02.01.18 West Orange Times & Observer

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

Observer Celebrating more than 110 years in West Orange

YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD. FREE

VOLUME 85, NO. 5

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2018

Complete team effort NFL players lend superstar power to annual First and Goal Gala. PAGE 7 .

MAGICAL EVENING

West Orange Chamber shows off new tricks at its Big Orange Awards.

SEE PAGE 10

YOUR TOWN

Brought back to life

OAKLAND TO DEDICATE PARK The town of Oakland is holding a dedication ceremony of VanderLey Park in honor of the late Jon VanderLey, former Oakland mayor, and the community is invited to the event.

The ceremony begins at 10 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 3, at the park, 117 E. Gulley Ave., Oakland. RSVP to vgibbons@oaklandfl.gov or (407) 656-1117, Ext. 2105.

New Maxey zones will affect three other schools

SEE PAGE 6

REAL ESTATE

Winter Garden explores options for Windermere, Roberson intersection

TIE

Gabby Baquero

From left: Connor Heiskell, Lt. Colin McCormick, Irene Simon, Alex Simon, Lt. Tom Smothers, Bronson Fernandez and Juan Rivera met for the first time at the Ocoee Fire Rescue Award Cermony held Thursday, Jan. 25at the Ocoee Lakeshore Center.

BLACK

Irene Simon was clinically dead, until Ocoee firefighters Tom Smothers, Colin McCormick, Juan Rivera, Bronson Fernandez and Connor Heiskell arrived on scene last November.

SEE STORY ON PAGE 4

As many as 358 elementary students will have to report to different schools if they aren’t granted a “grandfathered transfer.”

City leaders are considering adding a traffic light at the intersection of Windermere and Roberson roads in place of a roundabout.

GABBY BAQUERO NEWS EDITOR

The city has been gathering construction and engineering estimates to improve traffic flow at the intersection of Windermere and Roberson Roads, north of Lake Whitney Elementary School.

WINTER GARDEN

Homebuilder Toll Brothers welcomed Lakeshore residents to their new amenity center. PAGE 21.

City Manager Mike Bollhoefer said the city will be meeting with Orange County officials this week to begin discussions about potential improvements to the intersection. However, the cost to construct a roundabout there — as Winter Garden residents SEE COSTS PAGE 4

WINDERMERE WINE & DINE

The sold-out event satiated appetites.

SEE PAGE 9

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YOUR CALENDAR

THURSDAY, FEB. 1

BUILDER’S BARBECUE 5:30 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 1, at the West Orange Habitat for Humanity ReStore showroom, 13369 W. Colonial Drive, Orlando. Builders are invited to this construction industry mingle as Habitat reveals plans for the newest affordable-home project, Green Oaks Row. To register, eventbrite.com/e/builders-barbeque-construction-industrymingle-tickets-41969615249.

The event is free.

FRIDAY, FEB. 2

FRIDAYS ON THE PLAZA 7 to 9 p.m. Friday, Feb. 2, at the gazebo on Plant Street in downtown Winter Garden. Enjoy Grimes Alley as they perform blues, country and acoustic unplugged. (407) 656-4111.

SUNDAY, FEB. 4

BIRDS OF PREY ID FIELD TRIP 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 4, along the Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive, 2803 Lust Road, Apopka. Join Bob Sand-

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2018

ers and the Orange Audubon Society in the drive’s restoration area. Birders can enhance their ability to identify raptors using a holistic approach. Cost is $5 for Audubon members, $10 for others. Meet at the Lust Road entrance. (407) 454-0542.

THURSDAY, FEB. 8

VALENTINE FAMILY EVENT 5:30 to 6:15 p.m. at the Winter Garden Art Association’s SoBo Gallery, 127 S. Boyd St., Winter Garden. Families of all ages are invited to create a Valentine’s Day art project with art educator Lenore Eastham. Cost is $12 per project. RSVP at wgart.org or (407) 347-7996.

WEST ORANGE REPUBLICAN WOMEN FEDERATED MEETING 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 8, at the West Orange Country Club, 3300 W. Orange Country Club Drive, Winter Garden. The guest speaker is from American For Prosperity, and the topic is School Choice.

Lunch is $20.

RSVP to Rebecca Mellen at rebec-

OUR TOUGHNESS IS YOUR STRENGTH.

catmellen@gmail.com or (407) 230-5968.

FRIDAY, FEB. 9

LIFT DISABILITY NETWORK BREAKAWAY WINTER RETREAT 3 p.m. Friday, Feb. 9, to noon Sunday, Feb. 11, at the Life Enrichment Retreat Center, 4991 Picciola Road, Fruitland Park.

Lift Disability Network is a nonprofit committed to supporting the interdependence of people and families with disabilities.

The retreat provides a weekend getaway, where volunteers give personalized attention to each family with activities, relaxation and spiritual renewal. Cost is $149 for adults and $99 for children. For information, to register or to volunteer, visit liftdisability. net/winter-retreat.

NIGHT TO SHINE 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, Feb. 9, at First Baptist Church Windermere, 300 Main St. More than 500 churches around the world are hosting this prom event, sponsored by the Tim Tebow Foundation. People ages 14 and older with special needs are invited to this complimentary red-carpet night, which includes limousine rides, a catered dinner, karaoke and prom favors. Each guest is crowned king or queen of the prom, too. myfbcw. com/specialneeds.

SATURDAY, FEB. 10

SEVENTH ANNUAL WINTER GARDEN BLUES & BBQ 4 to 10 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 10, at the downtown pavilion, 104 S. Lakeview Ave., Winter Garden.

This festival pairs the hottest blues and roots musicians with award-winning local barbecue connoisseurs for a celebration of true Southern soul. Performers are Ari & The Alibis at 4 p.m., Doug Deming & The Jewel Tones at 6 p.m. and Albert Castiglia at 8 p.m. Admission is free; barbecue, beer and wine will be available for purchase. (407) 656-4111.

DEPUTY SCOTT PINE COMMUNITY PARK GRAND OPENING 10 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 10, at Deputy Scott Pine Community Park, 17199 Ficquette Road, Windermere. Orange County Mayor Teresa Jacobs and District 1 Commissioner Betsy VanderLey invite the community to the event in the park that memorializes the late Pine. RSVP to parks@ocfl.net.

SUNDAY, FEB. 11

GUNNAR BRADSHAW WIFFLE BALL TOURNAMENT 9 a.m. Sunday, Feb. 11, at West Orange High School, 1625 S. Beulah Road, Winter Garden.

Proceeds go to former Warrior Gunnar Bradshaw to help cover

medical expenses associated with his cancer. Five-player teams with four defenders and one catcher. Cost is $40 for three guaranteed games and a T-shirt. Sign up at teamorlandobaseball.com.

MONDAY, FEB. 12

1920 OCOEE MASSACRE AND BEYOND: PATHS TO TRUTH AND RECONCILIATION 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Monday, Feb. 12, at the Tom Ison Center, 1705 Adair St., Ocoee. Learn about the tragic incident of racial terror and explore its impact on local race relations, voting practices and economics.

Event includes the screening of an award-winning short film, “Ocoee: Legacy of the Election Day Massacre,” community dialogue and a panel including a local scholar, activist and historian. This is part of a larger project led by the Equal Justice Initiative and its efforts to face the history of lynchings in America. Free and open to the public.

CENTRAL FLORIDA RAILWAY HISTORICAL SOCIETY MEETING 7 p.m. Monday, Feb. 12, at the Central Florida Railroad Museum, 101 S. Boyd St., Winter Garden. Topic is “Two of the Five Railroads That Served Tavares,”

by Ken Murdock. Free. (407) 656-0559.

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2018

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Oakland police chief promotes four Steve Thomas promoted a deputy chief, a deputy director and two sergeants.

AMY QUESINBERRY COMMUNITY EDITOR

Penny the Dalmatian, a mascot for The Paw Shop in Ocoee, took a seat in an Ocoee fire truck with 3-year-old Mariah McDuffie.

Show of support M

Musician A.J. Fritscher, aka A.J. in Evolution, performed at the Debra Nix Festival.

ore than $5,000 was raised Saturday, Jan. 27, at a festival held for Franco’s Pizzeria owner Debra Nix, who is being treated for cervical cancer.

The event, held at Bill Breeze Park in Ocoee, included vendors, a long table full of raffle items, barbecue and other foods, children’s events and entertainment.

The organizers, Nikki Fosnaugh and Jessica Hardy, are planning several more fundraising events for Nix.

Family friends Jacob Badenna, left, and Robert Hurst manned the grill.

— AMY QUESINBERRY

Engineer medic Trey Littlefield and Firefighter/EMT Chad Rees.

A dinosaur dig was among the activities for children, including Olivia Thompson, who had fun climbing on the dinos.

Come find a safe haven for your soul at

Haven of Grace Bible Church Temporarily meeting at: The Stone Crest Meeting House in the Foxcrest Subdivison 13520 Foxcrest Blvd.

Winter Garden, FL 34787 Sundays at 9:30 and 10:30 am HavenOfGraceBibleChurch.com 407-952-0510

Our Mission is to: Serve the Lord and other saints Transform into the image of Christ Edify one another in love Evangelize with the Gospel of Grace Learn and apply God’s Word Together, through God’s strength, we can become spiritually strong as STEEL. Come grow with us!

Friends of Les Feldick 263903

The ribbon was filled in as funds were raised.

Four members of the Oakland Police Department have received promotions, and the Oakland Meeting Hall was packed Jan. 9 for their ceremonial pinning.

Family, friends and co-workers were present to honor John Peek, who was promoted from lieutenant to deputy chief; Stacie Quinn, former support services manager who is now deputy director of police administration; and Angela Campbell and Anthony Vitale, two corporals who were promoted to the rank of sergeant.

Police Chief Steve Thomas said there were two reasons for the promotions: the duties and responsibilities of the staff in response to upcoming development, as well as the increased population and addition of commercial properties.

“We are seeing a number of new residential developments come out of the ground, and we anticipate commercial development along State Road 50 and elsewhere as the town’s sewer system initiative continues,” Thomas said.

The operations of the department needed to be revamped, too.

“The rank structure that had been in place for years served the needs of the town before this level of development occurred,” Thomas said. “Rather than play catch up, we felt it was better to get out in front in order to provide the level of service that our residents expect and deserve.”

Thomas said the most critical rank in the department is that of sergeant, because it serves a “boots on the ground” role but also supervises other offices.

Before the promotion, there were no sergeants in the department.

Hired in 2009, Campbell is the longest-serving full-time member of the OPD. Thomas said she excels at developing relationships with people on both sides of the law. She also serves as custodian of the evidence property and coordinates the Thanksgiving basket drive and Christmas toy drive. She is the sole detective at the station.

Vitale serves as part of the K9 unit, and his partner is Chase.

“We are blessed with the police department we have in Oakland,” Mayor Kathy Stark said. “Our crime rate is extra low. The police department is an engaged department with the citizens of this town.”

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2018

Irene Simon meets her heroes “Ten years ago they would have buried her because we didn’t have the technology we have now – chilling her down to 56 degrees and the shock therapy they did to make her heart start functioning again — that didn’t exist back then. But I’m glad she’s back.

It was unbelievable.”

— Alex Simon

GABBY BAQUERO NEWS EDITOR OCOEE As someone who monitors her health with annual blood tests, flu shots and physical exams, she thought she’d see something like this coming.

But there were no warning signs for Irene Simon, a 75-year-old Ocoee resident who had a neardeath experience in late November and awoke days later in a hospital unable to recall her correct age or the current year.

Before waking up in a hospital room with no recollection of what had transpired the prior three days, Simon found herself complaining of a sore throat to her husband, Alex Simon.

Alex, 82, went to the drugstore to pick up some throat lozenges.

But when he returned, his wife said she thought she should go to the hospital.

It took about two minutes for her husband to put their three dogs away and lock the door behind him, but when he turned around, he found her lying down on her side on the concrete of their driveway with the car door open, her eyes open and her cell phone by her hand.

Alex immediately called 911 for help. As the fire trucks neared, he screamed to get their attention and let them get to work once they arrived. He watched as the Ocoee firefighters – Tom Smothers, Colin McCormick, Juan Rivera, Bronson Fernandez and Con-

nor Heiskell – used electroshock therapy to revive his wife.

“I just broke down into pieces,” he said. “I didn’t calm down until an older gentleman sat me down in the fire truck to tell me everything would be OK. What happened to her is that she was dead until they shocked her. She must have been dead for at least 10 to 15 minutes. So you’re looking at a person that would have been buried. Ten years ago, she would be under the ground. So thank God for all this new technology.”

Once the firefighters got a pulse, they rushed her to the hospital. Her husband later learned her cerebral blood flow had been interrupted by four blocked arteries, which required quadruple bypass surgery.

“One of her arteries was completely blocked, and it couldn’t get blood to her brain,” he said.

“They found out she had multiple stoppages in her arteries, so they made the decision to transfer her to ORMC and she got quadruple bypass surgery.”

Irene, who awoke about two to three days after the surgery, said the first thing she remembers after the whole ordeal were doctors in her hospital room asking her questions to test her brain function. For two weeks, she was unable to correctly answer simple questions, such as her age or the current year. She is still unable to remember anything that happened immediately before she collapsed in her driveway.

“I don’t even remember complaining about a sore throat,” she said. “I don’t remember telling Alex I had to go to the hospital, and I don’t remember what was going on that made me think I had to go to the hospital — no pain or anything. It was really strange.”

But Irene is grateful to the doctors at Orlando Regional Medical Center and the Ocoee firefighters who saved her life. After the whole ordeal, she called the city’s fire rescue department to personally thank them.

“I called them up to thank him because I originally thought it was just one guy,” she said. “So I called and asked to thank the guy who brought me back to life, and he said there were five of them.

And then he told me they were having an award ceremony soon and invited me to come and give each one of them an award.”

She met the five men who brought her back to life and presented a lifesaving award and badge to each of the firefighters at the Ocoee Fire Rescue Awards Ceremony on Thursday, Jan. 25.

“She could have ended up a vegetable,” her husband said.

“Ten years ago they would have buried her because we didn’t have the technology we have now – chilling her down to 56 degrees and the shock therapy they did to make her heart start functioning again — that didn’t exist back then. But I’m glad she’s back. It was unbelievable.”

Costs prohibit roundabout

the roundabout would probably take almost a year to complete, whereas the traffic light would take only six months — so it’s half the construction time.”

Bollhoefer said he will offer more updates regarding the future of the intersection after conversing with Orange County officials.

CITY CLERK RETIRES

Gabby Baquero

IN OTHER NEWS n The candidate qualifying period ended Tuesday, Jan. 23, but did not yield any candidates. Because there are no opponents for the District 2, 3 and 4 commissioner seats there will be no city election in March. n The final plat for phase two for Cypress Reserve, which includes 69 single-family lots, was approved. Cypress Reserve is a 35.91-acre Planned Unit Development located at 14365 Siplin Road. n City leaders approved the final reading of an ordinance amending a section of city code relating to ballots. The change updates the usage of the term “absentee ballots” to “vote-by-mail ballots” to reflect recent changes made by state law.

From left: Mark Maciel, Mike Bollhoefer, John Rees, Kathy Golden, Lisa Bennett and Bob Buchanan at the Jan. 25 City Commission meeting.

Golden served as the City Clerk for 28 years. “I have complete confidence in what the city’s future holds and that it will encourage residents to help keep Winter Garden a wonderful place to live and enjoy for everyone,” Golden wrote in a resignation letter addressed to the commission.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

had desired — has exceeded initial estimates.

“The biggest reason people wanted the roundabout was related to how they thought it would affect the adjacent development, but one corner is already developed into (George Bailey Park) and another corner is now a dentist office,” Bollhoefer said.

“The third corner, which is in the northeast, is in Ocoee, so we don’t control that. So there’s really only one corner left in Winter Garden, and I don’t think one roundabout intersection would really have a whole lot of effect on the development.”

The substantial increase, which

rose from $1.2 million to $2.7 million, stemmed from the costs required to purchase the rightof-way, as well as the sole contract offer the city received for the project. The sole offer, Bollhoefer speculated, was likely because of the busy season.

Bollhoefer added it would be difficult to justify a $2.7 million expenditure for a roundabout at an intersection “with just that much traffic” and suggested city staff also would consider the option of adding a traffic light instead.

“If we were to put a traffic light there, which would handle the traffic just as well, the cost is $1.2 million — significantly less,” Bollhoefer said. “Furthermore,

After 28 years of working as the city clerk for the city of Winter Garden, Kathy Golden is retiring.

Golden was hired in 1999 when the city had only 13,000 residents — a far cry from the 43,000 residents who now call Winter Garden home.

In a letter addressed to the City Commission, read by Winter Garden Mayor John Rees during the Jan. 25 commission meeting, Golden expressed she felt the time was right for her to retire, especially now that the opportunity presented itself with the second time in 18 years that the city’s candidate qualifying period resulted in no opponents.

“I have enjoyed serving the residents of Winter Garden and staff members both past and present,” Golden wrote. “The experiences that I have had will always be cherished. I am very proud to have been a part of what Winter Garden has become.”

After reading the letter, Rees and other commissioners thanked Golden for her service, remarked on past memories and wished her well in future endeavors.

“I would like to say to Kathy that it’s been an honor and pleasure to work with you and serve with you over all these years,” Rees said. “I think you’ve always put Winter Garden first, and you’ve always done what’s best for Winter Garden. ... It’s been very much appreciated. You will be sorely missed. And with that, I’d just like to say thank you.”

WEST ORANGE TIMES &

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

Friedrich Hayek “Road to Serfdom,” 1944 Publisher / Dawn Willis, dwillis@OrangeObserver.com Executive Editor / Michael Eng, meng@OrangeObserver.com Design Editor / Jessica Eng, jeng@OrangeObserver.com Senior Sports Editor / Steven Ryzewski, sryzewski@OrangeObserver.com News Editor / Gabby Baquero, gbaquero@OrangeObserver.com Community Editor / Amy Quesinberry, amyq@OrangeObserver.com Black Tie Editor / Danielle Hendrix, dhendrix@OrangeObserver.com Advertising Executives Michelle Gentry, mgentry@OrangeObserver.com Cyndi Gustafson, advertising@Orange Observer.com Creative Services Tony Trotti, ttrotti@OrangeObserver.com Customer Service Representatives Allison Brunelle, abrunelle@OrangeObserver.com Katie Rehm, krehm@orangeobserver.com

CONTACT US

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If you wish to subscribe, visit our website, OrangeObserver.com, call (407) 656-2121 or visit our office, 720 S. Dillard St., Winter Garden.

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WEST ORANGE TIMES

The West Orange Times & Observer (USPS 687-120) is published weekly for $40 per year ($50 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 & Observer, 720 S. Dillard St., Winter Garden, Florida 34787.

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2018

CATCH THE BIG GAME With US!

AMY QUESINBERRY COMMUNITY EDITOR

A 3D model of the campus at buildout rests on a table in the front office, a constant reminder of the exciting plans that are in the works.

Foundation Academy is celebrating its 60th anniversary this year, and part of that celebration is the expansion of the South Campus on Tilden Road in Winter Garden.

Dave Buckles, Foundation president, presented his State of the Academy to staff, students and families recently — recognizing the school’s history and acknowledging its vision for the future.

With a total enrollment of 782 students — 402 on the North Campus and 380 on the South Campus —Foundation Academy is out of building space. Enrollment projections are on the rise, too.

“In the next two to five years, we will need to build classrooms with a lunchroom, we will need gym expansions,” Buckles said. “(But) we will never lose the traditions we

have here at Foundation Academy, the family feel, community, a safe environment, supportive, caring and nurturing.”

The 3D model depicts a new, state-of-the-art fine-arts building as the focal point in the center of the campus. Opportunities for students will include seating for 750, drama and band rooms and lighting and sound for plays and other stage productions.

Beside it, a new classroom building will provide additional space.

The first building will have about 20 classes, including science labs and classes for multimedia.

Buckles said Foundation Academy is looking to grow its media production for both radio and television.

The school is allowed to have up to 1,200 students on the South Campus, and the new buildings will allow the school to house an additional 820 students.

“We have enrolled, to date, three times more people for the upcoming school year than (we currently have) at this time,” Buckles said.

“We’re at 88% retention, which is really high. People are standing in

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In 1958, a school ministry was started for kindergarten students at First Baptist Church in downtown Winter Garden.

It expanded to include first through third grades in 1984, with plans to expand by one grade each year.

The school was named Foundation Academy in 1993, and an educational facility and Christian Life Center were added.

In 2002, a high-school program was added, and Foundation Academy bought 75 acres of land in south Winter Garden.

Sixth- through 12th-graders were housed at the new campus starting in 2007. It is now called South Campus; North Campus for elementary-school students remains at First Baptist on Plant Street.

line to get in. It’s just a really neat time.”

Students in the media program did all the research and compiled their work to produce the State of the Academy videos that were shown.

“That’s one of the things that we brag about — that we keep up with technology and what’s going on around us,” Buckles said.

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A 3D model depicts the vision for the future of the school’s campus.

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2018

At S o n a t a We s t , we o f f e r INDEPENDENT LIVING, ASSISTED LIVING & MEMORY CARE

all on the The red outlines are the current borders for each attendance zone. The colored areas are the new attendance zones for the fall.

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When the Orange County School Board approved the new site for Maxey Elementary School, there was one problem: The new school at 602 E. Story Road is located within the attendance zone of Dillard Street Elementary School.

The School Board approved rezonings at its Jan. 9 meeting to accommodate the new location, and this modification affects students at the new campus of Maxey Elementary, as well as some at neighboring Dillard Street, SunRidge and Ocoee elementaries.

The new zones will take effect when the 2018-19 school year commences in August. Most of the students who live in the new zone reside in the area north of West Colonial Drive, east of Dillard Street and west of Ninth Street.

Shari Bobinski, senior manager of media promotions with Orange County Public Schools, said 358 students are affected by the rezoning: 211 from Dillard Street to Maxey; and 47 to Dillard Street, 84 to Ocoee and 16 to SunRidge from Maxey.

According to OCPS, some students will qualify for a “grandfathered transfer.” This will apply to those who have been rezoned

by OCPS two or more times during a school level at their current address or who have been rezoned from an established school to another established school. However, transportation is not provided by OCPS, and there is no transfer eligibility for siblings who do not meet the same criteria for a grandfathered transfer.

AFFECTED SCHOOLS

The attendance zones of four elementary schools were changed to keep overcapacity to a minimum. n Maxey — current enrollment, 278; capacity, 167 n Dillard Street — current enrollment, 615; capacity, 562 n Ocoee — current enrollment, 718; capacity, 725 n SunRidge — current enrollment, 734; capacity 796

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In developing rezoning options, OCPS’s Student Enrollment Department considers one or more of these factors: anticipated growth and development within the attendance zone; facility design capacity for each affected school; distances and duration of student travel; school feeder patterns; and adverse impacts to neighborhoods, residential subdivisions or other discrete residential areas.

The new Maxey will afford students the chance to experience multiple arts through music, dance and creative art — it will become a performing-arts academy when it opens in the fall.

“The school will be a beautiful focal point in the Winter Garden community and will offer the newest technological features to ensure student engagement and safety,” Maxey Principal Carletta Davis-Wilson said. “Classrooms will be equipped with the most up-to-date digital infrastructure and learning environment to help prepare learners for the digital economy.”

Davis-Wilson said staff likely will begin moving in at the end of this school year. Families and community members will be offered a “sneak peek” before school starts in August. The school, No. 127 on the list of schools benefitting from the sales-tax referendum, cost $18.6 million.

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ALSO INSIDE: Inside Out Jail Ministries: Changing Lives banquet. 8 Town of Windermere: Windermere Wine & Dine. 9

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ORANGEOBSERVER.COM

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2018

Goal to go F

Former Redskins player and Super Bowl champion Fred Stokes had a blast with Mary Gardner and Howard Tate.

100 Black Men President Ron Rogers spent time with Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer.

Kayra Febles and Diana Melendez looked fabulous.

ootball legends banded together to help children in need at the Citrus Club’s First and Goal gala Saturday, Jan. 27.

Held in downtown Orlando, the function raised money for The Parramore Kidz Zone, an economic and educational initiative helping the impoverished Parramore neighborhood. Current and former NFL players — a few of whom are in the Pro Football Hall of Fame — posed for pictures and signed autographs.

Gala guests bid on luxury trips and prizes at the silent auction, picked up drinks at the bar and danced the night away.

— HARRY SAYER

Right: Home Suite Home owner Dianna Chane and Sharon Smoley tried to measure up to Bo Outlaw.

Left: Guests waited for the chance to get a photo with some of the Hall of Fame players at the gala.

ONLINE

Community leader Andrae Bailey looked great and made sure the whole night ran smoothly.

See more photos at OrangeObserver.com

Dr. Anthony Davis, Rich Schibel and Florida Abolitionists CEO Tomas Lares met up at the event.

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2018

TIE

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

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St. Luke’s Director of Missions Amy Winslow, Nan Slone and Executive Director of Missions Fikirte Mengistie visited the church in style.

Inside Out Jail Ministries’ Changing Lives banquet

Indulge in a variety of beer, wine and spirits from some of your favorite local restaurants along with scrumptious samples, including your favorite French, Italian, American and BBQ dishes!

All for one admission price. Visit wochamber.com to purchase tickets.

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Gregory Boykin and Inside Out Jail Ministries co-founder Brian Fisher chatted for some time.

— HARRY SAYER

Orange County Sheriff’s Office MD Stanley Murray and Orange County mayoral candidate Jerry Demings attended the gala.

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aith and charity mixed at the Inside Out Jail Ministries’ fundraiser and banquet Friday, Jan. 26, at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church.

The function, titled “Changing Lives from the Inside Out,” raised money for the nonprofit’s programs that help incarcerated people. This includes worship services, education sessions and recovery programs. Guests mingled and bid on gifts and trips at the silent auction before sitting down for music and food.

See more photos at OrangeObserver.com

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2018

Windermere Wine & Dine 2018

REAL BLACK

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OrangeObserver.com

February is Fabulous!

Shawn and Candy Murnan, Emily Pola and Renee and Jeffrey Funk were loving the gorgeous weather.

F

Amy Diederich, Vanessa Kunkel and Karyn Lund pretended to be Charlie’s Angels.

or its fifth consecutive year, Windermere Wine & Dine proved once again to be a hit with residents.

About 1,000 attendees and volunteers gathered at and around Windermere Town Hall for an evening of sampling wines and local delicacies, as well as mingling and bidding on silent-auction items.

This year’s event beneficiaries included the Mustang Education Fund, Windermere Historic Preservation Board, Tree Board, Parks and Recreation Board and the Windermere Police Foundation.

Additionally, the brandnew “Wine & Dine Outreach Grant” was awarded to ReThink Homelessness’ Impact Families mission.

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— DANIELLE HENDRIX

ONLINE See more photos at OrangeObserver.com

Melissa and Brian Chilton and Basil Valdivia stopped to enjoy their wines.

Sa tu rd ay , Feb 24

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2018

Kurt Ardaman knows how to stand out in a crowd with his bright orange-and-blue jacket. With him are School Board Member Pam Gould, left, chamber President Stina D’Uva and Karen Ardaman.

Sweet celebration W

Windermere Mayor Gary Bruhn and wife Kay were a good-looking couple.

ith a total of 10 awards presented, about 27 auction items up for grabs and hundreds of guests in attendance, the West Orange Chamber of Commerce’s 2018 Big Orange Awards made for a memorable evening.

Held at Walt Disney World’s Contemporary Resort on Friday, Jan. 26, the annual awards dinner honors hardworking West Orange-area leaders and business owners who are dedicated to their community and exemplify leadership and service to others.

The chamber’s Business Member of the Year award recipients are always announced at the event, and this year were Pammie’s Sammies and Florida Hospital.

Award winners gathered at the end of the ceremony for a group photo.

2018 AWARD WINNERS

Oakland town commissioners Sal Ramos, left, and Rick Polland attended the Big Orange Awards event with their wives, Marivel Ramos and Tammy Polland.

— DANIELLE HENDRIX AND AMY QUESINBERRY

Scott Boyd and Tom Stroup put on their best suits for the awards ceremony.

n Chairman’s Award: Rob Maphis n Sam Hovsepian Award: David Billsborough n Ambassador of the Year: Denise Fisher n Mary VanDeventer “The Spirit of West Orange” Award: Jennifer Campbell n George Bailey Award: Chick-fil-A n Bert Roper Award: Becky and Charlie Roper n Danniel J. Petro “The Bright Future of West Orange” Award: Gary Shif n Lifetime Director: Kurt Ardaman n Small Business of the Year: Pammie’s Sammies n Big Business of the Year: Florida Hospital

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Ocoee Mayor Rusty Johnson, Commissioner Joel Keller and Orlando Police Chief John Mina looked sharp.

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WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2018

JOSH GARRICK

Josh Garrick, a West Orange resident, is a fine-art photographer, writer and curator. He holds a master’s degree in fine arts from Columbia University.

He was the first non-Greek artist in history to exhibit in the National Archaeological Museum of Greece. In Orlando, Mayor Buddy Dyer named June 27 as “Josh Garrick Day” in perpetuity.

1

2

‘THE HUNCHBACK OF NOTRE DAME’

7:30 p.m. Feb. 8 and 9 at Northland Church, Longwood.

Based on the 1831 novel by Victor Hugo (1802 to 1885) and the 1996 Disney film, “The Hunchback of Notre Dame” bursts into life onstage, with the music and lyrics of Academy Award-winners Alan Menken and Stephen Schwartz.

Ironically, we know of at least 10 plays written by Victor Hugo.

In 1864, he published a wellreceived essay on Shakespeare, whose style he attempted to emulate in his dramas. It was, however, his two iconic novels — “Les Miserables” and “The Bells of Notre Dame” (Hugo’s title) — for which the author is known today.

Central Florida Community Arts takes a hard look at humanity in this musica. Call (407) 937-1800 or visit CFCArts.com.

Courtesy photo

3

DONNA DOWLESS: THE HEART ARTIST SHARES THE LOVE

6 to 9 p.m. Feb. 9; runs through March 12, at the Grand Bohemian Hotel. We can’t share the greatest love story of all time without a bounty of hearts, and because it’s open to the public, you may join the hundreds of fans and art lovers who will be at the Grand Bohemian Hotel to congratulate the Great Lady of the painted heart — Donna Dowless.

This is the opening reception for the 14th annual Heart and Soul Exhibition, a painting exhibit produced by Orlando’s “Queen of Hearts” and “Ambassador of Love” (so named and appointed

by Mayor Buddy Dyer). This highly recommended event is always one of the great art exhibits and social events of the season. At the Art Gallery within the Grand Bohemian Hotel, 325 S. Orange Ave. Call (407) 581-4801 or visit grandbohemiangallery.com.

4

‘ROMEO & JULIET’

8 p.m. Feb. 9 and 10, and 2 p.m. Feb. 11, at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. Our “Shakespeare Intensive” continues as the Orlando Ballet brings us the ballet version of the world’s greatest love story. In an act of booking serendipity, two of our outstanding performing ensembles — The Orlando Shakespeare Company and the Orlando Ballet — are offering us a host of different ways to celebrate and learn about the time when young Will Shakespeare wrote “Romeo & Juliet,” and there is no more perfect Valentine gift than a performance of

this timeless love story. With the score for the ballet seen by many as second only to “Swan Lake” in its lyrical, story-telling brilliance, Prokofiev’s transcendent score will be performed live by the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra. “‘Romeo & Juliet’ is the most revered love story ever told, (statistically true) and a wonderful opportunity for patrons to experience a ballet full of passion, intensity and enchantment,” said Artistic Director Robert Hill. For tickets, call 844-513-2014 or visit drphillipscenter.org.

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The opening reception for Donna Dowless: The Heart Artist Shares the Love, begins at 6 p.m. Feb. 9, at the Grand Bohemian Hotel.

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‘TWELFTH NIGHT’

Feb. 21 to March 23.

Rounding out our “Shakespeare Month,” Orlando Shakes will perform “Twelfth Night” in rotation with “Shakespeare in Love,” (see above) in a fully Elizabethan production with clothing, scenery, music and dance created as it was in 1602 — and performed by an all-male cast. Lady Viola (see above) continues as young Will’s muse as she serves as the role model for the character of Viola in “Twelfth Night.” In the play a pair of shipwrecked twins set into motion a tale of mistaken identity and unlikely love.

Separated from her twin brother, the quick-thinking Viola adopts a male disguise and enters the service of Duke Orsino. In this allmale performance, the handsome … uh … beautiful John P. Keller plays Olivia, and the brilliantly funny Artistic Director Jim Helsinger takes on the comedy role of Malvolio. For tickets, please call (407) 447-1700, Ext. 1 or visit orlandoshakes.org.

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Feb. 7 to March 25 at the Orlando Shakespeare Theater. In 1998, a romantic fantasy movie opened that gave audiences a glimpse at the young Will Shakespeare and a well-researched look at life in the streets of London circa 1600. The movie went on to win Academy Awards for Best Picture; Best Actress (Gwyneth Paltrow); Best Supporting Actress (Judi Dench) and more. Although we are used to plays being made into movies, the screenplay for “Shakespeare in Love” has been turned into a play. Young Will is the “star” dramatist of his time, but he’s been struck by writer’s block with his new comedy, “Romeo and Ethel” a mess and the playhouse under threat of closure. Will needs a muse, and she appears in the form of the beautiful (and betrothed) Lady Viola de Lesseps. Playing in rotation with “Twelfth Night,” (as they did in Shakespeare’s day), call (407) 447-1700, Ext.1 or visit orlandoshakes.org.

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2018

Winter Garden Art Association 4th Annual Fundraising Gala Friday, February 16th, 6:30pm - 10pm

The dance floor filled quickly once the dance music started.

Rotary families cut rug at organization’s first dance Join us for a magical night under the stars at the Winter Garden Pavilion while helping to raise funds for the Arts.

Enjoy cocktails, dinner, live music and live art demonstrations. Silent and Live Auction.

Only $85 individual tickets Sponsorships and reserved tables also available.

T

he Winter Garden Rotary Club hosted its first community dance Friday, Jan. 19, at Tanner Hall, and about 150 club members and West Orange residents were in attendance.

They were treated to an evening of food and drinks, a raffle and hours of dancing music. The event was such a success that the club plans to make it an annual event.

About $2,500 was raised, thanks to the raffle gifts donated by Ace Hardware, Main Street Mower, Ms. Bee’s Popcorn and West Orange Country Club, as well as several guests. The proceeds will be donated to a local charity.

Purchase your tickets online

www.wgart.org Winter Garden Art Association 262877

ONLINE

See more photos at OrangeObserver.com

BRAND NEW KITCHEN AND BATH Cabinets and Fixtures

Come in and see our selection of vanities, sinks, tubs, toilets, cabinets, flooring and more.

Just in time for your spring remodel project!

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Henry Wright and Mimi Ortiz-Wright enjoyed the Rotary dance at Tanner Hall.

— AMY QUESINBERRY

SOBO Art Gallery 127 South Boyd St, Winter Garden FL 34787

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WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

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UCF, Ocoee High to perform at Winter Jazz Night Concert AMY QUESINBERRY

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2018

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The Flying Horse Big Band is one of the premiere performing ensembles of the UCF Music Department. The Flying Horse Big Band has featured Randy Brecker, Bob Berg, Michael Mossman, James Moody, Nick Brignola, Harry Allen, Steve Turre, Rodney Holmes, Terry Gibbs, Marvin Stamm, Mulgrew Miller, John Swana, Kevin Mahogany, Lou Donaldson and Eric Alexander.

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A great night of jazz music is planned for Saturday, Feb. 3, when HapCO hosts its 2018 Winter Jazz Night Concert. The show starts at 6:30 p.m. at Ocoee High School, 1925 Ocoee Crown Point Parkway.

The Ocoee High Jazz Band, directed by Bernie Hendricks, will open the concert. Headliners are The Jazz Professors and The Flying Horse Big Band, both from the University of Central Florida.

Advanced tickets are $5 for students and $10 for adults. Group discounts also are available.

The Jazz Professors will lead a free jazz clinic during the day for middle- and high-school students, who will learn technique, form and performance from jazz professionals. The band is composed of Jeff Rupert, Per Danielsson, Richard Drexler, Bobby Koelble and Marty Morell, who are on faculty in UCF’s Jazz Studies Department.

Other clinicians are Danny Jordan, Scott Devlin, Mark Belfast, Derek Harris and Andrew Kennedy.

“This clinic connects students with local professional musicians and university professors,” Hendricks said. “We emphasize educational resources available to them through music programs as well as provide guidance for ways to pursue a professional musical career.”

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WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

THESE OLD TIMES

|

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2018

FROM THE WINTER GARDEN HERITAGE FOUNDATION

FEB. 2, 1978 The Food World grocery store had special offers from time to time at its Winter Garden location. In the Feb. 2, 1978, issue of The Winter Garden Times, the store advertised special Sunfrost Therm-O-Ware food containers that were perfect for traveling, camping, boating and picnics.

Lime green and lemon yellow pieces were offered.

Cups started at 19 cents, and the most expensive piece was a 2.5-quart ice or food server with lock-on cover for $2.98.

80 years ago

The Florida Telephone Corporation announced it has available for its subscribers the weather forecast as provided by the Weather Bureau at Lakeland. During the cold spells, anyone can call the local information operator and ask for the latest forecast.

50 years ago

A new Catholic church to serve the people of the West Orange area is now under construction on State Road 50. It will be known as Resurrection Parish, with Father Bronis Benesevich as pastor.

Groundbreaking ceremonies were held for the new Ramada Inn at the corner of Maguire Road and S.R. 50.

The new inn will be seven stories high with a penthouse that will have a view of the Walt Disney World theme park.

45 years ago

Stage Stop Campground is now under construction on the south side of State Road 50. This new venture, owned

by George Spigener, covers 22 acres of land and will accommodate 248 camper units.

New Windermere Councilwoman Kathy Matheison got her feet wet at the first

THROWBACK THURSDAY

FROM THE ARCHIVES Even in the dead of winter. promotional postcards extolled the charms of Winter Garden’s growing season. While northern states were shivering under Jack Frost’s spell, the towns along Lake Apopka’s south shore grew citrus and vegetables year-round, as this postcard from a warm January sometime in the 1920s proves. In those days, fields of cabbage and other vegetables filled hundreds of acres between the city of Winter Garden and the lake to the north.

The mission of the Winter Garden Heritage Foundation is to preserve the heritage and architecture of Winter Garden while creating new cultural experiences. The Foundation also preserves the material culture of West Orange County, using it to educate the area’s youth on the community’s rich history.

council meeting of 1973. She was installed, as were Bob Pleus and George Hill, by Mayor Dean Kinzey.

The West Orange YMCA is beginning its third year under the direction of Ben Hargrove.

40 years ago

A tornado ripped through the Windermere area, destroying houses, docks and boats and uprooting dozens of trees. No one was injured.

10 years ago

The city of Winter Garden made plans to renovate the old Dillard Street Elementary School facilities and turn them into the city’s recreation campus.

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FEBRUARY 1, 2018

HIGH

SPORTS

5 File photo

1

The Ocoee High boys soccer team scored a big 2-0 win Jan. 22 against Windermere (9-42). Alejandro Flores and Josh Sandoval each had a goal in the victory for the Knights (6-9-2).

Foundation Academy cheerleader Erin Hassell recognized by Fellowship of Christian Cheerleaders. Page 16.

Legacy High hoops having success under first-year coach Ahead of the 2017-18 season, Caio Santos was promoted to head coach. The Eagles have rewarded their new coach with a program-best 12 wins.

STEVEN RYZEWSKI SENIOR SPORTS EDITOR

The Legacy High boys basketball team has won nine of its past 12 games entering this week, as the team continues to improve under first-year coach Caio Santos.

Santos, who played his own high-school ball at nearby Ocoee High before playing collegiately and then professionally in Brazil, took over this season. The Eagles had been led the past four seasons

by Matthew Post, under whom

Santos was a varsity assistant the last three seasons. Post, who also teaches at Legacy, has moved into an assistant athletic director role.

“They told me they saw a lot of energy out of me when it came to helping these kids,” Santos said. “They decided to give me a chance.”

Legacy went 10-12 in the 201617 season and already has eclipsed that win total this winter. The Eagles are 12-7 as of Jan. 29, with four games to play before the Class 3A, District 3 Tournament.

Steven Ryzewski

Caio Santos is in his first season as the head coach for Legacy High.

SEE LEGACY PAGE 16

FULL CIRCLE A four-year starter for the West Orange softball team, Lexie Blair has grown from a wide-eyed freshman on varsity to a senior leader for the Warriors.

2

In three games last week to end the regular season, the West Orange boys soccer team (10-2-3) won twice and tied once. The Warriors defeated Lake Nona 6-1 Jan. 23 and tied Freedom 2-2 Jan. 25. On Jan. 26, West Orange defeated rival Windermere 4-0 in its regular-season finale.

STEVEN RYZEWSKI SENIOR SPORTS EDITOR

3

District tournaments for boys soccer are ongoing this week, with four area teams competing for two district titles. West Orange and Ocoee will compete in the Class 5A, District 4 Tournament at Olympia High, with that district final set for 7 p.m. Friday.

Meanwhile, Foundation Academy enters the Class 1A, District 4 Tournament as the top seed, with Legacy weighing in as the No. 3 seed in the six-team tournament.

4

The Ocoee girls basketball team has won four consecutive games, spanning Jan. 18 through 25. The Knights (7-16) defeated East Ridge, 52-38; Dr. Phillips, 48-47; Olympia, 50-33; and West Port, 63-52.

5

The Ocoee High competitive cheerleading team placed first in the Class 2A, Region 2 Meet Jan. 20 in the Medium Non-Tumbling category. The Knights’ 76.60 score was enough to automatically qualify them for state and was a program best.

Win No. 12 — which came Jan. 23 against Trinity Christian Academy — set a new regularseason high mark for the Eagles, whose previous best had been 11 wins in 2013-14.

Santos may be in a new role for the program, but his familiarity from working as an assistant under Post, along with Legacy’s veteran roster, have boded well.

Ten of Legacy’s 14 varsity players are either juniors or seniors.

Legacy has played particularly well recently, suggesting the team may be hitting its stride.

“We’re starting to figure it out and we’re starting to better deal with when things don’t go right

Steven Ryzewski

Lexie Blair has been a standout for the Warriors since she was a freshman outfielder for the 2015 team that reached the regional finals.

WINTER GARDEN One would never know it by watching her on the field, but Lexie Blair does get nervous.

In fact, the way the senior outfielder for the West Orange softball team tells it, she gets a certain degree of nerves before almost every game.

But if one were to judge only by Blair’s performance — a varsity career that has seen her deliver, time and again, in big spots — it wouldn’t be unreasonable to think nothing can rattle the local teen.

As a freshman, she hit a solo home run in the regional championship against Hagerty. A year later in the regional championship — this time on the road at Spruce Creek — her two-run single drove in the only runs of a win that would send the Warriors back to the Final Four for the first time since 2013. Two games later, West Orange had won a state title.

Seemingly like clockwork, Blair again delivered in the 2017 regional championship — again against Spruce Creek, but in Winter Garden. The then-junior doubled in the only runs of the game.

Two games later, in the 2017 FHSAA Class 9A State Championship, Blair led off the sixth inning of a scoreless game with a triple. Morgan Arcia drove her in on a sacrifice fly, scoring the only run in a game that made the Warriors back-to-back champs.

Given all of that, Blair’s own admission that she was so nervous she was shaking in left field during the final half-inning of that state final might come as a surprise. But then, Lexie Blair isn’t impervious to high-pressure

moments, so much as she is really good at taking them in stride.

“I’m always nervous,” Blair says, laughing. “I’m nervous before games — it’s just how I am. But I don’t let the nerves get into my head. Whenever I tend to overthink, that’s when I do bad. … I’ve always had the tendency to be really humble and calm.

That’s what’s made me successful in those kinds of situations.”

Now, on the eve of her senior season, the standout outfielder and University of Michigan signee is excited for one last go-round in West Orange blue-and-orange.

EARLY OMEN

Perhaps the person who is most surprised by the success of Lexie Blair, the softball player, would be Lexie Blair — or, at least, the 9-year-old version of herself.

That’s because when her mother, Krissy Strong, signed Blair up for softball at age 10, it was a complete surprise.

The real surprise came two years later, though, when Blair was part of the Windermere Little League Softball team that went to the 2012 Little League Softball World Series. That remarkable run would prove to be a fitting entry point for a career that has now seen two appearances in state championship games — with hopes for a third and a Big 10 college career on the horizon.

“As a 12-year-old, you’re on TV, so you’re excited and you don’t really know what the environment is like,” Blair said. “I think I was way more nervous with high school, because it was just a different level of competition. I knew I was ready for it, but being with girls that were three or four SEE BLAIR PAGE 16

16

SPORTS SPOTLIGHT

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

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OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2018

SPONSORED BY MARK’S FLOORS

Erin Hassell The Foundation Academy cheerleading team had a strong weekend earlier this month at the Fellowship of Christian Cheerleaders National competition, placing third overall and first in tumbling. Not only that, but junior cheerleader Erin Hassell — who has been with the cheerleading program for nearly a decade — was recognized with the FCC’s Scholar Cheerleader Award.

What was it like when you found you would be recognized by the FCC? I was excited when they told me — I was a little surprised.

What’s your mentality toward doing well in school?

Doing well in school: That’s setting you up well for your future and college — whatever you want to do.

How long have you been involved in cheerleading?

I have been cheering since second grade, I believe. I just love the sport.

What do you enjoy about sideline cheerleading and competition cheer?

I love doing both. To be on the sidelines is great, cheering on the football team and cheering to the crowd. But then it’s also great to being on the mat with our team — I love doing it.

Which teammate is the funniest?

I don’t know — they’re all really funny. We’re always laughing.

Having been at Foundation Academy for more than a decade, what do you enjoy about attending the school?

I love the school — every single teacher is amazing and there is always someone you can talk to.

They all care about what’s going

THE BASICS School: Foundation Academy Year: Junior Height: 5-foot-4 Competition cheerleading position: Base Hometown: Ocoee

on, and they want you to do well.

What’s your favorite class at Foundation Academy?

Portfolio art class is my favorite.

I want to go into interior design and our teacher (Mary Ellen Murray) is amazing.

How did you decide you were interested in interior design?

When I was younger, I wanted to do fashion design. And then, over time, I loved decorating, and I wanted to change to interior design.

What is your favorite show?

I watch a lot of older shows. I love “Gilligan’s Island” and “The Andy Griffith Show.”

How did you get into older shows such as those?

We’ve always watched older shows. We watch newer stuff, too, but we’re always watching older shows. They’re all funny, and when you watch them, a lot of times, it’ll teach you something.

If you could travel anywhere, where would you go?

I want to visit Australia.

What’s your favorite kind of family time?

On Saturdays, we like to go to Universal, or we’ll find something to do around here.

Do you know what you will be looking for in a college?

A good interior design program, because that’s what I want to do.

Small student body.

— STEVEN RYZEWSKI

Athlete of the Week sponsored by:

Blair FROM PAGE 15

years older than me, I think that was the slightly nerve-wracking part.”

Blair’s coach throughout her career at West Orange, Todd LaNeave, likely sensed as much from his quiet freshman with bunches of talent. So, during the 2015 season, he and his staff slowly integrated her into games — a pinch-hitting opportunity here, an inning out on the field there.

Thing is, every time they did that, Blair did something impressive.

“I sprinkled in her opportunities,” LaNeave said. “Every time she got an opportunity — especially at the plate — she came up with a hit. … She always seemed to excel.”

Roughly 15 games into that season, which ended with the regional final loss to Hagerty, Blair had become a freshman starter for one of the best softball teams in the country.

ROLE MODEL IN CENTER

Luckily for Blair, she didn’t have to look far for a role model — she only had to glance to centerfield.

Jade Caraway, a 2016 West Orange alumna who is now a sophomore standout at North Carolina State, was also a starter for the Warriors as a freshman.

Although the two don’t necessarily look alike — Caraway is a tad taller — their playing styles have some eerie similarities: range and athleticism roaming the outfield, speed on

the basepaths, dynamic hitters who have high batting averages.

“There’s a size difference, as far as height, but the way they both play the game — you can’t ask for anything more than that,” LaNeave said.

The two outfielders won a state championship together in 2016, and Blair says she gravitated toward the enthusiasm and work ethic Caraway brought to the game. “(Caraway) taught me everything … I really looked up to her,” Blair said. “Her work ethic — everyday at practice she’d always give 100%. You’d see her diving all around the place.”

Blair and Caraway shared a chemistry in the outfield that was present elsewhere on the roster, also. In fact, as a twotime state champion, chemistry is something Blair highlights about those 2016 and 2017 squads.

“My thing is, when I join a team, I get a feel for how I’m going to be with each girl,” Blair said. “I’m really big on teamchemistry. I’ve grown up with these girls a majority of my life and I’m comfortable being around them.”

FINAL ROUND

Last fall, Blair signed a National Letter of Intent to play her college softball for the University of Michigan. She chose the Wolverines from a long line of suitors, in part because of her family’s ties to the area.

“I have a ton of family from there — my mom’s side of the family is from there,” Blair said.

“Touring the campus, I’m really into big schools and the atmosphere is just amazing. The

Legacy FROM PAGE 15

in the game,” Santos said.

Even with its success, though, Legacy has had a rough time within its district. The Eagles are 0-4 in 3A-3, with their only close loss coming in the form of an 81-80 overtime defeat at Foundation Academy.

As the district’s bottom seed, the Eagles will get another shot at the rival Lions — the No. 4 seed — in the first game of the district tournament. It is a game Legacy will need to win if it hopes to add an improbable first playoff appearance for the program to its other accomplishments this season.

Photos by Steven Ryzewski

Above: Nathaniel Rodriguez is averaging 14.5 points per game.

Right: Jayden Patterson pushed the ball upcourt for the Eagles.

ONLINE

For photos from the boys and girls basketball games that took place January 25 between Legacy High and Mount Dora Christian, visit ObserverPreps.com.

12 STRONG

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feeling I got was just like ‘OK, this could be my next home.’”

Family, of course, has been a big part of Blair’s success — dating back to her unexpected entry into the game.

“My mom has been my biggest supporter since the start,” Blair said. “She kind of just threw me in (softball) and ever since she’s been the biggest supporter. My family didn’t understand softball, but they took the time to learn it and understand it.”

Blair’s senior season will begin with a damper, though.

During the offseason, she had surgery on her right foot, and Blair likely will be out until around spring break.

“I honestly think it’s bittersweet being in your senior year and being injured,” Blair said. “I’m not going to let it me hold me back, still — I’m going to keep a positive mindset for when I do heal.”

When Blair comes back, and how quickly she can get back up to speed, remains to be seen — as does whether this year’s Warriors can surprise observers by again being competitive on the state level after the graduation of some key seniors from the 2017 team.

What is a good bet, though, is that whenever Blair does return to the field this spring, it’ll be for the conclusion of a remarkable varsity career. “(Blair) has led the team in (batting) average every year that she’s played here — even as a freshman,” LaNeave said.

“She’s always been in the top two or three in RBIs, hits, stolen bases. … I don’t know if somebody will come along like that again.”

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OrangeObserver.com

Girls soccer season ends for area teams SENIOR SPORTS EDITOR

Last week, girls soccer teams from around the state took to the pitch for their respective district tournaments. Playoff spots were on the line and awarded to teams that made their district final.

Although nearby teams such as Dr. Phillips and Windermere would do just that (both the Panthers and Wolverines finished as district runners-up in their respective tournaments), no teams from the coverage area of the West Orange Times & Observer advanced.

CLASS 5A, DISTRICT 4

As the tournament’s No. 5 seed, the West Orange Warriors won their first game in the Class 5A, District 4 Tournament last week, defeating No. 4 Edgewater 1-0 January 22 on a goal by Cristina Roque.

Two days later at Apopka High, the host site of the tournament, the Warriors fell to top-seeded Dr. Phillips. West Orange finished the 2017-18 campaign — a season during which it had no home field — with a 9-8 record.

Ocoee, the No. 7 seed, was soundly defeated 8-0 by No. 2 Apopka on the opening day of the tournament, Jan. 22. The Knights

17

The Windermere High girls soccer program punched a ticket to the postseason in its inaugural season during the Class 4A, District 5 Tournament last week.

The senior-less Wolverines, who entered the tournament as the No. 2 seed behind nationally ranked Montverde Academy, defeated No. 3 Lake Minneola 2-1 January 22 in the district semis.

That victory secured a spot in the FHSAA Class 4A Regional Playoffs for Windermere.

“It’s huge,” Windermere head coach Trent Frederick said. “For a first-year program to be in the district final is a phenomenal story.”

Two days later, Windermere fell 3-0 to Montverde — MaxPreps’ top-ranked team in the state and ninth-ranked team in the nation.

“We definitely just tried to cut off their passing lanes and win as many 50-50 balls as we could,” Frederick said. “We’re not hanging our heads after this loss, that’s for sure.”

Windermere now will prepare for its first playoff game against the Melbourne Bulldogs (12-2-1), the district champions from District 4A-6. The regional quarterfinal matchup is scheduled for 7 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 6, in Melbourne.

Whatever may come, though, the veteran coach was quick to praise how far his first-year program has come.

“I think we’re ahead of the game,” Frederick said.

finished with a record of 4-13.

The district final pitted Dr. Phillips against Apopka, with the host Blue Darters scoring the 1-0 upset Jan. 26. Both teams advance to the regional quarterfinals of the FHSAA Class 5A Playoffs February 6.

CLASS 1A, DISTRICT 4

The Foundation Academy Lions entered the Class 1A, District 4 Tournament as the No. 4 seed, meaning a matchup with No. 5 Circle Christian in the six-team tournament. Despite a regular season win over Circle Christian, the Lions fell 3-1 in the district tournament Jan. 22, ending their season.

Top-seeded Geneva School topped No. 2 International Community School 2-0 Jan. 26 in the district final.

ELSEWHERE

The Legacy Charter girls soccer team was in its inaugural season this winter and therefore did not compete in the FHSAA State Series. Despite not competing in a district tournament, the Eagles compiled a 5-9-1 record — including three consecutive victories to close their first season.

CFCA did not field a girls soccer team this winter.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2018

Windermere makes playoffs in first season

None of the three teams covered by the West Orange Times & Observer advanced past its district tournament. West Orange High was the only team to advance as far as the district semifinals.

STEVEN RYZEWSKI

|

Steven Ryzewski

West Orange freshman Brianna Barragan rose up for a header during the District 5A-4 Semifinal Jan. 24.

— STEVEN RYZEWSKI

CHURCH DIRECTORY

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This week’s Celebrity Cipher answers Puzzle One Solution: “I hope that I’m always struggling ... you develop when you’re struggling. When you’re struggling, you get stronger.”

– Andrew Garfield

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24K MILES LEATHER INTERIOR CLEAN CARFAX HISTORY REPORT EXCELLENT CONDITION INSIDE AND OUT $16,999

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WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2018

FORECAST

W EAT HER

20

THURSDAY, FEB. 1 High: 72 Low: 56 Chance of rain: 10%

Yes, this was actually in Florida!

Winter Garden resident Heather Kuhl snapped this photo of icicles on a recent frosty morning.

I LOVE WEST ORANGE ONLINE

FRIDAY, FEB. 2 High: 74 Low: 50 Chance of rain: 10%

The West Orange Times and Observer is hosting this weekly contest, and winners will have their photograph featured and receive a $20 prize. To enter, email your photo, along with your name, city and a caption, to amyq@ orangeobserver. com; put “I Love West Orange” in the subject line.

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SUNRISE / SUNSET

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Thursday, Feb. 1

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MOON PHASES

SATURDAY, FEB. 3 High: 70 Low: 55 Chance of rain: 0%

Feb. 23 First

March 1 Full

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Feb. 15 New

RAINFALL Tuesday, Jan. 23

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High: 75 Low: 59 Chance of rain: 40%

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YEAR TO DATE:

JAN. TO DATE:

2018 1.89 in.

2018 1.89 in.

2017 1.75 in.

2017

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1.75 in.

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102 Place for the first couple 104 Heal for good 105 Romantic couple’s plans 112 Three gift bearers seeking Jesus 113 Words with bend or lend 114 Hand out cards 115 Home for a falcon 116 Third-generation Genesis man 117 Chatter on foolishly 118 The Old Sod 119 Hag relative 120 Too-heavy drinkers 121 Tipped, as a dealer 122 “Mush!” vehicle 123 Daly and an English river

CELEBRITY CIPHER

title 52 Warm Alpine wind 55 More than chubby

By Luis Campos 56 U-turn from include Celebrity Cipher cryptograms are created from 57 Accessory quotations by famous people, past and present.

58 Email attachment, Each letter in the cipher stands for another. sometimes “C LWFZ MLNM C’T NDUNSY 59 Indian state 60 “We Can Work ___” YMKAIIDCXI ... SWA GZHZDWF ULZX 62 Capital near the 60th parallel SWA’KZ YMKAIIDCXI. ULZX SWA’KZ 64 “___ say!” (parental order) YMKAIIDCXI, SWA IZM YMKWXIZK.” 65 Charles who wrote the Maximus poems – NXGKZU INKRCZDG 66 Words after “My country” 67 Car allowing leg-stretching “LX WGCNC’O OHCVLXLV DOWN 68 A certain Middle East1 Tennis player’s concern erner NCOLOWDUVC WP ZPBCU BDFLUT 2 Kinks hit 69 Word in some U.S. state 3 Viking god of war names BPALCO, L RJOW VGPPOC WP 4 “My fault!” relative 70 Highest country on Earth 5 Concession stand drinks 75 “I blew that” LTUPNC WGDW DO DU PKOWDVYC.” 6 Like corner joints in 77 One making ground carpentry – FDWGNMU KLTCYPZ 7 Expressions of repugnance strokes?

8 One of three in a 1970 war 78 Showy stoles 79 Time-signature go-with film title ©2018 NEA, Inc. 80 Shower-ready 9 Cut short 81 Angrily agonize 10 More in need of refining 83 Country girl?

11 Try another color on 84 Hand-thrown bombs 12 Scratch a liftoff Complete the grid so that every row, column 86 Type of British court 13 Expert and 3x3 box contains every digit from 1 to 9 89 Be flexible again 14 King of horror inclusively.

90 Emulated a helicopter 15 Morally pure 91 “... lived happily ___ after” 16 Tommyrot or nonsense 92 Ribbed or teased 17 Psychology’s soul 93 Baby’s parental word 18 Mortise’s mate 94 Banded metamorphic 28 Distance letters rock 29 Be overly fond of (with 97 Apexes “on”) 98 Bat’s fertilizer source 34 Dog collar attachment 99 Problem for a grain 35 Dot in the Atlantic farmer 36 Fit ___ (be just right) 100 Stealthy fellow 37 Superboy’s Lang 101 Relative on mother’s side 39 Hit a fly 103 Make so, legally 40 Dashboard dial, briefly 106 Geisha’s ornamental 41 Acting Kingsley accessory 43 Goalpost-shaped letter 107 Astronaut Armstrong 44 ___-Roman wrestling 108 Truth counterpart 45 Technique-practicing 109 Laundry item piece 110 Great cloud to be on 46 Comic’s question 111 Leads a horse right 47 Dixie dish 50 Country in a Beatles song ©2018 Andrews McMeel Syndicate 2-1-18

Puzzle One Clue: I equals G

CROSSWORD

Puzzle Two Clue: R equals J

SUDOKU

©2018 Universal Uclick

ACROSS

31 Any computer operator 32 Mathematical sub1 Grabs (with “onto”) grouping 6 Cur relative 33 One whose job is murder 10 Climbers’ rocky 35 “___ all work out” obstacles 38 Say over 15 Activity in an online room 41 “Adam ___” (Eliot novel) 19 Neck-ringing event?

42 Common cleaner couple 20 “Young Frankenstein” 44 Swell chap role 45 Humpty Dumpty, 21 Do a debate activity famously 22 Put an edge on 48 Hawaiian porch 23 Homer’s epic (with “The”) 49 Card player’s bullet 24 No ___ traffic 50 Vase on a base 25 Be smitten with 51 Diet ad caption 26 Like all of your relatives 53 “About when” inits.

27 Breakfast couple 54 It may be capped or 30 Sport for the big

chipped 57 Place for mass people?

59 Rabbit-sized rodent of South America 60 Type of ballistic missile (Abbr.)

61 ‘70s boogie-down spots 63 Improve text 64 Couple of editing tasks 71 Highly spiced stew 72 Semi-modern record player 73 Lie form 74 Take on, as mortgage payments 76 Break of day 77 WMD since ‘52

79 “Madam Secretary” network 82 Like an active chimney sweep 83 Chew the fat 84 Melted caramel, e.g.

85 Dazzling display 87 Like two Beethoven symphonies 88 Muffin variety 90 Couple of places 94 Celt on the Isle of Man 95 How some travel between continents 96 About three 97 Your to-do list 100 A Vegas natural

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2018

HOUSE + HOME

A place to call their own

The amenity center is built adjacent to Lakeshore’s lake and offers picturesque views.

The new amenity center in Horizon West’s Lakeshore neighborhood offers more than a place to workout. Homebuilder Toll Brothers hopes it becomes the center of the community.

TROY HERRING ASSOCIATE EDITOR

T

here’s a new addition for those living — or moving into — the Lakeshore community in Horizon West.

With a grand opening in November, the

Lakehouse amenity center had its doors thrown open to the residents in the community. Since then, they have been enjoying the perks of the designer-decorated recreation center.

Courtesy photos

Toll Brothers offers a variety of activities to help neighbors meet one another.

SEE COMMUNITY PAGE 22 BUILDING “ON YOUR LOT”, OAKLAND PARK & BLUE SPRING RESERVE

VISIT OUR WEBSITE or CALL FOR MORE INFORMATION

1st Place winner 2016 GOBA Parade of Homes 1st Place winner 2016 HBA Parade of Homes Florida Green Building Coalition Member and Platinum Level Builder

263850

BUILDING CUSTOM HOMES SINCE 1976

AWARDS

www.jjbuilding.com 407-476-7520

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2018

Community complete CONTINUED FROM PAGE 21

The project had been in the making for a good while, with the start of construction coming a few months after opening for sale, and those at Toll Brothers — the luxury homebuilding company that developed the community — are glad to see it up and serving the needs of community’s residents.

“It brings value to the community — people want to interact with their neighbors,” Toll Brothers Central Florida Division Senior Vice President Brock Fanning said. “It’s kind of like our neighborhood center for the community, to become a community, and that’s what Toll Brothers does — we build communities and we want people to feel like they are a part of it.”

If the goal of Toll Brothers is to help create a sense of community through the 4,132-square-foot facility, then it has easily achieved just that. The center sits adjacent to the property’s lake, which allows for a view of the water.

The location also allows for resi-

dents to take full advantage of the newly constructed dock, where folks can enjoy some time on the water with kayaks, paddleboards or canoes.

The outside area also includes a resort-style swimming pool, a beach volleyball court and a fire pit.

The inside of the amenity center has a few impressive offerings — starting with the state-of-theart fitness and flex room. Treadmills and elliptical machines line one wall of the room, while weight machines and free weights offer residents the ability to work on strength training. The room itself features large windows that allow those working out a clear view of the lake.

But what will probably end up being one of the most-used rooms in the entire facility is the social room with catering kitch-

en. It’s the perfect spot for holding get-togethers and parties — an amenity Fanning said would help build and foster that sense of community that Toll Brothers seeks in its communities.

“We have a breakfast every Saturday in the amenity center to encourage neighbors to come out — we bring bagels and coffee and stuff like that to encourage

Offices in Celebration and Windermere B L U E S K Y R E A LT Y G R O U P

Multi-Lingual Offices

Courtesy photos

Toll Brothers held the grand opening of its Lakehouse amenity center in November.

Top: The fitness center offers treadmills, elliptical machines, weight machines 720 Celebration Avenue, Suite 100, and free weights.

Celebration FL 34747 Facebook.com/Century21Celebration

949 Westpark # 207 Celebration MLS # G4812461 3 bed, 2 bath, 1897 sq ft Fannie Mae Homepath Property Offered at: $299,900

1209 Downey Place Celebration

908 Waterside Dr Celebration

MLS # S4815137 3 bed 2.5 bath 1684 sq ft 2 car garage

MLS # S4816524 5 bed949 3 bath 3051 sq ft Westpark 3 car garage

# 207 Celebration

Point Orlando Resort 2 Bed/2 Bath/1,056 Sq Ft Offered at $315,000 MLS# S4843907

O

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ND

MLS # S4815324 MLS # S4812883 3 bed 3.5 bath 3100 sq ft 2 bed 2 bath 1211 sq ft Downey 1209 Place Townhouse with 2 car garage End unit Water St condo

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910 Spring Park St # 202 Celebration MLS # S4815468 3 bed 2 bath 1460 sq ft Elevator building with 1 car garage Offered at: $296,000

908 Waterside Dr Celebration

Celebration

Offered at: $ 579,000

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1400 Celebration Ave # 406 Celebration

764 Celebration Ave, #2202 Celebration

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1109 Ashbee Ln Celebration

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MLS # S4810845 3 bed 2 bath 1943 sq ft 1 car detached garage

MLS # S4814151 3 bed 2.5 bath 2077 sq ft With 2 Car Garage

MLS # S4812780 2 bed 2 bath 1281 sq ft Fully furnished plus 1 car garage

MLS # S4810946 3 bed 2.5 Bath 2,522 Sq ft Over $60,000 in upgrades

Offered at: $429,900

Offered at: $429,999

Offered at: $235,000

Offered at: $499,000

ED Celebration Ave # 406 1400 C DU Celebration

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MLS # S4810845 3 bed 2 bath 1943 sq ft 1 car detached garage

MLS # S4814151 3 bed 2.5 bath 2077 sq ft With 2 Car Garage

2 bed 2 bath, 1345 sq ft 1 car detached garage

267 Goldenrain Dr, #30-267 Celebration

1211 Stonecutter Dr # 502 Celebration - Artisan Club

MLS # S4809113 3 bed 2.5 bath 2091 sq ft condo. 2 car garage

MLS # S4724783 3 bed 3 bath 1736 sq ft 5th floor condo. 1 car garage

MLS # O5325911 2 bed 2 bath 1435 sq ft 4th floor condo with balcony

MLS # S4726678 2 bed 2 bath 1196 sq ft First floor condo. 1 car garage

Offered at: $275,000

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604 Mulberry Ave # 1101 1410 Celebration Ave # 407 CelebrationOffered Celebration Offered at: $219,900

8766 The Esplanade, #23

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at: $429,900 MLS # S4727247

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MLS # G4812461 MLS # S4815137 Facebook.com/Century21Celebration MLS # S4816524 3 bed 2.5 bath 1684 sq ft 3 bed, 2 bath, 1897 sq ft 5 bed 3 bath 3051 sq ft 2 car garage Fannie Mae Twitter: https://twitter.com/C21BlueSkyFL 3 car garage Homepath Property Offered at: $415,000 Offered at: $ 579,000 Offered at:@C21BlueskyRealtyGroup $299,900 Instagram LinkedIn:Century21BlueSkyRealtyGroup

Offered at: $415,000

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789 Celebration Ave Celebration

1b Lo do

Offered at: $249,000

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MLS # S4814275 2 bed 2.5 bath 1429 sq ft Town Center Condo

PE

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7798 Winter Garden Vineland Road #116 Windermere, FL 34786

RE

Lake Buena Vista Resort 2 Bed/2 Bath/1,060 Sq Ft Offered at $210,000 MLS# S4854310

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7395 Universal Unit #606

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407.566.0555 RE

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Multi-Lingual O Offices in Celebration and Davenp

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interaction,” Fanning said. “We’re having a Super Bowl party there, we do ‘Wine Down Wednesday,’ we do trivia night — we do lots of activities at the community (center).”

Working and building up that sense of community is something that has gone on long before the creation of the amenity center.

The Lakeshore community itself was first established in 2015 and includes 367 townhomes and single-family homes — which range in price depending on which of the five home designs an individual or family picks.

Before the amenity center, the residents who lived in the community took advantage of the park that has a playground and green open space.

“There are a number of parks and walking trails located through the community, but when you build a clubhouse, that’s where the center of socializing with your neighbors tend to happen,” Fanning said.

So far, Fanning’s theory has proven to be accurate, as locals living within Lakeshore have flocked to the amenity center to take in everything that’s offered.

It’s been an absolute home run, Fanning said.

“They love it — they’re excited,” he said. “They get to meet their neighbors, and they love all the activities — for the amount of people that have settled on their home, the amount of activity we have gotten has been amazing.”

Offered at: $235,0

ED

UC

D RE

5010 Autumn Ridge Ct.

FeaturedOver Property investme Remodeled Condo 1 Acre Pool Home Our highly experienced 931 Spring Park - Celebration 1211Loop Stonecutter Dr # 502 267 Goldenrain Dr, #30-267 604 Mulberry Ave # 1410 Celebration Ave # 407from finding the perfect te in Orlando Celebration Club in- Artisan Windermere Celebration Celebration andCelebration maintenanc MLS # S4817743 MLS # S4809113 4 bed 3.5 bath 2817 under air MLS sq # ftS4724783 S4726678 MLS # O5325911 ContactMLS our#office tod 3 Bed/2.5 Bath/2,700 Sq Ft 3 bed 2.5 bath 2091 sq ftCustom Garage, 38’x 26’ 1736 with 33 9’bed Bed/2 Bath/2,090 Sq Ft1435 sq ft 2 bed 2 bathmore 1196a 3 bath sq ft staff to learn 2 bed 2 bath 3 separate garage doors. condo. 2 car garage First floor condo. 1 car 5th floor condo.

1 car garage 4th floor condo with balcony Locally Own Offered at $394,900 Offered at: $275,000 at $399,900 Offered at: $275,0 OfferedOffered atOffered $721,900 at: $329,000 Excellent C Offered at: $219,900 Highly Ex MLS# O5536047 MLS# S4851324

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13720 Budworth Circle Upgraded Home in Eagle’s Creek 4 Bed/3 Bath/2,308 Sq Ft Offered at $399,900 MLS# S4853716

3736 Manteo Circle

6210 Roseate Spoonbill Dr.

Luxury Home in Orista Bay 4 Bed/3 Bath/2,586 Sq Ft Offered at $429,000 MLS# S4854774

Pool Home in Windermere 4 Bed/3.5Bath/3,134 Sq Ft Offered at $517,999 MLS# O5556376

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263912

22

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

|

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2018

23

LUXURY THE WAY YOU WANT IT

Toll Brothers features luxury communities in the most sought-after locations in Central Florida. Choose from elegant designs with hundreds of options that allow you to personalize your home to fit your lifestyle.

LAKESHORE Quick Delivery Homes Available!

Lakeshore is a master planned community in Horizon West featuring luxury townhomes and single-family homes, and The Lakehouse, a state-of-the-art recreation center with resort-style amenities.

Townhomes from the upper $200,000s Executive single-family homes from the upper $300,000s Estate single-family homes from the upper $500,000s 407-778-5200 | 8818 Lakeshore Point Dr, Winter Garden, FL 34787

ROYAL CYPRESS PRESERVE Personalize Your Dream Home Today!

Gated community with outstanding included features, resort-style amenities and low-maintenance living located just minutes from popular area attractions from the mid-$400,000s 407-217-7777 | 10312 Royal Island Court, Orlando, FL 32836

CASABELLA AT WINDERMERE Act Now For Best Home Site Selection!

Luxury, gated community of just 79 estate homes on 1/2-acre home sites from the mid-$900,000s 407-656-3200 | 4326 Isabella Circle, Windermere, FL 34786

TollBrothers.com/West Mon–Sat 10 am–6 pm; Sun 11 am–6 pm. Brokers welcome. Homes available nationwide. Prices subject to change without notice. Photos are images only and should not be relied upon to confirm applicable features. This is not an offering where prohibited by law. CBC1255158

263838

Design trends, tips & more at TollTV.com | Download the Toll Brothers App today

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2018

OrangeObserver.com

264848

24

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2018

25

407-877-FIND (3463) 160 S. Main St. Winter Garden, FL 34787

263883

www.FindWindsor.com

BUY • SELL • PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

WINTER GARDEN CONDO $95,000 Newly remodeled 2 bedroom 2 bath condo. All new appliances, new flooring plus newly remodeled bathrooms. New kitchen cabinets and counter tops. Private balcony and storage room. Easy walk to community pool and mailboxes. 2 assigned parking spaces. Close to bus line, restaurants, shopping (Fowlers Grove), hospitals and banking. Convenient to downtown Winter Garden and the West Orange Trail. Easy access to East/West Expressway, Florida Turnpike and SR 429.

Get hooked on great Service!

WEST ORLANDO POOL HOME $229,900

Trane Comfort Specialists. Quality Work & Customer Satisfaction is our #1 Priority Call us and catch a great deal!

Plenty of room in this lovely pool home with Ocoee schools. On 0.63 acres! Split plan, fireplace, all weather porch and 2 car garage plus attached carport. 288 Sq ft outbuilding behind pool is perfect for storage of pool equipment or make into your own man cave/ she shed!

407-470-7014

SALES • SERVICE • INSTALLATION • MAINTENANCE

MINNEOLA POOL HOME $166,500

“Brand New Air Conditioning” 10-20-2017! In ground pool.

Seller to help with buyers closing cost. No HOA. Pool home with 3 bedrooms and 2 baths. Inside utility room, wood blinds and lots of laminate flooring. Also has a whole house water softener system. Two screened porches (front & back). Large back yard fenced all around with storage shed. Bring your toys. Has outside shower. Close to sought after schools. Close to major roads including new turnpike exit. Can close asap if needed. Did I mention no HOA!

1319 Green Forest Ct, Suite 412 Winter Garden, FL 34787

SOLD

2351 Sq Ft living area. On 1/3 of an acre. Community pool and club house. Spacious home with high ceilings, formal living and dinning rooms, maple cabinetry with Corian countertops with stone backsplash. Stainless steel kitchen appliances. Master suite boasts a tray ceiling and private reading area. This is a must see home. Call for a showing today!

263866

www.DuncansACOrlando.com

263904

OCOEE - 4BR 3BA - GATED COMMUNITY $254,300

FREE In-Home Consultation & Quote

407-734-2971 or visit us online: RBAFLA.com

WINDOWS & PATIO DOORS* plus

To TruScene® Insect Screens† and

†

Only available with select window styles.

*LIMITED TIME OFFER. Not valid with other offers or prior purchases. Save 20% on replacement windows and patio doors when you purchase 3 (three) or more windows and/or doors in the same project. No money down, No payments, No interest for 12 (twelve) months available to well-qualified buyers on approved credit. Any finance terms advertised are estimates only. All financing is provided by third-party lenders. Offer not available in all areas. See sales associate for complete details. License number available upon request.

“Renewal by Andersen” and all other marks where denoted are trademarks of Andersen Corp. © 2017 Renewal by Andersen of Central Florida.

263842

“We replaced our 40 plus year old windows 2 days ago with beautiful windows from Renewal by Andersen. The first night we noticed how quiet the house was! We love the curb appeal it gives our home, energy efficiency and ease of cleaning... We are so glad we choose RbA to replace our windows!”

Shari Lewis of Central FL

Money Down Payments Interest FOR ONE YEAR*

|

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2018

Home Selling Is Easy When You List With The Broker Bryant Team

Isleworth estate sells for $5.1 million MICHAEL ENG EXECUTIVE EDITOR

A

home in the Isleworth community in Windermere topped

all West Orange-area residential real-estate transactions from Jan. 12 to 26.

The home at 9832 Lake Louise Drive, Windermere,

Bryant Tutas and Claudine Hulme, Team Leaders

LAKE BURDEN SOUTH

per square foot is $676.12.

These are the highestselling homes in each community in West Orange.

1106 Brick Rd., Winter Garden, FL 34787

HORIZON WEST

Text/VM: 407-873-2747 • EM: brokerbryant@gmail.com

CARRIAGE POINTE

247812

www.GardenViewsRealty.com

The home at 2011 Redmark Lane, Winter Garden, sold Jan. 23, for $347,500. Built in 2009, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,702 square feet. The price per square foot is $128.61.

Pat Sharr Realty

CARRINGTON

407-656-7947

The townhome at 8641 Via Tavoleria Way, Windermere, sold Jan. 17, for $330,000. Built in 2014, it has five bedrooms, fourand-one-half baths and 2,442 square feet. The price per square foot is $135.14.

MultiMillion Dollar Producer patsharr@aol.com

www.patsharr.com

BUYING A HOME? SELLING YOUR HOME?

CALL US TODAY!

MICHAEL LOWERY Sales Associate

407-558-0461

michael.lowery12@gmail.com

HAMLIN RESERVE

The home at 15439 Shonan Gold Drive, Winter Garden, sold Jan. 19, for $370,000. Built in 2017, it has four bedrooms, two-andone-half baths and 2,302 square feet. The price per square foot is $160.73.

NE W

PR

PE SA ND LE IN G

ICE

WE DON’T CHARGE TRANSACTION FEES!

263774

PAT SHARR

Broker/Owner

407-948-1326

MOTIVATED SELLER’S!!!

SECLUSION AMONG THE TREES!!!

***4.97 ACRES*** 2 BDRM.,2 BA. LOCATED IN WINTER GARDEN!!! **NO HOA**Take a look at this 2 story home!!! First level has bedroom/ bath, the 2nd level is as nice as can be!!! Living room/great room, dining area, kitchen with all appliances,bedroom, bath and laundry room! Wood flooring except the bedroom has carpet, sliding glass door with balcony. Panoramic views of Winter Garden, Clermont and Disney fireworks from the balcony off of the living area. You have your own private driveway and only minutes away from shopping and major highways! Plus an Orange Grove that the Seller’s no longer work, but could have income. Asking only $349,000

The home at 15993 Citrus Knoll Drive, Winter Garden, sold Jan. 24, for $577,000. Built in 2015, it has five bedrooms, four baths, a pool and 3,844 square feet. The price per square foot is $150.10.

!

LD

Take a look at this CUSTOM BUILT 2 STORY BRICK COLONIAL!!! Located on 7.86 acres, bring your horses, cows, chickens or just enjoy all of the land. Open the door to your future, wood flooring, tile in all wet areas, living room, picture window dining room and custom eat-in kitchen includes all appliances, wood cabinets, granite counters and island.

Family room features brick wood burning fireplace for those cozy evenings!

All bedrooms are located on the 2nd floor, master bedroom has French doors leading to the private balcony, enjoy the panoramic views!!! Master bedroom is adjoined by master bath, dual sinks, garden jetted tub and separate shower.

The other 3 bedrooms are centered around the guest bath and the end bedroom also has a private balcony. Located on the first floor also features 1/2 bath and laundry room. Property is fenced and has gated entrance!!! See this property today, get away from all the traffic and noise to quite country living!!!

New roof to be installed!!! Asking Only $ 425,000

JUST LISTED!!!

HICKORY HAMMOCK

SO

LE G! SA DIN N PE

PUT ANOTHER LOG IN THE FIREPLACE!!!

*NEW STAINLESS STEEL APPLIANCES***$2,000 TOWARD BUYER CLOSING COSTS/PRE-PAIDS***JUST FRESHLY PAINTED!!! LARGE SPARKLING POOL/SPA!!!

GATED COMMUNITY!!! Nothing to do here but bring your furniture!!! This home is located in BROOKESTONE in Ocoee, 4 Bedrooms-3 Baths, Foyer, Dining Room, Living Room, Breakfast Nook, Family Room, Kitchen has 42” cabinets, Large Pantry, Breakfast bar, brand new appliances, washer & dryer in laundry room, 3 way split bedroom plan!!!

Master bedroom features adjoining area that could be used as a sitting area, workout area and features sliding glass doors leading to the covered brick paver and open lanai. Master bath features jetted tub, separate shower and double vanities. The 3 way split bedroom plan with 2 of the guest bedrooms centered around the guest bath. The 4th bedroom w/ bath could be a Mother-In-Law suite or private guest bedroom. This is a MUST see, very convenient to shopping, schools and all major highways!!! asking $352,000

MR. & MRS. CLEAN LIVE HERE!!! 4BDRM., 2.5 BA. 2 STORY POOL HOME!!!This is a picturesque setting, very well maintained landscaped yard and a superb interior.

Inside you will find a ceramic tiled foyer, living/dining room that is currently being used as a living room, the kitchen features range, refrigerator, dishwasher and disposal all are staying. Inside laundry room, large walk-in pantry. Breakfast area with sliding glass doors leading to the screened lanai. Family room with wood flooring and large enough for everyday living!!! Also featured is a half bath on the first floor. Upstairs you will find the huge master bedroom adjoined by the master bath, garden tub, dual sinks, separate shower and large walk-in closet. The other 3 bedrooms are centered around the guest bath, dual sinks, tub with shower. Lets go back down stairs and out to the screened lanai and sparkling pool, no rear neighbors right in your back yard! ASKING ONLY $279,000

JANUARY/FEBRUARY SPECIAL!!!

WITH EVERY NEW LISTING!!!

PAT SHARR REALTY WILL PROVIDE A HOME WARRANTY FOR THE BUYER WHEN YOUR HOME SELLS!!!

INDEPENDENCE/SIGNATURE LAKES

one-half baths, a pool and 7,543 square feet. The price

Our Team is standing by ready to go to work for you!!

2015, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,672 square feet. The price per square foot is $136.60.

four bedrooms, five-and-

lion. Built in 2011, it has

• 45 Day Listing Guarantee • Listening Presentation • Human Touch Property Evaluation • No Stone Unturned Marketing

Total Sales: 151 High Sale Price: $5.1 million Low Sale Price: $63,000 REO/Bank Owned: Two Auction/REO: One Short Sale: One

The home at 6252 Sunset Isle Drive, Winter Garden, sold Jan. 24, for $595,000. Built in 2015, it has five bedrooms, three-andone-half baths and 2,591 square feet. The price per square foot is $229.64.

sold Jan. 16, for $5.1 mil-

Ask about our...

SNAPSHOT

The home at 15582 Hamlin Blossom Ave., Winter Garden, sold Jan. 24, for $365,000. Built in

The home at 11533 Brickyard Pond Lane, Windermere, sold Jan. 23, for $625,000. Built in 2014, it has five bedrooms, four-andone-half baths and 3,451 square feet. The price per square foot is $181.11.

LAKE SAWYER SOUTH

The home at 13219 Jervey St., Windermere, sold Jan. 19, for $364,000. Built in 2007, it has four bedrooms, three-andone-half baths and 2,750 square feet. The price per square foot is $132.36.

LAKESHORE

The home at 15750 Shorebird Lane, Winter Garden, sold Jan. 12, for $862,737. Built in 2017, it has five bedrooms, four-andone-half baths and 4,091 square feet. The price per square foot is $210.89.

SANCTUARY AT HAMLIN

The home at 7506 Mandarin Grove Way, Winter Garden, sold Jan. 19, for $360,000. Built in 2017, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,523 square feet. The price per square foot is $142.69.

SUMMERLAKE

The home at 15497 Sweet Orange Ave., Winter Garden, sold Jan. 26 for $371,550. Built in 2017, it has three bedrooms, two-andone-half baths and 2,617 square feet. The price per square foot is $141.98.

SUMMERPORT

The home at 4636 River Gem Ave., Windermere, sold Jan. 19, for $323,000. Built in 2006, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,781 square feet. The price per square foot is $116.15.

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2018

trulia.com

This Isleworth home, at 9832 Lake Louise Drive, Windermere, sold Jan. 16, for $5.1 million. This home offers views of Lake Louise from nearly every room.

WEST LAKE HANCOCK ESTATES

The home at 14283 Colonial Pointe Drive, Winter Garden, sold Jan. 24, for $557,032. Built in 2017, it has four bedrooms, three-andone-half baths, a pool and 3,985 square feet. The price per square foot is $139.78.

The home at 14370 Black Tea Drive, Winter Garden, sold Jan. 22, for $385,000. Built in 2015, it has four bedrooms, two-andone-half baths and 2,937 square feet. The price per square foot is $131.09.

Courtesy photo

This Deer Island home, at 17704 Deer Isle Circle, Winter Garden, sold Jan. 26, for $755,000. This home features a long driveway, pool and patio areas crafted with brick pavers and sits on an acre of land.

BROOKESTONE

BRONSON’S LANDING

EMERALD ACRES

KENSINGTON MANOR

CARRIAGE POINTE

FULLERS OAK

The home at 2108 Tillman Ave., Winter Garden, sold Jan. 19, for $440,000. Built in 2007, it has four bedrooms, four baths and 3,078 square feet. The price per square foot is $142.95.

The home at 3412 Bromfield Drive, Ocoee, sold Jan. 12, for $337,500. Built in 2005, it has five bedrooms, four baths, a pool and 3,359 square feet. The price per square foot is $100.48.

The home at 1857 Jean Marie Drive, Winter Garden, sold Jan. 24, for $367,000. Built in 2007, it has four bedrooms, four baths and 3,269 square feet. The price per square foot is $112.27.

MEADOW RIDGE

DEER ISLAND

The home at 439 Anessa Rose Loop, Ocoee, sold Jan. 23, for $445,000. Built in 2009, it has four bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths, a pool and 2,939 square feet. The price per square foot is $151.41.

WINDSONG LANDING

The home at 17704 Deer Isle Circle, Winter Garden, sold Jan. 26, for $755,000. Built in 2015, it has four bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 3,276 square feet. The price per square foot is $230.46.

AVALON RESERVE

The home at 1005 Vinsetta Circle, Winter Garden, sold Jan. 15, for $435,000. Built in 2016, it has seven bedrooms, four-andone-half baths and 4,731 square feet. The price per square foot is $91.95.

The home at 1779 Fullers Oak Loop, Winter Garden, sold Jan. 19, for $452,000. Built in 2017, it has five bedrooms, three baths and 3,467 square feet. The price per square foot is $130.37.

So local, it feels like your garage!

OAKS AT BRANDY LAKE

The home at 701 Brandy Oaks Loop, Winter Garden, sold Jan. 23, for $384,900.

Built in 2008, it OWNER’S TITLE INSURANCE has fourYOU… bedrooms, three-andPROTECTS one-half YOUR KIDS…baths, a pool and 3,059 square feet. The price per square YOUR GRANDKIDS… foot is $125.83.

Call Today!

YOUR GREAT-GRANDKIDS AND…

The home at 233 Calliope St., Ocoee, sold Jan. 16, for $470,000.

Built in 2004, it has four bedrooms, four baths and 3,814 square feet. The price per square foot is $123.23.

WINTER GARDEN

The home at 120 Temple Grove Drive, Winter Garden, sold Jan. 22, for $377,000. Built in 2010, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,298 square feet. The price per square foot is $164.06.

The home at 17729 Deer Isle SUNSET LAKES Circle, Winter Garden, sold Jan. The home at 13549 Sunset Lakes 22, for $650,000. Built in 1994, YOU GET THE IDEA.sold Jan. Circle, Winter Garden, it has four bedrooms, two-and- WELL, 26, for $485,000. Built in 1997, it one-half baths, a pool and 3,064 has four bedrooms, three baths, square feet. The price per square a pool and 2,742 square feet. The foot is $212.14. price per square foot is $176.88.

IN WINTER GARDEN

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DEERFIELD PLACE

stoneybrookwestss@cfl.rr.com

The home at 519 Spring Leap WINTER OAKS The home at 914 Chapel Oaks Circle, Winter Garden, sold Jan. Court, Winter Garden, sold Jan. 18, for $324,000. Built in 2004, it has five bedrooms, four baths and 22, for $330,000. Built in 2004, it has three bedrooms, two-and3,439 square feet. The price per one-half baths and 2,230 square square foot is $94.21.

Get your ALTA title insurance is one of the Getting owner’s Homebuyer Guide atdecisions feet.

The price per smartest and easiest you’ll makesquare foot is alta.org/homebuyer. as a homebuyer. It’s a one-time purchase that $147.98. protects your property rights as long as you

IN OCOEE

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or your heirs own your home.

For more information, ask an ALTA member or visit homeclosing101.org.

You. Your Neighbors.

Your Neighborhood.

•

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2015

Sean O’Neill launched the Facebook group, Winter Garden — Rants, Raves and Reviews, 18 months ago. Story on 13.

ALL FIRED UP Winter Garden single mom Erin Akers has found her passion — firefighting.

West Orange High thespians dish up a spoonful of sugar.

R

appelling down the side of a sevenstory building was easy for Erin Akers because she’s not afraid of heights, but confined-spaces training was a bit of a challenge for the Winter Garden resident, who is working toward becoming a firefighter.

YOUR TOWN ALUMNI MEET ON GRIDIRON

HISPANIC HERITAGE Ocoee is celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month through Oct. 15. The month recognizes the contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans to the United States. Motorists traveling on Clarke Road will see festive “Ocoee Celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month” pole banners dotting the street.

Viewers can tune in to Ocoee TV to watch a fourpart series titled “Latino Americans: The 500-Year Legacy that Shaped a Nation.” The show will air at 10:30 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays on Channel 493, Bright House Networks.

David Haynes

Erin Akers is nearly finished with her firefighting training, and then she’s hoping to get a position with a local fire department. She and her 6-year-old son, Liam, live in Winter Garden.

Parker Boudreaux chooses Notre Dame — much to the delight of longtime supporters of his school.

SEE STORY ON 25

ADVOCATE FOR HOMEBUYERS.

Car-show organizers search for new sponsor The Sept. 19 Cruz-N-Car Show in downtown Winter Garden might have been the last.

ZAK KERR STAFF WRITER WINTER GARDEN Droves drove to the large parking lot on West Plant Street for what might have been the last Cruz-N-Car Show, a tradition each third Saturday of the month for about seven years.

The longstanding sponsorship of the show from the Winter Garden Merchants Association ended recently, based on cost increases that caused the association to lose money with the show each

Courtesy photo

A lack of sponsorship has led to the possible finale of a monthly downtown Winter Garden car show fervently supported among community members.

ADVERTISE OR SUBSCRIBE TODAY! SEE CAR SHOW PAGE 4

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PEACE OF MIND. WE ASSURE THAT LAND TRANSFER IS

STORY ON PAGE 4

Two former West Orange Wildcats and West Orange Warrior football players competed in a recent SEC game.

Garrett “Juice” Johnson is a wide receiver for the Kentucky Wildcats, and Sean Kelly is a punter for the South Carolina Gamecocks.

With them is Eric Poole, who was one of their coaches during their Wildcats years.

WE INSPECT TITLES AND

WE ARE THE AUTHORITY IN REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS.

AMY QUESINBERRY RHODE COMMUNITY EDITOR

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EXPEDITIOUS AND SECURE. OUR COMMITMENT TO EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE

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JoAnne Quarles, C.L.C. office 407.654.8811 cell 407.758.4479

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Visit us in our NEW location!

Suite 200B in the TD Bank Building 12200 W. Colonial Drive Winter Garden, FL 34787

For more information about owner’s title insurance, ask Treasure Title, an ALTA member.

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INSPIRED DESIGN Read about our new look. Page 8

YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.

Meet the man in the rave cave ARTS+CULTURE

THE PROTECTORS OF PROPERTY RIGHTS.

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The home at 773 Huntington Pines Drive, Ocoee, sold Jan. 18, for $325,000. Built in 2003, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,720 square feet. The price per square foot is $119.49.

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OCOEE

149 Woodland St. • Winter Garden, FL 34787 | License & Insured

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2018

Start from Scratch Serve up the best meals of your life in the house of your dreams.

It’s good to be finally home.

FREE $10,000 KITCHEN PACKAGE WHEN YOU PURCHASE A NEW TAYLOR MORRISON HOME*

Stop by any Orlando area community Sales Office to find your dream home and get cooking.

It’s said the kitchen is the heart of the home.

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Now through March 31st, purchase a to-be-built home at a select Orlando area Taylor Morrison community and you’ll receive a beautiful kitchen upgrade, complete with a French door refrigerator, built-in oven and microwave, gourmet cook top GE Café™ Series appliances.

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*Limited time Kitchen Package (up to $10,000 ARV) (“Kitchen Incentive”). Options offered and actual value of the Kitchen Incentive may vary by floor plan and community based upon Taylor Morrison’s current offerings. Valid only at participating Orlando Taylor Morrison communities on select to-be-built cash or financed homes purchased as of 2/3/18 - 3/31/18 (Promotion Period). Offer is not valid at Thornbrooke Towns. Potential savings of up to $10,000 to be applied toward Buyer-selected Options only and valid only upon Closing (and satisfaction of all eligibility criteria), as reflected on the Closing Disclosure or settlement statement, as applicable. Any unused portion of this Kitchen Incentive may not be used towards a reduction in the Purchase Price or structural options and will be forfeited

by Buyer. Not valid outside of the Promotion Period or in any other Community. Kitchen Incentive may not be combined with any other offer, unless expressly set forth in Buyer’s Purchase Agreement Documents. For financed buyers, all lender restrictions shall apply. No other discounts, incentives, offers, coupons, substitutions, etc. will apply, except as expressly agreed to in the Purchase Agreement. Additional restrictions (including those of lenders for financed buyers) may apply. All community and home information (including, but not limited to prices, views, availability, school assignments and ratings, incentives, floor plans, site plans, features, standards and options, assessments and fees, planned amenities, programs, conceptual artists’ renderings and community development plans) is not guaranteed and remains subject to change or delay without notice. As-built plans shall control. All eligibility decisions by Seller are final. All special offers or incentive programs subject to change prior to contract. Pricing shown may not include options, upgrades and lot or elevation premiums. Please see a Taylor Morrison Community Sales Manager or your Internet Home Consultant and your purchase agreement for community specific details or visit taylormorrison.com for additional disclaimers. Additional details and restrictions may apply. Offer void where prohibited or otherwise restricted by law. © January, 2018, Taylor Morrison of Florida, Inc., CBC1257462. All rights reserved.

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