Garden Variety

Reel History

Witness the power of ordinary people in extraordinary times at this Garden Theatre special event.

I remember that so vividly. That’s the day that changed my life.” So begins the trailer for History Speaks: The Diary of a Generation, a feature-length film compiling stories from the WWII generation. No narrators. No academic experts. History Speaks is a stunning, first-hand account from the people who faced the reality of living in and through a world war. Enlisted soldiers. Fighter pilots. Female marksmen. Navajo soldiers. Japanese internment residents. POWs.

Compiled and directed by local resident Susan Cummings and Shari Doran of Pony Tale Films, the documentary honors the Greatest Generation in a way that preserves their stories for the rest of time.

“Both our fathers were in the War,” says Susan. “We felt one way to honor them and all those who served at home and abroad, would be to interview members of that generation and let them speak for themselves.” “What struck me was how connected we were to people when we started this project,” says Shari. “I’m on the phone with Southwest Airlines needing tickets to get our crew cross country, and the woman on the phone tells me, “Oh, my father was in WWII. This is so amazing you’re doing this. We will pay to fly you wherever you need to go.” A hotel owner tells me, “My aunt was a Rosie the Riveter. Yes, we will take care of you.” That is when I realized these stories are connected to everyone and to future generations.

See the film "History Speaks: The Diary of a Generation," when Pony Tale Films hosts two free screenings at the Garden Theatre, Monday, July 4 at 11am and 1:15pm. A Q&A with filmmaker Susan Cummings will follow the 1:15pm screening. History Speaks also will be available to rent or purchase via Amazon.

Vocal Locals: Who would you describe as “extraordinary”?

My very good friend Ms. Rhonda is like my second mom. She taught me about all the important things, like wine and Publix cookies. She’s always been there for me, even when we lived across the country!

—Aubri D.

I would describe Maya Angelou as extraordinary. She had such strong character. She endured unimaginable hardships, but she used those challenges to inspire others.

—Michele S.

My college softball coach was a mentor for everyone. She was so dedicated to the sport and to supporting us. She took us to the state championships that year, and always encouraged us to be more.

—Jana B.

Rowdy Gaines and Mitzi Tighe are extraordinary, not only because they were Olympic medalists, but they are great bosses to work for and helped shape my career before I became a teacher.

—Jessica W.

LOCAL HISTORY: Hometown Hero

On Oct. 19, 1916, George and Mildred Bray McMillan and their daughter, Evelyn, welcomed George Bray McMillan to the family. Raised in Winter Garden, George graduated from Lakeview High School (now Lakeview Middle School) and enrolled at Marion Military Institute in Alabama. From there, he transferred to The Citadel in Charleston, South Carolina, graduating with the Class of 1938. McMillan was accepted into the U.S. Army Aviation Cadet Training Program (US- AAF) and received his wings in May 1939. He served in the Army at Moffet Field, California, and Eglin Field, Florida.

McMillan resigned his Army commission in July 1941 to serve as a civilian employed by the Chinese government to aid in their fight against Imperial Japan. Assigned to the 3rd Squadron (“Hell’s Angels”) of the 1st American Volunteer Group, he served as a Flight Leader, Operations Officer, and Vice Commander of the unit, is credited with 4.5 aerial victories, and survived a crash landing during a mission on Christmas Day of 1941. When the AVG was disbanded in July 1942, George returned to Winter Garden and received a hero’s welcome. Recommissioned as a Major in the Army Air Force, he was assigned to the 1st Proving Ground Group as a test pilot flying virtually every aircraft in their inventory.

In October 1943 he returned to China to serve with the 449th Squadron of the 51st Fighter Group, where he was promoted to Lieutenant Colonel and then Squadron Commander. He was credited with destroying four more Japanese aircraft before being shot down and killed on his 53rd mission near Pingxiang, China, on June 24, 1944. His remains were eventually re-interred with fellow Flying Tigers at Arlington National Cemetery. Lt. Col McMillan was awarded a Purple Heart, Bronze Star, Distinguished Flying Cross, and he was one of 26 Flying Tiger pilots to earn the title “ace” by the American Fighter Aces Association.

THERE IS ALWAYS GOOD NEWS IN THE GARDEN

First we vinyasa, then we savasana! Say hello to the hot new (pun-intended) yoga spot in town: Michelle Chapman’s Central Florida Power Yoga (@centralfloridapoweryoga), next to Gochi in the Mosaic Church Plaza.

If that’s not your speed, there’s also a new cycle studio causing a ruckus. Literally! Rukus Cycling Studio(@ rukuswintergarden) opens later this month in Winter Garden Village.

Post sweat-sesh we’re heading straight to Naan-Stopp in Windermere Village to refuel. Technically not in the 34787, but authentic, modern Indian food? Or… will it be Changs Lettuce Wraps on repeat at P.F. Chang’s To Go? Decisions, decisions.

Meanwhile, a big congrats to our friends at Axiom Bank (@axiombanking), celebrating their fourth anniversary.

Oh! And we’re thrilled to hear that Toastique Toast & Juicebar (@toastique) is coming to Hamlin later this year.

Back over in Historic Winter Garden, a big congratulations to Georgia at Rosallie’s (@rosallielefrenchcafe) on her promotion to General Manager. Ruby wants to know if that comes with extra snacks?

Jodo Sushi (@jodosushi) lovers will be thrilled to know that they extended their Plant Street Market lease until July.

Gatorlillys (@gatorlillys) is coming to the former Mrs. Bees location on Plant Street mid-summer. Sad to see The Bulk Pantry close its brick and mortar, but don’t worry—you can find April Noble’s gluten-free, keto, low-carb, vegan treats at Main House Market and The Modern Host.

And last, but not least, a big welcome to Wheel Works E Bikes (@wgwheelworks), who are joining us at 855 Plant Street. Looking forward to that coffee bar, guys (wink, wink).

CHARITABLE SPOTLIGHT: The Lift Network

Before he had even turned 2, Jim Hukill was diagnosed with a rare form of muscular dystrophy. Decades later, Jim doesn’t let his diagnosis, or anything else, hold him back—and he wants the same for others. Working sideby-side with his wife, Rhonette, the Hukills have researched the resources available, finding alarming numbers within the disability community; 80% of families that encounter disability issues break up, and disability impacts 20% of the American population. This shocking discovery led them to launch Eleos—The Care Network, Inc., a ministry of hope, in November 1998.

In November 2006, Eleos launched Lift Disability Network. This program expansion and organizational restructure was designed by Eleos to Elevate Life in the Disability Family. Lift Disability Network aids the disability family with a suite of programs that include camping, monthly events, and family services, with the vision to inspire individuals and families living with disabilities to discover a new vision for their future. They also partner with the Rotary Club of Winter Garden, who saw a community need to provide medical equipment to families who have short-term needs for a wheelchair, knee-scooter, cane, shower chair, or crutches. With those primary items in mind, the Medical Equipment Bank was birthed.

Get Involved! liftdisability.net