12.22.16 Windermere Observer

WINDERMERE

Observer Serving Southwest Orange County

YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD. FREE

VOLUME 2, NO. 11

YOUR TOWN Dancers shine in competition

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2016

Merry Christmas!

All of us at Observer Media Group wish you a fun-filled holiday season.

Summerport sensation Dancers from Elizabeth Parsons School of Dance participated at the Florida Dance Masters Thanksgiving Convention in Orlando, and Sophie Graham placed as a finalist in the Teen Miss Dance competition. Other FDM solo competitors were Abby Crant, Reagan Dobrolecki and Adara Evans.

These students were awarded scholarships from Florida Dance Masters: Abby and Sophie for acrobatics, Anna Lee for jazz and Caroline Lee for ballet.

Caroline also received an additional scholarship for Top Ten Overall. Reagan received honorable mention for ballet.

Office closed for holidays

The West Orange Times and Windermere Observer office will be closed for the Christmas and New Year’s holidays beginning Friday, Dec. 23.

The office will reopen at 8:30 a.m. Monday, Jan. 2, 2017.

Michael Eng

Summerport residents Mickey and Minnie Baus — yes, that’s their real names — once again invite neighbors to their festive, Disney-inspired Christmas at Mickey’s House display. This year’s display featured myriad decorations, including inflatable snowmen, Disney characters and lights. For more information, visit the Baus’ website, mickeyshome.com, or read our story at bit.ly/2hkAgMh.

A BEAUTIFUL SIGHT

Windermere Library celebrates 25 years The Windermere Library opened at its location on Main Street in 1991.

AMY QUESINBERRY RHODE COMMUNITY EDITOR

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

*****************ECRWSSEDDM****

Postal Customer

MetroWest welcomes the holiday season with WinterFest. 12

Town staff, elected officials, residents and Orange County Library System representatives gathered Saturday, Dec. 17, to mark the 25th anniversary of the Franklin W. Chase Memorial Library at 530 Main St. “Today, we rededicate the Windermere Library in honor of those many, many people over

our town’s history who saw a need and worked tirelessly donating their time, talent, financial resources and the, oh, so, many books in order to make a difference for future generations,” said Windermere Mayor Gary Bruhn before cutting the ribbon on the front porch.

Inside, guests enjoyed raffles, children’s crafts and celebratory cake.

The Windermere branch has more than 55,000 books, DVDs and CDs available and hosts a variety of programs and classes for children and adults.

SEE LIBRARY PAGE 4

ARTS & CULTURE

Jazz musicians help you get the most out of Pilars’ weekly jam.

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WINDERMERE OBSERVER

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YOU R CALENDAR

THURSDAY, DEC. 22

LIVE MUSIC: THE TONY ESCAPA TRIO 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 22, at Dexter’s of Windermere, 4757 The Grove Drive, Windermere (407) 258-7028.

FRIDAY, DEC. 23

FAMILY FOOD TRUCK NIGHT 5 p.m. Friday, Dec. 23, at Town Hall, 520 Main St., Windermere.

IN HIS NAME! WE DANCE 4 and 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 23, at Garden Theatre, 160 W. Plant St., Winter Garden. Presented by the Centre for Dance & the Performing Arts, this Winter Garden tradition is in its 23rd year. Tickets are $12 to $15 and are available at gardentheatre. secure.force.com.

WINDERMERE FARMERS MARKET 9 a.m. Friday, Dec. 23, at Town Hall, 520 Main St., Windermere.

For more, visit town.windermere.fl.us.

SUNDAY, DEC. 25

GRAND CHANUKAH CELEBRATION 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 25, at Chabad of South Orlando, 7347 W. Sand Lake Road, Orlando.

TUESDAY, DEC. 27

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2016

SOUTHWEST BOOK CLUB 7 to 8:45 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 27, at the Southwest Library, 7255 Della Drive, Orlando. Celebrate the annual Joy of Reading event, share a favorite read with others, learn about new books and authors, and relax and enjoy light refreshments. Ages 18 and up. (407) 835-7323.

BLOOD DRIVE 2 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 28, at the Hugh T. Gregory American Legion Post 63, 271 W. Plant St., Winter Garden. Held in conjunction with Florida’s Blood Centers, which will have its van set up in front of the legion hall. Donors receive free movie vouchers. The post will be open with sodas, coffee, tea, water, fruits and pastries available for purchase. (321) 662-5883.

SATURDAY, JAN. 8

THURSDAY, DEC. 29

SATURDAY, JAN. 14

LIVE MUSIC: THE TONY ESCAPA TRIO 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 29, at Dexter’s of Windermere, 4757 The Grove Drive, Windermere (407) 258-7028.

DODGEBALL TOURNAMENT 9 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 8, at the Rosen JCC, 11184 S. ApopkaVineland Road, Orlando. Tournament is open to five-player teams, ages 14 and older. Cost is $100 per team entry or $20 per individual. Cash prizes will be awarded to the winning teams. Register at rosenjcc. org/dodgeball or call (407) 387-2749.

HAPPY NOON YEAR 11:15 a.m. Friday, Dec. 30, at the Southwest Library, 7255 Della Drive, Orlando. Make some noise and ring in the noon year with your little ones. Join in the fun and games with an exciting countdown at noon. Ages 3-12.

(407) 835-7323.

BLUE HIKE: LAKE BEAUCLAIR TOUR 8:30 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 14, at the Trimble Park Ramp, 5802 Trimble Park Road, Mount Dora.

Join Oakland Nature Preserve President Jim Peterson for a two- to three-hour kayak tour on the lake. Participants must bring their own canoe or kayak and a life jacket. No beginners or inflatable kayaks. Preregistration required at oaklandnaturepreserve.org. Limited space is available. Free for ONP members, $5 for others. (407) 905-0054.

THURSDAY, JAN. 5

SATURDAY, JAN. 21

FRIDAY, DEC. 30

RETIRED EDUCATORS 10 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 5, 2017, at College Park United Methodist Church, 644 W. Princeton St., Orlando. The Orange County Retired Educators Association is for anyone who has worked in education. This month’s program is on home and personal safety and elder law. (407) 677-0446.

ECOSATURDAY: WINTER WONDERLAND 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 21, at the Tibet-Butler Preserve and the Vera Carter Environmental Center, 8777 County Road 535, Orlando. It’s winter in Florida, but what is winter like in other places around the world? Investigate the environmental changes that happen when the temperature drops and use science to create some Floridaready snow. Ages 7 and older; limited to 30 people. Class is free. (407) 254-1940.

CHRISTMAS SERVICES SATURDAY, DEC. 24

WINDERMERE BAPTIST CHURCH CHRISTMAS EVE 3 p.m. (kid friendly) and 4:30 p.m. (Choir, Carols & Candles) Saturday, Dec. 24, at the Lakeside Campus, 8464 Winter Garden Vineland Road, Windermere; and 4:30 p.m (kid friendly), 6 p.m. (Choir, Carols & Candles), 6:30 p.m. (Choir, Carols & Communion — chapel) and 7:30 p.m. (Choir, Carols & Candles) and 8 p.m.

(Choir, Carols & Communion — chapel) Saturday, Dec. 24, at the downtown campus, 300 Main St., Windermere.

For more, visit fbcwindermere. com/christmas-at-fbcw.

LIFEBRIDGE CHURCH CANDLELIGHT SERVICES 5 and 6:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 24, at LifeBridge Church, 12120 Chase Road, Windermere. For more, call (407) 505-4888 or email to info@ lifebridgechurch.org.

SUNDAY, DEC. 25

ST. LUKE’S UMC CANDLELIGHT SERVICE Services at 4, 5:30, 7, 8:30, 10 and 11:15 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 24, in the sanctuary at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, 4851 S. Apopka-Vineland Road, Orlando. Children are invited to attend the 4 p.m. service dressed in costumes for the annual Children’s Nativity Pageant. A limited number of costumes will be available. Arrive no later than 30 to 45 minutes before each service for the best chance of seating. (407) 876-4991 or st.lukes.org/schedule.

WEST ORANGE CHURCH OF CHRIST CANDLELIGHT SERVICE 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 24, at West Orange Church of Christ, 1450 Daniels Road, Winter Garden. The worship gathering will include a candlelight service, a reading of the Christmas story from the Gospels, Christmas songs and Communion. (407) 656-2770.

WEST ORANGE CHURCH OF CHRIST CHRISTMAS DAY 10 a.m. Sunday, Dec. 25, at West Orange Church of Christ, 1450 Daniels Road, Winter Garden. The worship gathering will include a candlelight service, a reading of the Christmas story from the Gospels, Christmas songs and Communion. (407) 656-2770.

WINDERMERE BAPTIST CHURCH CHRISTMAS DAY 9:45 a.m. (unplugged) Sunday, Dec. 25, at the Lakeside Campus, 8464 Winter Garden Vineland Road, Windermere; and 11 a.m. (unplugged) and 6:30 p.m. (Brazilian) Sunday, Dec. 25, at the downtown campus, 300 Main St., Windermere. For more, visit fbcwindermere.com/christmas-at-fbcw.

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WINDERMERE OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

A little girl with a big heart Holy Family Catholic School kindergartner Allie Gurgen’s big heart shined bright with her determination to make a difference.

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2016

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Christmas memories With visions of Hatchimals and Nintendo NES Classic Editions dancing in heads across West Orange, we asked our community leaders to share their favorite childhood Christmas gifts.

DANIELLE HENDRIX STAFF WRITER SOUTHWEST ORANGE

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“I can’t remember the name of it, but I think it was Mattel Battleship Betsy, something like that. ... It was a battleship that was on wheels that you could play with, had little dollies and all that.”

— Windermere Mayor Gary Bruhn

“I had a wealthy uncle and aunt, and they had sent me a present.

It drove me nuts. I shook it and shook it for three days before Christmas. It was a rocket launcher, and it had three on one side and three on the other. And I broke three of them shaking it so much.”

— Winter Garden Mayor John Rees

“I didn’t know if she would just stand behind the table, but she was out there flagging cars,” Lezcano said.

When all was said and done, Allie and her mom counted their earnings — a total of $103. Lezcano matched Allie’s donation, bringing the total to $206. The pair took their earnings to the organization, where coalition representatives met them in the lobby and took a picture with Allie, thanking her for her good deed. She even learned about the coalition’s programs and partnerships that would make her dollars stretch even more.

“I gave it (money) to the poor people who don’t have any money, so I went to a place and took a picture and gave them my money and then they sent it to the poor.”

“I gave it (money) to the poor people who don’t have any money, so I went to a place and took a picture and gave them my money and then they sent it to the poor,” Allie said. “When we got home (after the lemonade stand), my mommy let me eat all the rest of the cookies because I did a really good job.”

It was a learning opportunity for Allie, but Lezcano said she learned so much more from her daughter.

“I learned a lot more from her that day than I think she ever imagined,” she said. “I just wanted to facilitate. Watching her parade up and down the lawn trying to flag cars down goes to show that anybody can make a difference.”

Danielle Hendrix

Barbara Lezcano said that although it was a learning opportunity for Allie, she learned so much more from watching her daughter.

Contact Danielle Hendrix at dhendrix@orangeobserver.com.

— Allie Gurgen

It’s Christmas time!

“My favorite Christmas toy probably was the year I got a bicycle.

It was pink, which is my least favorite color. I’m not sure what my parents were thinking there, but it wasn’t a little kid bike anymore.

It was like a grown woman-sized bicycle. We were still in Michigan, and I was probably 9. And there was snow on the ground, so I couldn’t ride the bicycle. So it sat in the garage until I could ride it. It was just this long anticipation.”

— Orange County District 1 Commissioner Betsy VanderLey

Do we really even know the True Christmas story?

During the holidays many people are lonely and depressed... please come.

Join us December 24th at 12:30pm in Spanish and 5pm in English.

Come to Next Community Church “on purpose!”

Give God the presents, of your presence!

Merry Christmas!

Pastors Sean, Jack and David 13640 W. Colonial Drive Suite #110 • Winter Garden, Florida 34787

www.nextcommunitychurch.com

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hen 6-year-old Allie Gurgen saw a homeless man on the side of the road asking for money, she didn’t understand why — she just knew she wanted to help him.

Allie — a kindergartner at Holy Family Catholic School — and her mom, Barbara Lezcano, were on their way home when she pointed the man out. Sad to see him in need, Allie asked if they could help him. Lezcano didn’t have cash on hand but told Allie that they could come up with something else to do to help.

That’s when Allie thought of holding a lemonade stand to raise money. They decided to donate the earnings to the Coalition for the Homeless of Central Florida.

“I was thinking we could go and feed the homeless and she said, ‘I want to do a lemonade stand,’” Lezcano said. “We talked about whether she wanted it to help kids, but she wanted to help the man on the street. We talked about how it would be more beneficial (for proceeds) to go to an organization that could help more people at once.”

They bought supplies for the stand — lemonade, tea and chocolate-chip cookies — and Lezcano wrote a sign for Allie to color in. Soon enough, the two were in business.

“I was running with the sign over my head,” Allie said. “Mommy made it, and I colored in the letters. I sold (lemonade) and then so many people came, and it was only $1 and some people even gave more than one dollar!”

Allie even learned a thing or two about running a business and got to work on her math skills. Lezcano helped her with learning to make change, but although she facilitated, Allie’s spunky personality shined as she took charge.

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WINDERMERE OBSERVER

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OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2016

Windermere mayor spearheads West Orange Water Initiative Windermere mayor Gary Bruhn has been leading a regional initiative to get state approval for $10 million in funding for an ambitious project to bring sewer to Windermere, Ocoee and Oakland.

GABBY BAQUERO STAFF WRITER

If all goes as planned, the first steps of a goal to install sewer lines in Windermere, Ocoee and Oakland will see significant progress starting March 2017, during the state’s next legislative session.

Windermere Mayor Gary Bruhn has made it his mission to bolster cooperation between himself and the leaders of Ocoee and Oakland to encourage collaboration on a special project. The special project, if successful, would bring infrastructure to all three municipalities that will make a transition to sewer and public water possible.

“I gathered up the various cities and asked them if they would like to become involved,” said Bruhn, describing how he began the project. “Instead of working as specific cities, I proposed we work together as a region and create, what I call, the West Orange Water Initiative.”

After several meetings and discussions held over the past two months, leaders of all three

municipalities agreed to join in the regional initiative, which Bruhn believes will give them an advantage in their quest to obtain $10 million in funding via the Florida Water and Land Conservation Initiative passed in 2014.

The 2014 amendment, also known as Amendment 1, passed with a 75% majority vote. It designates a percentage of revenue from documentary stamp taxes for use in land-acquisition purchases and conservation of water resources and environmental lands.

But as is usually the case with state funding, supporters will first have to jump through a few bureaucratic hoops. Bruhn believes it is entirely possible, however, especially after witnessing Oakland’s triumph in obtaining $1 million for a sewer expansion project after three tries.

“I took a look at how Oakland had been very successful in moving forward with receiving these appropriations, and I gathered up the other cities to take a lesson from Oakland’s playbook,” Bruhn

said. “And of course, Oakland is on board with us, and I’m trying to expand upon what Oakland’s been very successful at doing in the last few years.”

If granted the extra money from Amendment 1, Oakland plans to use it to expand its sewer system for commercial enterprises, while Ocoee intends to upgrade its infrastructure to support sewer.

Bruhn, on the other hand, hopes to use the money to place water main lines throughout Windermere.

“Only 30% of people in Windermere are on public water,” Bruhn said. “Everybody else is pumping water from the aquifer; they have their own wells for water. And my goal would be to try and expand water main lines throughout the town. And people, if they so desire, could hook up to public water.”

Installing additional water main lines would benefit Windermere residents, because it would be cheaper to connect to public water if the main lines are near their home, Bruhn said.

“People spend thousands and

thousands of dollars just to run the water line to their home,” he said. “So, the goal, for me, would be to give people that option, if they would like to go on public water. We would have water mains running throughout various areas, and it would be cheaper to hook up.”

There’s no guarantee the bill will receive Tallahassee’s stamp of approval, but Bruhn remains optimistic. With nothing to lose, receiving just a portion of the requested funding would help them start making the necessary changes and improvements he wants to see.

“I’d be elated,” Bruhn said of how he’d feel if the bill passed.

“But one thing to remember is this is just the first phase. This bill, this money is available for 10 years. And it’s billions of dollars.

If we fail on this first attempt, we will certainly try again. And this money is earmarked for this kind of thing for nine more years.”

Contact Gabby Baquero at gbaquero@orangeobserver.com

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

Friedrich Hayek “Road to Serfdom,” 1944 Publisher / Dawn Willis, dwillis@OrangeObserver.com Executive Editor / Michael Eng, meng@OrangeObserver.com Design Editor / Jessica Eng, jeng@OrangeObserver.com Community Editor / Amy Quesinberry Rhode, aqrhode@OrangeObserver.com Senior Sports Editor / Steven Ryzewski, sryzewski@OrangeObserver.com Staff Writers Gabby Baquero, gbaquero@Orange Observer.com Brittany Gaines, bgaines@Orange Observer.com Danielle Hendrix, dhendrix@OrangeObserver.com Advertising Executives Michelle Gentry, mgentry@OrangeObserver. com Cyndi Gustafson, advertising@Orange Observer.com Ann Marie Vibbert, avibbert@ OrangeObserver.com Creative Services Andrés Tam, atam@OrangeObserver.com Tony Trotti, ttrotti@OrangeObserver.com Customer Service Representatives Allison Brunelle, abrunelle@OrangeObserver.com Sarah Felt, sfelt@OrangeObserver.com

CONTACT US

Library

The Windermere Observer is published once weekly, on Thursdays. It provides subscription home delivery.

The Windermere Observer also can be found in commercial locations and at our office, 720 S. Dillard St., Winter Garden.

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

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

Leila Higgins has been the branch manager since 2010 and has been with OCLS for close to 30 years. The branch circulation lead, Wanda Torres, has served the branch for nine years and the library system for 15.

TO ADVERTISE

HUMBLE BEGINNINGS

The town has had some form of library ever since the 1950s, when John Luff’s Country Store made books available to residents, who could informally exchange books they read and take others to read.

In 1959, four people, June Raboy Kent, Byron Hopkins, Dr. Kay Bishop DuCharme and May Sperry decided the town needed a formal library because the children at Windermere School were without one.

The next year, the Town Council contributed $600 for the construction of a small library building south of where Town Hall was located. It was staffed by volunteers; Byron Hopkins was the first librarian.

The Town Council gave another $500 in 1963 for an addition to be built. Children’s books were shelved in one room, and books for adults were available in the other — all donated by the residents of Windermere.

Through the years, the library moved to various locations, each larger than the previous.

It was next housed in a model home donated by Jerry Chicone.

The only expense was in having it moved and the interior finished ($3,000 for each project), and the town children raised most of the transport money by sponsoring can, bottle and newspaper drives.

The town loaned $1,000 for the moving effort — and later cancelled the debt — but did not otherwise financially support the library in its early years.

WINDERMERE

For display or digital advertising, call Ryan Cater, Michelle Gentry or Cyndi Gustafson at (407) 656-2121.

For classifieds, call (407) 656-2121.

FAMOUS FACE

Courtesy photo

Volunteers hold the ribbon for the officials, Windermere Town Council Members Al Pichon and Bob McKinley, Mayor Gary Bruhn, OCLS Director Mary Anne Hodel and Frank Chase. The ribbon-cutting was held Saturday, Dec. 17, to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Franklin W. Chase Memorial Library in Windermere.

Renovations kept the library at this location until 1991.

The Orlando Public Library sent a bookmobile to Windermere occasionally, and the idea of merging the Windermere Library with Orlando was discussed, but residents were opposed to the thought.

The Windermere Rotary Club took over operations of the facility in 1972, at the suggestion of the Town Council. Elected officials also voted to provide funds for maintenance and a paid librarian.

GROWTH SPURT

In 1977, the Rotary Club established Windermere Library Boosters Inc. to raise money and buy books. At this time, there were roughly 8,000 volumes in stock.

That number grew to 30,000 by 1983.

Joanne Dorr recalls her time as librarian as a pleasant one.

“We had a great collection,” she said. “People donated books and

magazines all the time. It was a great town library. … We provided whatever we could to people. If we couldn’t get the information they needed, we referred them to the Orange County library.”

Dorr took the paid position in fall 1989 and initiated Fabulous Fridays, during which local experts were invited to speak on topics such as sign language, landscaping and clothing designs. This introduced many new patrons to the library and its programs.

By the late 1980s, close to 10,000 guests visited the library annually, creating the need for a larger building. There was still no desire to join Orlando’s library system.

The plan was to build a 4,000-square-foot facility, upgrading from the 1,500 square feet; construction was estimated at $200,000.

An anonymous donor — later determined to be Windermere supporters Frank W. and Helen Chase — gave half the money

One of librarian Joanne Dorr’s most famous visitors during her time at the library was actress Jamie Lee Curtis, who was in Central Florida filming “My Girl.”

“She was renting a house in town and working on a movie,” Dorr said.

“She came in a couple of times, just to look around and get some books and see the town. She wandered in. It was funny because she commented that there was so much to learn, and then, years later, she wrote a children’s book.”

needed. They eventually donated $32,000 more toward the effort.

Dorr began boxing up books to go into the new library building and selling or donating the rest.

The library merged with the Orange County Library System in early 1991, and one of the conditions was that the Chase name be included. In August 1991, the the Franklin W. Chase Memorial Library opened.

Contact Amy Quesinberry Rhode at aqrhode@orangeobserver.com.

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

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

WINDERMERE OBSERVER The Windermere Observer (USPS 687-120) is published weekly for $29 per year ($40 outside of Orange County) by the Observer Media Group, 720 S. Dillard St., Winter Garden, Florida 34787. Periodical postage paid at Winter Garden, Florida.

POSTMASTER send address changes to the Windermere Observer, 720 S. Dillard St., Winter Garden, Florida 34787. Opinions in the Windermere Observer are those of the individual writer and are not necessarily those of the Windermere Observer, its publisher or editors. Mailed letters must by typed and include the author’s signature and phone number. Letters to the editor are subject to editing for space and grammar and become the property of the newspaper.

Windermere Observer 720 S. Dillard St. Winter Garden, FL 34787

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WINDERMERE OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2016

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Winter wonderland … on water A

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s the sun made its way beyond the horizon, multiple motorboats decked out with colorful LED lights and Christmas-themed decor appeared on Lake Butler for the annual Windermere Boat Parade.

A town tradition going on 15 years, about 100 vessels participated in this year’s boat parade. Windermere residents and families gathered in their homes’ backyards and boat houses to witness the vessels travel around Lake Butler and Wauseon Bay. The Windermere Boat Parade provided plenty of fun for both the parties on the boats as well as those watching from the shore.

— GABBY BAQUERO

Blair M. Johnson • Wills/Advance Directives • Estates • Corporation/LLC • Commercial transactions • Landlord/Tenant • Real estate: Contracts, Closings, Short Sales, Deed in Lieu • And other matters

About 100 boats participated in this year’s Windermere Boat Parade.

Proudly serving West Orange County for over 36 years.

See more photos at OrangeObserver.com

www.blairjohnsonlaw.com

Located at Terry’s Sweet Crumbs in the Food Court

Stop by and Drop off your “Letters to Santa”

by Dec. 24!

2-day

Holiday Artesian Market Dec 22 & 23

Continuing the 12 Days of Christmas December 13-24

S.T.A.R.S. Gift Wrapping Hours: in Center Court

Friday, 12/16 from 5-9pm Saturday, 12/17 from 12-8pm Sunday, 12/18 from 12-7pm Monday, 12/19 from 11am-8pm Tuesday, 12/20 from 11am-8pm

WHEN RANDOM ACTS OF KINDNESS WILL BE BESTOWED UPON WEST OAKS MALL -GOERS!

SUN

MON

TUES

WED

THURS

FRI

HOLIDAY HOURS

DEC 22 10AM-10PM

DEC 23 10AM-10PM

DIL 11AM-8PM JCP 8AM-MIDNIGHT

DIL 11AM-8PM JCP 8AM-MIDNIGHT

SAT DEC 24 9AM-6PM

DEC 26 10AM-9PM

DEC 27 10AM-9PM

DEC 28 10AM-9PM

DEC 29 10AM-9PM

DEC 30 10AM-9PM

DEC 31 10AM-6PM

DIL CLOSED JCP 6AM-10PM

DIL 12PM-7PM JCP 10AM-9PM

DIL 12PM-7PM JCP 10AM-9PM

DIL 12PM-7PM JCP 10AM-9PM

DIL 12PM-7PM JCP 10AM-9PM

DIL 11AM-6PM JCP 10AM-8PM

JAN 1 12PM-6PM

JAN 2 10AM-9PM

DIL 11AM-6PM JCP 11AM-8PM

DIL CLOSED JCP 10AM-9PM

Sidewalk sale Dec 29, 30, 31, Jan 1

It’s Easy, Fun and Convenient to Shop at West Oaks Mall!

DIL 11AM-6PM JCP 7AM-6PM

DEC 25 CLOSED

New Year’s Day

Wednesday, 12/21 from 11am-8pm Thursday, 12/22 from 11am-8pm Friday, 12/23 from 11am-9pm Saturday, 12/24 from 10am-6pm

Bath & Body Works, Champs, Children’s Place, Dillard’s, Foot Action, Footlocker, GNC, Gymboree, Hollister, JC Penney, JimmyJazz, Kay Jewelers, Lids, Payless Shoe Source, Perfumania, Piercing Pagoda, Spencer Gifts, Things Remembered, Victoria’s Secret and more!

9401 W. CO LO N I A L D R I V E • O CO E E, F L 34761 407-294-1494 W W W. W E S TO A K S M A L L . C O M

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ONLINE

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

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2016

To everyone who:

Runners light night for Bridgewater teacher

• Donated merchandise to the ReStore • Came in to shop • Volunteered • Provided financial support • Cheered us on

M

ore than 200 runners came out for the Light the Night 5K on Wednesday Dec. 14 in support of Bridgewater Middle School teacher Jan Leisher.

Leisher is battling stage-four breast cancer that has metastasized to her bones.

Participants wore glow sticks and ran along a fitness trail at Independence that was lit by hundreds of luminary bags. Leisher waited at the finish line and was given dozens of hugs from runners. By the end of the night, more than $4,000 had been raised.

Thanks for helping us to help others!

13369 West Colonial Drive

www.westorangehabitat.org

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

David W. Boers DDS PA Honest, Skillful and Experienced Dentistry

— BRITTANY GAINES After the run, eighth-graders Ashton Perez, left, and Raymond Singh, right, stopped to give Jan Leisher a hug.

Gabriella Alford, DMD All forms of Restorative and Cosmetic Procedures: Oral Surgery • Root Canals Crowns • Veneers Partials • Dentures Accepting most insurances.

Offering 10 PERCENT OFF on bleaching procedures and oral hygiene products.

Chain of Lakes

Cosmetic & Family Dentistry 1805 Maguire R., Suite 159, Windermere, FL 34786 For more information or to schedule an appointment, please contact us at

407-876-6708

chainoflakesdental@gmail.com • davidboers.com Accepting New Patients • Most Insurances Accepted

More than 200 runners came out to the Light the Night 5K on Dec. 14 that was held at Independence.

After the run, 10th-grader Danny Sgattoni played “Jingle Bells.”

See more photos at OrangeObserver.com

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Are you looking to lend a helping hand this holiday season? Why not adopt a new pet? Isabella (A365089) is 2 years old and is looking for a forever home. She is a friendly, playful dog and she really enjoys a game of fetch. She loves to eat treats, and she even knows how to sit in exchange for one. Isabella is very loving and can’t wait to find a family to spoil her.

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Orange County Animal Services is celebrating the “12 Days of Petmas” by reducing the adoption fee for all animals to just $12 until Dec. 23. The adoption fee includes sterilization, vaccinations and a microchip. Orange County Animal Services is located at 2769 Conroy Road in Orlando near the Mall at Millenia. The shelter is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mondays to Saturdays and 1 to 5 p.m.

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

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onning red sweaters, reindeer antlers, blinking-light necklaces and other festive accessories, residents of Windermere gathered at Town Hall for the 35th annual Holiday Social Dec. 8.

A festival family-room scene was created on the stage, where Santa Claus made an appearance and listened to the wishes of the boys and girls in attendance.

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Schwab does not provide specific individualized tax or legal advice. Where such advice is necessary or appropriate, please consult a qualified attorney, tax advisor, CPA, or investment manager.

Schwab does not provide specific individualized tax or legal advice. Where such advice is necessary ©2016 Charles please Schwabconsult & Co., aInc. (“Schwab”) All rights reserved.

Member SIPC. manager. or appropriate, qualified attorney, tax advisor, CPA, or investment MWD85894-1 (1115-6986) ADP90919-00 (3/16) ©2016 Charles Schwab & Co., Inc. (“Schwab”) All rights reserved. Member SIPC. MWD85894-1 (1115-6986) ADP90919-00 (3/16)

client: Charles Schwab SPECIFICATIONS description: Windermere client: Charles Schwab Schwab does not provide specific tax or legal advice. WhereSPECIFICATIONS such advice5.375” is necessary job #: individualized MWD85894-1 trim size: x 10.125” description: Windermere or appropriate, please consult a qualified tax advisor, CPA, or investment manager.

Schwab #: attorney, ADP90919-00 (3/16) no bleed job #: MWD85894-1 trim size: 5.375” x 10.125” compliance #: 0611-3788 ©2016 Charles Schwab & Co., Inc. (“Schwab”) All rights reserved.

MemberCMYK SIPC. 661.295.5552 Schwab #: ADP90919-00 (3/16) no bleed date: 3.3.16 (PMS299~85-19-0-0) ads@mediawelldone.com MWD85894-1 (1115-6986) due ADP90919-00 compliance #: (3/16) 0611-3788 CMYK 661.295.5552 insertion date: 3.10.16 due date: 3.3.16 (PMS299~85-19-0-0) ads@mediawelldone.com production: Barbara Sigsbury Publication: insertion creative: date: 3.10.16 Jenny Paige West Orange Times production: Barbara Sigsbury Publication: creative: Jenny West Orange Times client: CharlesPaige Schwab SPECIFICATIONS Windermere MWD85894-1 ADP90919-00 (3/16) 0611-3788 3.3.16 3.10.16 Barbara Sigsbury Jenny Paige

trim size:

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CMYK (PMS299~85-19-0-0) Publication: West Orange Times

Council Member Bob McKinley, left, Mayor Gary Bruhn and council members Jim O’Brien and John Armstrong pose in front of the giant Christmas tree at Windermere Town Hall.

Two-year-old Hadley Burkhalter patiently awaits Santa’s arrival.

ONLINE See more photos at OrangeObserver.com

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2016

ARTS + CULTURE QUICK HITS THURSDAY, DEC. 22

LIVE MUSIC: THE TONY ESCAPA TRIO 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 22, at Dexter’s of Windermere, 4757 The Grove Drive, Windermere (407) 258-7028.

FRIDAY, DEC. 23

IN HIS NAME! WE DANCE 4 and 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 23, at Garden Theatre, 160 W. Plant St., Winter Garden. Presented by the Centre for Dance & the Performing Arts, this Winter Garden tradition is in its 23rd year. Tickets are $12 to $15 and are available at gardentheatre. secure.force.com.

SATURDAY, JAN. 9

AUDITIONS: “SHREK THE MUSICAL” 9 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 9, at West Orange High School, 1625 Beulah Road, Winter Garden. The West Orange High School Theatre Department will host public auditions for its production of “Shrek The Musical.” The members of the production team are looking for school-age children from kindergarten through elementary school who would like to be in the show. Those attending will be taught a short, simple dance step by the choreographer. In addition, they must be prepared to sing 30 to 60 seconds of a song of their choosing. They can sing a capella or bring an accompaniment track.

The show will run Feb. 14 through 19, with in-school performances on Feb. 14, 16 and 17. For more information, contact Tara Whitman, (407) 9052400, Ext. 6162683, or Tara.Whitman@ocps.net.

Interested children do not have to be enrolled in an Orange County school to participate.

RAVE OF THE WEEK

Jazz Jam sessions are held every Sunday evening at Pilars Martini in Winter Garden.

THE SWING OF THINGS Have you ever heard jazz but had a hard time unraveling the music’s mysteries? The masters that host Pilars Martini’s weekly Jazz Jam sessions are here to help.

BOOMER CHRISSY HAWKINS Rave — to the sweet couple who randomly bought my daughter this and wished her a merry Christmas at the Walmart in Ocoee. Thank you! It’s things like this that spread the Christmas spirit. Your kindness made us smile and we will pay it forward.

Merry Christmas, and many blessings to you!

BRITTANY GAINES STAFF WRITER

E

WINTER GARDEN

very Sunday evening, local jazz musicians come out to Pilars Martini for a jam session.

They take turns playing on the piano, double bass, drums and any other instrument that gets carted in. It’s reminiscent of the old-school jam sessions that took place back in the mid-1900s.

But the fun of jazz is in the music itself.

“You have to be bitten by the bug,” said Joe Breidenstine, a professional trumpet player from Philadelphia who was the featured jazz musician at Pilars last weekend.

Known as the only true American art form, the key to jazz is improvisation, said Chris Rottmayer, a jazz pianist who started the Sunday Jazz Jam sessions at Pilars last year.

“It’s this improvisation that is the jazz content,” Rottmayer

SEE PAGE 11

Brittany Gaines

THE ERAS GYPSYLAND (1920S TO 1930S) The clarinet was a more popular instrument instead of the trumpet during this era. This is the music still popular in New Orleans.

BEBOP (LATE 1940S TO EARLY 1950S) Charlie Parker was a wellknown jazz musician and composer in this era.

AVANT-GARDE (1950S TO 1960S) Also called free jazz, this form of jazz is completely improvised with no melodic anchor point.

POST-BOP (1960S) Miles Davis helped propel this era into popularity in the 1960s.

INSTRUMENTS OF CHOICE A typical jazz band often included a variety of the following instruments: Double bass, drums, guitar, piano, saxophone, trumpet, clarinet, trombone, vibraphone, organ and harmonica.

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2016

THESE OLD TIMES

FROM THE WINTER GARDEN HERITAGE FOUNDATION FROM THE ARCHIVES

The Pine Tree Inn, recently destroyed by fire, was the showplace of Windermere and drew tourists from around the country. Located on Lake Butler on the west end of Second Avenue, it was a delightful place for relaxing. Inn patrons fell in love with the town and returned to build cottages around the chain of lakes.

Frank Morgan and Roy Fulmer have bought the Superior Cleaners from Tom Mann and Mike Roper.

50 years ago

45 years ago

From Editor’s Notebook: Fouryear-old Sally Osburn was describing to her parents, Kitty and Karl, a Christmas picture she made at nursery school.

“This is baby Jesus, and this is Joseph. And Mary has gone shopping.”

DEC. 25, 1986 When George and Anne Bailey owned The West Orange Times, it was tradition for them to run a full page of Christmas and Happy New Year wishes to their West Orange County readers.

The page always included a fun holiday drawing with Times staffers’ heads pasted onto images of elves, reindeer, Christmas tree bulbs and more.

The Bradford family mailed out this photo Christmas card sometime in the 1950s.

Dr. Ed Bradford was a general practitioner at West Orange Memorial Hospital from its opening in 1952 until his 1987 retirement.

Bradford also served as the former chief of medical staff at the hospital and was a trustee. He is pictured with his wife, Virginia Ayers Bradford, and their children, Wade, Emmett, Edward and Meredith Lea.

80 years ago

Operation Pride has been busy making Windermere Town Hall and the grounds more attractive. The plan highlight is the circle drive in front of Town Hall that will be lit by 30 old-fashioned street lamps. The first lamp burns in memory of John Calvin Palmer, donated by his daughter, Letha Palmer Luff.

THROWBACK THURSDAY

The Winter Garden Heritage Foundation preserves the heritage and architecture of West Orange County while creating new cultural experiences. To donate material of local historic significance to the Foundation, call (407) 656-3244.

The fourth annual West Orange Debutante Ball was held at the Bay Hill Club. Presented were Sarah Arnold, Lynne Howard, Laura Lassetter, Lori Sanders, Lynn Theisen, Barbara Veech and Cynthia Ann Weede.

20 years ago

Efforts to clean up Florida’s most polluted lake got a big boost as the St. Johns River Water Management District’s governing board agreed to pay $19.8 million for the 3,412-acre A. Duda and Sons muck farm on Lake Apopka.

10 years ago

The West Orange Chamber of Commerce honored Ruth Grafton and Marie Williams with the Lifetime Ambassador award.

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2016

How to enjoy jazz CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9

A HOME FOR JAZZ

In September 2015, Rottmayer and his fellow jazz musician Per Danielsson approached Pilars with the idea of creating a weekly jam session. The goal was to create an environment where area jazz students could play alongside professional jazz musicians.

“Jazz has been forever been learned in a mentor relationship on the bandstand, but that doesn’t really exist anymore,” Rottmayer said. “Now, the teaching of jazz

JAZZ JAM SESSIONS WHEN: 5 to 8 p.m. Sundays WHERE: Pilars Martini, 146 W. Plant St., Winter Garden DETAILS: The professional band members play from 5 to 5:45 p.m. Anyone interested in playing with the band must sign up before 5:30 p.m. to take a turn jamming with the band, which lasts until 8 p.m.

Saturday,

has moved into the university setting, but it’s a little too academic. It becomes performance ensembles where (the music) is really worked out. It doesn’t have the energy of performing in front of people.”

And jamming with pros is one of the best ways to learn the tricky art form, Breidenstine said.

“It’s very difficult to master,” he said.

Now, every Sunday, college students and local community members take turns jamming with the band. Some Sundays more than 20 people sign up to join the jam session.

“It’s a very cool event,” said Becky Roper, owner of Pilars.

“It’s a community-driven jazz event, and it’s really interesting to watch.”

For the musicians, Pilars has become the new jazz hub in West Orange County.

“It’s our home away from home,” Silva said. “We feel so welcome here; it feels like family.”

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While the musicians jam, it may be challenging to understand the musical process for jazz novices listening in the audience. But generally, each song revolves around a line of melody.

In the beginning, all the band members play together until they have played through the entire melody — or head — of the song.

Then one-by-one, the members take turns soloing, each improvising a new melodic line based on the original piece.

The order of soloists can either be pre-arranged or completely off-the-cuff, Rottmayer said. But if it’s spontaneous, musicians have to listen carefully to each other to prevent simultaneous soloing.

“Even with the same group, the same song can sound different every night,” said double bass player Charlie Silva.

And listening to jazz live makes the music more interesting, Rottmayer said.

“Not everyone knows about jazz, but I think everyone can identify with it and enjoy it,” he said. “You’d be surprised the energy that’s there.”

Contact Brittany Gaines at bgaines@orangeobserver.com.

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2016

No snow? No problem!

T

he MetroWest Golf Club was filled with people Sunday, Dec. 11, who came out to celebrate the holiday season at the organization’s WinterFest.

Attendees enjoyed food trucks, face painting, an ice slide, performances from Perfect Pointe Productions, pictures with Santa and Mrs. Claus, a life-sized inflatable snow globe, visits from the Grinch and Cindy Lou Who and much more. They could also roam about and visit the numerous vendors in attendance, take a spin on the ice rink and settle down to watch the perfect movie to go along with the theme — “How The Grinch Stole Christmas.”

Matt, Jordan and Kloee Ray got to be the stars of a snow globe for a few minutes.

— DANIELLE HENDRIX Tina Lehman, Alexia Lehman and Ella Williamson pose with stilt walkers dressed as Mrs. Claus and an elf.

See more photos at OrangeObserver.com

Orlando District 6 Commissioner Samuel B. Ings, West Orange Chamber of Commerce President Stina D’Uva, congresswomanelect Chief Val Demings and Orange County Sheriff Jerry Demings loved being a part of the festivities.

Dominic Ocasio was fascinated by the bubble machines.

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Micheal Hill Jr., 3, had fun creating snowballs.

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oliday spirit filled the air at The Grove Orlando Saturday, Dec. 10, as the main courtyard was transformed into a Floridian Winter Wonderland.

Families got to enjoy free, wintry activities ranging from a holiday tune sing-along and a snow pit to train rides and visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Kids also got to play games, create their own ornaments, fill small stockings with holiday treats and get their faces painted.

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WEST ORANGE OBITUARIES

BARBARA JANE BOAST DIED DEC. 14, 2016.

Barbara Jane Boast, age 75, passed away on Dec. 14, 2016, at Dr. P. Phillips Hospital with her family by her side.

She was born Sept. 6, 1941, in Miami, Florida, daughter of Darrell Myers and Evelyn Warnke. She was raised by her mother, Evelyn, and stepfather, William Sidgmore. She was a lifelong Florida resident, having lived in Miami, Leesburg, West Palm Beach, Montverde and Winter Garden.

She worked as a schoolteacher, Children’s Shelter director and Chick-fil-A kitchen manager until she retired.

Jane was preceded in death by her husband, Leroy Edward Boast Jr. Surviving are her son, Marshall (Sidge) Boast, and wife, Jeane; her grandsons, Jordan, Bryson and Camden, of Winter Garden; brother, Steven Myers, and wife, Bertha, of Ocala; and stepsister, Sharon Fairbanks.

Jane’s passions were quilting, Bible Study and family. She was very active in her church and loved teaching Sunday School. She

TONYIA “TONI” LYNN TODD DIED FRIDAY DEC. 16, 2016.

Tonyia “Toni” Lynn Todd, 69, of Asheville, passed away peacefully on Friday, Dec. 16, 2016, at her home. Born on Oct. 28, 1947, in High Point, North Carolina, she was a daughter of the late James Arthur Hucks and Eloise Ross Hucks.

She was a graduate of Boone High School in Orlando, Florida, and an alumna of Eckerd College in St. Petersburg, Florida.

She was employed by the Florida State Employment Agency, but her passion was as an artist. She had the unique ability to bring a picture to life with watercolors

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or just a simple pencil. She was a lifetime dog-lover.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her spouse, Merwin A. Todd.

Surviving is her sister, Jan Schultz, and her spouse, Allan, of Asheville, North Carolina; niece, Alia Schultz, of Gdansk, Poland; and nephews, Travis, Spencer and Parker Schultz, all of Asheville, North Carolina, and Chris Todd and his spouse, Jenny, of Durham, North Carolina.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 22, 2016, in the chapel of Asheville Area Alternative.

Donations may be made in her memory to CarePartners Hospice, 68 Sweeten Creek Road, Unit A, Asheville, North Carolina 28803.

Condolences may be made to the family at AshevilleMortuaryServices.com.

Pastor James Horace Watson, 64, of Montverde, Florida, went to be with his Lord while worshipping in service on Sunday morning, Nov. 27, 2016. He was born June 8, 1952, in Lawrenceburg, Tennessee, to his parents, Dock and Alpha Watson. On July 14, 1972, he married Linda Joyce Dyal in Winter Garden, Florida.

Jim is survived by his wife, Linda, of 44 years; his daughter, Amy (Robert) Marino; two sons, James (Melissa) Watson and Caleb (Jennifer) Watson; six grandchildren, Cheyenne Watson, Isabella Marino, Wyatt Watson, Madison Watson, Easton Watson and Gavin Watson.

He is also survived by his brother, William Neal (Suzzanne) Watson of Winter Garden, Florida; three sisters out of state; and many loving nieces, nephews and extended family. He was preceded in death by his parents and four siblings.

Jim was a loving husband, father, grandfather and friend to all. He was Senior Pastor at Crossroads Family Fellowship in Clermont, Florida. He established the church in Montverde in 2002. He and his father-inlaw, Earl (Ruby) Dyal, operated an air-conditioning and appliance service company beginning in the 1970s that is still in operation through his children.

He was one of the founding members of the South Lake Pastors Fellowship. He was the chaplain for the Central Florida Christian Bass Club and was a member of the Christian Men’s Golf League. He loved spending time with his wife, Linda; they were high school sweethearts, and their love only grew stronger through the years. In their spare time you’d often find them walking the beach hand in hand and just enjoying each other’s presence. He loved time with his family, never missing any of the grandkids’ activities.

His passion was worship and serving the Lord, whether it be in church or his quiet time with God. He had the heart of God for people and to see them ensure their salvation. He loved singing, fishing with his boys, golf and fellowship with family and friends.

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A non-denominational Christian Ministry

EPISCOPAL

CHURCH OF THE ASCENSION 4950 S. Apopka-Vineland Rd., Orlando Sun.Serv 8:30am, 10:30am, 6:30pm.

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

LUTHERAN

ZION NEW LIFE CHURCH 16161 Marsh Road Winter Garden, FL 34787 407-656-5751 Bible Study 8:30AM, Family Service 9:30am, Pastor Roberto E. Rojas, Jr.

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blessed many with her quilts and gifts. She will be greatly missed by her family and all who knew her.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations, in memory of Barbara Jane Boast, to Foundation Academy of Winter Garden, 15304 Tilden Road, Winter Garden, Florida 34787.

A Celebration of Life Memorial Service was held at 10 a.m.

Wednesday, Dec. 21, 2016, at the First Baptist Church of Montverde, 17409 Eighth St., Montverde, Florida, 34756, with the family receiving friends following the service. There was a reception following at the church. Becker Funeral Home, beckerfamilyfuneral.com.

RESULTS FROM DEC. 1.

N-S: 1. B. Ballenger – O. Saffold 2. J. DeLoach – N. Velden 3 J. Thompson – E. Quinn 4. S. Kmiec – M. Ryan 5. P. Curatola – L. Madison; E-W: 1. Y. Peabody – M. Voorhees 2. L. and J. Pylman 3. B. and R. Blair 4. P. Hammer – J. Muzeni 5. C. Johnson – J. Ryan

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

Christ Community Church

PASTOR JAMES HORACE WATSON DIED FRIDAY DEC. 16, 2016.

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DECEMBER 22, 2016

HIGH

SPORTS

5

Windermere High AD, football coach ready for challenges Starting an athletics department or a football program from scratch is no small task, but the Wolverines’ first AD — Fred Priest — and his first hire — football coach Greg Miller — feel excited about the task at hand.

STEVEN RYZEWSKI SENIOR SPORTS EDITOR HORIZON WEST Taking the reins as

the first athletic director for Windermere High, which will open next fall, Fred Priest is in some familiar territory.

Before he spent the past fiveand-one-half years at Apopka High — where he oversaw two state championships in football

1

The Olympia girls basketball team edged rival Dr. Phillips Dec. 15 in an exciting rivalry matchup, 46-44. Taylor Hair had 12 points and 12 rebounds for the Titans (72), and Tiffany Tolbert had 19 points for Dr. Phillips.

A full recap is available at ObserverPreps.com.

AJ Ordona is ready to lead the Holy Family Catholic School boys basketball team this season. Page 16.

along with a string of bowling state championships and even a national title — Priest had been part of the team that opened Lake Nona High in southeast Orange County.

So, in addition to all the minutiae of starting an athletic department for the Wolverines from scratch, Priest said there has to also be an overriding theme as he puts together a team of coaches

who will, ultimately, launch more than a dozen sports programs.

“It’s just like any team that you would build — you need players,” Priest said. “I think you need coaches that understand what it takes to build something. They need to understand that it takes some time to build.”

Priest has begun the process

“It’s just like any team that you would build — you need players.

I think you need coaches that understand what it takes to build something. They need to understand that it takes some time to build.”

— Fred Priest

SEE HIRING PAGE 16

Who’s your caddy?

2

The Dr. Phillips boys soccer team scored a pair of important wins last week, defeating Wekiva Dec. 14, 3-2, and then Jones Dec. 16, 3-1. The Panthers improved to 5-3-2 on the season.

3

The Olympia Titans boys soccer team earned its 10th win of the season Dec. 14 with a 7-0 victory against Trinity Prep. Andrew Lizyness and Ben Cooper each scored two goals, respectively. The Titans (10-0-3) return to action Jan. 4 at Ocoee.

4

Isaiah Reed and Amajeh Green scored 17 points apiece, and Olympia’s boys basketball team (6-4) earned a 59-55 road victory over Metro Conference West Division rival West Orange. A full recap is available at ObserverPreps.com.

5

The Windermere Prep boys soccer team closed the calendar year with a big 4-0 win over Umatilla Dec. 8 to improve to 6-2-2 on the season. Patrick Hunter earned the shutout at goalkeeper for the Lakers.

Steven Ryzewski

Kiddie Kaddie client Aaron Dewitt receives instruction on the course from director of instruction Michael McMillan.

Operating out of Orange County National in Horizon West, Kiddie Kaddie aims to offer local youth and teen golfers a leg up on the competition with professional caddies to work junior tour events.

STEVEN RYZEWSKI SENIOR SPORTS EDITOR

F

HORIZON WEST

or most junior golfers navigating any of the ultracompetitive circuits that run through Central Florida, the term “caddy” is usually synonymous with either “Daddy” or “Mommy.”

And, although having one’s parents caddy for him or her is certainly cost effective, it can

lead to some strained relationships and some tense car rides home depending on how that day’s round goes.

That problem is the opportunity Maria Castellucci recognized leading up to the launch of Kiddie Kaddie, her service operating out of Orange County National that provides professionally trained caddies for junior golfers.

“We started noticing that kids SEE SERVICE PAGE 16

16

SPORTS SPOTLIGHT

WINDERMERE OBSERVER

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OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2016

Hiring to continue for WHS

SPONSORED BY SHANNON TILL STATE FARM IN FOWLER GROVES

AJ Ordona In addition to playing basketball nearly year-round through the Florida Basketball & Volleyball Association, AJ Ordona has emerged as a standout for the middle-school team at Holy Family Catholic School — where he is also well-regarded as a strong student and model citizen. The HFCS team will begin play in January.

How excited are you for the upcoming season with Holy Family?

I’m excited — I think we can do (well) this year, but the main focus is we have to have good defense.

What do you love about playing basketball?

I’m not sure how to explain it. Every time I’m on the court and I touch the ball, there’s just something about it I just really love.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15

of hiring coaches and said his tentative plan is to announce hirings in step with the ending of the sports’ respective season. For example, any winter sport coach hired, such as a boys basketball coach, will not be announced until that season has completed.

Priest already has hired a football coach for Windermere High — former Freedom High assistant Greg Miller — and he, too, is getting right to work.

“I’m ultra-excited right now to get started,” Miller said. “I think for me, as a first-time head coach in Central Florida, I think this is probably the best opportunity that would be out there.”

In addition to assembling a coaching staff, Miller said he is working on getting a head start on building a sense of community for his program.

“One of the first things I wanted to do was to start to establish a connection with the community,” Miller said, mentioning the Twitter account he has created for the football program: @windermerehsfb.

Fortunately, Priest knows about building community.

Five years at Apopka taught the veteran educator plenty about how thoroughly a small town can embrace its high school athletics, and even though the Horizon West community that houses the new school is different, there appear to be some

THE BASICS SCHOOL: Holy Family Catholic School GRADE: Eighth AGE: 14 POSITION: Point guard HEIGHT: 5-foot-5 TRAINS AT: Hoop Dreams Elite

What’s your favorite subject at school?

Math — I like to solve problems.

If you don’t become a professional basketball player, what else might you like to do for a job when you grow up?

Something with engineering — I like aerospace engineering.

— STEVEN RYZEWSKI

What’s the most points you have ever scored in a game?

36 (points), I believe.

What is the most memorable game you have ever played?

I was in fifth grade, and I was playing up against sixthand seventh-graders.

We were in the championship, and I think I scored about 25 points, after the entire of season of not doing too (well).

And it was against the best team.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15

that we were instructing wanted to have us on the bag,” Castellucci said. “And we started to notice a gap, in service, of the different things that a caddy could provide that no one else could.”

Those observations led Castellucci — who herself was once the top female junior golfer in the country before a collegiate career at Florida State and three years of professional golf — to do some research.

“I started asking parents questions about how nervous they got when they caddied for their children and how much pressure they felt,” Castellucci said.

The golfers and their parents weren’t the only ones who stood to benefit, either. Castellucci reached out to two highlevel staffers within one of the

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With the hiring of Fred Priest to be Windermere High’s first athletic director, a ripple effect was felt throughout western Orange County.

DOMINO ONE: WINDERMERE HIRES FRED PRIEST Priest, who has worked in the field for more than 40 years, is chosen as the administrator to launch the Wolverines’ athletics programs after five years at Apopka High.

DOMINO TWO: RUSSELL WAMBLES RETURNS TO APOPKA With the opening created at Apopka High by Priest’s hiring at Windermere, Dr. Phillips athletic director Russell Wambles got the chance to return to his previous school — where he went to high school, himself.

similar opportunities.

“Community is a huge part of that — how much are they going to help? How much are they going to put into this thing?”

Priest said. “I think there is a sense of community out there (near Windermere High), in a different way (from Apopka), because most of the people out there are coming from somewhere else.”

DOMINO THREE: STEVE MCHALE RETURNS TO DR. PHILLIPS The opening created at DPHS

by Wambles’ departure meant an opportunity for Steve McHale who, before three successful years at Ocoee High, was an assistant athletic director for the Panthers.

DOMINO FOUR: SCOTT HOWELL PROMOTED AT OCOEE After two seasons as the assistant athletic director at Ocoee under McHale, Scott Howell has been promoted to athletic director on an interim basis.

For more on the changing athletic director landscape, visit ObserverPreps.com.

Something both men agree on is that while there will be tremendous challenge getting the Wolverines off the ground, there is also tremendous opportunity.

“Just the amount of growth that’s going to be coming here in the next few years, I think it’s just a natural fit,” Miller said.

Contact Steven Ryzewski at sryzewski@orangeobserver.com.

Service looks to grow

Who is your favorite NBA player and why?

Steph Curry, because I really like the way he plays, but I also like how he praises God every time he does something, because I love God as well.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve gotten from your dad, Art Ordona, or your trainer, Bruce Gillard?

You (have) to stay hungry. If you lose that drive to want to practice, then just look for something else.

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national junior tours and discovered the events, themselves, could be improved with professional caddies.

“A lot of the (pace of play) problems they were experiencing on the course were due to parents not knowing the rules, as well as getting over-involved and taking five minutes for a five-foot put,” Castellucci said.

Kiddie Kaddie launched in February 2016 and, among other professionals, has brought on Michael McMillan as its director of instruction. McMillan said having the same person who gives a junior golfer his or her lesson out on the course during an event can be a tremendous benefit.

“When you go out there, you’ll see things you didn’t see in the driving range (for a lesson),” McMillan said. “You just get to learn more (about the golfer) by being out there with them.”

After several years of working within the field, McMillan said it also can be a more effective way of getting advice across to a youth or teen than from his or her parents in that moment. “(Parents are) having to tell these kids all week, ‘Do your homework, make your bed,’” McMillan said. “And then you go out there and try to adjust their grip, and there’s automatically a tension already built up.”

Already, feedback has been positive as several of Kiddie Kaddie’s clients have seen dropping scores.

Castellucci, who has a doctoral degree in mental-health counseling and works with at-

“Our caddies interact with the kids — they keep them laughing, keep them loose.”

— Maria Castellucci

risk children as part of her “day job,” said having a non-family member on the bag can be beneficial from a psyche standpoint, as well.

“Our caddies interact with the kids — they keep them laughing, keep them loose,” Castellucci said.

Castellucci also is excited to partner with McMillan and some of the other professionals to launch her Castellucci Golf Center — a coaching service that will also operate out of Orange County National — in January.

A website for both is under construction, but for now, those interested in getting more information can search for Kiddie Kaddie on Facebook.

And although the services may be an added expense some families may not have in their budget, McMillan said those who do are getting more than just an improved golfer.

“We cover every angle, and then we’re a family unit on top of that,” McMillan said.

Contact Steven Ryzewski at sryzewski@orangeobserver.com.

WINDERMERE OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

|

17

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2016

Lady Bobcats make it a 3-peat STEVEN RYZEWSKI SENIOR SPORTS EDITOR HORIZON WEST They must be put-

ting something in the water at Bridgewater Middle School.

The local middle school celebrated last week as its girls volleyball team won a third consecutive Orange County Public Schools Championship — capping a third consecutive undefeated season — this time without losing a single set throughout the season.

The Lady Bobcats defeated Maitland in the championship game Dec. 14.

“This group, this year, they were phenomenal,” head coach Layla West said. “We just kind of built a family around it.”

The team was led this fall by sisters Cassidy and Amanda Cham-

bers — two of the top-ranked beach volleyball players in the state — and Ana Bleeker, though a total-team effort helped the Bobcats through a season that did not see an opponent score more than 20 points on them in a given set.

Other regular starters for the team included Andie Dolven, Arianna Hernandez, Lissette Stephens and Savannah Cicerchia.

West, who has coached the team for six years and this season was assisted by Katiane Bleeker, said most of the girls at Bridgewater also play for highly competitive club teams.

“I definitely need to give my compliments to the club coaches,” West said.

The success of Bridgewater’s volleyball program in recent years bodes well for the new volleyball program at Windermere High that

will begin play when the school opens in the fall. With zoning finalized for the new school, all of Bridgewater’s athletes will move on to the new school.

Although the dynastic run of the girls volleyball team was more recent, it was not the only cause for celebration, either. The girls soccer team, coached by Brian

Boylan, also brought home some hardware back in October. In the championship game, which took place Oct. 19 at West Orange High, the Lady Bobcats topped rival SunRidge Middle School.

Courtesy photo

The Bridgewater Middle School volleyball team celebrates after its championship victory Dec. 14.

Contact Steven Ryzewski at sryzewski@orangeobserver.com.

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OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2016

I LOVE WEST ORANGE

FORECAST Karen McGregor submitted this photo of a gorgeous sunrise over Johns Lake.

The Windermere 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 aqrhode@ orangeobserver. com; put “I Love West Orange” in the subject line.

Please include your mailing address to receive your prize.

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SPEECH MUCH? by Timothy E. Parker

120 Gives a speech to many 121 ___ tai (bar drink) 122 Family practitioners 123 Without 124 “Full House” costar Bob 125 Hyphenated ID in the U.S.

DOWN

©2016 Universal Uclick

ACROSS

1 Fresh out of the garden 4 Twenty-one gun salute, e.g.

9 Barbecue fare, often 13 “___ Lisa” 17 “And now, without further ___ ...”

18 Even though 19 Skinny and scrawny one 21 Bustles and commotions 22 Speaking-badly observation (Part 1) 26 “The King” of music 27 Some workers from an agency 28 Ireland’s Stone

29 Gossipmonger 30 Food fish or bellyache 31 Hollywood production 32 Mineral that’s easy to split 35 “As good as gold,” is one 38 Big butte 42 Devoted followers 47 Waste time 49 A Muse or advertising award 50 Give abilities to 51 Medieval eyeballs 52 Cow of ads 53 Lorenzo of TV 55 Chinese society or half an ice cube pincher 56 Spike in Hollywood

57 Bits of land 58 Title for a retired professor, often 60 Santa ___, California 62 Went on horseback 64 Speaking-badly observation (Part 2) 72 Gold medalist Lipinski 73 Maple drip 74 Flammable gas 75 Diary kin 79 Storable bed 82 Hardens, as concrete 84 Miss Hawkins of comics 85 Like bees 86 Address to a king 87 Beginning of a simple musical refrain

89 Jungle VIP 90 Oppressed one 92 Good one of the Bible 94 Movie theater unit 95 Grace under fire 97 Baa mas 98 Nimble 99 Charlie Brown exclamation 102 Drum major’s cap 107 On the way 111 Volvo worker, probably 113 Republic in South America 115 Speaking-badly observation (Part 3) 118 Cost of a poker hand 119 Iterate

1 Grating, voice-wise 2 Cherish 3 Word on a restaurant door 4 ___ gin fizz 5 With competence 6 Albanian money 7 Panoramic view 8 “None of the above” alternative 9 “Let us know,” on an invitation 10 Secures, as a victory 11 Certain undergarment 12 Some fish-eating diving ducks 13 Bryn ___ College 14 Deity of the Vikings 15 B flat, for one 16 Gray in the face 18 Burning 20 Kitchen on a ship 23 Supreme suffix 24 Music enhancers 25 Thanksgiving veggie 30 Positive type of attitude 31 Hazelnut 33 Strong feeling of anger 34 Half-man, half-horse creature 36 Worshipped thing 37 Muck companion 38 Shopping mecca 39 “If all ___ fails ...”

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49 Skein of yarn 54 Chapel in the Vatican 57 ___ fixe (obsession) 59 Lift over snow 61 Morning times, briefly 63 Current rule?

65 By unexpressed agreement 66 Some bridge seats 67 Drama with singing 68 Biblical verb 69 Comaneci of gymnastics fame 70 Veggie that can make one teary-eyed 71 Young person 75 Help for the lost 76 Nonlethal fencing sword 77 Sorvino of movies 78 Oven for hop-drying 80 Black-and-white cookie 81 Abound or swarm 83 Makes a tiger approachable 86 Diana Ross’ group (with “The”) 88 “___ we having fun yet?”

91 Hostage taker 93 Debate subjects 96 Make, as beer 98 Start for “pend” 100 “Ciao!” relative 101 Prefix meaning “four” 103 ‘Do coverer 104 President Monroe’s successor 105 Coke nuts 106 Big name in pest control 107 “Good gracious!”

108 Nickname of a perfectly pitched game 109 Campus cadet’s org.

110 Relatives of poems 111 Work a grocery store register 112 Explanations, essentially 113 Suffix with kitchen 114 Atkins of country music 116 D.C.’s nation 117 Stereotypical witch

CRYPTOQUIZ Each of the following cryptograms is a clue to the identity of a popular holiday work. Using the hints D=E and G=S, decipher the clues to name the work.

1. H K G F W V D 2. J Y D Y E R D 3. D G K N 4. S N K R L H E G W V N 5. L V K G W This short story was written by Hans Christian Andersen:

SUDOKU

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3

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WINDERMERE OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

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5 3 6 1 9 7

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2 6 1 TO ADVERTISE CALL

407-656-2121 Or email us at

VIAGRA!! 52 PILLS for Only $99.00. Your #1 trusted provider for 10 years. Insured and Guaranteed Delivery. Call now 1-800-224-0305 12/22fcan

407-656-3495

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The Little Match Girl

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Autos Wanted

ROOFING

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Thursday, December 22, 2016

Broker since 2001

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If you would like to place a classified ad for the December 29 publication, please call 407-656-2121 before 5PM Thursday, December 22, 2016.

8

NORB WELLER

HomeRebateRealty.com

UPGRADES & REPAIRS

Our office will be closed Friday, December 23, 2016 until Monday, January 2, 2017.

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Buying or Selling Any Builder or Realtor

223556

703 S. Vineland Rd. Winter Garden, FL 34787

223561

TFN

223555

(407) 654-8885

advertisenow@orangeobserver.com 720 S. Dillard St. Winter Garden, FL 34787

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2016

This week’s Crossword answers

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OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2016

NEW INDEPENDENT & ASS ISTE D LIVI NG

TH E VI NE S PU B/ BI ST RO THE MAR KET GIFT STO RE WAT ERF RON T PAV ILIO N

BOCCE BALL & GAMING LAWN

FIR EFLY CO URTYA RD & GA RD EN LYRICS CAFE

TH EATER

WALK-IN SWIMMING POOL

B IL LI A R D S & G A M E RO O M

HE ALT HC AR E CO NC IERGE

P R IO R IT Y AC C ES S

OV ER NIG HT SEC UR ITY

WALKING PATH ART & CRAFT STUDIO

FITNESS CENTER & GYM

SCR ATC H KITC HEN OFF ERIN G LOC ALLY GROWN FAR E LARGES T SENIOR APARTM ENTS IN WEST ORANGE COUNTY

THIS CHRISTMAS YOU CAN HAVE IT ALL. RSVP NOW for our model apartment opening event!

Visit us at our Leasing Center at the corner of Daniels Road and Fetterbrush Blvd.

SONATA WEST

420 Roper Road Winter Garden, FL 34787

(407) 654-3530

225142

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SONATAWEST.COM Assisted Living Facility License # Pending

RESORT-STYLE SENIOR LIVING