05.09.19 The Observer

YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.

Observer

WINDERMERE • HORIZON WEST • DR. PHILLIPS • BAY HILL FREE

VOLUME 4, NO. 33

YOUR TOWN SENIORS INVITED TO RECEPTION Palm Lake Elementary School is holding a reception for former Bobcats who are about to graduate from high school.

The reception is at 3:30 p.m. Thursday, May 9, in the PLES media center. Former students are invited to celebrate, catch up with old friends and teachers and share a favorite memory.

To RSVP for this year’s reception, call the school at (407) 354-2610.

West Orange Junior Service League hosts Run for the Roses. PAGE 8.

Living in the moment Valerie Esoff has learned to appreciate every moment in the first year of her baby boy’s life. PAGE 4.

Second Harvest is calling on Central Florida residents to open their cupboards to help local families in need. Collect nonperishable food items such as canned soups, meats, vegetables and dry goods like pasta, rice and cereal, place them in a sturdy bag and leave them by the mailbox by 9 a.m. Saturday, May 11.

The bags will be collected by local letter carriers as part of the 27th annual Stamp Out Hunger! food drive.

AMY QUESINBERRY COMMUNITY EDITOR

Amy Quesinberry

“Motherhood is more than anything I could have ever imagined,” said Valerie Esoff, a first-time mother to 11-month-old Keith Parker.

Orange County gives updates on Dr. Phillips development

SPORTS

The Historic Preservation Board needs individuals to interview and collect the memories of longtime residents.

THURSDAY, MAY 9, 2019

A Derby Day delight

DONATE FOOD TO STAMP OUT HUNGER

Windermere seeks help to capture oral histories

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County leaders held a Town Hall meeting to update Dr. Phillips residents about development activities.

When a member of the older generation dies, gone too are their memories, in many cases. The town of Windermere’s Historic Preservation Board is embarking on a project to col-

ERIC GUTIERREZ STAFF WRITER

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ATHLETE OF THE YEAR Olympia High water polo star Luke Carey earns district’s top honor. SEE PAGE 11.

Orange County government officials gave Dr. Phillips residents updates on ongoing projects and activity in their area during a Town Hall meeting Thursday, May 2, at the Rosen Jewish Community Center.

Chief Planner Eric Raasch was

the first to give a presentation at the meeting and discussed the ongoing development projects in Dr. Phillips. He divided the area into three sections — north, central and south.

“The north section (is) generally boundaried by the turnpike,” Raasch said. “(Then there’s) the SEE COUNTY PAGE 4

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THURSDAY, MAY 9

YOUR CALENDAR

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, MAY 9, 2019

“BE THE VISION” FUNDRAISING LUNCHEON 11:30 a.m. registration, noon event at Renaissance Orlando at SeaWorld, 6677 Sea Harbor Drive, Orlando. Orlando Health is a sponsor of this fundraiser. Jay. Brock@orlandohealth.com or (321) 843-8662.

RISE: CONVERSATIONS ON RACE & UNITY “CONVERSATIONS ON RACE” 6:30 to 9 p.m. Thursday, May 9, at the Roper Co-Op Ballroom, 146 W. Plant St., Suite 210, Winter Garden. This communitywide event is hosted by Oasis Church Winter Garden and facilitated

by Valencia College’s Peace and Justice Institute. It will provide a safe space to focus on our shared humanity with an exploration of race, privilege, bias, systems of privilege and oppression, and practical application.

Refreshments included. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased at eventbrite.com/e/rise-conversations-on-race-unity-tickets54097845111?aff=erellivmlt.

(407) 905-4931.

SATURDAY, MAY 11

STAMP OUT HUNGER! 9 a.m. Saturday, May 11, all around West Orange County.

Second Harvest is collecting non-perishable food items and dry goods that are placed in a sturdy bag and left by the mailbox. The bags will be collected by local letter carriers as part of the 27th annual Stamp Out Hunger! food drive. FeedHopeNow.org.

SUNDAY, MAY 12

AVE MARIA: A CELEBRATION OF MOTHER’S DAY 3 p.m. Sunday, May 12, at Mary Queen of the Universe Shrine, 8300 Vineland Ave., Orlando.

The Basilica Choir and friends perform music in honor of the Mother of God and mothers everywhere among 10,000 roses.

Individual concerts are $25; a season subscription to four concerts is $65. For information, call (407) 239-6600 or go to maryqueenoftheuniverse.org.

MONDAY, MAY 13

CENTRAL FLORIDA RAILWAY HISTORICAL SOCIETY MEETING 7 p.m. Monday, May 13, at the Central Florida Railroad Museum, 101 S. Boyd St., Winter Garden. Steven Olszewski will present “The Smoky Mountain Railroad.” Free. (407) 656-0559.

WEST ORANGE REPUBLICAN WOMEN FEDERATED MEETING 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Thursday, May 9, at the West Orange Country Club, 3300 West Orange Country Club Drive, Winter Garden. Guest speaker Amapola TUESDAY, MAY 14 Hansberger will discuss “DeMEET THE ARTISTS: bunking the Lies and Myths of ALI AKI AND PATRICIA the Left on Immigration.” Buffet STEEL RADOVICH lunch is $20. Donations of non7 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 14, perishable breakfast items will at the Southwest Library, 7255 be collected for Edgewood ChilDella Drive, Orlando. Meet oridren’s Ranch. RSVP at rebecgami artist Al Aki and watercolor catmellen@gmail.com or (407) artist Patricia Steele Radovich.

230-5968.

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origami and Chinese watercolor into harmonious and bold art in their exhibit, “Harmony of Origami and Chinese Watercolor.” Light refreshments will be served. (407) 835-7323.

SPANISH BOOK CLUB 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 14, at the Windermere Library, 530 Main St. Do you love literature, poetry and music? Would you like to socialize with others who share your interests? Join the Spanish-language book club.

(407) 835-7323.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15

GETTING STARTED WITH BLOGS 6 p.m. Wednesday, May 15, at the Southwest Library, 7255 Della Drive, Orlando. Share your recipes or travels with others by starting your own blog. Learn to add content, images and videos to a post. Change the appearance of your blog with simple theme tools. (407) 835-7323.

MAKING SENSE OF SUGAR 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 15, in the Bradford Room at Orlando Health — Health Central Hospital, 10000 W. Colonial Drive, Ocoee. With so many sugar options, deciding what sweetener to use can be a challenge for health-conscious consumers. Learn about popular products and what science says about their nutrient content and safety profiles. Presented free

by Orlando Health – UF Health Cancer Center. Open to the public. Seating is limited; register at CancerSupportCommunity@ orlandohealth.com or call (321) 841-5056.

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Preservation project CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

lect as many oral histories as it can of longtime town residents before any more memories slip away.

George Poelker is the board chairman, and he is hoping to recruit three or four individuals to conduct the interviews, which will be captured in an audiovisual format and later be made available to the public. The interviewers will be trained, so all of the videos are consistent.

What is the criteria for conducting the interviews?

“Mostly enthusiasm,” Poelker said. “They’re not going to be on camera, probably. What we anticipate is having cameras set up for the interview — it might be like ’60 Minutes.’ … You have to be able to listen, be able to think on your feet and be able to extract the story from what the people tell you and keep them on track.”

The committee has started a list of longtime residents it would like to interview.

“What spurred this — people who have lived here a long time … are starting to pass away, and we are letting them get away without getting their story out of them. We thought it would be good to have their stories. …

We can just record the history of the town. We’re just trying to get their story.”

Poelker said he is pleased with the people involved in this project. One of the com-

mittee members is Andrew McGee, a trained anthropologist who works in the technology field. Another member is a sound professional in the movie industry.

The Town Council liaison is Council Member Andy Williams, whose family has a long history in Windermere. He started the list through his family’s connections, and others have been adding names.

“We want them to be as old as we can possibly get them,” Poelker said. “We want to get the 75-, 85-, 90-year-olds before they’re gone. We’re in a battle against time. And then we’ll work on the people who are younger.”

Poelker added that those being interviewed don’t have to live in Windermere currently but must have life experiences in the town.

The purpose of the Historic Preservation Board is to preserve the history of the town of Windermere and its historic buildings. It was responsible for saving the 1887 Schoolhouse and has worked on two other buildings on the National Register of Historic Places: the Cal Palmer Building and Windermere Town Hall.

“We’re just trying to preserve a small slice of that history,” Poelker said.

Those interested in becoming an interviewer can send an email to gpoelker@town.windermere.fl.us to be forwarded to the selection committee.

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Goodwill searches for new CEO Horizon West resident Nima Hodaei resigned last month after barely a year on the job.

DANIELLE HENDRIX BLACK TIE EDITOR

Danielle Hendrix

Orange County District 4 School Board Member Pam Gould said Shepherd’s Hope “is just where I’m meant to be.”

The Gould standard Orange County District 4 School Board Member Pam Gould recently was named Shepherd’s Hope’s new president and CEO. SHEPHERD’S HOPE — WINTER GARDEN 455 Ninth St., Winter Garden DONATIONS: With Shepherd’s Hope’s sixth clinic — located in Winter Garden — set to open next month, there is still a need for financial contributions to purchase miscellaneous items for the new clinic.

Donations are being accepted online at shepherdshope.org/ supporters.

DANIELLE HENDRIX BLACK TIE EDITOR

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ith a heart for serving her community, Orange County District 4 School Board Member Pam Gould recently took on another title — president and CEO of Shepherd’s Hope.

Gould, a West Orange County resident, was introduced to the nonprofit’s supporters as its new president and CEO during the Call to Hope fundraising breakfast April 24.

Since moving to the area in 1990, Gould is no stranger to service in the community. She began in the finance department of Orlando Health before becoming vice president of community relations at Health Central Hospital, where she also served as president of the hospital’s foundation. Most recently, she had her own consulting company. Other credits include having once served as interim president and CEO of Dave’s House, and her current services as the Orange County School Board District 4 member and a West Orange Chamber of Commerce board member.

But it was during her time at Health Central that she began working with Shepherd’s Hope, and it’s her involvement with Shepherd’s Hope that helped guide her to her newest role. The organization’s former president and CEO, Marni Stahlman, stepped down in December.

Shepherd’s Hope is one of Central Florida’s largest free clinics for both the underinsured and uninsured, and has served about 250,000 patients since opening on Feb. 14, 1997. The nonprofit is mainly run by volunteers and runs five clinics in Central Florida, with a new Winter Garden location set to open in June.

After encouragement from friends and family spurred her

on, Gould decided to send in her résumé and do some research.

She was part of a nationwide search involving about 300 applicants, and both her experience and desire to intertwine education and health care were the driving forces behind her passion to take on this new role.

“When I was at Health Central, I worked to support Shepherd’s Hope,” she said. “I’m a member of St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, too, so I feel like I have always been a part of their mission. Shepherd’s Hope has been in and out of my professional and personal life for the past 18 years. … The minute that I walked into the Shepherd’s Hope offices, it felt very natural. I haven’t had that weird transition anxiety that you often have. … It’s just where I’m meant to be, so it’s very natural and easy.”

TAKING THE REINS

Gould sees her new role as a calling and said there are two essential ingredients for a person’s prosperity and success: health care and education. A person has to feel well to do his or her best work, and education is important for helping to further ensure someone’s success in life.

As president and CEO of Shepherd’s Hope, Gould will support and manage the daily operations of its soon-to-be six clinics — as well as the 2,800 volunteers who operate them and the more than 19,000 patients they serve annually.

“I see our greatest opportunity here as figuring out how we can utilize technology and partner-

ships to reach more patients and support (their) care,” she said.

“What I hope to accomplish through the technology piece is exploring a telemedicine component. I’d also like to look at greater access to mental-health services. … We know there’s a shortage of those resources in Central Florida.”

Over the past few years, Shepherd’s Hope has seen an influx in the number of children in need of pediatric services. That results in the challenge for Gould of working with staff to ensure all families are served and provided with quality care.

“I want to get as many of our community members and corporate partners involved and engaged as we can to make health care seamless and provide quality of life to people we serve,” she said.

“Good health is essential for one to be successful. I am here to support our frontline leadership, staff and volunteers … a major ingredient in providing the tools and resources is trying to match community interest with our mission.”

Gould is looking forward to getting through her transition period so she can get a better idea of the organization’s next steps and the best ways to serve both her team and the community. Additionally, she is anticipating the opening of the new Winter Garden clinic and hopes to be able to increase the hours of operation.

And although the new Winter Garden clinic is funded, she said, there is still a need for financial contributions to purchase miscellaneous items to prepare the clinic and office for its summertime opening. Donations are being accepted through Shepherd’s Hope’s website, and every bit is appreciated.

“I see our greatest opportunity here as figuring out how we can utilize technology and partnerships to reach more patients and support (their) care.”

— Pam Gould

Barely a year after Goodwill Industries of Central Florida named Horizon West resident Nima Hodaei its new CEO, the search is back on.

Hodaei, 45, moved last summer from New Jersey — where he previously spent nearly two years serving as vice president of retail for Goodwill of Delaware and Delaware County — to take on the role.

Michael Hsu, chairman of Goodwill’s board of directors, said one of the board’s roles is to ensure it has the best person in place for the role. He added the matter was a change the board needed to make.

“We just had a parting of the ways,” Hsu said. “One of the things for us as a board that we are responsible for is making sure we have the right person in place to lead the organization.”

Former Goodwill board chair Laurence Hames, principal of Winter Park-based law firm Laurence C. Hames PA, has stepped in as the interim CEO. Hsu said Hames served on both the boards for Goodwill and its fundraising foundation for nine years and was chairman for two of those. Hames also is president of the board of supervisors for the Reedy Creek development district.

Goodwill’s board and search committee are now hard at work finding a permanent replacement.

“We have the search committee (going),” Hsu said. “I chaired the one that resulted in Nima’s appointment, and we have a secretary of the board chairing the current committee. … We also have an external search firm helping us, because this is a pretty important decision.”

Hsu said the search could take anywhere from four to six months, but it’s a process he and the board prefer not to rush. Currently, they are combing through applications and conducting paper, phone and on-site interviews. Hsu said the board is looking for a person who understands Goodwill’s mission and wants to be part of furthering it, as well as someone with the desire to act as a community partner.

“We’re, I think, the secondlargest not-for-profit in the Central Florida area, and that comes with a lot of responsibility in terms of being a partner in the community,” Hsu said. “We are looking for someone (who) can be a good community partner. It’s a (large) company and employs (more than) 1,100 people, so it’s a pretty big corporation and undertaking.

We’re looking for a lot of different criteria and skills.”

According to Goodwill’s 2017 IRS filing, former Goodwill CEO Bill Oakley — who spent 44 years with Goodwill and served as the CEO in Central Florida for eight years — had a base salary of $258,885. The 2018 filing, which would include Hodaei’s salary, has not been released.

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THURSDAY, MAY 9, 2019

Motherhood offers new perspective on life AMY QUESINBERRY

FIVE TIPS FOR NEW MOMS

COMMUNITY EDITOR

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wo baby gates are stretched across the entrance to the family room, but 11-monthold Keith Parker Esoff finds a small gap and makes his move. He squeezes through and laughs as he crawls across the kitchen floor, his mother close behind.

Keith Parker can stand, and he is close to walking, but he’s discovered that he really can get there faster by crawling. He’s at that age where he will grab the television remote and then look at his parents, knowing the equipment is off limits. And then he grins, and the dimple on his left cheek emerges, the single dimple just like his daddy’s.

“Motherhood is more than anything I could have ever imagined,” said Valerie Esoff, 29, who moved to the Horizon West area of Windermere with her husband, Keith, a year ago. “It has exceeded all my expectations. … It’s one of those things that you didn’t know something was missing in your heart until you became a mom.”

The birth experience was traumatic, Esoff said, but when Keith Parker was born at Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies May 21, 2018, and placed in her arms, “Everything was absolutely worth it. I would go through it a million times just to have the same result, for sure.”

Keith Parker was named for his father and deceased paternal grandfather, who also share the same first name.

“When he was born, he was the spitting image of my husband,” Esoff said. “They looked identical.

Now … my husband looks at him and says, ‘He looks just like you.’

He’s a good mix.”

Esoff said the best thing about motherhood is experiencing this deep love for her baby and discovering another perspective on life.

The former occupational therapist for military veterans in Lake Nona has transitioned to be a stay-athome mother and knows she is blessed to be able to experience

Here are five tips for new moms, from a new mom.

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2 Keith Parker enjoys spending time outdoors with his mother, Valerie Esoff.

Keith was born May 21, 2018.

every moment with him.

“One of my favorite moments with him is being there when he wakes up from a nap or in the morning and the way he looks at me when I say good morning,” she said. “That’s wonderful. I think my other thing that I really enjoy doing with him is being able to breastfeed him. That’s really good bonding with him.”

Their daily routine is on a simple schedule. They wake up, greet the two dogs, eat breakfast and then go outside before naptime.

“I grew up in the country, and I saw something new every day,” she said, adding that she hopes to pass along that passion for nature to Keith Parker. “He has had early exposure to animals and loves the family dogs.

“He has replaced ‘mama’ with ‘dog,’ so now he only says, ‘dada’ and ‘dog,’” Esoff said. “I’m hoping that will change by Mother’s Day.” Naps are what make life go round for Keith Parker.

“I feel like it’s very important for him to get his naps in,” she said.

“For him to just overall be a happy, healthy baby. If that means passing up something to go do, that’s just how it is. But it’s OK. I know

that he needs his sleep.”

Motherhood and being a stayat-home mom isn’t glamorous, she said, but she embraces the opportunities the title of “Mom” brings.

“I feel like I’m a calmer person,” Esoff said. “Not that I was uncalm before, but that everything is how it’s supposed to be. You don’t worry about little things anymore. You worry about your kid, but that’s really it. Everything else just kind of takes a step back in regard to things to worry about.”

Esoff and her husband have embraced the website Kellymom. com. Esoff’s background is in health, so research- and education-based websites are important to her. She is enjoying her time off work but said she would like to return to the workforce part-time to keep up her skills.

“I love what I do and loved working with veterans, and I would definitely like to go back,” she said.

“I feel like the best moment will present itself.”

Until that time, Esoff is content being a daily presence in her son’s life so she doesn’t miss a moment.

“Just this week, he’s starting mimicking more,” Esoff said. “I’ve

Surround yourself with a network of other moms or new moms, because being a mom can sometimes feel a little isolating. Surrounding yourself with a network and people to seek advice from is really important.

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Finding time for selfcare is really important.

It’s OK to go against the norm. You don’t always have to follow the books or the websites to a T. It’s OK to hold your baby for a nap; it’s OK to nurture your baby to sleep; it’s OK to hold your baby all the time. Do what, in your heart, you feel is best for you and your baby.

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If you are breastfeeding, don’t be afraid to find a lactation consultant. … They are life-saving and a really good tool in your toolbox.

been just drilling him, ‘Mama, mama, mama’ — and he just smiled at me and said, ‘Dada.’”

This just makes her laugh.

“You appreciate life more because you’re in every single moment and you appreciate every single moment, from when he was crawling to saying mama to just giggling for the first time — you just appreciate everything,” Esoff said.

County details DP developments CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

central (section), which is kind of the Sand Lake Road area south of Sand Lake, and then the south section, which is probably the busiest area in Dr. Phillips that we’re seeing right now.”

DEVELOPMENTS

To the north, Raasch discussed only one development project: the CERTUS Senior Living community. The project has been approved by the county and will bring a 64-bed, assisted-living facility along Conroy-Windermere Road just west of Hiawassee Road. The project has not yet broken ground.

In the central section of Dr. Phillips, Raasch discussed several more development projects. One of those projects was the Granada Planned Development, which originally was approved in 1972.

That project, divided into three lots, is entitled to the development of 183 single-family units on Granada Lot A, 394 multi-family units on Granada Lot B and a 185 unit active-adult community on

Granada Lot C. “It just never came out of the ground,” Raasch said, referring to the Granada PD. “The property owner landbanked them. The entitlements were changed back in 2006 to allow for some multifamily (units).”

Raasch also discussed a project in the central section of Dr. Phillips called the National Spa property, also known as the former Yogi Bear campground. That project — located just west of I-4 and bordered by Big Sand Lake to the east — was approved in 2018 and is entitled to 134,000 square feet of commercial, a 120-room hotel and 286 multi-family units.

The majority of the development in Dr. Phillips is taking place in the southern section, because it has the most undeveloped land in the area, Raasch said.

Two of the largest development projects proposed for the southern area of Dr. Phillips are known as the Kerina Parkside Parkside PD and the Hannah Smith PD, also known as the “O-Town West” project. Both projects will be headed to the Board of County

Commissioners June 4. Commissioners will be considering the approval of comprehensive-plan amendments for both projects.

The O-Town West project is proposed on an 84.32-acre parcel located south of Fenton Street, north of Interstate 4, and east of Lake Ruby. The development proposes up to 1,800 dwelling units and up to 415,142 square feet of commercial space. The Kerina Parkside PD is proposed on a 215.67-acre property located east and west of South ApopkaVineland Road, south of Buena Vista Woods Boulevard and north of Lake Street. That project proposes 400 multi-family units, 301 single-family attached and detached units, 200 senior-living units, 150,000 square feet of retail and a five-acre park.

SCHOOLS

Lauren Roth, of Orange County Public School Facilities Planning, gave a presentation about new schools planned for the area.

She said a new elementary school that will be relieving Sand Lake Elementary will be opening this

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

Friedrich Hayek

“Road to Serfdom,” 1944 Publisher / Matt Walsh, mwalsh@YourObserver.com

It’s OK to feel like you don’t know what you’re doing. (With) the transitions and different phases, you always feel like you don’t know, but that’s OK; you’ll figure it out.

Amy Quesinberry

Observer

fall. That school was named Castleview Elementary and will be located at 9131 Taborfield Ave. “We’re opening three brandnew schools (this year),” Roth said. “All of them, actually, are relatively close to here. They’re all in Horizon West.”

In addition to the relief elementary school, a relief middle school and high school also are planned for the area. The high school, site 80-H-SW-4, will be opening in 2021 and will relieve Dr. Phillips High and Freedom High. The relief high school for the Dr. Phillips area is one of two schools that were moved up to open a year early.

“The (School) Board has already agreed to move up two high schools by an additional year from 2022 … to 2021,” Roth said. “We’re actually building two new high schools a year sooner, because the need is so great. That is how fast students are moving to this area.”

The relief middle school, known as site 48-M-SW-4, is scheduled to open in 2026, according to the OCPS capital project list for 20182019.

Executive Editor / Michael Eng, meng@OrangeObserver.com Design Editor / Jessica Eng, jeng@OrangeObserver.com Community Editor / Amy Quesinberry, amyq@OrangeObserver.com News Editor / Gabby Baquero, gbaquero@OrangeObserver.com Sports Editor / Troy Herring, therring@OrangeObserver.com Black Tie Editor / Danielle Hendrix, dhendrix@OrangeObserver.com Staff Writer / Eric Gutierrez, egutierrez@OrangeObserver.com Advertising Executive Cyndi Gustafson, advertising@OrangeObserver.com Multimedia Advertising Executives / Ann Carpenter, acarpenter@OrangeObserver.com Terri Hope, thope@OrangeObserver.com Advertising Operations Manager / Allison Brunelle, abrunelle@OrangeObserver.com Creative Services / Tony Trotti, ttrotti@orangeobserver.com

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THURSDAY, MAY 9, 2019

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We Are

County requests public feedback for Horizon West Regional Park GABBY BAQUERO

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NOW OPEN!

LEARN MORE

Orange County leaders are looking for community input concerning their intention to build several amenities within the county’s future 215-acre Horizon West Regional Park.

The county is currently undergoing the 12-month process, which it started in March, to develop a master plan that will guide both the immediate and long-term phased development of the park. It held its first community meeting about the park May 1 at Bridgewater Middle School.

Matt Suedmeyer, manager of Orange County’s Parks and Recreations Division, informed the 150 to 200 attendees of the park’s history, detailed the required multi-step process to develop the master plan for the park’s eventual design, and shared that the county has been looking at similar-sized parks around the state and country for ideas.

Meeting attendees then were invited to share concerns and/or ask questions about the process. They also were encouraged participate in several stations set up to solicit ideas for park amenities, rate their preferences for which amenities should be prioritized and complete an online survey.

“I want to make sure that people are thinking big,” Orange County District 1 Commissioner Betsy VanderLey said. “I’m hoping they are thinking more regional, and more than just a pool, park and swimming pool. So make sure you let us know what you want and give us your input.”

Several residents noted worries

To view the project website, visit HorizonWest RegionalPark.org. To see the slideshow presentation displayed at the first community meeting, visit bit.ly/2LFFyFZ. Anyone wishing to participate in the 11-question online publicengagement survey, which will be available until June 21, may do so by visiting horizonwestregionalpark.org/4309.

about parking, law enforcement regarding park hours and illicit activities, excessive noise and traffic.

“The concept is a great idea, but I think what they need to make sure they’re doing is addressing the key concerns that we have around traffic and safety,” Horizon West resident Jen Anderson said.

VanderLey agreed and said the county recognizes improvements to Tiny Road are necessary. However, she emphasized the project is still in its early planning stages.

County officials also said the planning team will be launching focus groups on topics such as adult sports, youth sports, seniors, bicyclists and pedestrians, sustainability, cultural/ public art, HOAs and civic organizations.

The next community meeting will be held Nov. 13, and a third community meeting presenting the final plans will take place Feb. 12, 2020. Prior to the second meeting, the county will publish a draft of the master plan for the community’s review.

Taste of HarborChase Wednesdays in May | 1:00pm to 3:00pm

Are you curious about life at HarborChase of Dr. Phillips?

Join us every Wednesday in May for a Taste of HarborChase! Meet us at the pool for a variety of chefprepared hors d’oeuvres.

Get to know our residents, meet our amazing team and take an exclusive tour It’s the perfect opportunity to experience the lifestyle of HarborChase!

RSVP today for a chance to win a gift basket!

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THURSDAY, MAY 9, 2019

State bill would make texting while driving a primary offense

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A bill that would make texting while driving a primary offense is one signature away from becoming Florida law.

Both chambers of the state Legislature have voted overwhelmingly in favor of bills that address distracted driving. The Senate voted April 25 to approve Senate Bill 76, which passed with a 33-5 vote. Days later, on April 29, the House of Representatives voted to approve House Bill 107 with a 1087 vote. HB 107 was co-sponsored

by Reps. Jackie Toledo and Emily Slosberg.

“It’s … smart to start that legislation (against texting while driving),” said Windermere Police Chief David Ogden. “A lot of other states, (you) completely cannot speak on the phone (while driving) or text and drive, so I think we’re incrementally taking steps toward that.”

Although texting while driving is already illegal in Florida, it’s only a secondary offense. That means an officer can only ticket someone for texting while driving if the person has been pulled over for something else, such as speeding or running a stoplight. If approved, the new law would make texting while driving a primary offense, meaning an officer would be able to pull someone over and give them a citation for texting while driving alone.

Ogden said although texting while driving already is illegal, it can be difficult to prove whether someone is texting while driving, especially because people on the roads using their phones has become such a common sight. “(One) of the problems (is) it’s very difficult to figure out who’s texting and who’s not texting,” Ogden said. “We see everybody (on their phones). I can tell you — anecdotally at least — when our officers stop vehicles for speeding and different kinds of things like that — hands down, I would say in the 90 percentile range — people are on their phones. Whether it can be proved that they’re texting and driving is going to be another story, but everybody uses their phone for everything, and they also do it while they’re driving.”

Those in violation would be

issued a $30 fine on first offense, and the fine doubles to $60 on second offense. Those fines don’t include any court costs or additional fees. If approved, the new law would take effect July 1; however, officers won’t be issuing citations until Jan. 1, 2020. Beginning Oct. 1, officers only will be giving out verbal or written warnings to those who violate the new law.

In addition to making texting while driving a primary offense, the bill also places restrictions on operating a cell phone while driving through a school zone or construction zone. The bill makes school and construction zones “hands-free” areas, meaning it would be illegal to hold your phone while driving through these areas.

A person would be permitted to talk on their phone while driving through these areas if they are doing so in a hands-free manner, such as talking via a speaker phone.

The bill does not affect talking on the phone while driving in areas outside of school or construction zones. Additionally, individuals who are operating a phone while driving but for reasons such as navigation, to report a crime or to receive safety-related information, would not be in violation.

“It’s a smart way to kind of move forward,” Ogden said. “Many of the other states have completely just banned speaking on your phone or using your phone while you’re driving. I don’t think they wanted to fully go to that measure, but I think it’s a smart (piece) of legislation by at least pulling out the school zones and the construction zones to make sure (they’re handsfree) because those are two areas that are important to all of our community — (that) being kids and workers on the side of the road.”

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THURSDAY, MAY 9, 2019

Rotary throws Cinco de Mayo bash L aughter and screeches of joy from children playing on inflatable slides and bounce houses accompanied music played

by The Down Brothers Band Saturday, May 4, during the Rotary Club of Windermere’s Cinco de Mayo celebration.

Although some rain passed through the area at the start of the event, it didn’t put a damper on the fun. Offerings included bounce houses and inflatables, face painting, live music and food trucks.

Members of the Rotary Club of Windermere and Olympia High’s Interact Club manned the registration tent.

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THURSDAY, MAY 9, 2019

May the horse be with you

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aubles, horse figurines, ribbons and sparkles adorned many of the Kentucky Derby-style hats worn by attendees during the West Orange Junior Service League’s Run for the Roses event. The Kentucky Derby celebration, held Saturday, May 4, at the Pines of Windermere, is a community favorite. Hundreds in attendance enjoyed a catered meal, open bar, casino-style gaming, silent auction, best-dressed contests and a live showing of the 145th annual Kentucky Derby.

— DANIELLE HENDRIX

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Orlando Ballet celebrates artistic director’s 10th in DP

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Paul Bryan, Bach Festival Society of Winter Park Executive Director Betsy Gwinn, Orlando Ballet Artistic Director Robert Hill and Dana Thomas

rlando Ballet staff, performers and patrons celebrated the 10-year anniversary of Artistic Director Robert Hill Thursday, April 18. The anniversary reception had Orlando Ballet supporters recognizing Hill’s decade with the Orlando Ballet at Dr. Phillips Charities before sitting down for a special ballet performance.

— HARRY SAYER

Above: Orlando Ballet Board of Directors President Jonathan Ledden, Traci Madera and David Withee Left: Orlando Ballet performers met guests at the entrance.

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THURSDAY, MAY 9, 2019

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— HARRY SAYER

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THURSDAY, MAY 9, 2019

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BENJAMIN SUAZO DIED SUNDAY, APRIL 28, 2019.

Benjamin Suazo, 84, passed away on Sunday, April 28, 2019, at Dr. Phillips Hospital, Orlando, Florida. Ben was born in Santurce, Puerto Rico, one of four children to Salvador and Emma Suazo.

He grew up in New York City and at a young age enlisted in the U.S. Air Force, stationed at Pine Castle Air Base. Near the end of his enlistment in 1957, he fell in love with and married Betty Suazo, his wife of 62 years.

Ben and Betty had two children together.

Ben was employed for 42 years

by Miller Bearings of Orlando and enjoyed a long and successful career in sales management. He was a born-again Christian and a member of Calvary Orlando in Winter Park, Florida.

Proudly serving West Orange County for over 36 years.

Upon retirement, he enjoyed traveling with Betty in their motorhome as members of the RV Maps Ministry. When not traveling, Ben was an active member of Calvary, participating in men’s ministries and enjoying many years as an usher.

He loved his family and was a committed and devoted husband and father. A friend and mentor to many, Ben was a caring person and spent many hours participat-

ing in civic and Christian activities.

Ben was preceded in death by his brother, William Suazo, and sister, Gladys Buskirk Weeks.

He is survived by his wife, Betty; and two children, Craig Suazo (Janet) and Karen Suazo; and his brother, Robert Suazo. He is also survived by two grandsons, Peter Suazo and Benjamin Johnson.

A memorial service will be held at Calvary Orlando, 1199 Clay St., Winter Park, at 11 a.m. Friday, May 10, 2019. Arrangements entrusted to the care of National Cremation and Burial Society, 7565 Red Bug Lake Road, Oviedo.

As an expression of sympathy, memorial contributions may be sent to Mission America Placement Services (MAPS), 1445 Boonville Ave., Springfield, MO 65802; or Calvary Orlando, 1199 Clay St., Winter Park, FL 32789.

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MAY 9, 2019

HIGH

SPORTS

Windermere Prep’s Chris Fetters finished 12th overall in the 800m at the FHSAA state track meet. Page 12.

1

5

The First Academy boys track team absolutely dominated in the Class 1A FHSAA state meet on Friday, May 3. Led by Alex Shields — who took home first place in the 110m hurdles (14.27) and 300m hurdles (38.78) — the Royals found success at every level. Other top finishers for the Royals includes: Lake Ellis (second place in the triple jump, 46-8.75); first in the 4x100m relay (Taylor, Edwards, Black, Ellis; 41.88); second in the 4x400m relay (3:24.64); Caleb Henry (third in the long jump, 22-2.5).

2

At the Class 4A FHSAA state meet in Jacksonville on Saturday, May 4, the Windermere girls track team stepped up their game as the Wolverines finished tied for fourth overall. The Wolverines were led by Amaya Ugarte, whose first -place finish in the triple jump (38-11) was the firstever gold medal in track in the school’s history.

3

It was a big night for multiple Panthers in Dr. Phillips softball’s 16-1 win over Lake Nona on Thursday, May 2. Kati Kelly would go 3-for-4 with two RBI, while Tiare Kong went 3-for-5 with an RBI. On the mound Raychel Trocki would toss a complete game — striking out 10, while only giving up three hits. Trocki would also add some offense by going 2-for-3 with two RBI.

4

In Dr. Phillips baseball’s 8-3 win over Winter Park on Wednesday, May 1, CJ Cantwell went 2-for-5 with three RBI and scored a run, while Brandon Fields would of 3-for-4 with an RBI on the night. The win capped off the regular season for the Panthers (18-6), with the district tournament happening this week.

Troy Herring

BEST OF THE BEST Olympia’s Luke Carey is having the year of his life in the pool for the water polo team and recently was named OCPS Male Athlete of the Year.

TROY HERRING SPORTS EDITOR

W

orking their way through the usual drills, members of the Olympia boys water polo team get in their reps.

It’s humid and warm inside the Rosen YMCA Aquatic Center on I-Drive, but the water is just fine, and things feel as they should. In other words, it’s another tough practice led by head coach Stephanie Johnson Possell.

Then a break is called as Johnson Possell gets the team together in the center of the pool for a big announcement: Senior Luke Carey had just been named OCPS Male Athlete of the Year.

“I was shocked, because I know there are so many incredible athletes throughout the county,” Carey said. “And at first, I thought it was just water polo throughout the county, but when she said it was all sports, I thought it was

SEE CAREY PAGE 12

Run the World

5

In Windermere Prep’s 11-1 thrashing of Faith Christian on the softball diamond on Tuesday, April 20, a trio of Lakers had a solid night.

Julie Reeth would go 4-for4 with three RBI, while Lexi King went 2-for-3 with two RBI at the plate and pitched five innings with five strikeouts. Maxi Graefe would also go 2-for-3 with an RBI herself. The win pushed the Lakers to 13-4 on the season.

crazy. There are baseball players and football players going D1 — to SEC schools — and I didn’t compare.”

Coming into his final year at Olympia, he knew the expectations would be high — for him and the team — but he didn’t know an award like that would come his way, despite how well the squad has done this season.

A year after winning the state title, the Titans had a target on their backs, and despite getting their best shots in, only one team has managed to best Olympia. That team was Gulliver Prep, which took an 9-8 overtime win in the Ian Supra Tournament in early March that broke the Titans’ 16-game win streak.

“The team was devastated … we were distraught,” Carey said.

“That lit a fire in us in the pool — we’ve been a lot more focused than we were at the beginning of

Lelia Higgins may be the branch manager at Windermere Library during the day, but during her vacation time, she runs marathons around the world.

TROY HERRING SPORTS EDITOR

Troy Herring

Lelia Higgins has a passion for running that has led her from Boston to Japan.

In early March, Lelia Higgins found herself on the other side of the world — standing in the mass of humanity waiting for the start of the Tokyo Marathon.

The day before had been perfect — sunny and in the 50s — but race day was a different story.

“I had to be there two hours before the race in the corral, and during that time, it was raining, so I was soaked to the bone before I could even start the race,” Higgins said. “It was cold, and we were wet, and that in itself was different. Most races corral you, but not for that length of time, so it was strange.”

SEE HIGGINS PAGE 13

12

SPORTS SPOTLIGHT

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THURSDAY, MAY 9, 2019

SPONSORED BY SHANNON TILL STATE FARM IN FOWLER GROVES

Chris Fetters Despite running track this season for the first time as a junior, Chris Fetters is an all-around athlete and his talents took him to the FHSAA state track meet where he finished 12th overall in the 800m.

But with the season now over, he’s looking to enjoy some time with friends and maybe get in some sessions of Fortnite.

You just started running track this year as a junior.

How did you get interested in the sport?

Back in January, I was getting ready for the baseball season, and I was having some pain in my elbow. Got it checked out and found out that if I were to keep throwing, I could tear my UCL and break off a part of my elbow — so I shut down that. I heard I was able to run, so I decided to just do track to stay in shape — that was my main goal. I actually loved it and found out I had a passion for it.

What is it about running you enjoy?

First off, honestly, being out there with my teammates and coaches — that made it fun. And I don’t know, the thing about the sport is it’s not always about winning and losing; it’s about where you can always better yourself each race.

Going from baseball to track, what were those first track practices like for you?

I realized I was sore a lot

THE BASICS SCHOOL: Windermere Prep YEAR: Junior AGE: 17 TEAM: Track EVENTS: 800m, 4x400m

more; I started to get shin splints, my quads were always sore — I had to take ice baths and had to do extra stretching. My legs were pretty sore for the first two to three weeks. With baseball, my legs were not usually sore, and I was tired, but then the next day I’d feel great. But with track, after a meet or practice, your body felt it. You have to recover with good food, always drink water and proper stretching.

This year alone, Carey has broken the single-season goal record and won OCPS Male Athlete of the Year.

Troy Herring

Carey shines in the pool

How did you land in the events that you run?

So I started off running the 400m — that’s how the coaches saw me — and they also put me in the 4x400m.

My coaches could see I was a 800m guy, because toward the end of the season, they put me in one, and I ran it pretty well. Honestly, it was just coaches putting me into a race, which they saw, and I was able to perform.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 11

the year, from our starters all the way to all of our bench players I’ve seen a change that needed to happen.”

That lone blip of failure is the only tarnish on an otherwise incredible 26-1 season so far for the Titans, and for Carey it’s been one of equal success. On the stat sheet alone, he leads the team in goals, assists, steals and shot blocks, and this season, he became the record-holder for goals in a season. The 118th goal came in April, though he hasn’t stopped there — right now, he has more than 140 goals.

Carey’s record-setting abilities in the pool are impressive enough, but add in the fact that he’s only been playing since just before high school, and it makes the accomplishments even more amazing.

“I played like, football, baseball, basketball and soccer — I played it all — and then my mom took me to a game in eighth grade to watch Olympia, and I told my mom, ‘I can’t do that,’” Carey said. “I can swim, but four quarters treading water — swimming up and down — that’s a no-go.”

Carey isn’t alone in being introduced to the sport late, Johnson Possell said — almost every athlete comes into the sport having never played before.

In your first year, what was the highlight moment for you?

Probably anywhere being with my teammates and coaches — they always made it enjoyable honestly. There wasn’t any days where I was like, ‘Well this sucks, I don’t like this.’ It was honestly one of the best seasons of my life.

What was it like to qualify for states?

It was pretty surprising, because a lot of the kids out there are cross-country runners who have been running for over a year.

Family.

Family.

Friends.

Friends.

Community.

Community.

— TROY HERRING

Athlete of the Week Sponsored by...

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

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Puzzle One Solution: “Teaching should be such that what is offered is perceived as a valuable gift and not as a hard duty.”

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Puzzle Two Solution: “I only do one thing at a time; otherwise, I get confused and then I can’t trick you.”

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“It’s always fun watching all will take on St. Thomas Aquinas athletes develop in water polo, (22-4) — which Olympia beat because they come in as fresh- twice this season — in the semis. man, and they have no experi- If they win, they more than likely ence whatsoever,” Johnson Pos- will get another shot at Gulliver sell said. “So it’s very rewarding Prep. to watch all athletes grow. When With the Titans’ last game — a you have an athlete who has regional final win over Seminole some skill from other sports and — taking place Friday, April 26, it puts it together with their swim- will have been two weeks since ming ability, it’s magic. Luke is a they have seen any action. competitor — he plays com-Celebrity “It’s been tough, ” Carey said.

This and week’s Cipher answers petes at everything he does. ” Solution: “That’s been one of our main Puzzle One Luckily for Carey and the othnotwhat being “Teaching shouldconcerns be such — that is able to ers, they have Johnson Possell to playas at aa valuable high levelgift until then. offered is perceived lead the way and help reach and them not as a hardWe’ve duty.”just been practicing their true potential. It’s been her against each other really hard, – Albert Einstein guidance that has really helped and that’s one of the things we Two Solution: push him to beingPuzzle one of the best haven’t been doing all year.”

“I only do one at aweekend’s time; otherwise, players in the state, Carey said. thingThis match(es) will I get I can’t trick in his legThroughout his life in confused sports, no and be then the last for Carey you.” one coaches quite like Johnson endary high-school career, but Possell. future Judy University of Florida –the (Judge) Sheindlin “Just being able to hop into a Gator — who plans on trying out sport, and be able toThis learnweek’s and for the clubanswers water polo team — Sudoku grow so quickly with a coach is already thinking of what kind that knows so much about the of legacy he hopes to leave at game and is willing to push you Olympia High. really hard... that is one of the “I want people to rememreasons why we are so success- ber me as a guy who came in ful,” Carey said. “I’ve played a lot and busted his butt, and came of sports, and this is the coach from nothing and became the that has pushed me the hardest best,” Carey said. “We’re trying out of any of them.” to show the freshmen that you Although there is a lot to cel- have to do the work to be the best ebrate right now, the biggest — it doesn’t just happen. I want task for Carey and the Titans people to remember me as the lies ahead in the FHSAA state guy who was completely domisemifinals this weekend in Boca nant in his sport — I think that Raton. would be a pretty cool legacy to On Friday, May 10, the Titans leave.”

Shannon Till, Agent Shannon Till, Agent We’re all in this together.

Fowler Groves 3279 Daniels Road Fowler’s Grove 3279• Daniels Rd State Farm® has a long tradition Winter Garden, 34787 Winter Garden, FL FL 34787 Toll TollFree: Free: 855-742-1591 855-742-1591 of being there. That’s one reason www.shannontill.com www.shannontill.com Hablamos Español

why I’m proud to support West 1211007 State Farm, Bloomington, IL Orange county..

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©2019 NEA, Inc.

This week’s Crossword answers

2019

OBSERVER

Higgins runs Tokyo Marathon CONTINUED FROM PAGE 11

Not only was she freezing and wet, but also the jet lag from flying in a few days earlier still lingered. When you throw in the whole aspect of being a stranger in a strange land — where few spoke English — it was a lot to take in before running a 26.1-mile race.

Nevertheless, she persisted; even if it did take a full 20 minutes for her corral to get past the starting line of the race. That’s what happens when you have 30,000 to 40,000 runners competing in a race.

Over the next six hours and 17 minutes, Higgins made her way around the winding track, fighting strong headwinds and cold, miserable weather. For a native of Jamaica and a Florida resident of 30 years, this was unfamiliar territory.

But she had prepared for the race, knowing where to eat, where to drink and where to use the restroom if she needed — all while facing the cutoff times she had to meet if she wanted to finish the race.

“The race was relatively flat, and they were very strict if you didn’t meet certain cutoff points — they’d take you off the course,” Higgins said. “Your race ends if you don’t get across that cutoff point. About 1,000 people got caught, because they either stopped to take pictures or took a potty break.”

By the time she had made it through all the checkpoints and crossed the finish line, Higgins was dealing with hypothermia

and was given warm tea and care.

Then, Higgins enjoyed a nice little vacation with her husband — taking in sites such as Mt. Fuji — while celebrating her completion of the Abbot World Major Marathons.

The Abbot World Major Marathons comprises the world’s six biggest marathons — Boston, New York, Berlin, Chicago, London and Tokyo — which Higgins completed before she knew it existed.

“It was not on my radar,” Higgins said. “It came about long after I started to run, and by that point, I had finished the Chicago (2006), New York (2010) and Berlin (2007) marathons. When I did Boston (in 2016), someone mentioned about the world-marathon majors and I said, ‘Huh, I’ve done three and there are six of them — maybe I should try for the Six Star.’”

So all that was left for Higgins to conquer the Abbot World Major Marathons were the London and Tokyo marathons.

The London Marathon is one of the hardest races to get into, because despite there being 50,000 who compete, only 1,000 Americans are accepted. Higgins managed to get in by running for a charity.

“I got into London and I said, ‘OK, I’m nearly done — one left, here I come; do or die,’” Higgins said.

Higgins capped off the challenge this year with her run in Tokyo. And to think: This whole journey simply started with Higgins wanting to get healthy.

A WAY OF LIFE

Back in 2004, when her daughter was graduating high school, Higgins went shopping and noticed she had gained a couple of pounds.

From there, she decided to make the lifestyle change.

“I started walking, and in nine months I dropped 40 pounds just by walking three miles a day,” Higgins said. “After a while, you get bored with just walking, and there was a running group in Orlando, and I started running 5Ks, 10Ks and half marathons. The problem for me is it takes me a mile or two to warm up … so the 5Ks weren’t working for me.”

And just like that, the longtime Orange County Library System employee — and current Windermere Branch Library manager — started running marathons.

Since that start in 2004, Higgins has run 44 marathons and many other half marathons, 5Ks and 10Ks, and there doesn’t seem to be any stop for her.

But where does she go from here? Higgins is currently on a quest to run a marathon in all 50 states — she already has 39 — while also running on every continent. It’s the drive of a person who doesn’t know the word “quit.”

“I hope it will take me to my grave — I hope so,” Higgins said with a chuckle. “For me, it’s a way of life. When I dropped the weight when I started running, it dawned on me that this is all we have. I try to be healthy, and for me running is the way to do it.”

|

THURSDAY, MAY 9, 2019

13

GAME FILM

OrangeObserver.com

Palmer Bittick came late to record the save for the Wolverines.

Windermere rallies to 6-4 win over West Orange on Senior Day

R

ain couldn’t stop Senior Day at Windermere High, as the Wolverines took a 6-4 win over rival West Orange Wednesday, May 1.

The Wolverines (20-4, 11-0) opened the scoring with two runs in the bottom of the first on a passed ball and fielder’s choice, before the Warriors (13-10, 4-2) responded with two runs of their own two innings later to tie it at 2-2.

From there, it was a back-and-forth brawl between the two rivals, before the Warriors pulled ahead 4-3 on an RBI single from Ricky Reeth. The lead wouldn’t last long. The Wolverines hit pay dirt with an RBI single from Tyler Ostendorf and a two-RBI double by Dayton Romig to put the home side up 6-4 in the bottom of the sixth.

— TROY HERRING

69 Annual Memorial Day Celebration th

WOODLAWN MEMORIAL PARK CEREMONY Veteran organizations, Scouts, rifle volley, Taps, the tolling of the replica Liberty Bell in memory of the dead of all wars, and a possible fly-over.

Monday, May 27, 2019 MEMORIAL 10 DAYa.m.

IS ONLY ONCE A YEAR

but our gratitude is endless.

Mosaic at Woodlawn Memorial Park in front of the

400 Woodlawn Cemetery Rd., Gotha, 34734 (southwest Orange County.)

American Flags will be available for Memorial Day Grave Decoration.

Info: 407-293-1361

but our gratitude is endless

305420-1

Memorial Day Is Only Once A Year

|

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, MAY 9, 2019

THESE OLD TIMES

FROM THE WINTER GARDEN HERITAGE FOUNDATION

THROWBACK THURSDAY MAY 8, 1975 Most people like to shower their mothers with love on their annual holiday. In the Mother’s Day issue of The Winter Garden Times on May 8, 1975, many businesses advertised their specials for Mom, urging readers to buy their merchandise, flowers or services.

75 years ago

Stamps Nos. 30 and 31 in Ration Book Four will be good for five pounds of sugar indefinitely. Stamp No. 40 is good for five pounds of canning sugar through Feb. 28, 1945.

50 years ago

From Barbs & Bouquets by Don: We approve the Winter Garden City Commission’s action on the closing of bars at midnight. Surely, if you are not intoxicated by that time, another two hours isn’t going to help much. We are not against taverns and other sauce-dispensing night spots but feel they should be operated in a refined manner and not be a nuisance to the police and general public.

25 years ago

The Orange County Parks and Recreation Department reports that construction is on schedule for the first phase of the West Orange Trail. The Winter Garden City Commission has voted to close the center of the Boyd Street intersection at Plant Street to allow the trail to continue through town from the Lake-Orange line to Apopka.

The Kentucky Derby favorite has a local connection. Kim Bochiardy Heath and Bonnie M. Heath III are managers of

FROM THE ARCHIVES These two round, wooden crate lids were manufactured for A.W. Hurley, of Tildenville, the citrus-growing community west of and now included within the Winter Garden city limits. The Hurley family farmed extensive vegetable fields and citrus groves in West Orange County.

These were stored in the rafters of a barn belonging to the family. It is in two layers and may have been “keyed” into the top of a round shipping container. They are imprinted with the Hurley “Chief Apopka” citrus brand image.

The Winter Garden Heritage

Foundation preserves, in its archive, a large collection of artifacts representing West Orange County’s citrus history, an invaluable resource for historians, authors and newcomers to the area. Call (407) 656-3244 to make a research appointment.

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

Bonnie Heath Farm in Ocala, the home of Holy Bull, an early favorite in the derby. Kim is the daughter of Barbara and the late Howard Bochiardy, of Gotha, and a 1974 graduate of Lakeview High School.

PERSONALITIES by Peter A. Collins; CROSSWORD SPLIT Edited by David Steinberg

10 years ago

Family members of the late Grady Braddock joined Winter Garden Mayor John Rees and city commissioners to cut the

101 Formerly, old-style 102 Optimistic 103 Mailer of many manuscripts?

107 Dinnertime directive 108 Commemorative poem 109 Big, like a paycheck 110 Farm measure 111 Negative particle 113 Backward: “This American Life” host/Forward: “All Things Considered” host 118 “Hair” part?

119 Cathedral part 120 Bottled-up being 121 “Count on me!”

122 Midterms, e.g.

123 Last Ivy alphabetically 124 Correct 125 Recipe amts.

ribbon on the city park named for the former Orange County sheriff’s deputy. Braddock died in a car crash in 1998 at the intersection next to the new park.

43 Crew needs 44 Muffin option 48 “Livin’ La Vida ___” 49 Fill a tank 51 Volleyball hit after a bump 52 Free app annoyances 54 Shakes off slumber 55 Hide-hair connector 57 Tolerate 61 French fashion house 64 Makes sum mistakes?

66 Campaign slinger’s stuff 68 Consistently bright, weather-wise 69 A long time 70 Cash dispenser, briefly 71 Comic Margaret 72 Either Johnson’s time in the White House 74 Wipe out 76 Skedaddles DOWN 78 Constellation part 1 Meet events 79 Sioux City’s state 2 Tequila basis 81 Eponymous root beer 3 Muggy maker 4 Ruffians 82 Squared (up) 5 Acts the prankster 84 Sacred Hindu writing 6 Shiny fabric 85 Hunky-dory 7 “___ questions?”

86 Shrimp trapper 8 Toddler’s time out?

89 “It seems to me ...”

9 H.S. science class com93 Lilac or lavender ponents 94 News clip 10 Roald who wrote “The BFG” 11 Browser bookmark, briefly 95 Campground cooking site 96 N.Y. Mets’ division 12 Director Spike 97 Subtle aspect 13 Generosity 98 Rocky peak 14 ___ card (queen or king) ©2019 Universal Uclick 99 “Downton Abbey” count15 Oberhausen outburst16 Spirit” playwright/Forward: 83 Backward: Songwriter Headed up ess ACROSS Hot condiment for Elvis/Forward: Panthers “Exodus” author 32 Passover meals 104 Badly injures 1 Chicago mayor Emanuel 17 Holy city? quarterback 56 Made an outline 33 Reach across 105 “Get ___!” (“Compose 5 Fallback strategy 18 Saturated 35 Visa competitor, for short 58 Between-meals noshes 87 Old TV’s “The ___ Squad” yourself!”)

10 Like dishwater 24 Extremely dry 59 Soccer ___ 37 Helper on the Hill 88 Flies 106 Bright colors 14 They may be fudged 25 “Giant” writer Ferber 60 Bawl 38 Backward: “Damn 90 Potholes’ places 108 Bills in many tips 19 What flows in a rio 30 Surviving Yankees” star/Forward: Old 62 “We totally should!”

91 Render speechless 109 Run for it 20 Hawaiian porch 33 “Little” girl in an Everly 63 Casey with countdowns, 92 Disposed of securely, as West lawman 110 Z ___ zebra 21 Bay or gray follower Brothers song once 42 Sticks up papers 112 Mich.’s Canadian 22 Allergic outburst 34 Wunderkind 65 Tach reading 45 Reacts to yeast 94 Hindu mendicant neighbor 23 Backward: ’50s Peruvian 35 Prized violins 95 You may rush to get 46 2003 Christmas comedy 67 Twangy 114 Relaxation location singer/Forward: “Parks and 36 Capital of Wisconsin 70 Summit into one 47 Corn unit Recreation” star 37 Good name for a painter 115 Digital communication 73 Pen point 96 Backward: “Benny and 48 Use, as a hammock method? (Abbr.)

26 Kid 39 “Airplane!” star Leslie 75 Astronaut Grissom Joon” actor/Forward: 49 Willing to wait 116 Sleep stage letters 27 Malevolent glare 40 Type of ski lift 77 Bela of “Dracula” Perfect 10 gymnast 50 Forever stamp letters 117 Serpent’s tail?

28 “Bad” cholesterol letters 41 ___’acte (interlude) 80 Pyramus’ love 100 Elegance 53 Backward: “Blithe 29 “Gosh!”31 42 Cherry Starburst color

CELEBRITY CIPHER

By Luis Campos Celebrity Cipher cryptograms are created from quotations by famous people, past and present.

Each letter in the cipher stands for another.

“HLNYKRDS BKXOAW ZL BOYK HKNH GKNH RB XPPLVLW RB ELVYLRJLW NB N JNAONZAL SRPH NDW DXH NB N KNVW WOHT.” –NAZLVH LRDBHLRD “E KOGL BK KOJ CYEOP VC V CESJ; KCYJWIEXJ, E PJC NKOHZXJB VOB CYJO E NVO’C CWENR LKZ.” –(TZBPJ) TZBL XYJEOBGEO Puzzle Two Clue: S equals M

WEST ORANG E HISTO RY

OBSERVER

Puzzle One Clue: G equals W

14

©2019 NEA, Inc.

SUDOKU

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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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Offers available in AR, CT, DC, FL, GA, MD, MS, NC, NJ, NY, SC, TX and VA. Portfolio by Wells Fargo® customers are eligible to receive an additional bonus interest rate on these accounts.3 1. To qualify for this offer, you must have a new or existing Platinum Savings account and enroll the account in this offer between 03/25/2019 and 05/31/2019. This offer is subject to change at any time, without notice. This offer is available only to Platinum Savings customers in the following states: AR, CT, DC, FL, GA, MD, MS, NC, NJ, NY, SC, TX and VA. In order to earn the Special Interest Rate of 2.08% (Special Rate), you must deposit $25,000 in new money (from sources outside of Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., or its affiliates) to the enrolled savings account and maintain a minimum daily account balance of $25,000 throughout the term of this offer. The corresponding Annual Percentage Yield (APY) for this offer is 2.10%. The Special Rate will be applied to the enrolled savings account for a period of 12 months, starting on the date the account is enrolled in the offer. However, for any day during that 12 month period that the daily account balance is less than the $25,000 minimum, the Special Rate will not apply, and the interest rate will revert to the standard interest rate applicable to your Platinum Savings account. As of 02/15/2019, the standard interest rate and APY for a Platinum Savings account in AR, CT, DC, FL, GA, MD, MS, NC, NJ, NY, SC, TX and VA with an account balance of $0.01 and above is 0.05% (0.05% APY). Each tier shown reflects the current minimum daily collected balance required to obtain the applicable APY. Interest is compounded daily and paid monthly.

The amount of interest earned is based on the daily collected balances in the account. Upon the expiration of the 12 month promotional period, standard interest rates apply. Minimum to open a Platinum Savings account is $25. A monthly service fee of $12 applies in any month the account falls below a $3,500 minimum daily balance. Fees may reduce earnings. Interest rates are variable and subject to change without notice. Wells Fargo may limit the amount you deposit to a Platinum Savings account to an aggregate of $1 million. Offer not available to Private Banking or Wealth customers.

2. Annual Percentage Yield (APY) is effective for accounts opened between 03/25/2019 to 05/31/2019. The 11-month New Dollar CD special requires a minimum of $25,000 brought to Wells Fargo from sources outside of Wells Fargo Bank N.A., or its affiliates to earn the advertised APY. Public Funds and Wholesale accounts are not eligible for this offer. APY assumes interest remains on deposit until maturity. Interest is compounded daily. Payment of interest on CDs is based on term: For terms less than 12 months (365 days), interest may be paid monthly, quarterly, semi-annually, or at maturity (the end of the term). For terms of 12 months or more, interest may be paid monthly, quarterly, semi-annually, or annually. A fee for early withdrawal will be imposed and could reduce earnings on this account. Special Rates are applicable to the initial term of the CD only. At maturity, the Special Rate CD will automatically renew for a term of 6 months, at the interest rate and APY in effect for CDs on renewal date not subject to a Special Rate, unless the Bank has notified you otherwise. 1,2. Due to the new money requirement, accounts may only be opened at your local branch. Wells Fargo reserves the right to modify or discontinue the offer at any time without notice. Minimum new money deposit requirement of at least $25,000 is for this offer only and cannot be transferred to another account to qualify for any other consumer deposit offer. If you wish to take advantage of another consumer deposit offer requiring a minimum new money deposit, you will be required to do so with another new money deposit as stated in the offer requirements and qualifications. Offer cannot be combined with any other consumer deposit offer, except the Portfolio by Wells Fargo $500 offer, available from March 25, 2019 until May 31, 2019. Offer cannot be reproduced, purchased, sold, transferred, or traded. 3. The Portfolio by Wells Fargo program has a $30 monthly service fee, which can be avoided when you have one of the following qualifying balances: $25,000 or more in qualifying linked bank deposit accounts (checking, savings, CDs, FDIC-insured IRAs) or $50,000 or more in any combination of qualifying linked banking, brokerage (available through Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC) and credit balances (including 10% of mortgage balances, certain mortgages not eligible).

If the Portfolio by Wells Fargo relationship is terminated, the bonus interest rate on all eligible savings accounts, and discounts or fee waivers on other products and services, will discontinue and revert to the Bank’s then-current applicable rate or fee. For bonus interest rates on time accounts, this change will occur upon renewal. If the Portfolio by Wells Fargo relationship is terminated, the remaining unlinked Wells Fargo Portfolio Checking or Wells Fargo Prime Checking account will be converted to another checking product or closed. © 2019 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. Deposit products offered by Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. NMLSR ID 399801

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Talk to a banker for details.

Offer expires May 31, 2019.

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