01.26.17 West Orange Times & Observer by Orange Observer

W E ST O RA N G E T I M E S &

Observer Celebrating 110 years in West Orange

Girls Club alumna returns to lead program. PAGE 14

YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.

FREE

VOLUME 84, NO. 4

YOUR TOWN BECOME A NATURE DOCENT

FOR HIGH SCHOOL, COLLEGE SENIORS Seniors at Dr. Phillips, Olympia and West Orange high schools; Windermere Preparatory; Bishop Moore; Lake Highland; and qualified home-school students who are enrolled in a science class are eligible for a $750 Edwin and Paula Brackney Environmental Scholarship. March 13 is the deadline to submit the application plus a reference from a science teacher, transcript, 500-word essay and an explanation of why the applicant deserves the scholarship. Completed application items should be mailed to BCCA, c/o Cogswell, Attn: Brackney Scholarship, 10553 Down Lakeview Circle, Windermere, FL 34786; or emailed to LCogswell55@gmail.com. Florida college students majoring in environmental studies or environmental engineering who have completed their junior year can apply for a $2,000 scholarship. Deadline to turn in applications is April 3, and the submission must include one reference, transcript, 500-word essay, a statement of environmental ethics and why the applicant deserves the scholarship. Submissions can be sent to BCCA College Scholarship, P.O. Box 405, Windermere, FL 34785 or emailed to info@ butlerchainconservation.org.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017

Historic hotel turns

Do you love the outdoors, enjoy meeting new people and have a few hours a week to volunteer? Oakland Nature Preserve is looking for adults interested in learning about the history, wildlife, plants and restoration efforts at ONP to volunteer at the preserve to greet visitors, help answer questions and lead an occasional tour. ONP also offers workdays every Monday and Saturday. For details, visit OaklandNaturePreserve. org/Guide or email Outreach@OaklandNaturePreserve.org. Interested individuals can register online at OaklandNaturePreserve.org. The preserve is at 747 Machete Trail in Oakland.

ENVIRONMENTAL SCHOLARSHIPS

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FORMER HOTEL MANAGER VISITS EDGEWATER

The landmark Edgewater Hotel in downtown Winter Garden has been restored to its 1927 glory and again serves as a destination bed-and-breakfast. AMY QUESINBERRY COMMUNITY EDITOR

Ninety years ago this week, the three-story Edgewater Hotel opened its doors to accommodate fishermen who were coming to Winter Garden from all over the country to throw their lines into the famous Lake Apopka and snag a bass. Room rentals were about $2. On the first floor, the Evergreen Restaurant served traditional Southern meals — 25 cents for breakfast and up to $1.50 for a special dinner. Construction actually began in 1924, and plans called for a four-story building, but the land bust of the mid-1920s brought the project to a halt after the first floor shell was completed.

In 1925, Jerry Chicone Sr. found some investors to finish the building with three stories. It was completed with six private guest rooms, 23 two-room suites and a sitting room overlooking downtown. The Edgewater Hotel opened Jan. 26, 1927, with Ralph Hartman as manager. It boasted a dining room, dessert room, barbershop, beauty parlor, telegraph office and drug store. Modern conveniences of the time included a manually operated Otis elevator, telephones in each room with a switchboard operator downstairs, individual room temperature monitoring, up-to-date plumbing and fire sprinklers.

SEE DICKERSON PAGE 10

SEE EDGEWATER PAGE 10

Ocoee commissioners welcome relocated charter school Montessori of Winter Garden Charter School is changing its name to Innovation Montessori Ocoee and moving to North Lakewood Avenue after receiving unanimous approval from Ocoee commissioners Jan. 17.

In 1948, Gordon Dickerson drove from Texas to Winter Garden to assume management duties for the Edgewater Hotel. Dickerson had served three years in the military and been promoted to staff sergeant when he was assigned to a camp that received German prisoners of war during World War II. He moved to Texas following the war. He had received a letter from his cousin that the owner of the Edgewater, Dr. Clinton H. Whitehurst, was looking for someone to manage the hotel.

ARTS & CULTURE

GABBY BAQUERO STAFF WRITER

During the Jan. 17 Ocoee commission meeting, city leaders unanimously approved the final reading for what will be a prekindergarten-to-eighth-grade charter school called Innovation Montessori Ocoee. The future home for the school, which has a capacity of 800 students and 96 SEE MONTESSORI PAGE 4

SoBo’s Annual Watercolor Exibition

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YOUR CALENDAR

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

THURSDAY, JAN. 26

BASICS OF DOG TRAINING

6:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 26, at the Winter Garden Library, 805 E. Plant St.  Todd Campbell, owner of South Orlando Dog Training, will share new reward-based training methods that will make your furry friend love to be with you and obey you. A well-trained dog is a joy to be with, and training is easier than you think. Pets are not permitted to attend. (407) 835-7323.

FRIDAY, JAN. 27

CHINA AND THE CELEBRATION OF INVENTION

3:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 27, at the Winter Garden Library, 805 E. Plant St. From Kung Fu to kites, celebrate the inventions of Ancient China. Take a trip through activities and crafts. Ages 6 to 12. (407) 835-7323.

SATURDAY, JAN. 28 KNIT IT LEVEL 4: THE RIB STITCH

10 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 28, at the Win-

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017

ter Garden Library, 805 E. Plant St. Create a ribbed bookmark in your favorite colors. Learn the rib stitch to create two-by-two ribbing and how to block a finished project. (407) 835-7323. RESEARCHING YOUR REVOLUTIONARY WAR PATRIOT

10:30 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 28, at the West Oaks Library, 1821 E. Silver Star Road, Ocoee. Have you ever wondered if a Revolutionary War patriot ancestor could be hidden in your family tree? Perhaps you are eligible to join the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR). Presented by the Orlando Chapter NSDAR. (407) 835-7323. WINDERMERE WINE & DINE

6 to 9 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 28, in and around Windermere Town Hall, 520 Main St. Thirty top restaurants will present their wines and specialty dishes at this popular event presented by Tim’s Wine Market and Napleton. Tickets

are $100 (or $65 for food and non-alcoholic drinks) and are available at windermerewineanddine.com. SHARE THE LOVE GALA

6:30 p.m. to midnight Saturday, Jan. 28, at the Orlando Science Center, 777 E. Princeton St., Orlando. The gala benefits the Montessori of Winter Garden Charter School and includes food and drink, science-themed fun and entertainment, dancing, live music and an online silent auction. Cathy Tobin, (407) 654-2045 or cathy@mwgcs.com.

SUNDAY, JAN. 29

FROM GARDEN TO TABLE: THE MIGHTY MEYER LEMON

2 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 29, at Nehrling Gardens, 2267 Hempel Ave., Gotha. Explore Nehrling Gardens, discover how to grow a Meyer lemon tree and learn tips and tricks for making a delicious lemon curd. Participants will also enjoy a cooking demonstration featuring local Meyer lemons, followed by a food tasting. Tickets are $20. (407) 445-9977 or nehrlinggardens.org.

MONDAY, JAN. 30

PUFFINS CLIMB, PENGUINS RHYME

CUISINE CORNER JUNIOR: MELTED SNOWMAN BARK

10:30 a.m. Monday, Jan. 30, at the Windermere Library, 530 Main St. Waddle up to Iceland and back down to Antarctica. Warm up with cozy stories, chill activities and cool crafts. Ages 3 to 5. (407) 835-7323.

5 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 31, at the West Oaks Branch, 1821 E. Silver Star Road, Ocoee. Learn and create a winter-inspired treat to celebrate the season and enjoy a sweet dessert. Ages 8 to 18. Registration recommended. (407) 835-7323.

TUESDAY, JAN. 31

THURSDAY, FEB. 2

4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 31, at C&W Trucking, 703 Hennis Road, Winter Garden. OneBlood will have its blood mobile there, and all donors will receive a free movie ticket and wellness checkup. Make an appointment at oneblooddonor.org and use sponsor code 11454.

5 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 2, at BHHS Florida Realty, 401 Main St., Windermere. The Sunshine Kids Foundation will be judging the chili. Cook-off entry fee is $10; suggested donation for chili sampling, wine and beer is $10. Guests who wear a football jersey get a free drink ticket. Proceeds go to Sunshine Kids. sambhhs@gmail.com or (407) 760-9826.

BLOOD DRIVE

LINE DANCING

10 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 31, at West Orange Seniors, 1701 Adair St., Ocoee. Cost is $2. (407) 5924498 or westorangeseniors. yolasite.com. VETERANS BENEFIT WORKSHOP

5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 31, at Golden Pond Communities, 402 Lakeview Road, Winter Garden. Scott Thomas, Long Term Care for Veterans, LLC, will discuss VA benefits and eligibility. Light refreshments. RSVP to Keli Helgoth at (407) 654-7217.

CHILI COOK-OFF

FRIDAY, FEB. 3

OPEN LAB: ASK A TECH

10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Friday, Feb. 3, at the Winter Garden Library, 805 E. Plant St. Are you stuck on a software-related project or simply need constructive ideas to get you started? A technology trainer will be available to assist in this open lab. For adults. (407) 835-7323.

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OCOEE - Jan. 8 2281 block of Ocoee-Apopka Road: An Uber driver picked up a particularly violent female passenger who wanted to go to McDonalds. The driver took her there but received several punches and kicks in the process from the highly intoxicated female passenger. The upset passenger also asked the male driver if she could smoke in his car, but he said no. She asked for a kiss, which the driver rejected. The passenger then began to pull the driver’s hair and struck him across the face multiple times from the backseat. She then climbed her way to the front seat and began kicking him repeatedly, cracking the screen of the driver’s phone and breaking the car key while it was inside the ignition. She also poured a bottle of liquor all over the car’s backseat. The driver eventually pulled over to get help from the police. The total estimated damage was $600. In the aftermath, the passenger told the arresting police officer she was upset because her girlfriend had broken up with her. The officer arrested the female passenger for battery and criminal mischief.

24 HOURS EMERGENCY SERVICE

Oakland automotive body shop catches fire OAKLAND Firefighters from multiple municipalities surrounded an Oakland warehouse located at 17949 W. Colonial Drive Saturday, Jan. 21, as they battled the flames that engulfed the 6,000-square-foot building. Orange County Fire Rescue, Winter Garden, Clermont and Lake County all responded because of the shop’s location. “It kind of borders on a lot of different jurisdictions, so you know there was a lot of units out there but that was because of its location,” said Orange County Fire Rescue spokeswoman Ngoc Huynh. “It was only a one-alarm response.” The Creative Auto Boutique in Oakland sold and installed auto accessories such as car stereos and wheels and offered custom auto paint jobs. Although the original 911 call came in at about 7:15 p.m., fire crews on the scene did not declare a knock down — a term used to describe the moment when the main body of a large fire is suppressed — until 9:19 p.m, Huynh added. “The only issue is that no one called it in until a few passers-by happened to see it and by the time we arrived on scene it was already 100% involved," Huynh said. Surrounding businesses were not exposed to the fire and no injuries were reported, Huynh said. The State Fire Marshal's Office is investigating.

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New Year’s Resolution:

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OCOEE A school bus carrying one child was involved in a crash Jan. 19 at Clarcona Ocoee Road and Whispering Birch Way. The crash happened when a utility type work truck rear-ended the school bus. “A vehicle struck a school bus from behind that was stopped,” said Ocoee Police Sgt. Brian Satterlee. “The bus had one child that was transported to the hospital with minor injuries. The driver of the vehicle that struck the bus was injured and airlifted to (Orlando Regional Medical Center).”

For FREE pick-up call: (407)905-0406

www.westorangehabitat.org

Phone and Internet Discounts Available to CenturyLink Customers

Contact Gabby Baquero at gbaquero@ orangeobserver.com.

The Florida Public Service Commission designated CenturyLink as an Eligible Telecommunications Carrier within its service area for universal service purposes. CenturyLink’s basic local service rates for residential voice lines are $21.22 per month and business services are $31.00$35.00 per month. Specific rates will be provided upon request.

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017

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1240 block of Winter Garden Vineland Road: A driver rear-ended another car in the middle of traffic. Both drivers exited the car to survey the damage and exchange insurance information. The driver who rear-ended the vehicle in front of his car repeatedly insisted on paying for the damage in cash and did not like the idea of exchanging insurance information. The second driver did not approve of this suggestion and insisted on getting his insurance information. The driver at fault then stated, “Well, that’s just not going to work!” He then returned to his vehicle to flee the scene, but the second driver took multiple photos of his car and face as he left and reported the incident to Winter Garden police, who found the at-fault driver and arrested him for leaving the scene of a crash with property damage.

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WINTER GARDEN - Jan. 6

OTHER NEWS

The greatest compliment you can give is a referral!

CenturyLink participates in a government benefit program (Lifeline) to make residential telephone or broadband service more affordable to eligible low-income individuals and families. Eligible customers are those that meet eligibility standards as defined by the FCC and state commissions. Residents who live on federally recognized Tribal Lands may qualify for additional Tribal benefits if they participate in certain federal eligibility programs. The Lifeline discount is available for only one telephone or broadband service per household, and can be on either wireline or wireless service. Broadband speeds must be 10 Mbps download and 1 Mbps upload or faster to qualify. Lifeline discounts include a transfer restriction (port freeze). This means that you are unable to obtain the Lifeline discount on service with another provider for a period of time. The length of time depends on the services you purchase – 60 days for voice telephone service, 12 months for qualifying broadband service. Certain exceptions to the transfer restrictions may apply. See http://www.lifelinesupport.org/ls/changemy-company.aspx for more information. A household is defined for the purposes of the Lifeline program as any individual or group of individuals who live together at the same address and share income and expenses. Lifeline service is not transferable, and only eligible consumers may enroll in the program. Consumers who willfully make false statements in order to obtain a Lifeline discount can be punished by fine or imprisonment and can be barred from the program.

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BR Dental is an In-Network provider with the following PPO Dental Insurance plans: Aetna, Cigna, Ameritas, BC/BS, Florida Combined Life, MetLife, Principal, United Concordia, Guardian, Humana, United Healthcare and Dentemax.

If you live in a CenturyLink service area, please call 1-855-954-6546 or visit centurylink.com/lifeline with questions or to request an application for the Lifeline program. *CenturyLink Internet Basics Program – Residential customers only who qualify based on meeting income level or program participation eligibility requirements, and requires remaining eligible for the entire offer period. First bill will include charges for the first full month of service billed in advance, prorated charges for service from the date of installation to bill date, and one-time charges and fees described above. Qualifying customers may keep this program for a maximum of 60 months after service activation provided customer still qualifies during that time. Listed High-Speed Internet rate of $9.95/mo. applies for first 12 months of service (after which the rate reverts to $14.95/mo. for the next 48 months of service), and requires a 12-month term agreement. Customer must either lease a modem/router from CenturyLink for an additional monthly charge or independently purchase a modem/router, and a one-time High-Speed Internet activation fee applies. A one-time professional installation charge (if selected by customer) and a one-time shipping and handling fee applies to customer’s modem/router. General – Services not available everywhere. Customers must not be currently subscribed to CenturyLink Internet service. CenturyLink may change or cancel services or substitute similar services at its sole discretion without notice. Offer, plans, and stated rates are subject to change and may vary by service area. Deposit may be required. Additional restrictions apply. Terms and Conditions – All products and services listed are governed by tariffs, terms of service, or terms and conditions posted at centurylink.com. Taxes, Fees, and Surcharges – Applicable taxes, fees, and surcharges include a carrier Universal Service charge, carrier cost recovery surcharges, state and local fees that vary by area and certain in-state surcharges. Cost recovery fees are not taxes or government-required charges for use. Taxes, fees, and surcharges apply based on standard monthly, not promotional, rates.

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WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017

NETWORK SOLUTIONS

WEST ORANGE TIMES &

Montessori gets approval Observer

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Artist rendering of new Montessori Charter School.

Community Editor / Amy Quesinberry

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teachers, will be situated on 17.6 acres of property on the west side of North Lakewood Avenue, 575 feet south of Fullers Cross Road. The 5-year-old Montessori of Winter Garden Charter School has spent the last few months raising the money required for its relocation to Ocoee. Innovation Montessori students, parents, and teachers all attended the meeting to support the school during its public hearing for the annexation, rezoning and preliminary site plan. During public comment, Sherilyn Moore, the school’s governing board president, proudly emphasized the school’s unique focus on teaching students to be compassionate and socially responsible. “It’s not just an education of the mind; it’s an education of the heart. And we try to instill in our students every single day that this matters,” Moore said. “We have a curriculum that is called Raising Courtesy. They learn that it’s their responsibility to care for each other.” The school, which has been in Winter Garden since its inception, will be built in two phases, with an estimated completion date of August for phase one and January 2018 for phase two. Phase one will see the building of a primary school for up to 126 prekindergarten and kindergarten students, while phase two will see construction of the elementary school from first through eighth grade. The school grounds will have two access points on North Lakewood Avenue, and they are working with Orange County to ensure congestion is kept to a minimum on Lakewood by creating a dedicated right-turn lane and leftturn lane. According to the preliminary site plan and chief designer, the school’s future location is heavily

wooded with many oak trees and five acres of wetlands. However, the school board aims to retain 200 of those trees, preserve the wetlands and incorporate native vegetation. The board also aims to have 50% of the 17.6 acres be left as open space and recreational areas. “When we found the land, it was quite a dream come true,” Moore said. “We’ve all been working very hard with our amazing professional team here to make sure that we not only honor the land and save every tree we can but that we make sure our impact on the community is only a positive one.” Contact Gabby Baquero at gbaquero@orangeobserver.com

amyq@OrangeObserver.com Senior Sports Editor / Steven Ryzewski, sryzewski@OrangeObserver.com Staff Writers Gabby Baquero, gbaquero@Orange Observer.com Brittany Gaines, bgaines@Orange Observer.com Danielle Hendrix, dhendrix@OrangeObserver.com Advertising Executives Michelle Gentry, mgentry@Orange Observer.com Cyndi Gustafson, advertising@Orange Observer.com Ann Marie Vibbert, avibbert@Orange Observer.com Pam Zerblas, pzerblas@OrangeObserver.com Creative Services Andrés Tam, atam@OrangeObserver.com Tony Trotti, ttrotti@OrangeObserver.com Customer Service Representatives Allison Brunelle, abrunelle@Orange Observer.com Sarah Felt, sfelt@OrangeObserver.com

IN OTHER NEWS n Commissioners approved the second reading for an ordinance pertaining to the use of a special magistrate to supplement the volunteerbased Code Enforcement Board, which oversees cases regarding code compliance matters. The special magistrate will manage all cases relating to commercial properties and the CEB will manage cases for residential properties. n Commissioners authorized the development agreement for the Legacy Lifestyle Senior Housing of Ocoee: a three-story, 120-bed assisted-living facility to be built on Roberson Road. n Ocoee commissioners also approved the Ocoee Fire Department’s request to apply for the FEMA SAFER grant, which will financially assist the department in its goal to hire 12 new firefighters.

The West Orange Times & Observer is published once weekly, on Thursdays. The West Orange Times & Observer can be found in many commercial locations throughout West Orange County and at our office. If you wish to subscribe, visit our website, OrangeObserver.com, call (407) 656-2121 or visit our office, 720 S. Dillard St., Winter Garden.

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WEST ORANGE TIMES

HIDDEN FIGURES

A DOG’S PURPOSE

PATRIOTS DAY

FRI: 4:10P, 7:10P, 9:50P SAT: 1:10P, 4:10P, 7:10P, 9:50P SUN: 1:10P, 4:10P, 7:10P MON-THURS: 4:10P, 7:10P

FRI: 4:40P, 7:40P, 9:55P SAT: 1:40P, 4:40P, 7:40P, 9:55P SUN: 1:40P, 4:40P, 7:40P MON-THURS: 4:40P, 7:40P

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THESE SHOWTIMES FOR:

FRIDAY, JANUARY 27 thru THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2 THE BEST MOVIE VALUE IN WO COUNTY

FRI: 6:50P, 9:50P SAT: 3:50P, 6:50P, 9:50P SUN: 3:50P, 6:50P MON-THURS: 6:50P

SPLIT

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FRI: 4:20P, 7:20P, 9:55P SAT: 1:20P, 4:20P, 7:20P, 9:55P SUN: 1:20P, 4:20P, 7:20P MON-THURS: 4:20P, 7:20P

FRI: 4:15P SAT: 1:15P SUN: 1:15P MON-THURS: 4:15P

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FRI: 4:30P, 7:30P, 9:55P SAT: 1:30P, 4:30P, 7:30P, 9:55P SUN: 1:30P, 4:30P, 7:30P MON-THURS: 4:30P, 7:30P

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FRI: 4:00P, 7:00P, 9:50P SAT: 1:00P, 4:00P, 7:00P, 9:50P SUN: 1:00P, 4:00P, 7:00P MON-THURS: 4:00P, 7:00P

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The West Orange Times & 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 West Orange Times & Observer, 720 S. Dillard St., Winter Garden, Florida 34787. Opinions in the West Orange Times & Observer are those of the individual writer and are not necessarily those of the West Orange Times & 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.

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WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017

St. Luke’s, east Winter Garden partner for community improvement

DANIELLE HENDRIX STAFF WRITER

In 2011, St. Luke’s United Methodist Church in Dr. Phillips set out to help improve the lives of children who live in poverty or low-income areas. Now, five years later, east Winter Garden has volunteers helping children get involved in artsbased extracurricular activities, Habitat for Humanity homes in the works and its own neighborhood alliance program. The partnership with east Winter Garden began in 2013 following extensive research to identify the best place to start. “We had identified within missions that we wanted to improve

WINTER GARDEN

siders and determining for the neighborhood what they wanted to have done.” Adam Hartnett, director of neighborhood ministry at St. Luke’s, said many of the residents have even begun to call the hospitality house their house. Looking back on the growth of the partnership between the neighborhood and the church, it all started with a handful of communityimprovement initiatives and the residents’ emotional investment. In 2014, church staff partnered with the residents to survey their neighbors on what they wanted to see in their neighborhood. From there, everyone came up with the initiatives to improve education, economic stability, housing and overall neighborhood well-being. “Being able to partner with some of the organizations and the residents themselves — that’s the only way this could have happened. Without the investment of the people who live here, I can’t imagine being where we are now,” Hartnett said. “This is all an embodiment of St. Luke’s values — really getting into the heart of service and getting involved in the community — and this is really one of the many ways we’ve expressed those values in our communities.”

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Descuentos en el Servicio Telefónico y de Internet Disponible para los Clientes de CenturyLink

Four years of success

La Comisión de Servicios Públicos de Florida designó a CenturyLink como un Proveedor de Telecomunicaciones Elegible dentro de su área de servicio para fines del servicio universal. Las tarifas de los servicios locales básicos de CenturyLink para las líneas telefónicas fijas son $21.22 por mes y los servicios corporativos son $31.00- $35.00 por mes. Las tarifas específicas serán suministradas a petición. CenturyLink participa en un programa de beneficios del gobierno (Lifeline) para permitir que el servicio telefónico fijo sea más asequible para individuos y familias elegibles de bajos ingresos. Los clientes elegibles son aquellos que cumplen con las normas de elegibilidad según lo definido por la FCC y las comisiones estatales. Los residentes que viven en Tierras Tribales reconocidas a nivel federal pueden calificar para beneficios Tribales adicionales si participan en algunos programas adicionales de elegibilidad federal. El descuento del programa Lifeline está disponible sólo para un número de teléfono o el servicio de banda ancha por hogar, y puede ser a través del servicio inalámbrico o de línea fija. Para calificar, las velocidades de banda ancha deben ser de 10 Mbps para descarga y 1 Mbps para carga o más veloz.

Sold-out Windermere Wine and Dine expected to see record turnout on Jan. 28. BRITTANY GAINES STAFF WRITER

For the last four years, the Windermere Wine and Dine has been met with success. In fact, with tickets already completely sold out, the 2017 Windermere Wine and Dine taking place on Jan. 28 is expected to reach new heights. “We’ve grown exponentially from our first year when I hoped we would just have enough restaurants,” said event Chair C.T. Allen. The Windermere Wine and Dine was originally created as a Mustang Foundations fundraiser for the Windermere Elementary School. But as interest increased in the fundraiser, Allen decided to take it to the next level and open it up to the town of Windermere. “We made it into a Windermere event to include all of the different committees and charities,” she said. And because of the size of the event, it takes everyone’s effort to pull everything together. Board members from Windermere Elementary’s Mustang Education Fund organized the event’s silent auction. Town council members have volunteered to set up tables and chairs on the morning of the event. And cooks from more than 20 restaurants will prepare food for more than 800 people. “The town has really wrapped

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Los descuentos Lifeline incluyen una restricción de transferencia (port freeze). Esto significa que usted no puede obtener el descuento Lifeline en el servicio con otro proveedor por un lapso de tiempo. La duración depende del servicio que usted adquiera – 60 días para el servicio telefónico de voz, 12 meses para el servicio de banda ancha que califique. Pueden aplicar algunas excepciones para las restricciones de transferencias. Para obtener más información, visite http:// www.lifelinesupport.org/ls/change-my-company.aspx.

WINDERMERE

Un hogar se define, para propósitos del programa Lifeline, como cualquier individuo o grupo de individuos que viven juntos en la misma dirección y comparten ingresos y gastos. El servicio Lifeline no es transferible, y solo los consumidores elegibles pueden inscribirse en el programa. Los consumidores que voluntariamente hagan declaraciones falsas con el fin de obtener el servicio telefónico Lifeline pueden ser castigados con multas o prisión y pueden ser excluidos del programa.

their arms around this,” Allen said. “People are now coming to us to be a part of it.” All the money raised during the Windermere Wine and Dine is given to the town and distributed to a variety of beneficiaries. This year, that list includes the Mustang Education Fund, the Windermere Historic Preservation Board, the Windermere Tree Board, the Windermere Parks and Recreation Board and the Windermere Police Foundation. Allen said that she expects to surpass the $100,000 mark this year, which would be a first for the event. At the inaugural Windermere Wine and Dine, about 400 people

Courtesy Photo

El servicio básico de internet también estará disponible para los suscriptores elegibles de Lifeline y ofrece también un servicio fiable de Internet de alta velocidad en casa de hasta 1,5Mbps por $9.95* al mes durante los primeros 12 meses de servicio. Por favor, llame al 1-800-257-3212 o visite el sitio web centurylink.com/internetbasics para más información en relación al Servicio Básico de Internet de CenturyLink. Si usted vive en un área de servicio de CenturyLink, por favor llame al 1-855-9546546 o visite el sitio web centurylink.com/lifeline en caso de dudas o para requerir una solicitud para el programa Lifeline.

attended and 15 restaurants participated. Last year, about 650 people attended and 24 restaurants participated. On Saturday, an estimated 800 people are expected to attend the event and 29 restaurants will be participating. This year will also have the largest silent auction the event has ever had, with more than 200 items up for bid. “It’s just such a nice thing that so many people have come around this and help us put this on,” Allen said. “Everybody loves this event.”

*Programa Básico de Internet de CenturyLink – sólo los clientes residenciales que califiquen en base al alcance del nivel de ingreso o los requerimientos de elegibilidad para la participación en el programa, y requiere que permanezcan elegibles durante todo el período de la oferta. La primera factura incluirá los cargos por el primer mes completo de servicio facturado por adelantado, cargos prorrateados por servicio desde la fecha de instalación hasta la fecha de la factura, y los cargos y cuotas únicas descritas anteriormente. Los clientes que califiquen pueden mantener este programa durante un máximo de 60 meses después de la activación del servicio, siempre y cuando el cliente siga calificando durante ese tiempo. La tarifa de Internet de Alta Velocidad de $9.95/mes se aplica durante los primeros 12 meses de servicio (después de este periodo, la tarifa aumenta de nuevo a $14.95/mes durante los siguientes 48 meses de servicio), y requiere un acuerdo con un plazo de 12 meses. El cliente debe alquilar un módem/ router de CenturyLink por un cargo mensual adicional o puede comprar de forma independiente un módem/router y deberá pagar una cuota única por la activación del servicio de Internet de Alta Velocidad. El cargo único de instalación profesional (si el cliente lo selecciona) y el cargo único por manejo y envío aplica para el módem/router del cliente. Servicios Generales no disponibles en todas partes. Los clientes no deben estar registrados actualmente en el servicio de Internet de CenturyLink. CenturyLink puede cambiar o cancelar los servicios o sustituir servicios similares a su entera discreción y sin previo aviso. Las ofertas, los planes y las tarifas indicadas están sujetas a cambio y pueden variar de acuerdo al área de servicio. Puede requerirse el pago de un depósito. Aplican restricciones adicionales. Términos y Condiciones – Todos los productos y servicios mencionados se rigen por las tarifas, los términos de servicio, o los términos y las condiciones publicados en centurylink.com. Impuestos, cargos y sobrecargos – Los impuestos, cargos y sobrecargos aplicables incluyen un cargo del proveedor del Servicio Universal, los sobrecargos de recuperación de costos del proveedor, los cargos estatales y locales que varían según el área y ciertos sobrecargos estatales. Los cargos de recuperación de costos no son impuestos o cargos requeridos por el gobierno para su uso. Los impuestos, cargos y sobrecargos se aplican en base a las tarifas mensuales, no promocionales y estándar.

Contact Brittany Gaines at bgaines@orangeobserver.com.

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All of the money raised will be distributed among several beneficiaries including the Mustang Education Fund and the Windermere Police Foundation.

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the life of children who live in poverty and experience ongoing hunger. We knew we had to help stabilize families,” said Lynette Fields, St. Luke’s executive director of missions. “We spent about 10 months interviewing organizations and residents and had focus groups. We were looking at three areas and east Winter Garden seemed like the best fit.” St. Luke’s and the East Winter Garden Neighborhood Alliance have worked together over the last few years on many community-enhancement projects. Most recently, though, St. Luke’s and EWGNA officially opened a hospitality house — to community members and volunteers. The church bought the property, located at 1000 Lincoln Terrace in Winter Garden, and transformed it from an abandoned house into one used for hospitality. It has office space and offers a place for volunteers and EWGNA to have meetings during the week. And, on Saturday, Jan. 14, residents and volunteers celebrated the grand opening of the hospitality house. “We see it as much as for the alliance as it is for St. Luke’s,” Fields said. “Our intention all along was to walk alongside the residents that are already here so that they could lead the change they want to see themselves, rather than us coming in as out-

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Dr. Phillips’ St. Luke’s United Methodist church has partnered with east Winter Garden residents for about five years to better serve and improve their community.

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JAZZ JAM WEEKEND 8 to 11 p.m. Friday, Jan. 27, and Saturday, Jan. 28, and 5 to 8 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 29, at Pilars Martini, 146 W. Plant St., Winter Garden. Jack Wilkins will join Chris Rottmayer, Charlie Silva and Walt Hubbard for three nights of jazz culminating in a jam session Sunday. Sign up to jam with them by 5:30 p.m. (407) 3698900. CHINA AND THE CELEBRATION OF INVENTION 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 27, at the Winter Garden Library, 805 E Plant St. From Kung Fu to kites, come celebrate the inventions of Ancient China. Children from ages 6 to 12 can take a trip to China through activities and crafts. (407) 835-7323.

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My dog was scratching severely, so much that it would make her bleed. I took her to four or five different veterinary offices only to have them tell me to change her food because “most dogs” have allergies to their food. We switched it, and absolutely nothing changed. After changing offices for the last time, we found Care Plus! This was the first office that recommended we do an allergy test to solve the problem permanently. She is now doing amazing and does not scratch at all! We have been taking our pets to them for years now! They love our pets as if they were theirs and will do anything to solve any problem! – Crystal Ravida

“Lori’s Orchids” by Janet Asbury

For the love of

watercolors BRITTANY GAINES STAFF WRITER

WINTER GARDEN There’s a new show in town — one that only comes around once a year. On Feb. 2, SoBo Gallery will kick off a twomonth-long exhibition featuring watercolor paintings from the Central Florida Watercolor Society. But it’s not just an exhibition; it’s a juried competition between CFWS’s best watercolor painters. “The calibre, the standard of the work is very, very high,” said Gabriella West, a co-founder of the Winter Garden Art Association and the SoBo Gallery. “You have the best of the best from the Central Florida Watercolor Society, then the best of their work.”

“This Here Horse” by Janet Dutton

The Central Florida Watercolor Society kicks off its annual juried exhibition at SoBo Gallery Feb. 2.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 8

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WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017

SoBo’s watercolor exhibition opens soon

CLERMONT PERFORMING ARTS CENTER

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CENTRAL FLORIDA WATERCOLOR SOCIETY’S ANNUAL JURIED EXHIBITION

you in 2017! “Lionfish” by Dawn Baldacchino

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 7

SoBo Gallery hosted the juried exhibit for the first time last year and decided to make it a repeat event for 2017. “It’s wonderful to have something on the west side (of Orlando),” said Kim Minichiello, member of the CFWS and second vice president of the Florida Watercolor Society. “People are very excited because there’s now a venue to host exhibitions.” The CFWS was founded in 1998 by a group of watercolor artists in Orlando. Today, the society has about 150 members from all across Central Florida and is part of the state’s large network of watercolor societies. Last year, nearly 50 paintings were featured during the exhibition at SoBo Gallery, and this year’s event is expected to feature roughly the same number of paintings. “It was amazing,” West said about last year’s show. The gallery regularly holds exhibits for local artists to participate in, but this upcoming show is unique in the fact that it showcases only watercolor paintings. While showcasing an entire exhibition of a single medium might sound boring, it is anything but, said Mary Keating, co-chairman of the association’s board of directors. “All these different artists have different techniques,” she said. “There are also lots and lots of different subject matters.” Some paintings feature vivid colors; others are painted in softer tones and some even look like they are as real as a photograph, Keating said. As a watercolor painter herself, Minichiello said the variety was one of the things she loved about the exhibition.

ONE NIGHT ONLY! Sat, February 4, 4:00p.m.

The ultimate celebration of music, dance and rituals from African cultures. This high-energy circus is packed with non-stop action and amazingly talented performers that will have you on the edge of your seat.

When: Feb. 2 to April 1 Where: SoBo Gallery, 127 S. Boyd St., Winter Garden Hours: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays Additional details: An art show reception for the exhibition will be held from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Feb. 2 at the SoBo Gallery. The reception is open to the public.

“It’s amazing to me that when we’re all using the same materials, the variety of techniques and subject matter is astounding,” she said. “It’s the heart, the head and the hand that goes in to each piece. It’s mindboggling.” The exhibition also allows beginner painters a chance to see where their talents could one day lead to, Minichiello said. “Art is like anything — you have to practice,” she said. “People don’t think art is that way, but it doesn’t just happen overnight.” Many of the artists who submitted work for the exhibition have been working at their craft for decades. During last year’s show, the Winter Garden Art Association purchased one of the featured paintings — a painting by Minichiello, in fact — with the goal of creating a private collection of artwork that can one day be displayed at the gallery. The WGAA plans on purchasing another piece from this year’s exhibition to grow the collection, Keating said. The exhibition will open with an art show reception, where the first-, second- and third-place awards will be given out in addition to several honorable mentions. The paintings were all judged by Jaimie Cordero — an award-winning watercolor painter from South Florida. “We do this because we love it,” Minichiello said. Contact Brittany Gaines at bgaines@ orangeobserver.com.

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WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

Big Orange Awards to salute top Chamber members

407-656-7947

PAT SHARR

Broker/Owner

407-948-1326

reviews the financial statements of all nonprofits requesting grants and helps educate nonprofits.” The Chairman’s Award honors an individual or business that has given exceptional service to the Chamber and the community during the year. “University of Central Florida is engrained within the WOCC on many levels and with the support of key individuals,” the Chamber said. “UCF is vital to the Chamber and our community, demonstrated through their involvement on the board, within committees, sharing expertise with events and overall leadership within the community.” Ambassador of the Year is awarded by the ambassador committee. Roat has been an active ambassador for many years. “Her participation with businesses as evidenced by her outstanding attendance at ambassador activities clearly defined her as the Ambassador of the Year,” the Chamber said. The Bert Roper Award is given in recognition of a champion who has improved the well-being and quality of life of the community. “Mary has always had a passion for the arts and understood the potential impact art could have on creating an even more healthy community,” the Chamber wrote. “She committed to create and recruit the initial Board of Directors and develop further the vision for the Winter Garden Art Association.” The George Bailey award is awarded in recognition of excellence in fostering partnerships for the benefit of the local community. “Reed Nissan has been a tremendous partner to the Chamber,” the Chamber said. “They are passionate about our community and support various local organizations … to help them succeed in their missions.” The Danniel J. Petro Bright Future of West Orange Award is given in recognition of entrepreneurial tenacity and steadfast determination that facilitates opportunity through investment in community and lifelong relationships. “Through Congressman Webster’s political tenure, both on state and federal levels, he has ensured the growth and prosperity of West Orange County,” the Chamber said. For more information, visit wochamber.com.

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3BDRM., 2BA. Condo with Split bedroom plan, living/dining room kitchen features all appliances that stay, all window coverings stay, inside laundry area comes with washer & dryer. Master bath has been updated with glass enclosed shower, dual sinks. Sliding glass doors off of master bedroom and living room to private screened lanai, paver flooring and storage area. HOA includes all maintenance on outside. Asking only $115,000

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Every year, the West Orange Chamber of Commerce holds the Big Orange Awards program to recognize outstanding individuals and businesses in the community. This year’s event is from 7 to 11 p.m. Friday, Feb. 3, at Disney’s Contemporary Resort. Receiving the 2016 Big Orange Awards are University of Central Florida, John Rinehart, Eva Tukdarian, Reed Nissan, Mary Keating, Congressman Daniel Webster and Kathleen Roat. The 2016 WOCC Business Member(s) of the Year will also be announced. The Sam Hovsepian Award is given in memory of an outstanding citizen and goes to someone who “stands head and shoulders above the crowd.” “John Rinehart exemplifies all these attributes,” the Chamber wrote. “Throughout his career, spanning decades, he worked to make master-planned communities such as Keene’s Pointe and Oakland Park livable and sustainable. … He continues to improve the community even now with a project in downtown Winter Garden.” The Mary VanDeventer Award - Spirit of West Orange award is awarded to a woman who shows professional excellence, inspires women to succeed and contributes time and talent to better the community. “Eva Tukdarian has been a catalyst for the betterment of West Orange County through her role as CFO with The Dr. P. Phillips Charities and her leadership in the West Orange Committee of 101,” said the Chamber. “She not only ensures that the real estate and financial assets of Dr. Phillips are invested wisely, she also

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PANORAMIC VIEWS OF JOHNS LAKE is just one of many features of this home, LAKEFRONT LIVING AT ITS BEST! Step inside and be Amazed, IMMACULATE condition! 4 bdrms, 4 baths (3 way split plan) living room, dining room, family room, office, kitchen with ALL STANLESS STEEL appliances, GRANITE island and countertops, 42” cabinets, wine refrigerator, walk-in pantry and breakfast nook. Upstairs BONUS room w/ full bath, GRANITE bar, pool table, bar stools, entertainment center w/tv and GORGEOUS view of the lake, DOCK with 1 boat lift and 2 jet ski lifts! 3 A/C systems. This was the model home with an air conditioned garage. Beautiful landscaped yard, irrigation is from the lake! Asking only $739,000.

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If you would like your pet to be considered for the “Pet of the Week”... email your furry friend’s photo to: Contest@OrangeObserver.com

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WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017

Edgewater celebrates 90

CommUnity Service

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

“That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me.” - John 17:21

Sunday, January 29 6pm

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The builder wanted natural light throughout the hotel, so skylights were installed in the lobby and the second and third floors were built around them. Lake Apopka was billed as “the most dependable bass fishing lake in the world,” garnering national attention and attracting prominent businessmen, celebrities and vacationers. Hotel employees would go to the roof and survey the lake for fishing guests and tell them what area they would be visiting that day. The hotel owned 20 rowboats and a houseboat. During World War II, it housed troops; the Washington Senators baseball team stayed there during spring training in the 1940s and ’50s. When Walt Disney World was being built, project workers were among the last to stay at the Edgewater. According to the rumors, actors Clark Gable and Humphrey Bogart had rooms in the hotel, and a number of commercials, television shows and movies have been filmed there. There was very little activity after 1968, and the building became an eyesore. In 1995, Mike Lanza and Max Blanchard formed The Edgewater Hotel Inc. and began an extensive historic restoration of the property. Five years later, the Choctaw Willy’s restaurant opened. Today, the hotel features an antique barbershop, an icecream shop and three restaurants. The upper floors were reopened to guests in 2003, and the hotel operates as a bed-and-breakfast-style inn. Modern amenities, such as air-conditioning, Wi-Fi and cable television were added as unobtrusively as possible. Hotel Scoop selected the Edgewater Hotel in its year-end “best of the best” for 2016. Contributors collectively

DICKERSON REMEMBERS WINTER GARDEN OF YEARS PAST CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

Whitehurst had owned the Edgewater for three years when Dickerson took him up on his offer. One of his fondest memories was being at the hotel during the period the Washington Senators used the Edgewater as their quarters during their spring training. In 1948, Winter Garden wasn’t quite the bustling center that it is today, and the city “pretty well went to bed after dark,” Dickerson said. “It was soon after World War II. It was a good era for Winter Garden. It was a good time for the business people.” The trip to Winter Garden changed Dickerson’s life in many ways. He met his wife, who was visiting friends in Lake Butler, and began a love story that continues today.

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Long after the ornaments are removed, these Christmas trees are given new life to help disabled war veterans, thanks to one Eustis carver and a determined Winter Garden vet.

January 26, 1987

It’s hard to believe, our little 8 lb. 10 oz. baby girl, our little red-headed spitfire, is 30-years old. You’ve persevered through tragedy and celebrated your triumphs; you’ve become stronger and more focused on your beliefs and your personal desires and expectations. We are so proud of you, Ash. We love you and hope 2017 is your year, and that all your dreams come true! <3

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Love you so much! Dad & Mom Xoxo

AMY QUESINBERRY COMMUNITY EDITOR

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

Some residents in Keene’s Pointe were disappointed to hear they couldn’t hold their annual bonfire in December, but they can rejoice in knowing the unused firewood is actually going to a worthy cause. About 65 Christmas trees collected for the outdoor fire are being repurposed into canes for disabled military veterans. This is the second year Oscar Devere, a Eustis resident and disabled Navy veteran, has worked on his tree-recycling project. Dan Kuhl, a weapons instructor with the Navy Reserves who lives in Winter Garden, saw Devere’s idea on Facebook and knew he wanted to get involved. Once the holidays were over and Christmas trees began showing up by the curb, Kuhl was out

Justin McWilliams January 26, 1982 to April 7, 2002

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picking them up with his golf cart and truck. He cuts the limbs off each one and periodically drives a batch to Devere. In the first year, he delivered about 70 trunks. This year, Devere has received around 120 from Kuhl and the Winter Garden community. The first cane was made in 2015 from a cypress branch Devere found while fishing. He said he had so much fun making it that he created seven more. When he decided to turn this into a larger project, he put the word out, and veterans from all over the United States began requesting a personalized cane. “I made a video asking, ‘If anyone needs a cane, I will make one for you for free,’” he said. “The video went viral. The orders came in, and in 15 days we had to stop; over 500 orders were taken. I read the stories, and I could not say no.” The craftsman continued making the canes and kept running out of wood. That’s when the management at the Lowe’s store in Mount Dora offered to donate the Christmas trees the store couldn’t sell. Devere received 181 trees. He figured out how to make a

thick and sturdy but lightweight cane, and he invests about four hours into each one. Each cane includes details pertaining to the veteran’s military branch and service record, and Devere purchases decals — such as aircraft, war ships and military insignias — for further personalization. And he always adds a penny with the year the vet entered the service. He set an initial goal of 500, and last week he made his 507th. He gives away all of his work; veterans do not pay anything for their canes. He does, on occasion, raffle one off to help recoup his expenses. “I’ve made canes for veterans with no fingers and a cane for a veteran who could not bend his wrist,” Devere said. “My canes are more than just a helper to walk. They get attention. Those who never talk about their war now talk. They stand tall as they did the day they entered the service. … They stand taller because they got their pride back. They hold their head up.” Follow Devere and his project on Facebook at Free Canes for Veterans. Contact Amy Quesinberry at amyq@orangeobserver.com.

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OrangeObserver.com WILLIAM THEODORE CURDTS III DIED TUESDAY, JAN. 3, 2017

William Theodore Curdts III, a resident of the Hermitage at Cedarfield in Richmond, Virginia, departed this life on Jan. 3, 2017. His body could no longer keep pace with his mind. Born April 4, 1924, in Craddock, Virginia, he was the only child of William T. Curdts Jr. and Elizabeth Palmer. After completing two years at Virginia Military Institute (Class of 1945), he interrupted his studies to serve as a P-47 pilot in the Army Air Corps during the Second World War. When the war ended, he was in California waiting to ship out and never saw combat. After the war he earned a degree in aeronautical engineering from Purdue University. Settling in Richmond, he worked as an aeronautical engineer for Texaco Experiment Incorporated and was later president of Flight Research Incorporated. In 1967, he moved with his family to Windermere to pursue business and investment opportunities and lived there until 2013, when he returned to Richmond. He was a trustee of the University of the South (Sewanee) and

was a founding member of the Episcopal Church of the Ascension near Windermere, where he served on the vestry. He was a Paul Harris Fellow of Rotary International and a founding member of the Windermere Rotary Club, where he served as president, treasurer and in various other leadership roles. He also served on the board of directors of the West Orange County chapter of Habitat for Humanity and with his friend Bill Criswell co-founded Home at Last, a charitable organization providing disability-friendly, mortgage-free homes to disabled combat veterans of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. He was preceded in death by his wife of 57 years, Mildred “Tatty” Fleming Curdts, and by his daughter, Courtney Curdts Stratton. He is survived by his sister-inlaw, Mary Pease Fleming; three sons, William Rives Curdts and his wife, Blair, Heath Palmer Curdts and his wife, Nancy, and Lewis Thomas Curdts and his wife, Ivy Sigel; by his son-inlaw William A. Stratton; and by nine granddaughters; two greatgrandsons; and a host of friends and admirers. He leaves behind a legacy of honor, integrity, service and good humor, of which we are all beneficiaries. He was buried on Saturday, Jan. 7, with his beloved Tatty at Hollywood Cemetery in Richmond. Memorial contributions may be made to the VMI Foundation, 304 Letcher Ave., Lexington, VA 24450; to Home at Last Project Inc., P.O. Box 38, Oakland, FL 34760; or to a charity of your choice.

LORRAINE JANETTE “LORRY” DELFOSSE DIED DEC. 16, 2016

Lorraine Janette “Lorry” Delfosse passed away on Dec. 16, 2016. Born Dec. 15, 1952, in Atlanta, Georgia, she was raised in the Atlanta, Jacksonville, Brevard County, Miami and Tampa areas. She graduated from the University of South Florida with a degree in English, speech and drama. Her life adventures took her to Pennsylvania, Ohio and many cities in Florida, but of all places she lived, she considered Windermere, Florida, her true home. “Lorry is the most completely creative person I have ever known,” her mother, Rae, often observed. Even as a child, she wrote and illustrated comic strips with elaborate characters and hilarious story lines. She expressed her joy of life and love of people by writing songs, stories, plays

and poetry as tributes to them. Lorry’s creations became the highlight of many family and dear friends’ special events. She parlayed her talents into a career as an English, reading and drama teacher at Apopka High School, where she directed plays and musicals, and Olympia High School in Windermere, from which she retired in 2014. Lorry also devoted her creative energies to Windermere, where she participated in the establishment of a new library, wrote and produced the town song, dressed up as the Easter Bunny for the annual Easter Egg Hunt and formed and directed Windermere Players, a children’s acting troupe that helped shape a generation of Windermere’s young people. The actors often performed her original plays and poetry, and she became well-known for creating masterful sets on the Town Hall stage from nothing more than garbage bags and paint. Her most important creations were her two daughters, Ali and Heather, to whom she devoted her life and from whom she received limitless love and joy. Lorry will be cherished as a woman who was compassionate, funny, thoughtful, gentle, kind and who lit up a room with her beautiful smile. She was loved deeply by all. Lorry is survived by her hus-

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band of 35 years, Steven Howell Walker; her children, Alexandra Janette Walker (Daniel Benrubi), Heather Marie Walker (Michael Falkowski) and Darla Mae (her pup); her mother, Rigmor (Rae) (Petersen) Delfosse; her sisters, Ellen Delfosse Darden (Frank), Therese Delfosse Osborne (William), Suzanne Marie Wilnau (Donald); her nieces and nephews, Kathryn Darden Smoltz (John, Sara Kathryn Waters and Ashley Waters), Frank Mark Darden, Kevin Ray Manry, Nicole Renee Manry, Gregory Russell Wilnau (Hannah), Erin Casey Osborne, Ryan Donald Wilnau (Amber and Lyric), Lauren Kathryn Wilnau and Michael Anthony Wilnau; her cousins, Marguerita Vignali Rossi (Ubaldo), Richard Float and Charmian (Mimi) Robinson (Jim). She is predeceased by her father, Russell Joseph Delfosse. The family will be hosting a celebration of her life at 1 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 18, at Windermere Town Hall, 520 Main St., Windermere, FL 34746. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in memory of Lorraine Delfosse to UF Shands Cancer Center Fund (000737), UF Health Cancer Center, Office of Development, P.O. Box 103633, Gainesville, FL 32610.

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SPORTS

Nathan Rodriguez helps Legacy Charter hoops team score two important victories. Page 15

Congratulations to our Observer Preps Athlete of the Week, Dynasty Carter. Carter, a senior guard for the Ocoee girls basketball team (17-5), has been an integral part of the Knights’ strong play of late. For more, visit ObserverPreps.com.

A goal in overtime by Emma Honis propelled the West Orange girls soccer team past Olympia, 3-2, in the semifinals of the Class 5A, District 4 Tournament Jan. 18. Two days later the Warriors (14-4-1) defeated Apopka 3-1 in the district championship.

Four members of the Ocoee Knights football team were recognized on the Associated Press Class 7A All-State Team. Lyston Barber was named to the First Team Defense, B.J. Bohler was named to the Second Team Defense and Konrie Brown and Dorian Jones were Third Team selections.

Full circle STEVEN RYZEWSKI SENIOR SPORTS EDITOR

Five members of the Foundation Academy football team were named to the Associated Press Class 2A All-State Team last week. Jaquane Patterson was named to the First Team Offense, Evan Thompson and Chaz Cannon were named to the First Team Defense and Eddie Loos and Cory Rahman were Second Team selections.

West Orange High senior punter Colby Adamson was named to the Associated Press Class 8A All-State Second Team Defense.

OCOEE As an emergency room nurse at Orlando Regional Medical Center, Jennifer Schwenneker constantly stays on the move during her 12-hour shifts. Afterward, the Winter Garden resident is tired like anyone else would be, except that on some days after her shift ends, there isn’t time to be tired. Not only is she a mother of two children, but as the new recreation director at the West Orange Girls Club in Ocoee, there’s plenty of work to be done — much to the amazement of her husband, Jeff Schwenneker. “I tell her all the time that it amazes me how she’ll be dogtired after a shift … and as soon as she walks through the front gate (at WOGC), she gets her second wind,” Jeff said. “She gets her energy again.” Jeff understands his wife’s passion for the game — sometimes joking that she loves softball more than him — and, in particular, for the West Orange Girls Club. It is, after all, where he chose to propose to her on Dec. 26, 2006, while Jennifer was home for the holiday while playing softball for

Jennifer Schwenneker started her softball career at the West Orange Girls Club back in 1992, a launching pad for a career at West Orange High and the University of North Alabama. Now, she is the facility’s recreation director, and is intent on growing and improving the product.

the University of North Alabama. She said yes, and not too long after that their first child, Jordan, arrived. Jennifer’s playing career came to a close soon after, but she could never stay far from the game. A degree in exercise science meant working in the health and fitness industry for several years before eventually becoming a nurse, and all the while she continued to coach and volunteer where she could. Then, a little more than a year ago, an opportunity came about at the WOGC. Given that the Club is where Jennifer had started playing softball way back in 1992 as a firstgrader — long before she took the field as a West Orange Warrior in high school or a North Alabama Lion in college — the opportunity to come back was to good to pass up. “Everyone who knows me knows how passionate I am about softball,” Jennifer said. “Softball was my first love and I just want to do something good for these girls.” Jennifer began as a coach but soon enough emerged as a natural candidate to replace Melanie Finley as the recreation director.

Finley, who has been involved in the program since 2002, wanted to step back her time commitment as rec director to focus more on her coaching duties. So, one of the program’s own has come back to lead it, and the challenge now is to help it grow back to the levels of participation it once enjoyed when it was the main act for youth softball on this side of Orlando — back before travel and club softball became all the rage.

Steven Ryzewski

Local girls showed their skills at tryouts at the West Orange Girls Club Jan. 21.

SEE PAGE 16

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

SPORTS SPOTLIGHT

CFCA hoops putting it together as win streak grows The Eagles have won nine consecutive games dating back to December, outscoring opponents by an average margin of 29 points per game. Photos by Steven Ryzewski

SENIOR SPORTS EDITOR

“The boys focused so well on the game plan and they brought very high energy,” McClintock said of the win against Vanguard. “They combined energy with effort as good as they have all year. They executed so well.” The Eagles hosted Agape Christian Academy and The Villages Charter this week in a pair of games after the time of publication and will host Trinity Prep Jan. 27 at 7:30 p.m.

Which remaining game are you most excited for? Probably our next game against Orangewood. We haven’t beat them in a while and it would feel really good to beat that team. Who is the NBA player you look up to the most? I look up to Dwyane Wade the most. I like that when he came out of college, I feel like he had a lot of intensity. He played the game with a lot speed and passion. What’s the best advice coach Matthew Post has given you or the team? He’s just told us to always play with confidence and to have fun on the court. What do you want to do for a career? I want to make it professional in the NBA, but if that doesn’t happen, I like music so maybe I’d like to be a musician. I played the trumpet for three years. — STEVEN RYZEWSKI

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