03.03.16 Windermere Observer

WINDERMERE

Observer Serving Southwest Orange County

Holy Family celebrates Catholic Schools Week.

See page 15A

YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.

VOLUME 1, NO. 23

ARTS+CULTURE

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THURSDAY, MARCH 3, 2016

Making magic happen Mark Kaley founded Wishes Needs & Dreams to help low-income theme-park and resort workers. Page 9A

Trio of talent set to take stage at Garden Theatre.

Lakeland LEAP

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HOUSE + HOME

Local receives Gator100 Award for his apartmentfinding business.

SEE STORY, PAGE 1B

YOUR TOWN Seeing double Michael Eng

Move over, Lambeau! Just minutes after winning the Class 3A state basketball title, Windermere Prep senior guard Parker Davis jumped into the stands Feb. 25 at the Lakeland Center to celebrate with friends and fans. See complete coverage in Sports, 17A.

Russ Salerno, of West Orange County, and Lana Stoffer, of Pine Hills, announce the arrival of their great-great-grandchildren, Braxton and Maddox Marques, born Feb. 1.

Braxton weighed 5.45 pounds, and Maddox weighed 4.3 pounds.

Their parents are Amie and Jose Marques, of Tampa, formerly of Southwest Orlando.

Developer unveils design for Lakeside Village park A nine-acre park between Iron Mountain Trail and Village Lake Road could face a Board of County Commissioners vote this year.

ZAK KERR STAFF WRITER HORIZON W E ST

PRSRT STD ECRWSS US POSTAGE PAID WINTER GARDEN, FL PERMIT NO. 81

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Program Development Supervisor John Connell said the nine acres in the middle of Iron Mountain Trail, Village Lake Road and Lake Spar were unique, with varying experiences in store for locals

once it opens as Lakeside Village Neighborhood Park.

Connell revealed his plans for the park Feb. 29 at the third community meeting at TibetButler Preserve about the project.

Plans incorporated a survey SEE LAKESIDE PAGE 4A

Southwest Orange’s Rosen JCC unveils new facility with gala, performances. SEE PAGE 13A

WINDERMERE OBSERVER

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YOU R CALENDAR

THURSDAY, MARCH 3

SEUSSVILLE CELEBRATION 3:30 p.m. Thursday, March 3, at the Windermere Library, 530 Main St. Come one, come all to the Seussville Ball. Filled with fun and wonderful things, the stories and crafts will make you sing. Ages 6-12. (407) 8357323.

FRIDAY, MARCH 4

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 3, 2016

AARP FREE TAX PREPARATION 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Fridays, March 4 through April 11, at the West Oaks Library, 1821 E. Silver Star Road, Ocoee. AARP offers assistance to anyone 50 and older who can’t afford a taxpreparation service.

Participants must bring all tax documents plus a copy of last year’s tax return, a governmentissued photo

ID card and a Social Security card for each person listed on the return. Appointments are not necessary. (407) 835-7323.

THE BAND UKIAH 9:30 p.m. Friday, March 4, at Dexter’s of Windermere, 4757 The Grove Drive, Windermere.

Visit windermere.dexwine.com.

SATURDAY, MARCH 5

DOWN BEAT 9:30 p.m. Saturday, March 5, at Dexter’s of Windermere, 4757 The Grove Drive, Windermere.

Visit windermere.dexwine.com.

FORCE, MOTION AND YOU 11 a.m. Saturday, March 5, at the Windermere Library, 530 Main St. Ages 3 to 5 can have fun exploring the science behind force and motion through hands-on activities and more. (407) 835-7323.

ONP INSECT SAFARI: THE BUGS WE EAT 10 a.m. Saturday, March 5, at the Oakland Nature Preserve, 747 Machete Trail.

Learn about the bugs that are consumed every day and then go on an insect safari and encounter the bugs around the preserve. All ages invited.

Meet in the classroom. Cost is free for ONP members, $5 for others. Register at oaklandnaturepreserve.org or (407) 905-0054.

TASTE OF WINDERMERE 6 to 9 p.m., Saturday, March 5, at The Grove, 4744 S Apopka Vineland Road, Orlando. The Central Florida Women’s League presents the sixth annual Taste of Windermere. Proceeds benefit Central Florida charities and scholarships for local students. $75 in advance; $80 at the door. Purchase tickets at cfwl. org.

TUESDAY, MARCH 8

SMALL BUSINESS AND ENTREPRENEUR RESOURCE FAIR 9 a.m. to noon Tuesday, March 8, at Soiree Event and Conference Center, 6394 Silver Star Road, Orlando. Talk to small-business resource partners who can help start or grow a small business. Kea Cherfrere, (407) 836-6267 or kea.cherfrere@ocfl.net.

THURSDAY, MARCH 10

SECOND ANNUAL FAMILY BINGO NIGHT 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, March 10, at Rosen JCC of Southwest Orlando, 11184 S. Apopka-Vineland Road, Orlando. Tickets are $25 or $20 for JCC members; includes dinner and two bingo cards. For more, visit rosenjcc. org.

SUNDAY, MARCH 6

PEDAL FOR PAL HOT PURSUIT CHARITY BICYCLE EVENT 5:30 a.m. Sunday, March 6, starting in downtown Winter Garden. The Winter Garden Police Department and the Police Athletic League’s event will support its free PAL summer camp and Holiday Gifts for Kids programs.

Routes are designated for 10, 25, 65 and 100 miles. The registration fee ($27 to $45) includes breakfast, lunch, smoothies, massages, T-shirt and music. Register at Active. com and search Hot Pursuit.

(407) 656-3636.

THURSDAY, MARCH 10

WEST ORANGE REPUBLICAN WOMEN FEDERATED 11:30 a.m. Thursday, March 10, at West Orange Country Club, 3300 West Orange Country Club Drive, Winter Garden. The guest speaker is

U.S. Rep. Daniel Webster, who will provide an update on the nation’s capital. Doors open and buffet begins at 11:30, and the meeting is from noon to 1:30 p.m. Lunch is $20. RSVP to Carolyn Sparks at (407) 248-9559 or (407) 230-3856.

For information, email to worw. federated@gmail.com.

FRIDAY, MARCH 19

ST. PATRICK’S DAY CELTIC FESTIVAL 11 a.m. Thursday, March 17, through 11 p.m. Friday, March 19, at the Crooked Can Brewing Company, 426 W. Plant St., Winter Garden.

Large beer garden, Celtic food, Highland games and more.

(407) 395-9520.

The FACES of Heart Failure • Fatigue • Activities Limited • Chest congestion • Edema or ankle swelling • Shortness of breath

Trust your HEART to the Cardiovascular Team of Experts Close to Home at Orlando Health – Health Central Hospital

Connect to health at

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THURSDAY, MARCH 3, 2016

WHAT IS WINDERMERE?

WINDERMERE COUNTRY CLUB Like many entities in the area bearing the Windermere name, Windermere Country Club is technically just outside the town to the west.

WINDERMERE TRAVEL This business near the Millennia area in Orlando might win the contest for farthest area entity to use Windermere in its name.

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Lake Down

Lake Butler Blvd.

Conroy-Windermere

Lake Butler

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WINDERMERE PREP As many attest to, this high school is part of the West Windermere Rural Settlement, but it is the entire expanse of Lake Butler away from Windermere. Lake Butler also happens to be the name of the area in which the school is actually located.

e int r Garden-Vin eland

Chase Road

ISLEWORTH Although the richest community in West Orange County certainly lives up to the hype, associating it with Windermere is erroneous — it is actually Windermere’s first neighbor to the southeast in unincorporated Orange County. Keene’s Pointe is even farther south.

Lake Tibet

WINDERMERE CAY Across a creek from this south Horizon West apartment complex on Reams Road is Walt Disney World — decidedly not Windermere — and the apartments have a Winter Garden mailing address, anyway.

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Ro ad ZIP code information provided by Google Maps

Town of Windermere Windermere address 34786

Windermere or Windernear?

2010 CENSUS POPULATIONS ZIP CODE 34786 2,462 Town of Windermere

For most with a Windermere mailing address, the answer is the latter.

ZAK KERR STAFF WRITER

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or a town with an estimated population of 3,113 residents as of 2013 on an isthmus of not quite three square miles, there are many who claim to live in Windermere.

The misconception stems mainly from the mailing address of the same name, which covers surrounding areas of unincorporated Orange County.

Most notable is the booming population growth in Horizon West — basically everyone north of Walt Disney World, west of Winter Garden-Vineland Road (County Road 535) and south of Winter Garden and Lake Avalon Rural Settlement — with thousands of newcomers unaware that the municipal limits of Windermere and Winter Garden actually end far east and north of their ZIP codes, which were established when West Orange County had an exponentially sparser population.

“I think at last count, there’s 33,000 people with a Windermere

mailing address,” Windermere Mayor Gary Bruhn said. “I know staff and I have gotten a number of phone calls — you know, there’s so much construction going on out in the Horizon West area — and so many of those individuals out there think they live in Windermere. They’ll call us and complain about construction.”

More difficult to explain than Horizon West is the area called Lake Butler CDP — so named for the water body that anchors Windermere’s chain of lakes. That CDP surrounds Windermere, consisting of virtually all enclaves separating Windermere from Gotha, Ocoee, Winter Garden, Horizon West and Bay Hill.

The boundaries separating this area from Windermere are Chase Road south of 13th Avenue, the southern side of ConroyWindermere Road, the western tip of Park Avenue, Wonder Lane near Park Ridge Gotha Road and — ironically — the start of the northbound portion comprising the majority of Windermere Road.

Beyond traffic, this matters for any representation of local citizens, especially the ultimate representation at the polls,

Bruhn said.

“During elections, people just assume that they’re voting at the Town Hall, based on their driver’s license,” Bruhn said. “When they come to register, we tell them, ‘Well, you’re actually in a different precinct. You have to go vote there.’”

Even crime outside town borders gets misattributed to the town and the Windermere Police Department — including in local TV news, Bruhn said.

THE BRAND

There are two similar yet distinct ideals the general public associates with Windermere, but only one applies to the actual town.

“People who stop and visit for the first time like it because it evokes a small-town feel,” Bruhn said. “The trees and the natural beauty of the lakes is what the Windermere brand is, basically.”

This includes modest homes on the town’s many dirt roads and a few subdivisions. But it does not include any of the country clubs in Lake Butler that most of the rest of Central Florida — and the world — associates with Windermere.

The power of this latter brand,

N

10,230 Other unincorporated

15,400 Lake Butler

Note: Not quite all of Lake Butler is in 34786, but almost all. Actual 34786 census data would vary only slightly, with more of the shown Lake Butler population in the “Other unincorporated” population, but data this specific is not easily obtainable. The town population is exact.

which spills into all surrounding areas and municipalities, has created a misconception that only the richest of the richest live in Windermere.

Although town staff has been communicating with county staff about possible annexations, that notion remains false.

But maybe in the coming years a few hundred more of the 33,000 residents with a Windermere mailing address will be able to call themselves citizens of Windermere — and be accurate.

Contact Zak Kerr at zkerr@orangeobserver.com.

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THURSDAY, MARCH 3, 2016

Horizon West park will be unique of Orange County residents to determine what amenities to add.

Based on the lake and several large oaks and pines in the park area, Connell’s design includes a dock and a quiet space amid the trees for reflection.

“Once you stand under these trees, it’s incredible,” Connell said.

“I’ve been down there three times, and it’s a really nice spot.”

Near that area will be a gazebo, a picnic area and a tree buffer, Connell said. Other features include an open field with a sidewalk around it, myriad exercise stations, playground equipment, swings, trail extensions, numerous trees for shade and maybe a sand volleyball court.

Plans generally thrilled residents, whose primary concern was traffic, especially considering high speeds as cars emerge from the Reams Road roundabout onto streets such as Village Lake Road.

Connell said a series of trees along that side of the park would be a focus, as well as placing the sidewalk on the downslope away from the street to evoke an increased sense of separation.

District 1 Orange County Commissioner S. Scott Boyd said many residents had contacted his office about that two-lane roundabout, where county staff have been observing traffic and considering a mid-block crossing, signage and other options.

This concern tied into another about parking availability, with as many as 54 spaces available around the park and the possibility

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 Community Editor / Amy Quesinberry Rhode, aqrhode@OrangeObserver.com Senior Sports Editor / Steven Ryzewski, sryzewski@OrangeObserver.com Staff Writers Danielle Hendrix, dhendrix@OrangeObserver.com Zak Kerr, zkerr@OrangeObserver.com Jennifer Nesslar, Courtesy

Plans call for an open space, playgrounds and exercise stations in Phase I of Lakeside Village Park construction.

spending the holidays basking in Florida’s warm weather is a treat.

But on Dec. 29, 2015, what was supposed to be a relaxing evening poolside for New York native John Mendez quickly and unexpectedly turned into something serious — anaphylactic shock.

Mendez, a New York Fire Department captain, owns a condo off Sand Lake Road and visits the Orlando area four times each year with his family. While they were down spending their Christmas break, Mendez had a run-in with a horde of fire ants.

“My friend drove in from New York and happens to be a doctor,” Mendez said. “(Our families) decided to go down to the pool, which is walking distance, (but) we decided to drive to the pool.

And when we got there, we sat under an awning before we moved our chairs to the edge of the pool, which is surrounded by paving stones.”

Unbeknownst to them, there was a colony of fire ants two feet under the ground nearby. The cracks between the paving stones were infiltrated with fire ants, and when Mendez had his bare feet resting on the ground, the ants crept up and covered his foot.

“The doctor told me what they do is cover and simultaneously inject you with formic acid to try to get you to drop,” he said of the ants. “I’m very careful on the grass; I never expected it to be around the pool.”

jnesslar@OrangeObserver.com Advertising Executives Bill Carter, bcarter@OrangeObserver.com

of Orange County Public Schools allowing parking at certain times near the elementary school lot across Iron Mountain Trail.

Residents said an abundance of parks with tot lots in Orange County underserved teens and left little to nothing for them to do at parks. Connell suggested adding tasteful skateboard-friendly additions, such as special sidewalk innovations.

Connell said the total cost would be around $800,000 unless additional grading is necessary, all funded but developed in two

New York Fire Department Captain John Mendez had a horde of fire ants join — and swarm — him poolside.

STAFF WRITER DR. PHILLIPS For most northerners,

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.”

phases based on budget timing.

He proposed the open field, playground area and exercise stations for Phase I, with the rest saved for Phase II toward Lake Spar.

Resident Tamara Forrester said a dock would be ideal to have in Phase I, based on a scarcity of those in Horizon West. Boyd said there could be a consideration for what order crews construct aspects in before voting on this park occurs at a Board of County Commissioners meeting in several months. Connell said designers

Fire ants attack fire captain DANIELLE HENDRIX

WEST ORANGE TIMES &

As ants covered his foot, he immediately stuck it in the pool — when he pulled it out, it was swollen. Just minutes later, symptoms of anaphylactic shock — a severe allergic reaction that can be fatal — kicked in.

“Within maybe two minutes, I felt my heart beating fast; I felt my blood pressure going up; I felt flushed,” he said. “I had hives all over body, I was very itchy, and my lips got swollen. I felt like someone punched me in the mouth. I also felt tight in the chest and had difficulty breathing.”

His friend’s medical training immediately kicked in; he grabbed Mendez and quickly put him in the car, driving him to Dr. P. Phillips Hospital. By chance, the friend had liquid Benadryl in his car for his kids. He gave Mendez two tablespoons of it on the way over, subsiding the swelling on his mouth.

Once at the hospital, Mendez was assessed in triage and taken back on a stretcher, where he received IV fluids, Benadryl and prednisone steroids. The reaction quickly subsided, and Mendez was out in an hour.

Although he has no allergies and has been bitten by fire ants previously, as a fire captain and paramedic Mendez has treated people with severe allergic reactions. He said the sudden swarm of ants and simultaneous injection of their venom is enough to bring anyone into shock.

“The doctor told me about 100 of these bites from 100 ants will kill someone,” he said. “They

won’t bite individually if they’re swarming. It’s incredible how a little tiny ant can bring you down.”

Dr. Antonio Crespo, an infectious disease physician at Dr. Phillips Hospital, said anyone who may encounter such insects — allergies or not — should be aware of their presence and take precautions to prevent such incidences.

“We live in an area where we do a lot of outdoor activities and are exposed to a lot of insect bites,” he said. “Being aware of that and doing proper lawn treatments to try to control the population of fire ants or other insects is very important. If you do get bitten, be aware of the possible reaction and take the precautions; look for medical attention.”

And as for his medical treatment, Mendez planned to visit the doctors who took care of him and thank them personally.

“I wanted to thank them for helping me out,” he said. “I know what it’s like: I’ve been in many ERs taking patients there, and you don’t get any thanks from the job.

I knew they had a tough day, too.

They actually saved my life.”

Contact Danielle Hendrix at dhendrix@orangeobserver.com.

had not determined what material to make the dock from, but they had decided on an expression swing and an inclusive swing to better include teens and parents with youths using the swings.

Connell said if each remaining phase — with permitting as the next step — would occur smoothly, the park would be on track to open in spring 2017 as Phase I, with hopes to add Phase II soon thereafter.

Contact Zak Kerr at zkerr@ orangeobserver.com.

SYMPTOMS OF ANAPHYLACTIC SHOCK n Change in blood pressure n Closure of throat n Confusion n Difficulty breathing n Increased heart rate n Itching n Rash/hives n Redness n Swelling n Wheezing WHAT TO DO IF IT HAPPENS TO YOU Dr. Antonio Crespo said in the case of anaphylactic shock, the first objective is to rapidly try to go to an emergencyservices facility — such as a hospital emergency room — or urgent care. Additionally, taking Benadryl or another anti-histaminic agent as soon as possible will help stop the cascade of the allergen.

Additionally, there is a self-injection pen filled with epinephrine — commonly called adrenaline — that you can carry with you, available by prescription. Once at a hospital the team will assess and start giving fluids, antihistamines, epinephrine or steroids, which will get the reaction back under control.

Kim Edwards, kedwards@OrangeObserver. com Cyndi Gustafson, advertising@OrangeObserver.com Creative Services Tony Trotti, ttrotti@OrangeObserver.com Andrés Tam, atam@OrangeObserver.com Customer Service Representatives Sarah Felt, sfelt@OrangeObserver.com Allison Brunelle, abrunelle@OrangeObserver.com

CONTACT US The West Orange Times & Observer is published once weekly, on Thursdays. It provides subscription home delivery. The West Orange Times & Observer also can be found in many commercial locations throughout West Orange County and at our office, 720 S. Dillard St., Winter Garden.

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

TO ADVERTISE For display or digital advertising, call Cyndi Gustafson, (321) 239-3252, Kim Edwards, (407) 656-2121 or Bill Carter at (407) 656-2121.

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To contact us, send your information via email to Michael Eng, meng@ OrangeObserver.com.

WEST ORANGE TIMES The West Orange Times & Observer (USPS 687-120) is published weekly for $29 per year ($40 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. Opinions in the West Orange Times & Observer are those of the individual writer and are not necessarily those of the West Orange Times & Observer, its publisher or editors. Mailed letters must by typed and include the author’s signature and phone number. Letters to the editor are subject to editing for space and grammar and become the property of the newspaper.

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THURSDAY, MARCH 3, 2016

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15-WO-02984

OrangeObserver.com

Florida Hospital is the #1-ranked hospital in Florida for the third year in a row.

NOW OPEN FL O R ID A HOS PIT A L W IN T E R G A R DE N

#1-RANKED HOSPITAL NOW SERVING WEST ORANGE COUNTY. Our new facility features state-of-the-art technology and board-certified physicians trained in the treatment of both adults and children. This hospital-based emergency room specializes in treating chest pain, heart attacks, strokes and orthopaedic injuries as well as other major conditions. Outpatient imaging, lab and surgical services, as well as primary care and specialty physician offices are also available — all in one convenient location.

Visit FloridaHospital.com/wintergarden to find out more.

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2000 Fowler Grove Boulevard, Winter Garden, FL 34787 | (407) 303-1700

15-WO-02984_FHWG West Orange Times - Windermere Observer 3/3.indd 1

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THURSDAY, MARCH 3, 2016

Webster will run elsewhere

CRITT E R CO RNER

District 10 Rep. Daniel Webster (R) will run for the District 11 seat this year instead of defending his redrawn district.

ZAK KERR STAFF WRITER WEST ORANGE COUNTY

Don’t be fooled by his name. Monkey (ID# A341746) is a calm cat who loves to be held and will purr while you pet him. He is 2 years old and perfect for someone looking for an affectionate lap cat.

Orange County Animal Services is located at 2769 Conroy Road in Orlando, near the Mall at Millenia. The shelter is open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Sundays.

This month, adopters choose a gold coin out of a bucket in honor of the “Luck of the Paw” adoption promotion. The coin displays the fee, which is $5, $10, $15 or free.

For more information, call (407) 836-3111 or visit ocnetpets.com.

Critter Corner showcases local animals available for adoption. If you run a shelter or animal rescue and wish to participate, contact Staff Writer Jennifer Nesslar, jnesslar@orangeobserver.com.

Rep. Daniel Webster (R), who has represented much of West Orange County in Florida’s 10th District from a base in Winter Garden, has announced his decision to run for election in an expanded 11th District this year.

“I’m running for another term in Congress because there is still much to be done to reform the process and fix what is broken in Washington,” Webster said. “For the past five years, I have fought to change the power-based, staffdriven congressional process into one based upon principles. Last year, I ran for speaker against John Boehner and the powerful Washington establishment because I believe that our country deserves a legislative process that works.”

Webster’s home in Lake County allows him to stake a claim in this year’s 11th District race, where several are hoping to replace retiring Rep. Richard Nugent (R).

District 11 now includes Citrus, Sumter and Hernando counties, as well as parts of Lake and

Marion counties, including about 30% of this district Webster has represented in his time as District 10 representative.

The map of District 10 now includes only the westernmost 60.8% of Orange County’s population, including all of West Orange. Added to the district are northwest Orange County — including Apopka — and a larger portion of Orlando than Webster ever represented. This latter area drastically alters the voting tendencies of District 10, making it a mostly minority district and improbable for a conservative to win, Webster said. The 10th District Webster has represented consists of mostly suburban or rural areas with large conservative, white communities.

This leaves three candidates — all Democrats — for the 2016 District 10 race: former Orlando Police Chief Val Demings, Orlando lawyer Fatima Fahmy and District 12 State Sen. Geraldine Thompson.

District 10 has changed from mostly rural areas to holding much of Orlando.

Contact Zak Kerr at zkerr@orangeobserver.com.

“I’m running for another term in Congress because there is still much to be done to reform the process and fix what is broken in Washington …”

— Rep. Daniel Webster

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What do the grades mean?

The Florida Department of Education released its 2015 school grades earlier this month. But comparing the results to years past is tricky and, in some cases, can be misleading.

fanfare, the Florida Department of Education released its 2015 school letter grades.

But Orange County Public Schools officials say the grades don’t include critical pieces of the student assessment and thus don’t offer parents a clear picture of school success or failure. Furthermore, the district cautions parents from comparing these letter grades to those of years past, which incorporated results from the FCAT. “This year, we’re receiving the (school) grades without the learning gains component, so over 10 years, school grades have consisted mainly of achievement measures — the percent of students who pass those assessments in English, language arts, mathematics, science and social studies,” said Dr. Brandon McKelvey, Orange County Public Schools associate superintendent of research, accountability and grants. “But the other just about half of the grades have been the learning gains measures, our students growing in their assessment scores from one year to the next.”

Incorporating the learning gains system to school grading systems — meaning the measured improvement of each student on standardized assessments (such as the end-of-course assessments that still count as 30% of a student’s grade) — should better demonstrate whether students and schools are making learning strides than the prior system.

“What a learning gain does do is set an expectation of how much a student should grow in one year,” McKelvey said. “The clearest impact for students isn’t going to change too much from the past few years. There are still two assessments a student has to pass in order to graduate from high school: They have to pass a 10th-grade English language arts assessment, and they have to pass an Algebra I assessment.”

The biggest change is increased assessment difficulty, he said.

For each school, the bars to meet a letter rating have lowered in an attempt to reflect the enhanced difficulty of attaining learning gains, with the added effect of wider ranges making letterrating change in either direction more difficult, McKelvey said.

“We’re still in transition with the school grading system, and a lot of times what our parents want to know is — when a change happens from year to year — ‘Did my school get better or did my school get worse; how can I tell?’” he said. “In this coming year, the 2015-16 grades that will be released in the summer will

WEST ORANGE RESULTS Despite the changes in both testing and analyzing test results, West Orangearea schools posted mostly consistent results.

SCHOOL 2015 2014 2013 ELEMENTARY Bay Meadows A A A C C C Citrus Dillard Street B B A A A A Dr. Phillips Frangus C A D A A A Keene’s Crossing Kids Community College Charter B N/A N/A Lake Gem C C C Lake Whitney A A B Maxey C B C MetroWest B A A Montessori of Winter Garden Charter C A N/A Oakland Avenue Charter B C B Ocoee Elementary C C C A A A Palm Lake Pinewood D D D C C B Prairie Lake Sand Lake A B A C B A Spring Lake SunRidge Elementary B C C Sunset Park A A A Thornebrooke A A A Tildenville C A B West Oaks C B C A A B Westbrooke Whispering Oak A A A Windermere Elementary A A A MIXED Hope Charter Windy Ridge K-8

A A

MIDDLE Bridgewater Chain of Lakes Gotha Lakeview Ocoee Middle Southwest SunRidge

A A A B A B A A A B B B A A A A A A A A A

HIGH Dr. Phillips High Legacy Charter Ocoee High Olympia West Orange

A A B A A A B C C A A A A B A

A A

WANT EVEN MORE? Olympia High School will host OCPS staff for a meeting further explaining partial grades and new grading methods from 6 to 7 p.m. Monday, March 7, in its auditorium, 4301 S. ApopkaVineland Road, Orlando.

include learning gains, whereas (last year they) didn’t.”

This means comparing school letter ratings under this new system to past years will be more like apples to oranges, McKelvey said.

For a chart examining the 2015 school-grade criteria and results, visit OrangeObserver.com.

BY COMPARISON Orange County Public Schools officials say the new system makes it harder for schools to improve their letter grade from one year to the next. In some cases, it was easier to jump from an “F” grade to an “A” grade in the old system than from a “C” to an “A” in the new system.

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STAFF WRITER ORANGE COUNTY With hardly any

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198804

ZAK KERR

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WINDERMERE OBSERVER

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OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 3, 2016

Gotha might have no larger piece of undeveloped land than a plot on Moore Road between Seventh Avenue and Old Army Road.

Zak Kerr

Fire Creek at Gotha proposal rekindling Developers could resubmit the project this year. A group of locals says Gotha residents are against increased density and roundabouts previously proposed.

STAFF WRITER GOTHA Although

Gotha developer Bob Holston withdrew his proposal for Fire Creek at Gotha development on Moore Road in January, he and his team are considering restarting the proposal process with Orange County.

This could involve another set of many community meetings about what could be the largest development project henceforth for Gotha Rural Settlement. A group of concerned Gothans believes the focus should be a compromise maintaining a density of one lot per acre and avoiding “It doesn’t have roundabouts the group believes further strain traffic at to be an $800,000 would peak hours.

“We’re 100% in favor of change roundabout. within the guidelines — that’s what should be done,” Bill Hohns, Another solution one such Gothan, said of density.

Hohns listed Woods of Windermay work fine, and mere, Bella Vita and Weatherstone anything that less- among several recent developments in Gotha where developers ens the (financial) chose to maintain a rural density of no more than one home per acre and succeeded, even though burden on the dethey could have asked for a greater veloper allows him density, such as the 1.79 homes per acre Holston had proposed. to put 29 homes on The Local Planning Agency and Planning & Zoning Commission almost 29 acres.” both had recommended denial of this project based on not fitting — Bill Hohns Gotha’s rural character.

This includes lots as small as

100 feet by 135 feet, Holston said — about 0.31 acres. He said the architectural style of homes would fit Gotha and be commensurate with bordering communities but meet demands moving steadily away from large lots throughout his decades in development.

“An example would be that I developed Windermere Downs, which were acre lots about 20 years ago … and there’s still one lot left in there,” Holston said. “The idea of that would be you have a lot of common areas within your project, where people can meet … not have a large lot to maintain.”

Hohns said lot sizes were not important as long as the project met density, but he said people still seek rural settlements to live on more land. Another member of the group, Linda Walsh, said 1994 was the last time any project in the area received approval with a density greater than one lot per acre.

That plan, Oaks of Windermere, borders the proposed area to the north as one of a few contiguous parcels Holston cites as having a density greater than the 1.79 homes per acre he has sought.

Holston said this would reduce density precedents in Gotha, but Hohns said Fire Creek would set a higher density precedent for developers of many tinier plats around Gotha. Moreover, Holston has referred erroneously to properties he cannot use to

198475

ZAK KERR

Gotha developer Bob Holston proposed a roundabout at Park Ridge Gotha Road and Sixth Street.

justify density, Hohns said.

“He’s using as precedent Ocoee, which he can’t, because he has 2% contiguity,” Hohns said.

“Oaks of Windermere ... came out of an annexation of property

by Ocoee ... as what would have been 4:1. The county sued Ocoee over that. In 1994 it was settled, and part of that settlement ... was that they would create transitions in rural settlements. So they created a policy ... that specifically says ... you can build at a higher density in a rural settlement, but you need to have 25% contiguity.”

ROUNDABOUT DOUBTS

Re s i d e n ts f ro m Ocoee, Windermere and other nearby areas have opined on Fire Creek without care for Gotha’s density — just for roundabouts theoretically lowering trip times in cuts through Gotha, Walsh said.

Holston proposed roundabouts on Sixth Street at Hempel Road and at Park Ridge Gotha Road.

His team found roundabouts the best solution to what he called a problematic intersection in the latter case. Hohns said that intersection has had no crashes, unlike certain Windermere roundabouts, and the county is responsible for road improvements, not a developer in an exchange of roads for development.

“The county typically does not take property from imminent domain to make intersections,” Holston said. “It typically would be turn lanes, and turn lanes do not have a rural look to them. …

It would entail removal of quite a bit of canopy of trees that line the road currently. With the roundabout, you don’t disturb that … and they can actually control a good amount of traffic moving through them safely. … If you look at it, it’s kind of a oneshot opportunity.”

Hohns said roundabouts often move traffic better but become problematic at peak hours, such as weekday afternoons along Main Street in Windermere. Other options could be to modify it to a T, meter the angle or add flashing lights, which could reduce developer costs by about $750,000 and make a lesser density profitable, he said.

“It doesn’t have to be an $800,000 roundabout,” Hohns said. “Another solution may work fine, and anything that lessens the (financial) burden on the developer allows him to put 29 homes on almost 29 acres.”

Besides, traffic counts — a tick less than 11,000 cars on Sixth Street in 2013 and 2014 — indicate the current roadway works relatively well, Hohns said.

“There is a general feeling that a roundabout at (Hempel Avenue) would not really assist,” he said.

“The (other) is a little different. I think it’s pretty universally believed there are improvements that could be done to that, but over time, if you put a roundabout in here and you increase the flow of traffic ... it needs to be two lanes. You don’t have enough property for two lanes. You have barely enough for one lane to get around. ... There’s no solution if these clog, and they’re guaranteed to clog.”

WHAT DOES GOTHA WANT?

Holston said more than 900 households favored this project despite misinformation of Fire Creek causing school rezones and property value dips.

Hohns questioned Holston’s numbers as based on letters from people outside Gotha and single members of homeowners associations’ boards, not a doorto-door survey Hohns said his group had conducted. This unduly affected the Orange County Board of County Commissioners’ unanimous decision to transmit the project for review, Hohns said.

“We received several letters back from different homeowners associations that … they supported the project,” Holston said. “That’s the best we could do — go to public records, see who the president is, contact them to see if they support the project.”

Hohns said misinformation from sources with opinions across the spectrum had emerged.

“Of the 71% of Gotha we reached, 92% were opposed to the roundabouts and the density ... which is 64% of all of Gotha,” Hohns said.

Contact Zak Kerr at zkerr@ orangeobserver.com.

WINDERMERE OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

A little magic for the magic-makers

“I see it as a charity with happiness and magic at its core, because if these people are delivering magic and making people happy, I want to do that for them.”

Wishes Needs & Dreams is a nonprofit that seeks to provide assistance to low-income theme-park and resort workers.

HOW TO HELP Kaley is looking for a board of advisers to get involved. Advisers would help Kaley come up with ideas and events to generate capital and donations for the company.

He also is looking to partner with different businesses that are interested in donating to the cause, whether it be monetary contributions or items that can be used for raffles to generate funds.

Donations are accepted in the form of checks made out to Wishes Needs & Dreams and sent to the WND address or via PayPal on the WND website.

WISHES NEEDS & DREAMS ADDRESS: 14924 Gaulberry Run, Winter Garden, FL 34787 PHONE: (407) 394-5881 EMAIL: wishesneedsanddreams@gmail.com WEBSITE: wishesneedsanddreams.com FACEBOOK: www.facebook. com/WishesNeedsandDreams TWITTER: twitter.com/wishesandneeds

— Mark Kaley, Wishes Needs & Dreams founder

DANIELLE HENDRIX STAFF WRITER HORIZON WEST In Orlando, theme

park and hospitality staff help make magic happen for visiting families and park guests every day.

Now, a new West Orangebased organization seeks to help give some of that magic back to its makers.

Wishes Needs & Dreams, founded by Horizon West resident Mark Kaley, is a charity that aims to assist low-income theme park and resort employees — Dreammakers, as WND calls them — by providing them with financial assistance to relieve stress and anxiety they may have so they can have a better life.

“I want people to do the job and have fun doing the job, enjoy doing the job, and be able to take care of things they need to take care of,” he said. “I do believe that when there’s less strife in their (workers’) personal lives, the visitors’ experiences will be better.”

Kaley first came up with the idea after following the “#Tips4Jesus” social media campaign, a movement that set out to help and surprise deserving restaurant servers by having

9A

THURSDAY, MARCH 3, 2016

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Danielle Hendrix

people leave behind exorbitant tips on their checks.

But Kaley wanted the concept to expand beyond restaurant staff. His passion for theme parks began during his first visit to Walt Disney World Resort in fifth grade. When he and his wife married, they made the move from Long Island, New York, to Orlando and invested in annual passes for all of the theme parks.

It was his passion for the parks

that spurred the idea of providing a similar service to low-income resort employees.

“They’re only provided with their base wage, which isn’t really a living wage,” he said. “They’re not making enough to survive.

(The workers) need to feel like they’re advancing in life, and it’s difficult to do anything when you’re making $10 an hour.”

Although the idea was born last September, the official launch

came less than two weeks ago, after Kaley heard of news that theme parks were cutting hours.

The organization runs solely on donations, and 100% of proceeds will go directly toward funding deserving low-income resort employees’ needs, including, but not limited to, utility bills, car payments, rent, education expenses, food and other living expenses.

“We will contact them and want to make sure its a true need, wish or dream, and if it’s a need we want to be the ones who go to the creditor and make the payment,” Kaley said.

The ultimate vision, he said, is to raise sufficient funds annually so WND can keep providing financial assistance to the employees who come along.

“There is a high turnover rate (in the parks), and there will always be people who need our help,” Kaley said. “I see it as a charity with happiness and magic at its core, because if these people are delivering magic and making people happy, I want to do that for them.”

Contact Danielle Hendrix at dhendrix@orangeobserver.com.

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10A

WINDERMERE OBSERVER

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OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 3, 2016

Springtime shenanigans

Natalie Polo and Alyssa Johnson, both 7, took a spin on the Ballistic ride.

Isabella Peña loved riding all the carnival rides with her friends

O

ne day after winning a state championship in basketball, the Windermere Prep community enjoyed a night of family fun and fundraising at the school’s annual Spring Festival Feb. 26.

Attendees enjoyed taking a spin on a variety of carnival rides, playing in inflatable obstacle courses and listening to a variety of student performers.

— MICHAEL ENG Myra Syed loved the view from atop the climbing wall.

Ava Cordero, 8, showed off her hula-hooping skills.

David Ambrozie battled his friends in the bumper cars.

The inflatable jousting ring was a favorite among festival-goers.

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See more photos at OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 3, 2016

ARTS + CULTURE

John Charles’ performances at the Garden Theatre give his fans the opportunity to enjoy his comedy.

Hitting the high notes

QUICK HITS FRIDAY, MARCH 4

THE BAND UKIAH 9:30 p.m. Friday, March 4, at Dexter’s of Windermere, 4757 The Grove Drive, Suite 100, Windermere. The Band Ukiah, an acoustic trio with three-part harmonies, performs original and classic rock pieces. Enjoy food, wine and good music. (407) 258-7028.

CROSS PAINTING

7 to 10 p.m., Friday, March 4, at The Art Room, 709 Main St., Windermere. Create a 16-inch-by-20-inch canvas of a cross. Bring friends and your favorite beverage. All materials included. $35.

(407) 909-1869.

SATURDAY, MARCH 5

TASTE OF WINDERMERE 6 to 9 p.m., Saturday, March 5, at The Grove, 4744 S Apopka Vineland Road, Orlando. The Central Florida Women’s League presents the sixth annual Taste of Windermere. Proceeds benefit Central Florida charities and scholarships for local students. $75 in advance; $80 at the door. Purchase tickets at cfwl.org.

SUNDAY, MARCH 6 Vox Audio is one of the first groups to delve into contemporary a cappella.

Courtesy photos

Three artists will perform this weekend as part of the Garden Theatre’s Garden Encore!

For the artists, the theater and regional theaters like it hold a special place in their hearts.

IF YOU GO GARDEN ENCORE! WHEN: March 4 to 6.

John Charles ($45) performs at 8 p.m.

Friday, March 4; Maureen McGovern ($200) at 7 p.m. Saturday, March 5; and Vox Audio ($45) at 3 p.m. Sunday, March 6.

WHERE: The Garden Theatre, 160 W Plant St., Winter Garden TICKETS: gardentheatre.org/encore or call (407) 877-4736, Ext. 0

JENNIFER NESSLAR

JAZZ JAM 4 to 7 p.m. Sunday, March 6, at Pilars Martini, 146 W. Plant St., Winter Garden.

Chris Rottmayer and Per Danielsson host the jam.

Sign up before 5:30 p.m. for a chance to jam in the session. (407) 369-8900.

RAVE OF THE WEEK

STAFF WRITER

T

hree performing groups will

SHIRLIENE NAVARRO

take the stage this weekend in support and celebration of the Garden Theatre.

Garden Encore!, which expands

to three days this year, is the theater’s annual fundraiser. In addition to the concerts, the theater also will reveal its 2016-17 season during a red-carpet reception Saturday evening.

SEE LINEUP PAGE 12A

Deborah Feingold

“Theaters are living organisms to me almost. You can feel the presence of all those who’ve been there before you.”

— Maureen McGovern

“This just happened! Pizza on top and bottom with cheeseburger in the middle.

I had to take my baby bro before he left for New York.

Franco’s Pizzeria in Ocoee.

Very interesting. It was good.

The owners of Franco’s are super friendly and nice! Pizza is good too! They have awesome lunch specials. I will be back soon.”

12A

WINDERMERE OBSERVER

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OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 3, 2016

Three days of talent MAUREEN MCGOVERN

Maureen McGovern loves antiques.

The vocal-performing artist gets her penchant for the old from her great-grandfather, who salvaged wood and other supplies from Victorian homes that were being torn down to build new homes. As someone who did marquetry work, he would use the supplies to create something new.

“He saved all these wonderful old things and gave them a second life,” McGovern said. “So I like vintage things as well as current things. It’s kind of in my DNA.” McGovern, who performs March 5 at the Garden Theatre, thinks performing in a regional theater is a special experience — particularly if the theater has been rescued and revitalized by the community as the Garden Theatre was, just like an antique.

And as someone who has perJOHN CHARLES

John Charles was performing at a retirement community in Tampa the night before a hurricane was projected to hit. In the middle of his show, Charles’ guitar pedal stopped working. He decided to unplug the pedal. When he plugged it back in, the guitar started working again.

He looked up at the audience and said, “I believe I can cure a rainy day.”

A woman in the audience yelled, “Come back tomorrow!”

“You never know when some brilliance is going to come out

formed in a range of venues, McGovern finds the sound and the beauty of a theater crafted so long ago to be unmatchable.

“So much of society today is ‘get rid of the past and move on,’” McGovern said. “But when you think of all the people who have been there — theaters are living organisms to me, almost. You can feel the presence of all those who’ve been there before you.”

That philosophy even extends to McGovern’s music, as she molds the old into something relevant in modern times.

“I love taking older songs, songs people have heard a million times, and just really turning them inside out and finding what is relevant about them,” she said.

“I don’t do museum pieces. I do what’s relevant about these songs still today.”

McGovern’s performance at the Garden Theatre is called “Sing, My Sisters, Sing,” which celebrates women singer-song-

writers such as Ella Fitzgerald, Joni Mitchell and Carole King.

The performance also gives a nod to women poets of the late 1800s.

McGovern is currently working on a spiritual album she hopes to release in May called “You Raise Me Up: A Spiritual Journey,” and said she may choose to perform a few songs from the new work at the Garden Theatre performance.

She tries to give all her performances an intimate feel, whether she is performing alongside a symphony or just one other person. In Winter Garden, she will be accompanied by Jeff Harris on the piano.

Performing with Harris gives McGovern flexibility to adapt the show as she is performing.

“The two of us think as one mind when we’re up there,” she said.

It will be McGovern’s first time performing at the Garden Theatre.

of the audience,” said Charles, whose shows combine improv, comedy, music and audience participation. Because of this, he plans little of the show before his performances.

Charles has worked with Disney during his career. He sang in the choir that celebrated the opening of Cinderella Castle and has written much of the motivational material for Disney resort properties at Disneyland Paris, Walt Disney World and Disneyland in California.

About six years ago, he attended “Joseph and the Amazing

Technicolor Dreamcoat” at the Garden Theatre. The visit made him realize it would be a good experience to perform at the theater, and he has been performing there ever since.

Charles performs mostly at corporate shows and on the Disney Cruise Line, so performing at the theater gives local fans a good opportunity to come see him.

“They’re pretty good fans,” Charles said. “I think they’d come watch me knit for an hour and a half.”

“It’s always great to play the hometown, and the Garden Theatre is like family to us.”

— Shalisa James, Vox Audio

VOX AUDIO

For Shalisa James, the West Orange area always has been home.

James, one of the founding members of Vox Audio, attended West Orange High School through her junior year, transferring to Dr. Phillips High School when it opened for her senior year.

At West Orange High School, James was part of the dance core and drama department, playing Gladys in “The Pajama Game.”

“Some of my best, formative memories were there, performing,” said James, now a Gotha resident.

Vox Audio is a contemporary a cappella group that helped to define the genre of music.

In 1998, the members of the group were performers at Uni-

versal and Disney. They assembled into Vox Audio, wanting to dabble in experimental styles of singing a cappella where they created an interactive show starring the human voice. They attended the Orlando Fringe Festival, and the group was born.

Vox Audio, comprising members Jeff Williams, Jeremy James, Michelle Mailhot, Paul Sperrazza and James, incorporates sketch comedy into their routines and even spent several months in 2004 performing Off-Broadway.

They now tour regularly.

So for James, performing at the theater is always special.

“It’s always great to play the hometown, and the Garden Theatre is like family to us,” James said.

PRESENTED BY

MEET THE CAST

©2016 GARDEN THEATRE, INC.

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GARDEN THEATRE • 160 WEST PLANT STREET • WINTER GARDEN

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THURSDAY, MARCH 3, 2016

13A

PresentS

AY D S ’ K C I R S T. P A T

Scott Leichner, left, Falyn Leichner, Dori Hardoon and Eric Hardoon enjoyed some drinks at the Rosen JCC Opening Night Gala.

Rosen JCC unveils new digs beer garden food vendors arts and cra vendors ft musical entertainme highland gamnt and more. . es

G

uests gathered at the Rosen Jewish Community Center Saturday, Feb. 27 for an evening of food, wine and fun during the center’s second annual gala.

The gala coincided with the grand opening of the new auditorium and had a red-carpet/ opening-night theme. The event featured both local and national headline entertainment, music, comedy and a show provided

by Theatre South.

Additionally, guests could explore and create plates at dine-around stations from local restaurants, hotels and caterers. A silent auction included prizes ranging from iPads to theme-park tickets and more.

march 2016

T h u r s day 1 7 12pm-11pm F r i day 1 8 11am-11pm S at u r day 1 9 11am-11pm

CrookedCan.com

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198838

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— DANIELLE HENDRIX

Pamela Sanchez and her husband, Dr. Luis Sanchez, had fun at the Opening Night F

Aileen Schaked and Rosen JCC Executive Director Bonnie Rayman, who worked hard to plan the gala, enjoyed seeing the fruits of their labor as the evening went on.

ONLINE See more photos at OrangeObserver.com

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“Rouslyn,” left, and “Cabernet,” right, who provided some entertainment for the evening, paused to take a photo with Alan Rock.

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Jewish Community Center • 11184 S. Apopka Vineland Rd., Orlando, FL 32836

14A

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THURSDAY, MARCH 3, 2016

Vendors promote healthy lifestyle at Ocoee expo

L

ocal health-related businesses gathered at the West Oaks Mall Saturday, Feb. 27 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. for a Healthy West Orange Expo.

The expo, a free community event, featured health and wellness events, activities, an appearance by former NFL player Rogers Beckett and many giveaways.

To take the Healthy West Orange pledge, visit healthywestorange.org.

— DANIELLE HENDRIX

Andy Mace and Karen Butler represented the Roper YMCA Family Center.

ONLINE

Candi Hill, left, Michael Barbosa and Melissa Barbosa represented “It Works!”

See more photos from the Healthy West Orange Expo at OrangeObserver.com

Thank You

From investing to advising.

We’re here for you.

The Night To Shine event planning committee of

First Baptist Church Windermere

When you walk into your local

Michael S. Wytiaz, CFP® Independent Branch Leader and Financial Consultant

Schwab branch, you can count

would like to thank the following local businesses for helping to make our event a HUGE success:

on getting the help you need to achieve your goals—from investing to retirement planning.

Chick-fil-A The Mall at Millennia Domino’s Ocoee Kirby Rentals, LLC Mears Transportation Ocoee Fire Department EMTs Orlando Wedding and Party Rentals Polk Brothers Entertainment Publix College Park Publix Lakeside Village Center Publix Plaza Venezia Romano’s Macaroni Grill Winter Garden Royal Carriage Winter Garden Seasonal Lighting Southern Elegance Limousines Windermere Flowers & Gifts Windermere Police Department and the hundreds of volunteers who donated their time and talents to this event.

Drop by our local branch anytime for a professional assessment of where you are now and where to go next.

Horizon Circle

Windermere Independent Branch 4848 S. Apopka Vineland Road Suite 204 Orlando, FL 32819 (407) 909-0485 schwab.com/windermere Conroy Windermere Road

Conroy Windermere Road

Conroy Road 435 4848 S. Apopka Vineland Road

rove Dri T he G ve

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We could not have done it without you.

Thanks so much!

Claire Brown, an instructor at Food For Life, served samples of healthy food to guests.

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client:

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Former NFL player Rogers Beckett signed autographs at the expo with his son, Bralen, 7, in tow.

Rebecca Desir, health promotions manager for Central Florida’s American Lung Association, was ready to help people learn about lung health.

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THURSDAY, MARCH 3, 2016

15A

Weeklong celebration

Eighth-graders Madison Harbilas, Cecilia Santiago, Meghana Aduri, Antonia JeBailey, Felicity Kaley, Emma Neary, Sarah Martin and Kiran Singh welcomed guests to the Open House.

H

oly Family Catholic School joined schools throughout the country to celebrate Catholic Schools Week.

Holy Family’s students, faculty and parents enjoyed a plethora of activities, including an Open House, Walk-a-Thon, Volunteer Breakfast, Talent Show and Field Day. — MICHAEL ENG

Photos courtesy of Holy Family Catholic School

Above: Kindergartner Henry Ago performed at the Talent Show.

Left: Holy Family Catholic School Principal Sister Dorothy Sayers and Parent and Social Media Director Tami Murphy both enjoyed the Volunteer Breakfast.

First-grader Sara Bohoroquez, showed some serious speed in the Walk-a-Thon.

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WEST ORANGE OBITUARIES

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DOROTHY CANTELMO, 83, of Windermere, died Sunday, Feb. 21, 2016. DeGusipe Funeral Home and Crematory, West Orange Chapel, Ocoee.

LAVARDO DENASHE “ELJAY” FISHER II, 13, of Ocoee, died Monday, Feb. 8, 2016.

Pax Villa Funeral Home, Orlando.

ELMA R. HIGH, 95, of Winter Garden, died Monday, Feb. 15, 2016. Collison Carey Hand Funeral Home, Winter Garden Chapel.

ZAKARY C. KRAM, 23, of Gotha, died Sunday, Feb. 14, 2016. Winter Oak Funeral Home & Cremations, Winter Garden.

GERALD ELMER MORIN, 67, of Windermere, died Tuesday, Feb. 16, 2016. A Community Funeral Home & Sunset Cremations, Orlando.

AUREA R. VELEZ, 83, of Windermere, died Friday, Feb. 19, 2016. Baldwin-Fairchild Funeral Home, Winter Garden Chapel.

SENIOR OF THE MONTH: GLENNA COX

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JANICE L. BOUTHILLETTE, 79, of Windermere, died Saturday, Feb. 20, 2016. Winter Oak Funeral Home & Cremations, Winter Garden.

AGNES L. DAVIS, 89, of Ocoee, died Saturday, Feb. 27, 2016.

Woodlawn Funeral Home, Gotha.

MetroWest’s public safety officers attended the Cuban Food Festival event at Valencia College West Campus on Feb. 20 and shared information on the MetroWest Public Safety Program.

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JAMES RAY BATEMAN, 76, of Orlando, died Wednesday, Feb. 17, 2016. DeGusipe Funeral Home, Ocoee.

do Air Base. She loved to shop and garden, while politics and football were her favorite pastimes. She

loved the Lord and was a lifelong Methodist.

She is survived by a sister, Marilee Ivy; two children, Sandra L. Johnston and William L. Boon, and their spouses, Michael H. Johnston and Shirley E. Boon; five grandchildren; and three greatgrandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Ellen’s memory to a hospice house of your choice.

Interment to take place at the Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell, Florida.

Courtesy photo

“We have the largest chapel in West Orange County.”

Owned and operated by the Romano family.

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Ellen Griffin Boon, 92, of Tampa, passed into glory on Monday, Feb. 22, 2016.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 67 years, William G. Boon; her mother, Mary Ann Griffin; her father, Alva Lee Griffin; and her brother, J.B. Griffin.

Ellen was born in Ocoee, Florida, but also lived in Tampa and Philadelphia. A World War II bride, she was married at Orlan-

You. Your Neighbors.

Your Neighborhood.

ADVERTISE OR SUBSCRIBE TODAY! Call us at 407-656-2121 Email us at AdvertiseNow@OrangeObserver.com or Subscribe@OrangeObserver.com

Each year during Winter Garden Lodge No. 165 F&AM’s annual installation of officers ceremony, the outgoing master of the lodge recognizes one of the brothers as Mason of the Year. This person is selected based on dedication, devotion and hard work. Robert Daniel Shadowhawk “Dan” Kuhl (Dan) was awarded this high honor by Frank Lopez.

Kuhl has taken on a mentoring role and has been instrumental in the repair and upkeep of the lodge building. He has stepped up to help build parade floats and to volunteer for the many community activities the lodge is involved in. He has also served his time in the lodge kitchen.

He has helped as a concierge with the city of Winter Garden,

Baldwin Fairchild Funeral Home Winter Garden We are Proud to offer: • A Celebration of Life Service • Traditional Burial and Cremation Services • Prearranged Funeral Services

has attended board and West Orange Chamber of Commerce meetings and worked with the local merchants to correlate the lodge’s role in many of the city’s annual holiday parades and activities.

Kuhl is a former deputy sheriff and a semi-retired chief petty officer in the United States Navy.

WOMAN’S CLUB OF OCOEE

The Woman’s Club of Ocoee is holding its 92nd Annual Birthday Luncheon and Fashion Show Event is at 11:30 a.m. Saturday, March 5, at the clubhouse, 4 N. Lakewood Drive, Ocoee.

Fashions will be Resort Wear by Tiffany.

Tickets are $20 and can be purchased by calling (407) 5797977 or emailing bmwlady97@ aol.com.

WEST ORANGE DUPLICATE BRIDGE CLUB RESULTS FOR FEB. 11.

N-S: 1. Y. Peabody – M. Voorhees 2. N. Fortin – S. Landis 3. S. Kmiec – M. Ryan 4. J. DeLoach – N. Velden 5. M. and F. Schwartz; E-W: 1. H. Parker – M. Lesnik 2. V. Oberaitis – J. Muzeni 3. B. Young – A. Lowe 4. S. and B. Binkley 5. B. and R. Blair

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16A

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RESULTS FOR FEB. 18.

N-S: 1. B. Ballenger – B. Cox 2. N. Fortin – S. Landis 3. L. Jones – B. Bell 4. M. and F. Schwartz 5. M. and J. Chilton; E-W: 1. H. Parker – M. Lesnik 2. M. Guthrie – B. Shelton 3. L. and J. Pylman 4. N. Brockman – R. Kerkhoff 5.

V. Oberaitis – J. Muzeni

Glenna Cox was born in Ashe County, North Carolina, on Jan. 2, 1931, the first child of Winnie and Archie Barton. Her parents were farmers until 1941, when the family moved to Cleveland, Ohio. Her father then went to work as a plant supervisor, and her mother worked for Fisher Body. Her family included three younger brothers and one sister.

Glenna’s first job after graduating high school was working at Eaton Axle, where she made decorations for grills for 1951 Ford cars.

Next, she worked for Murray Bicycle Company, where she met and later married her husband, Charley, who was her inspector at the bicycle company.

Their family grew with the addition of four children, Patrick, Debbie, Anthony and Michael. In 1959, they moved to Daytona Beach, where she went to work for General Electric in the space program. When the program closed, she commuted to Plymouth and worked for General Electric’s light bulb and Christmas light division.

She lived in Apopka for five years before moving to Ocoee in 1975.

Glenna was one of the first people to go to work in Plymouth and was one of the last 10 to leave when the plant closed. She then worked for Wal-mart in the cash office and retired in 2006. In her younger days she enjoyed playing softball, golf, bowling and para-sailing.

Glenna’s extended family included five grandchildren, three great-grandchildren and three great-great granddaughters. She always joins the West Orange Seniors for bingo and the luncheons.

MARCH 3 , 2016

SPORTS

Dr. Phillips’ Mike Berkman scored a career-high eight goals and had three assists at Edgewater Feb. 22 in a 19-3 victory. Page 20A

HIGH

TRIUMPH 5

in Lakeland

Xion Golding was congratulated by Windermere Prep supporters after the game.

1

Olympia softball senior Jill Chabot didn’t allow any hits as the Titans defeated Freedom 11-0 Feb. 29. Freshman Livia Anderson hit her first home run.

2

Piper Johnson (five goals) and Elyse Decker (four goals) led Dr. Phillips girls lacrosse to a 16-3 rout of Cypress Creek Feb. 24. The Panthers are 5-1.

3

Olympia baseball’s Aaron Bogovic struck out seven en route to a perfect game against Wekiva Feb. 26. The Titans won 8-0 and are 7-2.

4

Dr. Phillips junior Dylan Meeks took all of 147 seconds to pin all four of his opponents at the regional meet Feb. 27, winning the 220-pound class for his fourth consecutive regional title. Meeks will be joined by teammate Tahj Glemaud, who placed third at 285 pounds, at the state meet this weekend.

5

Deija Been went 2-for-4 with a run and an RBI while Raychel Trocki pitched a complete game as Dr. Phillips softball defeated Wekiva 6-2 Feb. 29. The Panthers (4-5) have won three of their past four games.

STEVEN RYZEWSKI SENIOR SPORTS EDITOR

The Windermere Prep Lakers were jubilant as they hoisted the FHSAA Class 3A State Championship trophy Feb. 25 at the Lakeland Center.

An 8-0 run in the state championship’s waning moments elevated Windermere Prep to the Class 3A Crown.

stakes were high-

est, it was the elder statesSuiting up as a varsity player for the final time, senior guard Parker Davis scored seven of the Lakers’ final 12 points — including a

3 TO WATCH

go-ahead 3-pointer with 1:51 remaining to give Winder-

BASEBALL Olympia (7-2) at Dr. Phillips (3-4), 1 p.m.

Saturday, March 5

WATER POLO Olympia vs. Dr. Phillips: 7 p.m. girls, 8 p.m. boys, March 8

most and the

men who got it done.

n Got something you think belongs on our sports page? Send it to sryzewski@orangeobserver.com.

SOFTBALL Foundation (5-4) at Dr. Phillips (4-5), 6 p.m.

Tuesday, March 8

W

hen it mattered

mere Prep the lead for good —and led his team to a 62-58 victory over Westminster Photos by Michael Eng

“It was just kind of like, ‘You guys are our big-time players — make big-time plays.’ And, sure enough, they did.”

— Ben Wilson, coach

Academy in the FHSAA Class 3A State Championship.

SEE PAGES 18-19A

18A

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THURSDAY, MARCH 3, 2016

Season in review

SIDELINE SCENE

The road to the Class 3A State Championship for the Windermere Prep Lakers included highs and lows.

STEVEN RYZEWSKI SENIOR SPORTS EDITOR

The expectations were always high.

The season that eventually would become a state championship campaign for the Windermere Prep boys basketball team was not something that happened by chance. With the return of standouts such as Parker Davis and Xion Golding, as well as the addition of David Nickelberry from The First Academy, it was clear from the preseason that the Lakers had, on paper, one of the best rosters in the state.

In early December, Davis, a senior, was blunt about the expectations for this group.

“There’s a lot of urgency for me,” Davis said. “This is it for me — it’s either Lakeland (for the Class 3A Final Four) or nothing.”

Things got off to a strong enough start, too.

Windermere Prep won 18 of its first 19 games, shooting to the top of regional rankings and even to the top of the Class 3A state wide rankings compiled by SourceHoops.com.

The run included victories against Evans (84-72, Nov. 25), Oak Ridge (77-67, Nov. 27), Winter Park (78-64, Dec. 30), and even rival The First Academy — which defeated the Lakers in all four meetings a season ago — with a 64-60 win Jan. 13.

Things were going well — too well, so far as head coach Ben Wilson was concerned.

“I told the coaches, ‘We need a loss right now — we need to go through some adversity,’” Wilson said. “I hated seeing us at No. 1 for so long.”

The Lakers got that loss, an 83-74 defeat Jan. 16 against The Master’s Academy (Oviedo) in a contest that was televised local-

ly — and then they endured a few more. In the final six games of the regular season, Windermere Prep won just two. Accordingly, the Lakers tumbled in the rankings, and when one publication referred to the team as “freefalling,” Wilson knew he had the bulletin-board material he needed.

“The keyword when I went to the huddle with these guys before practice was, ‘I believe everyone feels we’re free-falling,’” Wilson said. “They literally just kind of got this look like, ‘OK, everybody is quitting on us.’”

Apparently, that did the trick.

In the district tournament the first week of February, Windermere Prep won its semifinal and final by a combined 81 points.

The Lakers won their regional quarterfinal matchup against New Dimensions Feb. 11 by 35 points, 76-41.

The regional semifinal? Windermere Prep coasted past Santa Fe Catholic Feb. 16, 96-58.

Things got tense in the regional final Feb. 20, though.

Facing off against Tampa Prep and standout Tyson Ward, the Lakers got all they could handle in trying to slow Ward — who scored a game-high 31 points — and the Terrapins.

That 73-70 victory was cited

by Windermere Prep players as important preparation for the state championship game.

Windermere Prep coasted past Archbishop Carroll in the state semifinal Feb. 23, 80-61, before besting Westminster Academy Feb. 25, 62-58.

Now, the hardest thing for Wilson and company to do might be figuring out what to do after school.

“I’m sure it’ll settle in at some point when we realize, ‘Wow, there’s no practice today,’” Wilson said.

MEET THE LAKERS No. Name 2 Tristan Clapham 3 Jeffrey Watson 4 Parker Davis 5 Matheus Westphalen 10 Mitchell Siegel 11 Tommy Stricker 12 Will Seelman 15 David Nickelberry 22 Yassen Aratius 24 Xion Golding Ryan Swoboda 32

Position Guard Guard Guard Guard Guard G/F Forward Forward Forward Guard Center

Year Senior Freshman Senior Senior Senior Freshman Junior Junior Senior Junior Junior

Editor’s note: Jeffrey Watson and Tommy Stricker are junior varsity players moved up to varsity for the playoffs. Matheus Westphalen was inactive for the playoffs and served the team as a team manager.

STAT LEADERS

COACHING STAFF

POINTS PER GAME Parker Davis: 16.8 David Nickelberry: 16.4 Xion Golding: 13.0 Mitchell Siegel: 9.4 Ryan Swoboda: 6.4

HEAD COACH: Ben Wilson (seventh season, 123-75 at WPS)

REBOUNDS PER GAME David Nickelberry: 7.9 Xion Golding: 6.1 Ryan Swoboda: 5.7 Yassen Aratius: 4.6 Will Seelman: 4.4

TRAINERS/MANAGERS: Kyle Gilbert, strength coach; Paige Beitlich, athletic trainer; Alex Lennon, manager; Taylor Watson, statistician

ASSISTS PER GAME David Nickelberry: 4.8 Parker Davis: 3.6 Xion Golding: 2.9 Yassen Aratius: 1.3 Matheus Westphalen: 1.2

COACHES: Sharrod Williams, Josh Smith, Javon Russell, Mitchell Ford

HEADMASTER: Tom Marcy PRINCIPAL: Leslie Williams ATHLETIC DIRECTOR: John Lykins

Hundreds of Windermere Prep fans made the trek to Lakeland to cheer the Lakers to a state title.

State title elevates Lakers’ brand, program, school spirit

STEVEN RYZEWSKI SIDELINE SCENE

Dr. Tom Marcy still remembers watching the ball leave Eddie McShan’s hand and sink through the basket at the Jacksonville Coliseum, giving Gainesville High a 54-52 victory over Hillsborough in the 1969 Class 2A State Championship.

Marcy, then a teacher at Gainesville High, is now the headmaster for Windermere Prep.

More than 45 years have passed since Marcy last saw a school he was at win a boys basketball state championship, a drought the Lakers ended with a 62-58 victory over Westminster Academy in the Class 3A State Championship.

That perspective has ensured the significance of what head coach Ben Wilson’s team has accomplished was not lost on the veteran educator.

“This doesn’t happen very often,” Marcy said. “We wanted our kids to celebrate in the moment; we wanted the school community to celebrate in that moment.”

It’s hard to quantify the value of a state championship, but here are some general truths: Windermere Prep’s brand, especially that of its athletics program, will receive a noticeable boost, and school spirit is at an all-time high.

It needs to be stated that this is not the first time the Lakers have had success in sports. Between 65% and 70% of the school’s Upper School students participate in some sort of interscholastic sport, and there have been championships before — in girls golf (three team championships) and with the football team’s Sunshine State Athletic Conference Championship in 2014, among other achievements.

It’s hard to argue, though, that

this was not the most high-profile of all those.

Although football is king in Florida high-school sports, the SSAC is still a growing independent league, and its championship does not enjoy near the same attention as its FHSAA counterparts.

So far as big deals in Florida high-school sports, what transpires each year at the Lakeland Center is second in notoriety only to what happens each year at the Citrus Bowl.

Although Windermere Prep already has a well-known reputation as an elite academic institution in Central Florida, there is a certain kind of exposure only sports can provide.

Marcy said he expects there will be an uptick in interest in the school and admission applications. Athletes from around the region now realize the school is not only somewhere they can go to get a first-class education, but also somewhere they can go and win.

“This doesn’t happen very often — that’s the big thing. We wanted our kids to celebrate in the moment; we wanted the school community to celebrate in that moment.”

— Dr. Tom Marcy, headmaster

From the sports side of things, Lakers Director of Athletics John Lykins believes what the basketball team accomplished — and the established programs it had to beat to do so (most notably Tampa Prep and Westminster Academy) — will go a long way for the athletics program’s reputation.

“Now, to be a part of those teams … those are great accolades for our school and for Ben Wilson and his staff,” Lykins said.

There’s also the matter of school spirit. In his State-ofthe-School address from January 2013, Marcy remembers challenging the entire campus to elevate school spirit and pride, which he had observed as ebbing and flowing in the past.

Standing courtside in the final moments of the state championship, Marcy enjoyed a powerful manifestation of that challenge as many parents, students and faculty members had made the journey to Lakeland to support the team.

“I looked up and I saw this rabid fanbase, cheering on every basket and every free throw being made,” Marcy said. “It was just a super-charged atmosphere in every way.”

One thing is for sure — on a campus that has long expected academic excellence, athletic excellence is now coming of age.

“As a school philosophy, the type of school we have academically, we want to be the same athletically as we are academically,” Lykins said. “We want that same reputation.”

Photos by Michael Eng

The Lakers collapsed on one another at the end of the game.

WINDERMERE OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, MARCH 3, 2016

19A

LAKERS UNDER COACH BEN WILSON Head coach Ben Wilson came to Windermere Prep in 2009 after coaching at Riverside Academy in Louisiana. Here is the final result for each season the team has had since then: 2009-10 season: 8-18 record, eliminated in district quarterfinals 2010-11 season: 12-13 record, eliminated in district quarterfinals 2011-12 season: 14-11 record, eliminated in district quarterfinals 2012-13 season: 18-11 record, eliminated in regional quarterfinals 2013-14 season: 20-8 record, district champion, eliminated in regional quarterfinals 2014-15 season: 19-10 record, eliminated in regional semifinals 2015-16 season: 27-5 record, district champion, region champion, state champion

Senior guard Parker Davis scored a game-high 21 points in the state title game against Westminster Academy.

WPS relishes championship CONTINUED FROM PAGE 17A

Davis, who has been dreaming of winning a championship for his school since sixth grade, scored a game-high 21 points on the night.

Afterward, as his teammates hugged in celebration, the veteran guard said the gravity of it all was nearly overwhelming.

“It was just so intense the whole way through,” Davis said. “(When time expired) I kind of wanted to cry, and I wanted to be happy — (it was) a lot of mixed emotions, and it was awesome.”

For a team that has been powered all season by its ‘big three’ — Davis and junior forwards David Nickelberry and Xion Golding — it was fitting that of those final 12 points, the other five came by way of Golding and Nickelberry.

With the Lakers trailing by one, 51-50, Golding stole the ball and drove down the court for a layup to put his team ahead with 3:15 to play. Davis scored to put the Lakers up three with 2:52 remaining, but Westminster sharpshooter Chase Johnston drilled a three with 2:31 on the clock to knot the contest at 54-54.

That led to Davis making what might have been the biggest shot of his career, the go-ahead 3-pointer that sailed through the net and put the Lakers up for good.

After Windermere Prep got a stop at the other end of the floor, Davis was fouled with 1:00 to play and made both free throws to extend the lead to five points, 59-54.

Golding made one of two free throws with 40 seconds remaining, and Nickelberry effectively sealed the deal with 20 seconds left as he calmly made two free throws to cap an 8-0 run for the Lakers in just over a minute and 30 seconds’ time.

“It was just kind of like, ‘You

guys are our big-time players — make big-time plays,’” Windermere Prep coach Ben Wilson said.

“And, sure enough, they did.”

Wilson’s squad triumphed in a contest with 16 lead changes and 10 ties — including ties at the end of the first and second quarters.

The Lakers trailed by as many as six points late in the third quarter.

“We just needed to focus ourselves,” Nickelberry said. “I told the guys (at halftime), ‘If we come out strong and power forward with determination, we’ll pull it out.’”

Beyond the Lakers’ ‘big three,’ several role players stepped up in the game’s waning moments — including Will Seelman, who took a crucial charge in the contest’s final minute. It took an entire team effort to slow Westminster’s Jerald Butler, who finished with a team-high 19 points — 18 of which were in the first half.

“Constantly, throughout it all, I kept saying, ‘Let’s play our game,’” Wilson said. “We knew (Butler) was going to be a handful and he was in the first half. I thought we made a great adjustment in the second half and held him to one point — I thought that was huge.”

Windermere Prep concluded the 2015-16 campaign with a 27-5 record. The postseason run marked the program’s first appearance in the state final four.

And, while two-thirds of the ‘big three’ will be back in Golding and Nickelberry, Davis ends his career as a Laker with the program’s first state championship.

“It’s the best,” Davis said. “To finish off senior year with a state championship — it’s the greatest feeling.”

Cole Webster, 4, enjoyed cheering for the Lakers.

“It’s the best. To finish off senior year with a state championship — it’s the greatest feeling.”

— Parker Davis

Contact Steven Ryzewski at sryzewski@orangeobserver.com.

Regional tournament Feb. 11 — vs. New Dimensions (Kissimmee), W 76-41 Feb. 16 — vs. Santa Fe Catholic (Lakeland), W 96-58 Feb. 20 — vs. Tampa Prep, W 73-70

1st 2nd 3rd 4th TOTAL 12 15 14 21 62 12 15 16 15 58

Parker Davis: 21 points (game-high), 6 rebounds, 4 assists David Nickelberry: 15 points, 7 rebounds, 3 assists Xion Golding: 15 points, 5 rebounds, 2 assists Jerald Butler (Westminster): 19 points, 9 rebounds, 4 assists

REGULAR SEASON Nov. 17 — at Circle Christian, W 62-14 Nov. 21 — vs. Oldsmar Christian (at Orlando Christian Prep), L 81-60 Nov. 25 — at Evans, W 84-72 Nov. 27 — vs. Oak Ridge (at BCA Classic), W 77-67 Dec. 1 — vs. West Orange, W 81-77 Dec. 3 — at Orangewood Christian, W 77-40 Dec. 4 — at Foundation Academy, W 81-44 Dec. 11 — vs. Desert Vista (Desert Challenge at Rancho Solano, Ariz.), W 65-59 Dec. 12 — vs. Brophy College Prep (Desert Challenge at Rancho Solano, Ariz.), W 65-58 Dec. 16 — vs. Foundation Academy, W 76-33 Dec. 28 — vs. Spencer County (Kentucky), W 60-32 Dec. 29 — vs. Cannon (N.C.), W 79-60 Dec. 30 — vs. Winter Park, W 78-64 Jan. 7 — vs. Lake Mary Prep, W 74-39 Jan. 8 — vs. Legacy High, W 80-38 Jan. 9 — vs. Hagerty (Showdown in O-Town), W 89-59 Jan. 12 —vs. Circle Christian, W 83-17 Jan. 13 – vs. The First Academy, W 64-60 Jan. 14 — at Legacy High, W 77-26 Jan. 16 — at The Master’s Academy, L 83-74 Jan. 18 — at Rickards (Tallahassee), L 67-65 Jan. 19 — vs. Orangewood Christian, W 84-34 Jan. 21 — at Lake Mary Prep, W 56-44 Jan. 26 — at Lake Minneola, L 5644 Jan. 29 — vs. The Rock School (Gainesville), L 97-75 District tournament (at Lake Mary Prep) Feb. 5 — vs. Foundation Academy, W 71-21 Feb. 6 — vs. Lake Mary Prep, W 89-58

FHSAA CLASS 3A STATE CHAMPIONSHIP

Windermere Prep Westminster Academy

RESULTS: WINDERMERE PREP 2015-16 SEASON Final record: 27-5 District record: 10-0 Home record: 12-1 Away/neutral record: 15-4 Average points for: 74.3 Average points against: 53.3

Junior David Nickelberry (15) averaged 16.4 points per game for the Lakers this season.

FHSAA Class 3A State Tournament (at The Lakeland Center) Feb. 23 — vs. Archbishop Carroll (Miami), W 80-61 Feb. 25 — vs. Westminster Academy (Ft. Lauderdale), W 62-58

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

20A

WINDERMERE OBSERVER

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OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 3, 2016

Splash rivals

SPONSORED BY SHANNON TILL STATE FARM IN FOWLER GROVES

Mike Berkman Mike Berkman scored a careerhigh eight goals for Dr. Phillips and had three assists at Edgewater Feb. 22 in a 19-3 victory. He followed with three goals and six assists Feb. 25 against Celebration (a 23-2 victory) and three goals and eight assists Feb. 26 versus Oviedo (a 16-2 victory), part of a five-game win streak for the Panthers (5-2).

When did you start playing lacrosse and why?

I started playing lacrosse in the fourth grade. My dad played college lacrosse, so he got me into it and taught me everything, pretty much.

What about the game do you like?

I just like how lacrosse is creative. You can do whatever you want — create your own style — which is cool. In football, you pretty much have to run the plays, but in lacrosse you can blaze your own path.

What’s it like as a sophomore to contribute so much scoring?

I think it’s cool because our team last year was mostly juniors, and we had a couple of really good seniors. So I think it helps a lot because next year and the year after that — because our JV isn’t really that strong … I think it’ll help, considering we only have three players in my grade that are on varsity.

THE BASICS

With the boys and girls water polo teams for both Dr. Phillips and Olympia off to a strong start this spring, the March 8 rivalry matchup between the two programs looms large as a must-see event.

Year: Sophomore Position: Attack Handedness: Right Number: 22

What was it like to score eight goals in a game?

It was really cool. I thought I only had four goals, but it turned out I had eight. Our coach always posts stats after the game, and I couldn’t even believe it, because it didn’t feel like it was eight goals.

They all felt really natural, I guess, because our team was playing really good.

STEVEN RYZEWSKI SENIOR SPORTS EDITOR

I

ORLANDO

t’s relatively well-known that rival high schools Olympia and Dr. Phillips sit just four miles down the road from one another.

Less known, though, is that the two schools’ water polo programs — annually among the best in Central Florida — practice just down the pool from one another at the YMCA Aquatic Center on International Drive.

“It gets weird, especially because we share the same locker room,” Olympia senior Spencer Segal said, laughing.

Dr. Phillips senior Kyra Farkas admits it affords the two teams an opportunity to keep an eye on one another — not a bad idea, considering that because the teams share a district, the road to the playoffs

What do you like to do in free time?

Fishing, I like fishing a lot. Playing basketball — I really like basketball. I just like relaxing since my life is pretty busy usually. Most of the time we’re hanging out at a basketball court or somewhere we’re shooting lacrosse — that’s pretty much all we do.

Do you have thoughts on what is after high school?

Going to college and playing lacrosse, for sure. That’s pretty much what I want to do in college, and then get a good degree in communications and then look into a future with ESPN or something like that.

goes through the other.

Many of the athletes know each other, either from around the facility, from club water polo or even as middle-school classmates. Accordingly, though there is a friendly disposition most of the time, things can get fierce when the teams meet in the water — as they will March 8 at the YMCA Aquatic Center.

“The DP-Olympia rivalry is just something unique and special — and it’s fun,” Olympia coach Stephanie JohnsonPossell said. “The game, no matter which school has the stronger team that year, it’s going to be an emotional, exciting, fun game to come watch. It’s very unpredictable.”

After the two teams meet March 8, they likely will be on a collision course to meet once again in the district final April 5.

Who is your favorite superhero?

I just started watching “Daredevil” on Netflix. That’s kind of the first superhero thing I’ve been into for some reason.

I used to like “Spider-Man” when I was little, but … I never really followed them intensely.

But “Daredevil” is pretty cool because he’s the first superhero that’s blind.

Courtesy photo

Olympia High School announced its “Olympia Top 10” recently, a listing of the school’s top 10 seniors based on grade-point average.

The athletics programs for the Titans were well-represented among the academic

Family.

Family.

Friends.

Friends.

Community.

Community.

— ZAK KERR

standouts.

Arianna Beltrame (tennis), Marc Levine (cross-country and volleyball), Robert Knight (volleyball), Aishwarya Kunta (cross-country) and Alexander Esperanza (swimming and water polo) were all recog-

nized. The other students recognized included valedictorian Deesha Desai, salutatorian Azeem Uddeen, Rachel Greenwald, Chau-Ha Phan and Samantha Sexton.

Athlete of the Week Sponsored by...

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OLYMPIA VS. DR. PHILLIPS WHEN: Tuesday, March 8. Girls match at 7 p.m.; boys match at 8 p.m.

WHERE: YMCA Aquatic Center, 8422 International Drive, Orlando TICKETS: $5

TITAN ATHLETES SHINE IN ACADEMIC ‘TOP 10’ LIST

If you could have one superpower, what would it be?

Flying, for sure.

I think it’d be awesome. You could help a lot of people, I think, because you could just fly around and get stuff, come back, fly around.

I would try to put it to good use if I could, but use it for fun, too. Just flying around would be pretty cool.

Shannon Till, Agent Shannon Till, Agent

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WINDERMERE OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

MEET THE TEAMS

THURSDAY, MARCH 3, 2016

21A

DR. PHILLIPS BOYS CURRENT RECORD: 6-2 2015 RESULT: 20-3 record; won district, lost to Winter Park in State Play-in Game

Photos by Steven Ryzewski

Corbin Chamberlain, left, and Tyler Haugh are hoping to lead the Panthers back to the playoffs.

THE BUZZ: After winning the district and advancing to the playoffs last season, Dr. Phillips is in a bit of a rebuild but is off to a strong start.

“We’re working on the small, fine details to get it all put together,” senior Corbin Chamberlain said.

A mixture of returners and a talented group of freshmen who played club together have helped to invigorate the Panthers early this season.

“To be as young as we are and doing as well as we are, I’m very pleased,” coach Leo Ramirez said.

DR. PHILLIPS GIRLS CURRENT RECORD: 7-1 2015 RESULT: 20-2 record (best in school history); fell to Olympia in district final THE BUZZ: The Panthers fielded the girls program’s best team to date in 2015 and graduated seven seniors from that group.

Accordingly, the focus early in the season has been on carving out an identity for this year’s squad.

“It’s definitely a rebuild,” Ramirez said. “We do have a couple girls that have experience that are in there and keeping the team together right now.”

Dr. Phillips has gotten off to a strong start with just one loss, but tougher competition awaits as the season heats up.

“Having lost all those seniors, I feel good about having our five wins,” senior Kyra Farkas said.

|

Junior Maddie Magrino, senior Kyra Farkas and junior Julia James provide much of the experienced leadership for the Panthers’ girls team.

The senior class of Ziad Berryane, Logan Miller, Alex Esperanza, Joshua Ayala, Federico Rojas, Mitchell Marques and Spencer Segal helps solidify the Titans as a contender.

OLYMPIA BOYS CURRENT RECORD: 7-3 2015 RESULT: 18-6; fell to Dr. Phillips in district final THE BUZZ: The Titans have seven seniors on the roster this spring. It’s made for some excitement and high expectations so far.

“I definitely think, so far, this is our best year that we’ve had,” senior OLYMPIA GIRLS CURRENT RECORD: 8-2 2015 RESULT: 22-7; won district, advanced to state semifinal and fell to Lake Nona THE BUZZ: Despite losses to graduation after a historic season in 2015, the Titans continue to win this spring.

“They really play together, as a unit,” Johnson-Possell said.

“We’re not just six or seven strong — we’re eight and nine strong.”

After a strong showing at the St. Andrews Tournament in February, Olympia will get a chance at revenge this season, too.

“We play Lake Nona before spring break, and we’re definitely looking forward to that because they’re a senior-filled team,” senior Allison DeCicco said.

Spencer Segal said. “We have a full starting senior lineup — we’ve played together four years, so we all know each other.”

Beyond familiarity, having as many seniors as Olympia does should put it at an advantage athletically.

“Size and strength, in our sport, does make a difference,” coach Stephanie Johnson-Possell said.

The senior duo of Allison DeCicco and Sophie Hyler is hoping to lead Olympia back to the Final Four.

Thank You! At...

CHAMPIONED BY:

CONGRATULATIONS

CONGRATULATIONS

for being chosen as the recipient of the $1,000 grant from the West Orange Healthcare District to be used for nutrition or fitness needs at your school.

for being chosen as the recipients of the $500 advertising packages from the West Orange Times and Windermere Observer.

West Orange High School

Take the Pledge!

Plant-Based Table LLC & myDirectMD

• A Whole New Life • It Works • American Lung Association • Live 2 Row • Building Better Ministries, Inc. • Newstart ART • Center for Change, Inc. • Orange County Office on Aging • Community Health Centers, Inc. • Orange Theory Fitness • Premier Internal • D & T Wellness Medicine of Ocoee • Dance for Life • Primerica • Doctors at Home Tri County, LLC • Retro Fitness • Energy Wellness Center • Roper YMCA • Florida Blue • Shepherds Hope • Florida Center for Hormones & Wellness • Smart Fitness • Florida Film Academy • State Farm • Food For Life / West Orange Nephrology • Terry Sweet Crumbs • Girl Scouts of America • Titus Dental • Golden Pond • Tom West, Inc. / Blueberries • Health Central Hospital Laboratory • Health Central Hospital Rehabilitative Services • UF Health Cancer Center at Orlando Health • Walk-thru Colon • Health Central Hospital Food and Nutrition • Windermere Spa • Health Central Hospital Diabetes Education • Health Central Hospital Cardiac Rehab Services • Winter Garden Athletic Club • Winter Garden Squeeze • Health Central Hospital Stroke and Heart Disease Services • Orlando Health -- Health Central Park Log on to www.HealthyWestOrange.org • Orlando Health – Express Care to find out how you or your business

can take part in the next Expo.

www.HealthyWestOrange.org

Saturday, April 2nd

www.Facebook.com/HealthyWestOrange twitter.com/healthyworange

Windermere Rotary Spring Fest

Feel better about your health.

Connect with us for tips and health news!

10am - 4pm

Upcoming Health & Wellness Expos

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West Orange High School

199142

Health & Wellness Expo

To all the sponsors, businesses, families and individuals that came out to West Oaks Mall on February 27 for our first Healthy West Orange Health & Wellness Expo!

22A

WINDERMERE OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 3, 2016

|

W EAT HER

I LOVE WEST ORANGE

FORECAST

SUNRISE / SUNSET

THURSDAY, MAR. 3 High: 82 Low: 58 Chance of rain: 0%

FRIDAY, MAR. 4 High: 80 Low: 53 Chance of rain: 10%

Sunrise Sunset

Thursday, March 3

6:49a

6:27p

Friday, March 4

6:48a

6:28p

Saturday, March 5

6:47a

6:29p

Sunday, March 6

6:46a

6:29p

Monday, March 7

6:45a

6:30p

Tuesday, March 8

6:44a

6:30p

Wednesday, March 9

6:43a

6:31p

MOON PHASES

SATURDAY, MAR. 5 Mar. 23 Full

High: 79 Low: 54 Chance of rain: 0%

The West Orange Times & 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 and city and a caption, to aqrhode@orangeobserver.com; put “I Love West Orange” in the subject line. Please include your mailing address to receive your prize.

See other winning photos at OrangeObserver.com

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High: 80 Low: 56 Chance of rain: 0%

Tuesday, Feb. 23

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ONLINE

Mar. 15 First

Mar. 8 New

RAINFALL

SUNDAY, MAR. 6

Windermere resident Adriana Carrillo submitted this beautiful sunset photo.

Mar. 1 Last

1 Chapel vow 2 Fender imperfection 3 Above 4 Pasta dish 5 Trick 6 Kind of roast 7 “Love Boat” bartender 8 It’s spoken in India 9 Last Supper guest 10 ___ Diego Chargers 11 Greek island 12 “... so long ___ both shall live” 13 Unrivaled 14 Some head coverings 15 Big name in gas scholars command 77 Bashful buddy?

16 Casting assignments 29 Apartment balconies 52 Three-masted ship 79 “This is your brain on 17 Gives a heady reply?

30 Decorate with gold leaf 54 Kind of sauce or milk drugs,” for one 19 Capistrano returnee 32 Saddle seat back 55 Whale type 81 Take in a stray 23 Suffix with psych- or 34 Snap-together blocks 57 Contemptuous grin 83 Hand-cream enhancer neur35 Airtight, as an alibi 58 Eliot’s Marner 84 Fictional hunchback 25 Fields of endeavor 39 Country singer Mc60 Athletes from the U. of 85 End of several country 28 Oklahoma city or Cann 62-Across names writer Bagnold 40 Affirmative votes 62 Black-eyed susan state 87 Maiden-name intro31 The majority of 41 Source of trouble 64 Glaringly vivid ducer Jutlanders 42 Element of an unbal66 Police sound device 88 Caesar’s X 33 Long-handled spoon anced debate 68 Snaggable fabric 89 Small rural community 35 Goat with backward45 Stumblebum 69 Unintentional misuse 93 Show off, like Mr. curved horns 48 ___ out (barely get by) of a word America 36 Leaf-gathering tools 49 Took the World Series 72 Board above a shop 94 Boats like Noah’s 37 First 10-digit number in four games (var.)

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57 Abounding in trees 59 Knightly address 61 Far from scarce 63 Ham on ___ 65 Avoids, in a way 67 ___ in the bud 69 Castle protector 70 Up to snuff 71 Tigger’s friend 73 Abbr. in some group names 75 Blunt foils 78 Beehive State city 80 Engaged in battle 82 Send a message 84 Blotter stains 86 Peace-loving 89 Pest-control company 90 Put on a pedestal 91 Not in need of a diet 92 Lighten up 93 Strips blubber 94 Relieves, as hunger 97 Prayer-ending word 98 Popular beach in Sydney 99 Go over like ___ balloon 100 Oxford doctorate, briefly 101 Matisse or Rousseau 103 Gardening soil 104 Another, in Madrid 106 Horse controller 108 Pet with green “fur” 109 Trumpet or bugle 111 Waste watchers?

113 Women of the house 114 Married

CRYPTOQUIZ Each of the following cryptograms is a clue to the identity of a woman in history. Using the hints U=A and D=R, decipher the clues to name the woman.

1. L U D X H U W Q 2. N R U J K R D 3. J O B O H S U D 4. W E D P R 5. K E L U W O N U D O U W She founded the American Red Cross:

SUDOKU

Solve the puzzle by placing the numbers 1 March 3 (Easy, difficulty rating 0.44) through 9 in each row, column and box.

9 4 3

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8

7

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Windermere Observer reserves the right to classify and edit copy, or to reject or cancel an advertisement at any time. Corrections after first insertion only. *All ads are subject to the approval of the Publisher. *It is the responsibility of the party placing any ad for publication in Windermere Observer to meet all applicable legal requirements in connection with the ad such as compliance with town codes in first obtaining an occupational license for business, permitted home occupation, or residential rental property.

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24A

WINDERMERE OBSERVER

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OrangeObserver.com

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TOP SALES: Keene’s Pointe estate sells for $3 million. 4-6B > MARKETPLACE: Windermere attorney earns accolade. 7B

HOUSE + HOME BUSINESS BRIEFS Solar panels a Meritage standard Meritage Homes announced it will install high-efficiency SunPower solar panels on new homes purchased from the builder in the Orlando metro area during 2016.

Each 2-kilowatt solar electric system — valued at more than $10,000 per home — will be provided standard to homebuyers of to-be-constructed homes and also may qualify purchasers for up to a 30% tax credit.

Homeowners can track their solar production and estimate their savings at any time through a computer or mobile device.

For more information, visit MeritageHomes.com.

THURSDAY, MARCH 3, 2016

ORANGEOBSERVER.COM

Optimized search

Work begins on DP project

Pulte to host celebration Pulte homes celebrated recently the opening of Phase 2 of Royal Estates, a luxury community of singlefamily homes off Reams Road near Windermere.

The phase includes 62 new home sites; of those, 30 will be waterfront.

The community offers four one- and two-story home designs with four, five and six bedrooms, up to six baths, and threecar garages. Prices start from the high $300,000s.

Amenities at Royal Estates include a resort-style swimming pool, cabana and tot lot.

For more, visit pulte.com.

Lakefront Winter Garden....Over 4,000 heated sq feet of Custom Quality Construction. 5 Bedrooms and 3 1/2 baths with 2 Master Suites located downstairs. Pool, dock, sandy beach and fire pit on John’s Lake. Call for a private tour.

RENTING IN WEST ORANGE APARTMENT COMMUNITIES The costs at many of the apartment communities in West Orange are on the higher end of the spectrum, because communities are upscale and stay full.

“If anything, we need more of them, so they’re a little more accessible,” Zimek said.

Some communities that give the most bang for your buck are in south Ocoee, just north of Windermere, such as Zimek’s apartment partner Key Isle at Windermere, located just off Maguire Road.

He recommends renting from apartment communities rather than private owners, because communities often have 24-hour maintenance, proper insurance and people whose full-time job is dedicated to maintaining a positive experience.

SEE RENTING PAGE 2B

Jennifer Nesslar

Pete Zimek’s company iLS network works with apartment communities such as Key Isle at Windermere to help prospective renters find a community that matches their preferences.

West Orange resident Pete Zimek is getting recognition for his business, iLS network, which allows people looking to rent to find an apartment community that matches their preferences.

JENNIFER NESSLAR STAFF WRITER

J

ust because you’re renting doesn’t mean that you don’t have certain hopes for your future space. Perhaps you want a

nature view. Maybe tile is better for your allergies than carpet. And what do you do if you can’t fall asleep without a ceiling fan?

SEE STORY ON PAGE 2B

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Taylor Morrison began construction on their gated 34-lot, 11-acre development, The Reserve at Phillips Cove, located at Turkey Lake Road and Conroy Windermere Road, Orlando in the Dr. Phillips and Windermere area.

Prices will start from the high $400,000s for fourand five-bedroom homes ranging from 2,600 to 4,100 square feet. The average lot size will be 60-feet-by-140feet and will include oneand two-story floor plans.

For more information, visit taylormorrison.com.

Lakefront Romanesque features in this over 4300 sq ft 5 bedroom 4 1/2 bath pool home located in the heart of Clermont on Lake Minnehaha.

Call for a private tour.

RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • CALL US TODAY 407-905-6700 • PROPERTY MANAGEMENT • BUSINESS BROKERAGE

Co

WINDERMERE OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, MARCH 3, 2016

iLS network assists renters CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1B

“We believe that few things are more personal than helping someone find a place to live.”

— Pete Zimek

Pete Zimek, founder and CEO of iLS network, a company that uses internet listings to match renters with apartments that best fit their lifestyle and budget, believes his company can help with those specific searches.

“Whatever it is that’s important to them, we generally have a way for them to find a community that matches that need, that lifestyle, and that budget,” said Zimek, a Horizon West resident.

The company gives potential renters more than 200 search options to find the community that is right for them.

Zimek’s effort has paid off. The University of Florida — where he earned his bachelor’s degree in history in 2001 and his master’s degree in management in 2002 — recently awarded Zimek the Gator 100 award, which honors the fastest-growing business owned or led by UF alumni.

“We believe that few things are more personal than helping someone find a place to live,” Zimek said.

ABOUT THE COMPANY

There are only six staff members at iLS network, but the company is able to use technology to leverage to work with more than a half-million renters each year.

“It’s because we built what we think is interactive and powerful technology,” he said. “Our goal is to allow a renter to really find out what’s unique and compelling

Butler Chain of Lakes | $2,371,000

Stunning Country Manor on the Butler Chain. 5,000 sf includes luxurious master retreat, custom theater, office and unique collectibles such as antique door and phone booth. Laundry rooms on each floor, 3 car garage and boat dock with electric cover. No HOA!

Butler Chain of Lakes | $1,595,000

Motivated seller. One story residence on 1 acre with 115’ of shoreline and spectacular sunsets. Dramatic open plan includes 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, island kitchen and full sized bar.

Amanda Black

REALTOR®, Interior Designer amandablackfl@gmail.com

about an apartment community.”

The company partners with apartment communities to develop listings and content.

The network does not work with people who are renting out houses or properties outside of apartment communities, because it has confidence that the communities have greater incentive to deliver a quality product. “(Apartment communities) have a business,” he said. “They have a brand, they have a community that they have a lot invested in. So, they’ll take the extra time to get good photos. They’ll take the extra time to respond to problems with renters and that sort of thing. They’ll just take the extra time.”

The company customizes its approach to different cities, to localize the content potential buyers are sorting through. It began in the Gainesville market and has since expanded into markets across Florida — Orlando, Tallahassee, Jacksonville, Tampa Bay and Melbourne and Daytona Beach. Each of these markets has different offerings and unique prospective renters, so each market is branded differently. In Orlando, renters search for apartments through 407apartments. com.

In Gainesville, renters have a strong association with the Gators, collegiate looks and the colors orange and blue. The demographic in Orlando is quite different.

Lake Whitney | $1,795,000

Fabulous Lake Whitney residence with gated front courtyard and separate guest house. 7,000 sf of luxurious living area includes game room, theater, wine cellar and office. Resort style backyard with boat house, infinity edge pool, fire pit, 5 hole putting green and more!

Horizons West | $349,000

Martha Stewart Energy Star home. 5 bed, 3 bath with fine details throughout. Community amenities include pool and tot lot. Great location in area of new growth.

Judy Black

Renting CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1B

“In Orlando, we’re dealing with the entire spectrum,” Zimerk said. “We’re dealing with a very, very, diverse population. We need to make sure that we’re not overly student or overly West Orange or overly East Orange. There’s just so much diversity to Orlando — it’s just important to make sure that we embrace all of it.”

The company expanded into the Orlando area because of all the opportunities there. Zimek knew there would be working with great apartments — the Apartment Association of Greater Orlando has a reputation for being one of the best in the country.

CHOOSING WEST ORANGE

Zimek was living in Gainesville, but as his company began to grow in Orlando, he found himself commuting to Orlando multiple times a week.

He decided to move his family to the Orlando area in 2014 and spent time looking through neighborhoods all over the area, but was unable to find the perfect fit — until he discovered Horizon West.

“On a hunch, we said, ‘Let’s go check out Windermere,’ thinking that it was not going to be affordable — we didn’t think that it would even be an option,” he said.

“But we started driving down (County Road) 535 and just fell in love with the neighborhood.”

Contact Jennifer Nesslar at jnesslar@orangeobserver.com.

Lake Crescent | $945,000

Sprawling two story estate on 1+ acre premium lot.

4,500 sf of open spaces with spectacular lake views and inviting pool lanai. 2 tiered boat house with 140’ of sandy shoreline. HOA dues only $35 per year!

Lake Butler | $2,150,000

Panoramic waterfront with 100’ of sandy shoreline. .88 acre corner lot in the Town of Windermere is cleared and ready to build. Seawall and brand new boathouse with double jetski lifts. Freedom from HOA dues and restrictions!

Broker Associate 407.810.1803 judyblackfla@gmail.com

To use Zimek’s site to hunt for apartments locally, visit 407apartments.com.

RENTING HOMES If you decide a single-family home is a better option for your family, Denise Gregorie, of Watson Realty Corp, recommends working with a Realtor.

“The advantage of having a Realtor involved is we use our MLS system — our database — and any renters that are in that database are rental properties that use a property management company,” she said. “That is just a level of protection for both the renter and the (owner).”

Realtors are able to get access to information about the property. They can look and see if there are liens on the property or if the current mortgage has been paid, as well as verify that the listing is being made by the person who owns the property.

Gregorie is particularly fond of Winter Garden, because its active downtown area is generating more opportunities for renting and buying singlefamily homes. Those looking for town houses also can find them in the Winter Garden and Horizon West areas. However, Gregorie also said homebuying is more economical than renting. She encourages people to look into lease-topurchase programs, which allow people to rent and consider a purchase later.

Willow Wood | $699,000

Re-designed home is located on a high corner lot overlooking pond. 4,000 sf offers dramatic designer kitchen, 3 car garage and heated pool and summer kitchen. Quality finishes throughout include travertine and wood floors, plantation shutters, LED lighting and custom built-ins. Move-in ready!

Windermere Downs | $579,900

2,500 sf of living area extends to private back yard with pool, patios and cabanas. Quality finishes throughout including wood, bamboo and travertine floors. Amenities include beach, boat ramp and dock on the Butler Chain.

THE JUDY BLACK TEAM www.judyblacklakefront.com

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12914 Vennetta Way Townhome in Windermere 3 bed / 2.5 bath / 1,644 Sq Ft Offered at $204,000

Offices in Celebrati and Dave

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949 Westpark # 207 Celebration

1209 Downey Place Celebration

MLS # G4812461 3 bed, 2 bath, 1897 sq ft Fannie Mae Homepath Property

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

4150 Blue Major Single Family Home in Windermere 4 bed / 3.5 bath / 2,986 Sq Ft Offered at $425,000

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Offered at: $415,000

MLS # S4812883 2 bed 2 bath 1211 sq ft End unit Water St condo

MLS # S4815324 3 bed 3.5 bath 3100 sq ft Townhouse with 2 car garage

Offered at: $ 579,000

Offered at: $209,000

Offered at: $409,000

949 Westpark # 207 Celebration

1209 Downey Place Celebration

MLS # G4812461 3 bed, 2 bath, 1897 sq ft Fannie Mae Homepath Property

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

MLS # S4810230

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

Offered at: $275,000

MLS #

MLS # S4816524 5 bed 3 bath 3051 sq ft 3 car garage

1410 Celebration Ave # 407 Celebration MLS S4810230

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

Offered at: Offered at: $219,900

Offered at: $

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

Single Family Home Offered at: $499,000 in Dr. Phillips Offered at: $235,000 5 bed / 3.5 bath / 2,834 sq ft Offered at $485,000

#

$219,900 Offered

206 Norfolk Pl Celebration

754 Siena Palm Celebra

MLS# # S4727247 MLS S4814151 4 bed 3.5 bath, 3028 sq ft 3 bed 2.5 bath 2077 sq ft Lowest priced SFH in Celebration with Garage a garage With 2 Car

MLS # S48 2 bed 2 bath Fully furnish 1 car ga

1102 Wilde Dr – Celebration

604 Mulberry Ave # 1101 Celebration S4810845

3 bed 2 bath MLS 1943 sq ft MLS # S4724783 # S4726678 MLS # O5325911 bed 2 bath, sqbed ft 2 bath 1435 sq 2 bed 2garage bath 1196 sq ft 3 bed 32bath 1736 sq ft 1345 2 1 car detached ft First floor condo. 1 car garage 5th floor condo. garage garage 1 car1 car detached 4th floor condo with balcony Offered at: $329,000

MLS # S48 2 bed 2 bath End unit Wate

1109 Ashbee Ln Celebration

Celebration

764 Celebration Ave, #2202 Celebration

1400 Celebration Ave # 406 Celebration

789 Celebra Celebra

Offered at: $ 579,000 9557 Wickham Way

Townhome in Windermere Offered at: $429,900 Offered at: $429,999 Offered at: $219,900 4 bed / 3.5 bath / 1,825 sq ft.

ED C Offered at DU E R $289,000 1211 Stonecutter Dr # 502 Celebration - Artisan Club

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908 Waterside Dr Celebration

Offered at: 754$415,000 Siena Palm Dr # 101

206 Norfolk Pl Celebration

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316 Charleston Pl Celebration

MLS # S4816524 5 bed 3 bath 3051 sq ft 3 car garage

764 Celebration Ave, #2202 Celebration

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

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789 Celebration Ave Celebration

Offered at:Lake $299,900 Rd 10753 Village

267 Goldenrain Dr, #30-267 Celebration

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908 Waterside Dr Celebration

1400 Celebration Ave # 406 Celebration

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

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Offered at: $299,900

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407.566.0555

Multi-Lingual Offices

Toll Free 1-877-YOUR C21

Property Management Line 407-566-9382

THURSDAY, MARCH 3, 2016

New Windermere office in the Lakeside Village Shopping Center: 720 Celebration Avenue, Suite 100, 720 Celebration Av 7798 Winter Garden Vineland #116 FLRoad Celebration 34747 Celebration Windermere, Fl 34786 Facebook.com/Century21Celebration Facebook.com/Cent Facebook.com/Century21Celebration Multi-Lingual Offices Twitter: https://twitter.com/C21BlueSkyFL Offices in Celebration, Windermere Multi-Lingua and Davenport

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

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apartment

at: $275,000 at:Offered $429,900

Offered at: $529,000 $429,999 Offered at:

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931 Spring Park Loop - Celebration

6749 Valhalla Way Golf Course View in Keene’s Point Single Family Home in Windermere 5 bed / 6.5 bath / 6,035 sq ft Offered at $1,899,990

307 E. Harwood Street Single Family Home in Orlando 5 bed / 5.5 bath / 3,961 sq ft Offered at $924,000

11946 Waterstone Loop 267 Goldenrain Dr, #30-267 Celebration

Single Family Home in MLS # S4809113 3 bed 2.5 bath 2091 sq ft Windermere condo. 2 car garage 4 bed / 4.5 bath / 3,442 sq ft Offered at: $275,000 3 car garage Offered at $898,000

f

MLS # S4817743 4 bed 3.5 bath 2817 sq ft under air Custom Garage, 38’x 26’ with 1211 Stonecutter Dr # 5029’ garage 3 separate doors.

1410 Celebration Ave # 407

908 Waterside Drive

Single Celebration - Artisan Club

Family Home in Celebration Celebration MLS # S4724783 MLS # O5325911 3 bed 3 bath 1736 sq ft 2 bath 5 bed / 3 bath 2/ bed 3,051 sq 1435 ft sq ft 5th floor condo. 1 car garage 4th floor condo with balcony at at: $219,900 Offered at: $329,000 OfferedOffered $569,000

604 Mulberry A Celebra

Offered at $721,900

MLS # S47 2 bed 2 bath First floor condo. 1

www.Century21BlueSky.com

Offered at: $

Featur

931 Spring P

ML 4 bed 3.5 b Custom G 3 separa

Offe

824 Bridgeford Crossing Blvd Single Family Home in Davenport 4 beds / 3 bath / 1,962 sq ft Offered at $224,900

FEATURED RENTALS

4643 Egg Harbor Drive

1000 Periwinkle Ct.

Single Family Home in Kissimmee 3 bed / 2.5 bath / 1,955 Sq Ft Rental at $1,800 Per Month

Single Family Home in Celebration 4 bed / 3 bath / 2,107 Sq Ft Rental at $2,600 Per Month

1200 Roycroft Avenue

803 Spring Park Loop

Single Family Home in Celebration 6 bed / 4.5 bath / 5,071 sq ft Offered at $915,000

Single Family Home in Celebration 7 bed / 6.5 bath / 4,692 Sq Ft Offered at $1,169,000

www.Century21BlueSky

FEATURED REAL ESTATE LISTING

1451 Whitney Isles Drive Single Family Home in Windermere 4 bed / 3.5 bath / 3,866 Sq Ft Offered at $519,999

www.Century21BlueSky.com

198853

931 Spring Park Loop Single Family Home in Celebration 4 bed / 3.5 bath / 2,817 sq ft Offered at $696,000

WINDERMERE OBSERVER

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OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 3, 2016

Keene’s Pointe estate sells for $3 million

A

n estate in Keene’s Pointe topped all West Orange-area residential real-estate transactions from Feb. 12 to 18.

The home at 6149 Grosvenor Shore Drive, Windermere, sold Feb. 12, for $3 million. Built in 2013, it has five bedrooms, five-and-onehalf baths, a pool and 5,578 square feet of living area on 2.65 acres.

The price per square foot is $537.83.

SNAPSHOT

Total Sales: 51 High Sale Price: $3 million Low Sale Price: $29,000 REO/Bank Owned: Eight Auction/REO: One Short Sales: Four

Courtesy photos

This Keene’s Pointe home, at 6149 Grosvenor Shore Drive, Windermere, sold Feb. 12, for $3 million. Situated on the Tibet-Butler Chain of Lakes, the home features a wine cellar, media room with movie-theater seating, summer kitchen and boat dock.

DR. PHILLIPS

HORIZON WEST

The home at 8024 Chianti Drive, Orlando, sold Feb. 16, for $274,950. Built in 1980, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 1,761 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $156.13.

The home at 2337 Aurelius Drive, Winter Garden, sold Feb. 17, for $305,965. Built in 2015, it has four bedrooms, four baths and 2,568 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $119.15.

BAY LAKES AT GRANADA

The home at 8048 Jozee Circle, Orlando, sold Feb. 16, for $232,000. Built in 1980, it has three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 1,613 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $143.83.

POINT CYPRESS

The town house at 8930 Della Scala Circle, Orlando, sold Feb. 18, for $390,000. Built in 2010, it has four bedrooms, threeand-one-half baths and 2,698 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $144.55.

VIZCAYA HEIGHTS

The condo at 8743 The Esplanade, No. 16, Orlando, sold Feb. 15, for $438,800. Built in 2006, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 2,162 square feet of living area. The price per square foot OWNER’S TITLE INSURANCE is $202.96.

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The home at 15548 Gwinnett Drive, Winter Garden, sold Feb. 12, for $380,000. Built in 2015, it has three bedrooms, twoand-one-half baths and 3,064 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $124.02.

EDEN’S HAMMOCK

The town house at 14101 Ancilla Blvd., Windermere, sold Feb. 12, for $214,900 (REO/bank owned). Built in 2006, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 1,490 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $144.23.

ENCLAVE AT BERKSHIRE PARK

The home at 13781 Darchance Road, Windermere, sold Feb. 16, for $425,000. Built in 2007, it has five bedrooms, three-and-

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GRANDE PINES

The home at 11845 Sheltering Pine Drive, Orlando, sold Feb. 12, for $350,000 (REO/bank owned). Built in 2008, it has five bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths, a pool and 3,464 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $101.04.

INDEPENDENCE/ SIGNATURE LAKES

The home at 14811 Old Thicket Terrace, Winter Garden, sold Feb. 12, for $266,000 (REO/ bank owned). Built in 2006, it has four bedrooms, two-andone-half baths and 2,700 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $98.52.

The home at 15221 Avenue of the Arbors, Winter Garden, sold Feb. 18, for $249,900. Built in 2015, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,940 square feet of living area.

The price per square foot is $128.81.

The home at 14214 Prunningwood Place, Winter Garden, sold Feb. 12, for $240,000 (short sale). Built in 2005, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,373 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $101.14.

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The home at 7542 Belted Kingfisher Way, Winter Garden, sold Feb. 16, for $395,095. Built in 2016, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 3,472 square feet of living area.

The price per square foot is $113.79.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 6B

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The home at 4361 Old Sycamore Loop, Winter Garden, sold Feb. 8, for $351,420. Built in 2016, it has four bedrooms, four baths, three half-baths and 2,988 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $117.61.

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The town house at 12962 Vennetta Way, Windermere, sold Feb. 12, for $201,000 (REO/ bank owned). Built in 2008, it has three bedrooms, two-andone-half baths and 1,644 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $122.26.

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The town house at 12359 Langstaff Drive, Windermere, sold Feb. 15, for $196,000. Built in 2013, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,520 square feet of living area.

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WATERLEIGH

The home at 8721 Bayview Crossing Drive, Winter Garden, sold Feb. 12, for $350,395. Built in 2015, it has four bedrooms, three-andone-half baths and 2,911 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $120.37.

METROWEST

CENTRAL PARK AT METROWEST

The condo at 6184 Westgate Drive, No. 203, Orlando, sold Feb. 15, for $70,000. Built in 1988, it has one bedroom, one bath and 1,228 square feet of living area.

The price per square foot is $57.

MADISON AT METROWEST

The condo at 2572 Robert Trent Jones Drive, No. 210, Orlando, sold Feb. 12, for $81,000. Built in 1995, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,014 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $79.88.

MANDALAY AT STONEBRIDGE COMMONS

The town house at 2931 Metro Sevilla Drive, No. 101, Orlando, sold Feb. 17, for $244,900 (REO/ bank owned). Built in 2005, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 2,369 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $103.38.

PEMBROOKE

The home at 2907 Langley Park Court, Orlando, sold Feb. 16, for $225,000. Built in 1990, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 1,950 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $115.38.

TRADEWINDS

The condo at 1081 S. Hiawassee Road, No. 727, Orlando, sold Feb. 15, for $71,000. Built in 1989, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 836 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $84.93.

VENTURA AT STONEBRIDGE COMMONS

The condo at 2484 San Tecla St., No. 210, Orlando, sold Feb. 12, for $140,000. Built in 2005, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,412 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $99.15.

MONTVERDE

MONTVERDE HILLS

The manufactured home at 17550 Eve Drive, Montverde, sold Feb. 13, for $52,500. Built in 1988, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 1,560 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $33.65.

OCOEE

COVENTRY AT OCOEE

The home at 2715 Coventry Lane, Ocoee, sold Feb. 17, for $209,000.

Built in 1991, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths, a pool and 2,102 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $99.43.

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 3, 2016

HARBOUR HIGHLANDS

The home at 509 Bernadino Drive, Ocoee, sold Feb. 15, for $178,500 (REO/bank owned). Built in 1989, it has three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 2,203 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $81.03.

SILVER GLEN

The home at 305 Forrest Crest Court, Ocoee, sold Feb. 12, for $256,000. Built in 1992, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths, a pool and 3,000 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $85.33.

VILLAGES OF WESMERE

The home at 279 White Dogwood Lane, Ocoee, sold Feb. 16, for $166,500 (REO/bank owned).

Built in 2008, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,190 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $76.03.

Courtesy photo

This Point Cypress town house, at 8930 Della Scala Circle, Orlando, sold Feb. 18, for $390,000. Upgrades include crown molding, wainscoting in the dining room, surround-sound wiring and flatscreen TV wiring.

WESTYN BAY

The home at 2674 Migliara Lane, Ocoee, sold Feb. 12, for $319,900.

Built in 2006, it has five bedrooms, three baths and 3,586 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $89.21.

The town house at 734 Marotta Loop, Ocoee, sold Feb. 17, for $169,180. Built in 2015, it has two bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,533 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $110.36.

WEST ORANGE

HAWTHORNE SUITES AT LAKE BUENA VISTA

The suite at 8303 Palm Parkway, No. 524, Orlando, sold Feb. 12, for $62,000. Built in 2000, it has one bedroom, one bath and 547 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $113.35.

FRISCO BAY

The home at 337 Sonoma Valley Circle, Orlando, sold Feb. 16, for $154,000 (short sale). Built in 1988, it has three bedrooms, twoand-one-half baths and 1,854 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $83.06.

Michael Eng

This Oakland Park home, at 865 Rhett St., Winter Garden, sold Feb. 12, for $462,640. The kitchen features 42-inch cabinets, granite countertops and stainlesssteel appliances.

WESTMOOR

OAKLAND PARK

STONEYBROOK WEST

WINDERMERE

STONE CREEK

The home at 2143 Oakington St., Winter Garden, sold Feb. 12, for $244,500. Built in 2003, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,565 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $156.23.

The home at 131 Cranfield Court, Orlando, sold Feb. 12, for $109,234 (short sale). Built in 1986, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,180 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $92.57.

THE FARMS

The home at 5928 Iona Ave., Orlando, sold Feb. 12, for $127,000. Built in 1999, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 1,342 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $94.63.

The home at 4137 Equestrian Lane, Windermere, sold Feb. 12, for $492,000. Built in 1990, it has four bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 3,133 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $157.04.

ORLA VISTA HEIGHTS

KEENE’S POINTE

LAKE HILL

The home at 325 S. Buena Vista Ave., Orlando, sold Feb. 12, for $29,000. Built in 1955, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,276 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $22.73.

VALENCIA HILLS

The home at 8103 Lesia Circle, Orlando, sold Feb. 16, for $195,000. Built in 1988, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 1,742 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $111.94.

This Cove at Hamlin home, at 15548 Gwinnett Drive, Winter Garden, sold Feb. 12, for $380,000. This European-style cottage features a glass front door with iron accents and private rear courtyard.

The home at 6134 Keene’s Pointe Drive, Windermere, sold Feb. 16, for $1.08 million. Built in 2002, it has four bedrooms, three-andone-half baths, a pool and 4,440 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $243.24.

The home at 865 Rhett St., Winter Garden, sold Feb. 12, for $462,640. Built in 2015, it has four bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 2,682 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $172.50.

The home at 1840 Sherbourne St., Winter Garden, sold Feb. 18, for $195,000. Built in 2002, it has four bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 1,541 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $126.54.

The home at 15319 Starleigh Road, Winter Garden, sold Feb. 12, for $170,000. Built in 2001, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,365 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $124.54.

The home at 2235 Black Lake Blvd., Winter Garden, sold Feb. 16, for $271,500 (REO/bank owned). Built in 2007, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,567 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $105.77.

WESTSIDE TOWNHOMES

The town house at 1312 Eagle Lane, Winter Garden, sold Feb. 12, for $55,000 (short sale). Built in 1994, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,260 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $43.65.

WAUSEON RIDGE

The home at 11130 Park Ave., Windermere, sold Feb. 12, for $262,500. Built in 1969, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 1,925 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $136.36.

WHITNEY ISLES AT BELMERE

The home at 1627 Whitney Isles Drive, Windermere, sold Feb. 17, for $304,394 (auction/REO).

Built in 2005, it has four bedrooms, four baths and 2,716 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $112.07.

WINTER GARDEN CARRIAGE POINTE

This Farms home, at 4137 Equestrian Lane, Windermere, sold Feb. 12, for $492,000. The Farms community offers boarding for horses and pasture.

The home at 2130 Remark Lane, Winter Garden, sold Feb. 12, for $343,000. Built in 2011, it has four bedrooms, four baths and 3,172 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $108.13.

This Enclave at Berkshire Park home, at 13781 Darchance Road, Windermere, sold Feb. 16, for $425,000.

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practice, Cary Moss, along with her parents, works with clients to provide assistance with issues such as estate-planning and settlement, long-term care planning, guardianship for adult incapacitated individuals who don’t have estate planning documents, and probate and trust administration. Their firm also offers special-needs trust planning for special-needs beneficiaries.

And as president of AFELA, Cary Moss will oversee quarterly board meetings, an annual strategic planning meeting and multiple committees that keep the organization running smoothly. Her goal is to move the organization forward in finding better ways to serve its members so they can take what they learn back to their practices to benefit their own clients. The position is also solely volunteer based.

“I am honored that people respect me enough to feel that I can lead the organization, so I’m proud of that,” she said. “Being on that inside track and hearing about things that are coming down the road makes me so much more knowledgeable and beneficial to my clients, and it’s fun.”

ELDER LAW: THE BASICS

WINDERMERE OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

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MARKETPLACE Presidential practice Attorney Cary L. Moss recently was named president of the Academy of Florida Elder Law Attorneys.

DANIELLE HENDRIX

“I am honored that people respect me enough to feel that I can lead the organization.”

—Cary L. Moss

ACADEMY OF FLORIDA ELDER LAW ATTORNEYS ADDRESS: 3380 Barrow Hill Trail, Tallahassee PHONE: (850) 296-8089 EMAIL: jennifer@afela.org SAWYER & SAWYER, P.A. ADDRESS: 8913 Conroy Windermere Road, Orlando PHONE: (407) 909-1900

STAFF WRITER WINDERMERE

The newest president of the Academy of Florida Elder Law Attorneys lives and practices in Windermere.

Cary L. Moss,of Sawyer & Sawyer, P.A., started as a member of AFELA years ago and earned the position as its president for 2016 after four years of dedicated leadership in the organization, having previously been its treasurer and secretary, as well.

“I spend a lot of time trying to make the organization better and to bring value to the members, but as much as I put in, I get back quite a bit by knowing about issues going on with elders and getting to bring that back to my clients,” she said.

AFELA, the state chapter for the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys, provides education to its members, advocates on behalf of clients and attorneys in the state and takes action when necessary from the standpoint of trying to protect elderly and disabled clients across the state, Moss said. The leadership also talks about issues circulating across the state that may affect

seniors, and has a lobbyist who monitors bills being filed and works with state legislators.

“We definitely have a good pulse on what’s happening across the state legislatively and also from the standpoint of any rule making going on with agencies across the state,” she said.

Elder law is a branch of legal practice that places emphasis on issues dealing with the elderly population. Under its umbrella are three main categories: estate planning and administration, long-term care issues and guardianship. However, it also includes disability and medical care, and wills and trusts.

Cary started in elder law after her parents, Tom Moss and Carolyn H. Sawyer — who are secondcareer attorneys — launched the firm while dealing with issues pertaining to her grandmother.

Sawyer first opened an office in Williamsburg, a community near SeaWorld, to focus on elder law. As they built their clientele, they became involved in elderlaw associations and eventually opened the current Windermere office.

As managing partner of the

Definition: A facet of legal practice pertaining specifically to the elderly.

Includes (among other things): n Guardianships n Disability planning n Estate planning, including wills, probate and trusts n Health law n Long-term care placement n Medicaid/Medicare claims and appeal n Mental health law n Retirement n Social Security and disability claims and appeals

Contact Danielle Hendrix at dhendrix@orangeobserver.com.

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