WINDERMERE
Observer Serving Southwest Orange County
YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD. FREE
VOLUME 2, NO. 16
Chamber to honor Eva Tukdarian at awards event The West Orange Chamber of Commerce will award Tukdarian the Mary VanDeventer — Spirit of West Orange at the Big Orange Awards event Friday, Feb. 3.
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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2017
Ate, drank, made merry Annual Windermere Wine & Dine hosts record turnout. SEE PAGE 9.
Touched by an angel
BRITTANY GAINES
When Jane Guida went through her own breast cancer battle at 49, a hospital volunteer’s kindness gave her the strength to persevere. She vowed to return the favor.
STAFF WRITER
When Eva Tukdarian heard she was selected as the winner of this year’s Mary VanDeventer — Spirit of West Orange award, she was surprised. “I was just really honored,” she said. “I had no idea I would be getting an award for helping different people and projects.” Every year, the West Orange Chamber of Commerce selects a woman who demonstrates excellence in her profession, inspires other women to succeed and contributes time and
WEST ORANGE
GABBY BAQUERO STAFF WRITER
M
ost would not blame Jane Guida — a breast-cancer survivor — from never wanting to step foot inside a hospital again. But every Friday morning for the past 15 years, Guida — a transplant from Connecticut and a retired Windermere resident — has donned her red hospital volunteer uniform adorned with a lapel pin of a cancer ribbon on the collar and made her way to the UF Health Cancer Center in downtown Orlando.
SEE AWARD PAGE 4
YOUR TOWN BRUHN ELECTED TO WATCH BOARD
SEE VOLUNTEER PAGE 4
Gabby Baquero
Windermere Mayor Gary Bruhn has been elected to the board of directors for Florida Business Watch. This is a trade association serving the unique needs of government contractors, and members work hand-in hand with elected officials and administrators as colleagues, solving problems together. “I am honored to join the board of directors of Florida Business Watch,” Bruhn said. “As we move to bring more jobs, more economic opportunity and more cooperation between government and Florida businesses, I look forward to serving with this board.” PRSRT STD ECRWSS US POSTAGE PAID WINTER GARDEN, FL PERMIT NO. 81
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A survivor herself, Windermere resident Jane Guida has logged 2,000 volunteer hours at Orlando Health’s UF Health Cancer Center over a span of 15 years.
Dr. Krista Bixler takes helm at Bay Meadows Bixler has been serving as acting principal since summer and was assistant principal before that. AMY QUESINBERRY COMMUNITY EDITOR
Dr. Krista Bixler has a new position at Bay Meadows Elementary, but she is already a familiar face at the Southwest Orlando school. Bixler, who was officially named principal of the BMES Koalas in January, has been acting princi-
DR. PHILLIPS
pal since last June. She also spent a year as the school’s assistant principal. Her goal is to maintain the school’s high-performance record and to continue to excel in academics. Last year, she implemented a series of after-school programs SEE BIXLER PAGE 2
Amy Quesinberry
Krista Bixler was officially appointed principal of Bay Meadows at the beginning of January.
WINDERMERE OBSERVER
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THURSDAY, FEB. 2
YOU R CALENDAR
OrangeObserver.com
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2017
CHILI COOK-OFF 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. CUISINE CORNER JUNIOR: VALENTINE RICE KRISPIES TREATS 3:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 2, at the Windermere Library, 530 Main St. Learn how to turn a classic delight into a Valentine’s Day treat! Ages 8 to 18. (407) 835-7323. LIVE MUSIC: THE RIGHT STUFF 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 2, at Dexter’s of Windermere, 4757 The Grove Drive, Windermere. Visit windermere.dexwine.com.
FRIDAY, FEB. 3
LIVE MUSIC: WINDERMERE ASSEMBLY 7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 3, and Saturday, Feb. 4, at Dexter’s of Windermere, 4757 The Grove Drive, Windermere. Visit windermere. dexwine.com. WEST ORANGE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BIG ORANGE AWARDS 7 to 11 p.m. Friday, Feb. 3, at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, 4600 World Drive, Lake Buena Vista. This event celebrates the accomplishments and triumphs of some of the chambers most admired and inspirational members. For more, visit wochamber.com.
WINDERMERE FARMERS MARKET 9 a.m. Fridays at Town Hall, 520 Main St., Windermere. For more, visit town.windermere. fl.us.
SATURDAY, FEB. 4
AFROCENTRIC ORLANDO 4 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 4, at the Rosen JCC, 11184 S. ApopkaVineland Road, Orlando. In celebration of Black History Month, this event will feature a runway fashion show, ethnic arts and crafts, performances, traditional music, dances and more. Cost is $10; proceeds benefit The Shule Adetunde Performing Arts. (407) 5525999 or afrocentricorlandoevent2017.eventbrite.com. DRAMATIC DISNEY 11 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 4, at the Windermere Library, 530 Main St. Students will learn choreography to Disney songs accompanying a scripted musical to be performed at the end of the session. Presented by Dramatic Education. Kindergarten through third grade. (407) 835-7323.
SUNDAY, FEB. 5
KIDS MEGA CHALLAH BAKE 3 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 5, at the Rosen JCC, 11184 S. ApopkaVineland Road, Orlando. For more, visit jewishorlando.com. LAKEFRONT FARMERS MARKET AT SUMMERPORT VILLAGE noon to 4 p.m. Sundays at Summerport Village, Summerport Village Parkway. For more, visit facebook.com/summerportvillagemarket.
MONDAY, FEB. 6
SOUTHWEST HOMESCHOOL CLUB: PRESIDENT’S DAY PARTY 1 p.m. Monday, Feb. 6, at the Southwest Library, 7255 Della Drive, Orlando. Have you ever wanted to know what it’s like to be president? Join friends for trivia, activities and games to see if you have what it takes to be commander in chief. Ages 6 to 12. (407) 835-7323. PIGGLEBRATION 10:30 a.m. Monday, Feb. 6, at the Windermere Library, 530 Main St. Celebrate National Pig Day with stories and activities featuring some favorite pigs. Ages 2 to 4. (407) 835-7323.
TUESDAY, FEB. 7
VALENTINE SURPRISE 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 7, at the Windermere Library, 530 Main St. Are you ready for a Valentine surprise? Grab a friend and head to the library for Valentine fun. Ages 3 to 5. (407) 835-7323.
THURSDAY, FEB. 9
WINDERMERE GARDEN CLUB 9:30 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 9, at Windermere Town Hall, 520 Main St. Presentation on gardening and planting by Robert Bowden, director of Leu Gardens. Peggy, (407) 876-4239. WEST ORANGE REPUBLICAN WOMEN FEDERATED 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 9, at the West Orange Country Club, 3300 West Orange Country Club Drive, Winter Garden. Guest speaker is John Zweifel, curator to the White House since the end of World War II. Lunch is $20. RSVP to Rebecca Mellen, (407) 230-5968.
Bixler ready to lead CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1
that have proven to be successful. Students can choose from drama, pottery, soccer, basketball, golf, guitar, piano, chess, art club and a STEM program. Soon, tutors from Sylvan Learning Center are scheduled to go to the school to assist students who need extra help. “Participation is high, and they have been very popular,” Bixler said of the programs. “I know golf has been popular; they just added another session.” Working at the elementary school level always has been her passion, and most of her career with Orange County Public Schools has been with kindergartners through fifth-graders. She earned a bachelor’s degree in special education and a master’s and doctoral degrees in education leadership, all from the University of Central Florida. She started as a special education teacher at Waterford Elementary in 1998. She has served as assistant principal at West Creek and Shingle Creek elementary schools, as well as Freedom High School. When a peer suggested she apply for the high school job, she did so for the challenge. “It was interesting because
BAY MEADOWS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 9150 Apopka-Vineland Road, Orlando (407) 876-7500 Principal: Krista Bixler Enrollment: 590
West Creek is a feeder for Freedom, so I had (students) in elementary school and again in high school,” she said. “The art program is big at Freedom, and it was neat to see them in their little programs at West Creek and then performing at Freedom. It made me proud to see that for them.” Bixler is only the fourth principal in Bay Meadows’s 27-year history. Melanie Craig opened the school in 1990, followed by Dr. Diane Gullet and Pamela Angelo. Last year, Bay Meadows was one of two schools recognized by Orange County Public Schools for being a Five-Star School for 25 consecutive years. “The school and community have been very supportive of me since I’ve been here, and it’s a great community to work with,” Bixler said. Contact Amy Quesinberry at amyq@orangeobserver.com.
“The school and community have been very supportive of me since I’ve been here, and it’s a great community to work with.’ — Dr. Krista Bixler
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WHAT’S A CHIBI? “Chibi” is a Japanese term that means “short person” or “small person.” Chibis are characters in popular culture, especially in the manga and anime communities. They’re often depicted in the English-speaking anime and manga communities as small, cute characters with oversized heads.
Horizon West resident Kelly North Adams shows off one of the Chibis in her new game, Chibi Quest!
Game on! Board-game designer Kelly North Adams’ latest game, Chibi Quest!, is one of five finalists in Hasbro’s contest to find the next family board game. DANIELLE HENDRIX STAFF WRITER
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HORIZON WEST
SUPPORT CHIBI QUEST! Adams has an Indiegogo site set up for Chibi Quest! but is not selling retail copies of the game. If you want a copy of Chibi Quest! you can pledge a dollar to her Indiegogo page, which will let Hasbro know you want the game to get printed. Any money raised goes toward making the “Chibi swag” listed in the pledge perks, the storybook and to Adams’ artist, Mibu. Pledge here: bit.ly/2jvwikd
Danielle Hendrix
t all started with a stack of blank cards, blank tokens and a whole lot of creativity at a prototype gaming convention. But what Summerport Village resident Kelly North Adams didn’t know at the time was that when she sat down at the convention and let her imagination and love for tabletop board games run free, she would inadvertently launch her career as a board-game designer. Her first board game, a card game called Veggie Garden, was drawn out and designed in less than two hours. “I’ve played games all my life … but I’ve gotten really back into it in the past 10 years, where I grew my collection and it’s become a big part of my life,” Adams said. “Over the past 10 years, I’ve seen an influx of females starting to play games. It’s been sort of a male-dominated industry, especially in the way of
when it comes to designing, playing and publishing games.” Now, just more than a year later, she has created a total of five games, two of which are either under contract or published. But her most recent game, Chibi Quest!, is quickly gaining momentum — multinational game- and toy-making company Hasbro has chosen it as one of the five finalists in its recent contest for the next great family game. Chibi Quest! is a light, fun, family-friendly game that takes less than an hour to play. Players take on the role of a Chibi and start out dressed in their pajamas. The Chibis are the protectors of their land, Shortshire, and must keep it from being invaded by monsters. Players do this in three phases: equipping the Chibi, fighting the monsters and defeating the “boss.” The inspiration came from Adams’ 12-year-old nephew, who loves video games and roleplaying games. Adams wanted to create a game where players could take on different roles but play with friends and family and interact
2. Battling monsters is next. Collect all the dice shown on your armor cards. Some monsters are stronger than others, and you must meet the sword requirements to beat the monster. 3. Fight until you faint. The first Chibi to cover up all his or her hit points faints. Then, everyone finishes out the round so everyone has an equal number of turns. After monsters are defeated, everyone has another minute to equip with fresh, undamaged armor to defeat the “boss.” 4. If you defeat the boss you are all winners, but there is only one Champion Chibi! Count up all your points and whoever has the most is known throughout the lands as the Champion Chibi.
Contact Danielle Hendrix at dhendrix@orangeobserver.com.
Blair M. Johnson
New Year’s Resolution:
Clean out the Garage
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socially rather than on a computer. “It’s bringing the world of fantasy to the table,” she said. “I’m a big fan of any way you can bring your family together and have fun. It’s interactive, it’s silly, and there’s a little bit of strategy in it, too. It’s popular with kids and families and gamers. It kind of fits a lot of different groups.” Each of the five finalists is required to reach at least 100 backers on his or her Indiegogo campaign page and to reach his or her fundraising tier. At the end of the campaign, games will then be evaluated by a panel of judges. Hasbro’s celebrity guest judge is Daymond John, the founder of FUBU and a “shark” on ABC’s show “Shark Tank.” The winner of the contest will be flown to Hasbro headquarters to meet the team, have his or her game published and receive $25,000. “I’ve told Hasbro it hasn’t quite set in that I’m actually a finalist yet; I’m still in awe,” Adams said. “For them to pick the game (as the winner) it would be really big as a board-game designer because it’s one of the biggest companies you could work with.”
1. Choose and equip your Chibi. Depending on the number of players, deal out equipment cards face down. Everyone gets treasure coins that add up to a total of 15. Then, you have one minute to flip the cards over and search for available armor, paying for any armor you want to use in the game.
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n Six different, double-sided characters, each with a boy and girl version n 30 chunky battle dice n A stack of monster cards n Treasure coins n Damage tokens n 120 equipment cards with weapons, special powers, chest plates and more n One-minute timer n The “boss monster” for the final boss round
The family-friendly game plays anywhere from one to six players. Here’s how to start your quest:
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WHAT’S IN THE BOX?
HOW TO PLAY
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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2017
Cancer battle inspires volunteer CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1
While there, Guida spent five to six hours preparing food, snacks and drinks and engaging in conversations to help patients receiving chemotherapy treatment pass the time as comfortably as possible. To date, she’s logged 2,000 volunteer hours. Guida’s efforts and dedication motivated Trustco Bank’s Windermere branch manager, Messerette Newsome, to nominate Guida for the bank’s Hometown Heroes award. The award, an honor given to individuals for exemplary contributions to their communities, earned Guida a plaque recognizing her service to Orlando Health, as well as a $1,500 donation from Trustco Bank to the UF Health Cancer Center. Yet, despite the recognition and 15 years of service, Guida has no plans to quit anytime soon. She feels she’s only repaying a debt of kindness she once received from volunteers during her chemotherapy sessions at the H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa. At 49, Guida was diagnosed with stage-two breast cancer after a biopsy proved a suspicious lump was indeed a malignant tumor. At stage two, the cancerous cells enter your bloodstream. The unwelcome news, she said, turned her life upside down.
“The best part is when you have someone who gets a grant and is able to accomplish their goal and move onto the next step. I think that’s really exciting.” — Eva Tukdarian
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talent for the betterment of the community as the winner of the award. “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,” chamber officials said. “In her role at DP Charities, she not only ensures that the real estate and financial assets of Dr. Phillips are invested wisely, she also reviews the financial statements of all nonprofits requesting grants and helps educate nonprofits in the areas of strengthening financial internal controls, exempt organization tax laws and technology.” The award was created in 2007 and named after the late Mary VanDeventer, a lifelong resident and supporter of West Orange County.
ATTITUDE IS EVERYTHING
A year of chemotherapy and radiation treatment followed. Her first chemotherapy treatment came the day of her 25th wedding anniversary. Guida remembered crying to herself as she wondered if she were reaching the end of her life. While her thoughts spiraled into negativity, a volunteer suddenly approached her and asked if she wanted to talk. The volunteer sat down next to her. Guida doesn’t remember what the volunteer said, but she remembers the volunteer gently squeezing her hand and rubbing her back and neck, settling her down. “After she left, I thought, ‘You know, if I survive this, I want to do this for somebody else.’ Because after that, I was OK,” Guida said. “When I went in for my treatments every three weeks, I was OK. And the strange thing was — I always called her my angel — because I kept asking the head nurses if they’d ever seen the volunteer that sat with me that day. I’d said I’d like to see her again and thank her because she really did help me. In that one day, she helped me get through the next year. But they said, ‘No, we never saw her again.’” To this day, Guida believes God sent her an angel when she needed one. So after a year of treatment, plus an extra year of waiting for
According to the chamber, VanDeventer had been a member of many service organizations and served in various leadership roles. Her service included being a charter member and past president of the West Orange Art and Historical Association, which eventually became the Winter Garden Heritage Foundation, and a charter member and served on the Oakland Nature Preserve board of directors. She was also active in the Orange Memorial Nurses Alumni Association, the West Orange Chamber of Commerce and the Friends of Lake Apopka. Tukdarian was born and raised in the Orlando area and graduated from Oak Ridge High School. “This is my home and always has been my home and will probably always be my home, but what I really do like here are the people,” Tukdarian said. “It’s just very exciting to see the growth in this area. And West Orange Chamber (is) a great group of business people.” For the last 11 years, Tukdarian has worked as the chief financial officer, chief investment officer, treasurer and assistant secretary of Dr. Phillips Charities. “I’m very pleased do work on this side of town,” she said. “I think a lot of people don’t understand what we do. We don’t ask for donations, but we have to earn all money we give back out.” Dr. Phillips Charities distributes between $8 million and $10 million to nonprofit organization every year, and one of Tukdarian’s jobs is to ensure that funds are going to the proper organizations. “Everyone puts in financials for their dreams and goals, and then we have to vet all that,” she said. “We only give out money to nonprofits that have sound financial practices, and sometimes people aren’t ready yet.” But for some of the nonprofits deemed not yet ready, Tukdarian sometimes steps in to give them a helping hand.
her hair to grow back and to start looking healthy again, Guida did what she pledged to do that first day, and she signed up to volunteer at a cancer center. CANCER IS A WAR
During her volunteer hours, Guida mostly helps patients pass the time with light conversation. Sometimes, they discuss different movies they’ve seen or books they’ve read. Other times, she gets very chatty patients who tell her their whole life story in 20 minutes. However, sometimes, she gets patients who gently shun her efforts to approach them. But as she is intimately familiar with the challenges of battling cancer, she understands. “When they say cancer is a battle, they mean it’s a war, because chemotherapy is tough,” she said. “You have a lot of bad days where you feel awful. So that’s why I understand when I see a patient and they, sometimes, just sit there and go like this (gesturing with an outstretched palm), which means, you know, just leave me alone.” As a cancer patient, Guida had tough days too, so she is thankful for her recovery. According to the American Cancer Society, there are more than 3.1 million breast cancer survivors in the United States. However, breast cancer
remains the second leading cause of cancer death in women after lung cancer, and the ACC estimates about 40,610 women will die from breast cancer in 2017. Given the statistics and her own experience, she deeply empathizes with the 30 to 40 outpatients she cares for every Friday and tries her best to make them as comfortable as possible. “They just got the worst news you could ever hear,” Guida said. “And I have empathy for them because I know the first thing you think about is, ‘Am I gonna be here next year? Am I gonna celebrate another birthday?’ You don’t know. It’s a very difficult time, so we try to do everything we can for the patients.” When they consider the continual advances of modern medicine, Guida said, she and her fellow volunteers grow optimistic for the survival chances of their patients. Sometimes, Guida even runs into fully recovered patients she met at the cancer center months or years later. Anyone wishing to learn more about volunteering at an Orlando Health facility may visit Orlandohealth.com/volunteer-services or contact Shari Bryant at (321) 841-5902. Contact Gabby Baquero at gbaquero@orangeobserver.com
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.” 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, 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@ OrangeObserver.com Creative Services Andrés Tam, atam@OrangeObserver.com Tony Trotti, ttrotti@OrangeObserver.com Customer Service Representatives Allison Brunelle, abrunelle@OrangeObserver.com Sarah Felt, sfelt@OrangeObserver.com
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UCF WINS CHAIRMAN’S AWARD As “America’s leading partnership university” — a term coined by University of Central Florida President John C. Hitt — UCF aims to expand its reach just beyond east Orlando. And its partnership with the West Orange Chamber of Commerce is just one of the partnerships it has helped nurture thus far. The WOCC’s Chairman’s Award honors an individual or business that has given exceptional service to the chamber and the community during the year. During this year’s Big Orange Awards on Feb. 3, UCF will receive this recognition. Kimberly Hardy, assistant vice provost of UCF’s central region campuses and current chamber board member, said partnering with organizations such as WOCC helps to promote economic progress in the region and establishes a mutual understanding between them. “The chamber has (more than) 1,100 members, and so the ability for us to partner with them and reach out to those employees helps us to find out what their needs are, what they’re looking for and how we can help meet those needs,” Hardy said. “The chamber has
“They’re so focused on their mission that (financials) go to the back of the house,” she said. “It’s not the fun part or sexy part, but it’s stuff that has to be done in order to allow yourself to grow.” But the best part of her job, she said, is watching the progress of the nonprofits. “The best part is when you have someone who gets a grant and is able to accomplish their goal and move onto the next step,” Tukdarian said. “I think that’s really exciting.” Tukdarian’s involvement in the community doesn’t just extend
the pulse on what’s going on in West Orange. They’re (WOCC) very welcoming, they keep us informed of economic, political, social and educational happenings in West Orange, and (that) provides us opportunities to get to know and meet the leaders of West Orange and establish those relationships.” UCF is one of the trustees of the chamber and a representative who sits on the board. Hardy sits on the education committee and determines how UCF can reach out to the West Orange County community. Other UCF representatives work with the WOCC on events such as the Hob Nob and Straw Poll and on keeping them up to date with the university’s projects. “It’s a huge honor (to receive this award), and a testament to the productive partnership we have between the university and the chamber,” Hardy said. “They’ve really provided us the opportunity (to build relationships) and ultimately those partnerships benefit the surrounding community. It’s a great honor to work with them.” — DANIELLE HENDRIX
through her work with Dr. Phillips Charities. She volunteers on the finance committee of the Central Florida YMCA and has served on the investment committee of St. Luke’s United Methodist Church and the audit committee of Soorp Haroutin Armenian Church. She also racked up many volunteer hours with the Dr. Phillips High School back when her children attended school there. “I’m just trying to my best to help people out,” she said. Contact Brittany Gaines at bgaines@orangeobserver.com.
The Windermere Observer is published once weekly, on Thursdays. It provides subscription home delivery. The Windermere Observer also can be found in commercial locations and at our office, 720 S. Dillard St., Winter Garden. If you wish to subscribe to, visit our website, OrangeObserver.com, call (407) 656-2121 or visit our office, 720 S. Dillard St., Winter Garden.
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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.
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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2017
MEET THE CANDIDATES: Windermere Town Council
T
own of Winder-
ROBERT “BOB” MCKINLEY
RICHARD MONTGOMERY
JAMES “JIM” O’BRIEN
CHRIS SAPP
Age: 71 Profession: Controller Relevant experience: Two-year term on the Windermere Town Council; council liaison to the Elders Committee, Parks and Recreation Committee and the Projects Committee
Age: 64 Profession: Civil engineer by education; 10 years with the Florida Municipal Power Agency
Age: 48 Profession: Director of Workforce Development for Goodwill Industries of Central Florida Relevant experience: Three terms on Windermere Town Council; council liaison for the Windermere Police Department, Windermere Police Department Foundation and the Windermere Long Range Planning Committee
Age: 33 Profession: Real-estate professional Relevant experience: Windermere Downtown Business Committee 2008 to 2017 (chairman 2014 to 2017)
mere residents will head to the polls
March 14 to cast ballots for three open Town Council seats. The candidates include incumbents Bob McKinley and Jim O’Brien and newcomers Richard Montgomery and Chris Sapp.
Editor’s note: The candidates’ responses have been edited for space. For complete, unedited answers, visit OrangeObserver.com.
What are the biggest issues facing the town of Windermere? n Most residents utilize well water and are on septic systems. We are pursuing grants and seeking funding to help resolve the water and septic issues. n We need to improve our pedestrian walkways. n Road improvements are needed. We had a company specializing in pavement assessment. They laser-scanned all of our paved roads, and from that report, we developed a five-year plan to prioritize repaving. n Stormwater remains a problem, and we have made many improvements in our system. Shared funding has been obtained for one of our areas prone to flooding.
What are the biggest issues facing the town of Windermere? n Ensuring the “will of the people” is being heard and addressed (at the council) n How to maintain the “charm” of the town while adapting to our growing traffic congestion and the escalating growth of surrounding Orange County n How to make capital improvements to the town’s infrastructure without increasing the residents’ tax burden n How best to prioritize limited available funds and still meet the needs of town residents n Ensure the safety of residents in this world of escalating violence and turmoil The town charter currently limits the amount of debt the town can incur in any fiscal year. What is your opinion on the matter? The current financial borrow-
What are the biggest issues facing the town of Windermere? n Infrastructure improvements n Garnering our share of federal, state and local funding to improve vehicle, cyclist and pedestrian safety in Windermere n Continued improvement of water quality in the Butler Chain of Lakes n Development to the southwest and north of Windermere that brings increased traffic The town charter currently limits the amount of debt the town can incur in any fiscal year. What is your opinion on the matter? Currently our town char-
What are the biggest issues facing the town of Windermere? n Road improvements/drainage n Updating parks and aesthetics to the town entrances n Improvements to the police and administration buildings n Create business diversity downtown n Sidewalks and/or multi-use paths n Seek additional revenue without raising taxes The town charter currently limits the amount of debt the town can incur in any fiscal year. What is your opinion on the matter? Our roads are in horrendous shape in many areas. With the current charter structure, this will take years for us to accomplish the direst of areas, while
CANDIDATE ANSWERS CONTINUED ON PAGE 6
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ing limitation places a significant burden upon the town and its operations. However, any modification to the borrowing structure must ensure that future council decisions are managed in a fiscally prudent manner to ensure any debt liability does not result in increased taxation upon residents. My understanding of the options being presented to voters in the March election are reasonable options for the voters to consider.
ter limits the council’s ability to fund and complete needed improvements. I support the increase in borrowing authority to utilize proper financing and capital to complete needed projects.
Does the police department need new facilities? Town government facilities, including the police department, are outdated and need to be replaced. A referendum to borrow funds to build new facilities was defeated last year because of no definitive plan as to style, cost and location. ... I believe once a definite cost and location are determined, residents will give their approval. CHRIS SAPP
other areas will continue to fall through the cracks. This is not ideal for safety of children, our vehicles or property values. Option No. 1 gives flexibility with borrowing negotiation while keeping a low debt ratio. There are non-partisan studies that are in place to prioritize projects in an unbiased way.
Does the police department need new facilities? The building is truly inadequate to meet the needs of a police department. Yes, we are a small town, but that does not diminish the expectations we all have for an efficient and capable police force. Chief David Ogden has done a superb job in turning the WPD into an agency that we all can be proud of and trust. The current facilities cannot meet the needs of a modern police force to ensure its ability to serve the public in the manner expected in today’s evolving environment. Voting on every project will result in projects taking years to accomplish. ... We all vote for council members to make sure the town manager stays fiscally responsible. Does the police department need new facilities? The police and admin buildings are seemingly just short of being held together by duct tape
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The town charter currently limits the amount of debt the town can incur in any fiscal year. What is your opinion on the matter? The charter restricts borrowing for any project to 12.5% of our annual budget. This means that for any project costing (more than) about $600,000, we would have to hold a special referendum to obtain voter approval. This costs a lot — both in time and (money). The first option on the ballot will be to change to a 10% debtservice limit. The second option would change the amount we can borrow for a project from 12.5% to 30%.
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ARTS + CULTURE
Courtesy photo
“The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee” opens Friday, Feb. 3, at the Garden Theatre in Winter Garden. It runs until Feb. 26.
MIDDLE-SCHOOL BRITTANY GAINES STAFF WRITER
F
or cast members of “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee,” their roles playing tweens are a trip down memory
lane to their time in middle school — when everyone suffered from puberty and questionable fashion sense.
BLUES Cast members of “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee” share their most embarrassing middle-school stories.
SEE PAGE 8
QUICK HITS SATURDAY, FEB. 4
BUGGY, IT’S COLD OUTSIDE 10 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 4, at the Oakland Nature Preserve, 747 Machete Trail. Christy LeDuc will present an insect safari about how insects can survive winter weather. Learn all about the different adaptations insects have and then join Christy for an insect safari hike in search of
insects. Bug nets and containers will be provided. (407) 9050054. SUNSHINE JAZZ FESTIVAL 6:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 4, at Ocoee High School, 1925 Ocoee Crown Point Parkway, Ocoee. HapCo Music Foundation is hosting an evening performance with Peter and Will Anderson, the University of Florida Gator Jazz Band, The Flying Horse Big Band (The UCF Jazz Ensemble)
RAVE OF THE WEEK
and the Ocoee High School Jazz Band. Tickets are $5 for students and $10 for adults in advance, $10 and $15 the day of the event. Proceeds go to the Ocoee High band program. Hapcojazzfest2017.eventbrite. com. Hapcopromo.com. BETWEEN THE BRUSHES 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, Feb. 4, at The Art Room, 709 Main St., Windermere. Children ages kindergarten and older can paint
an acrylic painting of Choc & Chip — two friendly chocolatechip cookies. Cost is $35 and reservations are required. (407) 909-1869.
CHRISTI BICHAY The (Winter Garden Police Department doesn’t) play! They get that helicopter up quick to catch the lawbreaker! Makes me feel like I live in one of the most safest towns there is. Shout out to all of our men and women in uniform. We definitely have one of the best police departments.
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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2017
Jeff Rupert
SPELLING BEE
WINDERMERE OBSERVER
Scott Wilson
The Peter & Will Anderson Trio
LIVEJAZZCONCERT Saturday | Feb 4, 2017 | 7 pm
Ocoee High School Auditorium | 1925 Ocoee Crown Point Pky
The Peter & Will Anderson Trio UF Gator Jazz Band, directed by Scott Wilson The Flying Horse Big Band aka The UCF Jazz Ensemble, directed by Jeff Rupert Ocoee High School Jazz Band, directed by Bernie Hendricks
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until after she finished her flips that she realized her mistake. “I forgot to put my bloomers on,” she said. RICKY CONA
Cona was the new kid in school and forgot to bring his permission slip for the upcoming sixth-grade field trip to Universal Orlando. “(My teacher) reamed me out in front of the class and refused to let me go,” he said. As if that wasn’t embarrassing enough, when Cona’s mother, who was also a teacher, heard about the incident, she stormed into the classroom to have words with Cona’s teacher. “I could hear them arguing about it,” he said. Even though his teacher changed her stance, Cona’s mother still kept him home on the day of the field trip. “My mom said that she wasn’t going to let me go with that lady,” he said. KAYLA ALVAREZ
Alvarez still hasn’t forgotten her middle-school ketchup incident. She was walking out of the library, head held high because she was rocking a pair of white pants and her crush was nearby. What she didn’t notice was the small ketchup packet in the middle of the floor. “I stepped right on the ketchup packet and slipped right on my beautiful white pants with everyone looking at me,” Alvarez said. She had to endure the rest of the day with a giant, red ketchup stain on her backside. KIT CLETO
In eighth grade, Cleto had a girlfriend. They had been going out for almost three months — a lifetime in middle-school years. They bonded over their love of the TV show “Charmed,” he said. But it came to a dramatic end during a choir competition. While waiting for the competition to start, three of his girlfriend’s friends approached him. “They told me, ‘She needs to talk to you. You haven’t called her in a week, so you’re not going out anymore,’” Cleto said. “(My girlfriend) just stood there staring lasers at me.” Everyone in the choir watched the exchange. “It was like TMZ for a month,” Cleto said. Contact Brittany Gaines at bgaines@orangeobserver.com.
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Like many other seventh-graders, Gober had a major crush. “I was deeply in love with one of the popular, cute, athletic guys in school,” she said. But her secret didn’t stay secret for very long. On Valentine’s Day, everyone was buzzing with excitement as candy grams were delivered throughout the day. What Gober didn’t know was that her best friend had ordered a candy gram to be delivered to that secret crush. The label said, “From Paige.” It was delivered to the classroom with everyone watching. Gober was mortified. “I suffered many years of embarrassment from that,” she said.
WHEN: Feb. 3 to 26 WHERE: Garden Theatre, 160 W. Plant St., Winter Garden SHOWTIMES: 8 p.m. Thursdays through Saturdays; 2 p.m. Sundays. There also will be two adult-only (ages 18 and older) performances at 11 p.m. Feb. 18 and 25. TICKETS: $33 for adults and $29 for seniors and students. For tickets, visit gardentheatre.org or call (407) 877-4736.
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“All the characters are so relatable, because everyone has gone through adolescence,” said actor Ricky Cona. All the actors are adults playing tweens, which only adds to the comedy of the show. “It takes a lot of energy to play such goofy characters,” said Kit Cleto. The show, which runs from Feb. 3 to 26 at the Garden Theatre, follows the story of six middleschoolers as they compete in the county spelling bee and all the woes and drama that come with it. “It takes you back to that time when we all felt that way,” said director Kenny Howard. But the actors all have their own memories of middle school — including some very embarrassing moments.
In middle school, Simerly was a cheerleader. But there’s one incident she will never forget. It was during a basketball game. The cheerleaders were performing their routine, and Simerly prepared to do her tumbling pass across the gym floor. It wasn’t
The All New
Broadway Style Shows
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 7
SAVANNAH SIMERLY 229327
students $5 adults $10
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8
WINDERMERE OBSERVER
OrangeObserver.com
Windermere Wine and Dine enjoyed record-breaking year
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9
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2017
AAA Travel invites you to
EXPERIENCE RIVER CRUISING Discover river cruising as it was meant to be, with AmaWaterways’ award-winning, first-class amenities, and ports of call in Europe, Asia and Africa. Plus, learn about exclusive AAA Member Benefits that can add value to your trip and you won’t find or get anywhere else. Robert and Sandy Nawrot, Craig and Kathy Lopus and Shelly and Jad Denmark had a great time sipping and socializing.
T
229715
he fourth annual Windermere Wine and Dine had record turnout Saturday, Jan. 28, with about 800 guests perusing booths from more than 20 restaurants serving their signature dishes. The sold-out event featured live music, wine and food samples, a silent auction and more. This year’s funds will benefit the Windermere Elementary Mustang Education Fund, the Windermere Historic Preservation Board, the Windermere Tree Board, the Windermere Parks and Recreation Board and the Windermere Police Foundation. — DANIELLE HENDRIX
Dexter Richardson of Dexters Restaurants shows off a bottle of wine.
ONLINE See more photos at
OrangeObserver.com Leah Larweth, Michele Coughlin, Susan Curtis and Amy Jordan bundled up for the cool weather.
Tavistock invites you to attend a Community Engagement Workshop to discuss potential development plans for the northwest corner of Apopka Vineland Road and Conroy Windermere Road. These workshops are open to the public.
LO C AT I O N :
Chain of Lakes Middle School 8700 Conroy Windermere Rd, Orlando, FL 32835
WHEN:
January 30 • February 1 • February 3 6:00pm – 7:30pm
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229392
For more information, please contact: Heather Isaacs (407) 888-6514
WINDERMERE OBSERVER
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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2017
For all your tax, accounting and payroll needs. Individuals, Partnerships, Corporations, and LLC.
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FEBRUARY 2, 2017
HIGH
PERSEVERANCE & PIGSKIN
SPORTS
Eighth-grader Eileen Sweeney emerges as a leader on Holy Family Catholic School’s girls soccer team. Page 12
5
David N. Jester Photography
1
Competitive cheerleading teams from Dr. Phillips and Olympia placed third and fourth, respectively, in the Class 2A Small Varsity division at the 2017 FHSAA Competitive Cheerleading State Championships Jan. 29.
2
The championship game of the District 5A-4 boys soccer tournament Jan. 27 pitted rivals Olympia and West Orange against one another. West Orange topped Olympia 4-1 to earn home-field advantage in the opening round of the state playoffs Feb. 1.
Clockwise from top left: Dave Stevens, who was born without legs and who was “drafted” by the WWAFT as a non-military recruit to help motivate the veterans, listens intently to the National Anthem. | The Wounded Warrior team drew up a specialized play for a teammate in a wheelchair that went for a big gain. | Richard Brown of the prosthetic team is well-defended by members of the WWAFT. | Also participating in the festivities was a team of Central Floridians with prosthetic limbs. | Michael Cain of the Wounded Warrior Amputee Football Team sang the National Anthem.
3
The Dr. Phillips boys basketball team scored a quality win Jan. 25, defeating Apopka 65-48. Daniel Love had a game-high 24 points, making six of his nine 3-pointer attempts, and Je’Quan Burton stuffed the stat sheet with three steals, 15 points, two assists and two rebounds.
The Wounded Warrior Amputee Football Team played an exhibition game of flag football at Dr. Phillips High last week, showcasing the perseverance of veterans wounded in combat. STEVEN RYZEWSKI SENIOR SPORTS EDITOR
T
DR. PHILLIPS
he 2017 NFL Pro Bowl came to Orlando last weekend and has widely been regarded as a success. What many may not know is that two days before the sports heroes of gridiron took the field at Camping World Stadium, a different brand of heroes
took the field at Dr. Phillips High. The Wounded Warrior Amputee Football Team played a flag football game Jan. 27 against a combination of two teams: the NFL Alumni, which also included local media personalities, and a team of Central Florida residents with prosthetic limbs. The WWAFT won the lighthearted game 35-7 — much to the
Photos by Steven Ryszewski
4
The Olympia boys basketball team (1013) topped Ocoee Jan. 26, 52-46. The Titans were led in scoring by Markel Hudson (11 points) and Mykarri Hodges (11 points).
SEE TEAM PAGE 12
Offseason works pays off for DP girls wrestling The Panthers won their first Metro Conference meet for girls wrestling Jan. 13 and now have their sights set on the state meet Feb. 10. STEVEN RYZEWSKI SENIOR SPORTS EDITOR DR. PHILLIPS You could say plac-
ing third out of 75 teams last year at the Florida Girls Wrestling State Championships whet the appetite of the Dr. Phillips Panthers.
And you would be right. “Last year, we had a big influx (of wrestlers) — we had really good success and the girls wanted to start wrestling year-round,” Panthers coach Kirwyn Adderley said. So, Adderley, who coached the team under previous head coach
John Miller and now coaches alongside new head coach Eric Abbey, took charge of an offseason program. That program involved some training at the Florida Jets’ facility in Oviedo, as well as competing in some tournaments with national fields — all of which helped to grow the girls’
knowledge and understanding of the sport, Adderley said. The results have been tangible, too. In addition to some other impressive performances this season, the Panthers won the Metro Conference Championship Jan. 13 at East River High in east Orange County. Dr. Phillips won the event and also recorded five SEE PANTHERS PAGE 12
5
Congrats to our Observer Preps Athlete of the Week — West Orange girls soccer standout Emma Honis. Honis scored the deciding goal of the District 5A-4 Semifinal match Jan. 20 against Olympia in overtime. For more, visit ObserverPreps. com.
12
SPORTS SPOTLIGHT
WINDERMERE OBSERVER
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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2017
Panthers aim to contend
SPONSORED BY SHANNON TILL STATE FARM IN FOWLER GROVES
Eileen Sweeney In addition to being an exceptional student and classmate at Holy Family Catholic School, Eileen Sweeney is a standout player for the Lions’ girls soccer team (2-3). On a young team loaded with sixth-graders, Sweeney — an eighth-grader — has seven goals this season, in addition to being a strong player for her club team.
How do you think this season has gone for the team? It’s going pretty well. What I’m trying to do is make the most of it and do it with my friends and have fun — but also teach the younger girls what they’re supposed to do. What do you like about playing for your school, as opposed to playing for your club team? There’s not as much pressure when you a mistake, and I find it more fun to be with your friends you go to school with. Which game are you most proud of so far this season? In every game, we’ve improved along the way. I think our last game was the best, because we played St. Charles and the whole team worked together, so we ended up winning.
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 11
champions and 11 total top-four placers across all weight classes. “It’s significant, one, because it is the first one ever for women,” Adderley said of the victory. “Other people can win it, but no one else can be the first.” First-place finishers at Metros for Dr. Phillips included freshman Jessica Corredor (97 pounds), sophomore Remy Vargas (128 pounds), senior Valeria Herrera (154 pounds), sophomore Trinity Rios (162 pounds) and sophomore Shedeline Ulysse (197 pounds). Remy Hellinger, Jennifer Gabriel and Shania Gowan earned runnerup finishes in their respective weight classes; Karoline Ortiz and Alexa Phillips scored third-
THE BASICS SCHOOL: Holy Family Catholic School GRADE: Eighth AGE: 13 POSITION: Forward CLUB TEAM: Florida Rush
far ahead yet, but maybe something to do with sports. What do you think you have to improve in order to play in high school next year? I think I have to improve my shots on goal, because I’m normally a defender for my club team but when I play for my school team I have to be able to play multiple positions.
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 11
pleasure of the crowd — and extended its winning-streak to 16 games. The real victory of the program, though, continues to be the impact the team has had on someone such as Kelly Smith, a lifelong Central Floridian who lives nearby in the Champion’s Gate area. Smith served in the U.S. Navy and lost an arm during the final of her 11 tours in Iraq and Afghanistan. “I started with (the team) about two-and-a-half years ago,” Smith said. “I wasn’t sure about it at all, but I came out and played, and I’ve been part of the team (ever) since. I like being able to come out here and just forget about everything else and just play the game.” Smith also appreciates the camaraderie she feels from the team full of former service members who were injured during that service to the country. Many are either missing a limb or have a prosthetic limb. At the heart of the mission of the WWAFT is its ability to inspire: whether it be to inspire the fans in the stands at how well — and how hard — the team plays, or to inspire other veter-
— STEVEN RYZEWSKI
What’s the best advice you’ve gotten about soccer? “Do it until it’s not fun anymore.” My mom said that because it’s not worth doing if you’re not willing to put in the work. What do you enjoy about playing soccer? I like being able to not be confined to one place, to be able to go wherever you want. Do you have a favorite team or player you like to watch? I enjoy watching Julie Johnson — she’s a center-back for the United States Women’s National Team.
What do you think you’d like to do for a career when you grow up? I haven’t really thought that
Contact Steven Ryzewski at sryzewski@orangeobserver.com.
BOYS WRESTLING CALENDAR HEATS UP While the girls team at Dr. Phillips is certainly making a name for itself, boys wrestling teams at Olympia and Dr. Phillips have the thick of their schedule awaiting them in the coming weeks. FEB. 2 — Dual: Dr. Phillips at Olympia, 5 p.m. FEB. 8 — Metro West Conference Meet at Apopka FEB. 17 — District 3A-2 Meet at West Orange FEB. 24-25 — Region 3A-1 Meet at Flagler Palm Coast MARCH 3-4 — FHSAA Wrestling State Championships at Silver Spurs Arena (Kissimmee)
Team plays to inspire
What is your favorite thing to do when you’re not playing soccer or doing schoolwork? I like spending time with my family.
What are your favorite subjects in school? I enjoy math and science.
place finishes. Jennifer Charles also earned a fourth-place finish. Totaling 219 points, the Panthers easily topped runner-up University High’s 73 points. Since Metros, Dr. Phillips has defeated Liberty in a dual meet and placed second in a tournament at Cypress Creek. Now, the Panthers have their attention turned toward the state meet at Liberty High Feb. 10 — and surpassing their thirdplace finish from a season ago. “We need to be healthy,” Adderley said. “We got a couple weeks to get healthy. If we wrestle like we’ve been wrestling all year, we’ll be in the hunt.”
HOW TO HELP To donate to the Wounded Warrior Amputee Football Team, or to learn more about the organization and its upcoming games, visit woundedwarrioramputeefootballteam.org or facebook.com/WWAFTeam.
ans who may be dealing with after-effects of life in a war zone. Thus, one of the mottos on the WWAFT website: “The loss of a limb or limbs does not mean the end of an athletic career.” Chris Visser, who helps coordinate the games and acts as a marketing liaison, said hardly a game goes by where the team doesn’t serve as a source of hope for a local veteran who could be dealing with PTSD, for instance. That big-picture purpose is why Dr. Phillips High Athletic Director Steve McHale, who served in the U.S. Marines before his career in education, was so excited to host the game on campus. “It’s near and dear to my heart — I served with many people just like this who unfortunately are affected like this,” he said. “It
hits close to home. We’re ecstatic (to host the game). It was easy to say yes.” Those in attendance got to see ESPN personality Kenny Mayne, a well-known Wounded Warrior booster and former collegiate quarterback, whip the ball around at quarterback for the WWAFT. As for the NFL Alumni team, former pros such as Tom McManus, William Floyd, Nick Collins and Brian Travis all played and signed autographs for fans. Local sports radio personality Jerry O’Neill emceed the event with a mix of play-by-play and lighthearted color commentary. Following the local game, the team played a game Feb. 1 in Houston — where the Super Bowl will take place Feb. 5. “It’s heartwarming that people (show) that kind of support,” Smith said of the celebrities and former pros who came out for last week’s game. Of course, anyone suiting up against the WWAFT may not know it yet, but against the undefeated team of Wounded Warriors, they’ll be the underdogs. Contact Steven Ryzewski at sryzewski@orangeobserver.com.
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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2017
Destination:
College athletics More than 20 local high school seniors made their dreams of competing as college athletes a little more real this week, signing National Letters of Intent on National Signing Day. SENIOR SPORTS EDITOR
C
ountless hours of practice and hard work have paid off for a number of senior varsity athletes in Southwest Orange County in the form of college scholarships — an accomplishment they celebrated as part of National Signing Day festivities Feb. 1. National Signing Day is most readily associated with football, though local schools often stage ceremonies on campus to recognize all of their athletes who will represent the school and the community at the next level — including those who may have signed during the fall’s Early Signing Period. And although the signings of Dr. Phillips football standouts Robert Porcher (Virginia Tech) and Nick Smith (Florida) are among the most high-profile of the signings that took place Wednesday, each and every signing constitutes a milestone moment in the lives of our young men and women. Editor’s note: Windermere Prep’s signing ceremony is scheduled for Feb. 3.
THE SIGNEES DR. PHILLIPS Henry Caldwell — Mercyhurst University (Pa.), football Sydney Capers — Augustana University (S.D.), football D.J. Charles — Campbell University (N.C.), football Gregna Fuentes — Polk State, women’s volleyball Albert Gilreath — Mercyhurst University (Pa.), football Cesar Gonzalez — UWF, men’s soccer Emare Hogan — Southern Illinois, football Robert Porcher — Virginia Tech, football Fabiola Ribas — USF, women’s volleyball Nick Smith — Florida, football Marvin Washington — UConn, football
OLYMPIA NEW SIGNEES Alex Aken — Palm Beach Atlantic, men’s lacrosse Justin Beecher — Webber International, men’s volleyball Spencer Clark — Emerson College (Ma.), men’s lacrosse James Green — Tennessee State, football Taylor Hair — Anderson University (S.C.), women’s basketball Marcela Herrera — Bucknell University (Pa.), women’s water polo Samantha Hilsee — Emery University (Ga.), women’s soccer Khalif Hollis — Benedict College (S.C.), football Riley Reagan — Stetson University, women’s lacrosse Nick Scaglione — Indiana Wesleyan University, football Marissa Sidwell — Stetson University, softball Abigail Thompson — Polk State, softball FALL SIGNEES Delaney Carey, Rutgers (swimming); Morgan Given, UMass Lowell (volleyball); Sofia Bernard, West Virginia (swimming); Tatiana Barnes, Merrimack (lacrosse)
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VIRGINIA MAE (LUCAS) FILER DIED JAN. 16, 2017.
HELEN LUCILLE POWELL DIED WEDNESDAY, JAN. 25, 2017.
Helen Lucille Powell, of Winter Garden, Florida, went home to her Savior on Wednesday, Jan. 25, 2017. Born July 19, 1919, in Hazelhurst, Georgia, Helen moved to Winter Garden as a young girl. She was a faithful woman of God and a loving wife, mother, grandmother and friend. She was married on July 29, 1939, to her devoted husband, Ewell Buford Powell. A member of West Orange Park Community Church, she lived and worked for the Lord her whole life. Helen was cherished by her family, church family and a blessing to anyone she came in contact with. She passed on a love of God that would carry through the generations to come. Helen was preceded in death by her husband, Ewell; and seven of her siblings. She is survived by her siblings, Lawrence (Maxine) Sanders; Wesley (Nancy) Sanders; Lorene Jones; her children, Bernard, of Winter Garden, Florida; Richard (Shirley), of Lutz, Florida; Priscilla, of Winter Garden, Florida; Patricia, of Winter Garden, Florida; Buford (Bonnie), of Orlando, Florida; Kiturah (Donnie), of Ft. Payne, Alabama; 21 grandchildren; 54 great-grandchildren; and 17 great-great-grandchildren. She was laid to rest at Woodlawn Memorial Cemetery on Jan. 29, 2017.
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EPISCOPAL
Virginia Mae (Lucas) Filer was born May 1, 1927, in Erie, Pennsylvania. She passed, peacefully, on Monday, Jan. 16, 2017, at Health Central Park in Winter Garden, Florida, after an extended illness. Virginia was 89. Virginia had a caring heart, loved to attend parties, and if there was a baby on the way, she had a handmade blanket; if there was a wedding on the horizon, she had a gift; and she made a point to acknowledge holidays and, especially, family birthdays and anniversaries. Once she was your friend, she was loyal to you for life. Virginia loved to cook and bake, and a party wasn’t complete without a cheese and relish tray. Recently, her favorite pastimes that brought her joy were crafting, ice cream socials and trivia games presented by the Recreational Therapy Department at Health Central Park. She was preceded in death by her husband, Howard; two brothers; a sister; and her sonin-law, Joseph Hembrooke.
She is survived by her daughter, Chesta Hembrooke, of Ocoee; sister, Pauline (Clifford D.) Hale, of Bonita Springs; and many other family members and friends. A memorial reception will take place at 1 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 11, 2017, at Quest Church (formerly St. Paul’s Presbyterian), Building 100. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Health Central Park’s Recreational Therapy Department. Checks should be made to HCP Rec. Therapy, 411 N. Dillard St., Winter Garden, FL 34787-2816. Arrangements have been entrusted to Baldwin-Fairchild Winter Garden. Condolences may be offered at baldwinfairchild.com.
SR. MASTER SGT. FRANKLIN “FRANK” TOWNSEND DIED THURSDAY, JAN. 26, 2017.
Sr. Master Sgt. Franklin “Frank” Townsend died peacefully at his home, surrounded by friends and family, on Jan. 26, 2017, in Apopka, Florida, at the age of 83, after a long battle with Parkinson’s disease. Frank is survived by his wife of 34 years, Ann; sons John, Charles, Robert and Carl; brother, Tom, of Atlanta, Georgia; six grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and two great-great grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents, Susie and P.C. Townsend; siblings Gene, Betty, Kathleen, Maxine and Annie; granddaughter, Bobi Sue; and daughter, Susan Gayle Murray. Frank was born on Dec. 24, 1933, in Jasper, Alabama. He retired from the Air Force after serving 25 years and married Ann upon his return from Korea in 1953. Frank began work and eventually retired from the Orange County Sheriff’s Office as a corrections officer. During this time, the couple welcomed into their home five children, who remember
him as an honorable and fair father who encouraged them to do what was right. Frank was an accomplished airplane and automobile mechanic. He was a dedicated individual who loved boating and was passionate about fishing. He was an active and dedicated lifetime member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 4305. A funeral was held on Tuesday, Jan. 31, 2017, at Woodlawn Memorial Park & Funeral Home, in Gotha, Florida. Chaplain Joe Williams officiated. Donations may be made in Frank’s name to Hospice of the Comforter, and the family would like to thank caretakers Barb and Sammy for their care and dedication to keep Frank comfortable at home during his final days.
CHURCH DIRECTORY
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
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Advertise your Services or Events on this page weekly.
This page appears weekly in the Windermere Observer and online at orangeobserver.com.
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WEST ORANGE OBITUARIES
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FORECAST
W EAT HER
I LOVE WEST ORANGE
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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2017
SUNRISE / SUNSET
THURSDAY, FEB. 2
High: 76 Low: 53 Chance of rain: 10%
FRIDAY, FEB. 3 High: 78 Low: 53 Chance of rain: 10%
Sunrise Sunset
Thursday, Feb. 2
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6:06p
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MOON PHASES
SATURDAY, FEB. 4 Feb. 10 Full
High: 76 Low: 54 Chance of rain: 10% Lakes of Windermere resident Pam Abbruzzese took this photo outside of Lifebridge Church during the foggy morning Wednesday, Jan. 25.
The Windermere Observer is hosting this weekly contest, and winners will have their photograph featured and receive a $20 prize. To enter, email your photo, along with your name, city and a caption, to amyq@orangeobserver.com; put “I Love West Orange” in the subject line. Please include your mailing address to receive your prize.
Feb. 3 First
Feb. 26 New
RAINFALL Tuesday, Jan. 24
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High: 80 Low: 56 Chance of rain: 10%
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See other winning photos at OrangeObserver.com
YEAR TO DATE:
JAN. TO DATE:
2017 2.08 in.
2017 2.08 in.
2016 4.01 in.
2016 4.01 in.
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ONLINE
Feb. 18 Last
CROSSWORD
A G-OO-D PUZZLE by Timothy B. Parker
108 Deluxe sound system or panoramic roof 109 Jack’s adversary in a fairy tale 111 “You may ___ the bride” 113 Bert Bobbsey’s twin 114 Soda parlor order, sometimes 117 Gullibility 119 Richard of “Ocean’s 11” 120 Element’s combining power 121 Roll variety 122 Lover of Aphrodite 123 Musical partner of Lake and Palmer 124 Licorice sources
DOWN
1 Superlawyer Gerry, and Doug’s friend in “The King of Queens” 2 Narcotic of an Eric Clapton song 3 About 72 degrees 4 “___ in the Family” 5 Exploited worker 6 Defeats, but barely 7 Band’s play date 8 Seth’s son 9 “Three” of classic comedy shorts 10 Word with “special” 11 Divests of weapons 12 NBA foul callers 13 Suffix with “near” or “fair” 14 Word with “common” or “horse” 15 Hoof sounds 16 “A Lesson From ___” ©2017 Universal Uclick (Fugard) 30 Quote a passage 53 Festival of Lights observer mance 17 Patch, as socks ACROSS 32 Quid pro quo, in the U.K. 54 Often-repeated abbr. 80 Pitching stat 20 Stimulating drink 1 Prepare a rough surface for 34 Workout facility 56 Down in the dumps 82 Utter 22 Loud, harsh cry from a painting 35 Play break in grade school 58 Not play in a game 83 Kitchen fat kennel 7 A wave or thumbs-up, e.g. 36 Foe in war 60 Edible mushroom 84 Museum attraction, often 24 Demonstrating good 14 Bait-and-switch is a clas38 Serve with a summons 62 Bakery item of a nursery 85 School support grp. posture sic one 40 Eldridge Cleaver’s “Soul rhyme 87 Paving stone 27 Feature of many court 18 Combined, as resources on ___” 66 Before, before a word 89 Greek wine buildings 19 Utters monotonously 41 “___ fidelis” (Marine Corps 67 Instrument with finger 92 Market maneuverer 31 Give official authority to 20 Pride of the ball motto) holes 93 Thrills for daredevils 33 Sullen look 21 Study of the environment 43 Margarine holders 69 Bird’s perch 96 Explosive cable network? 35 Monetary unit of 23 “Hi!” between 12 p.m. and 44 Belittle or diminish 70 Kind of domain 97 Going up, as a mountain Cambodia 6 p.m. 48 One of a pocketful of 72 “For shame!” to a boy 100 Fastener in construction 37 “Sure thing” 25 “Apocalypse Now” setting, flowers king? 101 Native-born Israelis 39 “60 Minutes” broadcaster informally 49 Child seekers? 73 Maternity ward VIPs 104 Couple thousand pounds 42 Type of whiskey or bread 26 Third-quarter tide 50 Guy’s mate 76 Salve targets 105 Early whirlybird 44 Hoover and others 28 Emulates a hawk 51 Sounds from a pigeon 77 Got away from 107 Big name in small 45 Play division 29 Used an abrasive tool coop 79 Finishes, as a perforconstruction projects
46 Willingness to work well with others 47 Open sporting competition 50 Zest or relish 52 Dele undoers 53 Playful 55 Not this 56 Type of income 57 J.J. Abrams TV drama 58 Total in grade school 59 “Last one ___ a rotten egg!” 60 Inn relative 61 Lemon relative 63 Council site in the 1500s 64 128 cubic feet of wood 65 Common brewed beverage 68 37-Down indicator 71 Nose part 74 Bickerer in the “Iliad” 75 Nonconformist of the ‘60s 78 Pesticide banned by the EPA 81 Cleo’s attacker 84 Tiny mound builders 85 Buddy 86 High school math subject 88 Convention lengthener? 90 Discotheque light 91 Incredibly dumb 92 Some heavy-duty artillery pieces 94 Beneficiary 95 Heavy marijuana users, slangily 97 Muffle, per Archie Bunker 98 Freighter for fossil fuel transporting 99 Cheshire Cat’s prominent feature 101 Wild animal’s clue for a hunter 102 Make up (for) 103 Deck posts 106 Honshu port 108 Ship in “Jaws” 109 Metric mass unit 110 Folded fast food offering 112 City of central China (var.) 115 Day before the big day 116 Perfect score, in some events 118 Seven on a grandfather clock
CRYPTOQUIZ Each of the following cryptograms is a clue to the identity of a silent screen star. Using the hints E=O and T=R, decipher the clues to name the actor or actress.
1. J U R R Q
2. K E B C E D 3. X Z Q M M U T 4. N E B U F D 5. S T A K This silent screen star became “The It Girl” after a stellar performance:
SUDOKU
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3
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WINDERMERE OBSERVER
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This week’s Cryptoquiz answers
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Processin owner & lien holder & theft search. Includes: Title history report, legal mailed to all parties. Notice of claim of lien certificate agency will be notified. If address changed local law enforcement Auction at law office. date. Newspaper advertising for auction day issued by private tag agency, same be will title clean If lien is not satisfied, service, fast clean titles. or email. of your repair MV License by fax Just send us your work order, copy is issued. balance due when clean title Down payment of $200 and remaining
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This week’s Crossword answers
Clara Bow Nov 19 (Easy, difficulty rating 0.40) This week’s Sudoku answers
7
3 5 2 6 4 8 9 1
8 6 1
5 7
9 2 4 1 1
9 2 4 3
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2017
This week’s Crossword answers
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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2017
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229837
BRACELETS AND CHARMS
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2017
HOUSE + HOME
COPPER COIL CONUNDRUM A manufacturing design with Lennox-brand AC units has caused new homeowners much grief as they fork over hundreds of dollars for unexpected repair expenses. GABBY BAQUERO STAFF WRITER
H
ORANGE COUNTY
omeowners living in newly constructed communities with Lennox air-conditioning units installed have reluctantly spent hundreds to thousands of dollars replacing faulty evaporator coil systems. And they’re not happy. After two to four years, the AC units tend to freeze up or stop blowing cold air. It is believed the troublesome coil systems malfunction due to poor manufacturing. While Lennox uses uncoated copper tubing inside its systems, most AC companies use aluminum coils, said Terry Strickland, the owner of Polar Express Air Conditioning & Heating LLC. “Everybody else is going to full aluminum coils,” Strickland said. “Lennox is still the only one using the copper aluminum, and it’s not holding up. The copper we’re using today is so much thinner than it’s ever been because, again, everybody’s trying to save money.” As someone who spends his time fixing AC units regularly, he’s seen several homeowners with Lennox-brand units experience this same issue. Last year, he estimates he made about 12 to 15 replacements, mostly in newly built homes in Winter Garden and Windermere. A class-action lawsuit from 2015 over the issue has resulted in payouts for some homeowners who fell victim to unexpected repair expenses. Homeowners eli
“Lennox is still the only one using the copper aluminum, and it’s not holding up. The copper we’re using today is so much thinner than it’s ever been because, again, everybody’s trying to save money.” — Terry Strickland, owner of Polar Express Air Conditioning & Heating LLC
CONTINUED ON PAGE 19
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CONTINUED FROM PAGE 18
gible to join the class-action lawsuit were told they could get up $550 in reimbursement. However, Lennox still denies all the claims of the lawsuit and states it does not believe the copper tubing was related to the failures. And although Strickland said Lennox plans to move to aluminum coils, that transition hasn’t taken place. “The coils that I pick up are still the same coils they’re having problems with, and the same coils I’m putting in are the same coils they’re having problems with,” he said. “And all they’re doing is trying to Band-Aid it until it’s out of warranty.” Strickland said he’s often had to go back and replace a homeowner’s coil a second time. Generally, the lifespan of any AC unit, depending on the user’s maintenance, is 12 to 15 years. As a result, Strickland said he’s quit purchasing and selling AC units from any brands Lennox owns. Tod Young, a homeowner in Windermere Trails who closed on his home December 2013, had to spend $1,400 to replace his coil system after only two years. He was surprised to have his AC unit malfunction so quickly. “It’s a new house ... so you would expect that the AC unit would not clock out within the first two years, and you’d have to spend $1,200-plus to have it replaced,” Young said. Young’s AC unit started failing after the class-action lawsuit already had been settled, so he had to pay for the expenses
AC MAINTENANCE n Replace the filter. Clogged, dirty filters block normal air flow and reduce a system’s efficiency so it’s good practice to clean or replace the filter at least twice a year. n Clean the coils. An evaporator coil collects dirt, which reduces air flow. Have a professional clean the coil system every year. n Clean the vents. Routine dusting several times a year is necessary. You could also have an AC professional do a thorough, professional cleaning. n Check the freon levels. If you have an older model, it’s a good idea to have a professional come in and check for any leaks with the freon coolant. n Do not block the condensing unit. The part of your air conditioner that draws air into the system needs to be uncovered.
out of pocket. He’s noticed there have been several AC repair trucks all over his community, which was built by Meritage Homes, and much discussion about the same AC issue on the social-media website NextDoor. “Any day, you can drive through our community and
Keene’s Pointe home sells for $3.7 million
REAL ESTATE
The cost of coils you’ll see either Armstrong Air Conditioning or other AC repair companies in people’s driveway, daily,” Young added. “And they’re all having the same issue.” Michael Manganiello, who lives in a town house in Wickham Park, paid $800 to have his AC coil system replaced. His 4-year-old AC unit stopped working last August. He couldn’t believe his unit would malfunction so quickly either, because the previous homeowners only resided in the home for six months each year, and he had routine AC maintenance done annually. “I’m not one of those notorious AC users who constantly have it on,” Manganiello said. “When I’m not home, I set it to 78 or 79 degrees, and when I’m home, I leave it at 77. ... I shouldn’t have any AC problems, especially when the unit is less than four years old.” A few months later, after getting the coil system replaced, he noticed an advisory on his neighborhood’s website informing residents that many people in the community had experienced the same AC issue and there was a class-action lawsuit. The experience has left Manganiello wary of Lennox units. “I definitely won’t purchase anything related to Lennox in the future,” Manganiello said. Lennox officials did not return repeated messages seeking comment.
A
home in the Keene’s Pointe community near Windermere topped all West Orange-area residential real-estate transactions from Jan. 13 to 19. The home at 9343 Tibet Pointe Circled, Windermere, sold Jan. 13, for $3.7 million. Built in 2004, it has eight bedrooms, eight baths, two half-baths, a pool and 8,362 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $442.48.
DR. PHILLIPS BAY HARBOUR AT PHILLIPS LANDING
B L U E S K Y R E A LT Y G R O U P
Multi-Lingual Offices
SNAPSHOT
The home at 9073 Heritage Bay Circle, Orlando, sold Jan. 18, for $545,000. Built in 2001, it has six bedrooms, five baths and 3,903 square feet. The price per square foot is $139.64.
Single Family Home in Davenport 3 Bed/ 2 Bath/ 1,979 Sq Ft Price Recently Reduced to $319,000 MLS#: S4840837
The home at 13914 Florigold Drive, Windermere, sold Jan. 19, for $352,500. Built in 2004, it has three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 2,016 square feet. The price per square foot is $174.85. 720 Celebration A
The home at 10125 Culpepper Court, Orlando, sold Jan. 13, for $399,000. Built in 1988, it has four bedrooms, two baths, a Celebration ENCLAVE WINDERMERE pool and 2,403 square feet. The Avenue, 720 Celebration Suite OF 100, Facebook.com/Cen Celebration FL 34747 The home at 11781 Hampstead price per square foot is $166.04.
Multi-Lingu
Facebook.com/Century21Celebration
CONTINUED ON PAGE 23 The home at 10069 Brandon Multi-Lingual Offices Offices in Celebra
720 Celebration Ave # 21 Celebration
Offices in Celebration, Windermere and Davenport
Offered at: $249,000
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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
789 Celebration Ave Celebration
MLS # S4816524 5 bed949 3 bath 3051 sq ft Westpark 3 car garage
MLS # S4812883 2 bed 2 bath 1211 sq ft 1209 End unit Water St condo
Offered at: $415,000
Offered at: $ 579,000
Offered at: $209,000
MLS # S4815324 3 bed 3.5 bath 3100 sq ft
Downey Place Townhouse with 2 car garage Celebration
# 207 Celebration
MLS # G4812461 3 bed, 2 bath, 1897 sq ft Fannie Mae Homepath Property
MLS # S4815468 3 bed 2 bath 1460 sq f Elevator building with 1 car garage Offered at: $296,000
316 Charleston Pl Celebration
908 Waterside Dr Celebration
908 Waterside Dr Celebration
Offered at: $409,000
MLS # S4815137 3 bed 2.5 bath 1684 sq ft 2 car garage
Facebook.com/Century21Celebration Twitter: https://twitter.com/C21BlueSkyFL Offered at: $415,000
Offered at: $299,900
789 Cele Cele
MLS # S4816524 5 bed 3 bath 3051 sq ft 3 car garage
MLS # 2 bed 2 b End unit W
Offered at: $ 579,000
Offered a
Office
1400 Celebration Ave # 406 Celebration
764 Celebration Ave, #2202 Celebration
206 Norfolk Pl Celebration
754 Siena Palm Dr # 101 Celebration
1109 Ashbee Ln Celebration
MLS # S4810230
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
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
Offered at: $429,900
Offered at: $429,999
Offered at: $235,000
We’re e for o
Offered at: $499,000
ED Celebration Ave # 406 1400 C DU Celebration
764 Celebration Ave, #2202 Celebration
206 Norfolk Pl Celebration
754 Siena Cele
MLS # S4810230
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
MLS # 2 bed 2 b Fully fur 1 car
2 bed 2 bath, 1345 sq ft 1 car detached garage
267 Goldenrain Dr, #30-267 Celebration
1211 Stonecutter Dr # 502 Celebration - Artisan Club
MLS # S4809113 3 bed 2.5 bath 2091 sq ft condo. 2 car garage
MLS # S4724783 3 bed 3 bath 1736 sq ft 5th floor condo. 1 car garage
MLS # O5325911 2 bed 2 bath 1435 sq ft 4th floor condo with balcony
MLS # S4726678 2 bed 2 bath 1196 sq ft First floor condo. 1 car garage
Offered at: $275,000
Offered at: $329,000
Offered at: $219,900
Offered at: $275,000
604 Mulberry Ave # 1101 1410 Celebration Ave # 407 CelebrationOffered Celebration Offered at: $219,900
1102 Wilde Dr – Celebration
at: $429,900 MLS # S4727247
Offered at: $429,999
4 bed 3.5 bath, 3028 sq ft Lowest priced SFH in Celebration with a garage apartment Offered at: $529,000
Ca
Offered a
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6001 Caymus Loop
11845 Waterstone Loop Dr Single Family Home in Windermere 4 Bed/ 3.5 Bath/ 3,538 Sq Ft Offered at $879,900 MLS#: S4833077
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910 Spring Park St # 202 Celebration
7798 Winter Garden Vineland Road #116 Windermere, Fl 34786
949 Westpark # 207 Celebration
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New Windermere office in the ED UC Lakeside RVillage Shopping Center: D E
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MLS # S4814275 2 bed 2.5 bath 1429 sq Town Center Condo
407.566.0555
407.566.0555
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Single Family Home in Windermere 4 Bed/ 3.5 Bath/ 2,626 Sq Ft Offered at $359,500 MLS#: S4837497
HORIZON WEST EDEN ISLE
SAND LAKE POINT
Offered at: $219,900
1436 Pro Shop Court
Circle, Orlando, sold Jan. 18, for $388,000. Built in 1993, it has four bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 2,282 square feet. The price per square foot is $170.03.
HERITAGE BAY AT PHILLIPS LANDING
2 bed 2 bath, 1345 sq ft 1 car detached garage
7567 Tattant Blvd
Total Sales: 61 High Sale Price: $3.7 million Low Sale Price: $75,000 REO/Bank Owned: One Auction/REO: One
The home at 8221 Lake Serene Drive, Orlando, sold Jan. 17, for $580,000. Built in 1998, it has five bedrooms, three-andone-half baths, a pool and 3,001 square feet. The price per square foot is $193.27.
Contact Gabby Baquero at gbaquero@orangeobserver.com
Offices in Celebration and Windermere
19
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2017
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604 Mulber Ave # 407from finding the p in Windermere 1410 Celebration Celebration andCele ma MLS # O5325911 ContactMLS our#o 4 bed / 4 bath / 3,493 Sq Ft 2 bed 2b staff to lear 2 bed 2 bath 1435 sq ft First floor cond 4th floor condo with balcony Loc Offered $635,000Offered at: $219,900 Offered at: $275,000 Offered a Offered at $721,900 Offered at: at $329,000 Ex MLS#: O5436827
931 Spring Park - Celebration 1211Loop Stonecutter Dr # 502 267 Goldenrain Dr, #30-267 Celebration - Artisan Club Celebration MLS # S4817743
MLS # S4809113 4 bed 3.5 bath 2817 under air MLS sq # ftS4724783 26’ 1736 with sq ft 3 bed 2.5 bath 2091 sq ft Custom Garage, 3 bed 38’x 3 bath 3 separate 9’ garage doors. condo. 2 car garage 5th floor condo. 1 car garage
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1438 Stickley Avenue Single Family Home in Celebration 4 Bed/ 3.5 Bath/ 3,068 Sq Ft Offered at $669,000 MLS#: s4835662
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815 Spring Park Loop Single Family Home in Celebration 5 Bed/ 4.5 Bath/ 3,519 Sq Ft Offered at $899,900 MLS#: S4840833
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229347
6749 Valhalla Way
WINDERMERE OBSERVER
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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2017
Come Home to
Luxury
• One of the last, gated new home communities in prestigious Windermere • Featuring estate homes on expansive half-acre homes sites • Choose from hundreds of elegant design options to fit your lifestyle • Premier location for upscale shopping & fine dining – just minutes from any convenience you may need!
Priced from the upper $800,000s DISCOVER YOUR DREAM HOME TODAY! 407-656-3200 | TollBrothers.com/Casabella Design trends, tips & more at TollTV.com | Download the Toll Brothers App today Brokers welcome. Homes available nationwide. Prices subject to change without notice. Photos are images only and should not be relied upon to confirm applicable features. This is not an offering where prohibited by law. CGC055953.
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OrangeObserver.com
Amanda Black
REALTOR®, Interior Designer amandablackfl@gmail.com
Winter Garden | $349,000
Walk to downtown! Charming 4/3 home is totally updated with open floor plan. Quality finishes throughout include granite counters and bamboo flooring. Large screened porch and private back yard shaded with mature oaks.
Judy Black
Montverde | $819,500
Stunning 6/6 home in gated neighborhood. 5,100 sf includes game rm, theater, designer island kitchen, entertainment bar and luxurious master suite. Unbelievable screened lanai with outdoor fireplace, solar heated pool & spa and gorgeous lake views.
The Manors | $525,000
Beautiful 4/3 home sits on 2/3 acre lot expanded by natural greenbelt. Custom built with quality features throughout. Walking distance to Windermere Elem and Rec Center and access to the Butler Chain of Lakes.
Broker Associate 407.810.1803 judyblackfla@gmail.com
Keene’s Pointe | $1,080,000
Unique courtyard pool home creates a dramatic first impression. 4,100 sf includes gourmet island kitchen with butler’s pantry, wine room, billiard room, office, bonus room and guest suite w/ private entry. Large private back yard w/ brick patio, fire pit and hot tub.
WIndermere | $748,000
Mediterranean pool home located at the end of a quiet lane just outside of Windermere. 4,500 sf includes grand island kitchen, high ceilings and abundant windows. Guest quarters includes full kitchen, bedroom, living room and separate entry.
THE JUDY BLACK TEAM www.judyblacklakefront.com
229311
Butler Chain of Lakes | $1,425,000
UNBELIEVABLE OPPORTUNITY to purchase 1 acre on the Butler Chain in the Town of Windermere. 115’ of sandy shoreline, sunset views and paved road. Open floor plan - ideal for entertaining! Walking distance to town amenities and events.
Willow Wood | $625,000
Stunning home located on a high corner lot overlooking pond and park. 3,000 sf of living space with dramatic designer kitchen and quality finishes throughout. Gorgeous screened lanai with heated pool and summer kitchen.
21
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2017
ENJOY SWEETER SAVINGS WITH BEAZER.
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*Offer valid for new contracts between 2/1/17 and 2/19/17 that close per contract terms. All lot premiums in all communities will be reduced by 50%. Luxury homesite premiums and savings vary throughout community offerings, up to the following as of 1/14/17: Windermere Trails, lot 202 save $6,500. Closing cost contribution valid only with the use of a Beazer Preferred Lender and is limited to the lesser of 2% of standard closings costs or the following amount $8,000 in Windermere Trails. Option savings allow for a 50% discount on all options selected up to a maximum savings not to exceed $25,000 in Windermere Trails. Savings vary per home, plan, and community. Prior sales and other offers excluded. Gas card incentive (value $10) available Feb 1 to Feb 28, for first-time visitors only. Must complete a registration form. Pricing, features, and availability subject to change without notice. See New Home Counselor for complete details. © 2017 Beazer Homes 1/17 137090
226613
Lake Butler | $2,690,000
Wonderful lake house primely located on one acre of manicured grounds with 113 ft of sandy shoreline. 5,400 sf offers luxurious master suite, office and bonus room. Resort style backyard with stone patio, heated pool and spa, summer kitchen and boat house.
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OrangeObserver.com
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WINDERMERE OBSERVER
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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2017
REAL ESTATE
So local, it feels like your garage!
Call Today! IN WINTER GARDEN
407-654-3037 www.stoneybrookweststorage.com
tourfactory.com
This Keene’s Pointe home, at 9343 Tibet Pointe Circled, Windermere, sold Jan. 13, for $3.7 million. This updated Stonebridge custom sits on Lake Tibet.
WEST ORANGE LAKE STEER POINTE
The home at 8200 Lexington View Lane, Orlando, sold Jan. 17, for $415,000. Built in 1999, it has five bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 3,071 square feet. The price per square foot is $135.14. WESTMINSTER LANDING
The home at 8018 Horse Ferry Road, Orlando, sold Jan. 17, for $475,000. Built in 2000, it has five bedrooms, four baths, a pool and 3,311 square feet. The price per square foot is $143.46. WINDERMERE CASABELLA AT WINDERMERE
The home at 4261 Isabella
The home at 6240 Blakeford Drive, Windermere, sold Jan. 18, for $977,000. Built in 1999, it has four bedrooms, four baths, a pool and 4,038 square feet. The price per square foot is $241.95. The home at 6258 Blakeford Drive, Windermere, sold Jan. 13, for $820,000. Built in 2001, it has four bedrooms, fourand-one-half baths, a pool and 3,844 square feet. The price per square foot is $213.32. The home at 8411 Woburn Court, Windermere, sold Jan. 13, for $500,000. Built in 1999, it has four bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,600 square feet. The price per square foot is $192.31. RESERVE AT BELMERE
407-905-7898 www.maguireroadstorage.com
RESERVE AT LAKE BUTLER SOUND
The home at 11143 Coniston Way, Windermere, sold Jan. 17, for $1.3 million. Built in 2005, it has four bedrooms, five baths, two half-baths, a pool and 5,784 square feet. The price per square foot is $224.76. RESERVE AT WATERFORD POINTE
The home at 2107 Water Key Drive, Windermere, sold Jan. 18, for $1,365,000. Built in 2000, it has four bedrooms, three-andone-half baths, a pool and 4,551 square feet. The price per square foot is $299.93. WINDERMERE DOWNS
The home at 1711 Maple Leaf Drive, Windermere, sold Jan. 17, for $410,000. Built in 1985, it has four bedrooms, twoand-one-half baths, a pool and 2,500 square feet. The price per square foot is $164.
The home at 1726 Glenwick Drive, Windermere, sold Jan. 18, for $520,000. Built in 2004, it has five bedrooms, four baths, a
228723
KEENE’S POINTE
The home at 7486 Fairgrove Ave., Windermere, sold Jan. 19, for $378,380. Built in 2016, it has four bedrooms, two-andone-half baths and 2,727 square feet. The price per square foot is $138.75.
IN OCOEE
maguireroadstorage@cfl.rr.com
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228966
WINDERMERE SOUND
pool and 3,902 square feet. The price per square foot is $133.26.
See more at OrangeObserver.com
Circle, Windermere, sold Jan. 17, for $1,718,373. Built in 2017, it has six bedrooms, six baths, two half-baths and 7,196 square feet. The price per square foot is $238.80.
ONLINE
St., Windermere, sold Jan. 18, for $621,267. Built in 2016, it has six bedrooms, four-and-onehalf baths and 4,492 square feet. The price per square foot is $138.31.
stoneybrookwestss@cfl.rr.com
You. Your Neighbors. Your Neighborhood.
Considering Selling Your Home?
WINDERMERE
Observer Serving Southwest Orange County
INSIDE
Meet Olympia setter Lorissa King PAGE 17
YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.
VOLUME 1, NO. 1
Text your address to 407-492-1900 For a FREE Home Valuation
FREE
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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2015
228747
At last! Work begins on relief school Officials hosted a groundbreaking ceremony for the new West Orange County high school Sept. 24. STORY ON 6 ARTS+CULTURE
The secret life of
MAYOR BRUHN West Orange High thespians dish up a spoonful of sugar.
PAGE 13
Welcome to your new hometown newspaper MICHAEL ENG EXECUTIVE EDITOR
Shelley Dawson, REALTOR® Keller Williams, Classic Realty III
cell: 407-493-1900 www.shelleydawson.com
YOUR TOWN SCOTT APPOINTS AREA RESIDENT Gov. Rick Scott announced Sept. 18 two appointments and one reappointment to the Florida Virtual School Board of Trustees. Robert Gidel Sr., of Windermere, is the managing partner at Liberty Capital. He fills a vacant seat and is appointed for a term that began Sept. 18 and ends Sept. 10, 2017. He joins Iris Gonzalez, of Tierra Verde, on the board.
PRSRT STD ECRWSS US POSTAGE PAID WINTER GARDEN, FL PERMIT NO. 81
THE GROVE ORLANDO BOOGIES AT BIRTHDAY BASH
What you’re holding in your hands is the product of more than a year of planning. It’s the product of our wildest dreams — a bold step for a company that last month celebrated our 110th anniversary. Welcome, readers, to the first edition of the Windermere Observer, a sister paper of the West Orange Times & Observer, which has roots that date back to the Winter Garden Ricochet in 1905. For more than a century, our newspaper — through all its previous owners and iterations — covered the entire West Orange region with just one edition. Today, that changes. Put simply: West Orange has grown too large for one hyperlocal community newspaper. For longtime readers: this new Windermere Observer will cover Windermere, Horizon West, Dr. Phillips, Bay Hill, Gotha and MetroWest, while the West Orange Times & Observer will renew its focus on Winter Garden, Ocoee and Oakland. As the 10th newspaper owned by the Sarasota-based Observer Media Group, the Windermere Observer will strive to deliver on OMG’s slogan: “You. Your Neighbors. Your Neighborhood.”
ADVERTISE OR SUBSCRIBE TODAY! *****************ECRWSSEDDM****
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SEE NEWSPAPER PAGE 6
Call us at 407-656-2121 Email us at AdvertiseNow@OrangeObserver.com or Subscribe@OrangeObserver.com
Paul McGarigal Real Estate Coach The
Specializing in
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226236
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Since the 1980s — far longer than he has been mayor of Windermere — Gary Bruhn has collected and sold movie memorabilia. SEE STORY ON PAGE 4
Please Visit: RealEstateCoachOrlando.com RentNowBuyLater.com CALL NOW & Ask About Our
“Rent Now - Buy Later”
Program
228019
David Haynes
Windermere Mayor Gary Bruhn strikes the only suitable pose when holding a glass from “The Godfather.”
WINDERMERE OBSERVER
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OrangeObserver.com
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2017
THE COVE at HAMLIN
5717 Hamlin GrovesTrail Winter Garden, FL 34787
ESTANCIA at WINDERMERE
1106 Estancia Woods Loop Windermere, FL 34786
THE RESERVE at PHILLIPS COVE
6975 Phillips Reserve Court Orlando, FL 32819
THORNBROOKE atTOWNE CENTER TOWNHOMES 592 Merry Brooke Circle Sanford, FL 32771
THE PRESERVE at LAUREATE PARK
13245 Lower Harden Ave Orlando, FL 32827
OVERLOOK at HAMLIN
7719 Minutemen Loop Winter Garden, FL 34787
HAVENCREST
THE ESTATES at PEARL LAKE
7518 Blue Quail Lane Orlando, FL 32835
5850 Pearl Estates Lane Sanford, FL 32771
CYPRESS RESERVE
THORNBROOKE atTOWNE CENTER
14193 Jomatt Loop Winter Garden, FL 34787
149 Big SpringTerrace Sanford, FL 32771
WALDENCOVE
WOODLAND PARK
428BlueBirchCourt Sanford, FL 32771
12048 Alder Branch Loop Orlando, FL 32824
THE CANYONS at HIGHLAND RANCH
RETREAT at LAKE CHARM
516 BellflowerWay Clermont, FL 34711
Coming soon! Oviedo, FL 32765
ESPLANADE at HIGHLAND RANCH 983 RidgeglenWay Clermont, FL 34711
SOUTHERN OAKS
120 Ethan Hammock Court Oviedo, FL 32765
STEEPLE CHASE
3757 Farm Bell Place Lake Mary, FL 32746
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taylor mornson .... Homes Inspired by You .. 229553
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