01.14.16 Windermere Observer by Orange Observer

WINDERMERE

Observer Serving Southwest Orange County

YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.

VOLUME 1, NO. 16

FREE

Relief in sight REAL ESTATE

•

Justin Tucker leads Dr. Phillips squad. See page 15A THURSDAY, JANUARY 14, 2016

District officials unveiled four rezoning maps for West Orange High and its relief school. Page 3A.

Answering the call

Optimize your profits by setting the stage for a successful sale. SEE PAGE 1B

YOUR TOWN Scholars speak at Garden Club Windermere Garden Club welcomed its two scholarship recipients and their professor, Charles Guy to its Jan. 7 meeting. Raymond Odeh and Allison Bechtloff are seniors at the University of Florida, and both are majoring in plant science. Bechtloff is specializing in landscape and nursery horticulture and studying native plant production. Odeh has an emphasis in plant and people interaction; participating in a study of the psychological benefits of gardening.

Winter Garden to honor MLK The eighth annual Unity Celebration, sponsored by the city of Winter Garden and Orange County Parks and Recreation, is Saturday, Jan. 16, at the West Orange Recreation Center, 309 S. West Crown Point Road, Winter Garden. The community march is at 12:30 p.m., and the event is from 1 to 4 p.m. The march will travel from Third and East Bay streets to the rec center. To participate, contact the city at (407) 656-4111. The entry fee is a monetary or canned-good donation to the Kid’s Café program.

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

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

Postal Customer

Courtesy photo

Above: U.S. Army Col. James Wilhite and his team inspired the documentary. Right: “We Answered the Call” is Scott Holmgren’s first documentary.

In the middle of a life-changing season of his life, Scott Holmgren found a story worth telling through film. SEE STORY ON 4A

Jennifer Nesslar

A crosswalk for 10th Avenue After years of noting a need for a 10th Avenue crosswalk, Windermere Councilwoman Molly Rose finally got her wish at the Jan. 12 council meeting. ZAK KERR STAFF WRITER WINDERMERE

Fellow council members and Mayor Gary Bruhn congratulated Councilwoman Molly Rose for realizing a small yet significant goal on an issue she has championed for almost as long as she has been part of the Windermere Town Council. A crosswalk at 10th Avenue and Main Street.

The council voted 5-0 in favor of a crosswalk for that location instead of at Eighth Avenue and Main Street during its Jan. 12 meeting, on the basis of Rose’s argument as a resident who lives in that vicinity. “I live between Ninth and 10th (avenues),” Rose said. “(A crosswalk) at Eighth (Avenue) would be a waste of our money. The only thing that crosses at Eighth are

ARTS & CULTURE

the carts that aren’t allowed to, so I would really prefer to see it down to 10th, so that there’s something halfway between here and Chase (Road).” A maximum allotment of $8,410.05 will go toward this project, but Town Manager Robert Smith said he expected the price to be thousands of dollars less. FEMA REIMBURSEMENT

Hundreds of thousands of dollars could be what Windermere must ultimately pay to reimburse the Federal Emergency ManageSEE CROSSWALK PAGE 4A

Sounds Like Chicken seeks new singers.

PAGE 11A

WINDERMERE OBSERVER

THURSDAY, JAN. 14

YOU R CALENDAR

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 14, 2016

WARM SEASON VEGETABLE GARDENING 6 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 14, at the Jessie Brock Community Center, 310 N. Dillard St., Winter Garden. Learn the “warm season” vegetable gardening, including soil preparation, adjusting soil pH, fertilizing, irrigation, pests and diseases. Gardens can be grown yearround in Florida, but spring is the preferred season by most homeowners. Cost is $5 per household. Pre-register at gardenflorida.eventbrite.com. For information, call the UF/IFAS Orange County Extension Education Center at (407) 254-9200.

FRIDAY, JAN. 15

CHILD SAFETY SEAT CHECKPOINT 2 to 4 p.m. Friday, Jan. 15, at Fire Station 22, 13521 Foxcrest Blvd., Winter Garden. The Winter Garden Fire Rescue, Winter Garden Police Department and Safe Kids Worldwide are sponsoring this free event. On-site certified technicians will educate caregivers about proper car seat installation. Parents and caregivers can have their seats checked to make sure they meet current safety standards and are installed correctly, and they can find out what type of safety seats are required for different ages and sizes of children. No appointment is needed. For more information, contact Trena Waters at (407) 877-5175 or twaters@cwgdn.com. FROZEN SING-ALONG 11 a.m. Friday, Jan. 15, at the Southwest Library, 7255 Della Drive, Orlando. Warm up your voices and experience Frozen, the Sing-Along Edition, for the first time in forever. Children ages 6 to 12. For details, call (407) 835-7323. GROOVE AT THE GROVE 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, Jan. 15, at the Grove shopping plaza, 47504757 The Grove Drive. Live music by the Z Street Band and interactive science experiments with Mad Science. Mad Science will be there from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. with interactive discovery

stations such as Amazing Air, Cotton Candy and Slime. Take blankets and chairs to the outdoor piazza and enjoy food and treats from area restaurants. For information visit thegroveorlando.com. WILD PENGUIN TAILS 11 a.m. Friday, Jan. 15, at the Windermere Library, 530 Main St. Curious kids can go wild with stories and arts and crafts about penguins. Ages 3-5. Call (407) 835-7323 for details.

SATURDAY, JAN. 16

CRUZ-IN CAR SHOW 4 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 16, along Plant Street in downtown Winter Garden. See dozens of classic cars and trucks and enjoy dinner and music at this quarterly event. For details, call (407) 656-4111. PLANT SALE 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 16, on Brick Main in front of Windermere Town Hall, 520 Main St. Members of the Windermere Garden Club have cultivated plants from their gardens and will sell them at the Arbor Day Treebute Festival. Available will be unique and unusual plants, garden accessories and member advice. All items will be marked “for donations.” For more information, call (386) 986-0704.

TUESDAY, JAN. 19

MEET THE ARTIST: DAWN WICKLOW 7 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 19, at Southwest Library, 7255 Della Drive, Orlando. Her exhibit, It’s a Beautiful World, can be seen throughout the library and will be on display March. (407) 835-7323.

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 20

CAREER FAIR 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 20, at Tanner Hall, 29 W. Garden Ave., Winter Garden. Presented by the Promise Community Services of Florida, the event will include more than 100 representatives from the retail, hospitality, construction, banking and building maintenance industries. Participants should take their resume and dress appropriately for possible interviews. For information, contact erma08@cfl.rr.com or (407) 731-9566.

MEASURE IT! 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 20, at the Southwest Library, 7255 Della Drive, Orlando. Preschoolers will learn how to find the answers to questions such as “how many?” and “how long?” through stories and activities measuring common household items. Ages 3 to 5. Call (407) 835-7323 for details. READING WORKSHOP Noon Wednesdays, Jan. 20 through Feb. 17, at the Southwest Library, 7255 Della Drive, Orlando. Improve your English vocabulary, pronunciation and comprehension. (407) 8357323.

TOP PERFORMER

on Key Quality Measures

Second Consecutive Year! The Joint Commission Top Performer on Key Quality measures® 2014 • Heart Attack • Heart Failure

• Pneumonia • Surgical Care

• VTE • Stroke

Chosen for Excellence. Committed to Care. HealthCentral.org

Connect with Us:

190962

WINDERMERE OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 14, 2016

District unveils options for relief high school zoning

small pocket of homes near the center of the current area should attend. Public Schools Director of StuOption 2 would divide West dent Enrollment Carol McGowin Orange High from its relief hosted what she referred to as school via a zigzag moving west Step 6 in a 12-step process for from Lake Rhea to McKinnon OCPS rezoning – a community Road but north of Lake Roberts meeting Jan. 11 at the Ronald Court, after which the boundary Blocker Educational Leadership would follow McKinnon Road Center in Orlando. to Lake Butler Boulevard. The A throng of parents might divider goes west on that road have felt puzzled at being seem- until County Road 535, which it ingly only halfway to finalized moves north along until it folrezoning, but the Orange County lows Stoneybrook West Parkway School Board public hearing and to its end at Avalon Road. West vote on rezoning West Orange of that intersection, virtually all High and its relief school — houses south of Lake Avalon’s March 8 at RBELC — is Step 10. northern shore would be zoned In this community meeting, for the relief school. McGowin and staff reviewed Option 1 differs from Option 2 various figures pertaining to only in excluding land bounded four options of maps for West by S.R. 429, Tilden Road and Orange County high schools. C.R. 535, about 86 current West The final two options did not Orange students. please OCPS personnel, she said. Most local parents at the meet“We said, ‘Ouch,’ to this one,” ing, such as a few from BridgeMcGowin said of Option 3, which water Middle School, indicated involves a relatively simple divi- a preference for their children to sion running west from Seventh remain zoned for West Orange Avenue in Gotha almost to State High. McGowin said BridgewaRoad 429 at Windermere Road. ter Middle School students likely The border goes southwest along would stay together — probS.R. 429 all the way to the end ably for the relief school — but of the boundary straight west some elementary and middle along McKinney Road, with the schools could be split between exception of the area north of West Orange High and the relief Tilden Road and west of County school. Road 535. Although a slim possibility Option 4 strays from Option of affecting Ocoee High’s zone OCOEE HS High’s ter3 only in making current West remains, Olympia Orange High students east of ritory will not change in this S.R. 429 and north of Rober-lant rezoning. Street P son Road pupils at Ocoee High The next scheduled meeting School. is the School Board Rule DevelStory Road “This is about the ugliest opment Workshop, scheduled State Road 438 rezoning option I’ve ever seen,” for 4:30 p.m. Jan. 28, at 445 W. Colonial McGowin said of Option 4. Drive Amelia St., Orlando. Old Winter Gar den Thus, it seems the rezoning Tomyn Boule of West Orange High and its Contact Zak Kerr at vard relief school will hinge on which zkerr@orangeobserver.com. H school the School Board thinks a West Orange

ZAK KERR

STAFF WRITER ORANGE COUNTY Orange County

Courtesy

The renderings of the proposed building at the southwest corner of the Isleworth/Four Corners area on ConroyWindermere Road and Apopka-Vineland Road include a restaurant, stores and a drive-through coffee shop.

Tavistock looks to add retail space in Isleworth area

Bluford Avenue

ail

s Tr

Stre

n Mai

Ficquette Road

Maguire Road

42 9

Stre

Windermere Road

rove

42 9

n Mai

St at e

Avenue Bluford Magu ire Road

Daniels Road

º ¹

Windermere Road

Daniels Road

º ¹

ail

s Tr

Ficquette Road

rove

ONLINE

For complete maps of all four options, visit OrangeObserver.com

Winter Garden Vineland Road

lin G

Contact Danielle Hendrix at dhendrix@orangeobserver.com.

Ham

Dick Radkewich, Keene’s Pointe resident

lin G

“… the parking at The Grove is terrible now. You’re fighting for parking spaces. Now you’re going to put this big building and drive more cars through there? It doesn’t make sense to make an exception.”

Road daily — increasing the wear and tear on a road maintained by the town. However, Bruhn said, because The Grove project isn’t located within the town’s limits, 438 ad o Windermere does not enjoy Rany tate of the tax benefits of theSproject. Residents agreed and said existing businesses have made it difficult to get in and out of the town. “I’m retired so I don’t have work to be late to, but you all will be making me late to my racquetball,” Dick Radkewich, a former OCOEE HS Chrysler executive who has lived in Keene’s Pointe for 17 years, Marsh Road treet joked with Orange County staff at Plant S OLYMP the meeting. Radkewich, who lobbied on Story Road ue Tilden Road ven behalf of Chrysler, is now an advo- 8 State Road 438 kA r 3 a 4 P cate in the community and sees adit Lake Butler Boulevard Colonial Drive Ro e Old Winter Gar t as his civic duty to attend such a den St Tomyn meetings and keep the county in Boule vard check. “There were a lot of agendas H West Orange there,” he said of the meeting. “Also, the parking at The Grove P ³ ² is terrible now. You’re fighting 27-H-W-4 for parking spaces. Now you’re going to put this big building and drive more cars through there? It oad WEST ORANGE HS doesn’t make sense to make an Marsh R Chase Road exception.” OLYMP Tavistock spokeswoman Jessi e Blakley said the company has u Tilden Road ven kA r heard the residents’ concerns a P Lake Butler Boulevard and is currently in the process of reviewing design options. New ideas will be presented at the next Re community meeting. am sR “Our current plan for the site is oa d a d consistent with the prior approved Ro l e id Courtesy P plan,” Blakley said. “We are com³ ² Se 27-H-W-4 The first option (top) and second option (bottom) differ only regarding mitted to working with the counthose residing within State Road 429, Tilden Road and County Road 535. ty to resolve any pending issues. In Option 1, they would attend West Orange; in Option 2, they would attend Tavistock remains committed to WEST ORANGE HS the relief school. developing a high quality shopChase Road ping center that attracts iconic brands to the community.” Ham

A request for more retail space and a drivethrough coffee shop in The Grove ignited a debate on traffic, architecture and responsible growth at a Jan. 6 community meeting. At the meeting, held at Olympia High, officials from Tavistock Development Company presented a request for increasing commercial square footage in the southwest quadrant of Isleworth and Four Corners, near the intersection of Conroy-Windermere and Apopka-Vineland roads. The staff planned to request a waiver to add a second coffee shop with a drivethrough in the same quadrant. “We are very happy with the success we’ve seen at the two new buildings of The Grove and how that’s progressed,” said Heather Isaacs, Tavistock planning and entitlement manager. “there’s still a pretty good market for additional retail opportunities, and we’ve had a lot of interest from a number of users, from restaurants to another drive-through coffee shop.” The proposed two-story building is planned with a 6,000-square-foot restaurant, a lobby, three retail venues and a drive-through coffee shop on the ground floor, a total of 15,000 square feet of retail space. The second floor would consist of 16,500 square feet of office space, Isaacs said. But, Tavistock’s plans for development currently are stalled by the Four Corners CVC area code, which states land designated for commercial is limited to the permitted uses allowed in the retail commercial district. Restaurants with drive-throughs are not permitted, according to the code. Additionally, code states commercial square footage cannot exceed 300,000 square feet. Orange County Planning Administrator John Smogor said that should the conversion occur, the square footage would exceed the current maximum by about 13,000 square feet and therefore violate the current Four Corners CVC code. Because of this, Tavistock has a couple of options. It could request a change determination

to the zoning, in which it would have to process a code amendment to increase the total allowed square footage to 313,000 square feet. Another option is scaling back on what it is requesting and moving some of the square footage. Smogor told residents at the meeting that there is about 10,000 square feet on the northwest corner that is currently approved for development but not yet built. One major issue related to the overall square footage deals with the current 45,000-square-foot LA Fitness health club. Tavistock and the county are debating whether the health club should be counted as commercial space. “Our position is and has always been that it is separate, because on the land-use plan approved by (the Orange County Commission), it is shown as separate,” Isaacs said. “It is shown as a completely separate line item. The traffic studies that we’ve done and that the county has approved have it as a separate line item, as well.” Residents’ concerns were the proposed architectural design, adequate parking spaces, the responsibility of maintenance for Conroy-Windermere Road, neighborhood landscaping and general traffic flow in the area. “This is cold; this is lifeless; this does not go with this area,” Cypress Landing resident Jeffrey Yorinks told Isaacs and Belflower at the meeting. Windermere Mayor Gary Bruhn said more than 14,000 people come down Conroy-Windermere

STAFF WRITER SOUTHWEST ORANGE

Four Corners CVC has limitations on the total allowed commercial square footage in the area. 300,000 — Current maximum square feet 13,000 — Current proposal’s excess square feet 15,000 — Total proposed retail square footage 16,500 — Total proposed office square footage 10,000 —Square footage available on northwest corner

St at e

DANIELLE HENDRIX

BY THE NUMBERS

Avalon Road

The development company’s current proposal for the area exceeds the maximum commercial square footage allowed by Four Corners CVC code.

WINDERMERE OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 14, 2016

Veteran inspires documentary

WINDERMERE

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.”

JENNIFER NESSLAR STAFF WRITER WINDERMERE Although he studied

filmmaking in college, Windermere resident Scott Holmgren had never made a full-blown documentary. Instead, he found himself in the corporate world where he currently works as a marketing director in the hotel industry. It’s not that he lost a passion for the art of film, but rather that he hadn’t found the story he wanted to tell. “I don’t know if I would ever make a film for (the sake of) making it,” he said. “It’d have to have that appeal. It’d have to be something I want to see for myself.” About five years ago, he found that inspiration in U.S. Army Col. James (Jim) Wilhite. The result is the documentary “We Answered the Call.”

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 Danielle Hendrix, dhendrix@OrangeObserver.com Zak Kerr, zkerr@OrangeObserver.com Jennifer Nesslar, Courtesy photo

MEETING HIS MUSE

Holmgren’s son graduated from West Orange High School in 2010 and was accepted into the United States Military Academy at West Point. It was a monumental time for the Holmgrens, who don’t have a military background. Within a few days of the acceptance, the family received an invitation to a West Point Parents Club of Central Florida luncheon. At that luncheon, Wilhite told his story — he had been a member of the Army Reserve for more than 35 years and a college professor for more than 20 when he was called to active duty in 2004. His mission was lofty: Build a military school for Afghan students using West Point as a model. He saw the mission through, despite funding challenges and other obstacles. Holmgren was blown away. “Afterwards, I (said), “‘How come I never heard this story?’” Holmgren said. It was a breath of fresh air for Holmgren. As he sent his son to the military, he was relieved to hear a good news story in a time he felt was dominated by negative military stories. Holmgren bought Wilhite’s book, “We Answered the Call.” After he finished reading it, he called Wilhite and expressed his amazement over the story — which Wilhite said was a common reaction. Holmgren added he thought it could be a movie, which Wilhite mentioned he had

U.S. Army Col. James Wilhite, fourth from left, and Scott Holmgren, fifth from left, enjoyed promoting the film with members of the mission at the Branson Veterans Week Film Festival.

BY THE NUMBERS $25,000 — The budget for “We Answered the Call.” 12 to 14 — The number of hours of interview footage 30 — The length, in minutes, of the documentary

PRODUCTION TEAM James Wilhite, executive producer Scott Holmgren, executive producer, writer and director Adam Braun, co-producer Patrick Gines, director of photography Bryan Zhang, editor

also heard people say. But then Holmgren said something different from all the others. “Well, what do you think?” he asked. There was a pause on the line. After Holmgren and Wilhite had more discussions, Wilhite agreed to work on the film. ROLLING THE SNOWBALL

“The expression Jim often uses is rolling the snowball down the hill — you (have) to keep it rolling or it’s going to melt,” Holmgren said. “So when I told him, ‘Hey, it

would be great to make a film,’ he said, ‘Let’s roll the snowball down the hill.’” Holmgren initially wrote a fulllength screenplay adaptation, but after attending the GI Film Festival in 2012, they decided to tell the story as a documentary. Holmgren wanted the soldiers to tell the story rather than a narrator. To his delight, he realized a core group of officers involved in the mission were going to be at West Point at the same time for one month. After coordinating with the West Point public affairs office, Holmgren and Wilhite went to interview the officers there. Holmgren was fascinated with both the education and military sides of the story. For the Afghans, access to education was a huge stride. “To actually sit and talk with (the officers) was humbling,” Holmgren said. “I loved hearing them speak as real people. The take on the story that is so interesting for me was this isn’t necessarily just a military story.” The 30-minute film was complete in 2015 — the 10-year anniversary of the opening of National Military Academy of Afghanistan. It premiered globally at the Branson Veterans Week Film Festival in Branson, Missouri, where Holmgren estimates more than

400 people viewed the film. Wilhite invited team members who were part of the mission, and Holmgren was able to meet people whose names he had only read in the book. The film has been submitted to the GI Film Festival, which takes place in May.

ment Association, stemming from funds that went toward storm damages in 2004. Like other municipalities, Windermere will appeal a request for more than $483,000 in reimbursement, based on a unanimous council vote. This appeal would include a forensic audit, which Smith received council authorization for at a total not to exceed $20,000, including attorney fees and other costs. Councilman John Armstrong said he had compared the town’s payments for grinding stumps of fallen trees with those of a friend he referred to as the most reputable stump-grinder to be found, and the prices Windermere had payed were outrageous. FEMA therefore might have a case, he said. WINDSONG BURN UPDATE

Councilman Robert McKinley

IN OTHER NEWS

n By a 4-1 vote, the council approved right-of-way use agreements with Orlando Telephone Company and CenturyLink, both to install underground cables in the town — OTC for cell towers and CenturyLink for Windermere Baptist Church telephone fiber optics. Councilman Richard Gonzalez dissented. n Armstrong announced the Windermere Art Affair, a new event he said could be the best of its kind in West Orange County. It will start at 11 a.m. Feb. 20 in Town Square. n Smith said he had been talking with county and school

said he had continued correspondence with Windermere residents who had persisted in expressing

officials about improvements to the roundabout and other features near Windermere Elementary School, with the possibility of a project occurring this summer. n Since a change in recycling bins, recycling has increased twofold to threefold in Windermere, to the point recycling trucks are too small to carry the loads, leaving garbage trucks to the task, Bruhn said. n Bruhn said he had been discussing with various agency officials a westward extension of Old Winter Garden Road, beyond Maguire Road. The idea would be for it to ultimately meet Florida’s Turnpike.

dissatisfaction with Taylor Morrison’s tree burn on its Windsong at Windermere property, just north

Advertising Executives / Bill Carter / bcarter@OrangeObserver.com Kim Edwards, kedwards@OrangeObserver. com Cyndi Gustafson, advertising@OrangeObserver.com Creative Services Tony Trotti, ttrotti@OrangeObserver.com Andrés Tam, atam@OrangeObserver.com Customer Service Representatives Sarah Felt, sfelt@OrangeObserver.com Allison Brunelle, abrunelle@OrangeObserver.com

HOLMGREN’S BACKGROUND

Holmgren studied film in college, but his career took him to the corporate world. “We Answered the Call” was Holmgren’s first film, although he has used his skills throughout his career. He was the president of the West Point Parents Club of Central Florida — the organization that introduced him to Wilhite — for two years. He enjoys life in Windermere, where he has lived with his wife and four kids since 2001. His hobbies include baseball — he was on the board of Windermere Little League for a few years while his kids played — history and reading. But will he create another film? “I would imagine if something were to get my attention and I get passionate about another project, I could see it being in one of those areas,” he said.

Contact Jennifer Nesslar at jnesslar@orangeobserver.com.

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 council approves crosswalk CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1A

jnesslar@OrangeObserver.com

of the intersection of Windermere and Maguire roads. McKinley reported he had told residents there had been no violations by Taylor Morrison in his view, and Bruhn agreed. McKinley said the timing of the burn permit in terms of a day limit had not been violated, and that the ordinance dealing with air pollution had referred to personal garbage burning, not development. Jane Guida, a resident of The Willows, disagreed. Pollution is pollution regardless of its source, and this burning has caused air pollution leading to health concerns, she said. Moreover, she said the burning was not approved by the council but at the directive of Smith. Council members and Smith maintained the town’s position of compliance in this process. Contact Zak Kerr at zkerr@orangeobserver.com.

The Windermere Observer is published once weekly, on Thursdays. It provides subscription home delivery. The Windermere Observer also can be found in many commercial locations throughout West Orange County and at our office, 720 S. Dillard St., Winter Garden. If you wish to subscribe to the Windermere Observer, visit our website, OrangeObserver.com, call (407) 6562121 or visit our office, 720 S. Dillard St., Winter Garden.

TO ADVERTISE For display or digital advertising, call Cyndi Gustafson, (321) 239-3252, Kim Edwards, (407) 656-2121 or Bill Carter at (407) 656-2121. For Classifieds, call (407) 656-2121.

SEND US YOUR NEWS

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

OrangeObserver.com

WINDERMERE OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 14, 2016

It’s time to sell the doughnuts … At the opening of a Dunkin’ Donuts on Winter Garden Vineland Road, West Orange demanded many more doughnuts than the store anticipated. JENNIFER NESSLAR STAFF WRITER WINTER GARDEN

While many West Orange residents enjoyed a holiday off of work, one Dunkin’ Donuts was just getting started. Dunkin’ Donuts at 4020 Winter Garden Vineland Road opened right in the middle of the holidays — on Dec. 26. At opening, the store was busy — so busy that keeping doughnuts stocked was a challenge. “We opened up and tripled our expectations on doughnut quantities,” said John Sloan, director of operations. “Our doughnuts were 300% over projection.”

The location of the store drew in West Orange residents who live nearby. Claudia Myers lives five minutes away from the new location and works out at the gym next door with her friend Michele Coppola. They stop by to spend time with one another and enjoy doughnuts after workouts. Previously, the friends traveled to Clermont regularly to enjoy post-workout doughnuts, so they watched with anticipation as a location was built next door to their gym. “We don’t have anything really over in this direction,” said

Coppola. “Everything is farther.” Sloan, who is involved with more than 15 Dunkin’ Donuts locations, also thinks the spot is ideal for the store. “Traffic counts kind of dictates a lot of what you want to be,” he said. “Also, you want to look and see how many other people are selling coffee in your market. I don’t think there’s a great deal of coffee in this market. I think the traffic

counts outside are very heavy.” The mix of opening during the holidays and the popularity of the location provided an extra challenge for the location. Staffing was the biggest concern for the location. “A lot of people during the holidays aren’t thinking about going out and trying to find a job,” Sloan said. The location needs about 35 employees. When it opened, there were about four employees, but it was able to borrow help from other stores Sloan said. The location still needs to hire more employees. “HAVE A DUNKERIFIC DAY”

“Hey sir, how was everything today?” Sloan asks a customer. His friendliness with customers is the model he wants to set for the rest of the store. As more places that sell coffee come to the area, Sloan believes it’s the customer service and the kindness of the employees of the store that will set Dunkin’ Donuts apart. “You (have) to give people a

“We opened up and tripled our expectations on doughnut quantities. Our doughnuts were 300% over projection.” — John Sloan, director of operations

JOB-HUNTING? Dunkin’ Donuts, at 4020 Winter Garden Vineland Road, is hiring. No experience is necessary. “My one job requirement is you (have) to be friendly and outgoing,” Sloan said. To apply, go to the store and fill out an application.

reason to come to your place,” said Sloan, who likes to tell his customers to “have a Dunkerific day.” “I think friendly service beats everybody out. That’s just critical to me because it’s a fierce competition.” Sloan also plans for the location to give back to the community. He hopes Dunkin’ Donuts can participate in children’s events — birthday parties, church and school events and fundraisers. “It’s goodwill,” Sloan said. “I have a philosophy of friends doing business with friends.” Contact Jennifer Nesslar at jnesslar@orangeobserver.com.

Tiny path a big deal near Lake Mabel KB Homes is offering part of the property from its approved 14-house development as a path for the original owner to reach his property just beyond. ZAK KERR STAFF WRITER HORIZON WEST KB

Homes officials and the couple who sold them 7.52 gross acres to develop 14 lots are in Orange County’s review process to settle where a 20-foot-by-150-foot path should be located for the owners to access property they still own on the edge of the countyapproved development site. This led to a community meeting Orange County staff and District 1 Commissioner S. Scott Boyd hosted Jan. 7 at West Orange High, where neighbors from the Thornhill Homeowners Association in particular voiced concerns with intentions behind the proposal and possible further development. Owner Kinsey Craichy said the contract between him and KB Homes to sell the 7.52 acres abut-

ting the eastern edge of Wakeworth Street and Brightstowe Way included a condition of area being available for the Craichys to access their property near the southern end of the development. This is because the Craichy house, east of the southern tip of Lake Mabel Drive, is separated from that wooded area by a swamp in the middle,Craichy said. But Craichy and KB Homes officials did not specify until recently where that access point would be, so KB Homes personnel have offered the aforementioned path at the southern endpoint of their 7.52 acres, where their plans would have a cul-de-sac ending. Craichy said KB Homes staff had failed to insert the condition in the contract up front, so he had to just before signing. KB Homes official Dan Edwards said the best location was not determined until

after county approval, which was many months ago. Craichy, KB Homes representatives, residents and even Boyd agreed the matter is mainly between Craichy and KB Homes, but that did not stop the neighbors from asking what the use in that area would be and whether developers would try to build even more in their area. Orange County Environmental Protection Division official John Geiger said the remaining area contains no uplands, so it would not be developable without massive mitigation and development fees for disturbing such a habitat. Geiger said the only feasible legal use would be walking to observe nature. But resident Joe Berry said he had learned Walt Disney World officials had been seeking about 500 acres of swamp to fill for development near Magic Kingdom, which he said would fit the description of this area. Based on what Thornhill HOA President Vernon Bliven and neighbors referred to as not hold-

ing true to its word, they said they did not trust KB Homes to avoid developing in that vicinity, either. They all wondered whether this would increase traffic from cars driving to the access point, but Craichy reiterated it would just be for his family to go through their locked gate to observe nature. “This (development) has been nothing but a nightmare for us, because we deal with the traffic flying down our streets with kids out,” Bliven said. “And you guys haven’t done one thing that you agreed to — not one.” Boyd’s aide, Diana Garcia, said construction to simply clear an earthen path as an access easement could start in three to six months. For more information, contact Pedro Medina, case planner, at Pedro.Medina@ocfl.net or (407) 836-7904. Contact Zak Kerr at zkerr@orangeobserver.com.

“This (development) has been nothing but a nightmare for us, because we deal with the traffic flying down our streets with kids out. And you guys haven’t done one thing that you agreed to — not one.” Thornhill HOA President Vernon Bliven

FAKE PRODUCTIONS PRESENTS

CENTRAL FLORIDA FURNITURE, PROPS, SETS & STAGING

• Furniture/Decor • Props/Set Dressing • Repurposed/Upcycled • Finished/Unfinished • Shabby Chic/Rustic • Vintage/Antique • Industrial If you dont see it, we can get it!

Open Fridays & Saturdays • 9:am to 2:pm weekly • Private Shopping Appointments Available • Call Tim Fake at 321-299-2905

193237

We have recently added a store and showroom to display props and furniture for sale or rent. Great deals and large selection. Custom Scenery & Stages Available. A portion of all sales will be donated to the “Fort Barachel Foundation”, supporting the youth in our community.

130 N. West Crown Point Rd. Winter Garden FL 34761

WINDERMERE OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 14, 2016

CRI TT E R CO RNER Orange County Animal Services is located at 2769 Conroy Road in Orlando, near the Mall at Millenia. The shelter is open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mondays through Fridays and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. In January, Orange County Animal Services is reducing the pet adoption fee to $20.16 in celebration of the new year. File photo

Bear (ID# A338472), is a smart dog in search of a new home. The 6-year-old dog can sit and shake on command, and he gets along well with children and other animals. Bear’s family brought him to Orange County Animal Services because they could no longer take care of him. Bear loves treats, snacks and rolling on the ground.

Participants such as this come from around the world for Treebute’s Geezers in Treezers competition.

For more information, call (407) 836-3111 or visit ocnetpets.com.

Windermere celebrates its 16th annual Treebute and Florida Arbor Day festivities this week.

Land of the Tree

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

ZAK KERR

191175

STAFF WRITER WINDERMERE Amid the vast heri-

up to

Model Home Furniture

50-70% off

retail prices

tage of Windermere is perhaps an equally vast canopy of historic oaks and other trees, some of which might have seen all 100 years of the town’s history and more. Each year since 2001, residents have celebrated that heritage as a Tree City USA with the free Windermere Treebute Arbor Day Festival, which Windermere Tree Board chairwoman Theresa Schretzmann-Myers said has been one of few Florida events actually centered on Florida’s Arbor Day. “Arbor Day is in January for Florida — it’s not April like most of the rest of the 48 (contiguous) states — because they do best in January while they’re dormant,” she said. “They don’t have to worry about the heat shock, stress and all that stuff, so Arbor Day is always the third Friday in January.” Along with an Arbor Day Ceremony and Tree Planting at 10 a.m. Jan. 14, Windermere will sandwich Arbor Day with its Treebute from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Jan. 16, both in the Town Square. But Schretzmann-Myers is most enthusiastic about what Windermere will host from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Arbor Day. “We also do ... a training of (more than) 100 firefighters, first-responders, arborists to deal with emergencies regarding power lines, trees and people,” she said. “The event is completely underwritten by the (Tree Care Industry Association), so we’d like to get that out to all of our

407.614.1771

35 S. Dillard St. Winter Garden, FL 34787

www.treasuresfurnitureanddecor.com

Find your Treasure at Treasures!

191478

IF YOU GO WINDERMERE TREEBUTE ARBOR DAY FESTIVAL WHEN: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 16 WHERE: 512 Main St., Windermere INFORMATION: Theresa Schretzmann-Myers, chairwoman of the Windermere Tree Board, theresamyers@earthlink.net or (407) 579-4621

SO MANY ACTIVITIES This year’s Treebute will feature a plethora of activities. n Enchanted Walkabouts with John Springer for nature education. n Children’s tree climb, supervised by certified arborists using safety gear. n Geezers in Treezers, an international tree-climbing competition n IFAS Master Gardener Mobile Plant Clinic n Plant sale n “Ask the Arborist” booth n Eco Activities for Families n Food trucks n Arts and crafts n Live music

first-responders, because ... they cannot touch that person unless they have the safety training. We provide lunch and they don’t have to pay a dime.” As for the Treebute, not much changes based on the longstanding tradition of Arbor Day, Schretzmann-Myers said, a testament to the dedication of many local botanical enthusiasts. “Windermere Garden Club will be having special … heirloom plants — donations from their members — and for a donation, you can adopt a plant, so that’s new this year,” SchretzmannMyers said. “We also have some new varieties of tree, including the beautiful Florida native mahogany.” The main focus, of course, is to plant trees — Windermere residents can get one tree for free — and learn everything planters should about healthy planting from experts at the “Ask the Arborist” booth, she said. But one event she is always excited about is the Geezers in Treezers treeclimbing competition, which involves participants from every state and other countries. The Windermere Tree Board, Tree Climbing Concepts Training Team Inc., Windermere Garden Club and Duke Energy Florida sponsor the festival, with proceeds supporting Windermere’s Urban Forestry program. Contact Zak Kerr at zkerr@orangeobserver.com.

WINDERMERE OBSERVER

THURSDAY, JANUARY 14, 2016

2015 Edison Award Winner â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Best Hearing Aid Technology

Life sounds brilliant.

The most awarded Hearing aid ever

SIEMENS binax

The Worlds First Technology that Outperforms Normal Hearing

Limited Time Offer

50% OFF

Special Invitation Try this Hearing Aid for 7 days Absolutely FREE

We be at Prices!

191671

OrangeObserver.com

They did it again! 8A

WINDERMERE OBSERVER

THURSDAY, JANUARY 14, 2016

OrangeObserver.com

They did it again!

50% OFF Limited Time Offer

: Outperforming normal hearing*. : Outperforming normal hearing*.

: Outperforming normal hearing*. This is truly a world first! Hearing technology clinically to outperform normal hearing*. This is proven truly a world first! Hearing technology Thisclinically is truly proven a world Hearing technology tofirst! outperform normal hearing*. clinically proven to outperform normal hearing*. ne Your Smartpho becomes your remote

: Outperforming normal hearing*.

This is truly a world ﬁrst! Hearing technology clinically proven to outperform normal hearing*.

SPECIAL EVENT: JANUARY 11TH -

leble ba a e g r e a g h ecechar TH RR 15

able Try this Hearing Aid FREE e g r a h c Try this Hearing Aid FREE Re Studies conducted at university of Northern Colorado (2014) and Oldenburg Horzentrum (2013) showed that Speech reception Thresholds (SRT) in cocktail-party situations

improvedat upuniversity to 2.9 dB for wearers with mild to moderate hearing loss using binax with (2013) Narrowshowed Directionality, compared to peopleThresholds with normal (SRT) hearing. corresponds to Studies conducted of Northern Colorado (2014) and Oldenburg Horzentrum that Speech reception in This cocktail-party situations over 25% improvement in speech understanding improved up* to 2.9 dB for wearers with mild to moderate hearing loss using binax with Narrow Directionality, compared to people with normal hearing. This corresponds to over 25% improvement in speech understanding *

Try this Hearing Aid FREE

FT-0000528203

Studies conducted at university of Northern Colorado (2014) and Oldenburg Horzentrum (2013) showed that Speech reception Thresholds (SRT) in cocktail-party situations

191661 191673

FT-0000528203

790

WINDERMERE OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 14, 2016

Patented two MicroPho ne SySteM Clinically proven to outperform normal hearing in noisy environments. E ABL L I VA L LY A EDICA E V I M LUS RIDA ENTER C X E C LO AT F ARING HE

Remote Programming Program & adjust your hearing aids at home, on vacation, or anywhere you have access to a computer.

NO MORE

time consuming & costly visits to your hearing aid clinic.

WIRELESS SOLUTIONS CONNECT TO EVERYTHING WIRELESSLY

You can enjoy watching television, listening to music or using your cell phone – all completely wirelessly.

395

990

495

l rgeab a h c e R $

1190

595

1190

LIMITED TIME SPECIAL

395

595

PPOINTMENTS ARE LIMITED Virtually Invisible Call Today for Your 30 Day Trial Ytango - OTE with microphone and receiver in the canal - where they should be

Qleaf Pro World’s smallest instant fit CIC

Exclusively Available at Factory Authorized Dealer

Our Professional staff of Doctors of Audiology, Board Certified Hearing Aid Specialists and Audioprosthologists

Appointments Are Limited www.floridamedicalhearing.com

EUSTIS HEARING CENTER 2904 David Walker Dr Eustis, FL, 32726 352-308-8318

WINTER PARK / ORLANDO 501 North Orlando Ave. Suite 325 Winter Park , FL, 32789 407-960-4770

THE VILLAGES HEARING CENTER 8732 SE 165th Mulberry Lane The Villages, FL 32162 352-205-7804

KISSIMMEE (Under the Historic Arch) 1310 North Main Street Kissimmee, FL 34744 407-978-6641

LADY LAKE HEARING CENTER 877-B N. US Hwy 441 Lady Lake, FL 32159 352-259-5855

FRUITLAND PARK HEARING CENTER 3261 Hwy 441 / 27Bldg C Suite C-3 Fruitland Park, FL 34731 352-314-0164

Our professional staff of Doctors of Aud Board Certiﬁed Hearing Aid Special 191674

WINTER GARDEN 13750 West Colonial Dr. Suite 330 Winter Garden, FL, 34787 407-745-4595

10A

A hearing device designed to be forgotten. WINDERMERE OBSERVER

THURSDAY, JANUARY 14, 2016

OrangeObserver.com

50% F OF

TIME D E T I LIM OFFER

Siemens introduces hearing aids that help you hear better in demanding environments like noisy restaurants and even in wind. ™

You’re invited to experience a world’s first New! New! Because the CONNEXX® 7 Because the ® future belongs to CONNEXX 7 future belongs to Soundability . software. Soundability . software.

Try

™

FREE for 7 days ™

™

5-DAY SPECIAL EVENT

usa.siemens.com/hearing usa.siemens.com/hearing

Siemens Hearing Instruments Siemens Hearing Monday, Jan. 11thInstruments through Friday, Jan. 15th ProductProduct Portfolio – Fall/Winter 2012/13 Portfolio – Fall/Winter 2012/13 We’ll test you for FREE and fit you with Life sounds brilliant. Life sounds brilliant.

Dr. John McElmurry

to try for 7 days absolutely FREE.

Dr. Dan Troast

Doctors of Audiology

790

395 395 495495 595595 595595

790

990

Real Ear Measurements allow the clinician to measure and record the patient’s hearing aids’ performance while they are actually being worn.

FREE

1190

It is important to have your hearing checked at least one time a year.

1190

Our Video otoscope can detect if ear wax may be the reason you are experiencing hearing difﬁculty.

FREE

APPOINTMENTS ARE LIMITED APPOINTMENTS LIMITED Call TodayARE for Your 30 Day Trial HEARING AID CHECK UP

1190

HEARING EXAM & CONSULTATION No-Obligation

VIDEO EAR SCAN Make Sure It’s Not Ear Wax.

Call Today for Your 30 Day Trial

Exclusively Available at

Factory Authorized Dealer

Appointments Are Limited www.floridamedicalhearing.com

Our Professional staff of Doctors of Audiology, Board Certified Hearing Aid Specialists and Audioprosthologists

www.hearingaidtruth.com

SUNTREE/VIERA BEACH 2601 Delaney Ave. 6300 N. Wickham Rd. Ste. 118 220 E. Eau Gallie Blvd. 407-278-5458

Board Certiﬁed Hearing Aid Specialist and Audioprosthologist

3115 Citrus Tower Blvd.

4401 NW 25th Pl. (In Gainesville Vision

800 E. Merritt Island 2504 Crill Ave. (In St. Johns Eye Care) Cswy.

191675

Our professional staff of Doctors of Audiology, Board Certiﬁed Hearing Aid Specialist Our professional staff of Doctors of Audiology, and Audioprosthologist

WINTER GARDEN WINTER PARK / ORLANDO KISSIMMEE (Under the Historic Arch) 13750 West Colonial Dr. Suite 330 501 North Orlando Ave. Suite 325 1310 North Main Street Winter Garden, FL, 34787 Winter Park , FL, 32789 Kissimmee, FL 34744 407-745-4595 407-960-4770 407-978-6641 EUSTIS HEARING CENTER THE VILLAGES HEARING CENTER LADY LAKE HEARING CENTER FRUITLAND PARK HEARING CENTER 2904 David Walker Dr 8732 SE 165th Mulberry Lane 877-B N. US Hwy 441 3261 Hwy 441 / 27Bldg C Suite C-3 Eustis, FL, 32726 The Villages, FL 32162 Lady Lake, FL 32159 Fruitland Park, FL 34731 352-308-8318 352-205-7804 352-259-5855 352-314-0164 MELBOURNE PALATKA INDIAN HARBOUR ORLANDO CLERMONT GAINESVILLE MERRITT ISLAND

THURSDAY, JANUARY 14, 2016

ARTS + CULTURE QUICK HITS THURSDAY, JAN. 14

SEWING 101: SEWING BASICS Learn a new skill from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 14, at Joann’s Fabric and Crafts, 3379 Daniels Road, Winter Garden. This class will teach you to sew alongside other crafters. Cost is $35. (407) 877-1050.

FRIDAY, JAN. 15

BETWEEN THE BRUSHES Create a 10-inch-by-20-inch special wrapped canvas of Apples in a Row from 7 to 10 p.m. Friday, Jan. 15 at The Art Room, 709 Main St., Windermere. Cost is $35; materials are included. Bring your favorite beverage and snack, and enjoy the night out with friends or a date. (407) 909-1869.

SATURDAY, JAN. 16

Members of Sounds Like Chicken A Cappella, as well as rehearsal accompanist Annalisa Brawdy, are looking for new members.

WHAT’S IN A NAME? How did the group come up with its curious name? “I wish there was some brilliant story I could tell you,” McClellan said. After the group had been together for about a year, it experienced some growth and the members wanted to find a name that would fit the group. They spent weeks trying to come up with a name, without much success. One night, the group was gathered together and was chatting about various topics, when they began to discuss the taste of alligator. “Tastes like chicken,” someone said. The others got excited, thinking that could be the new name of the group. “No,” someone responded. “Sounds like chicken.” The group decided the name fit well. The members of the group make up various ages and nationalities, but when they come together to sing, they all sound the same — just like everything tastes like chicken.

For the BIRDS

SURFACE-FINISHING WORKSHOP Learn how to create and design clay tiles at a workshop from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturdays, Jan. 16 and 23, at SoBo Gallery, 127 S. Boyd St., Winter Garden. Artist Katherine Mathisen will lead the class and provide materials. $225 for members, $250 for non-members; enrollment limited to 10 students. (407) 347-7996.

Sounds Like Chicken, a men’s a cappella group with a creative name, is celebrating its eighth year in Winter Garden. JENNIFER NESSLAR STAFF WRITER WINTER GARDEN

SANDY SHUGART IN CONCERT Join Sandy Shugart, the president of Valencia College, for a night of acoustic music at 8 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 16, at Garden Theatre, 160 W. Plant St., Winter Garden. Tickets are $25; $15 with a Valencia College ID. (407) 877-4736.

fter a long work week, there are many ways to spend a Friday night. For a few West

Orange men, the best place to spend the evening is in the choir room at First United Methodist Church of Winter Garden. It’s the weekly practice of Sounds Like Chicken A Cappella, an all-male group that has been part of the Winter Garden community for the past eight years.

SEE PAGE 13A

Photos by Jennifer Nesslar

Chad McClellan sings at a Sounds Like Chicken practice.

NEXT PERFORMANCES n 4 p.m. Feb. 27 at First Baptist Church of Winter Garden, 125 E Plant St., Winter Garden. A unity concert in conjunction with the Garden Community Choir. Benefits Matthew’s Hope. n 4 p.m. May 21 at First United Methodist Church of Orlando, 142 E Jackson St., Orlando. In conjunction with the Garden Community Choir.

RAVE OF THE WEEK Natalie Nolen Kauffman on Europa Designs: This florist is fabulous! Every time I go in for a client or friend, I am greeted by Stephen Bates who does a fabulous job. Keep this guy in mind for your centerpieces, gifts, Valentine’s Day, prom, birthdays, weddings, memorials … you name it. He can do it! Thanks, Europa Designs! We have partnered with the Winter Garden Rants, Raves and Reviews Facebook group to spotlight a different “rave” each week.

12A

WINDERMERE OBSERVER

R sF

s Cla

TYPES OF CLASSES OFFERED:

• Power • Vinyasa • Yin • Kundalini

• Chair/Senior • Stretch • Couples • Chi

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 14, 2016

• Children/Parent • Teen • Yoga/Pilates • Core Barre Pilates

Stu

dio

• Meditation • Stress Relief • Tai Chi • Stroller Yoga

407-448-0244 Ann McDonough, Owner

193995

All levels welcome. Ask us about Concierge services and custom classes!

www.tranquilitiwellnesscenter.com /tranquilitiwellnesscenterandSpa

503 Main Street • Windermere, Fl 34786

Lauryn Bosse, of Winter Springs, performed “Somewhere Over the Rainbow.”

Bring your car back to life!

Leading ladies shine at 2016 DYW state program

Collision repair with custom care

191323

before

after

902 Carter Rd #200 Winter Garden, FL 34787 407-654-3768 Contact@WesPullin.com

www.WesPullin.com

Hormone Replacement Therapy: It’s not just about SEX! Did you know that many diseases of aging are directly related to the decline in hormone levels? Hormone replacement to levels that are common in young people may lower the risks of Cardiovascular Disease - Alzheimer’s disease (the most dreaded disease of aging) - Osteoporosis - Diabetes and high cholesterol. Oh…and restored hormone levels do improve sexual function and relationships. 193427

Call for an appointment now and seize that healthy and fulfilling life that you desire!

High-school seniors from around Florida participated in the Distinguished Young Women of Florida state program on Jan. 9 at the Garden Theatre in Winter Garden. The event allowed each of the young women to showcase various talents while competing for college scholarships. At the conclusion of the evening, Madison Taylor, of Okaloosa, was named Distinguished Young Woman of Florida. Taylour Marks, of Apopka, won first honoree, and Haley Horton,

of Orlando, was named second honoree. The competition included categories such as fitness, interview and talent, and seeks to promote scholastic achievement, public speaking confidence, interview skills, physical fitness and moral character in the participants. In the week prior to the event, the participants volunteered and spent time in the community. As Distinguished Young Woman of Florida, Taylor moves on to represent Florida at the national competition.

Megan Alsene, of Winter Garden, sang “Goodbye Until Tomorrow.”

—JENNIFER NESSLAR

Our services include:

Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy • Sexual Health and Wellness Botox • Juvederm fillers • Vampire Face Lift • Vampire Breast Lift Priapus Shot-O-Shot • Nonsurgical Care of Urinary Incontinence

John C. Carrozzella, M.D., ABAARM, FAARM More than 25 years of experience

407-545-5477 • www.hormonesandwellness.com 7575 Dr. Phillips Blvd. • Suite #370 • Orlando, FL 32819

Haley Horton, of Orlando, performed “Astonishing.” Horton was awarded second honoree.

Learn about th New PSAT Scoring and how it relates to the New SAT

Kautia Matyko, of Oviedo, wowed the audience with her baton skills.

Space is limited, call the center today to book your appointment.

C2 Windermere

C2education.com

You. Your Neighbors. Your Neighborhood.

192214

5110 Dr. Phillips Blvd. Orlando, FL 32819 407-447-7770

Te’a Creamer, of Washington County, danced to “XO/Kiss Me” during this year’s Distinguished Young Women of Florida state program. Right: Victoria Fields, of Dade City, showed grace during her ballet performance.

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

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

ONLINE

For more photos of the 2016 Distinguished Young Women of Florida state program, visit OrangeObserver.com

WINDERMERE OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

“We’re a bunch of guys (who) love to sing,” said Richard Brophy, who has been with Sounds Like Chicken since its inception. They call themselves “Chickeneers.” Some members of Sounds Like Chicken also are involved in the Garden Community Choir, and the a cappella group performs many concerts with the choir, which is directed by Jeffery Redding. Although the group practices at First United Methodist Church of Winter Garden, participants do not need to be members or attend the church. The group started when a member of the community choir approached Chad McClellan about starting a barbershop quartet. McClellan liked the idea but decided it would be an ensemble open to any man who wanted to sing, and that the group wouldn’t be limited to barbershop music. When the ensemble began, there were four consistent members. Once a fifth member joined, the group was able to branch out into more varied genres of music. The selected genres range from men’s choral music to contemporary a cappella to barbershop. They will pick classical pieces and spirituals, as well as songs played on the radio. Favorites include Eric Barnum’s arrangement of “A Red, Red Rose,” Franz Biebl’s “Ave Maria” and “Prayer of the Children.” They also have enjoyed more light-hearted pieces, such as “Sweet Caroline” and “Brown-Eyed Girl.” Member Rob Aylesworth particularly enjoys DaVinci’s Notebook’s “Kingdom in the Sky,” a song that parodies traditional gospel pieces to poke fun at Walt Disney World and Magic Kingdom.

“We enjoy singing together, but we also enjoy just hanging out sometimes.” Chad McClellan

WANT TO JOIN?

The group is always looking for more members, as more members give the group a wider range of options of selections to perform. No experience is required, but you must be a male age 18 and up. To join, contact Chad McClellan at tenorthechad@ yahoo.com.

13A

CURRENT MEMBERS Rob Aylesworth Frank Bailey Curtis Brawdy Richard Brophy Michael Glen Matt Heim Chad McClellan Tim McNamara Quinn Roberts Sam Wagster Annalisa Brawdy, rehearsal accompanist

But the ensemble is more than music. They enjoy spending time with one another during rehearsals and outside of them. Sometimes, the group will head over to Brophy’s house to play cards. “We enjoy singing together, but we also enjoy just hanging out sometimes,” McClellan said. Most performances are with the Garden Community Choir, but the group sometimes visits local retirement communities, hospitals and schools. At times when the group is larger, it can do stand-alone concerts. Once the choir director at Evans High School invited Sounds Like Chicken to come sing with the Evans choir, which was in its infancy. “You could tell the audience, (which) wasn’t used to experiencing stuff like that, was very appreciative of it,” McClellan said. “It was a boisterous, loud reaction. They went crazy for it.” Sounds Like Chicken enjoys putting on a good performance. “We’ve been told we are good,” Brophy said with a laugh. “Every once in a while, we don’t disappoint,” McClellan agreed. Contact Jennifer Nesslar at jnesslar@orangeobserver.com.

A MetroWest band is sharing the proceeds from its single “Rocket Girl” with a fund set up to provide education for girls around the world. AMY QUESINBERRY RHODE COMMUNITY EDITOR METROWEST Rob Lamp

said it took him just a week to write the music and lyrics for his song, “Rocket Girl,” after reading 18-year-old education activist Malala Yousafzai’s book, “I Am Malala.” This project has become an important mission for Lamp and the other two members of Yesterday’s Future, a band from MetroWest. “I was determined to capture her courage and energy in a rock song vs a ballad,” Lamp said. “I sent ‘Rocket Girl’ to Malala’s organization, and they were excited to promote it to her fans. We are hoping thousands would donate 99 cents to download the song ‘Rocket Girl’ so we can donate all the proceeds to help girls all around the world get an education. If everyone does just a little, then together we can help many girls.” Yesterday’s Future band members are songwriter Rob Lamp, who also contributes on keyboards and drums; McKinney Griffin, vocals and guitar; and Alan Reitman, guitars, bass and vocals. The trio formed last fall, when Lamp met Reitman at a Full Sail University recording session and heard Griffin’s voice on a project Reitman was engineering at the time. Lamp was interested in working with the singer and sent the basic tracks of 10 original songs to Reitman and Griffin, who collaborated and brought them to life with a very modern pop sound, Lamp said. In the chorus McKinney Griffin sings: “Look into her eyes; you can see the fire. Her desire to fly higher and higher. She’s a rocket girl, gonna rule the world. Don’t try to hold her down.” “When I watched Malala confidently addressing the leaders of the world at the United Nations, I saw a young woman with inspiring passion and purpose,” Lamp said. Producer and guitarist Reitman agreed. “We wanted to create a rock song that shares Malala’s passion

Courtesy photos

McKinney Griffin, Rob Lamp and Alan Reitman are Yesterday’s Future.

for giving every girl a chance for an education,” he said. Yesterday’s Future is available for personal appearances to perform Rocket Girl and discuss its mission to assist Malala in raising support for girls’ education. For more information contact Rob Lamp at roblamp@gmail.com or (407) 729-5267. The band has performed locally at Yellow Dog Eats in Gotha. The song is available on iTunes and Amazon. The video can be viewed at bit.ly/Yesterdays Future. “We hope that everyone who loves Malala will download ‘Rocket Girl’ and keep it on their playlist to keep them inspired and rocking for a great cause,” Griffin said. By donating the proceeds of song purchases to the Malala Fund, Yesterday’s Future is helping in the fight to improve girls’ lives around the world. “When you see a need in the world like education, it’s good to know we can all do a little something to make a big difference,” Lamp said. Contact Amy Quesinberry Rhode at aqrhode@orangeobserver.com.

A New You in 2016! 20% OFF ANY SERVICE

HAPCO Music Foundation Presents

Mention this ad. Expires January 31, 2016.

“Orlando’s #1 Laser Center since 2003” • Botox and Filler Injections • Laser Tattoo Removal • Skin Resurfacing/Photorejuvenation • Laser Hair Removal • Cellulite Reduction • Acne Treatment • Skin Care

Friday, February 5, 2016

6 pm until 10 pm At MERCEDES BENZ OF ORLANDO

810 N Orlando Ave, Maitland, Florida 32751 Hosted By: Dayve Stewart, Events By Will, and Commissioner McMullen

TICKETS ON SALE NOW AT EVENTBRITE.COM/SAX IN THE CITY For more information please email: Eventsbywill@gmail.com or hapcomusic@gmail.com

7565 W. Sand Lake Rd. • Orlando, FL 32819 407-370-9142

MORE ON PAGE 2B

Lakefront Romanesque features in this over 4300 sq ft 5 bedroom 4 1/2 bath pool home located in the heart of Clermont on Lake Minnehaha. Call for a private tour.

RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • CALL US TODAY 407-905-6700 • PROPERTY MANAGEMENT • BUSINESS BROKERAGE

WINDERMERE OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 14, 2016

BUSINESS BRIEFS CONTINUED FROM 1B

college town in the state, according to Forbes. The presence of large tourism and entertainment companies such as Universal and Disney in the city attracts millions of visitors each year and strong economic growth. Other cities on the list include Des Moines, Iowa; Baton Rouge, Louisiana; Tulsa, Oklahoma; Riverside, California; Chandler, Arizona; Amarillo, Texas; Reno, Nevada; Tacoma, Washington; and Boise, Idaho.

Carmellas Pizza sells for $970K Crossman & Company, one of the largest retail leasing, management and investment sales firms in the Southeast, recently negotiated the $970,000 sale of the former Carmella Pizza building at 5320 S. Kirkman Road, in Southwest Orlando. Tyler Wilkins, associate at Crossman & Company, represented the seller of the 3,363-square-foot restaurant near the intersection of Kirkman and Vineland roads.

Meritage to host opening Meritage Homes will host the grand opening of its Twinwaters community from noon to 3 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 16 at 16554 Raven Rock Place, Winter Garden. The new single-family home community features 140 home sites off Hartwood Marsh Road on Johns Lake in Winter Garden. For more information about Twinwaters, visit meritagehomes. com.

First impression CONTINUED FROM 1B

When your house is for sale, staging it can pay off, according to Megan Morris, owner of MHM Professional Staging. Staging prepares a home for potential homebuyers. According to Morris, 95% of Association of Staging Professionals staged homes sell in 11 days on the market as compared to 90. This means professionally staged homes sell 88% faster than homes that aren’t staged. These homes sell for 17% more money on average than homes that aren’t professionally staged. “It’s not that expensive when you look at the whole scheme of things,” Morris said. “If you’re going to save money by not having your house on the market as long and you’re going to get a higher amount of money, it pays for itself.” Much of selling a home is about first impressions, which starts with the exterior. If a potential homebuyer drives up to your house to notice you have not kept up the exterior of your home, it can change their opinion of the home. “A lot of people come into the house through the garage every day, and they don’t even look at the front porch,” Morris said. “When you’re selling a house and someone walks up on the front porch and sees a broken tile or something up front, that’s a first impression. They might think the house isn’t well taken care of.” In the digital age, people also view your home through photos online, so your online first

Belmere | $459,000

Stunning 4/3 Aster Model on a premium lot with upgrades galore. Private back yard, gorgeous pool lanai and dramatic waterfall. Desirable gated community conveniently located near major roads, shopping and fine dining.

Lake Down | $1,595,000

Motivated seller. One story residence on 1 acre with 115’ of shoreline and spectacular sunsets. Dramatic open plan includes 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, island kitchen and full sized bar.

Amanda Black

REALTOR®, Interior Designer amandablackfl@gmail.com

Morris’ top five

impression counts. Often, Realtors and home sellers may use smart phones to take these photos, which Morris said is less effective. Homeowners should invest in high-quality photography, and their homes should be staged for the photos. “You are just a click away from being deleted,” Morris said. When selling a home, it’s important that potential buyers can envision themselves in the space. When your family photos are on the walls, it still looks like your house. “It’s better to go ahead and pack those all up and know that it’s going to your next house, and have the house look more neutral,” Morris said. “Then the people are going to notice the architecture; they’re going to notice more of the elements of the house.” Professional staging offers several options to the homeowner. Owners can get a professional evaluation of the home and then make the changes, or they can have the stager make the changes, as well. Julie Bettosini, co-founder of Stockworth Realty Group, recommends home sellers in all price ranges stage their homes. “I think the return on the investment far exceeds the investment,” she said. “It’s not a cost. It comes back to you tenfold in the purchase price, as well as in the time on market,” she said. Contact Jennifer Nesslar at jnesslar@orangeobserver.com.

Lake Whitney | $1,795,000

Fabulous Lake Whitney residence with gated front courtyard and separate guest house. 7,000 sf of luxurious living area includes game room, theater, wine cellar and office. Resort style backyard with boat house, infinity edge pool, fire pit, 5 hole putting green and more!

Lake Down | $1,799,000

Historic Art Deco residence in the Town of Windermere. Tri-level floor plan offers 5 bedrooms, 6 baths, study, exercise room and elevator. 160’ of sandy shoreline, boat dock and seawall too!

Judy Black

CURB APPEAL If you’re tight on a budget, Morris said to invest the money you do have in your lawn rather than on the inside of the home. The outside of your home is the first impression potential home buyers get when they arrive at your house. Pay attention to your mailbox — how does it look? Does your roof need pressure washing? Are there cobwebs or broken tiles on the entrance of your home? THROUGH THE FRONT DOOR What you see when you open the front door of your home matters. If the foyer and the main area are less than desirable, many potential home buyers won’t continue on to the rest of the house. If you can see several rooms with different colors right from the entryway, paint them a neutral color to make the space inviting. Pick the neutral color by following the scheme of your flooring. If you have a travertine floor, pick a light beige. If you have a gray slate, select a light gray color. Many homes could benefit from an off-white color. Ultimately, you should pick a color that is clean and uniform. BATHROOMS A dirty bathroom discourages potential home buyers. Hair on the floor and cluttered counters are things in particular to avoid. Hide your toothbrush and put away the personal things. Hire a profes-

Lake Crescent | $995,000

Sprawling 2 story home on 1 acre with 140’ of sandy shoreline. Transitional interior with 4,500 sf of open spaces, wood floors and soaring ceilings. 5 bedrooms, 4 baths, pool lanai and 2 tiered boat house.

Lake Butler | $2,150,000

Panoramic waterfront with 100’ of sandy shoreline. .88 acre corner lot in the Town of Windermere is cleared and ready to build. Seawall and brand new boathouse with double jetski lifts. Freedom from HOA dues and restrictions!

Broker Associate 407.810.1803 judyblackfla@gmail.com

sional cleaner if you don’t have the time to clean it. “When it’s dirty, it can send the signal that it needs to be remodeled, when really it only needs to be cleaned,” Morris said. MASTER BEDROOM AND OTHER BEDROOMS These are big features of the home. Be sure to put away glasses and other medicines that may be sitting out. The only thing on your nightstand should be a lamp and other accessories that aren’t personal. The bed should be made neatly with pillows organized.

Courtesy of Megan Morris

KITCHEN “The kitchen is the heart of the home,” Morris said. If your kitchen is not updated, make sure the room looks as clean as possible. The room also could benefit from changing out the counters or replacing the cabinet hardware.

Lake Butler | $1,250,000

Key West custom design with sandy waterfront and unobstructed views of Lake Butler. 3,000 sf of living space with bonus room, screened pool and 3 car garage. No HOA!

Windermere Downs | $579,900

2,500 sf of living area extends to private back yard with pool, patios and cabanas. Quality finishes throughout including wood, bamboo and travertine floors. Amenities include beach, boat ramp and dock on the Butler Chain.

THE JUDY BLACK TEAM www.judyblacklakefront.com

191466

WINDERMERE OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

New Windermere office in the Lakeside Shopping Center:Suite 100, 720Village Celebration Avenue, 720 Celebration A FL 34747 Celebration 7798 Winter Garden Vineland Road #116 Celebration Facebook.com/Century21Celebration

Offices in Celebration, Windermere & Davenport

Windermere, fl 34786

Facebook.com/Ce

Multi-Lingual Offices Facebook.com/Century21Celebration Offices in Celebration, Windermere and Davenport

Multi-Lingual Offices

Toll Free 1-877-YOUR C21

407.566.0555 UC

D RE

949 Westpark # 207 Celebration

1209 Downey Place Celebration

MLS # G4812461 3 bed, 2 bath, 1897 sq ft Fannie Mae Homepath Property

MLS # S4815137 3 bed 2.5 bath 1684 sq ft 2 car garage

Offered at: $299,900

U ED

Offered at: $415,000

Golf Course View in Keene’s Point Single Family Home in Windermere . 5 bed / 6.5 bath / 6,035 sq ft . Offered at $1,980,000

436 Fairway Point Circle Single Family Home in Orlando 4 bed / 3 bath / 3,007 sq ft Offered at $392,000

1400 Celebration Ave # 406 Celebration

2 bed 2 bath, 1345 sq ft 1 car detached garage

MLS # S4816524 5 bed 3 bath 3051 sq ft 3 car garage

MLS # S4812883 2 bed 2 bath 1211 sq ft End unit Water St condo

MLS # S4815324 3 bed 3.5 bath 3100 sq ft Townhouse with 2 car garage

Offered at: $ 579,000

Offered at: $209,000

Offered at: $409,000

1209 Downey Place Celebration

MLS # G4812461 MLS # S4815137 3 bed 2.5 bath 1684 sq ft 3 bed, 2 bath, 1897 sq ft 2 car garage Fannie Mae Homepath 764 Celebration Ave, #2202Property 206 Norfolk Pl Siena Palm Dr # 101 Offered at:754$415,000 Celebration Celebration Celebration Offered at: $299,900 MLS # S4810845 3 bed 2 bath 1943 sq ft 1 car detached garage

MLS # S4814151 3 bed 2.5 bath 2077 sq ft With 2 Car Garage

Offered at: $429,900

Offered at: $429,999

Single Family Home in Orlando 3 bed / 2 bath / 2,127 sq ftCED DU RE Offered at $344,900

Offered at: $219,900

1400 Celebration Ave # 406

267 Goldenrain Dr, #30-267 Celebration MLS # S4809113 3 bed 2.5 bath 2091 sq ft condo. 2 car garage Offered at: $275,000

316 Charleston Pl Celebration

789 Celebration Ave Celebration

11548 Chateaubriand Ave.

MLS # S4810230

Offered at: $219,900

789 Cel Cel

MLS # S4816524 5 bed 3 bath 3051 sq ft 3 car garage

MLS # 2 bed 2 b End unit W

OfferedCelebration at: $ 579,000

Offered

MLS # S4812780 2 bed 2 bath 1281 sq ft Fully furnished plus 1 car garage

MLS # S4810946 3 bed 2.5 Bath 2,522 Sq ft Over $60,000 in upgrades

Townhouse/Duplex in Offered at: $499,000 Winter Garden 4 bed /3 bath / 2,328 Sq. Ft. Offered at $215,990 206 Norfolk Pl

754 Siena Cel

Celebration 1102 Wilde Dr – Celebration

604 Mulberry Ave # 1101 Celebration

MLS # S4810845

Offered at: $219,900

908 Waterside Dr Celebration

14644 Whittridge Dr.

MLS # S4724783 MLS # sq S4726678 MLS # O5325911 3 bed 2 bath 1943 ft 2 bed 2 bath 1196 sq ft 3 bed 2 3 bath sq ft 1345 sq 2 bed ft detached bed1736 2 bath, ft 2 bath 14351sqcar garage First floor condo. 1 car garage 5th floor condo. 1 car garage 4th floor condo with balcony

1 car detached garage

1109 Ashbee Ln

764 Celebration Ave, #2202 Celebration

MLS # S4810230

U ED

Offered at: $235,000

1211 StonecutterCelebration Dr # 502 1410 Celebration Ave # 407 Celebration - Artisan Club Celebration

Offered at: $329,000

D RE

908 Waterside Dr Celebration

949 Westpark # 207 Celebration

6749 Valhalla Way

D RE

Multi-Lingu

Offices in Celebra and Da

407.566.0555

B L U E S K Y R E A LT Y G R O U P

THURSDAY, JANUARY 14, 2016

Offered at: $275,000

Offered at: $429,900

MLS # S4727247 MLS # S4814151 4 bed 3.5 bath, 3028 sq ft 3 bedLowest 2.5 bath priced 2077 SFH in sq ft Celebration with a garage With 2apartment Car Garage

MLS # 2 bed 2 b Fully fu 1 ca

Offered at: at: $429,999 $529,000 Offered

Offered

Featured Property C

U ED

931 Spring Park Loop - Celebration

307 E. Harwood Street Single Family Home in Orlando 5 bed / 5.5 bath / 3,961 sq ft Offered at $924,900

824 Bridgeford Crossing Blvd Single Family Home in Davenport 4 beds / 3 bath / 1,962 sq ft Offered at $229,900

267 Goldenrain Dr, #30-267 1200 Roycroft Avenue Celebration

Single Family MLS #Home S4809113 3 bed 2.5 bath 2091 sq ft in Celebration condo. 2 car garage 6 bed / 4.5 bath / 5,071 sq ft Offered at: $275,000 Offered at $915,000

MLS # S4817743 4 bed 3.5 bath 2817 sq ft under air Custom Garage, 38’x 26’ with separate 1211 Stonecutter3 Dr # 5029’ garage doors.

1410 Celebration Ave # 407 127 Celebration Blvd Celebration

604 Mulbe Cel

MLS # S4724783 MLS # O5325911 3 bed 3 bath 1736 sq ftCelebration 2 bed 2 bath 1435 sq ft 5th floor condo. 1 car garage 4th floor condo with balcony

MLS # 2 bed 2 b First floor con

Celebration - Artisan Club

Offered at $721,900

Single Family Home in

5 bed / 4.5 bath / 3,704 sq ft www.Century21BlueSky.com Offered at Offered at: $329,000

Offered

Offered at: $219,900

$725,000

Feat

931 Spri

4 bed 3 Custo 3 sep

11946 Waterstone Loop

8044 King Palm Circle

Single Family Home in Windermere. 4 bed / 4.5 bath / 3,442 sq ft. 3 car garage Offered at $900,000

Single Family Home in Kissimmee 5 bed / 3.5 bath / 2,255 sq ft Offered at $309,990

908 Waterside Drive

7107 Beek Street

Single Family Home in Celebration 5 bed / 3 bath / 3,051 sq ft Offered at $579,000

Single Family Home in Windermere. 4 bed / 3 bath / 2,464 sq ft Offered at $355,000

149 Longview Ave www.Century21BlueSk

9557 Wickham Way Single Family Home in Dr. Phillips 5 bed / 3.5 bath / 2,834 sq ft Offered at $485,000

Single Family Home In Celebration 5 bed / 4 bath / 3,828 Offered at $549,999

10753 Village Lake Road

www.Century21BlueSky.com

191488

Townhome in Windermere 4 bed / 3.5 bath / 1,825 sq ft. Offered at $299,000

WINDERMERE OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 14, 2016

What can you buy for $745K to $800K? WINDERMERE

BAY HILL

ADDRESS: 6527 Cartmel Lane, Windermere ASKING PRICE: $780,000 BEDROOMS: Four BATHROOMS: 4.5 SQUARE FEET: 3,844 NEIGHBORHOOD: Reserve at Lake Butler Sound SCHOOLS: Windermere Elementary, Bridgewater Middle, West Orange High

ADDRESS: 5371 Brookline Drive, Orlando ASKING PRICE: $795,000 BEDROOMS: Five BATHROOMS: 4.5 SQUARE FEET: 4,441 NEIGHBORHOOD: Bay Hill SCHOOLS: Palm Lake Elementary, Southwest Middle, Dr. Phillips High DESCRIPTION: This completely renovated estate sits on a private .75acre fenced lot. It includes five bedrooms plus a home theater on the lower level. The home also features marble and hardwood floors, upgraded kitchen, fireplace, a 55-foot lanai with granite summer kitchen, pool with waterfall. The owner also can enjoy deeded lake access to Lake Tibet. LISTING AGENT: Lily Wang, Cino International Inc.

DESCRIPTION: This Reserve at Lake Butler Sound offers many upgrades, including an oversized .69-acre corner lot, custom flooring and large deck. The home features wood flooring in master bedroom and office. The open backyard offers plenty of space to entertain. LISTING AGENT: Daniel Coombs, Florida Real Estate & Land Co.

DR. PHILLIPS

ADDRESS: 8202 Livorno Drive, Orlando ASKING PRICE: $789,000 BEDROOMS: Four BATHROOMS: Three SQUARE FEET: 3,275 NEIGHBORHOOD: Vizcaya SCHOOLS: Bay Meadows Elementary, Southwest Middle, Dr. Phillips High

HORIZON WEST ADDRESS: 14826 Speer Lake Drive, Winter Garden ASKING PRICE: $745,000 BEDROOMS: Four BATHROOMS: 3.5 SQUARE FEET: 3,510 NEIGHBORHOOD: Independence/Signature Lakes SCHOOLS: Keene’s Crossing Elementary, Bridgewater Middle, West Orange High DESCRIPTION: This semi-custom craftsman home features four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths, a bonus room and office. It is situated on a premium lakefront lot on Lake Speer and includes custom platform dock for lakefront relaxing, kayak enthusiasts and viewing Disney fireworks. The home is designed for entertaining with an open floor plan and panoramic views of the lake from the kitchen, family room, master bedroom and bonus room. LISTING AGENT: “Reenie” Frush, Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate — Southwest Orlando

DESCRIPTION: This Vizcaya home sits on one of the best corner lots in the neighborhood. This residence features an open floor plan with two-story ceilings, a spacious master suite with separate sitting area, and a spa bath with walk-in shower and a jetted tub. It also includes a second bedroom/office on the first floor and two additional bedrooms with a loft on the second floor. Community amenities include a 24-hour guard at the gate, tennis courts, fitness center, clubhouse, playground and two dog parks. LISTING AGENT: The Christensen Team, Regal R.E. Professionals LLC

West Orange Chamber of Commerce Celebrates Business

Theresa Blahut, Realtor Regal Real Estate Professionals Direct 407-590-0004 TBlahut@gmail.com

Celebrating 20 Year Anniversary for Kathleen Roat & Company

T he West Orange Chamber of Commerce (wochamber.com) celebrated Kathleen Roat & Company’s 20th anniversary of their financial services practice headquartered in Orlando. KRC

specializes in tax planning & preparation, financial consulting, and life & long term health care insurance. “I firmly believe superior customer service is the foundation of our sustainability. Our focus is not only what we do-but how we do it”, stated Mrs. Roat. That fact is validated by a KRC client portfolio, many of which have been with the firm for those 20 years. Photo courtesy of WOCC.

GORGEOUS, WATERFRONT HOME Move right into this 4 bedroom 4.2 bath home with breath-taking views from every room! This home is perfect for FAMILY, FUN and ENTERTAINING, featuring a gourmet CHEF’S KITCHEN. Priced at $1,250,000

WOCC Leadership Program Focuses on Government

T he West Orange Chamber’s Leadership West Orange Program, sponsored by Florida Hospital, completed their fourth session focused on different levels of Government. The group participated

Pictured: Stina D’Uva, Marc Lillis, Celena Orr, Bo Herrington, Andrew Heintzelman, Glenn Landry, Brenda LaBattaglia, Fred Stein, Lana Marchitelli, Hart Donovan, Irma Cuadra, Jimmy Dunn,Valerie Read, Stacy Williams, Julie Robinson, Joey Alarie, Cyndi Gustafson, Kim Hardy, Rachel Saunders and Krista Carter.

193973

191480

Nobody Cares More

Selling? Buying? Call Today!

in UCF’s Focus on Excellence Breakfast and visited with Lex Veech Manager of Community & Government Relations at the Orange County Convention Center. In addition, they met with Orange County Property Appraiser Rick Singh, Orange County Commissioners Scott Boyd and Bryan Nelson, City of Ocoee Assistant City Manager Craig Shadrix and Tanja Gerhartz, Economic Development Director of the City of Winter Garden. For more information about the WOCC Leadership West Orange, please contact Krista at kcarter@wochamber.com. Photo courtesy of WOCC.

WINDERMERE OBSERVER

THURSDAY, JANUARY 14, 2016

Tap into a better story.

The West Orange Times and Observer and the Windermere Observer websites are now the all new OrangeObserver.com 193967

OrangeObserver.com

WINDERMERE OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 14, 2016

REAL ESTATE

YOU’VE GOT TO BE KIDDING… When someone tells you buying or selling a home is easy, think again! Truth is, you’re busy working, raising families, and enjoying life. Don’t just put up a yard sign!

Let dealing with calls at night, appointments, realtors, signs, open houses, and lenders, be my responsibility as I work to sell your house or buy another. As your Professional REALTOR® I will provide a

JOE F. BERRY REALTOR®

469-939-3200

JoeFBerry1@gmail.com

FREE Comparative Market Analysis

to guide us both as we work to sell your home. Plus, as a Member of MLS your house will be seen by thousands of realtors with prospective buyers. If you are looking to buy – Wow! You will have access to “hundreds” of properties through my Multiple Listing Service affiliation. We can narrow the search to get just the right home.

191457

Why hesitate? Call me today

Chris Quarles Properties At Q Realty & Development

Keene’s Pointe home sells for $1.111 million EXECUTIVE EDITOR

home in the Keene’s Pointe community in Windermere topped all West Orange-area residential real-estate sales from Dec. 25 to 31. The home at 11832 Vinci Drive, Windermere, sold Dec. 28, for $1.111 million. Built in 2012, it has four bedrooms, four-and-onehalf baths, a pool and 4,171 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $266.36.

The home at 9003 Reyes Court, Orlando, sold Dec. 28, for $275,000. Built in 1983, it has four bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 1,886 square feet. The price per square foot is $145.81.

SERENATA

BERMUDA DUNES

The condo at 7360 Westpointe Blvd., No. 120, Orlando, sold Dec. 29, for $123,000. Built in 1994, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,466 square feet. The price per square foot is $83.90.

190881

PEMBROOKE

WOODLANDS VILLAGE

METROWEST

CARRIAGE HOMES AT STONEBRIDGE COMMONS

Don’t Take a Chance - Choose Barbara Vance!

The home at 1724 Knotting Hill Drive, Orlando, sold Dec. 29, for $265,000. Built in 1995, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,052 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $129.14. The home at 2628 Tilton Court, Orlando, sold Dec. 31, for $220,000 (REO/bank owned). Built in 1989, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,100 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $104.76.

The home at 4663 Wooded Village Cove, Orlando, sold Dec. 31, for 302,500. Built in 1994, it has four bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths, a pool and 2,341 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $129.22.

By Publix on Maguire, Windermere office.

29, for $157,000. Built in 2005, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,857 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $84.54.

The home at 7740 Pointview Circle, Orlando, sold Dec. 31, for $285,000. Built in 1988, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,051 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $138.96.

SAND LAKE POINT

Call Barbara Vance for details:

This Keene’s Pointe home, at 11832 Vinci Drive, Windermere, sold Dec. 28, for $1.111 million. The home features an outdoor fireplace with a pergola, custom pool, spa, and outdoor kitchen with a 48-foot-long covered lanai with retractable screen.

METROWEST

BAY LAKES AT GRANADA

We can prove it! Call to find out how.

DEC. 25 – DEC. 31

MICHAEL ENG

DR. PHILLIPS

Our team shows your home PERSONALLY each and every time, so that your home will sell FASTER and closer to your asking price.

RESIDENTIAL TRANSACTIONS

The condo at 6440 Axeitos Terrace, No. 104, Orlando, sold Dec.

The condo at 6171 MetroWest Blvd., No. 206, Orlando, sold Dec. 31, for $97,000. Built in 2004, it has one bedroom, one bath and 731 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $132.69. STONEBRIDGE RESERVE

The home at 3362 Robert Trent Jones Drive, No. 306, Orlando, sold Dec. 29, for $205,000. Built in 2007, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,002 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $102.40. The condo at 3362 Robert Trent Jones Drive, No. 10307, Orlando, sold Dec. 31, for $179,900 (REO/ bank owned). Built in 2007, it has three bedrooms, two baths

and 2,129 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $84.50.

WEST ORANGE

LAKE SHEEN RESERVE

The home at 9815 Pineola Drive, Orlando, sold Dec. 28, for $395,000. Built in 2004, it has four bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,661 square feet. The price per square foot is $148.44. PALM COVE ESTATES

The home at 1144 Palm Cove Drive, Orlando, sold Dec. 28, for $299,900. Built in 1992, it has four bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 1,999 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $150.03. The home at 933 Palm Cove Drive, Orlando, sold Dec. 28, for $297,500. Built in 1993, it has three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 1,849 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $160.90. PARKSIDE

The home at 8041 Chilton Drive, Orlando, sold Dec. 30, for $671,400. Built in 2015, it has six bedrooms, six baths and 5,109 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $131.42.

WINDERMERE BUTLER RIDGE

The home at 5116 Autumn Ridge Lane, Windermere, sold Dec. 30, for $386,000. Built in 1991, it has four bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths, a pool and 2,332 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $165.52.

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

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

Advertise your Services or Events on this page weekly. This page appears weekly in the Windermere Observer and online at wotimes.com.

Harvest of Hope Chemical Free Produce & Honey! Available Monday through Saturday. For availability, pricing and to place an order please visit...

www.MatthewsHopeMinistries.org/garden-order-form/

1460 Daniels Road • Winter Garden, FL 34787 • www.MatthewsHopeMinistries.org • 407.905.9500

191587

WINDERMERE OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

DAVIS SHORES

The home at 20 Oakdale St., Windermere, sold Dec. 30, for $667,500. Built in 1955, it has four bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 2,188 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $305.07. ENCLAVE AT WINDERMERE LANDING

The home at 6407 Swanson St., Windermere, sold Dec. 30, for $483,000. Built in 2015, it has four bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 3,420 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $141.23. KEENE’S POINTE

The home at 8561 Bowden Way, Windermere, sold Dec. 29, for $565,000. Built in 2002, it has five bedrooms, four baths, a pool and 3,151 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $179.31. The home at 11335 Camden Loop Way, Windermere, sold Dec. 29, for $530,000. Built in 2005, it has five bedrooms, four-and-onehalf baths and 3,502 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $151.34. LAKE BURDEN SOUTH

The home at 7437 Lake Albert Drive, Windermere, sold Dec. 30, for $650,000. Built in 2014, it has five bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 3,657 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $177.74. LAKE SAWYER SOUTH

The home at 7676 Brofield Ave., Windermere, sold Dec. 29, for $339,000. Built in 2011, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 2,610 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $129.89. OASIS COVE AT LAKESIDE VILLAGE

The town house at 8118 Enchantment Drive, No. 702, Windermere, sold Dec. 30, for $240,000. Built in 2011, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,046 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $117.30. The home at 14348 Desert Haven St., No. 101, Windermere, sold Dec. 31, for $222,000. Built in 2013, it has three bedrooms, twoand-one-half baths and 1,840 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $120.65.

WINDERMERE TRAILS

The home at 8775 Crescendo Ave., Windermere, sold Dec. 31, for $430,000. Built in 2015, it has four bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 2,911 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $147.72. The home at 9101 Reflection Pointe Drive, Windermere, sold Dec. 28, for $367,000. Built in 2015, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,987 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $122.87.

WINTER GARDEN BLACK LAKE PARK

The home at 587 First Cape Coral Drive, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 28, for $264,000 (REO/bank owned). Built in 2006, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,365 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $111.63. COVE AT HAMLIN

The home at 5336 Bowman Drive, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 30, for $792,312. Built in 2015, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths, a pool and 3,482 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $227.55. DANIELS CROSSING

The home at 334 Daniels Pointe Drive, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 31, for $105,000 (short sale). Built in 1988, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,194 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $87.94. INDEPENDENCE/ SIGNATURE LAKES

The home at 14918 Gaulberry Run, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 31, for $335,000. Built in 2007, it has four bedrooms, three-andone-half baths and 3,336 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $100.42. The town house at 14434 Whittridge Drive, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 30, for $200,000 (short sale). Built in 2005, it has three bed-

Courtesy photos

This Lake Sheen Reserve home, at 9815 Pineola Drive, Orlando, sold Dec. 28, for $395,000. The home features a saltwater pool, and the neighborhood offers access to the Butler Chain of Lakes.

rooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,184 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $91.58. The town house at 14457 Vashons Way, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 28, for $170,000. Built in 2005, it has two bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 1,221 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $139.23. JOHNS LAKE POINTE

The home at 15102 Owls Perch Court, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 30, for $333,227. Built in 2015, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,400 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $138.84. OAKLAND PARK

The home at 860 Rhett St., Winter Garden, sold Dec. 29, for $347,419. Built in 2015, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,985 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $175.02. ORCHARD HILLS

The home at 14331 White Moss Way, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 28, for $376,000. Built in 2014, it has four bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 3,218 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $116.84. OVERLOOK AT HAMLIN

The home at 7573 Green Mountain Way, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 29,

for $700,000. Built in 2014, it has four bedrooms, three-and-onehalf baths and 3,443 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $203.31. SOUTHERN PINES

The condo at 1315 Eastern Pecan Place Circle, No. 107, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 28, for $86,000. Built in 2005, it has one bedroom, one bath and 838 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $102.63. STONEYBROOK WEST

The home at 15015 Masthead Landing Circle, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 30, for $294,000. Built in 2005, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,578 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $114.04. The home at 14919 Masthead Landing Circle, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 31, for $242,000. Built in 2004, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,549 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $156.23. TOWNHOMES OF WINTER GARDEN

of living area. The price per square foot is $95.64. The condo at 15419 Georgia Oak Place, No. 11, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 28, for $115,000. Built in 2007, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,216 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $94.57. VERDE PARK

The home at 17989 Gourd Neck Loop, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 29, for $416,840. Built in 2015, it has five bedrooms, four baths and 4,161 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $100.18. The home at 15000 Ozzi St., Winter Garden, sold Dec. 30, for $385,036. Built in 2015, it has five bedrooms, three baths and 3,467 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $111.06. WATERMARK

The home at 9240 Woodcrane Drive, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 31, for $508,570. Built in 2015, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 3,760 square feet. The price per square foot is $135.26.

The town house at 347 Douglas The home at 14642 Glade Hill Way, No. 510, Winter Garden, Parkway, Winter Garden, sold sold Dec. 30, for $69,000 (REO/ Dec. 30, for $430,000. Built in bank owned). Built in 1987, it has 2015, it has five bedrooms, threetwo bedrooms, two baths and and-one-half baths and 3,717 930 square feet of living area. The feet of living area. The OWNER’S TITLEsquare INSURANCE price per square foot PROTECTS is $74.19. YOU… price per square foot is $115.68. YOUR KIDS… The home at 9353 Meadow Hunt YOUR GRANDKIDS… The home at 132 Traditions Drive, Drive, Winter Garden, sold Dec. YOUR GREAT-GRANDKIDS AND…

TRADITIONS

Winter Garden, sold Dec. 30, for 31, for $261,500. Built in 2015, it $225,000. Built in 2002, it has has four bedrooms, two-andthree bedrooms, two baths and one-half baths and 2,029 square WELL, YOU THEofIDEA. 1,591 square feet of living area. TheGETfeet living area. The price per price per square foot is $141.42. square foot is $128.88.

The home at 9459 Westover Club Circle, Windermere, sold Dec. 29, for $415,000 (short sale). Built in 2002, it has five bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 3,345 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $124.07. The home at 12757 Calderdale Ave., Windermere, sold Dec. 29, for $260,000. Built in 2012, it

THURSDAY, JANUARY 14, 2016

has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,684 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $154.39.

WESTOVER CLUB

WICKHAM PARK

TUCKER OAKS

The condo at 1553 Broken Oak Drive, No. 353, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 30, for $162,500 (REO/ bank owned). Built in 2008, it has three bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 1,699 square feet This Davis Shores home, at 20 Oakdale St., Windermere, sold Dec. 30, for $667,500. Built in 1955, the home features frontage on the Butler Chain of Lakes and a large backyard with open lanai, pool/spa, boathouse and lift.

ONLINE

WESTLAKE MANOR

The home at 314 Apopka St., Winter Garden, sold Dec. 29, for $210,000. Built in 1956, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,215 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $172.84.

Read more real estate transactions at OrangeObserver.com

Get your ALTA title insurance is one of the Getting owner’s Homebuyer Guide atdecisions you’ll make smartest and easiest alta.org/homebuyer. as a homebuyer. It’s a one-time purchase that protects your property rights as long as you or your heirs own your home.

For more information, ask an ALTA member or visit homeclosing101.org.

WE ARE THE…

This advertising is for informational purposes only. Actual coverages and your eligibility may vary by company and state. For exact terms,

conditions, exclusions, eligibility and limitations, please contact a title INVESTIGATORS, ANALYSTS AND COUNSELORS,

THE PROTECTORS OF PROPERTY RIGHTS.

insurance company authorized to do business in your location.

Shopping for a mortgage?

WE INSPECT TITLES AND

ADVOCATE FOR HOMEBUYERS.

WE SEEK A HIGH STANDARD OF ACCURACY.

WE PROVIDE

M-F 8:30 - 5:30 Sat 10:00 - 1:00 Evening by Appointment

1001306.1

WE ARE THE AUTHORITY IN REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS.

As life changes, so do your needs. Let State Farm Bank help with a mortgage that fits your life and your budget. Let us help you make the right move. Bank with a Good Neighbor®. CALL ME TODAY FOR MORE INFORMATION.

WE ASSURE THAT LAND TRANSFER IS

EXPEDITIOUS AND SECURE. OUR COMMITMENT TO EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE

STRENGTHENS OUR MISSION.

WE REDUCE RISK SO THAT

HOMEBUYERS CAN REST ASSURED.

JoAnne Quarles, C.L.C. office 407.654.8811 cell 407.758.4479 joanne@treasuretitle.com 191112

NMLS MB #110089, NMLS MLO #385629 MLO License #LO22686

PEACE OF MIND.

We have a great selection. 191447

Jo Barsh, Agent State Farm Agent 317 West Road Ocoee, FL 34761 Bus: 407-299-0301

Some products and services not available in all areas. State Farm Bank, F.S.B., Bloomington, IL

For more information about owner’s title insurance, ask Treasure Title, an ALTA member.

WINDERMERE OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 14, 2016

WEST ORANGE COUNTY IS NOW 6 TIMES BETTER WITH TAYLOR MORRISON! Discover Taylor Morrison’s six luxury communities in the West Orlando area. Each community offers a variety of home styles and price ranges to choose from. Find the exclusive neighborhood and classic lifestyle you’ve been searching for with Taylor Morrison.

CYPRESS RESERVE 2,274 - 4,290 Sq. Ft. 3 - 4 Beds • 2 - 3.5 Baths •

•

2 - 3 Car Garage From the $300s

14193 Jomatt Loop, Winter Garden, FL 34787 407-439-0011

THE COVE AT HAMLIN 1,938 - 2,444 Sq. Ft. • 2 - 3 Bedrooms • 2.5 Baths •

• •

2 Car Garage From the $260s

5717 Hamlin Groves Trail, Winter Garden, FL 34787 407-905-4651

OVERLOOK AT HAMLIN 1,716 - 5,173 Sq. Ft. 3 - 6 Bedrooms w/ Den • 2 - 6 Baths

2 - 3 Car Garages From the high $270s • Waterfront Homesites

•

7719 Minutemen Loop, Winter Garden, FL 34787 407-905-4651

HAVENCREST • 3,314 - 4,882 Sq. Ft.

• 1 - 2 Story Homes

• 3.5 - 4.5 Baths

• From the $600s

• 4 - 5 Bedrooms

• 2 - 3 Car Garage

7518 Blue Quail Lane, Orlando, FL 32835 407-628-3602

THE RESERVE AT PHILLIPS COVE COMING SOON!

Located in Dr. Phillips 407.756.5025

ESTANCIA AT WINDERMERE COMING SOON!

Located in Windermere 407.756.5025

taylormorrison.com | 407.756.5025 Offer void where prohibited or otherwise restricted by law. All information (including, but not limited to prices, availability, incentives, floorplans, site plans, features, standards and options, assessments and fees, planned amenities, programs, conceptual artists’ renderings and community development plans) is not guaranteed and remains subject to change or delay without notice. Maps and plans are not to scale and all dimensions are approximate. Please see a Taylor Morrison Sales Associate for details and visit www.taylormorrison.com for additional disclaimers. © January 2016, Taylor Morrison of Florida, Inc. All rights reserved. 191470