built in 1987, it has four bedrooms, twoand-one-half baths, a pool and 2,647 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $166.23.
PUT THIS ON YOUR CHRISTMAS LIST!!! 4.76 ACRES, THE VALUE IS IN THE LAND IT HAS ROAD FRONTAGE ON OCOEE-APOPKA ROAD IN OCOEE. THE CURRENT ZONING IS AGRICULTURAL A-1, YOU CAN CHANGE IT TO COMMERICAL ZONING FOR YOUR NEEDS!!! THIS WOULD MAKE A GREAT PLACE FOR FAST FOOD, OFFICE BUILDING, GARAGE OR CONVENIENT STORE. The property currently has 3 homes on it, one of the homes is a fixer-upper with wood frame construction. The other 2 homes are block, address at 411 is a 3 bdrm., 1 ba. split bedroom plan, livingroom, eat-in kitchen, familyroom and 1 car garage and is move in condition.The other block home is a rental. Asking $1,600,000.
GATED COMMUNITY-LAKE ACCESS!!!
This is a dream come true!!! Gated Community/Lake Access!!! Gorgeous 2-story with master bedroom on the first floor!!! Step into this impressive dramatic 2 story foyer. Formal living room with plenty of room for big comfortable chairs & sofa, spacious but intimate dinning room, entertain in uncrowded comfort in the spacious family room with surround sound! Laundry room and half bath. Eat-in kitchen complete with island, desk and french doors leading to the LARGE screened lanai and spa. Upstairs you will find the loft perfect for a playroom, office or study area!!! There are also 3 bedrooms, 2 baths and the media room that features a large screen, comfortable chairs and everything needed to watch your favorite movie. Easy access to turnpike, 429, 408 and the West Orange Trail!!! Asking Only $325,000.00
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MEADOWS
baths and 2,648 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $103.47.
PE SA ND LE IN G!
The home at 116 Olympus Drive, Ocoee, sold Dec. 10, for $574,400. Built in 1999, it has seven bedrooms, five-andone-half baths, a pool and 5,823 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $98.64.
Courtesy photo
This Keene’s Pointe home, which sold for $1.28 million, features five bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths, a pool and 4,906 square feet of living area.
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BELLE MEADE
The home at 15452 Firelight Drive, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 5, for $274,000 (REO/ bank owned). Built in 2006, it has four bedrooms, three
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Prime downtown location, this is a great business oportunity for you!!! Currently zoned R-NC (residential neighborhood commercial). The value of this property is in the land and not the home. The home is a 2 bedroom, 1 bath, living and dining room according to Orange County records it was built in 1941. Asking only $499,000.
WHAT IS YOUR OFFER???
3 Bdrm. 2Ba. CHARMING, COMFORTABLE AND COZY!!! Corner lot with stately trees for plenty of shade, fenced yard, house freshly painted. Open floor plan, split bdrms, foyer, formal dining, eat-in kitchen. All the appliances stay, including range, refrigerator, dishwasher and microwave. Living/great room has a beautiful brick wood burning fireplace, sliding glass doors, 36x12 screened lanai, open paver patio 15x13. Metal storage shed and privacy fenced yard. Move in ready! MOTIVATED SELLER! Asking only $144,000
J SO US LD T !
LAKE OLYMPIA
5B
PICTURESQUE COUNTRY!!! JUST REDUCED!!!
3 bdrm. 2 Ba. Beauty in Winter Garden!!! This home is situated on a picturesque 1 acre lot fenced yard and gate. Very unique, country atmosphere with shopping only minutes away and access to 429, Turnpike and 408. You will be amazed at the beauty and the surroundings. Walk up the steps and enter the 2nd floor of this gorgeous home with stone fireplace in the living room, formal dining, kitchen w/stainless steel applances, wood cabinets, quartz countertops, 2 bedrooms, bath and laundry room. The 3rd level is the master bedroom, master bath and loft. The home is in pristine condition a pampered beauty...If you have been looking for a home without an HOA, look no further, you need to see this!!! Asking only $299,000.
SANTAS FIRST STOP!!!!
This 3 bdrm.1Ba. Cute as a button, and ready to move-in. Completely remodeled. New doors and windows, new drywall with foam insulation, new wood cabinets, all appliances stay, refrigerator, dishwasher, microwave! Laminate flooring throughout, all electric and plumbing has been replaced, new front and back porch ... Completely painted inside and out. Ideal for a first time home buyer or someone wanting to down size. Fantastic location...Walk to downtown, walk/ride the West Orange Trail... ***No HOA *** corner lot*** if you have been looking for a home in Winter Garden with a great location this is it! Don’t delay, see it today!!! Asking only $175,000
6B
WOTimes.com
WEST ORANGE TIMES
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2014
WEST ORANGE TIMES
WOTimes.com
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2014
RAIN
WEST ORANGE
(INCHES)
WEATHER
TUES.
Dec. 9
0.01
WED.
TEMPERATURES
Dec. 10
0.00
Thurs., Dec. 18 Fri., Dec. 19 Sat., Dec. 20 Sun., Dec. 21 Mon., Dec. 22 Tues., Dec. 23 Wed., Dec. 24
THURS. Dec. 11
0.00
FRI.
Dec. 12
0.00
SAT.
Dec. 13
0.00
SUN.
Dec. 14
0.00
MON.
Dec. 15
0.00
DEC.
TO DATE 0.32
HIGH 70 73 78 69 70 70 68
SUNRISE/SUNSET TIMES Thurs., Dec. 18 Fri., Dec. 19 Sat., Dec. 20 Sun., Dec. 21 Mon., Dec. 22 Tues., Dec. 23 Wed., Dec. 24
SUNRISE 7:13 a.m. 7:13 a.m. 7:14 a.m. 7:14 a.m. 7:15 a.m. 7:15 a.m. 7:16 a.m.
FRI.
SAT.
SUNSET 5:32 p.m. 5:33 p.m. 5:33 p.m. 5:34 p.m. 5:34 p.m. 5:35 p.m. 5:35 p.m.
LOW 47 55 58 50 56 62 50
MOON PHASES
Dec. 6
Dec. 14
SUN.
(2013: .06) Dec. 21
YEAR
TO DATE
41.97 (2013: 49.87)
7B
HIGH
HIGH
HIGH
LOW
LOW
LOW
73
78
55
58
69
Dec. 28
I WO
Who says we don’t get fall colors? Winter Garden resident Stephanie Berry sent us this beautiful shot proving otherwise. The West Orange Times & Observer is hosting the weekly contest, and winners will have their photograph featured and receive a $20 prize. To enter, email your photo, along with your name and city and a caption, to aqrhode@wotimes.com; put “I Love West Orange” in the subject line. Winners can pick up their prize at the Times office.
50
A PC PUZZLE
By Richard D. Ellis | Edited by Timothy E. Parker ACROSS 1 Lipton and Twinings, e.g. 5 Insect phase 10 One of the Golden Horde 15 Big blowout 19 Bridge toll unit 20 Bishop’s assistant 21 Marks in ancient manuscripts 22 “Do ___ others as ...” 23 Game with hits 25 Place for low-priority items 27 Walloped, old-style 28 Cold-cuts emporium 29 Covered with soot 30 Some tides 31 Running behind schedule 33 Not naughty 35 Jab, for most boxers 37 Unable to appreciate the symphony 41 And so forth (Abbr.) 42 Kind of walk 46 State firmly 47 Skin cream additive 49 Some beans 52 Haberdashery accessory 53 Astronomer’s unit of distance 55 Hilo souvenir 57 One pointing at a target 59 Price marker 60 “Why, ___ be a pleasure!” 61 Cook’s staple 65 Cotton plant capsule 66 Abbr. next to a telephone number 67 Con ___ (vivaciously) 68 Snoozed 69 Dentist’s request 70 Paving block 71 KFC leavings 72 Computer desktop feature 74 Bike with an engine
77 79 80 83 84 86 87 88 89 90 92 94 97 99 100 101 103 105 107 108 109 112 114 117 121 123 125 126 127 128 129 130 131 132
Word with “Water” or “standard” Bargelike boat Hank’s “King of the Hill” wife Release, as an odor “I do” ends it Orthodontists’ org. Lao-tzu’s “way” Physical strength Formerly known as Lecture hall Involve by necessity Alexandra’s husband Hindu sacred text Competition for the swift Dress with a tight bodice Accomplished Cash for incidentals African antelope “Get out of here, fly!” “Go no further!” Raspberry drupelets Sewing-machine inventor Hawaiian guitars, for short Beast of burden Gen Xer’s parent Sans hat Cup part “All kidding ___ ...” Threesome Grandma Tosses in Appraised Dele revokers Percussion instrument
DOWN 1 Checks in a bar 2 Final, e.g. 3 A chorus line? 4 People from the Mayflower, e.g. 5 “If ___ told you once ...” 6 Bridge boo-boo
SUDOKU PACIFIC Complete the grid so that every row, column and 3x3 box contains every digit from 1 to 9 inclusively.
7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 24 26 32 34 36 37 38 39 40 43 44 45 48 50 51 54 56 58 62 63 64 65 69 70 71 73 74 75
Have a yearning Olympic champion Devers Live-forever plant Cigarette filling Insult badly “Ramblin’ Wreck From Georgia ___” Type of hydrocarbon group BBQ serving Lab liquid measurer “___ and the King of Siam” Flight segment ___ d’oeuvre X-ray shield material Like life Small table on wheels Word often given an incorrect apostrophe Go inside Animal with a snout Like Humpty Dumpty Jocks’ antitheses System of numbering pages Author Sinclair Money in Iran Author Madeleine L’___ Suffix for “Hallow” Harsh cries “Them” or “us” Abated Look the other way Spanish doctor Knapsack Committee Unit of gene activity Storage space Behaving like a ruffian On Easy Street Money from Thailand Antifreeze, e.g. Allotted (with “out”) Sultanate citizen
© 2013 Universal Uclick
76 78 79 80 81 82 84 85 88 91 93
Peter’s Russian cousin? Genuine, in Germany Wool-coat owners Joyous hymn Bring forth Tasting like wild meat Crystal of Hollywood Accelerate, as an engine Central vein of a leaf Arable place Assumed names
95 96 98 102 104 106
Clung ___ de Janeiro Refusal to conform Doesn’t quite believe Burrowing animal Language with click consonants 107 Like a member of 109-Across 109 “Fernando” singers 110 Ace or deuce
111 “What am ___?” (auction query) 113 Fail to mention 115 Go-___ 116 One of the Great Lakes 118 Month on the Hebrew calendar 119 Waiter’s handout 120 First man 122 Paddle kin 124 “For ___ a jolly ...”
C RY P T O G R A M S 1 . E F E H Z D J N D H E J M E A E V D H T D H D A H E W W S J W E T E O E A I B N N K D S H ABRSJDRRDR. “S’L KELLDHSJW NKD
F I L Z D N S N S I J ,” R E S M N K D F E H Z D J N D H .
“ L E OA D ,” R E S M N K D A E V D H , A B N S ’ L
EGTEOR HIGGSJW SJ MIBWK!”
2 . F U Y D U ’ F Q B E Q F I U Y D Q A U Y Q I , X G C Q A M F D M Y V Z M F J Q A K G L AQ F O C M T D M G Y. D J Q S K Z V V B Q A X U Y S G T D M G Y F, Q E Q Y D Z U B B S F Q D D B M Y V G Y ” F Z L G C A M Y U D Q O B U Z F Q F.”
8B
WEST ORANGE TIMES
WOTimes.com
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2014
Here's My Card BUSINESS DIRECTORY
Bill Straugh
JP TREES AND LANDSCAPING, LLC
Broker Associate
Tree Trimming, Tree Removal, Landscape Installs FREE Estimates
Cell 407-716-3010
John Freeman
Plumbing Problems?
Owner/Operator
5/15/15
Call 407-905-0014
cell: 321-229-1958
Licensed and Insured
email: jptrees09@gmail.com
CFC 056690
TFN
Windsor Realty Group, Inc. 160 S. Main Street Winter Garden, FL 34787 407-877-FIND (3463) TFN
CRAWFORD TIRE SERVICE, INC.
2/5/15
TFN
110 Taylor St. • Ocoee • (407) 656-4575
MORE THAN JUST
TIRE VALUES
-FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED –
• Bridgetone • Michelin • Toyo • BFG Tires
407.296.9622 407.877.6268
www.gsairsystems.com email: gsairsystems@cfl.rr.com Licensed & Insured - State License #CAC1814407
• Quality • Service • Sales • Installation • Commercial • Residential M/WBE Enterprise since 1980
407.656.8920
We offer financing with approved credit
Winter Garden Grassing Inc.
• •
Bobby Swindle, Jr. Owner
Call for a FREE estimate on Equipment Replacement.
SOD
• ALIGNMENT • BRAKES • SHOCKS • OIL & LUBE SERVICE • NEW & USED TIRES • REPAIR & BALANCING • ROAD SERVICE • WE INSTALL LIFTS!
Licensed & Bonded Licensed #RC29027533
MV03215
Mobil 1 Oil
FREE ESTIMATES
12/25/14
Amsoil Synthetic 2/12/15
FIRE TECH
EXTINGUISHER
SERVICE
Ph: 407-877-0709
Commercial Seeding and Sodding
Ocoee, FL
Danny Motes
• Residential Pick Up and Delivery
• Pine Straw • Seed • Bahia • St. Augustine • Bermuda • Zoysia • St. Augustine, Zoysia and Bahia by the piece
Cell 407-466-4738 Tel 407-654-2395 Fax 407-654-2986
532 N. Bluford Ave, Ocoee, FL 34761 www.WinterGardenGrassing.com
TFN
4/30/15
Branch Manager
Residential • Commercial • Tile • Metal
1081 9th Street Winter Garden, FL 34787
10% OFF your rental
(407) 654-9516 Office (407) 491-0355 Mobile (407) 654-0145 Fax pcm050@sunbeltrentals.com
407.614.5962
Keith Keller
Email: keithksj@cfl.rr.com Ocoee, FL 34761
sunbeltrentals.com
TRAYWICK'S GARAGE
TFN
www.Firetechextinguisher.com
Travis Hamric
Mention this ad for
TFN
TFN
President CCC1325778
& Service, Inc.
1045 S. Vineland Rd. •Winter Garden • New and Used Tires • Alignment • Complete Auto Repair • A/C Serv. & More
"Your Complete Service Center" 10 West Story Rd. Winter Garden, FL 34787 TFN
407-656-1817
REG# MV-01095
Phone (407) 656-6646
Richard Hudson • Reggie Hudson
TFN
Obamacare and Medicare Open Enrollment 2014
Temporary Coverage Is Available If You Qualify
$
75
00 COMPLETE OIL SERVICE
With service message reset. Full synthetic (up to 7 quarts) and oil filter.
Offer expires 12/31/14. Environmental, disposal fees and tax not included. Not valid with any other offer. This ad must be presented to receive this offer.
TO SCHEDULE AN APPT. TODAY CALL US AT
407-877-3841
TFN
Let Suzy Help You Today!
Call 1-877-ASK-OIG1 Suzy Becerra, R.N. Health Insurance Agent
Suzy has been a Registered Nurse for 25 years and a Professional Health Agent for over 14 years. Put Suzy and her expertise to work for you today. Call us toll-free or visit us online at
OrlandoInsuranceGroup.com
and click on “ASK NURSE SUZY” 0112015
Phone: 407-877-3841 Email: highlinecarsalesinc@gmail.com
· Are You Confused About Obamacare or Medicare Coverage and Cost? · Are You Losing Your Health Coverage? · Do You Need Temporary Coverage? · Are You Turning Age 65 Soon? · Is Your COBRA Coverage Expiring?
We are your European/Foreign car auto Repair/Sales alternative dealer. FL Agent Lic# D047115
FL Agency Lic# L070497
WEST ORANGE TIMES
WOTimes.com
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2014
Classifieds 010 ANNOUNCEMENTS Bahia Shrine Bingo every Wednesday. Bingo Open to the Public! Proceeds support the Bahia Shrine Center, Orlando, FL. Starting at 5:30 PM. Smoke free room, Free coffee, Free Spaghetti for Players the last Wednesday. Call 407-660-8811 for information. 12/25bk
035 SCHOOLS AND INSTRUCTION Transfer Eligible College Credits! Finish Your Degree Online! Financial Aid to those who qualify. Placement Assistance. Email transcript to startnow@sctrain.edu or call 800852-0595. 12/18fcan
090 MISCELLANEOUS Photos and professional looking ads posted on Craigslist. Five separate ads $99 total. Don 425-3414444 12/18dc
130 MEDICAL Attention Viagra Users! VIAGRA 100mg, CIALIS 20mg. 40 pills + 4 FREE for only $99. No Prescription Needed! Discreet Shipping, Call Now 1-800-224-0305 12/18fcan
FLIGHT Attendant CAREERS start here- We will help you land the job and prepare for training by the airlines. Five information packed days in Orlando. Call AIM to learn more 855-879-4538. fcan 12/18 AIRLINE CAREERS Start Here - Get FAA certified with hands on training in Aviation Maintenance. Financial aid for qualified students. Job placement assistance. Call AIM 866-3145838 fcan12/18 ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE/DISPATCH CLERK needed for HVAC Company in west Orlando. Part-time with reliable transportation. Efficient with Microsoft word and excel. Fax resume to 407-292-9888 or email to susanactionair@aol.com 12/18sm Johnson's Wrecker Service Inc., is hiring fulltime night wrecker drivers and day transport drivers. Call for details 407-293-2540. 1/1jw We are a Homeownerís Association in Winter Garden searching for a maintenance/irrigation worker. The position is part-time between 20-25 hours per week. The starting pay is $10.00 and there are no benefits. Irrigation experience is required. English is also required. Anyone interested, please call the office at 407656-5106 to arrange for an interview appointment. 12/18wt Foodgrade tanker company. Full time. Mileage, Detention & Drop Pay. Full Benefits. 401(k) Sign on Bonus. Incentive Program. Regular runs to the Midwest. Out 2 Weeks. CDL-A OtteryTransportation.com 800-5696816 Dan ext. 224 12/18fcan
Driver Trainees Needed NOW! Become a driver for Werner Enterprises. Earn $800 per week! Local CDL Training. 1-877-214-3624. fcan12/18
Early Ad Dealine for the 12/25 and the 12/31 issues will be Friday, Dec. 19 at 2:00 PM. See our Classifieds online at wotimes.com
Dispatcher for Trucking Company. Must be Professional and Flexible Great Pay & Benefits. Pd. Vac & 6-Holidays. 3yrs Exp. Computer Skills. Microsoft Excel a plus. Knowledge of dispatching programs CDL-A a plus. Fax Resume: 312-275-7726 12/25pd High School Art Teacher Montverde Academy is accepting applications for a full-time teaching position that includes five sections of studio art and one section of AP Art History. Strong candidates will have a graduate degree in the field, experience teaching AP classes, and/or experience serving as an AP Reader. For more information or to apply, visit our website at montverde.org/employment and click on job board. 12/25gh
200 ITEMS FOR SALE
5 Kitchens, 2 Autos, 14 Riding Toys, 2 Wagons, 20 Strollers, 6 Walkers, Carseats. Babylady 407-731-4248 12/25bl
BATTERIES 13178 W. Colonial Dr
407-656-3495
Winter Garden
620 APARTMENT & DUPLEXES
WINTER GARDEN - 1BR $695, 2BR $745, 3BR $935 on Lake Apopka. Water/Sewer included. 407-656-7162. 9/25tfn
50 cent to $1 burp pads/bottles/ blankets for baby dolls. Highchair $19.95, 25 cent Children's Clothes. Babylady 407-731-4248 12/25bl Garage Sale This Friday, December 19th from 7am - 1pm. Home goods, bedroom items, construction supplies, Ping Pong Table, Furniture and more. 14052 Lake Tilden Blvd, Winter Garden. 12/18jc Yard Sale - Friday 9-3, Saturday 8-2. 116 W Division St, Winter Garden. Assorted Household Items, Exotic Bird Cage, Aquariums, Christmas, & More. 12/18sa
FOUND CAT - Small Orange Cat with 4 White Paws. Call Anna 407-6568223 12/25ar
350 VEHICLE
240 GARAGE SALE
SCRAP
50% off Children's Christmas Clothes, Playpen $24.95, Double Stroller $24.95, Stroller/Carseat $24.95 Babylady 407-731-4248 12/25bl
300 PETS
Two Person Mausoleum at Woodlawn. Beautiful section in court yard, behind Life of Christ Mosaic. Need to sell, negotiable price. Burial places, vaults, marker included. Call Ruth 407-832-2732 1/1rc
NOW PURCHASING
160 GENERAL EMPLOYMENT
9B
2006 SUZUKI BOULEVARD 1400cc. Runs Perfect, Looks Great. Many Extras. $4,000. 407-921-6716 12/18pb
S.E. Dollen, LLC.
Winter Garden longest established electrical contractor serving Central FL since 1983. All Service Techs are LICENSED Journeymen and Master Electricians. For professional results and competitive rates
call 407-656-5818
EC 13001719
The City of Winter Garden is currently seeking applicants for various positions
To advertise in CLASSIFIEDS call
407-656-2121 or email
classifieds @wotimes.com Ad Deadline Tuesdays 10am
Job descriptions and applications are available online.
www.wintergarden-fl.gov Phone: Fax:
407-656-4111
407-877-2795
The City of Winter Garden is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
This week’s Crossword answers
CHURCH DIRECTORY BAPTIST FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 125 E Plant St., Winter Garden 407-656-2352 Sundays 8:30 am Traditional 9:45 am Bible Study 11:00 am Contemporary Awana - Wednesdays - 6pm Pastor Tim Grosshans www.fbcwg.org 2nd Campus:
“FOUNDATION WORSHIP”
Sundays 9:45 am - All Ages at Foundation Academy High School 15304 Tilden Road - Winter Garden www.FoundationWorship.com 407.730.1867
STARKE LAKE BAPTIST CHURCH
611 West. Ave., Ocoee Pastor Jeff Pritchard (407) 656-2351 Email: starkelakebaptist@gmail.com
CATHOLIC RESURRECTION CATHOLIC CHURCH
1211 Winter Garden-Vineland Rd. Winter Garden. 407-656-3113
CHRISTIAN WEST ORANGE CHURCH OF CHRIST 1450 Daniels Road Winter Garden 407-656-2770 www.cocwo.com
2014
To advertise in the Church Directory call 407-656-2121 or email rblankenship@wotimes.com CHURCH OF GOD OCOEE CHURCH OF GOD
Pastor Thomas Odom 1105 N. Lakewood Avenue, Ocoee 407-656-8011
EPISCOPAL CHURCH OF THE MESSIAH 241 N. Main, Winter Garden Services: 8, 9:30, & 11am, 7pm www.churchofthemessiah.com
CHURCH OF THE ASCENSION
4950 S. Apopka-Vineland Rd. Orlando Sun.Serv 8:30am, 10:30am, 6:30pm. 407876-3480 www.ascension-orlando.org
METHODIST FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
125 N. Lakeview Ave Winter Garden Service Times: 9:00 AM & 11:15 AM Blue Christmas Service: Dec. 21, 4pm Christmas Eve Services: 5, 7 & 11pm www.fumcwg.org 407-656-1135
PRESBYTERIAN PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF THE LAKES, USA
Conroy-Windermere Rd. @ Lincoln Ave. Sunday School 9:00AM, Worship 10:30 407-291-2886 Worship on Wed. 7:00 - 7:30 PM “Come hear the Gospel” Rev. Ferdinand Brits www.pcol.org
UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST WINDERMERE UNION CHURCH 10710 Park Ridge-Gotha Rd. Windermere, FL 34786 407-876-2112 Worship times: 9:00am Adult Sunday School 10:00am Worship www.windermereunion.org
10B
WOTimes.com
WEST ORANGE TIMES
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2014