11.01.18 The Observer

YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.

Observer

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

VOLUME 4, NO. 6

DISTRICT 44 Q&A

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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 2018

Wondrous occasions Who needs the Bat-Signal? Fall festivals attract plenty of superheroes! SEE 13-17.

A million dreams SEE PAGE 3

Church, school send supplies With the community’s help, Kensington Church Orlando and Windermere Prep delivered donations to hurricane victims in Panama City.

DANIELLE HENDRIX BLACK TIE EDITOR

YOUR TOWN TURN BACK YOUR CLOCKS Daylight saving time ends at 2 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 4.

Be sure to turn your clocks back one hour before going to sleep Saturday night.

The next daylight saving time begins Sunday, March 10, 2019.

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

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Postal Customer

Courtesy of Venardos Circus and Jeff Nelson Photography

Kevin Venardos and friends are bringing the Venardos Circus — complete with aerialists, jugglers, magicians and many more — to Horizon West in November. SEE PAGE 4.

O-Town West, Kerina earn P&Z recommendation Planning and Zoning commissioners voted to recommend that County Commissioners adopt the requested amendments for the projects.

ERIC GUTIERREZ STAFF WRITER

Two proposed development projects in Dr. Phillips are a step closer to breaking ground.

Orange County Planning and Zoning commissioners voted Oct. 18 to recommend county commis-

sioners adopt the future land-use amendments for the proposed Kerina Parkside Planned Development project and the proposed O-Town West project.

The Kerina Parkside PD encompasses a 215.67-acre parcel located SEE DR. PHILLIPS PAGE 2

TIE

SEE KENSINGTON PAGE 6

Kevin Venardos is the ringmaster, as well as one of the masterminds behind the circus.

REAL BLACK

Jen Dubasak has seen with her own eyes the devastation Hurricane Michael left behind in Panama City.

“Living in Florida, we’ve all seen hurricanes,” said Dubasak, a Winter Garden resident.

West Orange Habitat for Humanity gets creative with its annual Rock the House fundraiser. SEE PAGE 11.

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THURSDAY, NOV. 1

YOUR CALENDAR

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 2018

RETIRED EDUCATORS TO MEET 10 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 1, at College Park United Methodist Church, 644 W. Princeton St., Orlando. Joy Dickinson is the guest speaker for this Orange County Retired Educators Association meeting. Anyone who has worked in education is invited to join. Call (407) 366-8982 with questions or visit ocrea-fl.org.

FRIDAY, NOV. 2

A HAPPY HEALTHY YOU 8 a.m. Friday, Nov. 2, at Heller Hall, 21 E. Plant St., Winter Garden. The Winter Garden Heritage Foundation and Florida Hospital/ Advent Health will present the women’s program featuring speakers Stacy Butscheck, a midwife at Florida Hospital’s Loch Haven OB/GYN, and Doreen Forsythe, women’s health navigator at Florida Hospital for Women. This complimentary event includes a light breakfast featuring a blind orange juice tasting. Can you tell the difference between fresh and processed? RSVP at (407) 6563244 or email jzimmerman@ wghf.org.

CAREGIVERS WORKSHOP 10 a.m. Friday, Nov. 2, at Hope Counseling Center, 410 N. Dillard St., Suite 103, Winter Garden.

The role of caregiver can be rewarding, but it can also be overwhelming and exhausting.

This workshop will give caregivers tools for reducing stress, managing guilt and caring for themselves. RSVP at (407) 6545700 or angie@hopecounsel. com.

‘THE NUTCRACKER SUITE’ 7:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 2, and 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 3, and Sunday, Nov. 4, at the Garden Theatre, 160 W. Plant St., Winter Garden. Orlando Ballet’s 2018 production of “The Nutcracker Suite” returns to Garden Theatre. Tickets are $35 to $50 at gardentheatre.org, with discounts available for seniors, students, military and groups.

A Family VIP Experience for the Nov. 3 performance includes priority seating and a party with Orlando Ballet dancers before the show. Family VIP Experience tickets are $45 to $50 per person. Groups of 10 or more can receive a discount on tickets and should call (407) 877-4736, Ext. 208.

SATURDAY, NOV. 3

FALL FARM FEST 4 to 7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 3, at Do Good Farm, 12423 Marshall Farms Road, Winter Garden.

Experience a day of farming fun, enjoy live music and free tastings of nutritious “super foods,” learn about local farming and pet baby goats. Dogoodfarm.org.

SUNDAY, NOV. 4

POLKA DOGZ POKER RUN 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 4, in downtown Winter Garden, starting at The Whole Enchilada, 129 W. Plant St., and continuing with a map/punch card at Melts on Main, The Deli Downtown, The Tasting Room and Pilars. Players must visit each of the five stops to get a full hand and be eligible for prizes. There will be raffle and 50/50 tickets available and multiple prizes. Preregister at (407) 877-2222; entry fee is $20, with $10 per additional hand.

Dr. Phillips projects pass P&Z CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

east and west of South ApopkaVineland Road, south of Buena Vista Woods Boulevard and north of Lake Street. The applicant is requesting to amend the future land-use designation of the property from low density residential, low-medium density residential, and rural/agricultural to Planned DevelopmentCommercial/Office/Medium Density Residential/Low Density Residential/Senior Living/ Conservation (PD-C/O/MDR/ LDR/Senior Living/CONS).

The change would allow for the development of up to 450 single-family dwelling units; 350 multi-family dwelling units; 200 senior-living units; 100,000 square feet of commercial/retail; 50,000 square feet of office; a three-acre park; and 93 acres set aside for conservation.

The O-Town West project — also known as the Hannah Smith PD — encompasses an 84.32-acre parcel located north of Interstate 4, south of Fenton St. and east of Lake Ruby. The applicant is requesting to change the future land-use designation of the property from activity center mixed use, activity center residential, and low-medium density residential to Planned Development-Commercial/ Medium-High Density Residential to allow for the development of up to 1,800 dwelling units and up to 415,142 square feet of commercial space.

More than two hours of discussion took place — most in opposition to the Kerina proj-

ect — prior to the vote. Planning Commissioner Paul Wean raised concerns regarding the Kerina project’s compatibility with the surrounding area.

“It’s got to be compatible with existing development and development trends in the area,” Wean said, referencing a future landuse policy in the Orange County Comprehensive Plan. “It doesn’t meet the test of being compatible with the existing development.

My point is, if you’ve got nothing but residential and institutional use on South Apopka Vineland Road, how can you put commercial and office use down on South Apopka Vineland Road? Because that would be incompatible with existing development.”

Senior Planner Jennifer DuBois said because the proposed extension of Daryl Carter Parkway runs through the Kerina Parkside PD, the future land-use amendment is compatible with development trends in the area.

She added that the area needs retail in the area because the area is mostly residential.

“We believe there’s a need for additional goods and services and convenient shopping to meet the daily needs of overwhelmingly residential population in the area,” DuBois said.

“We feel that, currently, there’s a lack of convenient retail (and) professional office use to serve the daily needs of that residential population. Presently, they need to travel further outside of their community for goods and services.”

Additionally, Planning and Zoning Commissioner Jose

Cantero said the area lacks retail development.

“If you drive up and down Apopka Vineland Road from Old Winter Garden Road all the way to Downtown Disney or to I-4, all you see is houses,” Cantero said. “I can’t see how this type of neighborhood use is not needed. … On a compatibility perspective, I’m not of the same position as Mr. Wean.”

Jim Hall, of Hall Development Services, added the Kerina project does follow a development trend within the area. Two adjacent projects — O-Town West and the Ruby Lake Ranch Planned Development — are both proposed a mixed-use projects.

“The development trend is that it’s all going to mixed use,” Hall said. “That’s exactly what the comp plan envisions.”

Hall also commented on traffic and said the Kerina project could reduce traffic in the area because it includes a neighborhood center consisting of a grocery store, restaurants and other retail shops.

Chris Kopec was one of the residents who spoke about the Kerina project.

“They’re trying to turn this area of Apopka Vineland (Road) into another Sand Lake Road,” Kopec said. “If they do this (development) here and start slapping in restaurants, slapping in commercial (and) slapping in apartments, all you’re going to do is bring all the Disney tourists that don’t come up here right now into this area, and they’re going to turn it into another Sand Lake Road.”

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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 2018

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FLORIDA HOUSE DISTRICT 44 D

emocratic candidate Geraldine Thompson is challenging Republican state Rep. Robert “Bobby” Olszewski for the Florida House of Representatives District 44 seat.

Olszewski, 41, is a former Winter Garden city commissioner and

has served as the District 44 state representative since October 2017.

Thompson, 69, is a Windermere resident who has served three terms in the state House and two terms in the state Senate.

Thompson won the Aug. 28 Democratic primary for District 44,

while Olszewski ran unopposed in the 2018 Republican primary. Now, the two will face off during the Nov. 6 general election.

The early-voting period in Orange County is from Monday, Oct. 22 to Sunday, Nov. 4. For more information about early voting,

visit the Orange County Supervisor of Elections website at ocfelections.com.

Answers have been edited for space but not content. For complete, unedited answers, visit OrangeObserver.com.

pass this legislation, we ensured the conditions that allowed the assailant to commit these atrocities could not happen again, in addition to heavily investing in mental-health funding. It is important to make abundantly clear that nowhere in this legislation were we authorizing teachers to be armed in the classrooms.

BOBBY OLSZEWSKI

AGE: 41 OCCUPATION: Partnership consultant for Special Olympics Florida; adjunct professor EXPERIENCE: Current state representative for Florida House District 44; Winter Garden city commissioner EDUCATION: Bachelor’s degree, UCF; master’s degrees, Rollins College and Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University; doctoral degree, Northcentral University CITY OF RESIDENCE: Winter Garden WEBSITE: VoteBobbyO.com

What are three issues that are important to you?

I have been our advocate for sound public policy in Tallahassee that allows our community to meet its challenges and continue to grow in a way that meets the needs of our residents, businesses and communities. This starts with great schools, so our families can have access to innovative classrooms and teachers while keeping them safe and prosperous. ... A low-tax environment is key to a healthy and growing Florida economy. Lastly, we need secure communities where residents feel safe and their rights are protected.

What is the biggest challenge facing District 44?

Florida House District 44 is very unique in Florida, because of our world-class tourism and hospitality community attracting 72 million visitors last year, in addition to the revenue we generate for the state. As a basic principle, government does not create jobs, but it does create a regulatory and tax environment that attracts diverse businesses and helps private businesses grow through transparent legislation while investing in education and workforce development.

Do you think the Legislature should amend the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School Public Safety Act? If so, what changes should be made?

This past session, we passed the most comprehensive and effective school-safety bill our state has ever seen. ... With only two weeks to

Would you support a bill that gives local municipalities the authority to pass stricter firearms ordinances than what is allowed under state law?

This is exactly why the U.S. Congress needs federal legislation to take the lead on this important fundamental freedom outlined in the Bill of Rights.

The state has this authority, because it would be very difficult, just in Florida House District 44 alone, if Orange County, Orlando, Winter Garden, Ocoee, Windermere, Oakland, Lake Buena Vista and Bay Lake all had different interpretations of the Second Amendment. Considering there are 67 counties and 412 municipalities in Florida, taking this responsibility in current law from the state would not be something I could reasonably support.

What steps can be taken to diversify the economy?

Florida House District 44 is uniquely positioned with our world-class education and training available at UCF, Valencia College and Orange Technical College to invest today in our jobs of tomorrow. Additionally, the opportunity we specifically have with the Horizon West community is exciting, because we need true economic development opportunities to recruit and attract businesses and industries.

What is your plan for better environmental protections?

I fully support environmental protections. This past session, I voted to allocate an additional $50 million to expedite repairs on the Hoover Dike to reduce the spread of toxic algae; $80 million in beach-restoration projects; and nearly $50 million in the Florida Forever Program for the protection and acquisition of rural and conservation lands.

Why should small-business owners vote for you?

I brought back nearly $3 million in appropriations for our district in my first session. I will advocate for a lowtax environment where burdensome regulations are fought, rather than protected by politicians.

weapons and large-capacity magazines of ammunition.

GERALDINE F. THOMPSON AGE: 69 OCCUPATION: Museum founder EXPERIENCE: Former Florida state representative; former Florida senator; former educator, Orange County Public Schools; administrative experience, Valencia College.

CITY OF RESIDENCE: Windermere WEBSITE: electgeraldine.com

What are three issues that are important to you?

Three issues important to me include health care, education and the environment. Because of Florida’s large aging population, the state has a rapidly increasing need for health care. The health care industry can be enhanced by medical research, expansion of Medicaid and establishing Florida as a tourist destination for specialty care. Demand for water is set to increase by 55% by 2050.

We must develop policies regarding allocating water, tackling water pollution, and managing floods and droughts. Florida must adequately fund a quality education system to develop a prepared work force and attract high wage jobs.

What is the biggest challenge facing District 44?

The biggest challenge facing District 44 is transportation infrastructure that will allow residents and tourists to move from one location to another. Mass transit, including rail connectors, trails and pedestrian-friendly routes, will alleviate congestion and allow the district to capitalize on the local and visitor markets.

Would you support a bill that gives local municipalities the authority to pass stricter firearms ordinances than what is allowed under state law?

I would support a bill that gives local municipalities the authority to pass stricter firearms ordinances based on the needs of their communities.

What steps can be taken to diversify the economy?

To diversify our economy, we must continue to invest in aviation, aerospace, life sciences, medical research, pharmaceutical manufacturing, renewable energy, technology, defense, homeland security, computer components, lasers and transportation logistics.

What is your plan for better environmental protections?

Environmental protections must include conserving land adjacent to waterbodies. These lands serve as filters and barriers for pesticides, fertilizers and other pollutants. They generate clean water for the aquifer which provides 90% of our drinking water. Florida must also work with the Department of Environmental Protection to protect our air, water, land, and other natural resources. Protection of our environment should be insulated from politics.

Why should small-business owners vote for you?

Small-business owners should vote for me because during my previous tenure in the Florida Legislature, I sponsored a number of business-friendly bills that were enacted to allow Floridians to vote by mail which assisted the postal service. Another bill enabled low income individuals to use EBT cards at farmer’s markets, which expanded business for those merchants.

Do you think the Legislature should amend the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School Public Safety Act? If so, what changes should be made?

The Legislature should amend the School Public Safety Act to include a ban on military assault

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MEET THE CANDIDATES

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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 2018

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 / Matt Walsh, mwalsh@YourObserver.com Executive Editor / Michael Eng, meng@OrangeObserver.com Design Editor / Jessica Eng, jeng@OrangeObserver.com Community Editor / Amy Quesinberry, amyq@OrangeObserver.com News Editor / Gabby Baquero, gbaquero@OrangeObserver.com Sports Editor / Troy Herring, therring@OrangeObserver.com Black Tie Editor / Danielle Hendrix, dhendrix@OrangeObserver.com Staff Writer / Eric Gutierrez, egutierrez@OrangeObserver.com Advertising Executive Cyndi Gustafson, advertising@OrangeObserver.com

The circus will feature variety of acts, from aerialists and jugglers to magicians and comedy.

Business Development

The little circus that could

Kim Kowske,

DANIELLE HENDRIX BLACK TIE EDITOR

W

hen Kevin Venardos landed a job as ringmaster for the Ringling Bros Circus at age 22, he had no prior circus experience.

He was just a guy who liked to sing and dance.

But his new gig led to a series of experiences both on that show and others around the country, and it also led him to realize his passion for the circus and the artistry behind it. Now, he is the ringmaster of his own show — the Venardos Circus.

HUMBLE BEGINNINGS

After many years spent working with different shows, Venardos and his friends set out to build their own. This led to the birth of the Venardos Circus five years ago.

“We turned it (into a show) from a fair attraction in the beginning, and that’s how we were selling it,” Venardos said. “With time, I started to go and fulfill my real dream. Now more and more as I’m bringing on artists and their families, we’re also helping to bring communities together and build traditions. It’s something that is traditional — it’s got hundreds of years of age, the notion of the circus — but we’re reinventing it for the world today and an audience we’re delighted we’re finding.”

The Venardos Circus is more intimate than circuses of childhoods past — it’s in a tent but seats only 350 people. A raised stage sits in the center, and Venardos said it makes you feel as if you’re right next to the action.

“It’s intimate, it’s theatrical … my love of Broadway, where it all began, is the anchor point the whole show is hung on,” he said.

“We have aerialists, acrobats, magic, fire, juggling, balancing, all of the wonder and magic you’d hope for in the circus but with a Broadway twist.”

Photos courtesy of Venardos Circus and Jeff Nelson Photography

Fire-breathers and other pyro-centric acts will wow guests during the show.

Venardos’ circus also is unique in that the show does not include animals. In fact, attendees are awestruck to find that the whole two-and-one-half hour production and 40-week tour is put on by just 15 people.

“It certainly did not come about because of a desire to make a political statement,” Venardos said of his decision to not include animal acts.

“I love people who care for animals and have had the great fortune of working with absolutely astonishing animal caretakers and trainers.

However, I’m also a big believer that you can have an amazing show where you don’t need animals.”

Venardos describes the show as a combination between a Broadway show and a circus. The elements of production, talented acts and characters weave together to form “the little circus that could.”

“Four years ago, this was an idea, and in that time since we have transformed from a single

“It’s about having a wonderful time with people you love and even with people you haven’t even met.”

— Kevin Venardos

fair date at the L.A. County Fair to a 40-week national tour,” he said. “That’s no small feat and has meant the faith and hard work of a lot of wonderful people. It’s extraordinary what a small group of people can do. That’s a pretty impactful thing. All the attendees are welcomed on stage to take photos with the cast after the show. I think the interaction gives them context for all these young and young-at-heart minds that here’s a real, living example that they could follow their dreams, too.”

BRINGING THE MAGIC

As part of its 40-week tour, the Venardos Circus is bringing the magic of Broadway and the classic circus to Hamlin in mid-November.

“We’re the little circus that could, and we’re trying to find communities and venues that are growing just like us,” Venardos said. “We want to bring people out to the show. It’s one of the things the circus does — it brings people together. We’re definitely excited, as it’s our first time in the Orlando area. There’s so much that happens at the circus — the way the tent goes up, how we travel, what it’s like to live on the show and magi-

kkowske@OrangeObserver.com

VENARDOS CIRCUS — HAMLIN SHOWTIMES: Fifteen performances starting Thursday, Nov. 15, through Sunday, Nov. 25 WHERE: 16406 New Independence Parkway, Winter Garden TICKETS: $25 for adults; $15 for children 12 and under; free for children 18 months and younger with paying adult. Premium reserved seating ranges from $35 to $45.

INFORMATOIN: tickettailor. com/events/venardoscircus or venardoscircus.com

cally bringing people together as a result of that hard work.”

Doors open an hour before showtime with the interactive pre-show party, during which guests are encouraged to meet the cast, snap photos, play games and munch on classic circus snacks.

The main event runs for about 90 minutes, with a brief intermission.

And for Venardos, the general notion that the circus is dead simply isn’t true.

“P.T. Barnum lived a long time ago, and I find him fascinating and inspirational,” he said. “We remember him as this extraordinary figure, and we think of the circus and think of him. But he didn’t invent the circus — what he did was reinvented it and found new ways and used new technology and fresh passion to invigorate the audience. There will always be a desire for magic and wonder as long as there are beating hearts in the world, and there will always be a circus. The market, technology, how we do business and the cost of it all evolves, and we’ve got to adapt and change with it.

“I invite people I believe in to come and bring their talents to what we do,” he said. “When there are dedicated people who are passionately pursuing something, there’s nothing that couldn’t be done. … I’m more interested now in the people who have no idea about the circus than the ones who have been going their whole lives.

I want to connect with new audiences and get them excited about this magic. For me, it’s about having a wonderful time with people you love and even with people you haven’t even met.”

Creative Services Tony Trotti, ttrotti@OrangeObserver.com Customer Service Representatives Allison Brunelle, abrunelle@OrangeObserver.com Katie Rehm, krehm@orangeobserver.com

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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 2018

Kensington Church spearheads drive CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

“You get so used to it, but I was completely shocked that it looks more like a tornado came in and wiped everything out. It’s literally changed the landscape, and it’s not just Panama City. It’s Panama City and the surrounding areas. I would say there’s a good 40-mile radius that’s just been devastated.

Almost every single tree is down, lines are hanging down, signs from businesses are gone, it looks like a tornado came in. There’s no words to describe it.”

Dubasak’s parents and brothers live in Panama City. Her parents’ house was left uninhabitable, as was her older brother’s home. A tree fell on her other brother’s house. After she saw the damage, she returned to Winter Garden and spoke with her pastor at Kensington Church Orlando about it.

“The church found out about (the devastation), and they had been asking how they can help,” she said. “We have another friend of the church that said, ‘Hey, we know someone (who) has a semi truck, and if you want to try to fill it we can donate that.’ Everyone felt that we had to do something.”

Kensington Church Orlando meets at Windermere Preparatory School each week, and Windermere Prep agreed to let the church park the semi on campus for a week and to help collect donations for the hurricane victims. Church members, school families and the community were invited to donate new or gently used items that would be deliv-

ered straight to hurricane victims. Collections were taken from Oct. 20 to 28.

“It was one of those things that is just amazing,” Dubasak said.

“We were all kind of like, ‘OK, wow, we have a semi to fill.’ We started getting donations from Michigan and from all over, and some people sent cash to buy things to fill it up. We had plywood, generators, wheelbarrows. … People collectively got their families and went out and brought stuff in. It was amazing to see all throughout the week.

It wasn’t just canned food here and there. It was huge items that people wanted to jump in and collect.”

Everyone from Girl Scouts and church members to local businesses and residents pitched in to pack the semi, and as word spread, more people jumped on board to help. From pet food and bottled water to plywood, chainsaws and tarps, enough items were collected to fill half of the semi, packed from floor to ceiling.

“Luckily, we had a couple of the guys with our church (who) researched and talked to the truck driver, who were there daily and helped pack it in (properly),” she said. “They figured it out, and it was literally from the floor to the ceiling that they put items. We saw the truck, and we were surprised at how much room there was. It’s a 63-foot truck, and once you pack all the things in there top to bottom, there was more space than we thought. They did a great job packing it in, and they were everywhere from young to

Courtesy Jen Dubasak

Kensington Church Orlando and Windermere Prep were happy to work together and help pack this truck full of supplies for hurricane victims in Panama City.

old helping pack things each and every evening.”

The truck left Monday, Oct. 29, for its destination at St. Andrew Baptist Church in Panama City, which currently is serving as the donation and relief hub for some of the most devastated surrounding areas. With the help of other organizations, the church has been able to feed people and offer T:10.375”

a place for victims to “shop” for necessities, take showers and do laundry.

“That’s a beautiful thing to see,” Dubasak said. “People chose to live there (in Panama City).

Generations have lived there, and it’s all mom-and-pop businesses.

The majority of people there work at those businesses, so not only did they lose their home, they also

lost their place of employment.

“The people in that area have been nothing but appreciative of all the help coming in,” she said.

“Being there and getting to see the people getting donations and seeing that they’re just so grateful for it (is amazing). That’s what we’ve been telling everyone. It’s a good feeling knowing we were able to do something.”

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1. To qualify for this offer, you must have a new or existing Platinum Savings account and enroll the account in this offer between 10/15/2018 and 11/16/2018. This offer is subject to change at any time, without notice. This offer is available only to Platinum Savings customers in the following states: CT, FL and NY. In order to earn the Special Interest Rate of 1.69% (Special Rate), you must deposit $25,000 in new money (from sources outside of Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., or its affiliates) to the enrolled savings account and maintain a minimum daily account balance of $25,000 throughout the term of this offer. The corresponding Annual Percentage Yield (APY) for this offer is 1.70%. The Special Rate will be applied to the enrolled savings account for a period of 12 months, starting on the date the account is enrolled in the offer. However, for any day during that 12-month period that the daily account balance is less than the $25,000 minimum, the Special Rate will not apply and the interest rate will revert to the standard interest rate applicable to your Platinum Savings account. As of 09/18/2018, the standard interest rate and APY for a Platinum Savings account in CT, FL and NY with an account balance of $0.01 to $99,999.99 is 0.03% (0.03% APY) and with an account balance of $100,000 and above is 0.05% (0.05% APY). Each tier shown reflects the current minimum daily collected balance required to obtain the applicable APY. Interest is compounded daily and paid monthly. The amount of interest earned is based on the daily collected balances in the account. Upon the expiration of the 12-month promotional period, standard interest rates apply. Minimum to open a Platinum Savings account is $25. A monthly service fee of $12 applies in any month the account falls below a $3,500 minimum daily balance. Fees may reduce earnings. Interest rates are variable and subject to change without notice. Wells Fargo may limit the amount you deposit to a Platinum Savings account to an aggregate of $1 million. Offer not available to Private Banking, Business Banking, Wholesale or Wealth customers.

2. Annual Percentage Yield (APY) is effective for accounts opened between 10/15/2018 to 11/16/2018. The 11-month New Dollar CD special requires a minimum of $25,000 brought to Wells Fargo from sources outside of Wells Fargo Bank N.A., or its affiliates to earn the advertised APY. Public Funds and Wholesale accounts are not eligible for this offer. APY assumes interest remains on deposit until maturity. Interest is compounded daily. Payment of interest on CDs is based on term: For terms less than 12 months (365 days), interest may be paid monthly, quarterly, semi-annually, or at maturity (the end of the term). For terms of 12 months or more, interest may be paid monthly, quarterly, semi-annually, or annually. A fee for early withdrawal will be imposed and could reduce earnings on this account. Special Rates are applicable to the initial term of the CD only. At maturity, the special rate CD will automatically renew for a term of 6 months, at the interest rate and APY in effect for CDs on renewal date not subject to a Special Rate, unless the Bank has notified you otherwise. APY shown offered at Wells Fargo Bank locations in CT, FL, NY and WA. Due to the new money requirement, accounts may only be opened at your local branch. Wells Fargo reserves the right to modify or discontinue the offer at any time without notice. Offer cannot be: Combined with any other consumer deposit offer, or reproduced, purchased, sold, transferred or traded. Minimum new money deposit requirement of at least $25,000 is for this offer only and cannot be transferred to another account to qualify for any other consumer deposit offer. If you wish to take advantage of another consumer deposit offer requiring a minimum new money deposit, you will be required to do so with another new money deposit as stated in the offer requirements and qualifications. 3. The Portfolio by Wells Fargo program has a $30 monthly service fee, which can be avoided when you have one of the following qualifying balances: $25,000 or more in qualifying linked bank deposit accounts (checking, savings, CDs, FDIC-insured IRAs) or $50,000 or more in any combination of qualifying linked banking, brokerage (available through Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC) and credit balances (including 10% of mortgage balances, certain mortgages not eligible). If the Portfolio by Wells Fargo relationship is terminated, the bonus interest rate on all eligible savings accounts, and discounts or fee waivers on other products and services, will discontinue and revert to the Bank’s then-current applicable rate or fee. For bonus interest rates on time accounts, this change will occur upon renewal. If the Portfolio by Wells Fargo relationship is terminated, the remaining unlinked Wells Fargo Portfolio Checking or Wells Fargo Prime Checking account will be converted to another checking product or closed.

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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 2018

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Orange County leaders held a community meeting Tuesday, Oct. 25, related to a proposal to add commercial uses to a previously approved residential development in Dr. Phillips.

The applicant, Adam Smith, of VHB, is requesting to change the future land-use designation of a 16.72-acre parcel from Planned Development-Low-Medium Density Residential (PD-LMDR) to Planned Development-Commercial/Low-Medium Density Residential (PD-C/LMDR). The parcel is located west of Palm Parkway, east of Lemon Lake Boulevard and south of Fenton Street and the proposed Daryl Carter Parkway extension. Additionally, the subject property is a portion of the 244.86-acre Ruby Lake Ranch Planned Development.

Because the subject property is part of the established Ruby Lake PD, it already is entitled for the development of up to 156 townhouses. The applicant’s requested future land-use change would allow for the development of a project that features 156 townhouses and/or 200,000 square feet of office space and/or commercial space, said Senior Planner Jennifer DuBois.

“They’re asking for the flexibility to include non-residential uses within that portion of the Ruby Lake Ranch PD,” DuBois said, adding the proposed change also allows for a mix of both resi-

I N D E P E N D E N T

The subject property of the Ruby Lake Ranch PD is located west of Palm Parkway, east of Lemon Lake Boulevard and south of Fenton Street and the proposed Daryl Carter Parkway extension.

dential and non-residential use.

“They could develop the property as townhomes. They could develop the remainder (of the property) that’s not developed as townhomes for commercial (use) and/or office not to exceed the 200,000 square feet.”

Smith is requesting the change because of developments near the property, including Unicorp’s O-Town West project.

“Sitting on the sidelines watching that (proposed development), we were just thinking, ‘Let’s provide some flexibility for our project to maybe use some commercial use within this corner (of the Ruby Ranch Lake PD) as well,’” Smith said. “It could be retail; it could be office; it could still be residential.”

DuBois added the requested

change is retaining the low-medium density residential designation, so there would not be any additional density impacts outside of what already is approved for the property.

District 1 County Commissioner Betsy VanderLey said just because the applicant is making the request does not mean it will be approved.

“They’re asking to reserve some uses that they think might be appropriate for the developing patterns that seem to be developing around them that are not yet approved either,” VanderLey said.

“That’s why they’re keeping their residential use. Because if something falls apart on some of the potential developments around them, they’re going to revert back to plan A.”

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ARTS + CULTURE

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 2018

ORANGEOBSERVER.COM

PLAYING WITH FIRE

The SoBo Gallery and Art Center is celebrating its five-year anniversary and exhibition opening, featuring its latest exhibit, “Artists on Fire — Rekindled.”

ERIC GUTIERREZ STAFF WRITER

W

hen the Winter Garden Art Association launched the SoBo Gallery and Art Center, members of the association didn’t know what to expect from the local artist community. When the gallery first opened, it barely received enough art submissions to fill up the walls for the its first show.

“When we first started, we were so nervous about what art we got,” said Mary Keating, coordinator of exhibitions at the SoBo Gallery, a founding member of the

Painter Susan Grogan painted this Phoenix head, called “On Fire,” in honor of the SoBo Gallery and Art Center’s five-year anniversary.

Winter Garden Art Association and the vice chair of the Art Association Board of Directors. “There were 30 to 50 entries (for the first show) … and we can put about 60 to 70 pieces in (the gallery).”

Five years later, the gallery has the opposite problem.

“Now we’re getting, consistently, 175 to 230 submittals every month,” Keating said. “We are more selective, however, it isn’t always your typical, beautiful fine art that always gets in. It depends on the theme (for the month). …

It breaks my heart to actually turn down (submissions), because I don’t want to be discouraging, but we turn down really fine pieces all the time.”

SEE SOBO PAGE 10

Courtesy

Painter Susan Grogan painted this Phoenix Head, called “Phoenix Rising,” to help promote the SoBo Gallery and Art Center’s five-year anniversary.

“The relevance of the phoenix is that, every so often, the phoenix will … decide to (change). So he puts himself out in the sun and lights himself on fire, and he comes out alive and in a new manner.”

— Mary Keating, coordinator of exhibitions at the SoBo Gallery

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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 2018

SoBo turns 5

TIE

10

IF YOU GO “ARTISTS ON FIRE — REKINDLED” WHEN: 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 8 WHERE: SoBo Gallery and Art Center, 127 S. Boyd St., Winter Garden WEBSITE: wgart.org

REAL BLACK

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9

The gallery is celebrating its five-year anniversary from 5:30 to 8 p.m., Thursday, Nov. 8, with the opening of its latest exhibition, “Artists on Fire — Rekindled,” at the gallery, 127 S. Boyd St. The exhibition will be on display through Dec. 29.

PHOENIX RISING John McGavin, Kerrin Nally, Kerry KcGavin, Candice Bowdish, Stephanie Ryan, and Rose and Steve Juan

Highball & Harvest’s Homestead Harvest 2018

Chefs Derek Perez and David Stevens, of Luke’s Kitchen & Bar Left: Chefs from Norman’s Restaurant kept the food coming.

M

embers of Florida’s culinary community had their finest foods on display for the second annual Homestead Harvest fundraiser on Friday, Oct. 26. The event, hosted by Highball & Harvest and held at the Grand Lakes Orlando’s Whisper Creek Farm, had more than a dozen chefs from a number of Florida restaurant’s and eateries serving up a variety of delicious cuisines to hungry guests. The night benefited Fleet Farming and Frog Song Organics, two organizations that support community farming and sustainable food-production systems.

— HARRY SAYER

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The gallery’s first show was called “Artists on Fire,” and was held Nov. 7, 2013. The theme of that first show paid homage to the history of the building the SoBo Gallery calls home — it used to be a fire station for the city of Winter Garden. This year’s anniversary theme, “Artists on Fire — Rekindled,” was chosen in honor of the first show, Keating said.

“It being a firehouse, we said, ‘Oh, we’ll just call it Artists on Fire, because we’re all excited,’” Keating said of the first show.

After deciding on the anniversary theme, the Art Association Board chose the symbolize the anniversary theme in the form of a phoenix. They asked painter Susan Grogan — who works with watercolors and alcohol ink — to paint a phoenix. Grogan’s painting, called “Phoenix Rising,” has been used to help promote the anniversary and is the featured art piece of the event. She also painted an up-close portrait of a phoenix, called “On Fire,” which also will be featured at the exhibition.

“The relevance of the phoenix is that, every so often, the phoenix will … decide to (change),” Keating said. “So he puts himself out in the sun and lights himself on fire, and he comes out alive and in a new manner. (This symbol) is very fitting for us, because we’ve been at this baby stage for five years, which we’ve been organically growing and we hope to continue to organically grow, but we’re at this stage that we have to get to the next level.”

Grogan has been exhibiting her work with the SoBo Gallery for about three years. She said her phoenix paintings are painted with alcohol ink, which is similar to watercolors but instead of

water, rubbing alcohol is used to thin and moisten the paint.

“It’s a little more abstract than a painting in watercolor,” Grogan said. “It will adhere to slick surfaces, so I painted (the phoenixes) on a paper called yupo … (which) is a plastic paper. The ink sits on the top of it so it’s very vibrant. It doesn’t soak into the fibers and it dries very quickly.”

Grogan added that most painters who work with alcohol ink paint abstract pieces, but she uses it to paint non-abstract images.

“A lot of people have painted in abstracts with that, and let it blend together and I thought, ‘Well, why can’t I paint an image with it?’” Grogan said. “When Mary (Keating) asked me to paint a phoenix for the show … I thought it would lend itself very nicely to the alcohol ink.”

A PLACE FOR ART

The Artists on Fire — Rekindled exhibition will feature 2D- and 3D-artwork. The only requirement for artists’ submissions is each piece must include “a touch of red,” Keating said.

“It will be a variety of subject matters and mediums,” Keating said. “All our symbols of fire (in the exhibit) is all about the passion of the art and the creativity of the soul.”

Keating added the anniversary exhibition also will double as the SoBo Gallery’s monthly exhibition opening event, which typically falls on the first Thursday of the month. Because of the gallery’s five-year anniversary’s falling on the second week of the monthly — and because the first Thursday in November follows Halloween — the Art Association Board chose to have the anniversary exhibition event also serve as the monthly opening event.

Since its inception, SoBo (Full name) has become much more than a place to display or view art.

With regular art classes, events and outreach programs, SoBo also has become a gathering hub for artists, art lovers and other members of the community.

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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 2018

11

REAL BLACK

TIE

OrangeObserver.com

Vocal Flash opened the evening with an incredible a cappella performance.

The Rotary Club of Winter Garden came dressed as the Griswalds.

Left: The “pole dancers” assembled a cute and comedic fishing-themed table.

West Orange Habitat for Humanity’s

2018 Rock the House

Charlie Roper and Becky Roper received a plaque for their sponsorship of WOHFH’s Green Oaks Row affordable-housing community from Alberto Herran and Marilyn Hattaway.

Orange County Commissioner Betsy VanderLey, one of the table judges, donned her judicial robes.

F

rom the Griswalds and social butterflies to construction workers and even a hint of Game of Thrones, table themes that Rock the House attendees put together were unique and creative. The second event, held on Saturday, Oct. 27, is one of the biggest fundraisers for West Orange Habitat for Humanity and encourages guests to be creative, enjoy a good meal and further support the organization. Guests also could buy bottles of wine, try their luck in the silent auction or bid on fabulous prizes during the live auction.

Elissa Byrd, Tiffany Thani, Trinity Leach, Pedro Barreto, Sandy Jodha, Jordan Brown and Kelly Hernandez did an awesome job volunteering.

ONLINE

See more at OrangeObserver.com

— DANIELLE HENDRIX

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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 2018

Junior Diabetes Research Foundation’s

12th annual Imagine Gala

T

he Junior Diabetes Research Foundation put on another successful fundraiser with its 12th annual Imagine Gala Saturday, Oct. 28. The event, held at the Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, raised funds for Type One diabetes research in the hopes of finding a cure.

Guests bid on lavish items in the silent auction during the cocktail hour before heading into the ballroom for dinner and a Fund a Cure segment.

REAL BLACK

TIE

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Andrea and Carla Ferrara

— HARRY SAYER

Above: Caryn Green, Kristin and Chris Coffey, Jenna Duvall and Kara Page

Clockwise from above: Lily Nuno, Pamela Hernandez and Estela Irigoyen The Joseph family had a blast at this year’s Imagine Gala.

Zach and Cindy Schaefer Steve and Lee Alexander

Celebrating 21 Years!

2018 Book Donations

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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 2018

13

MAGIC

ON THE MIDWAY

Elliott Rejon raced down a tall slide for the umpteenth time as he and his family enjoyed the Southwest Fall Festival.

The Southwest Fall Festival raises money for Holy Family Catholic School.

Aria Rothman tossed a ping-pong ball at rows of fish bowls in hopes of winning a goldfish.

Olive Turchin gasped as her sister, Marigold, let out a big grin while on this mini-dragon roller coaster.

I

t was a weekend of festive fun as locals enjoyed the 2018 Southwest Fall Festival at Holy Family Catholic Church.

From Thursday, Oct. 25, to Sunday, Oct. 28, visitors enjoyed a variety of rides, foods and games as they spent time with friends and families.

While kids had their fun time, there also were events for adults, such as a beer garden and live music.

— TROY HERRING

Fresh candy apples sit in a window display of a food vendor.

Kids screamed and hollered as they were dropped from high above on this ride.

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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 2018

Elicia Phaneuf and her dog, Tinkerbell, were joined by Mary Kennedy and Maddie McGouirk in representing the freshman cheer squad.

No tricks, just treats!

T he Windermere High parking lot was full, as were the hearts of children whose eyes lit up as their treat bags were filled with candy during the school’s Truck or Treat event Tuesday, Oct. 30. Current Wolverines manned tables and games as they represented teams and organizations, and future Wolverines paraded around in costumes as they played games and collected treats. FFA students ran a petting zoo complete with horses, goats, rabbits and more, the band showed off its tunes, and other clubs offered fun activities.

The Windermere High baseball team walked around as pirates and handed out “loot.”

Johnathan Chen petted Oliver, one of the FFA rabbits.

Right: Kristen Kushner held a jellyfish-decorated umbrella.

Emma Newcomer was the cutest Starbucks latte.

— DANIELLE HENDRIX

WOPA

West OrAnge POliticAl AlliAnce, inc: A non-partisan political committee, the political action arm of the West Orange Chamber of Commerce, formed to represent the best interests of West Orange County

URGES YOU TO:

Vote Early, By Mail or on Tuesday, November 6th!

Our endorsed candidates for the Elections: ORANGE COUNTY Christine Moore - District 2 Mayra Uribe - District 3 Susan Makowski - District 4 John Mina - Sheriff

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Vote YES on Amendment 3 Voter Control of Gambling Vote NO on Amendments 1, 2 and 4-13 (These issues are not appropriate in the constitution.)

Paid political advertisement by the West Orange Political Alliance, Inc.

Find us on Facebook for the latest news and endorsements!

For information call 407-656-1304.

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Proposed Amendments to Florida State Constitution

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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 2018

15

Superheroes, princesses spotted at Dr. Phillips school

Left: Best friends Aila Doyle and Piper Teixeira trick-or-treated together.

Below: Scott and Kirstin Arent dressed as Mr. and Mrs. Incredible.

Kaia Everett was stunning in her costume.

S

PTA President Katie Brown was all smiles with Rosemary Dugard, Gracie Brown and Abby Edwards.

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Turkey Lake Rd

tudents at Dr. Phillips Elementary got to do a trial run with their Halloween costumes, thanks to the PTA, as they trunk-ortreated in the school’s parking lot Thursday, Oct. 25. At least a dozen parents decorated the trunks of their cars with themes such as “Jurassic Park” and “The Incredibles” as they handed out candy to students. Costumes ranged from superheroes and villains to unicorns and video-game characters. Event sponsors were Bonefish Grill and King’s Pizza.

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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 2018

Christina Hanna rocked her Halloween costume as Wonder Woman in a power stance befitting the character.

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Advertise your Services or Events on this page weekly.

This page appears weekly in the Windermere Observer and online at orangeobserver.com.

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

Creative Outdoor Dining to Benefit Matthew’s Hope

Entertainment - Dueling Pianos • Emcee - Scott Maxwell For more information on sponsorships and/or to reserve your table visit: www.matthewshopeministries.org/Annual-Garden-Party www.facebook.com/matthewshopeministries or call 407-905-9500

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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 2018

Samantha and Valentina Feliciani enjoyed their time at the Windermere Halloween parade dressed as Harley Quinn and Superwoman.

Following the parade, families were invited to join hayrides around town.

Halloween hoopla W

indermere’s Parks and Recreation Department held its annual Halloween Costume Parade and Hayride, Saturday, Oct. 27, at Windermere Town Hall. Parade attendees enjoyed cookies and punch followed by story time and a chance to join a hayride around downtown Windermere. Following the event, children were invited to trick-ortreat at all the shops in downtown Windermere.

— GABBY BAQUERO

Yasmin and Dior Ilkhomi munched on Halloween-themed cookies dressed as Elsa from Frozen and the Black Panther from Marvel’s The Avengers.

Left: Vera and Jenni Astrup, dressed in a traditional Germaninspired dress and as a cute chick, enjoyed the sugar cookies distributed at the parade.

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WEST ORANGE OBITUARIES

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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 2018

DORRIS CARLISLE JOHNSON DIED WEDNESDAY, OCT. 24, 2018.

DONALD SIDNEY TAYLOR DIED THURSDAY, OCT. 25, 2018.

Dorris Carlisle Johnson, 92, of Winter Garden, passed away Wednesday, Oct. 24, 2018.

Born in Vienna, Georgia, Dorris and her sister, Ruby Jean, moved with their parents, Eunice and John Thomas (“J.T.”) Carlisle, from Cordele, Georgia, to Winter Garden in 1933.

Dorris attended Winter Garden Elementary School, and she graduated from Ocoee High School in the Class of 1943. She excelled in her studies, especially in literature and English, and she proudly never made a grammatical error of record.

Dorris loved growing up in West Orange County when citrus was king and orange blossoms still wafted through the air, a time when she, with her alluring smile and dry wit, evoked comparisons to Marilyn Monroe.

Not long after World War II, Dorris met and married Wilbur Johnson, which began a storybook romance that would span six decades and ended upon his death in 2008.

Dorris and Wilbur, who were unapologetically inseparable, were never ones to sit still — they were passionate about travel, collecting their ‘collectibles,’ bluegrass music festivals and friends. Always her own

It is with great sadness that the family of Donald Sidney “Don” Taylor announces his passing Oct. 25, 2018, following a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease.

A New Year’s baby born in 1931, Don was preceded in death by his parents, Sidney and Nellie Taylor.

Don leaves behind his wife of 67 years, Caroline Crowell Taylor; four siblings, Anne Lance, Edward Taylor, Peggy Pressley and Barbara Welch; four sons, Sid, Matt (Lori), Jim and Ben (Joe); six grandchildren, Genna Lute, Clay Taylor, Emily Best, Sarah Taylor, Alex Taylor and Preston Taylor; one greatgranddaughter, Caroline Best; and countless friends.

A stranger to no one, Don

person, Dorris exuded grace and kindness to others, which was her way of showing she was a woman of quiet, dignified faith.

She retired in the mid 1980s after a 40-year career with Florida Power Corporation.

Dorris is predeceased by her husband, Wilbur, and her parents.

She is survived by her sister, Ruby Jean Vandergrift (George Henry “Frog”); her sistersin-law, Helen Crittenden and Patricia Johnson; niece, Judy Nicholson; nephews, Earl Crittenden Jr. and Brian Crittenden; and great-nephew, Darren Crittenden; and great-niece, Devan Crittenden.

A celebration of this lovely soul was held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 31, at Temple Free Will Baptist Church, 1208 E. Story Road, Winter Garden, Florida.

In lieu of flowers, donations to Cornerstone Hospice Foundation would be quite kind: 2445 Lane Park Road, Tavares, FL 32778; or by phone, (352) 7426819. Beckerfamilyfuneral.com.

moved to Gotha, Florida, with his young family in 1959 to work at Martin Marietta Corp., where he retired after 24 years of service.

Don was active in both his church (Ocoee United Methodist Church) and his community, especially the Gotha Chamber of Commerce, where he was often referred to as the Mayor of Gotha.

Don served for four years as a trustee on the Board of Directors of West Orange Memorial

GREGORY LEE WINTERS DIED FRIDAY, OCT. 26, 2018.

Gregory Lee Winters, 84, of Windermere, beloved husband, father and grandfather, passed away Friday, Oct. 26, 2018.

Dr. Winters was born to Ruth Lazauskas and James Lee Winters on Oct. 4, 1934, in Baltimore, Maryland. Upon graduation from high school, he attended the pre-veterinary program at the University of Maryland.

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In 1955, he entered the School of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Georgia. After graduation, he joined the United States Air Force and served as base veterinarian at MacDill AFB in Tampa, Florida.

In September 1961, he opened the Pine Hills Veterinary Clinic in Orlando, Florida. In 1986, he built the Animal Clinic of Windermere. He retired in July 2000.

Dr. Winters was an avid tennis player until he became ill. In his younger years he loved waterskiing and scuba diving. He made many scuba trips to Central America, Mexico and the

Hospital (now Health Central Hospital) in the late 1970s. In 2003, Don and Caroline retired to the small town of Cruso, North Carolina, their home state, where he continued to serve others through the Cruso United Methodist Church and Meals on Wheels.

Don will be fondly remembered for his loving, friendly and helpful nature; his love for fishing, hiking and stewardship to nature in the world; his love for his wife and family; and his kind, warm and giving smile.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 24, 2018, at the Cruso United Methodist Church at 11653 Cruso Road, Canton, NC 28716.

Refreshments and a time to visit with family and friends will follow directly after the service.

Keys. He and his wife, Cherry, of 61 years, loved to travel. They visited most of the United States and much of Europe and South America. Their most treasured memories were of their three trips to Africa.

Dr. Winters was a member of Kappa Alpha Order. He was a past president of the Central Florida Veterinary Medical Association, and he was also a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association.

Dr. Winters is predeceased by his son, James Gregory Winters.

He is survived by his wife, Cherry; his daughters, Lee Anne Kline, of Windermere, and Elizabeth Paige Winters, of Daytona Beach; his grandchildren, Krista Marie, Daniel Christian and Victoria Lee, of Windermere; and his brother, James Dudley Winters and his wife, Caroline, of Baltimore, Maryland.

A celebration of life will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 3, at Woodlawn Memorial Park and Funeral Home.

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HIGH

SPORTS

1

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Windermere Prep’s Artem Yalovenko is a senior on the school’s varsity golf squad. Page 20.

Remembering

Rick Piesko

For the first time since 2009, the Dr. Phillips boys cross-country team found itself at the top of the podium after winning the Class 4A, District 4 title. Senior Josh Matzner led the Panthers by picking up an individual title (16:53.52).

SPORTS EDITOR

2

3

4

Just like their counterparts on the girls team, the Windermere boys cross-country took first place at the Class 4A, District 3 meet at West Orange. The Wolverines had four runners finish in the top 10, including Onix Ortiz (second, 16:19.62), Liam Pirie (fifth, 16:48.39), Noah Ellenback (seventh, 17:01.55) and Carter Rowe 10th, 17:20.98).

5

It was a good day for The First Academy girls golf team at regionals (Class 1A, Region 4) at Falcon’s Fire Golf Club as the Royals took home first place with a score of 285. The Royals’ win was helped along by a one-twothree finish by Ariel Yu (67), Taylor Zheng (71) and Meyil Yan (72).

Welcome to the show

TROY HERRING

On the girls side at the Class 4A, District 3 meet at West Orange, the Windermere girls crosscountry team picked up a district championship — beating out secondplace East Ridge by nine points. The Wolverines were led

by Christina Fleming, who finished seventh (21:25.47).

In the Class 4A, District 4 swim meet at East Ridge, the Olympia girls swim team dominated the competition as they finished first overall.

The Titans took wins in the 200 medley relay (1:55.11) and diving (Kara Holt, 486.60).

SIDELINE SCENE

Rick Piesko was a longtime Cubs fan, father of two and a devoted volunteer for Dr. Phillips Little League.

TROY HERRING SPORTS EDITOR

L

ike any community-based sports organization, the Dr. Phillips Little League is one big family.

This week, that family — and those around the Dr. Phillips area — is mourning the loss of one of their own.

Softball manager Rick Piesko died Wednesday, Oct. 24, of a sudden heart attack — he was 48. Piesko leaves behind his two daughters Lauretta, 15, and Sophia, 8. His viewing and funeral were held Wednesday, Oct. 31, at Holy Family Catholic Church.

“He was an amazing dad — he loved his kids more than anything in the world, and he did everything for them,” said Deanna Piesko, Rick’s ex-wife. “He coached our youngest daughter’s, Sophia’s, softball team the past three or four years. He loved softball, and he loved Dr. Phillips Little League.

Both of our kids have played with Dr. Phillips Little League.”

The love for his daughters is actually what got Rick — a longtime sports fan — into coaching softball for DPLL in the first place.

After Lauretta and Sophia decided they wanted to try out for softball, Rick Piesko dived headfirst into the opportunity; he was that kind of a father.

A few years ago, Rick Piesko took up the mantle of manager for the 6- to 8-year-old coach-pitch softball team for DPLL, where he SEE COACHING PAGE 20

Rick Piesko, who managed Dr. Phillips Little League’s 6- to 8-yearold coach-pitch softball team, died suddenly Wednesday, Oct. 24.

Courtesy photos

The DPLL softball team was an important part of the final years of Rick Piesko’s life.

If you’re thumbing through the sports section right now, you may have noticed a different name in the byline — my name, as a matter of fact.

Although my name may appear rather alien, I’ve actually helped cover numerous sporting events for the West Orange Times & Observer since I first moved to Central Florida last year.

Remember Dr. Phillips’ state title game at the end of last year? Yep, I was on the sidelines covering that. Shoot, I even won first place for the online photo gallery from that game by the Florida Press Association.

I know that probably doesn’t help you at all, so let’s sit down for some story time.

Like I said, I moved down to the area in June 2017 from my home in North Carolina to take an associate editor job at the Winter Park/Maitland Observer — a sister paper to the West Orange Times & Observer.

Until a week or so ago I did just about everything you can ask a journalist to do — write, photograph, edit and cover events ranging in subject matter.

But the one thing I enjoyed the most about my job was covering sports — it became my beat.

Although I worked on different topics, I became the go-to guy to shoot and write sports, because I had years of total immersion into the field that I’ve been obsessed with since I was a kid. It also helped that I had the photo equipment required to battle the generally terrible lighting at high-school sporting events.

So when the sports editor position opened here, I jumped at the opportunity. Working on and overseeing my own sports section has been something that I’ve been aiming for a long while now — it’s what first got me started in the field of journalism almost 14 years ago.

Growing up in a small town like Mount Olive, North Carolina — which sits about halfway between Raleigh and Wilmington — sports were one of the few things that kept me entertained.

Now don’t get me wrong, I have several passions — I’m a huge fan of good music, comSEE NEW PAGE 20

SPORTS SPOTLIGHT

OBSERVER

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OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 2018

Coaching with a heart

SPONSORED BY SHANNON TILL STATE FARM IN FOWLER GROVES

Artem Yalovenko

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 19

got to coach Sophia for the last two years.

And if you ask anyone, including DPPL Board of Directors member Matt Grant, they will tell you that there was no person more perfect for coaching those teams than Rick Piesko.

“Little League, despite what many people want to make it is rec league — it should be fun — and Rick always had the right attitude,” Grant said. “He took it seriously, because he wanted the girls to have a good experience, but he never took it too seriously that it was anything other than what it was. This is rec league softball, everyone should be playing and everybody should be having fun. He made softball fun for all of his girls.”

Although his personality made him a great fit for his role as a softball coach, there was another trait that many in the DPLL community remember: his willingness to help.

Anytime DPLL needed help in anyway, Rick Piesko was the first person to raise his hand and offer assistance.

His reliability was known throughout the community, and it was always appreciated, said Lee Liddick, who has been coaching in the DPLL system the past two years and is currently taking over Grant’s job of overseeing softball.

“When I went to him and asked whether or not he would take the other (coach-pitch) team if we created a second team, there was no hesitation

Following a big win at regionals last week, senior Artem Yalovenko and the Windermere Prep boys golf team are doing big things out on the links. The Russian-born righty, in his second and final year with the team, is hoping to end his season strong before he takes to the course next year as a member of the UCF golf team.

When did you get into golf, and what got you started?

I got into golf when I was 8, turning 9, and prior to that, I played mini-golf. The reason why I got into it is because a golf course opened up near my house in Moscow, and my mom just sent me there. I don’t remember if I liked the sport, but I just continued on.

What do you consider to be your strength in golf — short or long game?

I think my strength is probably short game. If my long game isn’t good enough, I can probably up and down for birdie or par depending on how far the hole is.

Is there one big highlight moment that stands out for you during your time at Windermere Prep?

So far, it’s been winning the regionals (this year). I haven’t been on the high-school team for that long — I started last year. But one of our guys signed the wrong score card, so we lost by one shot going to states, but I made it as an individual so that was fine — I got seventh there.

Do you have a favorite course that you like to play?

I just played the British Junior, and I played Royal Portrush and Royal Portstewart, and I think by far these courses were my favorite places. It requires creativity, it requires dedication, and you have to think a lot on the course.

In what ways has coach Kyle McClone helped you as a player?

Kyle is a great coach.

He has been great at keeping me not too much in my head and keeping me smiling throughout the course,

THE BASICS BORN: Moscow, Russia RESIDES: Windermere SPORT: Golf YEAR: Senior HEIGHT: 5-foot-10

which I tend not to do so well.

Are you more of an aggressive type of player, or do you tend to be a bit conservative with your game?

I cant say that I’m aggressive, because I don’t hit it as far as Eric Berggren, but when I have the chance, I’ll probably go for it, because I hit it quite accurately.

What has been the most interesting difference between Moscow and here?

It’s just the mindset. The mindset, I don’t want to say depressing, but they like to dwell upon things. While here, you take life a little easier. I think there are positives to both sides — when you dwell on things, you can get better off of it, but also you don’t want too much of it.

What is your favorite meal?

I call myself a (omnivore), because I eat literally anything.

Recently I’ve tried waffles for the first time with apples and cinnamon, and those were pretty good.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 19

ics and general nerdiness (I will talk you to death about Star Trek and Star Wars) — but fewer things have had an impact on me quite like sports.

Some of my best and most vivid memories as a kid and as an adult have been around sports in some way or another.

Although I’m a raging fan of a baseball team that just finished one of the worst seasons in MLB history (Baltimore Orioles), I fondly remember crawling into my dad’s lap as a kid and watching the Atlanta Braves every summer night throughout the 1990s.

Then there were the times come March Madness, when teachers would roll a big-box television on a cart into the

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— TROY HERRING

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— he took it on,” Liddick said.

“And I noticed that with Rick over the past couple of years: Anything needs to get done, he was always there to do it.

“He was always the first one in line to put his hand up — he will take care of it,” he said.

“I never saw him late, he was always here early — he would help me get the field and stuff ready during his games. He was just that kind of guy. He is the epitome of someone you want in your organization when you’re dealing with kids.”

Although his time coaching softball was a big part of his life, his daughters were even bigger.

Any time he could spend with Lauretta and Sophia, he would, and they both knew the love and care he had for them.

His daughters always will have those memories of him, which for Lauretta happened the weekend prior to his passing.

“She said to me Thursday, ‘You know, I didn’t get to say goodbye to him, but I had the best day with him on Sunday — we got to go golfing and we had dinner,’” Deanna Piesko said. “‘And the last words that he said to me and I said to him was, ‘I love you.’ What more could I possibly ask for?’”

“This is rec league softball, everyone should be playing and everybody should be having fun.

He made softball fun for all of his girls.”

— Matt Grant

New post is a dream job

If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go?

I’ve been many places, but the one place I haven’t been to is like, Southeast Asia and Australia. I want to go to Vietnam, Singapore, and I’d love to go to Australia and Japan.

I’d love to explore the world a little more in Asia.

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room so we could all watch the ACC Tournament. For us good ol’ North Carolina folks, this was a rite of passage that still continues to this day.

Those early days helped ignite a flame that has since helped me build quite a portfolio and life for myself.

As a journalist, I’ve covered just about every sport imaginable — from middle-school football to the NFL to the Division II College World Series — and I have gotten the chance to walk the sidelines of numerous fields and courts from North Carolina to Alabama.

Speaking of Alabama, this is my chance to throw in the fact that I’m a Bama alum (MA ’16), and a raging fanatic of all things Crimson Tide — so, Roll dang Tide. Now I know what

you’re thinking, “Oh, it must be nice to be a fan of a team that wins all the time.” 1.) Yes it is, and 2.) All of my other teams (NC State, the Orioles and the Washington Redskins) have provided me with enough soul-shattering blows to keep me level-headed.

But general sports ramblings aside, what you should take away from this column is one simple thing: I love sports.

As the new sports editor at the West Orange Times & Observer, my plan is to continue the work of my friend Steven Ryzewski — who built an award-winning sports section here — and offer the community stories of which they can be proud.

See you on the sideline!

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OBSERVER

All games at 7 p.m. Nov. 2 unless otherwise noted.

WINDERMERE PREP VS. MASTER’S ACADEMY Of all the games going on this week, this is the matchup to watch. After a bye last week, the undefeated and well-rested Windermere Prep (8-0, 1-0) opens the SSAC playoffs with another powerhouse program in Master’s Academy (8-1, 0-1). Outside of a lone loss to Orlando Christian Prep, the Eagles have dominated every game, thanks in large part to an offense that has scored a whopping 47 points per game.

The offense is led by the onetwo knockout combo of senior quarterback Matthew Gillis (101-for-147 for 1,828 yards and 25 touchdowns) and freshman running back Terrance Gibbs (98 carries for 1,180 yards and 19 touchdowns). However, that offense will be put to the test against Windermere Prep. The Lakers’ defense has been one of the toughest units in the area — allowing a little more than eight points per game. On the offensive side of the ball, the Lakers are about on pace with the Eagles; they have scored about 45 points per game.

OLYMPIA (2-7, 2-2) AT WINDERMERE (2-6, 2-4) Although there is no playoff spot on the line for either school, that doesn’t mean there aren’t reasons to play to win.

Olympia will make the 7-mile trip to Deputy Scott Pine Community Park in a game that will see both teams vie for a third win on the year. For the Wolverines, this game will be about trying to avenge a 51-0 drubbing they received at the hands of the Titans last year. For the Titans, it will be a chance to end the season on a positive note.

If the Wolverines hope to pick up their third win in program history, Isaiah Jackson will have to keep up his pace of averaging 95 yards per game — which would help wear out and soften up an already-shaky Olympia defense.

FOUNDATION ACADEMY (7-2, 2-0) AT CARROLLWOOD DAY (5-4, 2-2) Coming off a high-scoring 61-41 win over West Oaks Academy, the Lions now have their sights set on a Patriots squad that has had an up-and-down year. The big match-up here is seeing how the Patriots’ offense can attack the Lions’ defense — which has given up about 16 points per game. In all seven of their wins, the Lions only have given up more than 10 points twice — although it should be noted that one of those wins was by forfeit over The Nation Christian Academy.

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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 2018

21

DP wins district, secures playoff spot TROY HERRING SPORTS EDITOR

D

r. Phillips needed to do one thing to clinch a playoff spot last Friday night: win.

And win the Panthers (5-5, 4-0) did, as they dismantled a hobbling Cypress Creek in a 55-0 blowout to win their 11th-consecutive Class 8A, District 5 title Oct. 26.

The Bears — who hadn’t won a game since the first week of the season — went into the game at 1-8 (0-4), while the Panthers were riding a twogame winning streak during which they outscored opponents 85-19.

Through four quarters, the Panthers dominated in every aspect of the game.

On offense, the Panthers spread the love around and racked up more than 400 yards of total offense, with eight different players scoring touchdowns. Quarterback Brenden Cyr tossed for 80 yards and a touchdown on 6-for-7 passing, while backup quarterbacks Canaan Mobley (4-for5, 100 yards and a touchdown) and Joe Joe Patti (4-for-5, 58 yards and a touchdown) also contributed. Together, the Panthers totaled 238 passing yards.

On the ground, the Panthers ran for 170 yards and five touchdowns on 19 carries.

Junior Nixon Holland led in rushing yards with one single run — a 43-yard scamper that helped put the Panthers up 21-0. Japerri Powell, Jacquez Jones, Brandon Fields and Christian Przybysz also added touchdowns.

While the offense was impressive on its own, the defense might be the bigger story. For the entire game, the Panthers only gave up a mindblowing 29 total yards and allowed just one first down.

Let that sink in: In eight possessions, the Bears only went the full 10 yards once.

Although there are a lot of positives to take from Friday’s beatdown, the Panthers still have work to do.

They will enjoy some time off this week to rest up thanks to a bye week before hosting the regional quarterfinal Friday, Nov. 9. They will face either Treasure Coast (7-3, 0-2) or Centennial (7-2, 2-1).

WINDERMERE BLOWS OUT CELEBRATION 54-14

For it to be only Windermere’s second win in program history, the Wolverines made it

OTHER WEEK 10 SCORES

n Oak Ridge 36, Olympia 2 n Foundation Academy 61, West Oaks Academy 33 n BYE — Windermere Prep (8-0, 1-0)

File photos

Top: Dr. Phillips once again will head to the postseason.

Above: Windermere got its second win of the season.

look rather easy in their 54-14 romping of Celebration Friday, Oct. 26.

The Wolverines (2-6, 2-4) came out of the gates with a blazing ferocity as they raced out to a quick 33-14 lead before the halftime buzzer sounded.

A big part of the offensive onslaught came from the quick, shifty feet of senior running back Isaiah Jackson, who went into full beast mode to gain 202 rushing yards and an incredible five touchdowns on 30 carries.

But Jackson didn’t do it alone. Fellow seniors Austin Hatcher (six carries for 53 yards) and Ryan King (six carries for 54 yards) had a touchdown apiece, while sophomore Amer Amer (three carries for 6 yards) picked up a touchdown, as well.

On defensive, the Wolver-

ines played big as a cohesive force, with 15 tackles for loss, four sacks and two picks.

Junior strong safety Dylan Palmer led the way for the Wolverines as he contributed seven total tackles and two interceptions.

With Olympia (2-7, 2-2) coming to town Friday, Nov. 2, the Wolverines look to put together a winning streak to cap off their second year.

FIRST ACADEMY STAYS PERFECT

Another Friday night, another big win for The First Academy Lions (8-0, 1-0), who stayed perfect on the season in a 49-20 throttling of Lake Highland Prep Friday, Oct. 26.

Led by senior running back Rolous Frazier III and his blistering 154 yards and four touchdowns on 21 carries, the

Royals outpaced the Highlanders from the first whistle — scoring 28 points in the first half.

Along with a touchdown from senior quarterback Matthew Edwards (4-for-6, for 66 yards; one passing touchdown), the Royals scored in all manners.

Junior Lake Ellis was on the receiving end of a perfectly tossed 36-yard touchdown pass from Edwards and scored another touchdown after a 69-yard kickoff return.

Sophomore Josh Thomson joined the scoring bonanza with a 32-yard touchdown off a recovered fumble.

The 49-point offensive output is even more impressive when you consider that in eight games played, the Royals have put up more than 40 points on seven different occasions.

The Royals will need that same explosive firepower this week as they travel to take on the undefeated Buffalo of The Village Charter (9-0, 6-0), who have outscored opponents 44 to 13 — Friday, Nov. 2.

PARTNER OF THE WEEK

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• Photo Galleries • Interviews • Team of the Week • Videos & More

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289452-1

WEEK 11 PREVIEW

OrangeObserver.com

22

OBSERVER

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OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 2018

W EAT HER

I LOVE WEST ORANGE

FORECAST Winter Garden resident Sharon Chiecuto submitted this phone, which she took at Newton Park. “It was a good day,” Chiecuto says.

The 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

THURSDAY, NOV. 1 High: 88 Low: 70 Chance of rain: 10%

FRIDAY, NOV. 2 High: 80 Low: 59 Chance of rain: 90%

SUNRISE / SUNSET

Sunrise Sunset

Thursday, Nov. 1

7:38a

6:42p

Friday, Nov. 2

7:39a

6:41p

Saturday, Nov. 3

7:39a

6:40p

Sunday, Nov. 4

6:40a

5:40p

Monday, Nov. 5

6:41a

5:39p

Tuesday, Nov. 6

6:42a

5:38p

Wednesday, Nov. 7

6:42a

5:38p

MOON PHASES

SATURDAY, NOV. 3 Nov. 22 Full

Nov. 15 First

High: 75 Low: 60 Chance of rain: 10%

Nov. 29 Last

Nov. 7 New

RAINFALL Tuesday, Oct. 23

0.00

SUNDAY, NOV. 4

Wednesday, Oct. 24

0.00

High: 82 Low: 67 Chance of rain: 40%

Thursday, Oct. 25

0.00

Friday, Oct. 26

0.00

Saturday, Oct. 27

0.00

Sunday, Oct. 28

0.00

Monday, Oct. 29

0.00

See other winning photos at OrangeObserver.com

YEAR TO DATE:

OCT. TO DATE:

2018

2018 1.50 in.

46 in.

2017

2017 41.59 in.

1.95 in.

Southern BRUNCH BUFFET* $14.99 per person $7.99 children 12 & under

7 Main Courses

EVERY SUNDAY 11AM - 3PM

d choice of pota

$10 bottomless Champagne, Mimosas & Bloody Marys

lad an Served with sa

to

Prime Rib Full Pound, Filet Mignon 9oz, Ribeye 14oz, Top Sirloin 14oz, Baby Back Ribs Full Rack, Porterhouse Pork Chop 12 oz

1 Where you are working now?

7 Mall attraction 13 ___ out (discontinued) 19 Coat for ewe 20 Russian or Polish, e.g.

21 How some are armed 22 Weed-smoker in the forest?

25 Commonly, in old poetry 26 Gun lobby org.

27 Ten in Latin 28 Having adolescent pimples

29 Shoplifted 31 Gets one’s groove on 35 Redhead maker 37 Stared-at hanging 39 “New” prefix 40 Prefix with graph 41 What a tap washer may prevent 45 Bullwinkle redoes an Eastwood film?

52 Transformer in fairy tales 53 “Tab” attachments?

54 N.L. part 55 “Hold on a ___!”

56 Chef’s phrase 57 Line drive in the gap

58 Common beverage 60 Adjective for an ocean 62 Wedge-shaped mark 64 Passed by 68 Dazed 70 Speed detector 73 Free elk’s kin’s motto?

75 Things on some spooked Alaskans?

80 Like warriors 81 A part of some suits 83 Stereotypical oilman’s hat 84 Roping rope 87 Unit of progress 89 Grand ___ of wine 91 A day in Spain

92 Word with thumbs or star 93 Ring thing 96 Flower or eye part 98 “... good witch ___ bad witch?”

100 Eleventh president 101 Alaskan creature’s “cellular glue”?

106 Amanda of Hollywood 107 Pesky little insect 108 Find a function for 109 Centennial triplets?

110 Plant oozing 112 Humiliate 115 Male deer 119 A real sweetheart

122 Potato, e.g.

124 Be nourished 126 Rocky deposit 127 Like a creature with no attachments?

133 Any college athlete 134 Thing on all fours 135 Highly jubilant 136 Zippy comeback 137 “You ___ bother” 138Chairs or vehicle types

50 Varsity starting groups 51 “___ & Mrs. Miller” 59 Some batteries 61 One paid to catch flies?

63 In ___ (bogged down) 65 Cherry parts 66 Larry Fine was one 67 Large flightless bird 69 Harsh 71 Provide confidence to 72 Tec or PI, e.g.

74 Sounds made with raised DOWN eyebrows 1 Naturals, in hairstyles 76 Rx alternative 2 Split in a chin 77 It was used before 3 Verso’s opposite Windows 4 Atop, in the year 1550 78 French WWI soldier 5 View around you 79 Moccasin to avoid 6 Scorch a bit of meat 82 Long account on film 7 Longtime CBS drama no 84 Light provider more 85 Ingredient in bubble 8 Middle of a soliloquy? baths 9 A Bobbsey 86 ___ gin fizz 10 Escape detection 88 Just give a hint of color 11 Good things to run 90 Emulates wanderers 12 Like many appliances 94 Short ticker tapes?

13 Golf tee 95 Thing viewed in an office 14 Esther’s villain 97 Bump, as a toe 15 Dip type 16 Attachment to ten or pen 99 Potent suffix?

100 Sound that turns heads 17 “What ___ can I do?”

102 Concluding passage 18 Became a brunette with a quicker tempo overnight 103 Mork’s signoffs 21 Bone in the arm 104 “This ___ recording” 23 Young little fella 105 Like today’s fashions 24 Post-op recovery 111 Animated rabbit hunter 30 Canned fat 112 U.S. patriot Silas 32 Liqueur flavoring 113 Bert’s good friend 33 Japanese IT giant 114 Sundown, in old poetry 34 “The Facts of Life” cast 116 Major heart valve117 member Pasture shade 36 Thurmond of the NBA 118 Farmer’s supply 38 “The ___ Jakes” 119 “It’s ___ cry from ...”

40 Marine of classic TV 120 Alaskan city 42 Scary jungle sound 121 Initials for the best 43 Thing surrounded by athlete? water 123 Hit with a fastball 44 Boggy material 45 Lucy’s classic TV friend 125 Valuable cards 128 “Scram!” kin 46 Curtain material 47 Patronize, as a restaurant 129 ADA member’s degree 130 Summer cooler 48 Concession stand of131 Keyboard key fering 132 In, soon-to-be-out thing 49 Use hip boots

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.

“GUPJOROH KBCH ZDIY JOWWN KBC DN P WDZDJ DN P WDO; WDZDJPJDBIN PHO WDON GO JOWW BCHNOWRON.”

– ZPHX HCLLPWB

“AGD NWXKEB OJGUNWIDXDVVDW YNOH... UMAG N YKCAG RCEE KR JNXBL LKC UMEE OKCXB PCOA EMHD GMY.”

– JKXNX K’SWMDX

Puzzle Two Clue: Y equals M

©2018 Universal Uclick

ACROSS

MOOSE CHANGE by Timothy B. Parker

Puzzle One Clue: U equals H

CROSSWORD

289216-1

*Friday & Saturday Nights *At the Lakeside Village (Behind McDonalds) 7782 Winter Garden Vineland Road, Windermere, FL

©2018 NEA, Inc.

SUDOKU

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

©2018 Andrews McMeel Syndicate

11-1-18

OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

AUTO SERVICE

ROOFING 288626

AUTO SERVICE

23

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 2018

|

Battery Testing and Replacement

Scheduled Maintenance

Transmission and Engine Repair

Computerized Diagnostics

Tune-Ups and General Repair

Tires and Alignments

In House Towing Available

This week’s Celebrity Cipher answers

Ray Cornell Jr. Doug Gallinger Working Owners

www.r-dauto.com

STRESS

FREE

See store for details

BMW 3 Series Mercedes C-Class

179.95 BMW 5 Series $199.95 $

179.95 $199.95 $

Mercedes E-Class

with a mouth full of candy you will sound just like him.”

–Conan O’Brien

This week’s Sudoku answers

YOUR CARD HERE! IN PRINT AND ONLINE!

Full Synthetic Oil Service ONLY

89.95

$

Puzzle One Solution:

VIRUS & SPYWARE “Whatever your mind tells you ?QV\MZ /IZLMV¼[ 8ZMUQMZ :WWÅVO +WUXIVa ;QVKM ! is a REMOVAL limit is a lie; limitations are lies we tell ;MZ^QVO )TT WN ?M[\ 7ZIVOM +W]V\a DATA & PASSWORD ourselves.”

– Mark Ruffalo .]TTa 4QKMV[ML IVL 1V[]ZML :WWN :MXIQZ[ IVL :MXTIKMUMV\ RECOVERY ̆ ̆ ! ?M[\7ZIVOM:WWÅVO KWU Puzzle Two Solution: WIRELESS & WIRED NETWORKING “The Arnold Schwarzenegger mask... .:-- -;<15)<-;

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OrangeObserver.com

TO ADVERTISE CALL 407-656-2121

or email: AdvertiseNow@OrangeObserver.com ©2018 NEA, Inc.

This week’s Celebrity Cipher answers Puzzle One Solution: “Whatever your mind tells you is a limit is a lie; limitations are lies we tell ourselves.”

– Mark Ruffalo

This week’s Crossword answers

Puzzle Two Solution: “The Arnold Schwarzenegger mask... with a mouth full of candy you will sound just like him.”

–Conan O’Brien

AND MORE…

7790 Winter Garden Vineland Road #500 Windermere, FL 34786 Between 7-Eleven and McDonald’s

4750 The Grove Drive #140 Windermere, FL 34786 Next to the Signature LA Fitness

This week’s Sudoku answers

288647

(407) 554-2652 (407) 217-6929

Thursday, November 1, 2018 2018

©2018 NEA, Inc.

HOME SERVICES

This week’s Crossword answers

ORLANDO PREMIUM SHUTTERS GLYNWOOD COMMUNITY Yard Sale - Saturday, Nov 10th, 7:30AM - 2PM. Glynwood Community, Merchandise Wanted off New Stone Crest Blvd, Winter Garden. 11/8rt GLYNWOOD COMMUNITY Yard Sale - Saturday, Nov 10th, 7:30AM - 2PM. Glynwood Community, off New Stone Crest Blvd, Winter Garden. 11/8rt

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LANDSCAPING & LAWN

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ALOMA LLC is seeking an Assistant Operations Manager (Winter Garden, FL). Will provide outlines & budgets for renovation projects; coordinate and monitor requirements incld. customer/client needs; assessments to meet quality standards & project labor force. Knowledge of business & management principles for renovations incld. strategic planning, resource allocation, contractors & suppliers related to the market. 35 hrs/week. H.S. Degree or equiv. w/ 36 Months Exp. Fully literate in English. Email Resume & cover letter to Fabiana Romaqueli at falomallc@gmail.com 11/1al TLC BY Marie - full service home caretaker. 30+ years of experience, trustworthy, and reliable. If you hire Marie, your loved one will be in good hands.

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VISIT ORLANDO Now Hiring Convention Assistants -Do you enjoy meeting new people? Do you want to be a part of the team that welcomes 72M+ visitors to Orlando yearly? Visit Orlando is seeking team members who are enthusiastic about hospitality to assist with meeting & convention registration, greeting, and directing attendees. If you want to be a part of the excitement, the convention assistant position could be for you! Please call 407541-4291. This Position requires: Outstanding customer service skills, computer proficiency, and availability to work a part-time, flexible schedule 11/22vo

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OBSERVER

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OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 2018

LUXURY THE WAY YOU WANT IT

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288598-1

24

OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

25

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 2018

|

A

home in the Golden

DR. PHILLIPS

Oak community

area residential real-

The home at 10939 Woodchase Circle, Orlando, sold Oct. 22, for $410,000. Built in 1996, it has three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 2,038 square feet.

The price per square foot is $201.18.

estate transactions from

BAY HILL

in Southwest Orange topped all West Orange-

Oct. 19 to 26.

The home at 10242 Summer Meadow Way, Orlando, sold Oct. 24, for $6,989,000. Built in

AVALON AT TURTLE CREEK

The home at 8936 Crichton Wood Court, Orlando, sold Oct. 19, for $336,105 (auction/ REO). Built in 1972, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 3,150 square feet. The price per square foot is $106.70.

BAY HILL COVE

baths, a pool and 9,254

The home at 8641 Great Cove Drive, Orlando, sold Oct. 19, for $525,900. Built in 1995, it has five bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,795 square feet.

The price per square foot is $188.16.

square feet of living area.

BAY POINT

2016, it has six bedrooms, seven baths, three half-

The price per square foot is $755.24.

These are the highestselling homes in each

The home at 9179 Bay Point Drive, Orlando, sold Oct. 24, for $2 million. Built in 1993, it has five bedrooms, three baths, three half-baths, a pool and 5,341 square feet. The price per square foot is $374.46.

BAY RIDGE

community in West

The home at 8407 Foxworth Circle, No. 15, Orlando, sold Oct. 23, for $355,000. Built in 1995, it has three bedrooms,

Orange.

redfin.com

This Golden Oak estate, at 10242 Summer Meadow Way, Orlando, sold Oct. 24, for $6,989,000. Bonavento

by Stonebridge Homes Inc. is an Italian-inspired estate home in the Walt Disney World Resort Golden Oak.

two-and-one-half baths and 2,041 square feet. The price per square foot is $173.93.

CITRUS CHASE

The townhouse at 8248 Limetree Court, Orlando, sold Oct. 22, for $230,000. Built in 1981, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,408 square feet. The price per square foot is $163.35.

The townhouse at 8408 Tangelo Tree Drive, Orlando, sold Oct. 24, for $210,000. Built in 1984, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,050 square feet. The price per square foot is $200.

EMERALD FOREST

The home at 10238 Emerald Woods Ave., Orlando, sold Oct. 19, for $425,000. Built in 1999,

Offices in Celebration and Windermere

Total Sales: 73 High Sale Price: $6,989,000 Low Sale Price: $91,000 REO/bank owned: Two Auction/REO: One

GRANADA VILLAS

it has five bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 3,023 square feet. The price per square foot is $140.59.

The home at 8012 S. Madeira Court, Orlando, sold Oct. 19, for $275,000. Built in 1985, it has two bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 1,185 square feet. The price per square foot is $232.07.

ESTATES AT PARKSIDE

LAKE MARSHA HIGHLANDS

The home at 8127 Ludington Circle, Orlando, sold Oct. 25, for $577,000. Built in 2017, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 3,017 square feet. The price per square foot is $191.25.

The home at 7225 Lake Floy Circle, Orlando, sold Oct. 22, for $185,000. Built in 1973, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,830 square feet.

The price per square foot is $101.09.

Steve Barger Moises Alvarez NMLS#735842 NMLS#267908

7798 Winter Garden Vineland Road #116 Windermere, FL 34786

407-346-3093

RE

RE

DU

DU

CE

D

CE D

Multi-Lingual Offices

The home at 8424 Willow Tree Court, Orlando, sold Oct. 24, for $389,000. Built in 1999, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,415 square feet. The price per square foot is $161.08.

SNAPSHOT

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Immaculate town home in Lakeview Pointe 3 Bed/2.5 Bath/ 1,986 Sq Ft Offered at $329,000 MLS # S5007357

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Single Family Home in Davenport 6 Bed/4 Bath/3,078 Sq Ft Offered at $379,900 MLS # O5726631

Single-Story Home in Summerlake 3 Bed/2 Bath/2,526 Sq Ft Offered at $409,999 MLS # S5004308

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288177-1

REAL ESTATE

Golden Oak estate sells for $6,989,000

26

OBSERVER

|

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 2018

REAL ESTATE

The home at 6569 Old Carriage Road, Winter Garden, sold Oct. 24, for $315,000 (REO/bank owned). Built in 2015, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,224 square feet. The price per square foot is $141.64.

The townhouse at 7002 Broomshedge Trail, Winter Garden, sold Oct. 19, for $234,000. Built in 2012, it has three bedrooms, twoand-one-half baths and 1,472 square feet. The price per square foot is $158.97.

LAKE REAMS TOWNHOMES

trulia.com

This Keene’s Pointe home, at 11761 Vinci Drive, Windermere, sold Oct. 19, for $1,060,000. This home features a large outdoor area with plenty of covered space with built-in gas grill, sink and refrigerator.

ORANGE TREE COUNTRY CLUB

The home at 5951 Crystal View Drive, Orlando, sold Oct. 23, for $300,000. Built in 1989, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,070 square feet.

The price per square foot is $144.93.

SAND LAKE PRIVATE RESIDENCES

The condo at 8939 Latrec Ave., No. 1109, Orlando, sold Oct. 22, for $110,000. Built in 1994, it has one bedroom, one bath and 558 square feet. The price per square foot is $197.13.

SANDY SPRINGS

The home at 7925 Snowberry Circle, Orlando, sold Oct. 19, for $295,000. Built in 1987, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,068 square feet. The price per square foot is $142.65.

TANGELO PARK

The home at 7620 Ravenna Ave., Orlando, sold Oct. 24, for $134,990. Built in 1959, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 936 square feet. The price per square foot is $144.22.

HORIZON WEST ENCLAVE

The home at 17550 Black Rail St., Windermere, sold Oct. 23, for $730,000. Built in 2015, it has five bedrooms, four baths, a pool and 4,908 square feet.

The price per square foot is $148.74.

HICKORY HAMMOCK

The home at 16142 Johns Lake Overlook Drive, Winter Garden, sold Oct. 19, for $985,000. Built in 2014, it has four bedrooms, four baths and 4,766 square feet. The price per square foot is $206.67.

The townhouse at 15609 Orange Harvest Loop, Winter Garden, sold Oct. 22, for $281,000. Built in 2016, it has two bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 1,891 square feet. The price per square foot is $148.60.

HIGHLANDS AT SUMMERLAKE GROVES

The home at 15470 Murcott Blossom Blvd., Winter Garden, sold Oct. 22, for $335,000.

Built in 2016, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths, a pool and 1,875 square feet. The price per square foot is $178.67.

INDEPENDENCE/ SIGNATURE LAKES

The home at 6231 Schoolhouse Pond Road, Winter Garden, sold Oct. 19, for $460,000. Built in 2011, it has five bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 3,559 square feet. The price per square foot is $129.25.

The home at 15151 Evergreen Oak Loop, Winter Garden, sold Oct. 19, for $325,000. Built in 2015, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 2,936 square feet. The price per square foot is $110.69.

So local, it feels like your garage!

MILLION-PLUS TRANSACTIONS n GOLDEN OAK. The home at 10242 Summer Meadow Way, Orlando, sold Oct. 24, for $6,989,000. Built in 2016, it has six bedrooms, seven baths, three half-baths, a pool and 9,254 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $755.24. n BAY POINT. The home at 9179 Bay Point Drive, Orlando, sold Oct. 24, for $2 million. Built in 1993, it has five bedrooms, three baths, three half-baths, a pool and 5,341 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $374.46. n ISLES OF LAKE HANCOCK. The home at 7851 Skiing Way, Winter Garden, sold Oct. 25, for $1.6 million. Built in 2003, it has six bedrooms, sixand-one-half baths, a pool and 6,636 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $241.11. n SUMMERLAKE. The home at 7757 Summerlake Pointe Blvd., Winter Garden, sold Oct. 22, for $1.08 million. Built in 2013, it has four bedrooms, three baths, two half-baths, a pool and 5,174 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $208.74. n KEENE’S POINTE. The home at 11761 Vinci Drive, Windermere, sold Oct. 19, for $1,060,000. Built in 2012, it has five bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths and 3,680 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $288.04.

The townhouse at 12355 Cruxbury Drive, Windermere, sold Oct. 24, for $232,000. Built in 2006, it has two bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,311 square feet. The price per square foot is $176.96.

LAKE SAWYER SOUTH

The home at 7646 Brofield Ave., Windermere, sold Oct. 22, for $305,000. Built in 2010, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,706 square feet.

The price per square foot is $178.78.

LAKES OF WINDERMERE

The home at 13011 Penshurst Lane, Windermere, sold Oct. 23, for $409,000. Built in 2007, it has five bedrooms, four baths and 3,637 square feet. The price per square foot is $112.46.

The home at 12526 Cragside Lane, Windermere, sold Oct. 19, for $394,850. Built in 2007, it has four bedrooms, threeand-one-half baths and 2,984 square feet. The price per square foot is $132.32.

RESERVE AT BELMERE

WATERLEIGH

The home at 10411 Atwater Bay Drive, Winter Garden, sold Oct. 22, for $589,900. Built in 2017, it has five bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 3,911 square feet. The price per square foot is $150.83.

The home at 16106 Azure Key Drive, Winter Garden, sold Oct. 23, for $370,181. Built in 2018, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,113 square feet. The price per square foot is $175.19.

WINDERMERE ISLE

The home at 8530 Vivaro Isle Way, Windermere, sold Oct. 25, for $643,940. Built in 2018, it has five bedrooms, fourand-one-half baths and 4,061 square feet. The price per square foot is $158.57.

WINDERMERE SOUND

The home at 13254 Penshurst Lane, Windermere, sold Oct. 19, for $420,000. Built in 2015, it has five bedrooms, threeand-one-half baths and 3,720 square feet. The price per square foot is $112.90.

WINDERMERE TERRACE

The home at 13318 Longacre Drive, Windermere, sold Oct. 23, for $313,000. Built in 2013, it has three bedrooms, twoand-one-half baths and 2,301 square feet. The price per square foot is $136.03.

WINDERMERE TRAILS

The home at 8776 Powder Ridge Trail, Windermere, sold Oct. 25, for $510,000. Built in 2016, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths, a pool and 3,711 square feet. The price per square foot is $137.43.

The home at 11306 Shandon Park Way, Windermere, sold Oct. 24, for $171.66. Built in 2004, it has four bedrooms, four baths, a pool and 3,903 square feet. The price per square foot is $171.66.

The home at 8553 Crescendo Ave., Windermere, sold Oct. 22, for $329,900. Built in 2016, it has three bedrooms, twoand-one-half baths and 1,841 square feet. The price per square foot is $179.20.

SUMMERLAKE

SOUTHWEST ORANGE

The home at 7757 Summerlake Pointe Blvd., Winter Garden, sold Oct. 22, for $1.08 million.

Built in 2013, it has four bedrooms, three baths, two halfbaths, a pool and 5,174 square feet. The price per square foot is $208.74.

The home at 8143 Snowy Plover Ave., Winter Garden, sold Oct. 16, for $307,380. Built in 2018, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,758 square feet. The price per square foot is $174.85.

MABEL BRIDGE

The home at 11737 Verrazano Drive, Orlando, sold Oct. 20, for $450,000. Built in 2012, it has five bedrooms, threeand-one-half baths, a pool and 3,365 square feet. The price per square foot is $133.73.

WEST ORANGE GLENMUIR

The home at 6606 Crestmont Glen Lane, Windermere, sold Oct. 19, for $535,000. Built in 2002, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths, a pool and 3,080 square feet. The price per square foot is $173.70.

WINDERMERE

KEENE’S POINTE

The home at 11761 Vinci Drive, Windermere, sold Oct. 19, for $1,060,000. Built in 2012, it has five bedrooms, four-andone-half baths and 3,680 square feet. The price per square foot is $288.04.

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IN OCOEE

The home at 419 E. Seventh Ave., Windermere, sold Oct. 22, for $552,000. Built in 1964, it has five bedrooms, four baths, a pool and 2,965 square feet. The price per square foot is $186.17.

The home at 2012 Watermere Lane, Windermere, sold Oct. 22, for $673,000. Built in 2004, it has five bedrooms, fourand-one-half baths, a pool and 4,000 square feet. The price per square foot is $168.25.

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