05.11.17 West Orange Times & Observer

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

Observer Celebrating 110 years in West Orange

YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD. FREE

VOLUME 84, NO. 19

•

THURSDAY, MAY 11, 2017

Their time to shine

Athletes with special needs took the field for the Big Orange Games. 27.

YOUR TOWN

Amy Quesinberry

During Kindness Week at SunRidge Elementary School, Principal Christy Gorberg received notes of praise from students.

SunRidge school welcomes principal The Orange County School Board named Christy Gorberg as the new principal at the Winter Garden school.

AMY QUESINBERRY COMMUNITY EDITOR WINTER GARDEN Ask Christy Gorberg what she finds most gratifying as an elementary school principal, and she’ll tell you the story of the first-grader and the golden bicycle.

The new principal of SunRidge Elementary School

CALLING IT A CAREER

TINY HOUSE

BIG PROJECT If you’ve ever thought you might enjoy living in a tiny house, Westside will be giving you a chance to bid on one by the end of the school year. SEE PAGE 4.

SEE PRINCIPAL PAGE 8

HEROIC EFFORT

Innovation Montessori Ocoee slated for August opening

ARTS & CULTURE

STAFF WRITER

Superheroes, villains spotted in Horizon West for Bridgewater’s first Flash Dash 5K. PAGE 13.

SEE SCHOOL PAGE 4

PRESERVE PLANS BURNS

If you see smoke coming from the Oakland Nature Preserve this month, there is no cause for concern.

Officials are scheduling a controlled burn behind the Education Center to maintain the natural lifecycle of the sandhill habitat and to prevent high-intensity fires.

Sandhill animals survive these low-intensity fires by taking cover high in the trees or underground in gopher tortoise burrows.

These burns are done only by licensed professionals and only when weather conditions are just right.

HELP STAMP OUT HUNGER

GABBY BAQUERO

Innovation Montessori Ocoee, a new charter school coming to Ocoee, acquired commission approval for its second construction phase and quickly is coming together.

Formerly known as Montes-

Kimmie Laird, a first-grade teacher at Dillard Street Elementary School, is retiring after 24 years of teaching at the Winter Garden school.

A retirement party/reunion will take place at 2 p.m. Wednesday, May 17, and all former students and their families are invited to attend.

Dillard Street Elementary is located at 311 N. Dillard St., Winter Garden.

Spanish talent TV show features local opera singer.

SEE PAGE 11.

Mail carriers will be collecting food for Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida on Saturday, May 13, during the 25th annual Stamp Out Hunger! food drive.

Residents are being asked to place sturdy bags full of canned goods and other non-perishable foods beside their mailbox for pick-up.

The food will be taken to the food bank to be distributed to individuals and families in need.

Last year, more than 218,000 pounds of food was collected. For information, visit FeedHomeNow.org.

2

YOU R CALENDAR

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

|

THURSDAY, MAY 11

CLOUD COMPUTING 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Thursday, May 11, at the Winter Garden Library, 805 E. Plant St. Move your documents to the cloud.

Learn how to collaborate, share and access your files from anywhere with free online applications from Microsoft and Google. (407) 835-7323.

MOTHER’S DAY PAINT PARTY 4 to 6 p.m. Thursday, May 11, at Michael’s Ali Pizza, Plant Street Market, 426 W. Plant St., Winter Garden. Children can paint a mason jar perfect for tea or flowers. Each craft includes a slice of pizza and a juice box.

Cost is $15. Reserve space by messaging the Paint Life page on Facebook.

WEST ORANGE REPUBLICAN WOMEN FEDERATED 11:30 a.m. Thursday, May 11, at the West Orange Country Club, 3300 West Orange Country Club Drive, Winter Garden.

OUR TOUGHNESS IS YOUR STRENGTH.

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, MAY 11, 2017

The guest speaker for the general meeting is Charlotte White, district representative. The club also will celebrate Greta Weis, one of the original members of the Florida Federation of Republican Women. Buffet served at noon. Cost is $20. For information, worw.federated@gmail. com. RSVP at (407) 230-5968.

FRIDAY, MAY 12

FRIDAYS ON THE PLAZA 7 to 9 p.m. Friday, May 12, at the gazebo in downtown Winter Garden. Enjoy live music every Friday night in the Centennial Plaza on Plant Street. Sandy Back Porch will perform its bluegrass tunes this week.

(407) 656-4111.

RIBBON CUTTING: J. REID GROUP 8:30 a.m Friday, May 12, at the West Orange Chamber of Commerce, 12184 W. Colonial Drive, Winter Garden.

Heather Papoulis, (561) 310-4317, or James Reid, (480) 7347809.

SENIOR CHOIR PRACTICE 10:30 a.m. Friday, May 12, at West Orange Seniors, 1701 Adair St., Ocoee. Singers perform at area health centers.

There is no charge. (407) 5924498 or westorangeseniors. yolasite.com.

SATURDAY, MAY 13

FLORIDA BLACK BEAR LECTURE 10 a.m. Saturday, May 13, in the Oakland Nature Preserve classroom, 747 Machete Trail, Oakland. Join Natalae Almeter for an informative lecture on the Florida black bear. Almeter works with the Florida Black Bear Management Program.

All ages are welcome. Register at oaklandnaturepreserve. org/programs. Free for ONP members, $5 for others. (407) 905-0054.

MOM-APROVED MOVIE & CRAFT 10:30 a.m. Saturday, May 13, at the Winter Garden Library, 805 E. Plant St. Enjoy a momapproved movie and craft with a family-friendly screening of Disney’s “Brave.” Ages 6 to 12.

(407) 835-7323.

OPEN LANGUAGE LAB 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, May 13, at the Winter Garden Library, 805 E. Plant St. Explore and learn

English (ESOL) or the language of your choice in an open lab environment. Learn and practice using one of the available programs. (407) 835-7323.

MONDAY, MAY 15

CRAFTING PAPER FLOWERS 6:30 p.m. Monday, May 15, at the Winter Garden Library, 805 E. Plant St. Create a bouquet of paper flowers. This hands-on event will explore various methods for making paper blooms.

Supplies will be provided.

Registration required at (407) 835-7323.

NEW PASTOR MEET-AND-GREET 6:30 to 8 p.m. Monday, May 15, at Ocoee Oaks United Methodist Church, 201 S. Clarke Road, Ocoee. The community is invited to say goodbye to Pastor Eric McCrea and meet the church’s new pastor, Wade Arnold. (407) 293-0700.

TUESDAY, MAY 16

CHOOSING WHOLE GRAINS 11 a.m. Tuesday, May 16, at the West Oaks Library, 1821 E. Silver Star Road, Ocoee. Learn the importance of eating whole grains and how to identify whether or not a product is whole grain by learning to read labels. Space is limited.

Registration required at (407) 835-7323.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 17

PAPERLESS GENEALOGIST 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 17, at the West Oaks Library, 1821 E. Silver Star Road, Ocoee.

Feeling bogged down with too much paper from years of genealogical research? Explore options for going paperless and see how digital versions can actually enhance the research experience. (407) 835-7323.

SATURDAY, MAY 20

CORNHOLE TOURNAMENT 1 to 6 p.m. Saturday, May 20, at Hagan O’Reilly’s, 18112 Marsh Road, Winter Garden. The event is presented by the West Orange High School Quarterback Club to benefit the school’s football team. Cost is $20 per person to play in the tournament. Also, 5% of food and bar receipts will go back to the club to help pay for equipment, team meals and more. Register online at wowarriorfootball.com or between noon and 12:45 p.m. at the event.

TUESDAY, MAY 30

SOCIAL MEDIA AND PARENTING 6 p.m Tuesday, May 30, at the Roper Family YMCA, 100 Windermere Road, Winter Garden.

Special guest is Renaut Van Der Riet, lead pastor of Mosaic Church and father of eight children. (407) 656-6430.

12403 WEST COLONIAL DRIVE, WINTER GARDEN • (407) 654-9299 • VISIT US ONLINE AT MAINSTREETMOWER.COM

I am Dr. Britton and I choose Orlando Health.

Specialty: Pediatric Medicine at Orlando Health Physician Associates

As a student in medical school, I first thought I wanted to be an OB/GYN physician. But when I delivered my first baby as an intern, I suddenly realized I wanted to be a pediatrician to help newborns and their families grow and thrive.

I joined Orlando Health and Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children because of the trust and confidence I felt working with many of their physicians. I continue to appreciate their mission of caring for the community. That’s something I value and want to be a part of.

ChooseOrlandoHealth.com 239355

I choose to be part of a caring community.

239392

NOW OPEN 7AM-5PM

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

|

3

THURSDAY, MAY 11, 2017

Florida Legislature adopts 278-page education bill Florida lawmakers Monday, May 8, passed House Bill 7069 — a bill that includes several provisions, such as testing reforms.

GABBY BAQUERO STAFF WRITER

Old Florida Charm Courtesy

The city of Winter Garden has partnered with the UCF College of Medicine and West Orange Healthcare District to renovate the 209-acre Tucker Ranch, which will include a nature park and organic farm.

Winter Garden will create a nature park and organic farm at Tucker Ranch.

GABBY BAQUERO STAFF WRITER

“So by doing this, we’ll provide (quality produce) to our farmers market and fill a need for residents who want good, healthy produce.”

— City Manager Mike Bollhoefer

is putting in infrastructure, such as roads and water and sewer.

And we’ve also done a big project of getting rid of all the invasive plants … so we’re restoring it to its natural flora — that’s part of our whole objective.”

The nature park will have hiking trails, a canoe and kayak launch, campground and playground.

The city also plans to restore the historic arch and revive the area that once held the West Orange Country Club, which closed down in 1924 after flood damage made it impractical to host a golf course. The Tucker family then purchased the land and named it Tucker and Son Ranch.

“Oh, I think it’s great, and it’ll be very nice and beneficial to the public,” said Mary Burroughs, who grew up on the ranch along with her brothers. “I know my parents would be very pleased about it, because they didn’t want it to be developed, and this way, a lot of people can use it and enjoy the land and everything.”

The farm itself, which could later expand to 15 acres, Bollhoefer said, will be located on the

southeast corner of the park. The plan, he added, is to make it a permaculture garden that produces up to one million pounds of food for West Orange County residents and the local farmers market.

“One of the downsides of farmers markets in Central Florida is there’s not a large farm industry in this area, so it’s very difficult for farmers markets to find good, fresh, quality produce,” he said.

“So by doing this, we’ll provide that to our farmers market and fill a need for residents who want good, healthy produce.”

Via a partnership with the University of Central Florida’s College of Medicine, the park also will host wellness classes as part of its goal to contribute to the Healthy West Orange initiative that aims to make West Orange County the healthiest county in the country.

The classes will range from topics such as health, nutrition and urban gardening and even include tai chi, yoga classes and healthy cooking.

Contact Gabby Baquero at gbaquero@orangeobserver.com.

Come find a safe haven for your soul at

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

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

MAJOR PROVISIONS n Requires school districts to share local millage revenue with charter schools n Authorizes a high-performing charter school to establish more than one charter school in any year if it operates in the area of a persistently lowperforming school and serves students from that school, and allows a high-performing charter school system to replicate its schools in any district in the state and specifies application requirements n Revises eligibility for Florida Best and Brightest Teacher Scholarship Program and creates Florida Best and Brightest Principal Scholarship Program n Authorizes school absence related to the treatment of autism spectrum disorder n Requires 20 minutes of consecutive free-play recess per day for kindergarten through fifth grade students in traditional public schools, and exempts charter schools from the specified requirements n Authorizes the establishment of Schools of Hope program to provide students in areas with low-performing schools with another option

HB7069 finally pass given the testing reform it included.

“Some people weren’t thrilled about the process ... in the real world sometimes you have to take the good with the bad,” Fine said, referring to the debate in the Senate against HB7059.

The Opt Out Florida Network is calling for Florida Gov. Rick Scott to veto the bill.

Contact Gabby Baquero at gbaquero@orangeobserver.com.

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

Friends of Les Feldick 236023

A $1.7 million grant was the fertilizer the city of Winter Garden needed to make its long-held dream of growing a 12-acre organic farm and accompanying nature park flourish.

Winter Garden leaders have had this vision in mind since it purchased the 209 acres in 2013 from the family who, for many years, owned Tucker Ranch off Avalon Road and used it to grow food and raise cattle.

With just a year remaining before the expected opening of the park and estimated harvest time for the farm, the city has much to do and, now, the money to do it courtesy of the West Orange Healthcare District, which awarded the grant.

But the city has been hard at work preparing the land for the ambitious plans it has in store for its near future.

“We’ve been working out there for over two years,” City Manager Mike Bollhoefer said. “One of the primary things we’ve been doing

WINTER GARDEN

Two votes made all the difference for a state bill that passed both legislative houses May 8.

The $419 million education bill, known as House Bill 7069, was one of the few left after an array of related bills with similar provisions failed to pass in one house or the other. After several amendments and additions, HB7069 grew into what one senator termed a “monstrosity” — a 278-page conforming bill that was essentially the product of several bills thrown together that had either died in a committee or chamber.

The bill, which passed the House 73-36, incited nearly three hours of questions and debate in the senate but finally passed 20-18. Although packed with provisions involving 25 topics, the main provisions included the modification of eligibility requirements for teacher bonuses under the Best and Brightest Teacher Scholarship Program, the establishment of a program titled Schools of Hope, the requirement of free-play recess, a revision of standard assessment test procedures and distribution of Title I funding.

Provisions relating to testing reform were of particular interest to many parents and organized groups that had lobbied against the undue pressure and focus on the Florida Standard Assessment.

And although several bills — such as HB549 and SB926 — failed to pass — Sandy Stenoff, of the Opt Out Florida Network coalition, maintained none of the bills, including HB7069, would have truly made any difference.

Regarding tests, HB7069 eliminates the Algebra II end-ofcourse assessment requirement, creates exemptions for some students regarding the personal fitness competency exam, and allows for an independent study to be done to determine whether the ACT or SAT could adequately replace the 10th-grade ELA assessment and Algebra I end of course assessment. All of these provisions were taken from the now-defunct HB549, which was sponsored by State Rep. Randy Fine. Fine was thrilled to see

TESTING REFORM PROVISIONS n Eliminates Algebra II EOC assessment requirement n Exempts certain students from personal fitness exam n Requires paper-pencil ELA and math assessments for grades 3-6 n Requires Department of Education to publish statewide assessments n Requires the commissioner of education to contract for an independent study of ACT and SAT exams as an alternative for the 10th-grade ELA assessment and Algebra I end-ofcourse assessment

4

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

|

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, MAY 11, 2017

WEST ORANGE TIMES &

Itty, bitty living space

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

Friedrich Hayek “Road to Serfdom,” 1944 Publisher / Dawn Willis, dwillis@OrangeObserver.com Executive Editor / Michael Eng, meng@OrangeObserver.com Design Editor / Jessica Eng, jeng@OrangeObserver.com Community Editor / Amy Quesinberry, amyq@OrangeObserver.com Senior Sports Editor / Steven Ryzewski,

AMY QUESINBERRY

sryzewski@OrangeObserver.com

COMMUNITY EDITOR

Staff Writers Gabby Baquero, gbaquero@Orange

WINTER GARDEN For four months,

students in the building construction technologies, electrical and HVAC programs have been working side by side on a project that will raise funds for Orange Technical College — Westside Campus in Winter Garden.

Dubbed the Tiny House Project, it is exactly that — a six-foot-by20-foot home with all the same features as a traditional home — only on a greatly reduced scale.

When completed, it will have a kitchen, dining/living room, bathroom with shower and loft bedroom.

The exterior will include a metal roof Fiberglas siding and composite trim, said Bob Harman, the building construction technologies instructor at Westside and project manager for the tiny house.

Harman said the estimated market value for a comparable home is $60,000.

“The goal is for the home to be auctioned off and the proceeds benefiting (Career and Technical Education) students in a variety of programs,” he said.

Final details have not been made for selling the tiny house, as this will depend on when the home is finished. Harman said he is crossing his fingers that it is done by the end of the school term, later this month.

On a recent afternoon, con-

Observer.com Brittany Gaines, bgaines@Orange Observer.com Danielle Hendrix, dhendrix@OrangeObserver.com Advertising Executives Michelle Gentry, mgentry@Orange Observer.com Cyndi Gustafson, advertising@Orange Observer.com Ann Marie Vibbert, avibbert@Orange Observer.com Pam Zerblas, pzerblas@OrangeObserver.com Creative Services Tony Trotti, ttrotti@OrangeObserver.com Kathleen Carreiro, kcarreiro@OrangeObserver.com Customer Service Representatives Photos by Amy Quesinberry

Orange Technical College — Westside Campus officials hope the students complete the house project by the end of the school year.

struction and electrical students were busy measuring, cutting, nailing and wiring — both inside and outside the house.

The designed selected for this project is the Shonsie, chosen because it looked the most like a Florida home, he said. It is sold at 84 Lumber.

This is Harman’s first year of teaching the BCT course at Westside. He opened a similar program at East River High School in his second year with Orange County Public Schools. He has 45 years of experience in the construction industry and is a carpenter

by trade. He has spent the last 15 years teaching construction to youth and adults.

The Westside team presented the idea of building a tiny house to Dr. Mike Armbruster, CTE associate superintendent, who supported the project wholeheartedly, he said.

“I love the project, because it is timely with all the shows about tiny houses and because it gives students the opportunity to do real work, including carpentry, plumbing, electrical, HVAC and roofing and actually have a finished project at the end,” Armbruster said. “I think it has been a great experience for the students and a wonderful tool for learning

School set for fall opening CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

sori of Winter Garden Charter School, which operated out of a strip mall for six years, Innovation Montessori Ocoee will be located on 18 acres at 1610 N. Lakewood Ave. The campus will have an 800-student capacity and three buildings totaling 46,000 square feet of indoor learning space: an 8,000-square-foot classroom building for about 125 pre-K through kindergarten students; a two-story, 34,000-square-foot building that will house about 675 first-grade through eighth-grade students; and a 4,000-squarefoot multipurpose building.

Sherilyn Moore, the school’s governing board president, said the multipurpose building likely will be used to host several different school programs, student gatherings and events, including yoga sessions, indoor recess, after-school activities, parent

INSIDE

activities, clubs and assemblies.

But the most prized features of the campus are its environmentally friendly focus, playgrounds, gardens and structures that serve to contribute to a more hands-on learning atmosphere.

“We actually hope to get the students outside as much as possible, and having that land gives us the opportunity to do that,” Moore said. “There are a couple of different spaces that we included in our site plan to do that, and one of them is near the retention pond where parent volunteers are going to be creating this gorgeous garden space.”

In addition to the flower and herb gardens, which will be situated near a retention pond, the site will have an outdoor classroom, a 4.5-acre nature preserve and two playgrounds. Both playgrounds will have shade provided by some of the 200 existing oak trees the school board decided to integrate into the campus. One

playground, which will be for the primary students, will be 1,700 square feet and the second, for the elementary and middle-school students, will be an environmental playground.

The idea is to give the teachers the opportunity to take the students out whenever they see fit, cultivate a more hands-on learning approach and preserve one of the main goals of a Montessori education, which Moore said is to create stewards of the natural environment.

“We wanted to create a school that we always dreamed of going to when we were younger,” Moore said.

The primary classroom building is expected to open in August, and the school’s two-story, 34,000-square-foot building and multipurpose building are slated to open in January.

Contact Gabby Baquero at gbaquero@orangeobserver.com.

For photos of the Innovation Montessori Ocoee groundbreaking, see page 21.

so many different skills.”

Harman agrees it’s been a positive experience for the students.

Westside Senior Director Crystal Davidson-Sims also has put her stamp of approval on the unique fundraiser.

Armbruster was asked where he would take his tiny house if he had one, and he said although he’s 6-foot-2 and too claustrophobic for that environment, he would enjoying taking this one to a mountain lake in north Georgia or Tennessee.

Contact Amy Quesinberry at AmyQ@orangeobserver.com.

IN OTHER NEWS n Commissioners agreed by consensus to further amend an ordinance proposing an earlier start time to the commission meetings. The ordinance, as written, proposed a 6:30 p.m. start time; however, once it is revised, it will propose a start time of 6:15 p.m. If the ordinance passes during its second reading May 16, it will become effective in June. n The commission passed the second reading of an ordinance regulating sign spinners. The ordinance forbids human sign twirlers from public property and restricts one human sign per business.

All human signs must remain on the same parcel or common areas within which the business, commodity, service or product is located, and no human sign can exceed more than 2 feet by 4 feet. n Commissioners approved giving the city’s Parks and Recreation Department $7,300 to add four benches on North Lakeshore Drive.

Allison Brunelle, abrunelle@Orange Observer.com Sarah Felt, sfelt@OrangeObserver.com

CONTACT US

The West Orange Times & Observer is published once weekly, on Thursdays.

The West Orange Times & Observer can be found in many commercial locations throughout West Orange County and at our office.

If you wish to subscribe, 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 (407) 656-2121. For Classifieds, call (407) 656-2121.

SEND US YOUR NEWS

We want to hear from you. Let us know about your events, celebrations and achievements.

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.

Observer Media Group Inc. 1970 Main St. • Sarasota, FL 34236 941-366-3468

Editor and CEO / Matt Walsh Vice President / Lisa Walsh Chairman / David Beliles Publishers of the Longboat Observer, East County Observer, Sarasota Observer, Siesta Key Observer, Palm Coast Observer, Plant City Times & Observer, Ormond Beach Observer, West Orange Times & Observer, Windermere Observer, Winter Park/Maitland Observer, Business Observer, Jacksonville Financial News & Daily Record, Jacksonville Realty-Builder Connection, LWR Life, Season Magazine and Baldwin Park Living

OrangeObserver.com © 2017 The Observer Media Group Inc. All Rights Reserved

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

|

THURSDAY, MAY 11, 2017

5

FOR PEOPLE WITH MEDICARE

Why wait until October to choose CarePlus?

You may qualify for a Special Enrollment Period to join a CarePlus Medicare Advantage Plan right now, if any of these circumstances apply to you:

Are turning or have recently turned 65 SALE

Recently moved to the area Are losing your retiree health coverage Have Medicaid Receive Extra Help with your prescription drug costs or think you may qualify Or other special circumstances

CarePlus offers affordable coverage, a strong network of qualified doctors and a customized approach to health care. Since 2000, CarePlus has been helping our members live more active, independent lives by focusing on prevention. And because we specialize in Medicare – and only Medicare – CarePlus can help guide you through the process.

CALL AND SPEAK TO A LICENSED SALES AGENT TO SEE IF YOU QUALIFY TO ENROLL TODAY.

1-866-352-7177 (TTY: 711) Monday – Friday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

South and North Florida, Tampa and Orlando Area, Treasure and Space Coast. CarePlus is an HMO plan with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in CarePlus depends on contract renewal. By calling this number you will reach a licensed sales agent.

Discrimination is Against the Law. CarePlus Health Plans, Inc. (“CarePlus”) complies with applicable Federal civil rights laws and does notCMYK discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, PANTONE COLORS age, disability, or sex. English: ATTENTION: If you do not speak English, language assistance services free of charge are available to you. Call 1-800-794-5907 (TTY: 711). Español (Spanish): ATENCIÓN: Si habla español, tiene a su disposición servicios gratuitos de asistencia lingüística. Llame al 1-800-794-5907 (TTY: 711).

PRIMARY Kreyòl Ayisyen (French Creole): ATANSYON: Si w pale Kreyòl Ayisyen, gen sèvis èd pou lang ki disponib gratis pou ou. Rele 1-800-794-5907 (TTY: 711).

H1019_MKN183G Accepted 30 0

CPP-10962 - E_PN_AllInOne_WOT_5.4_FINAL.indd 1

SECONDARY

20 0

300

2 00

237834

CarePlusHealthPlans.com

Like us on Facebook

5/3/17 11:19 AM

6

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

|

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, MAY 11, 2017

Steven Ryzewski

Foundation Academy officials and local elected officials participated in the groundbreaking ceremony May 5 for the school’s $1.5 million athletic complex.

Foundation breaks ground on $1.5 million athletic complex STEVEN RYZEWSKI SENIOR SPORTS EDITOR WINTER GARDEN The dream of an on-campus football stadium is becoming a reality at Foundation Academy.

The private school in south Winter Garden held a groundbreaking ceremony May 5 to celebrate the beginning of construction on its $1.5 million athletic complex. The new complex will include a football field, track, lights, stands with a press box, scoreboard, goal posts and field house. The complex will service the Lions’ football, soccer and track programs.

The school’s football team usually plays its home football games at Walker Field in Winter Garden, and it has had no track to practice on — though that hasn’t hindered the growth of the Lions’ track and field program. The school’s soc-

cer teams previously played on an on-campus field that will be demolished to make way for the new facility.

Athletic Director David Baginski, who guided most of the ceremony, said the Foundation Academy football team will take the field on its new field at some point during the fall 2017 season.

The hope is for the field to be ready for the Lions’ home opener Aug. 25 against Cambridge Christian, although Baginski acknowledges that is an ambitious goal.

The secondary target date would be to give the school’s Homecoming game a little added meaning, having the field ready to debut for Foundation’s Oct. 6 showdown against Seven Rivers Christian.

Either way, for football coach Brad Lord, who has been on campus for 10 years and taken the program to the playoffs in four of the

past five seasons, the idea of playing a true home game this fall is an exciting one.

“With Walker Field, we consider it home, but the kids want to play on campus,” Lord said. “This is a big thing for us.”

The acceleration of the plans for an on-campus athletics facility three years ago roughly coincides with the hiring of David Buckles as the school’s president. Buckles said although building a football stadium was not his top priority when he took the job, he quickly realized its value in the bigger picture vision for the school — a vision that includes more classroom space, an addition to the school’s existing technology building, an expansion to the gymnasium and a fine-arts building that can seat 1,200, among other things.

“My first process was to look at the school as a whole and assess,

‘What are our needs and how do we grow?’” Buckles said. “I hate to use the old cliché, ‘Build it, and they will come,’ but as I started going around and speaking to other heads of schools throughout the state, one of the things I found out was an athletic complex stimulated their growth.”

The growth of Foundation — and its potential for more growth — seems to be tied to the large growth of Winter Garden and Horizon West. The school acquired its property on Tilden Road a decade ago in a move that has proved prescient.

“Without a doubt, we are feeling (the growth),” Buckles said. “This year, already, we have more students enrolled for next school year

than we have enrolled this year — and we’re seeing that because of the families that are moving into the area. We’ve had numerous families that are from the Carolinas to Texas (who) are touring with their kids. We are benefiting from the growth of West Orange County, without a doubt.”

All of which combines to make for an exciting time to be a Lion.

“The projects are coming one after another,” Buckles said. “Our strategic plan shows over the next 10 years that there is a possibility of $20 million worth of construction and buildings on this property.”

Contact Steven Ryzewski at sryzewski@orangeobserver.com.

We are

THE SHERIDAN AT WINDERMERE

Sneak Peek Events

CALL 407-605-5634 TODAY TO LEARN MORE AND SCHEDULE YOUR PERSONAL TOUR.

ASSISTED LIVING | MEMORY CARE WELCOME CENTER 13794 BRIDGEWATER CROSSINGS BLVD. APT. 112 WINDERMERE, FL 34786 WWW.SENIORLIFESTYLE.COM Shall be applying for LNS Assisted Living License

235378

GET A GLIMPSE OF WINDERMERE’S NEWEST LAKEFRONT ASSISTED LIVING AND MEMORY CARE COMMUNITY.

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

|

7

THURSDAY, MAY 11, 2017

Get hooked on great Service!

WINTER GARDEN APRIL 22

13720 block of West Colonial Drive.

At about 8 a.m., a law-enforcement officer responded to a call at a pharmacy in reference to an unwanted person who had spent three to five hours in the store. The officer was advised by the complainant that the customer had been asked to leave multiple times but the customer refused to do so. An employee stated she noticed open packages of merchandise in the restroom’s trash bin that the customer had vacated.

A search of the customer’s purse produced multiple hypodermic needles, clear baggies with suspected heroin and multiple items that store employees confirmed matched the packaging in the restroom’s trash bin. The items were a portable Bluetooth speaker, body spray, false nails and deodorant totaling $67.24.

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

407-470-7014

SALES • SERVICE • INSTALLATION • MAINTENANCE

WINTER GARDEN

500 S. Dillard St

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

M-F 6-7:30, Sat 6-7, Sun 6-6

407.656.2593 www.DuncansACOrlando.com

239423

www.ToolesAceHardware.com

Visit us on Facebook for Special deals: www.facebook.com/toolesacehardware

239373

COPS CORNER

OrangeObserver.com

YOU’RE UNIQUE.

OCOEE APRIL 23

Your health care should be as unique as you are.

West Colonial Drive. At 11 p.m., an officer was on duty ensuring vehicles avoided travel on Clarke Road’s southbound lanes at West Colonial Drive, which were blocked because of construction. A vehicle approaching the intersection drove into the construction site on a lane that had just been milled. Construction workers wearing orange reflective vests and waving light wands instructed the driver to stop, but the driver did not stop and instead continued east. The officer pursued the vehicle and conducted a stop. The officer approached the car and recognized the odor of alcohol emanating from the interior of the car and found three occupants with bloodshot eyes. The driver, speaking with a slurred speech, informed the officer that they had attended a party and he had personally consumed three beers. The driver was secured into handcuffs after failing to perform sobriety exercises correctly.

The driver’s breath test resulted in readings of 0.135 and 0.137.

That’s why Congresswoman

Stephanie Murphy

WINDERMERE APRIL 19

Conroy Windermere Road. At 10:08 p.m., an officer conducting routine patrol on Conroy Windermere Road observed a car traveling east and conducted a tag check, which showed the registered owner possessed a learner’s permit that had expired in 2008. The officer conducted a traffic stop and requested assistance from a Spanish-speaking officer. The driver informed the Spanish-speaking officer that he was driving because he had to work.

The driver was arrested for driving without a valid license.

is making sure your health care FITS YOU. Some in Washington want to give unelected bureaucrats the power to limit your access to the doctor you need, medicines and treatments. Congresswoman Murphy said no. And she’s fighting to strengthen Medicare.

Blueberries You-Pick

Congresswoman Murphy knows the right way to address our health care challenges. She’s making sure you and your doctor – and nobody else – are making the right choices that work for you.

Doctors, hospitals, patients and senior groups have all come together to stand up for making sure your voice is heard, and so has Congresswoman Murphy.

Call Representative Stephanie Murphy OPEN MOTHER’S DAY!

Open 7 days a week 9:00 am - 5:00 pm

at 407-204-3368 or contact her at stephaniemurphy.house.gov and tell her thank you for making sure your health care fits you.

Thank her for co-sponsoring HR 849.

Overstreet Rd is approx. 8 miles south of Hwy 50 on Hwy 535, just West of Chase Rd.

241035

beckblueberries11@gmail.com

Paid for by Center Forward

240794

12500 Overstreet Rd • Windermere

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

|

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, MAY 11, 2017

Dr. Alan Wong, DMD

•

New principal excited for future

Dr. Ana Garcia, DDS

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

&

BrAceS inViSAliGn®

FREE 0% CONSULTATION INCLUDING

Braces & Invisalign® FINANCING FOR EVERYONE

+ FOR 1 FREE 0% 2XRAYS ®

“Se Habla Español”

2+ FOR 1 DOWN PAYMENT SPECIAL*

New Patients Only

DOWN PAYMENT SPECIAL*

CONSULTATION INCLUDING XRAYS*

FINANCING FOR 515 N PARK AVE, STE 10 EVERYONE*

New Patients Only

CLERMONT

65 CR 542 W.

BUSHNELL

407.703.2744 Alan • www .TheModernSMile.coM M. Wong, DMD

*Start 2 or more patients same day and down payment required will be same as a single treatment start. 2 or more patients must begin treatment before 1/31/16 to take advantage of special. Offer not combinable with any other offer or discount. Valid one time use only.

Must present ad at initial consultation. Valid for new patients only. Down payment special excludes Invisalign®.

239573

1455 E. HIGHWAY 50

APOPKA

*Start 2 or more patients same day and down payment required will be same as a single treatment start. 2 or more patients must begin treatment before 5/31/17 to take advantage of special. Offer not combinable with any other offer or discount. Valid one time use only. Must present ad at initial consultation. Valid for new patients only. Down payment special excludes Invisalign®.

352.242.1818 THEMODERNSMILE.COM

112 Rock Springs Rd., Apopka LE.COM

50, Clermont

65 CR 542 W., Bushnell

1455 E. Highway 50, Clermont

Live your Oasis

Now Leasing 1, 2, & 3 Bedrooms Luxury Apartment Features...

• Granite Countertops • Stainless Steel Appliances • Full Sized Washer & Dryer • Faux Wood Floors Available • Elevator Access • Garages Available • Smart Home Ready

learned of a young student who was having problems in class, and after talking to him she realized he just needed a little incentive.

She gave him a sticker sheet, to be filled when he did his assigned work and was on his best behavior.

Once it was completed, he would receive his prize: a bicycle to replace his old, broken one.

Last week, he earned the bike — which had been sitting in Gorberg’s garage since her son had outgrown it. And on Friday he was presented with his gift, which he had dubbed the golden bike.

“He’s turned it around,” she said. “He’s done great since I’ve come here, and that’s really special to me to be able to make that impact.”

Gorberg was working as a senior administrator with Orange County Public Schools’ West Learning Community when she was assigned to SunRidge Elementary as acting principal in January.

She replaced Janice Quint, who retired in December after opening the school in 2012.

Gorberg officially was named the school’s principal two weeks ago. One of the school’s first programs following her appointment was a collaboration with a new West Orange County movement called Project 4:29 (See related story, page 9) that takes a proactive stance against bullying. The ceremony was held last Wednesday in the middle of the school’s Kindness Week.

Students spent a week learning about kindness and putting it to practice; Gorberg’s office is full of drawings and notes from them.

“Our thought was this was a positive way to go out into the summer, go out on a positive note,” Gorberg said. “(Project 4:29 organizers) have brought some ideas for carrying the momentum in the summer and for coming back in the fall.”

When the new principal arrived at SunRidge, she made a few slight changes, including opening the computer lab for students in the morning and adding tutoring sessions.

Prior to serving at the West Learning Community level, Gorberg worked at several local high schools, including Ocoee and Olympia.

“It’s been an interesting transition from the high school level,

where I’ve spent much of my career,” she said.

Because of the high-school experience and working with teenagers, she said she feels like she has “the big picture.”

“I see where they’re going to be in 10 years,” she said of the elementary students.

Community and communication are key for producing successful students, Gorberg said.

“Yes, our job is to teach them how to read, write, do math, but we also have to teach them to be good members of society (with) good character traits,” she said.

“We want this to be a happy place, a safe place. We’re just trying to get more of the parents and the community involved. We had a really good turnout for our field day, and they hadn’t really done that before, and we had a good number of parents come out and spend the day with their kids.”

Gorberg has also increased SunRidge’s presence on social media. The school adds frequent positive posts on Facebook and uses it as another tool for disseminating information to parents.

UCF KNIGHT

Gorberg graduated from the University of Central Florida with a Bachelor of Social Science Education in 2000 and first taught social studies at Winter Park High. At Olympia, she taught the same course and then was a dean and resource teacher, all the while leading the student government program and coaching the lacrosse team.

She was an assistant principal at the Colonial High Ninth-Grade Center before spending five years as assistant principal of instruction at Ocoee High.

Gorberg obtained her master’s degree from Stetson University in 2004.

An Ocoee resident, Gorberg has been married for 15 years and has a son in fifth grade at Westbrooke Elementary. He will attend SunRidge Middle in the fall.

Gorberg said the teachers, staff and parents have been very welcoming and helped her settle quickly in her new position.

“It’s very much a family here, and I’m very happy to be part of it,” she said. “I’m just trying to do the right thing for kids, kid by kid.”

Contact Amy Quesinberry at AmyQ@orangeobserver.com.

Discover

GENTLE CHIROPRACTIC

CAR ACCIDENT PAIN? I CAN HELP!

Amenities You’ll Love...

• Beach Entry Saltwater Pool • 24hr Fitness on Demand • Game Room • 24/7 Business Center • Theatre Room • Paw Park with Pet Wash Station

Dr. JO J. reeves,

CHIROPRACTOR 407-656-0390

www.OasisAtLakeBennet.com 229624

906 Oasis Palm Circle • Ocoee, FL 34761 • (844) 690-7023

Discover the effectiveness of GENTLE SPECIFIC CHIROPRACTIC ADJUSTING. Our therapy department, including a licensed massage therapist and acupuncturist enables us to treat many varied conditions. Acute or chronic, mild or severe, if you are suffering, we have the facilities and training to help you.

Most insurance accepted. Lic. # MM1720, MA32524

424 N DillarD St • WiNter GarDeN, Fl • Back Pain • Headaches • Shoulder Pain • Neck Pain • Arthritis • Painful Joints • Stiffness • Numbness • Arm/Leg Pain • Bursitis • Hip Pain • Cold Hands/Feet

239348

8

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

‘Something needs to change’

AUTO • HOME • LIFE • BANK Call ANYTIME to receive State Farm Good Health Insurance OPENour ENROLLMENT Nov.Neighbor 15 thruservice Feb. 15

Agent ChFC, service CLU, CLF Call ANYTIMECraig to receiveMartin our State Farm Good -Neighbor

Craig Martin Craig Martin

Agent - ChFC, CLU, CLF Craig@CraigMartinInsurance.com www.CraigMartinInsurance.com Craig@CraigMartinInsurance.com Agent - ChFC, CLU, CLF www.CraigMartinInsurance.com 13330 W. Colonial Dr., Suite 110 • Winter Garden, FL 34787 Craig@CraigMartinInsurance.com 13330 W. Colonial Dr., Suite 110 • Winter Garden, FL 34787

407-656-1040 407-656-1040

BRITTANY GAINES

www.CraigMartinInsurance.com 13330 W. Colonial Dr., Suite 110 • Winter Garden, FL Hablamos 34787 Español Hablamos Español Hablamos Español

407-656-1040

WINTER GARDEN After witnessing

The greatest compliment you can give iscompliment a referral!

The greatest you can give is a referral!

239359

STAFF WRITER

SPRING SAVINGS OFFER EXTENDED!

9

THURSDAY, MAY 11, 2017

Health Insurance OPEN ENROLLMENT Nov. 15 thru Feb. 15 Health Insurance OPENour ENROLLMENT Nov.Neighbor 15 thru service Feb. 15 Call ANYTIME to receive State Farm Good

Four West Orange women joined forces to create Project 4:29 to end bullying in schools.

The greatest compliment you can give is a referral!

NO MORE FOOT OR ANKLE PAIN! Lake Bennet Medical Center

Brittany Gaines

From left: Jenelle Schmidli, Ymelda Charles, Cheryl Collison and Meredith Rosser created Project 4:29 to tackle the problem of bullying in schools.

PROJECT 4:29

For more information, visit the Project 4:29 Facebook page at facebook.com/ project429 or email project429.2017@gmail.com.

The women named their group after Ephesians 4:29, a Bible verse about using positive and kind words to encourage others.

Although the group is only a few weeks old, it already has created a code of conduct, which provides the students with guidelines to promote being kind to one another and prevent bullying.

“We want them to be leaders in their own school,” Rosser said about students who will participate in the program.

The group has created a summer challenge for students, which

involves doing acts of kindness during the summer months and posting those acts to social media.

Next year, the group hopes to implement an ambassador program in which student leaders from each grade level help promote bullying awareness.

“We want to give the power back to the students, because students listen to students,” Rosser said. “Through the code, the kids have a voice.”

By the end of next year, Project 4:29 hopes to have programs implemented in three different schools in West Orange. So far, SunRidge Elementary and SunRidge Middle have agreed to participate in the program. Project 4:29 is also in talks with Lake County schools.

Contact Brittany Gaines at bgaines@orangeobserver.com.

1151 Blackwood Ave. Ste. 120 Ocoee, FL 34761

www.DrGoodFoot.com Se habla Español Mark A. Lombardo, DPM PODIATRIST

FREE

INITIAL VISIT

With this ad. X-Rays & treatment not included.

• INGROWN NAILS • HAMMERTOES • HEEL SPURS / HEEL PAIN • BUNIONS • CORNS / CALLOUSES • CHILDREN’S DISORDERS • DIABETIC COMPLICATIONS • NEUROMAS • DEGENERATIVE ARTHRITIS, GOUT • SPORTS INJURIES • FOOT / ANKLE • SKIN CONDITIONS OF THE FOOT

407-578-9922

239358

bullying one too many times, four women from Winter Garden have decided to band together to tackle the problem.

They created their anti-bullying group — Project 4:29 — last month and already are working with SunRidge Elementary School to test their new program.

“We decided that now was the time to make a stand,” said Meredith Rosser, one of the founders of the group. “We’re going to be the change.”

The idea for the group started last month, when Rosser witnessed a bullying incident on the West Orange Trail and tried to intervene. Frustrated by the incident, Rosser took her concerns and opinions to Facebook, where she met fellow moms who were also fed up with bullying.

Through conversations, Rosser learned her children weren’t the only ones who had been subject to bullying in the past. In fact, all four founders of Project 4:29 had seen their children or family members endure bullying.

“It’s like, ‘OK we’re done,’” said founder Cheryl Collison. “Something needs to change.”

In four weeks, the four women have gone from a Facebook chat to trying to implement change in schools.

|

MEDICARE & MOST INSURANCE ACCEPTED Our Office Policy: The patient and any other person responsible for payment has the right to refuse to pay; cancel payment or be reimbursed for payment for any other service, examination or treatment which is performed as a result of and within 72 hours of responding to the advertisement for the free, discounted fee or reduced fee service, examination or treatment.

! s g n i v a S g n i r p S “ l oo C “Too

NOW OFFERING SPRING SAVINGS! Offer valid through May 30, 2017

Award winning Memory Care at Serenades West Orange in Winter Garden. .

Commitment to education. Our specialized team stays current with

exciting new developments in Alzheimer’s and dementia care research through ongoing education. This includes formal training in Teepa Snow’s Positive Approach™ to Care program.

Focus on resident wellness. By providing our residents with the care and encouragement to boost our residents physical, emotional and mental well-being – we help to improve their overall quality of life – every single day, regardless of where they are on their personal journey with Alzheimer’s, dementia or memory loss.

CALL 407-614-8680 TODAY!

SERENADES WEST ORANGE 720 Roper Road Winter Garden, FL 34787 407-614-8680 ASSISTED LIVING FACILITY #12328

SERENADESBYSONATA.COM

238222

• Purpose-built design and homelike neighborhoods • On-site licensed nursing care staff 24/7 • Nutritious, fresh chef-inspired meals • Lifelong Learning Program enriches lives

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

|

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, MAY 11, 2017

Amy Quesinberry

Are You Planning For The Three Big Risks in Retirement?

TIMING RISK

What if I pick a bad year to retire?

A TWIST ON MAC-AND-CHEESE

241034

SunRidge Middle cafeteria manager Curtricia Fields; cooking competitors Natalie Gordon, Olivia Lenzen, Kayla Benton and Caroline Gordon; and Principal Patricia Bowen-Painter.

Four SunRidge Middle students are on their way to Tampa Saturday to compete in the Gridiron Cooking Challenge.

AMY QUESINBERRY COMMUNITY EDITOR

The four girls live in the same neighborhood and have been friends since prekindergarten. The SunRidge Middle School students also could be called award-winning junior chefs if their Cheesy Potato Tornadoes are deemed the top dish in the upcoming Gridiron Cooking Challenge.

The Dairy Council of Florida’s fourth annual student challenge takes place Saturday, May 13, at One Buccaneer Place, in Tampa.

Eighth-grader Natalie Gordon and sixth-graders Caroline Gordon, Olivia Lenzen and Kayla Benton saw the announcement for the competition and wanted to enter because they love cooking.

They asked their principal, Patricia Bowen-Painter, if she would approve their entry, which had to be a healthy, original recipe featuring dairy ingredients, and she was all for it.

They will be competing against teams from Citrus, Seminole and Polk counties. The teams will have 60 minutes to prepare their dishes and present them to judges. The winner will receive a $2,500 prize pack for the school, four iPads and other prizes.

WINTER GARDEN

ONLINE

INFLATION RISK

Accompanying the girls to the competition will be their practice coach, Lauren Gordon, who is also Natalie and Caroline’s mother; as well as Curtricia Fields, the school’s cafeteria manager and program adviser for the Gridiron Challenge.

Fields has been helping the girls with their food presentation, finetuning the ingredients and how it is served on the plate.

Caroline, Kayla, Olivia and Natalie have practiced making their dish several Sundays in a row, producing about 20 pounds of Cheesy Potato Tornadoes to perfect the preparation. They will have 60 minutes to make their dish during the competition. During their most recent practice, they finished with 12 minutes to spare.

The team has practiced on a smaller scale on Thursdays.

“They started off strong, and then we hit a roadblock and made some changes,” Gordon said. “But we got back on track. We don’t mind taste-testing it, either.”

Kayla, who provides the potato spiralizer, said her sister loves the dish and has eaten quite a bit of it lately. Caroline thought of the catchy name.

One special ingredient, glutenfree flour, makes the dish appealing to a broader crowd.

“Our one friend, Emma, can’t have gluten, but she can eat this,” Kayla said.

The girls are looking forward to their trip and are convinced they will bring home the trophy.

Contact Amy Quesinberry at AmyQ@orangeobserver.com.

See their recipe at OrangeObserver.com

Will my income keep pace with rising prices?

LONGEVITY RISK

Will my income last my entire lifetime?

At Latitudes we can show you how to design an inflation adjusted income for life. Don’t retire before reviewing our investment process that helps to protect you from the Three Big Risks.

Visit www.latitudesfinancial.com for more information

Advisory services offered through LPL Financial. Member FINRA/SIPC

240413

Rick DiBiasio CFP™

Founder, Latitudes Financial Strategies Registered Principal LPL Financial

120 West 6th Ave. Suite E Windermere, FL 34786 407-909-1033 1-877-385-3841 (toll free) www.latitudesfinancial.com 231246

10

THURSDAY, MAY 11, 2017

ARTS + CULTURE

All opera

WATCH THIS

‘The Rainmaker’ 8 p.m. Friday, May 12, Saturday, May 13, Friday, May 19, and Saturday, May 20; and 2 p.m. Sunday, May 14, at the Winter Garden Masonic Lodge, 230 W. Bay St., Winter Garden. Mimi’s Community Theater will put on this play, which is set in Depression-era America. It follows the story of a woman who has tried to find herself a husband and the man who arrives in town with promises of rain. Tickets cost $12. For more information, call (407) 864-5029.

CELEBRATE THIS

Mother’s Day Tea

Brittany Gaines

Zayonara Morales-Hale, who lives in Windermere, accidentally discovered she could sing opera while watching “America’s Got Talent.”

… all day A Windermere resident discovered her opera voice two years ago and hasn’t stopped singing since.

BRITTANY GAINES STAFF WRITER

Z

ayonara Morales-Hale never knew she could sing opera until two years ago.

She was at home watching “America’s Got Talent” on TV when she gave it a try. Her husband came rushing downstairs, thinking he was missing out on one of the show’s performances. Then, he realized it was his wife who was singing.

“He came down and said, ‘Oh my gosh, I didn’t know you sang opera,’” said Morales-Hale, who lives in Windermere. “But I didn’t know I had that voice in me.”

Ever since she was a young girl, Morales-Hale loved to sing. She sang in choirs at school, but never

had any formal vocal training. It was always just something she did for fun.

Now she’s trying to make it a career.

Morales-Hale tried out for “America’s Got Talent” several times during the last two years but never made it past the auditions.

Then on the radio one morning, she heard about a Spanish talent show called “Tengo Talento Mucho Talento” and decided to give it a try.

When she got a phone call telling her she had made it, she could hardly believe it. She was flown out to Los Angeles for the show, and made it through several rounds before getting eliminated SEE SINGER PAGE 12

“(My husband) came down and said, ‘Oh my gosh, I didn’t know you sang opera.’ But I didn’t know I had that voice in me.”

— Zayonara Morales-Hale

3:45 p.m., Thursday, May 11, at the Windermere Library, 530 Main St., Windermere. To celebrate Mother’s Day, the library will host an afternoon tea party that will include a variety of activities and crafts.

The event is for children ages 6 to 12 and their mothers. To register or for more information, call (407) 835-7323.

LISTEN TO THIS

Orlando Cabaret Festival

Saturday, May 13, to Sunday, May 21, at the Mad Cow Theatre, 54 W. Church St., Orlando. The 15th annual Orlando Cabaret Festival will include pop, jazz, Broadway, a cappella, and more. Showtimes include matinees, evening performances and lunchtime shows. The event will feature Orlando-native Davis Gaines, who is known for his work on Broadway. All shows will be performed in the Club Moo. Tickets start at $15 and can be purchased by calling the box office at (407) 297-8788.

12

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

|

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, MAY 11, 2017

Nehrling Gardens uncorks its annual fundraiser GABBY BAQUERO STAFF WRITER

Kassy Holmes, left, and garden caretaker Caroline Chomanics were proud of a display of original artwork inspired by a variety of scenes around the gardens.

Attendees of the Nehrling Gardens’ Corks, Caladiums & Canvases fundraising event April 30 had the opportunity to enjoy a sunset stroll through the gardens while munching on delicacies from several local food vendors.

Participants of the event sampled a variety of foods and wines from food stations dispersed throughout the gardens representing regions of the world where the plants of Nehrling Gardens originated.

Guests also enjoyed live music

by Keith Eaton and were invited to partake in a silent art auction of original works of art depicting picturesque scenes of the flora surrounding the historic home.

The art pieces were all created by plein air painters stationed throughout the gardens and home.

Chris and Ship Bush enjoyed a leisurely stroll around Nehrling Gardens and spotted California sunflowers.

ONLINE See more photos at

OrangeObserver.com Plein Air artist Karen Fleming worked on a piece featuring an old water pump and potted plants in the front lawn of the historic home.

Mark and Donna Sutton relaxed on a bench while sampling various foods and wines available throughout the garden’s featured food stations.

Windermere singer finds her voice that she’s too old to break into a career as an opera singer. The criticism is hard to take, she said, but she’s too passionate about singing to quit.

“You’re not too old when you want to do something,” she said.

In addition to the critics, she has asthma. Some days, she can feel the tightness in her chest, but when she sings, she can always belt out the high notes no matter what, she said.

She always wears a bracelet on her left wrist that spells out “Songbird.” It’s the nickname that her co-workers gave her when they found out about her singing.

Morales-Hale sings in three languages — English, Spanish and Italian. English and Spanish

were the easiest since she’s fluent in both languages. Italian was a bit trickier and required lots of assistance from Google Translate. When she’s preparing for a performance, she’s been known to memorize more than a dozen songs within two weeks.

“God has given me this gift,” she said.

But she said that she couldn’t have pursued her passion without the support of her parents, husband, daughters, family and friends.

“It’s hard, but I love it,” MoralesHale said. “I always have that hope that one day, I’ll be seen.”

MORALESHALES’S FAVORITES: FAVORITE OPERA SINGERS: n Andrea Bocelli n Sarah Brightman n Maria Callas FAVORITE SONGS: n “O mio Babbino” — Italian n “Cucurrucucú” — Spanish n “You’ll Never Walk Alone” — English

Contact Brittany Gaines at bgaines@orangeobserver.com.

Compassionate and Customized Care for Every Patient

•

Bio-Identical Hormones Minimally Invasive Surgery Testosterone Pellet Therapy Vaginal Rejuvenation Specializing in all aspects of women’s health!

•

Now Accepting New Patients

352-243-6686 Shelley C. Glover, M.D.

1725 E. Hwy 50, Ste B Clermont

Lena Holton, A.R.N.P.

238444

just before the semifinals.

“I didn’t make it (to the semifinals), but the experience was awesome,” she said.

Although Morales-Hale still dreams of making it onto “America’s Got Talent,” she loves to share her operatic talents with anyone who will listen.

“You tell me to sing, and I’ll open my mouth and sing for you,” she said.

She’s been known to break out in song at Publix, in restaurants and even once at Disney Springs.

“It takes a certain kind of person to do that — get up and sing in front of people,” said her husband, Rob Hale.

But as a mother of two who works full time at a bank, MoralesHale said finding time to practice singing is a challenge.

“I get in my studio time while driving my girls to school in the morning and driving to work,” she said. “That’s my studio — my car.”

She’s performed at events in Windermere, at her girls’ school, at Bella Tuscany Italian Restaurant and several assisted-living facilities.

“I want to give of my talents,” Morales-Hale said. “I love to see people smile.”

But the pursuit of her newfound talents isn’t without its challenges, and she’s already faced rejection several times over.

At 47, she’s been told by many

239406

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 11

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

Heroes, villains invade Horizon West for inaugural Flash Dash 5K

|

THURSDAY, MAY 11, 2017

13

CLERMONT PERFORMING ARTS CENTER

LET US

you in 2017!

THE FLYING KARAMAZOV BROTHERS

Superheroes showed off their costumes before cheering on the runners.

S

uperheroes and villains of all kinds descended on the Independence community Friday, May 5, ready to fight crime — or cause trouble — on the course of Bridgewater Middle School’s first Flash Dash 5K. More than 150 participants ran to beat the clock as Batman, Superman, Kylo Ren, a Ghostbuster, a Stormtrooper and others cheered them on. The race was a fundraiser for the school’s PTSO.

Expect the unexpected!

A family of little Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles decided to walk the last part of the course.

— DANIELLE HENDRIX

See them both &

SAVE!

Use prom “SpringCo o code mbo” to b uy tickets to BOTH sho ws and save 2 0% off you r total purc hase.

The excitement on these Flash lookalikes’ faces was evident as they neared the finish line.

ONLINE

ONE NIGHT ONLY!

See more photos at OrangeObserver.com

Saturday, May 13, 2017 7:30pm

Expect the unexpected!

One Night Only!

Saturday, May 20, 2017 • 8:00 p.m.

A crazy evening with the worldrenowned comedian and his colleagues Artie Fletcher and Bob Nelson.

*National Institutes of Health **U.S. Centers for Disease Control

231913

Safety First Swim School teaches children as young as six months old how to roll on their back and float in case they accidentally fall into water.

ext. 5 visit www.safetyfirstswim.com

“The Karamazovs deliver visual and verbal one-liners, all while creatively tossing about anything they can get their hands on!”

— the wall street journal

GALLAGHER JOKES ON YOU COMEDY TOUR

SWIM LESSONS REDUCE RISK OF DROWNING BY 88%* DROWNING IS THE LEADING CAUSE OF ACCIDENTAL DEATH IN CHILDREN 1-4 YEARS OLD.**

call 321-236-0240

Featuring four self-proclaimed eccentric lunatics, this wildly entertaining show is a zany, nonstop combination of laugh-out-loud comedy, hysterical theatrics and astonishing feats of juggling.

CLERMONT PERFORMING ARTS CENTER 352.394.4800 I www.ClermontPAC.com Box Office: 1 p.m. - 5 p.m. Tues, Thurs, Fri

235373

Olivia De Gracia received a medal for finishing the run.

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

|

THURSDAY, MAY 11, 2017

OrangeObserver.com

American Eagle Bed Bath & Beyond F21 RED Old Navy Payless Shoe Source Staples Target

240651 230651

14

JournalismX THURSDAY, MAY 11, 2017

CREATED BY FLORIDA FILM ACADEMY

Jake Cuomo

Social Safety Be careful what you share JOSH MCDONALD, 11

Social media drives the way we connect with one another. It helps users keep in touch with family, see friends and connect through major life milestones. It’s utilized throughout the community as

well, to start up buzz for new local businesses and promote local events.

Even the local Winter Garden police department gets involved with the public through social media. Officer Andrew Raphael of the Winter Garden police department relies on social media for lots of different community

Bowling causes, special events that the department hosts and even sometimes cases.

However, Officer Raphael also realizes the downsides to this social media expansion.

He’s noticed an increase in community members coming to the department with social media issues involving young students

HUNGRY? SHELBY BECK, 16

M

exican cuisine is in high demand in the United States.

According to ABC News, there were 38,000 Mexican restaurants in the United States and 1,145 in Florida alone in 2011.

Winter Garden is no exception to this craving for Mexican, housing a wide variety of unique Mexican restaurants, each with

their own taste and flavor.

Journalism X decided to go out and sample some of the Mexican restaurants Winter Garden has to offer.

First up on our list was Taquitos Jaliscos, a staple in the Winter Garden community.

Well-known for their prime location on Highway 50 and their delicious, homemade Mexican, it made sense for them to be our first stop. Inside, you get the

SEE SOCIAL SAFETY PAGE 16

Tatum Cempella

feeling of an old Mexican town.

It hosts a wide variety of murals depicting beautiful landscapes and traditional houses, some even including shingles on the roofs and windows drawn in. Their main attraction is dinner and, while their entrees are delicious and always worth a try, our favorites came from the appetizers and desserts. The highlight of our SEE HUNGRY PAGE 17

SARIKA RAO, 13, AND MENU HAMLETT, 12

As a young kid, you’ve been told that you could be anything you wished, from a doctor to a lawyer and anything in-between. One job that’s rarely considered in the multitude of options available is a bowling alley operator.

Well, Jay Hess, the owner of Winter Garden Bowl, and Kevin Long, the facility manager, have made these unique careers a reality for themselves.

It may sound odd, but working in a bowling alley takes more work than you think. Hess and Long, though, definitely know a thing or two about keeping an alley running as smooth as a greased bowling ball.

Winter Garden Bowl is a fun, family friendly environment where the community comes together. Hess and Long work hard to make sure the bowling alley maintains this environment and that every customer’s experience is a great one.

Wham! You’ve just made a strike! You see all the pins magically float back into their originally places, but one job that isn’t thought of is how the bowling pins get picked up and reset.

This is actually the work of the GS- 98, a 150 pound antique machine that circulates the bowling pins in and out.

While it may appear that every bowling alley has one of these magic machines, the truth is that there are only 20 GS-98 machines left in the world, and they’re located right here in Winter Garden! Aside from everything we see the team at Winter Garden Bowl do, there is so much more they take care of. They pay bills, manage food and beverage, condition the lanes, and clean the alleys.

Jay and Kevin say that their favorite part of the job is the people they meet. From the 1950s to now, Winter Garden Bowl will always be a staple in the community.

236692

Journalism X samples some of the Mexican restaurants Winter Garden has to offer.

over the years. Often, Officer Raphael encounters bullying situations as well as theft if users know families are out of town.

“Parents and students should treat social media very seriously.”

“I treat Facebook like my house, if I don’t let them into my house, I

17-SYSTEM-01651 West Orange Times- Journalism X 2017 - Someday Kid.indd 1

3/29/17 1:39 PM

16

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

|

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, MAY 11, 2017

Hungry?

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15

tasting experience was the queso con fundito. Served with warm tortillas, this medley of cheeses was truly life changing.

Your first bite is filled with a mild cheese flavor until you’re hit with that sharp cheddar flavor.

The cheddar flavor combines with the meat they mix into the queso to provide a truly savory experience. Once you finish your appetizers and entrees, there’s no need to rush off, the dessert at Taquitos Jaliscos is worth the wait. We went with the postre palenque which was vanilla ice cream with traditional mexican caramel sauce on top and surrounded by fried tortillas.

The ice cream and the caramel sauce was enough to send you into a sugar coma but, combined with the tortillas, your taste buds are brought into a whole other world. The crunchiness and the fried taste of the tortillas balanced out the ice cream and caramel sauce concoction and gave us a Mexican twist on an American classic.

Our next stop was Ocoee Taco Company. Here, we found more of a local food truck atmosphere.

The inside was smaller then the other restaurants we went to, but the spacious outside made up for the lack of seating indoors. The restaurant and its owners conveyed a strong sense of Mexican heritage through their traditional style food.

While there were the normal burritos, enchiladas, flautas, and, of course, tacos that were sure to make your mouth water, the dish that stood out to us was one of their traditional dishes.

The Huarache was a unique dish, one we didn’t see on any of the other restaurant’s menus. It started with a thick and doughy

flatbread. Then, it was covered with layers of crumbled, wellseasoned pork, lettuce, queso, traditional cheese, and tomatoes.

It was truly different then any dish we tasted anywhere else and worth a try. It gives the diner a peek into traditional Mexican cuisine.

Our final stop was at a local hidden gem of the Winter Garden community, Los Portales. This restaurant is hidden inside of a Mexican grocery market! Upon entering the store, you see and smell the buffet they have set up all day with their fresh food. Looking left, you can spot the aisles full of international groceries. Looking to your right, though, showed us the real reason we came. The restaurant is full of dark wood, bright murals, and inviting smells. The restaurant also specialized in a new aspect of Mexican food we hadn’t considered, breakfast.

We tried the Huevos Rancheros to get a taste of their breakfast specialities. It started with a thin flour tortilla at the bottom, followed by fried egg and

salsa. This dish had the perfect combination of sweet from the tortilla and salty from the egg and salsa. In addition, the egg gave it a very light and airy feel.

Here, too, is also where we got a taste of our favorite burrito out of the three restaurants. Their Ponchos Burrito was packed to the max with flavorful meat mixed with caramelized onions, cheese, refried beans, rice, and guacamole. It was difficult to get your mouth around the whole burrito. In addition, to both breakfast and dinner, the restaurant served up some killer dessert. Their churros provided us with a Mexican classic that we all knew. The crunchy, fried dough topped with cinnamon sugar was a dessert lovers dream. The condensed milk and powdered sugar sauce mixed with the crunchy churro took your mouth on a journey like no other.

With all the choices, it’s not easy to decide where to eat first!

Mothers Day

MENU HAMLETT, 12 AND ROBERTO VARGAS, 11

Sometimes we take our moms for granted or don’t always appreciate them, even when they do so much for us. As Mother’s Day approaches, we’d like to thank every mom in our community for being the super star that she is.

Jeane Boast, a mom of 3 boys and the Director of Marketing for Chick-Fil-A at the Ocoee and Winter Garden locations is a prime example of the hardworking moms in our community. She does so much for her family as well as balancing her job.

A normal day for Boast all starts at 6:00 AM when she makes sure her son’s are prepared for school, lets the dog out and God forbid she forgets to turn on the coffee pot. She drives her youngest to school, comes back home to pay the bills, emails her

Social Safety CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15

don’t let them into my Facebook”, he recommends.

Officer Raphael feels there should be an age restriction enforced by parents when it comes to social media.

Education Many people are choosing a different route for their child’s education.

TATUM CEMPELLA, 11

Education is a part of life and while most of us grew up in a traditional classroom setting, school options are beginning to change, allowing many people to choose a different route for their child’s education.

Sarika Rao is one of those students. She’s currently enrolled in Florida Virtual School or FLVS, an online education program offered through the state of Florida. As a 13-year-old getting ready to complete 8th grade, Sarika decided that virtual school would be the best outlet for her because of her fast pace and desire for self reliance. Sarika has plans to return to the traditional classroom for high school as she does miss the social interaction with peers and teachers.

Paola Vargas, a teacher who’s taught at FLVS for five years, is well versed in online education.

She, like Sarika, misses the face to face interaction traditional school offers. Vargas points out that she doesn’t know what most of her students look like. While there is a face time option or live lessons students can join, it doesn’t necessarily feel the same as a classroom setting.

However, FLVS offers a more flexible schedule for both teachers and students and she strives to make a connection

Tatum Cempella

with her students by talking over the phone to review material, how most communication in online school occurs.

“The review calls come very often because each of my students work at their own pace”, shares Vargas.

Each student also has to tell their teacher if they’re going on vacation or will not be available.

“This normally leads to personal stories and interaction with teachers”. explains Vargas.

To fill the lack of social interaction, parents put together events for local students.

Face-to-face interactions is not something West Orange High School Teacher Jim Baker lacks in his classroom, though. In fact, he believes that these interactions are key in his classroom. Baker puts time and effort into his elaborate lesson plans in an effort to impact each individual student. He also tweaks them after each period.

“The first period class is kind of like my Guinea Pig class”, Baker explains.

Baker likes to take notes on how each lesson works as he strives to make sure each student understands the material.

“I would go to the ends of the earth to help you understand”,

Baker tells his students at the beginning of each school year, “but one thing I cannot give up is time”.

Meaning Baker wants every child in his class to walk away without confusion while he still remains dedicated to his family.

This can sometimes be a struggle as the long hours keep him away from the house and if that’s not enough, he also plans his lessons at home.

The strict schedule of the classroom is one of the reasons why Baker considered switching to virtual instruction as well.

While the schedule tempted him, he would miss interacting with his students.

Baker sometimes takes groups of students to historical spots outside of the U.S. to expand their thoughts on history. All the while, he follows his dream, to make an impact like his teachers made an impact on him.

Yet no matter how hard teachers try, some students are just not made for the traditional classroom setting or sometimes even virtual school. Some students just think differently and an alternative form of education is the outlet that fits their learning style.

Meribeth Huebner founded “The R School”, to help students with learning differences because of her experience with education.

When she was in 3rd grade, she was put into remedial classes for a poor test grade despite the fact that she was in the gifted program. “The more they remediated me”, Huebner shares, “the more I drifted.” In 5th grade, the school had decided to pull her

out of the gifted program, but her mother stepped in and requested a re-take. Once the re-take was complete, they found Huebner was excelling in reading but behind in math. Huebner’s parents hired a tutor who identified Huebner’s learning differences and tweaked the lessons to appeal to her. By 7th grade, she was doing high school math.

Years later, Huebner is sitting in a parent/teacher conference being told that her son is far behind the other students, having similar problems to those of her own childhood. Huebner realized that this system of education was just not the one.

“A child doesn’t just get better when they are told over and over that they aren’t good enough and they need to catch up”.

Huebner knew that she couldn’t just hire another tutor, she knew she had to help more children than just her own. And so the R School was born.

Now, the R school helps children with learning differences learn the same subjects in their own way. Every child gets customized assignments to help them understand the material.

Students ages 6-14 years old can be enrolled at the R School with a location opening up soon in Winter Garden.

In the end, the true pride for Huebner is seeing her son come home smiling, free of confusion, and eager to start his homework.

No matter what educational route you opt for, your end goal is always the same, for your child to succeed to the best of their ability.

team members, does the laundry, prepares dinner, and meets up with her marketing team. It may sound unbelievable but she still tries to carve out time for herself like working out or volunteering.

Then, it’s time to pick up the kids, eat and get some rest. Finally, she rewinds and repeats because a day in the life of a mom never stops.

“The number one thing to remember as being a mom is that nobody is perfect. Be present and don’t worry about being perfect,” says Boast. “You’re always going to mess up or will always think you could have done something better, but you have to decide what is most important in that moment and enjoy it.”

No matter their job or responsibilities, moms are our everyday superheroes. So, we at Journalism X, would like to send out our thanks to the moms of our community for having and succeeding at the hardest job of all, being a mom.

Kids of all ages should still have parental guidance and should always share passwords and logins with their parents. Social media isn’t going away but learning how to manage restrictions as a family is crucial and could help to keep your family safe as social media expands our world.

SARIKA RAO, 13, AND MIA ADATIA, 11

The face is a major part of our identity. It’s how people recognize us, how we are identified. Local Winter Garden resident, Tifinie Boutot has turned the face into an art form through her work as face painter.

Tifinie started out painting faces at theme parks all over the world. Working at Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, SeaWorld and even working for a short time in Japan. She’s moved on to teaching this art form at Florida Film Academy through her special effects make up class. She teaches face paint, prosthetics, how to use make up tools and how to photograph your make up.

Boutot challenges her students to create their own personal looks and to think outside the box.

“Don’t stop once you start,” Boutot advises, “we all have our breakthrough. We find our style…it might just take longer for some people. Have faith that your style and creativity will breakthrough at the end.”

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

Celebrating

|

17

THURSDAY, MAY 11, 2017

The First Academy

PRESCHOOL-GRADE 12

A CHRIST-CENTERED, COLLEGE-PREPARATORY SCHOOL

Athletics

With 100% of varsity teams advancing to regional tournament play through the winter season, our student athletes have set the standard for competitive excellence in Central Florida.

FHSAA Championships and Honors

Girls Volleyball Class 4A State Champions (Girls Golf Class 1A State Runner-Up (Currently 2nd Place in the FHSAA All-Academic Program standings (Girls Soccer won FACA All-Academic Team (

Individual and Coaching Honors

Brynna DeLuzio, Volleyball - Dairy Farmers Class 4A Player of the Year, Under Armor All-American (Bryson Richards Jr., Football - FACA District Player of the Year (Chaundee Brown Jr., Basketball - Dairy Farmers 5A Player of the Year, Florida Gatorade Player of the Year, Orlando Sentinel 1st Team All Central Florida (Cash Case, Baseball, District 11 FACA Player of the Year (Haley Malone, Volleyball - Dairy Farmers Class 4A Coach of the Year (Leroy Kinard, Football - FACA District Coach of the Year (Chris Mayberry, Basketball - FABC Class 4A Coach of the Year & FACA District Coach of the Year (Scott Grove, Baseball - FACA 4A District Coach of the Year (

Fine Arts

Performing Arts

Six students were honored at the Florida State Thespian Competition in Tampa, including two superior ratings for performances from Hannah Rose Cash and Mackenzie Wadsworth. Jack Elkins and Elliott Moffit earned a Superior with Distinction honor at the FBA State Solo & Ensemble Competition for their Mallet Duet; Guilherme Silva Superior with Distinction, Snare Drum Solo; Elliot Moffit - Superior with Distinction, Marimba Solo.

Lower School Mother Son Bootcamp

College Recruiting

Our student athletes continue to be recruited by the best college programs in the country. the following students have committed to play intercollegiate athletics: Brynna DeLuzio, Volleyball, University of Colorado; Chaundee Brown Jr., Basketball, Wake Forest University; Malik William, Basketball, University of New Hampshire; Brooke Richards, Lacrosse, East Carolina University; Morgan Baxendale, Golf, Vanderbilt University; Kelsey Zeng, Golf, Stanford University; Cash Case, Baseball, University of Notre Dame; Bryson Richards, Football, Stetson University; Francis Ramirez, Softball, Miami Dade College; Vincent Merenda, Football, Washington and Jefferson College; Marshall Hilaman, Football, Southeastern University; Aaron Wright, Soccer, Alderson Broaddus University; Jaclynn Kelly, Soccer, The Kings College; Melisa Mason, Track and Field, North Greenville University; Cameron Pearson, Baseball, Fisher College; Nick Mackedon, Baseball, Trinity Baptist College; Gregory Summers II, Basketball, The United States Naval Academy; Devyn Taht, Lacrosse, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University; Grace Ebbesmeyer, Lacrosse, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

Visual Arts

Seven TFA Middle and Upper School students received awards at the 2017 Winter Park Sidewalk Art Festival. These honors included 8th grader Lauren Spalding’s 2D Best in Show Award for a relief print entitled, “Praying Mantis”; Jiuwell Sun Zhou (11th), Award of Distinction 2D; Sylvia Lin (10th), Award of Distinction 3D.

Student athletes committed to play college athletics

Enrolling Now for 2017-2018 407.206.8602

www.TheFirstAcademy.org

239867

The First Academy’s production of “You Can’t Take it With You”

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

|

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, MAY 11, 2017

Celebrating

The First Academy

PRESCHOOL-GRADE 12

A CHRIST-CENTERED, COLLEGE-PREPARATORY SCHOOL

CLASS OF 2017

National Merit Qualifiers: Caitlin Barker and Hamilton Murrah National Merit Finalist: Jessica Meena Valedictorian: Jessica Meena Salutatorian: Bailey Higgins Lower School Father Daughter Dance

TFA faculty donated items for the 3rd grade students at Millennia Elementary School to encourage them as they took their first Florida Standards Assessments! Millennia Elementary School is a Title I school that our students have partnered with in the last year to provide food donations to help those in need. Thank you to our Juniors, Jessica Lader, Annie Murrah, and Maclay Ramsey for taking charge of this great opportunity to serve those in our community!

The competition was fierce at this year’s Humanities Scholar Bowl.

Congratulations to Caitlin Barker for Honorable Mention and received a $50 cash prize. Melanie Pearce took third place and received a $1,000 Scholarship and $100 cash prize. Jessica Meena placed second and received the $2,000 Scholarship and $300 cash prize. The grand prize went to Gabriel Pendas who earned the $3,000 Scholarship and $600 cash prize. The Social Science Department is very proud of all of the finalists who participated this year.

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR SENIOR THESIS WINNERS! Written Winners Presentation Winners 1st place - Bailey Higgins, $5000 1st place - Jaclynn Kelly, $5000 2nd place - Jessica Meena, $2500 2nd place - Sarah Beth Spraggins, $2500 3rd place - Kelsey Zeng, $1250 3rd place - Scotty Michael, $1250 4th place - Chelsea Han, $500 4th place - Lauren Connell, $500 5th place - Caitlin Barker, $250 5th place - Alex Li, $250 Honorable Mention - Sage Ramsammy, $250 Honorable Mention - Ani Rabito, $250

Schedule Your Tour Today 407.206.8602 TheFirstAcademy.org

239868

18

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

WEST ORANG E HISTO RY

THESE OLD TIMES

|

19

THURSDAY, MAY 11, 2017

FROM THE WINTER GARDEN HERITAGE FOUNDATION

75 years ago

Dot Moore was back at her desk at Gregory Insurance after a tonsillectomy.

A Navy Relief dance is being given at the City Auditorium.

According to Mayor Frank Roper, the dance will be one of the most outstanding social events of the season.

45 years ago

35 years ago

Melodye Hendrix, of Winter Garden, has three photographs on display in the Learning Resources Center at Valencia Community College.

THROWBACK THURSDAY The Winter Garden Times MAY 12, 1977 Long before the big-box home-improvement stores such as Lowe’s and Home Depot, West Orange had Scotty’s Builders Supply. The retailer was located at the southwest corner of West Colonial Drive and Bluford Avenue and was the place to find construction equipment, products and services.

This year, we celebrate the original Lakeview High School building’s 90th anniversary. Constructed in 1927 on 17 acres donated by pioneer Luther Fuller Tilden, it was built to replace the too-small Oakland-Winter Garden School that stood on Tildenville School Road.

When it was constructed in the Collegiate Gothic style three-tenths of a mile from the south shore of Lake Apopka, the adjacent landscape was surrounded by vegetable fields and stands of pine. Beloved by a succession of graduating classes, it served West Orange through the class of 1975, when West Orange High School was built south of the city to accommodate a rapidly

239381

FROM THE ARCHIVES growing student population. Lakeview was then converted to a junior high, and in 1986, it became the middle school that stands today. A poignant reminder of the building’s beginnings, Lakeview High School can be seen carved in the frieze above the front entry.

Members of the Class of 1928, front row, from left: Mildred Harnage Sayer, Edna McKnight, Vivian Tyndall, Dora Raffo and Gladys Davis; middle row, from left: Edna White, Lessie Denham, Norma Mann, Louise Bronson and Bernice Tyler; and back row, from left: Gordon Connell, Lewis Baird, George Parrot, Clarence Willis and Fred Tilden.

30 years ago

The landmark Withers-Maguire House in Ocoee was named to the National Register of Historic Places. Betty Ervine is president of the Ocoee Historical Commission.

A 12-foot, 800-pound alligator was captured in Lake Down

by Terry Parlier, of the Florida Game and Fish Commission, and Ocoee resident Tim Patterson. The gator was tied and subdued, dragged behind a boat through the chain of lakes to the Orange County Sports-

IN WINTER GARDEN

407-654-3037 www.stoneybrookweststorage.com

Selby Burch and Stanley and Sheree Dollen, all of Winter Garden, were honored at the April Sun ’N Fun in Lakeland.

Burch received the prestigious Grand Champion WW2 Warbird award for his restored P-51 Mustang warbird. The Dollens took home the Outstanding Antique Aircraft award for their 1941 Meyers O.T.W. bi-plane.

59 59 59 59 59 59

Exam & X-rays Exam & X-rays Exam & X-rays Exam & X-rays

(Reg. $297) *Offer (Reg. Expires$297) 12/31/17. *Offer Includes Expires (Reg. $297) *Offer Expires 12/31/17.

12/31/17. Includes Includes (Reg. $297) *Offer (Reg. Expires$297) 12/31/17. *Offer Includes Expires 12/31/17.

Includes (Reg. $297) *Offer Expires 12/31/17.

Includes exam, cleaning & (Reg. x-rays. exam, New cleaning Patients & x-rays.

Only.

New Patients Only. exam, cleaning & x-rays.

New Patients Only.

(Reg. $297) *Offer Expires 12/31/17. $297) Includes *Offer Expires 12/31/17.

Includes (Reg. $297) *Offer (Reg. Expires $297) 12/31/17. *Offer Includes Expires 12/31/17.

Includes exam, cleaning & (Reg. x-rays. exam, New cleaning Patients & x-rays.

Only.

New Patients Only. $297) *Offer Expires 12/31/17.

Includes (Reg. $297) *Offer Expires 12/31/17.

Includes exam, cleaning &already x-rays.

New Patients Only. *Offers not to be applied toward *Offers account not balances toPatients be applied or dental toward services account balances delivered or dental services already delivered exam, cleaning & x-rays. exam, New cleaning Only. & x-rays.

New Patients Only. exam, cleaning & x-rays. exam, New cleaning Patients &already x-rays.

Only.

New Patients Only. *Offers not toinbe be applied toward account balances or dental dental services already delivered exam, cleaning & x-rays.

New Patients Only. *Offers not toinbeconjunction applied toward account not balances to applied or dental toward services account balances delivered or services already delivered and not with*Offers any other and not offers, conjunction discounts or with reduced-fee any other plans. offers, discounts or reduced-fee plans.

exam, cleaning & x-rays. New Patients Only.

*Offers not to be applied toward account *Offers balances not orto dental bein applied services toward already account delivered balances or dental services already delivered not to be applied toward account balances or dental services already delivered and not conjunction with any other offers, discounts or reduced-fee plans. and not in conjunction with*Offers any other and not offers, in conjunction discounts or with reduced-fee any other plans. offers, discounts or reduced-fee plans. and not not intoconjunction withtoward any other offers, and discounts not or reduced-fee withtoward plans. any other offers, discounts reduced-fee plans. *Offers be applied *Offers account not balances be applied or dental services account already balances delivered or dental services *Offers not tointo beconjunction applied toward account balances or dentalor services already delivered already delivered and not in conjunction with any other offers, discounts or reduced-fee plans. not intoconjunction withtoward any other offers, discounts or discounts reduced-fee not beconjunction applied account balances or dentalplans. services already delivered and not in conjunction with*Offers anyand other and not offers, in discounts or with reduced-fee any other plans. offers, or reduced-fee plans.

and not in conjunction with any other offers, discounts or reduced-fee plans.

NewNew Patients New Patients Welcome!

Welcome!

New Patients Patients Welcome!

Welcome!

New Patients Welcome!

New Patients Welcome!

NewNew Patients Welcome!

Patients Welcome!

Charles Pike, Charles DMD Pike, DMD

ADV

ADV

www.AllAspectsDental.com Call www.AllAspectsDental.com today! 321-222-4401

VADV ADV

VADV ADV

ADV

301 321-222-4401 S.today!

Tubb St.321-222-4401 | Oakland, FL 34760 www.AllAspectsDental.com Call today!

Call 301 321-222-4401 S. Tubb St.321-222-4401 | Oakland, FL 34760 Call www.AllAspectsDental.com today!

Call today! www.AllAspectsDental.com Call today!

321-222-4401

240010

General Dentist General Dentist 301 Tubb 301 St. S. || www.AllAspectsDental.com Oakland, Tubb St. FL || Oakland, 34760 FL 34760 301 S. S.www.AllAspectsDental.com Tubb 301 St. S. Oakland, Tubb St. FL Oakland, 34760 34760 General Dentist FL Call today!

321-222-4401 301 S. Tubb 301 St. S. | Oakland, Tubb St. FL | Oakland, 34760 FL 34760 301 S. Tubb St. | Oakland, FL 34760 Call today!

Call321-222-4401 today! 321-222-4401

239411

Charles Pike, DMD Charles Pike, DMD Pike, DMD General Charles Dentist General Dentist Charles Charles Pike, DMD Pike, DMD General Dentist Charles Charles Pike, DMD Pike, DMD Dentist General Dentist 301 S. TubbGeneral St. 301 | Oakland, S. Tubb FL St. 34760 | Oakland, FL 34760 Charles Pike, DMD

Charles Pike, DMD General Dentist General Dentist 301 S. Tubb St.321-222-4401 | Oakland, FL 34760 Call today!

Call 321-222-4401 today!

General Dentist

IN OCOEE

407-905-7898 www.maguireroadstorage.com

20 years ago

Cleaning, $ Cleaning, Cleaning, Cleaning, $ Cleaning, Exam Exam $Cleaning, Cleaning, Cleaning, Exam & & X-rays X-rays Exam & & X-rays X-rays

6/30/17.

stoneybrookwestss@cfl.rr.com

man’s Club on Lake Sheen, loaded onto a trailer and taken to a reptile farm to live.

Experience Dentistry at aaLevel!

Whole New New Level!

Level!

Experience Dentistry Experience at a Dentistry Whole New at Whole

6/30/17.

Call Today!

The Winter Garden Heritage Foundation, which seeks to preserve our heritage and architecture while creating new cultural experiences, is celebrating its third decade with the debut of its new History Research and Education Center.

Experience Dentistry at aa Whole Whole New Level!

Level!

Experience Experience Dentistry at Dentistry aa Whole New at Level!

New Experience Experience Dentistry at Dentistry Whole New at a Whole Level!

New Level!

ExperienceExperience Dentistry atDentistry a Whole New at a Whole Level! New Level!

$$ $

So local, it feels like your garage!

maguireroadstorage@cfl.rr.com

239377

Bob Ficquette, of Winter Garden, pitched two no-hitters and was a big factor in the Saints clinching the Class A, District 5 baseball championship.

Lining up for a final rehearsal of the ski show set for the Sportsman’s Club were Windermere Wake Watchers Kayla Smith, Kay Geitgey, Diane Geitgey, Jennifer Powell and Keeley Powell.

You. Your Neighbors. Your Neighborhood.

ADVERTISE OR SUBSCRIBE TODAY! Call us at 407-656-2121

dvertiseNow@OrangeObserver.com or Subscribe@OrangeObserver.com

Email us at A

20

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

|

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, MAY 11, 2017

BOSS BABY

PG

FRI: 4:30P, 7:30P, 9:55P SAT: 1:30P, 4:30P, 7:30P, 9:55P SUN: 1:30P, 4:30P, 7:30P MON-WED: 4:30P, 7:30P THURS: 4:30P

Derby Day delights in Winter Garden

M

FATE OF THE FURIOUS PG-13

1575 MAGUIRE RD. (1 BLK. OFF HWY. 50)

www.westorange5.com

407-877-8111

“Homemade Sandwiches and Snacks Available”

239567

X

MAGUIRE RD.

W. HWY 50

General $8.00 Child (2-12) $6.00 Senior (60+) $6.00 Matinee (before 5pm) $6.00 3D is an additional $2.00 per ticket

THESE SHOWTIMES FOR:

FRIDAY, May 12 thru THURSDAY, May 18 THE BEST MOVIE VALUE IN WO COUNTY

iniature horses Rommy, Rascal and Savannah were the stars of the show Saturday, May 6, during Fuzzy Therapy Miniature Horses’s Derby Day fundraiser.

Held at Tack Boutique in Winter Garden, the event featured a hobby horse race, shopping at local stores, raffles, face painting, photo opportunities, a chance to create a derby hat and more.

The goal was to raise money to purchase a horse trailer.

FRI: 3:50P, 6:50P, 9:55P SAT: 12:50P, 3:50P, 6:50P, 9:55P SUN: 12:50P, 3:50P, 6:50P MON-THURS: 3:50P, 6:50P

GUARDIANS GALAXY 2 PG-13

FRI: 4:00P, 4:45P, 7:00P, 8:00P, 10:00P SAT: 1:00P, 1:20P, 4:00P, 4:45P, 7:00P, 8:00P, 10:00P SUN: 1:00P, 1:20P, 4:00P, 5:00P, 7:00P MON-THUR: 4:00P, 4:45P, 7:00P

KING ARTHUR

PG-13

FRI: 4:10P, 7:10P, 10:00P SAT: 1:10P, 4:10P, 7:10P, 10:00P SUN: 1:10P, 4:10P, 7:10P MON-THURS: 4:10P, 7:10P

SNATCHED

R

ALIEN: COVENANT

R

FRI: 4:40P, 7:40P, 10:00P SAT: 1:40P, 4:40P, 7:40P, 10:00P SUN: 1:40P, 4:40P, 7:40P MON-THUR: 4:40P, 7:40P THURS: 7:20P

Blair M. Johnson

Christian and Charlie Yamashita were excited to meet the miniature horses.

— DANIELLE HENDRIX

Attorney At Law • 407-656-5521 425 S. Dillard St. • Winter Garden, FL 34787

Catherine Schoolcraft helped Alora Katz make her very own derby hat.

Cheryl and Aaron Pieper loved meeting Toby, a therapy dog from Read to Sydney.

235947

• Wills/Advance Directives • Estates • Corporation/LLC • Commercial transactions • Landlord/Tenant • Real estate: Contracts, Closings, Short Sales, Deed in Lieu • And other matters Proudly serving West Orange County for over 36 years.

ONLINE

www.blairjohnsonlaw.com

IN

See more at OrangeObserver.com

CLASS of 2017

NE DE W | PE A ND SSI E N ST E TL D IV & IN G

This special section will be published

May 25, 2017 Including class photos, lists of graduates and greeting ads.

Greeting Ads deadline: May 18, 2017

1 Box Ad $75 color

2 Box Ad $125 color

NAME

Schedule your model tour today!

Our models are open and tours are available every Sunday.

Spots are limited so contact us today!

Ad actual size: 2 column x 3.5”

Ad actual size: 1 column x 3.5”

(407) 654-3530 SALES CENTER AT THE CORNER OF DANIELS ROAD AND FETTERBRUSH BLVD.

Emailing your Ad? Please send picture and greeting together in SAME email, and include your phone number. Save picture with student’s FULL NAME please.

E-mail to: advertisenow@orangeobserver.com 407-656-2121

Student Name:

420 Roper Road Winter Garden, FL 34787

Greeting:

School: Assisted Living Facility License # Pending

R E S O R T- S T Y L E S E N I O R L I V I N G

Picture Attached

Mail to:

Picture Emailed

Observer Media Group 720 S. Dillard St. Winter Garden, FL 34787

Run w/o Picture 239993

— Full-sized, stacked washer/dryer in each apartment — Full kitchen in Independent Living — Large floor plans with 1/1.5 and 2/2 floor plans available — Monthly rental (no buy-in) — Chef-Inspired Meals

NAME Greeting Up to 20 words

239106

At Sonata West, we offer the largest senior living apartments in west Orange County - that’s huge!

You can choose from 78 spacious independent and 35 assisted living units amid 139,000 square feet of thoughtfully designed and harmonious living space.

Greeting Up to 40 words

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

21

THURSDAY, MAY 11, 2017

|

Innovation Montessori breaks ground in Ocoee Construction has begun on the new Innovation Montessori Ocoee, and to celebrate the start of construction, leaders of the school held a groundbreaking ceremony Friday, April 28.

“It’s really amazing what they’re doing here and what’s going to happen here,” said Ocoee Mayor Rusty Johnson. “We’re so pleased to have them here in our city.”

The school, previously known as the Montessori of Winter Garden Charter School, obtained 18 acres in Ocoee to build a new campus because its old campus in Winter Garden could no longer provide the space needed to grow the school.

OCOEE

239385

— BRITTANY GAINES

Photos by Brittany Gaines

Students from the school, currently located in Winter Garden, wrapped hearts around a live oak tree during the ceremony.

Students from the school made notes to hang on the trees being preserved at the new campus.

Ocoee Mayor Rusty Johnson attended the ceremony and expressed his excitement for the project.

Pat Sharr Realty

HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY

407-656-7947

Broker/Owner

407-948-1326 patsharr@aol.com

www.patsharr.com

BUYING A HOME? SELLING YOUR HOME?

PE SA ND LE IN G! WHY PAY RENT???

CARE FREEE LIVING AT IT’S BEST!!! This townhouse features 3 BDRMS. 2.5 BA. With living room, dining area, kitchen all appliances staying including washer & dryer!!!

Screened and covered patio, lake access, community pool and tennis courts!!! Conveniently located to all major highways, shopping and schools. All maintenance on outside is taken care of, no more mowing grass!!! Priced to sell and asking only $135,000...

JUS TS WELCOME HOME TO LAKEFRONT LIVING!!!

PANORAMIC VIEWS OF JOHNS LAKE! Step inside and be Amazed, IMMACULATE condition! 4 bdrms, 4 baths (3 way split plan) living room, dining room, family room, office, kitchen with ALL STANLESS STEEL appliances, GRANITE island and countertops, 42” cabinets, wine refrigerator, walk-in pantry and breakfast nook.

Upstairs BONUS room w/full bath, GRANITE bar, pool table, bar stools, entertainment center w/tv and GORGEOUS view of the lake, DOCK with 1 boat lift and 2 jet ski lifts! 3 A/C systems. This was the model home with an air conditioned garage. Beautiful landscaped yard, irrigation is from the lake! Asking only $725,000.

407.654.6767

JUST LISTED-4 DAYS!!!

239413

SELLER MOTIVATED!!! BRING OFFER!!!

Over 3300 sq.ft. of living in this 5 bdr 4 ba!!! Step inside to this tiled living and dining room. 4 bdr 3 ba on first floor, 1 bdr 1 ba upstairs off of bonus room. Master bedroom has master bath consisting of garden tub, separate vanities and shower. Kitchen has granite counter tops, 42” cabinets. All kitchen appliances and all window coverings stay!

Breakfast bar, breakfast nook overlooking the covered lanai. Child proof family room where everyone can “live a little”. Just off the kitchen area is the stairway leading to the bonus room, perfect for guests!!! Grab your golf cart and go downtown to W.G., Walk to the W. Orange Trail. 3 car garage, great location!!! Asking only $376,000

SO

SO LD

12664 W. Colonial Dr. Winter Garden, FL 34787

Step inside and be amazed at all this home has to offer. Home has just been completely painted inside, kitchen features all appliances, granite counter tops, 42 inch cabinets, built in desk, breakfast nook over looking patio, fenced back yard and lake. Family room is large and great for entertaining with sliding glass doors leading to the patio and large fenced yard. This home also features all custom shutters for all window coverings and sliding glass doors. Split bedroom plan and 2 Master Bedrooms, Master Bedroom 1 has jetted garden tub separate shower with dual sinks. Master bedroom 2 has shower no tub also is pool plan with access to the back yard. Office/Den for the home professional with wall mounted Sony TV that stays! Intercom system, central vacuum system throughout the house. Super convenient location with access to turnpike, 429 & 408. All you have to do here is bring your furniture. Gated Community! Asking Only $369,000

LD !

!

www.stag1.com

FANTASTIC LAKEFRONT VIEW IS JUST ONE OF THE BENEFITS OF THIS 3 BDRM/3BA ONE STORY HOME.

PE SA ND LE IN G!

OL D!

Better Vehicles.

Better Values.

TO ALL THE MOTHER’S GRANDMOTHER’S, GREAT GRANDMOTHER’S AND GREAT-GREAT GRANDMOTHER’S!!!

I WISH YOU A WONDERFUL MOTHER’S DAY!

PE SA ND LE IN G!

CALL ME TODAY!

239365

MultiMillion Dollar Producer

PAT SHARR

HONEY STOP THE CAR!!! YOU WON’T BELIEVE YOUR EYES, THIS 4 BDRM., 2 BA. IS A BEAUTY!!! LIVING ROOM W/BRICK CORNER FIREPLACE, WOOD FLOORING, DINING AREA, FAMILY ROOM, SPLIT BEDROOM PLAN. KITCHEN FEATURES GRANITE, WOOD CABINETS, STAINLESS STEEL APPLIACES THAT STAY ALSO WINDOW COVERING STAY!!! PLUS A COVERED AND SCREENED LANAI, SPARKLING POOL/HTD SPA AREA THAT IS 46x24, OH YES, NO HOA!!! MINUTES FROM DOWNTOWN W.G. MAJOR HIGHWAYS AND W.O. TRAIL. ASKING ONLY $290,000

JUST LISTED!!!

2 STORY, 5 BDRM. 4 BA. Gated community, screened paver lanai sparkling pool/spa, privacy fenced back yard!!! This home is a knockout!!! Formal living, dining and family rm with a open floor plan!!!

Kitchen is a decorators dream, all kitchen appliances stay, many built ins, island, pantry and breakfast nook over looking lanai. This home also features a Butlers Pantry. Master bedroom on the first floor plus 3 other bedrooms one of which is being used as an office. Upstairs you will find a Bonus room, Media room, guest bedroom and full bath. Minutes from Fowler’s Grove, 429, turnpike and 408. Asking Only $489,000.

22

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

|

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, MAY 11, 2017

For a donation, participants could paint a donated school bus however they pleased.

Sophia and Frankie Hass decorated rocks at one of the tents.

Purple proves powerful at Winter Garden Relay

W

ith a theme of “Cruisin’ for a Cure,” this year’s Relay for Life of West Orange took over the track and field at Lakeview Middle to contribute to finding a cure.

Held on Saturday, May 6, the event featured screenings of “Cars” and “Cars 2,” a Diaper Derby, water-balloon toss and more. Participants could decorate river rocks and luminarias, paint a donated school bus, indulge in food and sweets, listen to live music and more.

Event organizer Amy Nichols, second from right, enjoyed having her family and friends out at the event with her. From left: Chris Hain, Elizabeth Watkins, Lucy Nichols, Amy Nichols and Jason Nichols.

— DANIELLE HENDRIX

Brogan Regan — the event’s honored survivor — decided to pick up a water balloon of his own.

ONLINE

See more photos at

The Ocoee Fire Department team had a blast grilling out. From left: Lt. James Kelly, Jacob Kelly, Fire Marshal John Sorenson, Chief John Miller, Administrative Assistant Alicia Peiffer and Fire Inspector Stosh Kuczynski.

Daniel Weisbecker, a member of Team Troy, hitched a ride in his wagon.

PET OF THE WEEK A broken nail doesn’t hinder Sophie’s playful spirit!

Sponsored by...

Your Body in Balance

...your journey to beautification and rejuvenation starts here The following treatments are offered: • ThermiVaTM (Vaginal Rejuvenation) • ThermiSmooth Face • Dysport • Laser Treatments • Chemical Peels • IPL Photofacials • Facials • Hair Removal • Vibradermabrasions • Dermal Fillers • Waxing

IT’S ALL ABOUT THERMI! Lets heat you up. . . both inside and out

(no needles, no surgery, no downtime)

• ThermiVaTM (Vaginal Rejuvenation) • ThermiSmooth Face

ADDITIONAL 10% OFF any current specials with coupon

239394

Expires 4/15/2017

352-243-6686

1725 E. HWY 50, Ste B • Clermont

238439

If you would like your pet to be considered for the “Pet of the Week”... email your furry friend’s photo to: Contest@OrangeObserver.com

OrangeObserver.com

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

NEVA BRICE ALLIGOOD, 104, of Winter Garden, died Sunday, April 2, 2017. Baldwin Fairchild Funeral Home, Winter Garden.

GENE LAMAR ANDERSON, 57, of Winter Garden, died Sunday, April 2, 2017. DeGusipe Funeral Home and Crematory, Ocoee.

test that he entered the Army as a sergeant and subsequently rose to the frank of first lieutenant, achieving medals for American Theatre Service, Good Conduct, WWII Victory and the Meritorious Unit Award.

He was involved in his communities through various groups such as coaching Little League, the Masonic Lodge of McKenzie Alabama, Kiwanis of Sebring and Retired Teachers Association. He served his church faithfully teaching Sunday school for more than 50 years, serving as a deacon, choir member and even driving the bus when needed.

It was once said he could move easily between presenting himself as “a country bumpkin or a Philadelphia lawyer, depending on what the situation called for.”

He was much loved by his friends and family for his tenderness, integrity, wit and brilliant mind.

There was a memorial service Friday, May 5, 2017, at First Baptist Church of Sebring.

Services entrusted to: Stephenson-Nelson Funeral Home, 4001 Sebring Parkway, Sebring, Florida 33870.

Online condolences may be left at stephensonnelsonfh.com.

DOYLE E. BARFIELD, 78, of Winter Garden, died Monday, April 17, 2017. Loomis Family Cremations, Orlando.

DIXIE LEE V. BEYER, 65, of Winter Garden, died Tuesday, April 25, 2017. DeGusipe Funeral Home and Crematory, Ocoee.

JUAN GALARZA BERMUDEZ, 77, of Ocoee, died Friday, April 21, 2017. Good Life Funeral Home & Cremation, Orlando.

Todd DeGusipe

“Because you care”

Cremation, Funeral and Burial Starting at $795

(407)695-CARE (2273)

www.DeGusipeFuneralhome.com Family owned & operated 1400 Matthew Paris Blvd.

Ocoee, FL 34761

Maitland Sanford West Orange

“Cremation Choices offers an affordable alternative to expensive funeral homes and cremation services in the Central Florida area.”

Direct Cremation

675

$

Plus Container

352-394-8228

COLLEEN A. BRANGAN, 53, of Winter Garden, died Tuesday, March 28, 2017. Winter Oak Funeral Home & Cremations, Winter Garden.

921 S. US Hwy 27 • Minneola, FL One block north of Citrus Tower

WOODLAWN MEMORIAL PARK AND FUNERAL HOME

We are Proud to offer: • A Celebration of Life Service • Traditional Burial and Cremation Services • Prearranged Funeral Services

407-293-1361

You. Your Neighbors.

Your Neighborhood.

407-656-2233 • www.baldwinfairchild.com 428 E. Plant Street • Winter Garden, FL 34787

239343

Winter Garden’s ONLY family owned funeral home.

www.cremationchoicesfl.com

We offer a non-traditional setting for families to feel comfortable when planning for themselves or their loved ones. For more information and a complete list of prices, please visit our website: www.cremationchoicesfl.com

Baldwin Fairchild Funeral Home Winter Garden

400 Woodlawn Cemetery Rd. • Gotha, Florida 34734

Serving the Orlando area since 1926.

23

THURSDAY, MAY 11, 2017

239369

James, Ferrel, Snuffy, Doctor, Husband, Friend, Papa, Father, Son, Cousin, Uncle, Brother, Farmer, Soldier, Teacher, Scholar, Christian, Deacon, Leader, Other.

Dr. James Ferrel Smith, 91, passed onto glory on Tuesday, May 2, 2017.

He leaves behind sisters, Betty Lou Smith Cockcroft, of Andalusia, Alabama, and Sybil Smith King, of Andalusia, Alabama; children, Elizabeth McKinney (Ed), of Winter Garden, Florida, Kay Sanders, of Troy, Alabama, Al Smith (Bethanne), of St. Cloud, Florida, and Amy Morgan (Pete), of Winter Garden, Florida; grandchildren, Sara Beth Hopton, of Boone, North Carolina, Amanda Harris, of Altamonte Spring, Florida, Adam Sanders (Ashley), of Ozark, Alabama, Katie Sanders Thomas (Stewart), of Troy, Alabama, Alex Sanders (Misti), of Elba, Alabama, Aaron Smith, of St. Cloud, Florida, Shauna Smith Cheek (Dustin), of Nashville, Tennessee, Ashley Smith Day (Brandon), of St. Cloud, Florida, Tara Smith Langford (Rusty), of Memphis, Tennessee, Andrew Morgan, of Orlan-

do, Florida, Jake Morgan, of Charleston, South Carolina, and Zack Morgan, of Panama City, Florida; and eight great-grandchildren, as well as numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Kathryn Brooks Smith; parents, Jimmy and Carrie Smith; sisters, Myrtle Smith Parker, Evelyn Smith Lee and Jeanette Smith Reel.

He will be remembered for his contributions to the Highlands County School System and his community and dedication to Christ, family and First Baptist Church of Sebring. As an educator, he served as teacher, principal, district administrator, assistant and superintendent of schools for Highlands County Schools.

He achieved a bachelor’s degree from Troy State University, a master’s from Auburn University, after receiving a fellowship he received a Specialist in Education degree from the University of Florida and finally earned a Doctorate of Education from Nova University.

He served in World War II as an MP and the Korean War as a company commander of the prisoner of war camp #3 at Cheje-Do Island, Korea. He scored so highly on the Army entrance

|

239389

JAMES F. SMITH DIED MAY 2, 2017.

239579

WEST ORANGE OBITUARIES

OrangeObserver.com

From all of us here at Collison Carey Hand,

Happy Mother’s Day. 407-614-8350

“That’s My Wish”

We are your Hometown Funeral Home, offering our:

Direct Cremation for:

795.00 Call for details

$

407-877-6700

239390

www.winteroakfuneralhome.com

241388

“Home of the area’s first certified therapy dog.

Feel free to stop in and say hello to Charley Girl!”

1148 E. Plant St. Winter Garden, Fl

1132 E. Plant Street, Winter Garden Florida 34787 • LIC #F080822

collisoncareyhand.com 3 col x 5” Collison.mothers’17

24

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

|

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, MAY 11, 2017

The Force was strong at this one

WINTER GARDEN LOCATION NOW CLOSED OPENING SOON IN NEW OCOEE LOCATION

J

edis wielded their lightsabers, and Darth Vader posed with guests at The Autism and Related Disabilities Gym Program’s Star Wars prom Friday, April 29.

Held at the Jim Beech Recreation Center in Ocoee, the annual prom featured food, music, dancing, photo opportunities, the crowning of a prom king and queen and more.

• Whole Belly Clams • Lobster Rolls • Homemade Clam Chowder • Charbroiled Steaks and Surf & Turf

9467 W. Colonial Dr. in Ocoee We will be able to seat over 250 guests!

Outdoor seating will be available and we’ll have full liquor service!

— DANIELLE HENDRIX

We look forward to serving you again soon!

www.BatesNESS.com • 407-347-9861

Jerrod Tallman loved meeting all the characters.

BR DENTAL - DR. BRIAN RAMSKI ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS

INTRODUCING PAIN FREE INJECTIONS! Ask us about the “wand”. Call today for your appointment!

Right: Michael Warren, Toni Rae Charles and Avery Charles loved hanging out with a Jawa.

213 S. Dillard St, Ste. 140

407-905-9965

www.drbrianramski.com

ONLINE 239360

OFFICE HOURS: Tuesday-Thursday 8 - 12 and 1 - 5, Friday 7 - 1

Above: Nathan Hood was crowned prom king.

See more photos at

OrangeObserver.com

BR Dental is an In-Network provider with the following PPO Dental Insurance plans: Aetna, Cigna, Ameritas, BC/BS, Florida Combined Life, MetLife, Principal, United Concordia, Guardian, Humana, United Healthcare and Dentemax.

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.

Guest speakers include Orange County Sheriff Jerry Demmings and Lieutenant Colonel Robert Carter, the U.S. Army Institute of Surgical Research.

Monday, May 29, 2017 MEMORIAL DAY10ISa.m.

ONLY ONCE A YEAR

butMosaic our atgratitude is endless.

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.

Please join us for a special Memorial Day honor and celebration those who Memorialevent Dayin Is Only Once AofYear have proudly served our country.

but our gratitude is endless Memorial Day

400 Woodlawn Cemetery Road Gotha, FL 34734

239790

239602

Read our REVIEWS on FB, Yelp and Trip Advisor

New location will be in front of West Oaks Mall at

MAY 11, 2017

HIGH

SPORTS

1

5

The West Orange softball team cruised to a 7-0 victory against Lake Nona in the first round of the FHSAA Class 9A Playoffs May 3. The Warriors also played Apopka May 9 in the regional semifinals after press time. For the result, visit ObserverPreps.com.

2

Congrats to Olympia High senior Kenya Dillon for winning an individual state championship in the girls 100-meter hurdles.

Foundation Academy’s Jacob Mell caps his senior season with a walk-off hit in the district tournament. Page 26.

Knights, Warriors punch tickets to playoffs The Ocoee baseball program secured its first playoff appearance by upsetting East Ridge, while West Orange repeated as District 9A-3’s champ.

STEVEN RYZEWSKI SENIOR SPORTS EDITOR

Of the five varsity baseball teams covered by the West Orange Times & Observer, only the Ocoee Knights and the West Orange Warriors survived last week’s rugged district tournament slate.

For the Knights (19-8), an upsetvictory May 2 against top-seeded East Ridge in the semifinals of the

District 8A-3 Tournament gave the program its first playoff berth since the opening of the modern Ocoee High.

“It means so much for the program, for our community — it means so much for our school,” head coach Bobby Brewer said.

“The last four years, we’ve been knocking on the door.”

Steven Ryzewski

Doug Nikzhazy pitched six scoreless innings for the West Orange baseball SEE WARRIORS PAGE 26 team in the District 9A-3 Championship Game May 5 at Lake Brantley.

Bounce back

3

Windermere High’s football program has begun practicing this spring for its inaugural season in the fall and will have a spring scrimmage/ community event from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. May 20 at Olympia High. For more on the new program, visit ObserverPreps.com.

4

Joe Milton, the rising senior quarterback at Olympia High, announced his college commitment to Michigan May 7 via a video posted to YouTube. Milton, a 6-foot-4 prospect, also has been invited to the 2017 Elite 11 competition in Los Angeles this summer.

5

Former West Orange star quarterback Woody Barrett has announced his intent to transfer from Auburn.

Barrett, who graduated in 2016, redshirted his freshman season with Auburn.

He announced his decision via Twitter, and AL.com reports that he will attend junior college for one season before selecting a different SEC program to sign with for the 2018 season.

Steven Ryzewski

West Orange senior tennis player Courtney Earp lost just once in singles competition this spring as the Warriors’ Line 2 player.

The discovery of a cancerous tumor in her left lung cost West Orange tennis player Courtney Earp her junior season, but that didn’t stop her from having her strongest varsity season.

STEVEN RYZEWSKI SENIOR SPORTS EDITOR

E

ighteen years ago this Saturday, Courtney Earp made her grand entrance into this world alongside her twin brother, Chandler.

Weighing just 4 pounds that day, she was petite, but she was a fighter, as her parents Ken and Jeanne recall. As she readies to graduate high school in the coming weeks, that much, at least, has not changed.

Courtney had a strong senior season on the tennis team at West Orange High this spring — a sea-

son during which the Warriors advanced to the regional playoffs.

As the Warriors’ Line 2 player in singles and a part of the Line 1 doubles team, she lost just once this season as an individual, finishing 7-1.

Her head coach at West Orange, Marilyne Ross, said she was the team’s most valuable player this spring. An impressive recognition on its own, it is even more so when considering the road Courtney took to get back on the court.

After a cancerous tumor was discovered in her left lung in December 2015, the then-junior spent five weeks in the hospi-

tal and missed her entire junior season. Despite that setback — and the scare that came with it — Courtney remained the same petite fighter she has always been.

“She’s super strong,” Jeanne Earp said. “She had to go through so much, and she’s always been a fighter. She was born little … and she’s always been strong.”

REMARKABLE STRENGTH

The first signs of the tumor surfaced in summer 2015, when Courtney began coughing up blood.

SEE EARP PAGE 26

26

SPORTS SPOTLIGHT

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

|

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, MAY 11, 2017

Warriors win 9A-3

SPONSORED BY MARK’S FLOORS

Jacob Mell Although Foundation Academy’s baseball season ended Wednesday, May 3, during the semifinal round of the District 3A-3 Tournament, senior Jacob Mell ended his high-school baseball career on a high note.

Just one day prior, Mell had a walk-off hit that helped seal his team’s advancement to the tournament’s semifinal.

What was it like to get that walk-off hit?

I wasn’t really thinking about it too much. I had a feeling we were going to move on because we were all fired up and pumped. So when I got up there, I was just thinking, “I want it. I want it. I want it.” When I got it, it was a feeling I’ve never had before — a feeling of joy, accomplishment, celebrating with my teammates and coaches.

It’s the best feeling I’ve ever

Ocoee’s 3-1 victory against East Ridge came by way of a strong pitching performance by sophomore Ethan Long, as well as a timely RBI-single by Colby Karr and a clutch two-run home run by Bubba Sangster.

The Knights came up short May 4 in the district championship game against Forest, 5-1, meaning that Ocoee played its regional quarterfinal game May 9 against Tampa Wharton on the road after press time.

As for West Orange (24-3), competing in a district that also features regular powerhouses such as Lake Brantley, Apop-

THE BASICS

YEAR: Senior HEIGHT: 5-foot-10 POSITION: Catcher HOMETOWN: Pembroke Pines BAT SWING: Right

had. It was my first walk-off hit, and I’m glad it happened like that.

Why did you start playing baseball?

I’ve played ever since I was young. I inherited it from my dad. I love it. There’s no better feeling than being on the field with all your friends out there.

“It means just about everything,” said Nikhazy, who had pitched six scoreless innings in the district final for the West Orange. “In a district like this, you fight for just about every win you get.”

Thanks to its victory against the Patriots, West Orange was able to host its first-round playoff game May 9 against Metro Conference rival Dr. Phillips.

To see how the Knights and Warriors fared May 9, visit ObserverPreps.com.

Contact Steven Ryzewski at sryzewski@orangeobserver.com.

Earp’s return to court a success CONTINUED FROM PAGE 25

What did you think of your senior season?

It was indescribable getting to play one last time with all my friends that I’ve been playing with for most of my life.

“At first, I didn’t think it was anything serious, (because) I was a pretty healthy person,” Courtney said.

Eventually, she did bring it to her parents’ attention, and doctors initially responded by prescribing antibiotics and giving her an inhaler. For a time, that seemed to do the trick.

Bu when she began coughing up blood again around Halloween, the Earps decided to seek more extensive testing. After trips to several specialists, the culprit was finally discovered on Dec. 8, 2015: a cancerous mass in her left lung.

“I was kind of just shocked and frozen at first,” Courtney said, recalling when she was given the news from her doctor.

“My parents were outside talking to the doctors, and I was just sitting on the hospital bed like, ‘Oh my gosh.’”

Courtney endured five surgeries as doctors removed the cancerous tumor and also tried to save the other lobe in her left lung. Through it all, the Earps leaned on both the staff at Florida Hospital, which Ken Earp complimented as doing “an amazing job” — and one another.

“I feel like God gives you what you can handle; but it was tough,” Jeanne Earp said. “You look back and you don’t know how you did it. (Courtney) exudes the strength, and so we

What do you enjoy most about playing the catcher’s position?

Every play you’re involved.

You’re getting the ball, blocking the ball, getting guys out on base. It’s intense every play.

What are your plans for next year?

I’m going to UCF to study film.

Do you have a favorite movie?

I’ve got to go with “Star Wars.” It’s a classic.

What do you like to do for fun?

Hang out with friends, relax, go to the beach or be on the lake.

Are you a dog or cat person?

A dog person, definitely. I don’t have a dog, but I love beagles because they’re awesome.

got it from her.”

Indeed, Courtney rarely sulked about what had happened, instead making friends with the many nurses who attended to her.

“She had remarkable strength,” Ken Earp said.

After five surgeries in as many weeks, Courtney Earp was discharged to come home Jan. 14, 2016. At that point, the first priority was to get back on track with her schoolwork, and she was home-schooled for the rest of her junior year.

RETURN TO FORM

About two months after being discharged, Courtney began easing her way back onto the court — at first just helping her mother Jeanne, who is a tennis instructor, as she gave lessons.

Courtney, whose weight had dipped as low as 85 pounds while in the hospital, recalls feeling flimsy and needing to focus on building her strength back up.

Last summer, she began to train more regularly and into the fall, she set the stage for her return to the varsity team at West Orange, all the while maintaining a 4.2 GPA and also being an officer for the school’s band.

When she returned to the team, she was pleasantly surprised to be named the team’s Line 3.

“I didn’t really think I could get back to where I was,” Courtney said.

It was no pity move, either.

Courtney played well her senior season, using a methodical approach to defeat opponents.

“Courtney’s game is one of consistency,” Ross said. “She returns practically every ball thrown at her, and she can wear down an opponent.”

THE NEXT STEP

The Warriors’ season eventually ended April 18 with a 4-1 loss to Winter Park in the FHSAA Class 4A Regional First-Round Match, but even then it was Courtney who scored West Orange’s sole victory of the day.

Now, Courtney is preparing to graduate and begin her next journey as a college student at the University of Central Florida this fall. She is excited to continue to play tennis as a recreational outlet and credits her family for helping her retain her love for the game through a tough time. “(Their support) was everything,” Courtney said.

Courtney will return to the doctor at predetermined intervals so she can be sure that the cancerous cells have not returned, but she is not angry about that, or really any of what happened. Courtney takes a glass-half-full long view of her health scare.

“It impacted me in a positive way,” she said. “I believe everything happens for a reason. I think it built my character a lot.”

BodyTech Performance Presents Central Florida’s Biggest Indoor Sports Camp

— BRITTANY GAINES

Athlete of the Week sponsored by:

ka and Olympia, as well as an improving program at Wekiva, means that nothing is guaranteed. Despite that, the Warriors — who advanced all the way to the FHSAA Class 9A State Final Four in Fort Myers last spring — repeated as District 9A-3’s champion last week.

So, as the Warriors hoisted the district championship trophy after first defeating Olympia 6-1 in the district semifinals May 3 and then Lake Brantley 2-1 in the district championship May 5, the significance of the accomplishment was not lost on junior pitcher Doug Nikhazy.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 25

You. Your Neighbors.

Your Neighborhood.

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

Observer Celebrating 110 years in West Orange

INSPIRED DESIGN Read about our new look. Page 8

YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.

VOLUME 82, NO. 40

FREE

•

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2015

Meet the man in the rave cave

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

ARTS+CULTURE

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

West Orange High thespians dish up a spoonful of sugar.

AMY QUESINBERRY RHODE COMMUNITY EDITOR

R

PAGE 15

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

YOUR TOWN ALUMNI MEET ON GRIDIRON

STORY ON PAGE 4

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

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

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

* Carpet * Tile * Hardwood * Vinyl * Laminate

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

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

David Haynes

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

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

SEE STORY ON 25

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

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

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

SEE CAR SHOW PAGE 4

Have our Mobile Showroom come to you!

Minneola, FL 34715 (352) 394-0303

ADVERTISE OR SUBSCRIBE TODAY!

Follow us on

www.marksfloorsonline.com

Boys & Girls Ages 6-14

Call us at 407-656-2121

Email us at AdvertiseNow@OrangeObserver.com or Subscribe@OrangeObserver.com

240995

3985 Hwy 19A Mount Dora, FL 32757 (352) 385-0303

Minneola Location 301 E. Washington St. Unit F

239577

Mount Dora Location

Courtesy photo

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

Begins Jun 5th 9am to 5pm Mon-Fri

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

|

THURSDAY, MAY 11, 2017

27

Big Orange Games host top athletes

David Leon got some lastsecond pointers before the big race.

Neisha Brown showed off some girl power during the beanbag toss.

Alec Nachtsheim displayed impressive form while participating in the softball toss.

ONLINE

Anthony Mirzaian let it fly during the shot put.

T

he annual Big Orange Games took place April 29, at Ocoee High School, where area athletes with special needs competed in track and field events.

Events included runs of 40, 60 and 100 yards as well as the club throw, the softball throw, the standing jump, the soft shot and the soft discus.

Winners were recognized with awards and shared lunch afterward. In addition to providing a good time for all, the goal of the games is to be a reminder that “disabled” does not mean “unable.”

See more photos at OrangeObserver.com

Jessica DeJesus stuck the landing on her long-jump attempt.

Logan Phillips had a lot of fun during the race events.

— STEVEN RYZEWSKI

Schedule your FREE in-home Consultation & Price Quote!

(407) 734-2971 RBAFLA.com Call before May 31st to get this limited time offer!

40

Buy One Get One

% off*

Renewal by Andersen® windows are made from Fibrex® material, an Andersen-exclusive composite that combines the strength and stability of wood with the lowmaintenance features of vinyl.

Windows & Patio Doors (Minimum purchase of 3)

plus

NO

Money Down, Payments or “Wish I could give Renewal by Andersen of Central Interest for Florida 10 stars! It was an amazing and professional ONE FULL experience from start to finish and the windows make it look like we’re watching the outside world in HD. If you have been YEAR!*

considering replacing your old windows, I recommend these guys!”

*Offer expires 5/31/2017. Not valid with other offers or prior purchases. Minimum purchase of 3 windows and/or doors required. Buy one window or door at regular retail price and get the next window or door 40% off the regular retail price. No money down, payments or interest for one year available to well-qualified buyers on approved credit only. No finance charges will be assessed if promo balance is paid in full within 12 months. Renewal by Andersen retailers are independently owned and operated, and are neither brokers nor lenders. Any finance terms advertised are estimates only, and all financing is provided by third-party lenders unaffiliated with Renewal by Andersen retailers, under terms and conditions arranged directly between the customer and such lender, all subject to credit requirements. License number available upon request. “Renewal by Andersen” and all other marks where denoted are trademarks of Andersen Corporation. © 2016 Renewal by Andersen of Central Florida.

241037

- Peggy T. (Florida Homeowner)

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, MAY 11, 2017

Remodeling your kitchen or bathroom?

TRAVELIN’ TIMES

|

239410

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

Take us with you!

A

s you pack your suitcases for all your worldly travels, be sure to put in a copy of the West Orange Times & Observer or Windermere Observer.

All entries will be entered into our ongoing Travelin’ Times contest. Entering is easy! Once you find an interesting background, feature your weekly newspaper in a high-quality photo and email it to Community Editor Amy Quesinberry at AmyQ@orangeobserver. com. You can also mail or drop off the photo: Observer Media Group, 720 S. Dillard St., Winter Garden 34787.

Emailed photos should be at least 200 dpi. Include the names of everyone in the photo, where it was taken and a phone number where the editor can reach you.

— AMY QUESINBERRY

We take cabinets, doors, light fixtures, bathroom fixtures.

Call (407)905-0406 for FREE pick-up or bring smaller items to the ReStore

Above: Gabrielle Mesidor took the Windermere Observer on a trip to Brazil to watch the Rio Olympics.

13369 West Colonial Drive

(between 9th and Dillard Street, behind Taco Bell in Winter Garden)

Left: Steve Cook and Jane Harrison visited Brazil with their hometown paper and also visited the World Heritage Island of Fernando De Noronha.

Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 am to 5 pm Saturday, 8 am to 4 pm. Closed Sunday

www.westorangehabitat.org

239419

CHURCH DIRECTORY BAPTIST

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 125 E Plant St., Winter Garden 407-656-2352 Sundays 8:30 am Traditional 9:45 am Bible Study 11:00 am Contemporary Awana - Wednesdays - 6pm Pastor Tim Grosshans www.fbcwg.org 2nd Campus: “FOUNDATION WORSHIP” Sundays 9:45 am - All Ages at Foundation Academy High School 15304 Tilden Road - Winter Garden www.FoundationWorship.com 407.730.1867 STARKE LAKE BAPTIST CHURCH PO Box 521, 611 W Ave, Ocoee Pastor Jeff Pritchard (407) 656-2351 www.starkelakebaptist.org

Non-Denominational HAVEN OF GRACE BIBLE CHURCH 13520 Foxcrest Blvd.

Winter Garden, FL 34787 Services 9:30 and 10:30AM 407-952-0510

CHURCH OF GOD

OCOEE CHURCH OF GOD Pastor Thomas Odom 1105 N. Lakewood Avenue, Ocoee 407-656-8011

EPISCOPAL

CHURCH OF THE MESSIAH 241 N. Main, Winter Garden Services: 8, 9:30, & 11am, 7pm www.churchofthemessiah.com CHURCH OF THE ASCENSION 4950 S. Apopka-Vineland Rd. Orlando Sun.Serv 8:30am, 10:30am, 6:30pm.

407-876-3480 www.ascension-orlando.org

METHODIST

FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 125 N. Lakeview Ave Winter Garden Service Times 9:00 AM and 11:15 AM Phone – 407-656-1135 Web: fumcwg.org

NON-DENOMINATIONAL

NEXT COMMUNITY CHURCH 13640 W. Colonial Dr., Ste 110, Winter Garden 407-654-9661 • Prayer 9:30AM, Fellowship 9:45AM, Service 10:05AM

UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST

Advertise your Services or Events on this page weekly.

This page appears weekly in the West Orange Times & Observer and online at wotimes.com.

To advertise in the Church Directory call 407-656-2121 or email sfelt@wotimes.com

WINDERMERE UNION CHURCH 10710 Park Ridge-Gotha Rd. Windermere, FL 34786 407-876-2112 Worship times: 9:00am Adult Sunday School 10:00am Worship www.windermereunion.org

MIKE YOAKUM PASTOR

P: 407.656.1520 C: 407.758.3570 MYOAKUM407@AOL.COM

Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone. - Colossians 4:5-6 NIV

1333 EAST CROWN POINT RD. OCOEE, FL 34761

Matthew’s Hope Chest Creations • Repaired, Refinished and Repurposed Wood Furniture • Pallet Art & Furniture Follow us at https://www.facebook.com/groups/MatthewsHopeChest/

New Matthew’s Hope Chest Workshop • 407.905.9500 9am-4pm Mon - Sat 930 Carter Rd. Suite #311 • 1/4 Mile north of W. Colonial Drive 1pm-5pm on Sun

Visit our new Matthew’s Hope Chest Creations Booth Gracie’s Amazing Marketplace, 35 N. Dillard Street

240998

28

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

W EAT HER

OrangeObserver.com

I LOVE WEST ORANGE

FORECAST

|

29

THURSDAY, MAY 11, 2017

SUNRISE / SUNSET

THURSDAY, MAY 11

High: 95 Low: 68 Chance of rain: 0%

FRIDAY, MAY 12 High: 92 Low: 70 Chance of rain: 0%

Sunrise Sunset

Thursday, May 11

6:38a

8:07p

Friday, May 12

6:38a

8:08p

Saturday, May 13

6:37a

8:08p

Sunday, May 14

6:36a

8:09p

Monday, May 15

6:36a

8:10p

Tuesday, May 16

6:35a

8:10p

Wednesday, May 17

6:35a

8:11p

MOON PHASES

SATURDAY, MAY 13 May 2 First

High: 89 Low: 68 Chance of rain: 40% Winter Garden resident Erik Rittenberry submitted this beautiful photo. “A little taste of the old South on the banks of beautiful Lake Apopka at sunset,” Rittenberry said.

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

ONLINE

May 18 Last

May 25 New

RAINFALL Tuesday, May 2

0.07

SUNDAY, MAY 14

Wednesday, May 3

0.00

High: 90 Low: 68 Chance of rain: 10%

Thursday, May 4

0.00

Friday, May 5

0.16

Saturday, May 6

0.01

Sunday, May 7

0.00

Monday, May 8

0.00

See other winning photos at OrangeObserver.com

Change your landscape Today!

Sod, Mulch, Rocks and Installations

May 10 Full

by the piece, 1/2 pallect or whole pallet

YEAR TO DATE:

MAY TO DATE:

2017

3.51 in.

2017 0.33 in.

2016 12.04 in.

2016 1.68 in.

ST. AUGUSTINE & BAHIA SOLD

Contact us today at 407-875-1900 or 407-875-5755

42 Dr. Neil Patrick Harris 43 Cortes foe and victim 44 Protective outer layer of a seed 46 One’s demeanor 47 What pessimists say life is 48 Does more than chats 51 “Macbeth” title 57 Russian gymnast Korbut 61 “Scram!”

63 “PUSH FOR ___” 64 Certain type of food preserver 65 Saxophone range 67 Nero’s “that is” 70 Kind of concert or market 71 Rum drinker’s sing-song refrain 73 Green gems 74 Indoor sports venue 75 “Cease and desist” 78 Like many signs on the DOWN Vegas strip 1 Scottish head covering 79 Like any after-midnight 2 Manning the passer TV show 3 “... and to ___ a good night” 80 Wine sampler 4 “The Fresh Prince of ___-Air” 83 Hostile or belligerent mood 5 Correspond grammatically 85 Glimmered 6 Sound from a hog 89 “Thinking” part of a 7 Snatches computer 8 T. ___ Price (investment 90 Shes’ counterparts firm) 92 Go ___ winner (retire on 9 Calligraphers’ necessities top) 10 It may contain a belfry 95 Suitable for drinking 11 Pixar’s “___ Story” 96 Contests between knights 12 Lab measuring tube (var.) on horseback 13 Melodic 99 Plump 14 Word before a maiden 104 Western band that chased name outlaws 15 Picked-out hairstyle 56 Concerning this, to 86 Out-limb link 105 Editor’s insert mark 16 “___ obliged” lawyers 87 Art ___ (Miami Beach’s 106 Actress Winger 17 Drinks by the yard 58 Psychic’s claim design style) 107 In one’s stomach 19 “Go on ...”

59 Plan ___-together 88 Little Ms. Bobbsey 108 Slightly open, as a door 20 Having irrational fears (schedule a meeting) 89 Guevara the revolution109 Like all babies 24 Covers up or dresses up ary 60 Buddhist’s goal 110 Moose relatives 29 Build a room around 91 Screeching night birds 62 Nonclergy 113 Skier’s alpine transport 93 “The Dukes of Hazzard” 30 Guinea pig relative 66 Stuff used in making 114 Jeans inventor Strauss 31 Dr. DeForest Kelley deputy sheriff glass 115 Soda, in slang 32 Horne the entertainment 94 Dr. Wayne Rogers 68 Mr. Aykroyd 117 Grandfather clock’s three 97 “Join ___ the grand open- legend 69 In a rational manner 118 Suffix with colonial or 33 It’s certainly not a blessing ing!” (new store’s invitation) 72 Ending for spin or grid alcohol 35 What it produces is crude 98 Attachment to nay or 73 Rocked out 120 Trump’s Olympic team 37 Pertaining to religious rites sooth 76 Any mom or dad 121 “My Gal ___” (1942 film) 38 Stat for a tire inflator 100 Devoutly religious 77 Musket output 122 Inhibitor of teamwork 39 Have possession of 81 Big name in gas stations 101 Wife of John Lennon 123 Old gas pump abbrevia41 What an 0-2 count on a 102 Head of France?

82 Have a loan out tion batter indicates 103 Genre of illusory, 84 Snacks

BUT I PLAY ONE ON TV by Timothy B. Parker

eyeball-bending drawings 105 Billiards stick 106 More expensive or beloved 108 Good card to have in a casino 111 “Sesame Street” viewer 112 Map collection between two covers 115 Certain vegetable 116 Dr. Harry Shearer 119 Less acute 124 Big name in low-carb diets 125 Does backbreaking work 126 Sign of something about to happen 127 Dwell 128 Kind of system, raise or badge 129 Not digital

©2017 Universal Uclick

ACROSS

1 It gets into hot water 7 Grain to be ground 12 Type of hat or canal 18 Certain hay fever drug brand 20 “I need it yesterday!”

21 Showing great anger 22 Channel of water that turns a wheel 23 Dr. Alan Alda 25 Period’s place in a sentence 26 Super-big, body-wise 27 First name in “The Matrix” 28 Round-mouthed cries

29 Holder of many bills 33 “Blue Bloods” network 34 Cruise liner stops 36 Tommie of baseball or James of writing 37 ___ generis (unique) 38 FDR’s health affliction 40 Be over by 45 “Crazy” bird 46 Dr. Robert Young 49 Move like the Blob 50 Reckless, impetuous, irresponsible people 52 Novelist Anais 53 “Aren’t ___ fine pair of misfits?”

54 Automatons (Abbr.)

55 Give-go link

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.

“HP’Y SCP ABYV DAHSL B KCPGAX. HT HP UAXA ABYV, TBPGAXY UCWZE EC HP.”

– ECXCPGV (DAB BXPGWX) CS “PGA LCZEAS LHXZY”

“ETPO CYB WYYJ UZ CYBK FYZTPK, CYB UKP WYYJVOL UZ ZTP MBKPGZ WYXP CYB EVWW PXPK JOYE.” – FVZNT UWHYF Puzzle Two Clue: M equals P

CROSSWORD

Puzzle One Clue: K equals M

239640

www.soddepotflorida.com

©2017 NEA, Inc.

SUDOKU

Complete the grid so that every row, column and 3x3 box contains every digit from 1 to 9 inclusively.

©2017 Andrews McMeel Syndicate

5-11-17

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, MAY 11, 2017

|

AIR CONDITIONING

AUTO SERVICE

CONSTRUCTION

CRAWFORD TIRE SERVICE, INC.

Travis Hamric Branch Manager

1081 9th Street Winter Garden, FL 34787

110 Taylor St. • Ocoee • (407) 656-4575

MORE THAN JUST

239671

TIRE VALUES

• •

239685

10% OFF your rental

• Bridgetone • Michelin • Toyo • BFG Tires

sunbeltrentals.com

• ALIGNMENT • BRAKES • SHOCKS • OIL & LUBE SERVICE • NEW & USED TIRES • REPAIR & BALANCING • ROAD SERVICE • WE INSTALL LIFTS!

HOME SERVICES

SPARR HOME IMPROVEMENTS

Mobil 1 Oil

Amsoil Synthetic

239674

MV03215

TFN

TRAYWICK'S

TFN

(407) 654-9516 Office (407) 491-0355 Mobile (407) 654-0145 Fax pcm050@sunbeltrentals.com

Mention this ad for

GARAGE

• Bathroom Remodeling • Tile • Painting • Electric • Plumbing • Handyman Service 407-616-0467 • Winter Garden, FL

241057

30

sparr09@gmail.com • Facebook.com/sparr09 PEST CONTROL

TFN 239680

1045 S. Vineland Rd. •Winter Garden • New and Used Tires • Alignment • Complete Auto Repair • A/C Serv. & More

407.296.9622 407.877.6268

239257

407-656-1817

-FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED –

www.gsairsystems.com email: gsairsystems@cfl.rr.com Licensed & Insured - State License #CAC1814407

• Quality • Service • Sales • Installation • Commercial • Residential

PET SERVICES

a unique no-cage facility daycare and overnight boarding

(407) 654-8885

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK • 8AM - 5PM

703 S. Vineland Rd. Winter Garden, FL 34787

• All Engines $200.00 each • All Transmissions $100.00 each • Tires $15.00 and up • Batteries $25.00 • Warranties on all parts sold!

www.puppydreams.com We’re there when you can’t be!

236105

239690

407-656-4707

www.budgetupullit.com

TFN 239665

AUTO SERVICE

Your pet’s home away from home

WE BUY JUNK CARS WE BUY SCRAP METAL

407-810-5569

everycritterpetsitter.com

www.

everycritter@yahoo.com Licensed/Insured/Bonded

Peace of mind pet sitting and dog walking

239686

We offer financing with approved credit

Puppy Dreams Pet Hotel

881 S. 9th Street • Winter Garden, FL 34787

239672

Call for a FREE estimate on Equipment Replacement.

239676

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

Financing

SERVICE

See store for details

BMW 3 Series Mercedes C-Class

179.95 BMW 5 Series $199.95 $

179.95 Mercedes E-Class $199.95 $

Full Synthetic Oil Service

Ocoee, FL

Danny Motes

ONLY

Cell 407-466-4738 Tel 407-654-2395 Fax 407-654-2986

85.00

$

Includes up to 7 quarts Service includes: Front or Rear Pads, Parts and Labor. of Full Synthetic & Oil Filter .

Tax and recycling fees are extra. Not valid with any other offers. Expires 5/31/17.

TFN

www.Firetechextinguisher.com

239678

BRAKE PAD SALE

FIRE TECH

EXTINGUISHER

STRESS

FREE

Therapeutic Massage Studio MM33542 Battery Testing and Replacement

Scheduled Maintenance

Transmission and Engine Repair

Computerized Diagnostics

Tune-Ups and General Repair

Tires and Alignments

www.r-dauto.com

REG# MV-01095

TFN

Phone 407-656-6646

Richard Hudson • Reggie Hudson

Tammy Jacobs, LMT 239663

Working Owners

930 Carter Rd #202 Winter Garden, FL 34787 Telephone: (407) 614-3827 rdtransautorepair@cfl.rr.com

237933

Ray Cornell Jr. Doug Gallinger

“Your Complete Service Center” 10 West Story Rd. Winter Garden, FL 34787

13640 W. Colonial Drive, 130-F tjacobs_lmt@yahoo.com

MA55787 Winter Garden, FL 34787

(321) 698-4926

239689

In House Towing Available

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

Garbage Can Camouflage

TFN

Keep the City Beautiful!

239679

Keep the City Beautiful!

ROOFING

Residential • Commercial • Tile • Metal

Hide unsightly Recycle & Garbage Cans with a

Hide unsightly Recycle & Garbage Cans with a

UPGRADES & REPAIRS

UPGRADESBEFORE & REPAIRS

CanSkirt!

Lid covers now available

Local landscape designs

Patent Pending

240581

AFTER

VIRUS & SPYWARE ?QV\MZ /IZLMV¼[ 8ZMUQMZ :WWÅVO +WUXIVa ;QVKM !

REMOVAL ;MZ^QVO )TT WN ?M[\ 7ZIVOM +W]V\a DATA & PASSWORD Local landscape designs .]TTa 4QKMV[ML IVL 1V[]ZML :WWN :MXIQZ[ IVL :MXTIKMUMV\ RECOVERY

AFTER

240581

CanSkirt!

Lid covers now available BEFORE

Patent Pending

CanSkirt.com • 407-877-8788 CanSkirt.com • 407-877-8788 ̆ ̆ WIRELESS &! ?M[\7ZIVOM:WWÅVO KWU WIRED NETWORKING .:-- -;<15)<-;

AIR CONDITIONING

GAR

Andrew T. Katsanis

“Your Local Financial Advisor”

TFN

407-656-1817

OPERATED – -FAMILY OWNED &

HEALTH SERVICES

8 407.296.9622 407.877.626

Dysfunction Erectile Be Dangerous To Your Health

gsairsystems@cfl.rr.com www.gsairsystems.com email: #CAC1814407

Drugs May

License

reveals what the FREE book by doctor want you to know! drug companies don’t If the popular

881 S. 9th Street • Winter Garden,

on Call for a FREE estimate Equipment Replacement.

We offer financing with approved

239688

(407) 654-8885

703 S. Vineland Rd. Winter Garden, FL 34787

m

016

Bob & Edie Gentile 561-744-7

NY

ERY COMPA MYWAY LIEN & RECOV & Storage Liens

Amsoil Synthet

CLERK DAYS - LICENSED TITLE GET CLEAN TITLE IN 31 and Legal Fees $390.00

FIRE TECH

Processing owner & lien holder & theft search.

Includes: Title history report, legal mailed to all parties.

Notice of claim of lien certificate agency will be notified.

If address changed local law enforcement Auction at law office. date.

Newspaper advertising for auction same day will be issued by private tag agency, If lien is not satisfied, clean title service, fast clean titles.

MV License by fax or email. repair of your Just send us your work order, copy due when clean title is issued. balance Down payment of $200 and remaining

TFN

SERVICE Ocoee, FL

Danny Motes

Cell 407-466-4738 Tel 407-654-2395 Fax 407-654-2986

www.mywaylien.com

mywaylien@gmail.com

REG# MV-01095

EXTINGUISHER

Fax 321-226-5000

Phone 407-970-3060

Center” “Your Complete Service Garden, FL 34787 10 West Story Rd. Winter Hudson

TFN

om

www.Firetechextinguisher.c

COMPUTERS

Phone 407-656-6646

Richard Hudson • Reggie

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

Mechanic’s

Mobil 1 Oil ic

REALTORS

THAT “QUALITY SERVICE COMES TO YOU” E FLAT RATE GUARANTE

407.374.0233

bluekitecomputers.com

UPGRADES & REPAIRS VIRUS & SPYWARE REMOVAL DATA & PASSWORD RECOVERY WIRELESS & WIRED NETWORKING

Keeping You On the Road and Volvo Service & Sales

s.com sales@bluekitecomputer

SOLVING PROBLEM S SINCE 1990 TFN

ROOFING 4/28/16

CONSTRUCTION

Travis Hamric Branch Manager

$

75.00

oil, lube, Includes up to 7 qts. full synthetic See store & filter. Tax and recycling fee extra. offers. for details. Not valid with any other 6/30/15.

Expires 12/31/15.

Autos Wanted

Mention this ad for

10% OFF your rental

239735

35K Miles 1 Owner Loaded with Options Clean CARFAX History Report $47,885

Call 407-718-7956

RECOVERY WestOrangeRoofing.com 8920 & WIRED 407-656WIRELESS G ESTIMATES NETWORKIN FREE

sunbel trental s.com

CASH GIVEAWAY

FINANCING AVAILABLE

407.614.5962

Keith Keller

LIVELINKS IS the best chatline for meeting real, fun-loving singles. Call 855-334-7726 and make a REAL connection. fcan5/11

for Monthly Specials FREE DELIVERY, Visit our Website fl.com 407-380-7133 www.certifiedbuildingsystems 8001 E. Colonial Dr., Orlando,

FL 32807

Email: keithksj@cfl.rr.com Ocoee, FL 34761

VIAGRA!! 52 Pills for Only $99.00. Your #1 trusted provider for 10 years. Insured and Guaranteed Delivery. Call Now 1-800-224-0305 fcan 5/11

Restaurants

Free recorded message

239723

Schools/Instruction

239248

Held on Saturday, May 13th from 7:00 AM to Noon Community located in Gotha at the intersection of Old Winter Garden Road and Carolina Avenue

ARCHITECTURAL SALVAGE sale - 95 year old home in Oakland. Home will be open May 19th 27th, 9AM-3PM. Call first 407-432-7466 or 321276-5812. 35 W Briley Ave., Oakland.

5/18ss COMMUNITY GARAGE Sale- Magnolia Park of Windermere (Winter Garden-Vineland Rd.) Friday & Saturday, 8 AM until 2 PM. Dishwasher, microwave, chandeliers, household goods, luggage, Casio keyboard, plush toys, shoes, purses.

5/11aw

ESTATE SALE - 3249 Furlong Way, Gotha. May 11, 12 & 13. 8AM-3PM. 5/11js

239727

Help Wanted

Every Sunday

DRIVER TRAINEES Needed NOW! Become a driver for Werner Enterprises. Earn $800 per week!

Local CDL Training 1-877-214-3624 fcan 5/11

BINGO

1701 Adair St. Ocoee Doors Open 2pm. Games 3 pm.

407-592-4498

KILLS ROACHES-GUARANTEED! Buy Harris Roach Tablets or Spray. Odorless, Long Lasting.

Available: Hardware Stores, The Home Depot, homedepot.com. Try Harris Bed Bug Killers Too! fcan 5/11

.5 1BSUOFST '-

This week’s Celebrity Cipher answers Puzzle One Solution: “It’s not easy being a mother. If it were easy, fathers would do it.”

– Dorothy (Bea Arthur) on “The Golden Girls” Puzzle Two Solution: “When you look at your mother, you are looking at the purest love you will ever know.”

– Mitch Albom

This week’s Sudoku answers

LANDSCAPE PLANT Nursery Hibernia nursery, Located in Altamonte Springs is looking for general nursery help. Must have a knowledge of landscape plants and past nursery work history. Duties are loading, offloading trucks, pruning, weeding and mowing. $10.00 per hour plus overtime. Drug free work place. Please call David 352 267 5149 or come to 1310 McNeil Rd, Altamonte Springs. hn RESERVE POLICE Officer - Police Dept – Town of Windermere is accepting applications for a Reserve Officer Position. For more information go to town.windermere.fl.us. DFW and EOE. 5/18

©2017 NEA, Inc.

This week’s Crossword answers MEDICAL RECEPTIONIST - part time in podiatry office. All day Monday, Tuesday, & Thursday. 21 Hours. Must have comp skills & calm, welcoming personality. Fax resume to: 407-578-9944

GARAGE SALE - Friday, May 19 & Saturday, May 20, 7AM - 3PM. 206 Faulkner St, Traditions at Winter Garden. New and gently used treasures not trash.

5/18mp

Homes For Sale

MUST SELL

• Fixer Uppers • Bank Foreclosures • Company Owned Properties • Distress Sales Free List with Pictures 239724

YARD SALE - Stoneybrook West Self Storage. Saturday, May 13. 8AM - 1PM. 1650 Avalon Rd, Winter Garden. 407-654-3037.

5/11ag

AIRLINE SERVICE DISPATCHER - Get FAA approved training in weeks not years to become a certified aircraft dispatcher. Job placement assistance. Call AIM 888-242-2649. fcan 5/11

Announcements

239720

COMMUNITY YARD SALE LAKE FISCHER ESTATES

407-656-3495

239725

239722

SCRAP BATTERIES

Garage/Moving/Estate Sales

1-800-2 8-3885, ID #1041

W. Hwy. 50 at Dillard

NOW PURCHASING

from $1800

Find out what the home down the street sold for.

Free computerized list with pictures of area home sales and current listings. www.WinterGardenSalesReport.com

Health & Medical

13178 W. Colonial Dr. Winter Garden

Good running driving cars

+ Homesellers +

President CCC1325778

Merchandise Wanted

Autos Wanted

Homes For Sale

al • Tile • Metal

Residential • Commerci

1000 Offer ends 8/31/15

TFN

Announcements

Ask About Our

$

240481

239736

2014 RAM 3500

Streamer Sport Power wheelchair $500.00

UPGRADES & REPAIRS Since 1978 VIRUS & SPYWARE Premier Roofing Company Winter Garden’s REMOVAL County Serving All of West Orange and Replacement Roof Repairs DATA & PASSWORD Fully Licensed and Insured

(407) 654-9516 Office (407) 491-0355 Mobile (407) 654-0145 Fax pcm050@sunbeltrentals.com

SYSTEMS CERTIFIED BUILDING

TFN

RENT TO OWN

407-654-5313

407-654-5313

1081 9th Street Winter Garden, FL 34787

FULL SYNTHETIC OIL CHANGE

General Merchandise

2006 MONACO CAYMAN 53K Miles 2 Slide Outs Very Spacious Interior Clean Inside and Out $59,995

TFN

www.puppydreams.com

www.WinterGardenDistressHomeSale.com or 1-800-268-3885, ID #1042 .5 1BSUOFST '-

240589

239688

a unique no-cage facility boarding daycare and overnight

No home parties risk No large financial provided Free and simple trainingfreedom and Lots of friends, fun

• ALIGNMENT • BRAKES E SERVIC • SHOCKS • OIL & LUBE • NEW & USED TIRES • REPAIR & BALANCING • ROAD SERVICE • WE INSTALL LIFTS!

Specializing in BMW, Mercedes

l Puppy Dreams Pet Hote

• BFG

MV03215

Thursday, May 11, 2017

ic.com

or www.MensMedicalClin

PET SERVICES

3.3" x 1" starting at $21.25 3.3" x 2" starting at $25.50 3.3" x 4" starting at $42.50

from home Your pet’s home away

www. budge tupul lit.co

• (407) 656-4575

TIRE VALUESTires

TFN

postage and handling. of pills don’t work for you, regardless (including your age or medical history you diabetes and prostate cancer) lady to owe it to yourself and your read this book.

Your ad here! • 407-656-2121 407-656-4707

MORE THAN JUST

• •

Call Toll Free (800) 960-4255

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 8AM - 5PM

CRAWFORD TIRE SERVICE, INC. • Bridgetone • Michelin • Toyo

FL 34787

WE BUY JUNK CARS WE BUY SCRAP METAL

credit

AUTO SERVICE

110 Taylor St. • Ocoee

mail the Dr. Kevin Hornsby, MD will this ad a first 37 men that respond to book free copy of his new thirty dollar Dys“A Doctor’s Guide to Erectile book will function.” He’s so sure this pay the change your life he will even

2017

240590

Licensed & Insured - State

• Quality • Service • Sales • Installation • Commercial • Residential

3 Business Card Sizes to choose from:

32 East Plant St. Winter Garden, FL 34787 877-222-5656 Bus. 407-877-0534 Fax. Cell. 352-242-7063 m andrew.katsanis@edwardjones.co www.edwardjones.com

Garden 1045 S. Vineland Rd. •Winter nt • New and Used Tires • Alignme • Complete Auto Repair • A/C Serv. & More

Call Billy 407-948-2723

Keith Keller

FINANCIAL SERVICES

UED AUTO SERVICE CONTIN

CK'S TRAYWI AGE

TFN

ThurstonAutoSales.com

407.614.5962

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

Here's My Card

ThurstonAutoSales.com

VIRUS & SPYWARE ?QV\MZ /IZLMV¼[ 8ZMUQMZ :WWÅVO +WUXIVa ;QVKM !

REMOVAL ;MZ^QVO )TT WN ?M[\ 7ZIVOM +W]V\a DATA & PASSWORD .]TTa 4QKMV[ML IVL 1V[]ZML :WWN :MXIQZ[ IVL :MXTIKMUMV\ RECOVERY Email: keithksj@cfl.rr.com President ̆ ̆ WIRELESS &! ?M[\7ZIVOM:WWÅVO KWU WIRED Ocoee, FL 34761 CCC1325778 NETWORKING .:-- -;<15)<-;

REALTORS

REALTORS

TFN 239679

Garbage Can Camouflage

31

THURSDAY, MAY 11, 2017

239668

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES ROOFING 239668

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

|

407.

Email Ocoe

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

|

STARTING @ Installed with Upgraded Pad

KARASTAN CARPET

$299 Starting @

$649 Starting @

Sq.Ft. Installed

$439 Sq. Ft.

The softest, most durable, easiest to clean carpet on the planet. TM

Sq.Ft. Installed with Upgraded Pad.

MOHAWK WOOD LOOK TILE

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, MAY 11, 2017

SPECIAL FINANCING AVAILABLE MOHAWK LAMINATE

$350 Starting @

Sq.Ft. Installed.

301-F E. Washington St. Minneola, FL 34715

352-394-0303

STOCKING CARPET

$199 Starting @

Sq.Ft. Installed

MOHAWK VINYL PLANK

$399 Starting @

Sq.Ft. Installed

3985 N. Hwy. 19-A Mount Dora, FL 32757

352-394-0303

www.MarksFloorsOnline.com

240439

32

HHH

THE STAR TIMES

Serving Winter Garden, Clermont and Windermere since 1959

HHH

Thursday, May 11, 2017

TONY HUBBARD REALTY

MAY FEATURED PROPERTIES

G4839901 ............................................................ $479,00 Kaley Hansen Realtor Coldwell Banker Tony Hubbard Realty Direct 352-250-4563 Office 352-394-4031

SPLASH INTO SUMMER 5/3.5 with 3100+ SF Custom Pool Beautifully updated

G4841797 ............................................................ $325,000 Andrea Summers Broker Associate,Realtor Coldwell Banker Tony Hubbard Realty Direct 407-267-2468 Office 352-394-4031 andreasummersrealtor@gmail.com www.centralfloridahomenow.com

LAKEFRONT PARADISE

4/3.5 on Lake Minneola, located on quiet cut-de-sac with no HOA. Completely updated kitchen, boat house, dock, seawall.This one is a must see!

G4841284 ............................................................ $615,000 Andrea Summers Broker Associate,Realtor Coldwell Banker Tony Hubbard Realty Direct 407-267-2468 Office 352-394-4031 andreasummersrealtor@gmail.com www.centralfloridahomenow.com

DIRECT LAKEFRONT

GATED TOWNHOME COMMUNITY WITH CHAIN OF LAKES ACCESS

4/2 on Lake Louisa, part of the Clermont Chain of Lakes. 4 car garage, 2 story boat dock

New construction. Lake access, community pool. A few models to choose from & more under construction. 3BR/2BA with 2 car garage. Upgrades throughout!

Community Video: https://vimeo.com/214861139

G4835939 ............................................................ $584,900

$194,000 - $220,000

Kaley Hansen Realtor Coldwell Banker Tony Hubbard Realty Direct 352-250-4563 Office 352-394-4031

Dawn Giachetti Realtor Coldwell Banker Tony Hubbard Realty Direct 352-874-2100 Office 352-394-4031

GORGEOUS LAKEFRONT HOME

4/3.5 Custom home w/3207 SF LIVING area. Directly on Lake Minnehaha. Resort like setting w/ sandy beach area, water dock & boat lift. Beautiful screened porches to enjoy. Breezes & views. Circular drive, wall of windows w/ lake views, soaring ceilings, brick fireplace. Live everyday like a vacation!

G4841255 ............................................................ $625,000

IMMACULATELY MAINTANED

4BR/2BA home with over 2100 SF. Contemporary colors. Fantastic floor plan. Formal living & dining, laminate flooring. HUGE kitchen tons of natural light!

G4841442 ............................................................ $225,000

1795 E. Hwy 50 • Clermont, FL 34711 • Office 352-394-4031 • Fax 352-394-5830

neighbors. Peaceful setting. Upgraded interior w/marble floors, granite counters.

Bonus room was orginally designed for home theatre, but also makes a great man cave or in-law set up.

G4841255 ............................................................ $799,000 Dawn Giachetti Realtor Coldwell Banker Tony Hubbard Realty Direct 352-874-2100 Office 352-394-4031

Dawn Giachetti Realtor Coldwell Banker Tony Hubbard Realty Direct 352-874-2100 Office 352-394-4031

Dawn Giachetti Realtor Coldwell Banker Tony Hubbard Realty Direct 352-874-2100 Office 352-394-4031

GATED COMMUNITY ON LAKE BUTLER SOUND 4/4.5 W 3844 SF living, gorgeous pool. ituated on ½ acre lot with no rear

ESTABLISHED WESTERN WEAR SHOP Established in 1992 Extensive inventory included in purchase Turnkey operation Direct frontage on highway 50

Richard Bisaillon Realtor, Licensed Agent since 1984 Coldwell Banker Tony Hubbard Realty Direct 407-257-9972 Office 352-394-4031 RichWithCB@Gmail.com

www.ColdwellBankerTonyHubbardRealty.com

241391

DIRECT LAKEFRONT

4/3 on Lake Minnehaha, located in prestigious Margaree Gardens.

Gorgeous views! Granite counter tops, stainless steel appliances. Comes with home warranty!

THE STAR TIMES • MAY 11, 2017

WWW.COLDWELLBANKERTONYHUBBARDREALTY.COM

CHRIS BAKER

Born and raised in Winter Garden, I have seen the area develop through the years giving me the knowledge of both the residential and commercial developments in and around West Orange County including Lake County (Clermont, Minneola and Groveland). As a Lieutenant Paramedic for Winter Garden Fire Department for the past 26 years, I enjoy working with First Responders, Police, and Military personnel. SELLERS... your home will be marketed, not just listed. Your home will be marketed as part of my innovative “Every Day Until It’s Sold “program. BUYERS… be assured that you will be exposed to all the homes in the area that are in your price range and meet all your needs. You will have representation from the first time you see your new home, through negotiations, the escrow process, the closing process and thereafter.

Cell: (352)267-9316 E-mail: bakerc2424@gmail.com

Let’s make that dream come true, contact me today to get started.

REALTOR

• Third Generation Selling • Top 11% of Coldwell Banker Agents worldwide • Multi-Million Dollar Producer

TONY HUBBARD REALTY

www.ClemontsRealtor.com Email: KaleyRHansen@gmail.com

Kaley Hansen 352-250-4563

Please view the VIDEOS for these homes at http://vimeo.com/home/myvideos Just 10-15 minutes to the west. Take a look at these affordable lakefront homes: 1. 1920 BRANTLEY CIRCLE..........G4838906 ..... $1,275,000 2. 1978 BRANTLEY CIRCLE..........G4841255 .........$650,000 3. 1224 FIREMANS CANAL ..........G4838042 .........$560,000 4. 9006 EDGEWATER DRIVE........G4838368 .........$590,000 5. 12708 LAKESHORE DRIVE......G4837246 .........$435,000 6. 1270 FRAN MAR COURT ..........G4840030 .........$300,000

Dawn Giachetti 352.874.2100

CBDawnG@aol.com

Call me to make an appointment for me to help you determine YOUR home’s value in current (GREAT) market conditions!

SOLD IN 3 DAYS!

Andrea Summers

407.267.2468 – andreasummersrealtor@gmail.com

240343

A Solid Marketing Plan + Unparalleled Service is a winning combination!

We would love to share how our services can benefit you.

WWW.COLDWELLBANKERTONYHUBBARDREALTY.COM

MAY 11, 2017 • THE STAR TIMES

AVAILABLE PROPERTIES LIVE THE TRILOGY LIFESTYLE

149 Bayou Bend. 1800 SF of luxury awaits you.

55+ gated community for active adults.

Call Bob 928-542-7122 $319,990 G4838444

2

3/2 POOL HOME

DIRECT LAKEFRONT

8

4/3, over 2400 SF in beautiful Bent Tree community. Vaulted ceilings, oversized screened deck.

Call Sally 321-247-2644 $286,000 G483785

$270,00

13

3/2 corner lot with lake views.

Community boat ramp.

Call Andrea 407-267-2468 or Linda 352-636-4624

COMMERCIAL LEASE

2719 SF .48 acres Call Pam Eddy 352-536-0622

19

LAKE LOUISA LAKEFRONT HOME

Boat dock/lift, 2 jet ski lifts PLUS separate dock over the water for relaxing & amazing sunsets. Call Dawn 352-874-2100 $560,000 G4838042

20

CANAL FRONT HOME LEADING TO CHAIN OF LAKES Bring your boats, kayaks & fishing poles.

Remodeled & ready for a new family Call Dawn 352-874-2100 $300,000 G4840030

22

I have over 12 years of experience in the Real Estate market.

With all the new changes in the market, I am up to date in making sure your Real Estate transactions run smoothly through the process and have knowledge of the surrounding area. I offer:

• FREE market analysis on your property • FREE marketing • FREE videos and pictures • NO transaction fees Call Pam Eddy for all of your Real Estate needs.

I work for YOU! 352.536.0622 Robo77013@aol.com

CLERMONT CHAIN OF LAKES

Custom home w/over 5,214 SF LIVING area.

Directly on Lake Minnehaha. Over the Water Dock w/tiki bar & boat lift. Call Dawn 352-874-2100 $1,275,000 G4838906

23

WANT TO OWN A FRANCHISE SALON?

ALMOST 1 ACRE W/LAKEFRONT ON LAKE MINNEHAHA

Three Salons for Sale.

Call Pam Eddy 352-536-0622

3/2, NO HOA. Sunsets, sunsets & more sunsets. https://vimeo.com/201883802 Call Dawn 352-874-2100 $435,000 G4837246

24

ENJOY SUNSETS FROM YOUR DOCK

Beautiful 3/3 with 30’ frontage on Clermont Chain. Granite, white sand beach, insulated windows, no HOA, workshop. Call Terry Mosley 352-551-6613 G4836254

Kristi Lowery Multi Million Dollar Producer

407-235-4920

kristilowery711@gmail.com

Love Where You Live

Time for a Fresh New Start!

Real Estate Opportunities are Everywhere!

Considering buying or selling?

Finding the right place for you and your family is a discovery process, and selling is best not done alone. Either way start by asking a Realtor® …find out the direction you want to go.

FEATURED LISTING:

878 Lake Brim Dr. Winter Garden, FL 34787 Former J&J Building Custom Model Home in Oakland Park Offered at $749,000 3710SF 5bd/4bth/2car

Multimillion Dollar Producer Gold Key Certified Custom Home Specialist

Winter Garden, Oakland Park, Windermere Clermont, Montverde, Minneola

Broker - Associate Multiple Multi Million Dollar Producer

18

Looking to BUY or SELL? Trust a local expert to help you. I have lived in West Orange County all my life so who better to help than me? I will negotiate the BEST deal for you and your needs. Call me today.

PAM EDDY

Vici Winn

GATED EQUESTRIAN COMMUNITY

8 Acres, no rear neighbor. Neighborhood boat ramp. Owner financing.

Call Richard 407-257-9972

17

$499,900

DIRECT LAKEFRONT LOT

12

$129,900

$247,500

Plantation style estate on 6+ acres 4/2.5 & over 3300 SF Call Andrea 407-267-2468 or Linda 352-636-4624

On Lake Desire. No HOA or time to build.

Almost ½ acre lot.

Call Dawn 352-874-2100 $65,000 G4810726

On Clermont chain of lakes w/ over 4000 SF living area, dock & lift.

Call Dawn 352-874-2100 $590,000 G4828368

Gated Community. 4/2, pool.

Zoned for weekly rentals.

Call Richard 407-257-9972

16

21

DIRECT LAKEFRONT HOME

LET THE TOURISTS PAY THE MORTGAGE

IMAGINE THE LIFESTYLE

Medical office 1 mile from Hospital 2008 SF - Beautiful Space Call Lisa Haynes 407-592-0385 $2800/Month G4839501

$255,000

11

$299,900

15

3/2.5 POOL HOME

CHAIN OF LAKES ACCESS HOME

5/3 & 3 car garage 3209 SF on fenced, corner lot Call Pam Eddy 352-536-0622 $298,000 G4838354

10

Very Private, wooded, NO Homeowner’s Association. Owner financing.

Call Richard 407-257-9972

Over 2500 SF 4/3 with den/office.

Spacious home with incredible view.

Call Sally 321-247-2644 $288,000 G4834816

6

BIG & BEAUTIFUL

VACANT LAND

Direct lake front on Clermont Chain 1.57 acres Call Pam Eddy 352-536-0622 $104,999 G4833172

. 10 ACRES NEAR TURNPIKE

LAKE VIEW HOME IN CLERMONT

14

5

Pool, 3/2.5 2719 SF on .48 acres Call Pam Eddy 352-536-0622 $299,900 G4823545

9

POOL HOME IN CLERMONT HILLS

From your front porch.

4/2 with 2428 SF Call Kristi 407-235-4920

4

CUSTOM BEAUTY REDUCED

5 acres. 1700 SF 25x36 workshop Call Pam Eddy 352-536-0622 $399,900 G4836593

4/2 on Lake Louisa part of the Clermont Chain of Lakes. 4 car garage, 2 story boat dock Call Kaley 352-250-4563 $584,900 G4835939

7

BEAUTIFUL LAKE VIEWS

3

Where YOU You Live LOVE Love WHERE LIVE

Considering buying oAsk r selling?

Considering buying or selling? me about my Free Finding the Free right pMarketing lace for you awith nd your family is Home Evaluations, Professional Phoa discovery rocess, and scustomer elling is best service. not done Specialist tography and Video, pand stellar alone.

Either way start by asking a Realtor® Oakland Park, Winter Garden, and Clermont. …find out the direction you want to go.

FEATURED LISTING:

Your Dedicated Realtor, Today, Tomorrow… For Life. ~ Nicci Meyer

Text, call or email 407.913.1131 niccimeyer@live.com

352-406-1795

viciwinn1005@gmail.com www.viciwinnrealtor.com

Kristi Lowery

Tony Hubbard Realty

878 Lake Brim Dr. Winter Garden, FL 34787 Former J&J Building Custom Model Home in Oakland Park Offered at $749,000 3710SF 5bd/4bth/2car

Your Dedicated Realtor, Today, Tomorrow… For Life.

~ Nicci Meyer “YOUR DEDICATED REALTOR, TODAY, LIFE.” Text, cTOMORROW...FOR all or email 407.913.1131 Text. call or email : niccimeyer@live.com Winter Garden, Oakland Park, Windermere Winter Garden, Oakland Park, WIndermere, Tony Hubbard Realty niccimeyer@live.com Clermont, M ontverde, Minneola 407.913.1131 Clermont, Montverde, Minneola

Multimillion Dollar Producer Multimillion Dollar Producer Gold KeyGold Certified Key Certified Custom Home Custom Specialist Home Specialist

240340

1

THE STAR TIMES • MAY 11, 2017

WWW.COLDWELLBANKERTONYHUBBARDREALTY.COM

Real Estate Bankruptcy Foreclosure Short Sale

BOYETTE CUMMINS & NAILOS ATTORNEYS AT LAW

352.394.2103

www.BCNLawFirm.com

KRISTY SAMPSON MORTGAGE LOAN ORIGINATOR NMLS 1465905

P: 407-473-4673 O: 863-937-8024 REROOFS • NEW ROOFS • ROOF REPAIRS • METAL • SHINGLE • TILE

www.ProformanceRoofs.com

Personal Face-To-Face Interactions Great Rates • Fast Closings Super Easy Pre-Approval Process!

Contact Us Today!

407-310-7804

• Dustin Estep • Frank Hessburg

Whether Purchasing Or Refinancing, Here Are Some Of The Loans We Offer: • Conventional

(Up to 95% loan to value)

• Jumbo • HomePath • HARP 2.0

• FHA • FHA

(Streamline refinance with no appraisal)

• VA • USDA

1310 E. Robinson St. • Orlando, FL 32801 • www.StreamlineFlorida.com

LIC #CCC1330971

WANT TO SECURE A MORTGAGE? WE ARE STEP ONE.

Knowing exactly what kind of loan you qualify for can be confusing. There are dozens of options and specific guidelines.

We are committed to finding you the best product at the best pricing.

240342

352-406-0302