12.06.18 The Observer

YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.

Observer

Hospital goes high-tech with mannequin. INSIDE.

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

VOLUME 4, NO. 11

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2018

Bruhn announces resignation Windermere Mayor Gary Bruhn will resign no later than March 2019. SEE PAGE 4.

Laughing all the way!

Above: Samuel Grande, center, and his sister, Sarah, were all smiles as they met Santa and Mrs. Claus at Windermere’s Holiday Social.

Left: Jack Bell worked hard to form a massive snowball at The Grove’s Winter Wonderland.

Windermere residents welcomed the Christmas season with the town’s annual Holiday Social and The Grove Orlando’s Winter Wonderland last week. SEE PAGE 11.

Orange County Sheriff’s Office Sector 3 Captain Tony Marlow said he plans to add more deputies.

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GABBY BAQUERO NEWS EDITOR

After hearing news of multiple armed home invasions in their area, residents living in the Horizon West community have decided they have had enough.

SEE RESIDENTS PAGE 4

FORECASTERS PREDICT SNOW IN METROWEST MetroWest will ring in the holiday season with its seventh annual WinterFest from 4 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 8, at MetroWest Golf Club, 2100 S. Hiawassee Road, Orlando.

This theme for this year’s event is “Happy Feet.”

Hosted by the MetroWest Master Association, the event will feature a snow slide, snow globe, facepainters, exhibitors, photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus, music and performances, and a screening of “Happy Feet.”

The event will raise money for Edgewood Children’s Ranch.

For more information, visit metrowestcommunity.com.

Windermere settles ADA lawsuit A legally blind man from Miami filed a lawsuit against the town because its website wasn’t ADA-accessible.

GABBY BAQUERO NEWS EDITOR

SPORTS

Recent home invasions spurs residents to demand solutions

YOUR TOWN

Gotha free-diver Krystal Jimenez seeks adventure from below the surface. PAGE 15.

The town of Windermere recently settled a lawsuit filed by a Miami resident who is legally blind and claimed to be harmed by the fact that the town’s website lacked ADAaccessibility features.

The lawsuit was filed in federal court Sept. 28 by the Law Offices of Scott R. Dinin P.A., on behalf of Juan Carlos Gil. According to the formal comSEE LAWSUIT PAGE 6

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THURSDAY, DEC. 6

YOUR CALENDAR

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2018

RETIRED EDUCATORS TO MEET 10 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 6, at College Park United Methodist Church, 644 W. Princeton St., Orlando. The Orange County Retired Educators Association will meet for a seasonal winter program. Anyone who has worked in education is invited to join. (407) 366-8982.

WEST ORANGE REPUBLICAN WOMEN FEDERATED MEETING 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 6, at the West Orange Country Club, 3300 West Orange Country Club Drive, Winter Garden. The meeting will include a Christmas market and live auction, recognition of the 2018 new members, induction of officers and donation to nonprofit organizations. Buffet lunch is $20.

RSVP at rebeccatmellen@gmail. com or (407) 230-5968.

FRIDAY, DEC. 7

CHRISTMAS WITH THE BASILICA CHOIR 5:30 p.m. gift shop open house, 7:30 p.m. concert Friday, Dec. 7, at the Basilica of the National Shrine of Mary, Queen of the Universe, 8300 Vineland Road, Orlando. An annual tradition of Advent and Christmas music with an audience sing-along of popular holiday tunes. Tickets are $25. (407) 239-6600, maryqueenoftheuniverse.org FAMILY ADVENT WORKSHOP 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 7, at Citrus Church — Horizon West, 14111 Shoreside Way, Winter Garden. In this Advent workshop, participants will have a fun and interactive night

sharing stories and activities to help prepare families for the Christmas season. Aprons will be available, but children should dress ready to paint. RSVP at citruschurch.churchcenter.com/ registrations/events/177866.

FRIDAYS ON THE PLAZA 7 to 9 p.m. Friday, Dec. 7, at the gazebo on Plant Street in downtown Winter Garden.

Enjoy holiday music by Nicole Equerme with Sam Trawick.

(407) 656-4111.

SATURDAY, DEC. 8

ANNUAL METROWEST WINTERFEST 4 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 8, at MetroWest Golf Club, 2100 S. Hiawassee Road, Orlando.

This year’s theme is WinterFest is “Happy Feet.” The event is hosted by the MetroWest Master Association. For more information, visit Metrowestcommunity. com.

HOLIDAY AMARYLLIS FESTIVAL 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 8, at Nehrling Gardens, 2267 Hempel Ave., Gotha. This event will feature rare amaryllis bulbs for sale as well as blooming amaryllis and other plants for the holidays.

There will be naturethemed vendors, food, music and crafts for the children.

Santa and Mrs. Claus will arrive in their red Corvette at 10 a.m. and stay for pictures on the porch until 2 p.m. Enjoy

leisurely strolls through the historic home and gardens. Info@ nehrlinggardens.org.

touille” and a craft. Recommended for lower and upper elementary. (407) 835-7323.

HOLIDAY CRAFT & VENDOR FAIR 5 to 9 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 8, at Dr. Phillips High School, 6500 Turkey Lake Road, Orlando. The event will include more than 30 vendors and artisans, food trucks, raffles, visits with Santa, games and gift wrapping. Admission is free. Guests who take an unwrapped toy for the U.S. Marines Toys for Tots will receive five raffle tickets. DPHStheatre. org.

SUNDAY, DEC. 9

MEET THE ARTIST: JJ DENNIS 1:30 to 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 8, at the Southwest Library, 7255 Della Drive, Orlando. Meet JJ Dennis as she discusses “Florida Revealed.” Dennis also will demonstrate techniques used to make a small book. Light refreshments will be served. (407) 835-7323.

“RATATOUILLE” MOVIE AND CRAFT 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 8, at the Windermere Library, 530 Main St. Enjoy a feast for your eyes with a showing of “Rata-

CHRISTMAS JOY AT WINDERMERE UNION 10 a.m. Sunday, Dec. 9, at Windermere Union Church, United Church of Christ, 10710 Park Ridge-Gotha Road, Windermere.

The church choir performs a cantata, which takes a look at the true meaning of Christmas.

Church music director Kevin Harris conducts the musical performance.

GRAND CAR MENORAH PARADE 6 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 9, at Chabad of South Orlando, 7347 W. Sand Lake Road, Orlando. This parade, held on the eighth night of Chanukah, will begin at Chabad and end with a menorah lighting celebration at 5135 International Drive.

MONDAY, DEC. 10

CENTRAL FLORIDA RAILWAY MEETING 7 p.m. Monday, Dec. 10, at the Central Florida Railroad Museum, 101 S. Boyd St., Winter Garden. Phil Cross presents “Historic Railroad Depots of Orange and Lake Counties, Florida” at this Central Florida Railway Historical Society meeting. Free.

(407) 656-0559.

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 12

WINDERMERE HIGH FOOD TRUCKS AND MOVIE NIGHT 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 12, at Windermere High School, 5523, Winter Garden Vineland Road, Windermere. Windermere will host food trucks and a screening of “How the Grinch

Stole Christmas.” Proceeds from the event will benefit the WHS Dance Marathon, which will raise money for Children’s Miracle Network.

THURSDAY, DEC. 13

“THE INVITATION” 10 a.m. Sunday, Dec. 9, at Windermere Union Church, United Church of Christ, 10710 Park Ridge-Gotha Road, Windermere.

The church choir performs a cantata, which takes a look at the true meaning of Christmas.

Church music director Kevin Harris conducts the musical performance. (407) 876-2112.

WEST ORANGE WOMEN LUNCHEON 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 13, at Big Fin Restaurant, 8046 Via Dellagio Way, Orlando.

The cost of the luncheon is $25.

Reservations required by calling (407) 258-8155. westorangewomen.com

FRIDAY, DEC. 14

FAMILY CHRISTMAS MOVIE NIGHT 5:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 14, at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, 4851 S. Apopka-Vineland Road, Orlando. Grab your family, friends and neighbors, take your low-back chairs, pillows and inflatable couches and settle in for a night of yuletide and cheer at the church. This event will feature food, fun and an outdoor screening of Tim Allen’s “The Santa Clause.” Tickets are $10 for a family up to six. For information, call (407) 876-4991.

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2018

Lawsuit alleges Singh misused taxpayer money, harassed employees The Orange County Property Appraiser’s office has denied all allegations.

GABBY BAQUERO NEWS EDITOR

Danielle Hendrix

Barley & Hops employees Audrey Skipper and Pedro Rivera are happy to be part of the transformation.

Tavern

BARLEY & HOPS WINDERMERE TAVERN

transformation The former Big Easy Windermere location was rebranded as Barley & Hops Windermere Tavern.

Barley & Hops offers live music from 7 to 10 p.m.

Saturdays. Owner Toby Krause is always looking for musicians who perform ’70s, ’80s and ’90s music, who are fun and upbeat and can interact with an audience.

To stay updated on artists set to perform and other live events, follow Barley & Hops on Facebook or visit the website at barleyandhopsgrill.com.

THREE TO TRY n Breakfast burger — Served on a toasted brioche roll with cheddar, Canadian bacon, sausage patty and a fried egg n Shaved prime rib sandwich — Thinly sliced prime rib, grilled and topped with onions and peppers, with Swiss cheese. Served on a hoagie n Wisconsin cheese curds — Hand-battered cheese, lightly fried to order with ranch

DANIELLE HENDRIX BLACK TIE EDITOR

Whether you want to grab a burger with friends on NFL Sundays or are craving dishes such as flatbreads and steaks, the Horizon West area now has a place for you.

Barley & Hops Windermere Tavern opened at the end of November in Lakeside Village. Previously The Big Easy’s second location, tavern owner Toby Krause decided he wanted to do something different after taking it over.

“Barley is our French bulldog, and she’s kind of the face of our place,” said Krause, a former business partner of The Big Easy.

“Our logo has Barley in it, and the Windermere Tavern (part) — to be honest, my wife and I are from the Midwest, and (taverns are) what we had. We want this place to be where the locals come. We wanted to have a variety of foods and be a little more unique than other people, (offering) all the way from steaks to flatbreads and different appetizers. We want to make it all affordable for everybody and have the local people come around here and enjoy a mom-and-pop feel.”

The restaurant was closed for only two days during its rebranding transition, which included painting and implementing a new menu. The 5,000-square-foot tavern features a covered patio and 14 high-definition TVs for sports.

“Quality food and our guest

service is very important to me,” Krause said. “I’m so proud of these guys for what they’ve done. … Everyone pitched in and helped, and they did just an incredible job in such a short period of time.”

Much of the items on the menu are created from locally sourced ingredients, including grass-fed beef for hamburgers that comes from Ocala. There are 16 beers offered on tap, including many local and craft beers.

From wings, sandwiches and salads to soups, burgers and flatbreads, Krause said there is something for everyone — even fresh Wisconsin cheese curds, a nod to his roots.

The most important thing to him and his wife, though, is creating relationships with their guests and treating everyone like family.

When the rebranded restaurant officially opened Saturday, Nov. 24, Krause said he and his staff had a record day and guests loved the new menu.

“It’s been awesome,” Krause said. “I’m so proud of (my staff) for doing what they did Saturday and Sunday, getting it out there.

(We hope) to continue to be able to build the brand here and provide a great place for the local people to hang out and continue to be able to give back to the community. I think we’re going down the right path.”

TAXPAYER-FUNDED TRIPS

In one example from June 2015, the suit alleges Singh intentionally delayed providing the Orange County comptroller documents requested as part of an audit that was initiated because Singh was accused of spending taxpayer money on personal travel expenses.

According to the lawsuit, Singh instructed staff to remove or alter documents before presenting it to the county’s audit team and destroy the originals. However, Hassan kept the originals in a box in her office.

The lawsuit alleges Singh used taxpayer money to partially fund nine personal trips disguised as

SEXUAL HARASSMENT

The lawsuit also accuses Singh of making inappropriate comments of a sexual nature, engaging in demeaning conduct toward female employees and using racial slurs.

According to the lawsuit, Singh referred to women using several derogatory expletives and an African-American reporter a racial slur. He also referred to McGee as the “hired help,” instructed her to act flirtatious with male vendors, used aggressive profanity toward her and instructed her to cover for him and lie to his wife when he brought strippers to the OCPA’s office after hours, the suit claims.

Hassan was also subject to Singh’s harassment, the lawsuit states. Hassan was assigned demeaning duties unrelated to her job as finance director, such as filling up Singh’s car with gas, making personal medical appointments, delivering rental cars to him, making hotel reservations for non-work travel and expressing his approval when Hassan performed these tasks by calling her a “good girl.”

According to the lawsuit, both Hassan and McGee made formal complaints about the sexual harassment in a letter to Singh.

INTERNAL INVESTIGATION

That complaint, made in June 2017, was investigated by Frank Kruppenbacher and former Judge Belvin Perry. Perry also represented Singh in his lawsuit against two political action committees for painting Singh in a negative light during the 2016 election in what Singh termed a “smear campaign.”

The investigative report, written by Perry in April 2018, claims no evidence was found to support McGee’s and Hassan’s allegations that Singh falsified documents.

“The majority of the allegations contained in this lawsuit have been previously investigated by former Chief Judge Belvin Perry and were found to be without merit,” Singh’s office said in a prepared statement.

“We look forward to presenting the facts in court in a fair and impartial manner and to vigorously defend the integrity of this office. These allegations are completely baseless and clearly made with the sole intention of damaging Mr. Singh personally. Mr. Singh vehemently denies these malicious attacks on his character.”

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LIVE MUSIC

7782 Winter Garden Vineland Road, No. 140, Windermere PHONE: (407) 347-3688 WEBSITE: barleyandhopsgrill.com EMAIL: barley@barley-hops.com FACEBOOK: facebook.com/ barleyandhopswindermere INSTAGRAM: @barleyandhops.windermere

Orange County Property Appraiser Rick Singh is the subject of a lawsuit by two former OCPA employees who’ve made multiple allegations against the public official.

The 40-page lawsuit, filed in federal court Nov. 6, was brought forward by Singh’s former director of finance, Aisha Hassan, and former communications director, Laverne McGee. McGee and Hassan, who were terminated Aug. 24, included several detailed allegations against Singh, who was elected as property appraiser in 2012 and again in 2016.

The lawsuit accuses Singh of: n Using taxpayer funds for personal travel expenses and promotional items for his campaign; n Falsifying, altering and shredding audit documents; n Deliberately delaying or denying public record requests from media and attorneys; n Sexually harassing OCPA employees through “frequent and ongoing comments of a sexual nature” and using sexual innuendos; n Using OCPA staff for campaign business; n Manipulating property appraisals to benefit friends, politicians, and business acquaintances and to harm anyone he disliked; n Writing checks to employees using unused campaign donations; and n Creating a sham not-forprofit charity to host events and obtain sponsors.

business trips. Singh allegedly provided McGee a list of places he would like to visit and told McGee to “come up with justifications for these things to show why I’m going.”

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2018

Mayor Gary Bruhn announces resignation

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.”

Bruhn, the town of Windermere’s mayor for 15 years, is selling his home and plans to resign no later than March 2019.

GABBY BAQUERO NEWS EDITOR

Longtime Windermere Mayor Gary Bruhn is resigning from his post.

Bruhn made his announcement via a Dec. 3 letter to Windermere Town Council members and Town Manager Robert Smith.

In the letter, Bruhn wrote he has purchased a home outside the town limits and, because the town charter requires its mayor to be a town resident, he is stepping down.

“After 30 years of living (in Windermere), I have decided to sell my home,” Bruhn wrote. “Our charter states that residency is a requirement to hold office, and I intend to live at my current address until it sells. However, I have purchased a house just outside our border, and as such, I will not be able to maintain my position as mayor.

“As you know, it is hard to predict when a house will sell, but regardless of when my house sells, I will resign no later than our March meeting in order to prevent a special election,” he wrote.

“To that end, I am asking that the mayor’s position be included in our March 2019 election ballot.”

His new home, which he said has all the features for which he and his wife were searching, is in the Reserve at Belmere.

“I’m selling (my current home), because I found one that’s more accommodating for my family visits and my grandchildren,” Bruhn said. “They’re actually coming down in a few months, and my wife and I always said we wanted a bigger home with a pool that some of the grandchildren could enjoy more. So we just found the kind of home that we were looking for, and we decided that we had to move on it.”

Bruhn, who was elected mayor in 2004, only told Windermere Town Manager Robert Smith and Town Clerk Dorothy Burkhalter before he broke the news to the whole Town Council during a town workshop held Dec.3.

“We thought the time was right,” he said. “I’m not getting any younger, so we figured it was time to find what will hopefully be the last home of our lives. And I’m excited to move into my new home, but my heart will always be here. I mean, I’ve lived here

almost half my life. And I’ve been mayor for half of that, but it was just that time.”

In addition to Windermere mayor, Bruhn has served in many different capacities, including past president of the Florida League of Mayors; chairman of the Orange County Council of Mayors; member and past chairman of the Municipal Advisory Committee for MetroPlan; member of the West Orange Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors; member and past chairman of the Florida League of Cities’ Municipal Administration Legislative Committee; past member of the MetroPlan Board of Directors; member of the West Orange-South Lake Transportation and Economic Development Task Force; and member of the U.S. Army Community Advisory Board.

He was the recipient of the Florida League of Cities’ Inaugural Home Rule Hero Award in 2009, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2018. He was the recipient of the Tri-County League of Cities Elected Municipal Official of the year Award and the West Orange Chamber of Commerce’s Sam Hovsepian Award in 2014.

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,

“It has been an honor and a privilege to serve the residents of Windermere alongside the 24 (Town) Council members I have served with these past 15 years.”

— Mayor Gary Bruhn

“It has been an honor and a privilege to serve the residents of Windermere alongside the 24 (Town) Council members I have served with these past 15 years,” Bruhn wrote in his letter.

Bruhn said he does not expect his home to sell too quickly, but if it does, the town will have 45 days to fill the position of town mayor.

Residents call for more police presence CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

Recently, some neighborhoods, including The Vineyards, The Retreat at Windermere, The Addison at Windermere and Providence, have been hit with a sudden spike in crime — including three armed home invasions.

Using the Nextdoor app, which allows neighbors to communicate on a private social network, some area residents urged the community to take action to demand a long-term solution to the crime plaguing the area.

“I just think that a community has strength in numbers, and it’s about time we try to do something as a group,” said resident Daniel Nadeau, who urged his neighbors to join him in finding a solution.

“I don’t know what’s been tried or done before, but I just looked at this whole scenario and thought, ‘Something has to give.’ I just think we need to start thinking about solutions and maybe take a different approach.”

‘WE ARE VULNERABLE’

Some residents suspect criminals specifically target the Horizon West and unincorporated Orange County neighborhoods because of the deputy shortage that’s been widely reported, as well as a criminal’s experience in repeatedly escaping capture after having committed a crime in the area.

“It’s been a point made by some people — that we’re being targeted because the criminals know,” Nadeau said. “And some people don’t want to further advertise the fact that we are vulnerable, but my argument to that is, I believe they are already aware that we are vulnerable. I don’t think it’s a secret anymore; the cat’s out of the bag.”

Nadeau said he felt compelled to write a post on Nextdoor after learning of all the crimes that had occurred in his area within a sixmonth timespan and hearing of a resident who had to wait 40 minutes for a deputy to arrive.

“There was one in Providence, which was the second break-in in a six-month span,” he said. “Over in The Retreat about two months ago, there was an attempted robbery and a shooting. And there was a drive-by shooting in The Addison. And then directly across the pond at The Vineyards, there was a home invasion at 6 a.m. where a woman was held at gunpoint while her two children sat there and watched while they ransacked her home for over an hour. She called the police, and it was a 40-minute response time.”

‘TOO CLOSE TO HOME’

About 25 residents showed up at the Dec. 2 community gathering, residents heard from the Orange County Sheriff’s Office crime prevention unit for Sector 3, which includes Horizon West, as well as Sector 3 Captain Tony Marlow.

Marlow emphasized the recent home invasions that occurred Oct. 23, Nov. 2 and Nov. 25 were not random acts of violence and completely unrelated, despite what some may believe.

“The three home invasions that were reported by the media cre-

ated a lot of panic for some of the residents out there, because it gave the appearance that it was a random act of violence occurring by a group of individuals, but that just wasn’t the case,” Marlow said.

“And of those three cases, in two of them, the residents had been engaged in high-risk behavior and a byproduct of those activities contributed to a criminal element coming to their home. And the other one involved a family dispute.”

But related or not, the incidents just felt too close to home for some of the families in the area.

“I’ve lived in this home for about three years, and I’ve never seen anything like this,” Nadeau said.

“And this last one was just so close.

That woman who was held up for an hour in her home must have been terrified; I can only imagine what that was like. This just hit so close to home for us. I can never imagine going through what these victims have gone through.”

ZONE CHANGES

Marlow detailed some upcoming changes for the County’s Sector 3, which is divided into five zones — one of which includes Pine Hills.

Marlow said the Sheriff’s Office is working on an initiative to adjust the zones that compose Sector 3 and remove the Pine Hills area from the Sector, which will be absorbed into Sector 1.

“The challenge with Horizon West is its large size,” he said.

“Right now, our deputies have to travel a lot. But we’re looking to ... take Horizon West and split it into three zones, with two deputies per zone for a total of six. We believe shrinking the zones will improve our response times and also increase deputy visibility.”

Marlow said response times for priority-two calls, which make up about 74% of calls, average between eight and 12 minutes.

Response times vary depending on the location and other factors, including whether another timesensitive call comes in that is considered of higher priority, he said.

Zone changes for Sector 3 won’t take place until about mid-2019, because the Sheriff’s Office needs time to input all the new addresses into its computer system, which entails a lot of data entry, he said.

For now, Marlow has instructed deputies assigned to the Sector 3 area to increase patrol efforts.

“Because these weren’t random acts of violence and the crime numbers in that area are low, what I’ve asked my deputies to do is increase their patrol efforts in the area,” Marlow said. “In the Horizon West area, we have two deputies that are assigned specifically to Horizon West, as well as some other specialty units that are helping with traffic and speeding-related issues.”

“I’ve lived in this home for about three years, and I’ve never seen anything like this. And this last one was just so close. That woman who was held up for an hour in her home must have been terrified; I can only imagine what that was like. This just hit so close to home for us. I can never imagine going through what these victims have gone through.”

— Daniel Nadeau

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 Business Development Kim Kowske, kkowske@OrangeObserver.com 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, DECEMBER 6, 2018

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2018

Lawsuit settled

Above: Diana Dorsey traveled with her West Orange Times & Observer to Helen, Georgia.

Right: Jim and Kathy Riffle climbed Machu Picchu with their West Orange Times & Observer and toured the sacred valley in Peru.

A

s you pack your suitcases for all your worldly travels, be sure to put in a copy of the Observer. All entries will be entered into our ongoing It’s Read Everywhere contest.

Entering is easy! Once you find an interesting background, feature your weekly newspaper in a high-quality photo and email it to Community Editor Amy Quesinberry at AmyQ@ orangeobserver.com. You can also mail or drop off the photo: Observer Media Group, 661 Garden Commerce Parkway, Suite 180, Winter Garden, FL 34787.

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

— AMY QUESINBERRY

plaint, Gil was unable to use his screen-reader software to access the electronic documents published on the town of Windermere’s website.

As such, Gil maintained he was caused undue harm by the town and moved forward with a civil lawsuit. This latest lawsuit is one of at least 60 similar lawsuits Gil has filed against numerous municipalities and organizations, including the city of Winter Garden, Orange County government, Brevard County, Hillsborough County, the city of Edgewood, Orlando Health, Winn-Dixie, Burger King and Wendy’s. Many of those lawsuit also ended in settlements.

By not making their websites ADA-accessible, governments and organizations are failing to comply with a requirement mandated by the Americans With Disabilities Act to make electronic documents accessible to individuals living with disabilities, the lawsuit asserts.

“By failing to provide electronic documents in an accessible format, defendant has deprived blind and visually impaired individuals of the benefits of its online content, which benefit is afforded to sighted individuals,” the lawsuit reads. “As such, defendant has increased the sense of isolation and stigma that the ADA and Section 504 (of the Rehabilitation Act) were meant to redress for individuals with disabilities.”

The lawsuit against Windermere was ultimately dismissed Nov. 20 after Gil’s attorney and the town’s legal counsel reached a

settlement agreement. The town paid about $2,500 of taxpayer money to its insurance carrier for the deductible, said Windermere Town Manager Robert Smith. Gil was paid about $14,000 in compensation for his time, suffering and attorney fees.

During a council meeting, Smith referred to the whole situation as a “lawsuit of opportunity.”

“It stinks that this happened, but it does happen, and there are attorneys who try to exploit or … try to find these things,” Smith said. “A lot of cities in Florida will typically, at least once in a while, get a lot of public-record requests or lawsuits once new legislation is passed. And pretty much, what these attorneys are looking for are lawsuits of opportunity.

“I don’t believe that there was any real damage to the person (who) claimed (he) had been harmed, because we don’t remember getting a public-record request from this person,” he said.

“If so, we would have made any accommodation possible. But based on the advice of our insurance carrier’s legal counsel, they wanted us to settle this case. So we did. The only out-of-pocket cost to taxpayers was about $2,500 for our deductible, and our insurance took care of the rest.”

During the litigation process, the town was taking steps to ensure the town’s website was ADA-accessible.

“We decided to not only add ADA accessibility but also revamp the actual website to make it more user-friendly because we got a couple of complaints,” Smith said.

“But I guess that wasn’t sufficient for them, as far as timing.”

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IT’S READ EVERYWHERE!

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

Audiologist holding essay contest Deadline for the writing contest is Dec. 10, and the winner will receive new hearing aids in time for the holidays.

AMY QUESINBERRY COMMUNITY EDITOR

Dr. Kristen Weinbaum has lived with hearing loss since she was 5, and she knows what it’s like to not understand what the people around her are saying. She knows also that it can be more difficult during the holidays when social events are popular and many people are gathering for conversation.

The Winter Garden audiologist, who owns Precision Hearing in Clermont, is giving back to the

community for a second year by holding an essay-writing contest.

The winner will be fitted for and receive a new pair of digital hearing aids.

The Gift of Hearing contest is designed to give someone in need the chance to receive just that — the gift of hearing. The Oticon Opn hearing aids work in harmony with the brain to help people hear better with less effort and to recall more of what is being said.

“Unfortunately, hearing aids aren’t typically covered by health-insurance plans,” Wein-

baum said. “Everyone deserves better hearing — even those without the financial means.”

To submit an entry, write an essay describing why you or someone you know would benefit from winning a pair of hearing aids but have been unable to obtain them due to financial difficulties.

Weinbaum is celebrating her second anniversary in her current location and is holding the contest to celebrate her success.

“Hearing loss creates a disconnect between an individual and their loved ones which becomes particularly noticeable around the holidays when there are lots of gatherings,” she said. “I’m hoping

to give someone the opportunity to connect with their loved ones this holiday season.”

There is no word limit on the essay. Area audiologists will judge the contest and select a local winner based on hearing need and financial need.

Once the winner is chosen, he or she will be screened and fitted for hearing aids costing about $4,400. The recipient will receive them in time for the holidays.

Weinbaum is board certified in audiology and specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of hearing loss at her clinic.

“Making a difference in people’s lives is my passion,” she said. “Sometimes it’s small,

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2018

HOW TO ENTER The deadline to enter is Monday, Dec. 10. Entries can be submitted in one of three ways: n EMAIL: drweinbaum@ precisionhearingfl.com n FAX: (352) 708 5199 n MAIL: Precision Hearing, 4331 S. U.S. 27, Clermont, Florida 34711

sometimes it’s big. But I get to help people every day, and, occasionally, the results are literally instantaneous when you turn on a patient’s hearing aids for the first time. … I hope with this contest that I can make a huge difference in someone’s life.”

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2018

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ARTS + CULTURE

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2018

ORANGEOBSERVER.COM

Rowland Cooney is a self-taught sculptor with a passion for teaching.

A fan of video games, Rowland Cooney uses popular characters such as Mario in his sculpting classes for children.

Photos by Eric Gutierrez

Hands-on for the holidays Rowland Cooney will be teaching the basics of sculpture with The Three Kings: Adult Sculpture Workshop Dec. 7 and 8.

ERIC GUTIERREZ STAFF WRITER

G

rowing up, Rowland Cooney had a hard time finding toys of some of his favorite game and cartoon characters. Because of this, the fan of video games, superheroes and Japanese anime began sculpting his own out of clay.

“I’ve always been a big toy collector — I still am — and that’s why I started sculpting, because they weren’t making the toys I wanted,” Cooney said. “I wanted Mario toys.

I wanted Sonic the Hedgehog toys, but nobody had them.”

The self-taught sculptor began his craft as a child but didn’t start

taking it seriously until after discovering the tabletop game HeroClix — which uses small figurines of various superheroes and other characters — at age 16.

“Again, they weren’t making the heroes I wanted (for HeroClix),” Cooney said. “So I would take the (figurines) off the base and start trying to sculpt them. That’s when I really started sculpting for real, and I taught myself everything I know. I got better and better and better until people started ordering from me.”

Today, Cooney, 33, takes his knowledge of sculpture to the classroom. He will be teaching SEE HANDMADE PAGE 10

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OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2018

Handmade holiday

Holiday Amaryllis Festival

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9

The Three Kings: Adult Sculpture Workshop from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Friday, Dec. 7, and Saturday, Dec. 8, at The Art Room, 709 Main St., Windermere. The workshop costs $250 and includes lunch and supplies. Those who attend will learn basic sculpture techniques as they sculpt the Three Kings — Melchior, Gaspar and Balthazar.

“I’m going to walk them through the basics,” Cooney said. “All the (sculpture) techniques I chose for the Three Kings, I try to keep them really simple. ... So it’ll be easy cuts, easy sculptures and then we can just put it together.”

Attendees will learn techniques such as blocking out shapes, and a process Cooney calls “puzzlepiecing,” which is a technique he uses to sculpt complicated shapes.

“The blocking out helps you layer the clay on easier,” Cooney said. “(To make) a complicated shape ... you make the smaller, easier shapes and then you place it all together like a giant puzzle piece.”

The Three Kings workshop isn’t Cooney’s first teaching experience. Prior to moving to Windermere about a year ago, he spent about seven years teaching at Frederick Community College in Frederick, Maryland. It was there that Cooney discovered his passion for teaching. He taught classes in sculpture, stop-motion animation, origami and classical Japanese art and even taught a class called “architecture through Minecraft.” He said his favorite thing about teaching is seeing students’ reactions when they love what they’re learning.

“I love seeing people get passionate about this stuff,” Cooney said. “Teaching is the most important thing to me. … Even on the days where my work started at 8 (in the morning) and ended at like midnight, I woke up (the next day) ready to go again. It was just so fun.”

Cooney landed the teaching job

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THE THREE KINGS: ADULT SCULPTURE WORKSHOP WITH ROLAND COONEY WHEN: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Friday, Dec. 7, and Saturday, Dec. 8 WHERE: The Art Room; 709 Main St., Windermere COST: $250, includes lunch and supplies REGISTRATION: (407) 909-1869

at Frederick Community College in 2010 after the school’s animation teacher quit just weeks before the start of a semester. He was one of eight candidates interviewed, and — although he lacks a college degree — he was hired on the spot because of his experience in sculpture and stop-motion animation.

At the time, he did stop-motion animation as a simple hobby and didn’t expect it to lead to a job.

His stop-motion animation class became his most popular one, he said.

“I was so popular, they asked me to come back,” Cooney said.

“Every summer, I was blocked in and the most popular class was stop-motion. It was consistently full.”

Although Cooney is passionate about teaching — and aside from teaching sculpture classes at The Art Room — he hasn’t been able to land another teaching job with a school because he doesn’t have a degree. Being a self-taught sculptor gives Cooney a strong sense of pride, however, the lack of a degree has presented one of his biggest challenges.

“I look a lot worse on paper than I do in person,” Cooney said. “The biggest challenge for me has been that I am self-taught. It’s the thing I’m proudest of, but it’s also been the hardest thing, because that degree gets you through a lot of hoops that I have to really negotiate around.”

“I’m going to walk them through the basics. All the (sculpture) techniques I chose for the Three Kings, I try to keep them really simple. ... So it’ll be easy cuts, easy sculptures and then we can just put it together.”

— Rowland Cooney

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OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

|

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2018

Gina Alayne Allison, left, painted a holiday-themed design on Eden Immerfall’s face at Windermere’s Holiday Social.

Kyla and Kamden Nguyen were awestruck by Santa and Mrs. Claus at The Grove’s Winter Wonderland.

Volunteers Darianne Rua, left, and Laryssa Ferreira served hot chocolate to guests at Windermere’s Holiday Social.

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas!

N

Camila Navas showed off her hula-hooping skills at The Grove’s Winter Wonderland.

ow that the last of the Thanksgiving leftovers are gone, the Christmas season arrived in full force with two annual traditions — the town of Windermere’s Holiday Social and The Grove Orlando’s Winter Wonderland.

The holiday spirit was alive in downtown Windermere the evening of Friday, Nov. 30 for the annual Holiday Social. Dozens of residents gathered at Town Hall for an evening of games, food trucks, sweet treats and holiday family fun. Children got to enjoy a bounce house, face-painting and a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus.

The next day, families in the Southwest Orlando area rang in the season with a wintry celebration at The Grove Orlando’s Winter Wonderland. The event drew dozens of children and families for an afternoon of holiday festivities.

Children played in a “snow” pit, posed for photos in an inflatable snow globe, met with Santa and Mrs. Claus, got their faces painted, participated in fun games and much more.

Volunteers Valeria Cuencas, left, Daniel Fontaine and Alicia Blasini served sweet treats at Windermere’s Holiday Social.

— ERIC GUTIERREZ AND DANIELLE HENDRIX

Left: Rick De Jesus worked with the Birchmore Group as a balloon artist at The Grove’s Winter Wonderland.

ONLINE

Children and adults alike enjoyed taking a train ride at The Grove’s Winter Wonderland.

See more photos at OrangeObserver.com

11

OBSERVER

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OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2018

Chabad festival brightens Chanukah

W

ith live music, extremetrampoline athletes, food, a horse-drawn carriage and more, Chabad of South Orlando’s 19th annual Chanukah Festival was a spectacle to behold from Sand Lake Road. Held on the first night of Chanukah — Sunday, Dec. 2 — the festival drew a crowd of hundreds to celebrate the beginning of the Jewish holiday. Children created sugar-filled menorahs and festive sunglasses while toting balloons and dreidel necklaces, and all guests indulged in the various festivities offered.

Westgate Resorts founder and CEO David Siegel was invited to light the first candle on the menorah.

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2018

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WEST ORANGE OBITUARIES

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2018

MARIAN LANELLE BAILEY LASSETER DIED SUNDAY, NOV. 25, 2018.

Marian LaNelle Bailey Lasseter passed away on Sunday, Nov. 25, 2018, at the age of 90.

La Nelle was born on Dec. 30, 1927, in Fitzgerald, Georgia, to her parents, Miriam and Julius Bailey. She remained in Fitzgerald with her mother, father and younger brother, Edward, where she became an elementary school teacher and mother to her two daughters, Gwendolyn Bekemeyer (Fred) and Linda Yvonne Abernethy (Reggie).

Later, she moved away to build another life in Orlando, Florida, where she eventually met and married her second husband, Wilbur Lasseter

(known to most as Hugh), who she remained with until his death in December 2003.

It is through her marriage to Hugh that she gained three stepdaughters, Joy Irene Lasseter, Linda Hart and Laura Liggett (Bob).

La Nelle is survived by her brother; five children; six grandchildren; and 12 greatgrandchildren. She loved to cook, read and play bridge with her friends.

We will all remember her biscuits, pound cake, fruit cake, homemade cupcakes in the freezer any time you wanted one and the calming Southern environment she created. Her home was always warm and inviting to anyone who came for a visit.

The family had a visitation in Winter Garden for family and friends at Baldwin Fairchild Funeral Home. A graveside service was held at Evergreen Cemetery in Fitzgerald, Georgia. Arrangements entrusted to Baldwin Fairchild Funeral Home, Winter Garden, baldwinfairchildwintergarden. com.

LOUISE BRANOM DIED MONDAY, NOV. 26, 2018.

Louise Branom, 81, a resident of Winter Garden, Florida, passed away on Monday, Nov. 26, 2018.

She was born on Feb. 13, 1937, in Elba, Alabama, to Larkin and Venera DeLoach.

Louise was a loving wife, mother, daughter, sister, aunt, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend who was affectionately called Gigi by her great-grandchildren. Louise loved sewing, quilting, crocheting, baking and decorat-

DANIEL WEBSTER “DANNY/DW” HARRELL DIED SATURDAY, DEC. 1, 2018.

On Saturday, Dec. 1, 2018, Daniel Webster “Danny/DW” Harrell, 90, of Winter Garden, passed away and went to be with his Lord and Savior peacefully with his loving wife next to his side.

He was born and raised in Dothan, Alabama, but lived

ing cakes. She especially liked spending time with her children and grandchildren enjoying Lake Hickory Nut and loved to watch Disney’s fireworks from her front porch every night. most of his life in Florida. He loved the small town of Winter Garden, where he spent the last 50 years of his life.

He was an independent business owner and always enjoyed helping others. He proudly served his country in the United States Navy. He was a family man and loved being surrounded by family and close friends.

In 1967, he married the love of his life, Vera D. Harrell.

He was a loving father to five sons and three daughters. He was preceded in death by his sons, Michael Harrell, Timothy Harrell and Bruce Harrell; daughter, Carolyn Henson; parents, Jewel Mitchel and Dennis Harrell; and grandson, Marrick Daniel Harrell.

He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Vera Harrell; son, Danny

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Services to be held at the Collison Carey Hand Funeral Home on Friday, Dec. 7, 2018.

The family viewing is from 11 a.m. to noon, the public viewing is from noon to 1:30 p.m., and the service is at 1:30 p.m., with interment to follow at the Winter Garden Cemetery.

Jimmie Nell Smith, 80, died Nov. 20, 2018. Collison Carey Hand Funeral Home, Winter Garden.

Rozella Keith, 74, died Nov. 23, 2018. Collison Carey Hand Funeral Home, Winter Garden.

e

Louise was preceded in death by her infant son, Russell, and oldest son, Ron. She is survived by her loving husband of 67 years, Terril Branom; her children, Rick (Amy) and Steve (Julie); her grandchildren, Jesse Branom, Elisha (Mike) Gaynor, Kara, Blake, Adam, Amanda, Christopher and Monica Branom; her greatgrandchildren, Emily, Callie, Joseph and Gavin.

Louise was also blessed in her life with three brothers and four sisters.

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DECEMBER 6, 2018

HIGH

SPORTS

1

5

Rafael SilvaAzevedo picked up two goals for the Dr. Phillips boys soccer team in the 3-1 win over Evans Friday, Nov. 30. The win moved the Panthers to 5-0 on the season.

In the first four games this season — including a preseason matchup — Windermere High’s Chloe Washington has scored eight goals and has four assists. Page 16.

THE DEEP END Gotha resident Krystal Jimenez’s passion for water has led her to new depths as a free-diver.

2

TROY HERRING SPORTS EDITOR

3

Although the season started with a 56-47 loss for the Windermere Prep boys basketball team, Jayden Williams still had a good night Saturday, Dec. 1, as he led the Lakers in scoring with 22 points.

4

In Olympia’s big 7-2 win over West Orange in boys soccer Friday, Nov. 30, Andrew Lizyness hit the back of the net on three different occasions as he racked up the hat trick for the Titans.

5

Windermere Prep boys soccer’s Jose Lopez and Jaime Caro in their 8-0 win over Real Life Christian Friday, Nov. 30, as they both picked up hat tricks.

F

SEE FREE-DIVING PAGE 16

New Windermere Prep head coach Brian Hoff ushers in a new era of Lakers basketball.

TROY HERRING SPORTS EDITOR

As the clock struck 0.0, the familiar loud buzz of the scoreboard sounded.

Windermere Prep boys coach Brian Hoff looked up to see the score: Lakers 65, Ocoee 51.

Despite it being a preseason warm-up for his team, a smile broke through Hoff’s game face. This wasn’t just any win — it was his first as the Lakers’ head man.

“Even this preseason, my guys have been working their tails off to improve, and that’s what’s so encouraging about this group, is they are some of the hardest working — and most selfless — group that I’ve ever coached,” Hoff said.

“Those two traits can take you a long way. I’m excited about this group we have here.”

Hoff moved into the job at Windermere Prep in June following the departure of Ben Wilson.

In Olympia’s 58-53 win over Apopka in girls basketball Thursday, Nov. 29, Shadaria Smith went off for 26 points in the Titans’ second win of the season.

ifty miles off the coast of Florida, the crystal blue waters of the Bahamas offers up the perfect dive.

With her goggles and swimfins on, Krystal Jimenez takes to the water to begin her exploration of a shipwreck that sits just offshore of the island.

As she hits around the 15-foot mark, she grabs a hold of part of the wreckage, feeling the rust and age set upon it by years of sitting on the sandy floor.

Down here — well below the cresting waves — Jimenez finds her happy place.

“While you’re down there underwater, you’re not really thinking about anything — you just feel really free,” Jimenez said. “I’ve done scuba-diving, and it’s great — you get to experience the sea creatures and another world — but with the scuba gear and everything, you kind of feel out of place down there.

When you’re free-diving and you go down there, you feel free,” she said. “You’re floating.”

That mini-dive in the Bahamas was a pretty routine one for Jimenez, especially considering her benchmark is a 50-foot freedive that required her to hold her breath for four minutes. It’s an insane feat when you think about it, but it’s a sport with which Jimenez has been obsessed with since she can remember.

For those unfamiliar with the sport of free-diving, it’s pretty basic — you dive, without a breathing apparatus, down into deep

Hoff takes helm of Lakers basketball

“There’s certain jobs in this state that are jobs that you just can’t turn down, and I think this is one of them. I think this is one of the top basketball coaching jobs in this state. …”

— Brian Hoff

Courtesy photo

Krystal Jimenez enjoyed a dive down in the Bahamas.

Photo by Troy Herring

Jimenez has collected shells and sand from her dives.

At the time, Hoff was sitting at his desk at Providence School of Jacksonville, where he had been the associate head coach for six years. There, he helped the Stallions to two state titles (four appearances in the finals overall) under the guidance of the legendary Jim Martin.

Although assisting at Providence has its perks, once Hoff was offered the gig, the answer was an emphatic, “Yes.” “There’s certain jobs in this state that are jobs that you just can’t turn down, and I think this is one of them,” Hoff said.

“I think this is one of the top basketball coaching jobs in this state. We have all the resources here to be successful.”

Coming into the program, he knew that winning — and winning big — was absolutely attainable, especially considering the Lakers are only two years removed from winning the Class 3A state title.

This season’s players will be SEE PREPPED PAGE 16

16

SPORTS SPOTLIGHT

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Chloe Washington Windermere High’s girls soccer team gained an important player this season after junior Chloe Washington transferred from Dr. Phillips High. In the span of the first four games this season — including a preseason matchup — Washington has scored eight goals and has four assists. She has had interest from schools such as Stetson and UAB.

How long have you been playing soccer, and what sparked your interest in it?

I’ve been playing since about fourth grade. We had lessons at elementary school, so that’s when I really got into it. The coach recommended me, and that’s how I started playing. I really want to go pro, possibly, and get a good college career.

The season’s just begun, but so far, what is the team dynamic like?

We’re very hard-working, very team-oriented. Everyone cares for each other.

Which of your teammates is the funniest?

Probably Caitlyn Bruno — she says a bunch of random things, and it’s just funny.

You transferred this year from Dr. Phillips High. How have you been adjusting?

I left all my friends at Dr. Phillips, so I had to make new friends and teammates over here. It’s not bad, it’s just like the first day of school where you have to make new friends, but it’s pretty easy.

Is there a game this season that you’re most looking forward to?

Dr. Phillips — I think it’s going to be an interesting game, because then I have to play against all my friends.

How do you balance playing for the school and your club?

Club takes a break during the highschool season — which is pretty awesome — so then I get to focus more on the

Freediving has become an important aspect of Jimenez’s life.

THE BASICS

AGE: 16 YEAR: Junior HOMETOWN: Orlando HEIGHT: 5-foot-6 POSITION: Left forward CLUB TEAM: Florida Kraze Krush ECNL

Courtesy

Free-diving to new depths CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15

high-school season, but we still have (club) practices on the weekend.

depths of water.

Despite its simplistic nature, free-diving can push the body to its limits depending on the depths to which a diver goes. For instance, Austrian professional free-diver Herbert Nitsch currently holds the world record in the sport for depth, which he set at 831 feet in June 2012.

Although Jimenez isn’t pushing those kind of insane numbers, she’s become an impressive freediver herself — pushing herself to become better with each dive.

But how does one get into a sport like this? It all started with a game that most of us play as children.

“It was a competition to see who could hold their breath the longest, and I made it a goal to always be the one who held their breath the longest,” Jimenez said.

“In Laredo (Texas), during the summer, it’s extremely hot, and the town of Laredo there isn’t much to do, so the cool thing to do was go hang out in the pool.

“It’s me and 24 cousins that are my age,” she said. “We’d prac-

Who is your pro soccer team?

Manchester United. They have some of my favorite players and a good dynamic. (They have) great passing and great chemistry.

Do you have a favorite women’s soccer team?

It’s between UNC and FSU, but recently, FSU won the Women’s College Cup so it’s FSU. A couple of older teammates go to FSU, so it’s also for them.

Who in the soccer world do you admire?

The greats — Paul Pogba, who has a great mentality and its great on and off the field, he’s a great person. Also Sydney Leroux, because she bounces back from a lot of things and is very positive and good at what she does.

What’s the best sportsrelated advice you’ve been given?

Always strive for greatness and never be satisfied with what you have.

Sometimes, if I score a certain amount of goals I feel like, “OK, that’s enough,” but in reality, you can always (achieve) more.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15

getting a coach whose years of experience and love for the game go back much further than when he was assisting at Providence.

Hoff recalls that at age or 6 or 7, his parents brought home the family’s first basketball goal.

It was a simple present, but it sparked a lifelong love of the game.

“They put the goal up in the back, and that was the best day ever,” Hoff said. “(My three brothers and I) … would just play basketball all day — so I fell

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I’m a risk-taker, but they’re always there the times that I dive — especially my dad, because he is a really good swimmer like me.”

Any sport has its risks — although free-diving has its own unique challenges — which means that practice is key to limiting any possible issues.

Jimenez practices her freediving at least once a week in local springs, although she also gets added swim practice and training as a life guard at Universal’s Volcano Bay. The practice she puts in goes a long way to helping her push herself further, but Jimenez still considers the sport as a fun hobby. However, don’t expect her to give up her sport or goal of eventually hitting 65 to 80 feet.

“If one day I think that I have the chance to go pro, I would love to do this in competition, because I’m very competitive,” Jimenez said. “But for now, I want to do it as a hobby, because surprisingly, it’s something that relaxes me a lot. Nothing can really bother you when you’re down there.”

Prepped for success

What’s your favorite Christmas tradition?

Opening one present on Christmas Eve and doing the family pajamas.

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tice swimming, racing, holding breath — it literally started just from kids messing around in the pool.”

Although the Texas native started in working on her craft in the pool, she quickly moved to training in springs when she and her family moved to Florida when she was 8 years old.

Her first real dive came at Salt Springs up in Marion County.

There, Jimenez dived 35 feet and set into place the notion that she was doing something cool.

“That was the first time that I was like, ‘Wow, I can actually go pretty deep,’” Jimenez said.

Although Jimenez enjoys her dives and exploration of underwater worlds, her parents — especially her mom — still get nervous whenever she goes down for long periods of time, she said.

Most times when she goes on her dives, her dad will swim down a short ways and keep an eye on her. However, once she hits a certain depth, visibility can get hazy.

“They worry if I’ve been down there for a long time,” Jimenez said, laughing. “They know that

Photo by Troy Herring

Brian Hoff is ready to keep the Lakers’ strong tradition going.

in love with the sport then. It’s crazy how much the game has blessed me from then to now.”

His passion eventually led him to walk on to the basketball team at Florida State University as a shooting guard in 2005. By his senior season, Hoff was a scholarship player and a team captain.

Like most athletes looking to go into coaching, once his playing days were over, Hoff went to straight to the high-school level and began his career under Martin.

Now at Windermere Prep and working with totally new players — some of whom have never played at the varsity level — Hoff is starting anew. But the good news, he said, is that everyone seems to be getting “it.”

“I’m a new coach, so I’m going to have a little bit different of a philosophy than coach Wilson did, so it’s a little bit of a learning curve for some of these guys,” Hoff said. “The guys are really doing a great job on putting their thinking caps on and giving me all they’ve got.”

Still early in the season, there is plenty of time for Hoff and his boys to get the kinks figured out.

In the meantime, Hoff will get to enjoy his favorite aspect of the game of basketball — growing.

“The thing I’m most looking forward to the most is just growing,” Hoff said. “I’m looking forward to getting better as a team, getting better as a coach and just building those lifetime memories that you have with a team.”

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2018

Olympia girls soccer sneaks past Lake Minneola in 4-3 win

Ellie Ferguson stretches out to stop the ball as it rolls past her.

Right: Cameron Cisewski fights off a defender as she makes a play for the ball.

ONLINE

— TROY HERRING

See more photos at OrangeObserver.com

T

he Olympia Titans girls soccer team kept its strong season going with a 4-3 win over Lake Minneola (0-2) Wednesday, Nov. 28.

Despite giving up three goals — one of which occurred in the first three minutes of play — in a back-and-forth first half, the Titans’ (5-1, 0-1) own senior defender, Cameron Cisewski, snagged two goals for herself, before getting help from freshman Maya Weber and junior Ellie Ferguson in the second half.

The four goals put up by the Titans is the fifth time in six games that Olympia has scored four or more goals, giving them a scoring average of five goals per game.

Ashley Gonzalez keeps her eye on the ball the ball as it flies her way.

Right: Maya Weber looks to make a play for the Titans.

Taryn Gilgallon streaks past defenders.

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2018

I LOVE WEST ORANGE

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THURSDAY, DEC. 6 High: 67 Low: 48 Chance of rain: 0%

FRIDAY, DEC. 7 High: 73 Low: 56 Chance of rain: 10%

Sunrise Sunset Thursday, Dec. 6

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5:29p

Friday, Dec. 7

7:06a

5:29p

Saturday, Dec. 8

7:06a

5:30p

Sunday, Dec. 9

7:07a

5:30p

Monday, Dec. 10

7:08a

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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.

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Each of the following incentives begin on new home contracts written as of 11/01/18 through 12/15/18 (“Promotion Period”) and is valid on the purchase of eligible select inventory homes that can close by 12/15/18 in select Taylor Morrison Orlando area communities and satisfy all additional criteria as follows: *Limited time Closing Cost Incentive buyer must pre-apply with Affiliated Lender before submitting offer to qualify for the promotion (“Closing Cost Incentive”). Seller will pay all applicable Closing Costs at Closing, excluding discount points or pre-paid items, which contributions will vary depending on the eligible home selected and other restrictions described below, if qualified buyer utilizes Seller’s affiliated lender Taylor Morrison Home Funding, LLC, NMLS #149227 (“Affiliated Lender”) and the Title Company was selected only through Seller (“Preferred Title Company”). Closing Cost Incentive not applicable outside of the Promotion Period or Orlando-area or in the above excluded Taylor Morrison Orlando-area community. Closing Cost Incentive may not be, unless expressly set forth in Buyer’s Purchase Agreement Documents. Total closing cost contribution credited at closing and subject to Seller’s contribution limitations based on mortgage program and loan to value guidelines that are outside of Seller’s control. All loans are subject to underwriting and loan qualification of the lender. Services not available in all states. Rates, terms and conditions offered are subject to change without notice. Additional licensing, disclaimers and other details, including special financing incentives (as applicable), may be found at www.taylormorrison.com. Buyer is not required to finance through Affiliated Lender or to use such Title Company selected by Seller to purchase a home; however, buyer must use both such settlement services to receive the above or certain other Closing Cost incentives. For more information about affiliated lender, its licensing and other financing information, please visit taylormorrison.com/aba. **Limited time Appliance Package is valid for cash or financed buyer and includes a washer, dryer and side-by-side refrigerator not to exceed $7,000. The specific appliance make/model/colors and actual value selected by Taylor Morrison vary by Community/Home and remain subject to change***Limited time $5,000 off the total purchase price of the home is valid for cash or financed buyers. Offer void where prohibited or otherwise restricted by law. All incentives, pricing, availability and plans subject to change or delay without notice, and pricing may not include options, upgrades, lot or elevation premiums. Included and upgraded features will vary by home. Limited time offers, additional restrictions and limitations may apply and all “Special Offers” incentive programs subject to change prior to contract. Square footage and dimensions are estimated and may vary in actual construction. Please see a Taylor Morrison Sales Community Manager for additional details © October, 2018, Taylor Morrison of Florida, Inc. FL GC#CBC1257822. Royal Oak Homes, LLC. CBC#1261230. Avatar Properties, Inc. CBC#1260030. All rights reserved.

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OBSERVER

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21

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2018

A

home in the Bay Hill

DR. PHILLIPS

community in Dr.

The home at 10956 Woodchase Circle, Orlando, sold Nov. 27, for $415,000. Built in 1997, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 2,647 square feet. The price per square foot is $156.78.

Phillips topped all West Orange-area residential real-estate transactions from Nov. 25 to 30.

AVALON AT TURTLE CREEK

CYPRESS CHASE

sold Nov. 26, for $2.275

The home at 9409 Pecky Cypress Way, Orlando, sold Nov. 27, for $368,000. Built in 2004, it has five bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 2,687 square feet. The price per square foot is $136.96.

million. Built in 2008,

DELLAGIO

The home at 6119 Tarrawood Drive, Orlando,

it has five bedrooms, seven-and-one-half baths a pool and 8,001 square feet of living area.

The price per square foot

The home at 8178 Via Vittoria Way, Orlando, sold Nov. 25, for $716,990. Built in 2017, it has three bedrooms, threeand-one-half baths and 2,968 square feet. The price per square foot is $241.57.

DIAMOND COVE

selling homes in each

The home at 8325 Diamond Cove Circle, Orlando, sold Nov. 28, for $440,000. Built in 1995, it has four bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 2,270 square feet. The price per square foot is $193.83.

community in West

NORTH BAY

is $284.34.

These are the highest-

The home at 5625 Bay Side Drive, Orlando, sold Nov. 30, for $440,000. Built in 1993, it has four bedrooms, two-andone-half baths, a pool and 2,249 square feet. The price per square foot is $195.64.

Orange.

realtor.com

This Bay Hill home, at 6119 Tarrawood Drive, Orlando, sold Nov. 26, for $2.275 million. This Tuscany-style mansion is situated on the 13th fairway of the Bay Hill Club.

Total Sales: 92 High Sale Price: $2.275 million Low Sale Price: $37,000 ORANGE TREE COUNTRY CLUB

The home at 6998 Edgeworth Drive, Orlando, sold Nov. 30, for $385,000. Built in 1987, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,255 square feet. The price per square foot is $170.73.

PALM LAKE

The home at 8753 Crestgate Circle, Orlando, sold Nov. 27, for $630,000. Built in 1999, it has four bedrooms, four baths, a pool and 3,358 square feet.

The price per square foot is $187.61.

Offices in Celebration and Windermere

The townhouse at 8865 Della Scala Circle, Orlando, sold Nov. 26, for $370,000. Built in 2012, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 2,402 square feet. The price per square foot is $154.04.

SANDY SPRINGS

The home at 7939 Palmdale Drive, Orlando, sold Nov. 27, for $410,000. Built in 1988, it has five bedrooms, two-andone-half baths, a pool and 2,748 square feet. The price per square foot is $149.20.

RESERVE AT PHILLIPS COVE

The home at 6909 Phillips Reserve Court, Orlando, sold Nov. 27, for $515,000. Built in 2017, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 3,942 square feet. The price per square foot is $130.64.

VIZCAYA HEIGHTS

The condo at 8761 The Esplanade, No. 5, Orlando, sold Nov. 30, for $402,000. Built in 2004, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,824 square feet. The price per square foot is $220.39.

SAND LAKE HILLS

The home at 6669 Sugarbush Drive, Orlando, sold Nov. 26, for $341,400. Built in 1977, it has four bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 2,357 square feet. The price per square foot is $144.85.

SEE REAL ESTATE PAGE 22

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 8013 Sandberry Blvd., Orlando, sold Nov. 26, for $340,000. Built in 1987, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 1,925 square feet. The price per square foot is $176.62.

POINT CYPRESS

SNAPSHOT

Single Family Home in Winter Haven 5 Bed/2.5 Bath/2,773 Sq Ft Offered at $209,900 MLS# O5720009

Townhouse in Lakes Reams 2 Bed/2.5 Bath/1,211 St Ft Offered at $219,999 MLS # S5009808

Immaculate town home in Lakeview Pointe 3 Bed/2.5 Bath/ 1,986 Sq Ft Offered at $314,000 MLS # S5007357

DU RE

DU RE

DU RE

DU RE

1633 Wind Harbor Rd Custom-Built Home in Belle Isle 4 Bed/3 Bath/2,668 Sq Ft Offered at $349,000 MLS # S5004734

7196 Enchanted Lake Dr

CE D

First Floor Condo Hotel 3 Bed/2 Bath/1,437 Sq Ft Offered at $164,999 MLS # O5723374

CE D

12327 Cruxbury Dr

CE D

546 Cody Caleb Dr

CE D

8827 Worldquest Blvd Unit #2108

1112 Golf Course Pkwy

8245 Pond Apple Dr

11007 Ledgement Ln

Single Family Home in Davenport 6 Bed/4 Bath/3,078 Sq Ft Offered at $369,900 MLS # O5726631

Single-Story Home in Summerlake 3 Bed/2 Bath/2,526 Sq Ft Offered at $395,500 MLS # S5004308

Pool Home in Windermere 4 Bed/3 Full + 2 Half Bath/3,596 Sq Ft Offered at $499,000 MLS # O5718966

www.Century21BlueSky.com

Toll Free 1-877-YOUR C21

Property Management Line

407-566-9382

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REAL ESTATE

Bay Hill estate sells for $2.275 million

OBSERVER

|

VIZCAYA TOWNHOMES

REAL ESTATE

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2018

The townhouse at 8216 Tivoli Drive, Orlando, sold Nov. 30, for $430,000. Built in 2002, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 1,994 square feet. The price per square foot is $215.65.

HORIZON WEST

HAMLIN RESERVE

The home at 15207 Honeybell Drive, Winter Garden, sold Nov. 26, for $503,500. Built in 2017, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 3,044 square feet. The price per square foot is $165.41.

HICKORY HAMMOCK

The home at 16011 Tangerine Blossom Way, Winter Garden, sold Nov. 26, for $545,000. Built in 2016, it has five bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths, a pool and 3,553 square feet. The price per square foot is $153.39.

INDEPENDENCE/ SIGNATURE LAKES

The home at 15556 Avenue of the Arbors, Winter Garden, sold Nov. 29, for $850,000. Built in 2018, it has five bedrooms, five-and-one-half baths and 5,725 square feet. The price per square foot is $148.47.

So local, it feels like your garage!

The home at 14651 Whittridge Drive, Winter Garden, sold Nov. 30, for $365,000. Built in 2006, it has five bedrooms, four baths and 3,621 square feet. The price per square foot is $100.80.

The home at 15718 Signature Drive, Winter Garden, sold Nov. 30, for $303,000. Built in 2011, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,920 square feet. The price per square foot is $157.81.

LAKESHORE PRESERVE

The townhouse at 8926 Bismarck Palm Drive, Winter Garden, sold Nov. 29, for $365,000. Built in 2017, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 2,016 square feet. The price per square foot is $181.05.

LAKEVIEW POINTE

The home at 7278 Twilight Bay Drive, Winter Garden, sold Nov. 27, for $350,000. Built in 2018, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,014 square feet. The price per square foot is $173.78.

Call Today!

ORCHARD PARK

The home at 3095 Irish Peach Drive, Winter Garden, sold Nov. 30, for $401,964. Built in 2018, it has five bedrooms, three baths and 3,009 square feet. The price per square foot is $133.59.

IN WINTER GARDEN

407-654-3037 www.stoneybrookweststorage.com

SUMMERPORT

stoneybrookwestss@cfl.rr.com

The home at 5014 Wise Bird Drive, Windermere, sold Nov. 28, for $335,000. Built in 2004, it has four bedrooms, two-andone-half baths and 2,342 square feet. The price per square foot is $143.04.

407-905-7898 www.maguireroadstorage.com maguireroadstorage@cfl.rr.com

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IN OCOEE

VINEYARDS

RESERVE AT BELMERE

WESTSIDE VILLAGE

TILDENS GROVE

WINDERMERE LANDINGS

TOWN OF WINDERMERE

WINDERMERE TRAILS

WEATHERSTONE ON LAKE OLIVIA

WINDERMERE

WESTOVER RESERVE

The home at 6632 Bridgewater Village Road, Windermere, sold Nov. 29, for $387,000. Built in 2013, it has five bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,924 square feet. The price per square foot is $132.35.

The home at 12958 Westside Village Loop, Windermere, sold Nov. 26, for $455,000. Built in 2018, it has five bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 3,717 square feet. The price per square foot is $122.41.

The home at 6378 Golden Dewdrop Trail, Windermere, sold Nov. 29, for $294,000. Built in 2012, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,139 square feet. The price per square foot is $137.45.

The townhouse at 8430 Coventry Park Way, Windermere, sold Nov. 26, for $279,000. Built in 2015, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,680 square feet. The price per square foot is $166.07.

KEENE’S POINTE

The home at 8328 Lake Burden Circle, Windermere, sold Nov. 30, for $1,422,500. Built in 2006, it has four bedrooms, four baths, a pool and 4,992 square feet. The price per square foot is $284.96.

The home at 8508 Bowden Way, Windermere, sold Nov. 28, for $799,000. Built in 2000, it has five bedrooms, four baths, a pool and 3,924 square feet. The price per square foot is $203.62.

The home at 1638 Lake Rhea Drive, Windermere, sold Nov. 28, for $689,000. Built in 2003, it has five bedrooms, four baths, a pool and 3,434 square feet.

The price per square foot is $200.64.

The home at 13445 Bonica Way, Windermere, sold Nov. 29, for $755,000. Built in 2006, it has four bedrooms, threeand-one-half baths, a pool and 3,633 square feet. The price per square foot is $207.82.

The home at 1 First Court, Windermere, sold Nov. 28, for $800,000. It has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 3,024 square feet. The price per square foot is $264.55.

The home at 9649 Weatherstone Court, Windermere, sold Nov. 28, for $760,000. Built in 1999, it has five bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths, a pool and 4,226 square feet. The price per square foot is $179.84.

The home at 2015 Westover Reserve Blvd., Windermere, sold Nov. 27, for $679,900. Built in 1999, it has three bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths, a pool and 3,628 square feet. The price per square foot is $187.40.

WINDERMERE DOWNS

The home at 9650 Wild Oak Drive, Windermere, sold Nov. 29, for $379,000. Built in 1986, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,283 square feet. The price per square foot is $166.01.

“ Difference We Make a

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2018

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LUXURY THE WAY YOU WANT IT

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

LAKESHORE Quick Delivery Homes Available!

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

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ROYAL CYPRESS PRESERVE Personalize Your Dream Home Today!

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OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2018

OrangeObserver.com

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18-SYSTEM-07263 Windermere Observer - December.indd 1

11/15/18 8:58 AM