02.18.16 Windermere Observer by Orange Observer

FEBRUARY 2016

Observer Serving Southwest Orange County

YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.

VOLUME 1, NO. 21

ARTS+CULTURE

Health Matters

FREE

•

Observer

Take the challenge!

Sonata coming soon

Sonata Senior Living to open in Winter Garden.

PAGE 6

All carbs are not bad! And yes, not all diets have to be flavorless.

The West Orange Healthcar Courtesy photo e District, Health Central Hospital and Observer Media West Orange, a challenge Group have created Healthy that seeks to make West Orange the healthiest communit y in the nation. Pages 12-13

IT’S ALL IMPORTANT

Children. Work. Friends. But our In-Home Senior Care when a loved one has Alzheimer’s… will help make sure nothing falls through the cracks.

INSIDE

See for yourself how In-Home Care from Senior Helpers you help them live a more can help enjoyable senior life. Request our free, no obligation “Supporting Family Members DVD: with Dementia.” SeniorHelpers.com/Orlando

Call today! And schedule your

PAGE 18 FREE In-Home assessment

407-818-1292

Serving Orange, Seminole & Osceola

Counties. HHA# 299993681

196981

WINDERMERE

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2016

TALENT IN TOWN SQUARE

Dr. Phillips presents its most ambitious production ever.

PAGE 9

YOUR TOWN Could you use $500 for college? The Dr. Phillips Huntington Learning Center announced the opening of its College Scholarship Sweepstakes, scheduled to end on March 31.

Alana O’Hern works from her studio in downtown Windermere.

The winner will receive a $500 scholarship toward future college tuition and fees. High-school students ages 14 and older are eligible to enter, as are parents, grandparents and friends of high-school students attending college after graduation. Entries are submitted via text message. For a chance to win $500, text “500” to 84444. For more, visit hunt ingtonhelps.com.

JENNIFER NESSLAR STAFF WRITER

he town of Windermere will show off its creative side this weekend

at the first Windermere Art Affair. The event, which takes place from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 20, at Windermere Town Square, is organized by the Windermere Downtown Business Committee.

Trail run set for Feb. 27 Tri & Run of West Orange is accepting registration for its first Rock On Classic Trail Run 5K/10K, which will be held at 8 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 27, at Roper Ranch (Rock On Adventures), 17701 Old YMCA Road, Winter Garden. Entry fees are $25 (5K) and $35 (10K) through Feb. 20; $30 (5K) and $40 (10K) from Feb. 21 to 26; and $35 (5K) and $45 on race day. To register, visit trinrun. com.

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

Photos by Jennifer Nesslar

See story on page 4

Carver Floyd Scholz will be among the featured artists.

Two years later, vigil honors Dep. Scott Pine

Ryker, left, Haley and Maddox Pine helped to honor their father, fallen Deputy Scott Pine, at a two-yearanniversary vigil Feb. 11.

The Orange County Sheriff’s Office hosted the vigil Feb. 11. The Florida Senate also passed a bill in his name. ZAK KERR STAFF WRITER WEST ORANGE There

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

Postal Customer

Courtesy photo

are some dedications that last a mere moment, but the dedications to slain Orange County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Jonathan Scott Pine two years after his death might be

stronger than ever. His widow, Bridget, and children, Haley; Ryker; and Maddox, gathered with friends, family and community members for a vigil Feb. 11, the second anniverSEE DEPUTY PINE PAGE 6

WINDERMERE OBSERVER

THURSDAY, FEB. 18

YOU R CALENDAR

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2016

A GIANT PROGRAM 3:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 18, at the Windermere Library, 530 Main St. Get excited for an event of giant proportions with huge stories, activities and crafts. Ages 6 to 12. (407) 835-7323. HEALTHY LUNCHES FOR KIDS 12:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 18, at the Windermere Library, 530 Main St. Learn how to save time during those busy mornings and how to avoid the usual lunch rut. For more information, visit awholenewlife.net.

FRIDAY, FEB. 19

BABY BASH 11:30 a.m. Friday, Feb. 19, at the Southwest Library, 7255 Della Drive, Orlando. Ages 0 to 2. (407) 835-7323.

SKIN DEEP This band will perform at 9:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 19, and Saturday, Feb. 20, at Dexters of Windermere, 4757 The Grove Drive, Windermere. Visit windermere. dexwine.com. SOBO SPLASH FUNDRAISING GALA 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 19, at the SoBo Gallery, 127 S. Boyd St., Winter Garden. The theme is black and white and a splash of blue. The evening includes art, entertainment, live music by Johnny Dee and the Starlights, live art demonstrations, food, wine and spirits, live and silent auctions and special activities. Tickets are $75. (407) 347-7996 or wgart.org.

SATURDAY, FEB. 20

AFROCENTRIC ORLANDO 6:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 20, at the Rosen Jewish Community Center, 11184 Apopka-Vineland Road, Orlando. The event celebrating Black History Month benefits The Wells’ Built Museum of African American History & Culture. Tickets are $18. For more details, visit AfrocentricOrlandoEvent. Eventbrite.com.

chair and enjoy some blues. (407) 656-4111 or cwgdn.com/ special_events. HEALTHY BODY, HEALTHY SOUL 2 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 20, at Crown of Glory Lutheran Church, 21101 S. Apopka-Vineland Road, Orlando. Speaker is Dr. Adam Stewart. RSVP to Carolyn Seifert, (407) 4434216. SUMMERPORT HEALTH AND WELLNESS FEST Noon to 4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 20, at Summerport Village, Summerport Village Parkway. This event will feature 30 different vendors from the healthand-wellness industry and family activities. There will be games for kids, a family fun run, dodgeball and more. WINDERMERE ART AFFAIR 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 20, at Windermere Town Square, 520 Main St., Windermere. This event will feature more than 40 artists, music, food and performances. For more, visit WindermereArtAffair.com.

SUNDAY, FEB. 21

SUMMERPORT VILLAGE FARMERS MARKET 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 21, at Summerport Village, Summerport Village Parkway. The market will feature more than 20 vendors.

MONDAY, FEB. 22

ARTSY TODDLER 10:30 a.m. Monday, Feb. 22, at the Southwest Library, 7255 Della Drive, Orlando. Paint, paste, glue, stamp and create. Young children will enjoy stories, songs and exploring art experiences. Ages 1 to 3. Seating is limited. Registration recommended by calling (407) 835-7323.

THURSDAY, FEB. 25

WEST ORANGE CHAMBER BUSINESS AFTER HOURS 5:30 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 25, hosted by Toll Brothers Inc. at Lakeshore Community, 8818 Lakeshore Pointe Drive, Winter

BLUES ON THE PLAZA 6 to 9 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 20, at the Winter Garden gazebo in downtown Winter Garden. Concert will feature TC Carr and Bolts of Blue. Take a lawn

Garden. Mingle with other business men and women and make new contacts at this monthly West Orange Chamber of Commerce event. Cost is $5 in advance and $10 at the door for chamber members and $25 for others. Call the chamber at (407) 656-1304 for information.

FRIDAY, FEB. 26

WILD MONKEY TAILS 11 a.m. Friday, Feb. 26, at the Windermere Library, 530 Main St. Calling all curious kids: It’s time to go wild at the library with stories, arts and crafts about monkeys. Ages 3 to 5. (407) 835-7323.

Healthy Living with Heart Failure Lecture Series February 18, 2016 Kick-off and Introduction to Heart Failure with Suraj Kurup, MD, Orlando Heart Institute February 25, 2016 | Fitness and Heart Failure: You Really Can! Joyce McIlroy, RN and Sue Funderburk, RN March 3, 2016 | Healthy Eating with Heart Failure with a Cooking Demonstration | Gary Applesies, Roper YMCA Director of Healthy Eating March 10, 2016 | Tying it all Together | Rita Lewis, RN, Clinical Program Coordinator and Anthony Morales, MSN, RN, CEN, NRP • All sessions are 5:30 pm to 6:30 pm. • The Orlando Health – Health Performance Center at the Roper YMCA • 100 Windermere Road | Winter Garden, FL 34787 • Limited Seating! • RSVP to Brandis.Burney@HealthCentral.org • FREE Biometric Screening • FREE giveaways • Drawing for a $100 gift basket if you attend all 4 sessions. healthcentral.org 196275

WINDERMERE OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2016

Rosen JCC to celebrate expansion with two days of fun and fare The annual JCC gala is also the grand opening of its auditorium, with a matinee event for families the next day. ZAK KERR Shannon Griffin and her buddy, Daniel Brown.

“Queen Ashley” proudly wore her tiara.

ROLLING OUT THE

RED CARPET

“Queen Sydney” and her prom buddy, Charlie, posed for a keepsake photo.

irst Baptist Church Windermere, the Tim Tebow Foundation and the community teamed up to host a prom night for people with special needs Feb. 12. The foundation’s event, Night to Shine 2016, also was hosted at more than 200 churches in eight countries simultaneously. The event began at 5:30 p.m., with hair and makeup sessions for the girls and shoe-shining for the boys. Each guest received a corsage or boutonniere and a tiara or crown. They also got to walk the red carpet with welcoming paparazzi. After getting their photos taken, they headed to the main event, where dinner was served and the dance floor was open. — DANIELLE HENDRIX

Wendi Dabney and her prom buddy, David Pekofsky, had a blast.

Becky Hobson, right, struck a pose with her prom buddy, Lizbellys Matos.

STAFF WRITER DR. PHILLIPS

The last several years have been busy for the Rosen Jewish Community Center, with frequent flux from opening its campus in 2009 to its independent incorporation last year. Executive Director Bonnie Rayman is looking forward to an era of normalcy, which could begin in March after a two-day grand opening of the JCC’s auditorium, the Rosen Event Center. Corresponding with the JCC’s second annual gala Feb. 27 is “Opening Night,” a performance by Theater South Orlando befitting the public’s first look at the Rosen Event Center among other state-of-the-art facilities in its Phase 2 expansion. “They bring in lots of talent,” Rayman said of Theater South Orlando, which has offices at the JCC. “They have one of the main ballerinas from the Cirque shows — major, major talent … almost on par with that of a Dr. Phillips Performing Arts Center. We’re really excited for the event.” The community has matched Rayman’s enthusiasm for this event, having bought most of the tickets to this cocktail-attire event before the price increase deadline, she said. It will feature a walk-around sampling of various local eateries’ comestibles with festively themed booths to match, such as the Margaritaville station putting guests right in the middle of a Jimmy Buffett Key West paradise, Rayman said. “It’s not your typical gala dinner,” she said. “It’s awesome, a lot of fun and all included — you’re getting this full open bar with unlimited drinks … all the different dinner stations and the show.” There will be a babysitting service available, but Rayman encourages families to attend Broadway in Your Backyard Feb. 28. This second half of the grand-opening weekend features a matinee performance of “Opening Night” with the opportunity to learn about improv, acting, dance and music from actors such as Broadway’s

IF YOU GO ANNUAL GALA AND ROSEN EVENT CENTER GRAND OPENING WHEN: 7 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 27 COST: $75; $10 per child babysitting by reservation BROADWAY IN YOUR BACKYARD WHEN: 2 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 28 COST: $15 general admission; $30 VIP Both events will be at the Rosen JCC, 11184 S. Apopka-Vineland Road, Orlando. For more information, visit RosenJCC.org/ gala or contact Executive Director Bonnie Rayman at (407) 387-2744 or BonnieR @RosenJCC.org.

Grant Norman in three 20-minute stations. “It’s going to be all of the best from Broadway,” Rayman said. “There will be things from ‘Beauty & the Beast,’ things from ‘Wicked,’ ‘Anything You Can Do I Can Do Better’ from ‘Annie.’” For families seeking afternoon fun with children ages 2 to 13, this especially would be a great time, she said. Members of the audience will be selected to get on stage and participate in the show. “Also, in this there will be a preview of the two youth musicals that are coming out in March,” Rayman said. “So you’ll actually see youth musical numbers, as well.” Proceeds from these events — including those from a silent auction — will go toward furnishings for the new spaces of the expansion, Rayman said. This includes classrooms for its educational spaces, stations for exercising and a teen hangout. For more information on the project, visit RosenJCC.org/ expansion. Contact Zak Kerr at zkerr@ orangeobserver.com.

Rachel Cudia, 17, looked stunning in her red dress and matching red nails. Zak Kerr

ONLINE

See more photos at OrangeObserver.com

The public will get its first look at the Rosen Event Center at the Rosen JCC’s annual gala and grand opening Feb. 27.

WINDERMERE OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2016

Town preps for creative display

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.”

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

In addition to the art exhibits, attendees will be able to enjoy food, mimosas and live entertainment. West Orange-area artists Floyd Scholz, Alana O’Hern and Noreen Coup are just three of the more than 50 artists who will shine in the sidewalk spotlight.

FLOYD SCHOLZ To call Floyd Scholz passionate about birds would be an understatement. His home studio is where Scholz, who has carved birds for 48 years, blends his passion for birds and art. A road sign placed on the wall reads, “Bird Lovers Lane,” and his calendar prominently displays birds. Musical instruments in the room also harken to Scholz’s fascination for music. He thinks different forms of art, music, paintings, sculptures and food allow one to experience art through different senses — sight, hearing and taste. So it just makes sense that he likes birds. “The interesting thing about birds and music is that birds as a subject for art are varied — they’re beautiful to look at, and they sing beautifully,” Scholz said. “So birds capture all of those nuances — and they taste good.” Scholz is among 50 artists who will be featured at the first Windermere Art Affair. Scholz carves wood called tupelo into various birds — he is known for his focus on the birds of prey, such as eagles, hawks, falcons and owls. Creating this art requires extensive research on the birds, and from this knowledge Scholz has written seven books. Scholz grew up in a family of people who enjoyed the outdoors and began carving at 10 years old. His uncle was a machinist who was a gifted woodworker. When he died suddenly of cancer, Scholz’s aunt gave him some of his uncle’s unfinished carvings, and it was the beginning of a career. For a while, carving was little more than a profitable hobby. A reigning NCAA champion in the decathlon, Scholz was more focused on his athletic career and training for the 1980 Olympics being held in Moscow. But the Carter administration’s boycott left Scholz scrambling to figure out a new direction for his life. He landed in Vermont, where he revitalized his bird-carving hobbies and met up with other musicians who encouraged his musical side. A red-tailed hawk carved by Scholz is currently in the Smithsonian American Art Museum. He has been featured in exhibits

WINDERMERE

Friedrich Hayek “Road to Serfdom,” 1944 Publisher / Dawn Willis, dwillis@OrangeObserver.com Executive Editor / Michael Eng, meng@OrangeObserver.com Design Editor / Jessica Eng, jeng@OrangeObserver.com Community Editor / Amy Quesinberry Rhode, aqrhode@OrangeObserver.com Senior Sports Editor / Steven Ryzewski, sryzewski@OrangeObserver.com Staff Writers Danielle Hendrix, dhendrix@OrangeObserver.com Zak Kerr, zkerr@OrangeObserver.com Jennifer Nesslar, jnesslar@OrangeObserver.com Advertising Executives Bill Carter, bcarter@OrangeObserver.com Kim Edwards, kedwards@OrangeObserver. com Cyndi Gustafson, advertising@OrangeObserver.com

Noreen Coup works primarily with palette knife oils.

Photos by Jennifer Nesslar

Creative Services Tony Trotti, ttrotti@OrangeObserver.com Andrés Tam, atam@OrangeObserver.com

around the world and also travels often for book signings and lectures. Visit Scholz’s website at vermon traptoracademy.com.

ALANA O’HERN Walk Windermere’s Main Street, and you might not notice a small storefront where Alana O’Hern is painting. The artist primarily paints with a palette knife but experiments with all sorts of painting. On a recent painting, she used an acrylic paint and tissue paper to create texture in her work. She doesn’t limit herself to people, but people have always been the subject of her work, ever since she began drawing years ago. “I was always just fascinated with people and faces,” O’Hern said. She currently is working on a painting of David Bowie, which she will complete at the Windermere Art Affair. She’s done paintings of Jimi Hendrix, which sold quickly. When she paints, she tries to capture the soul of her subject, and she finds that comes out through color. O’Hern, married to professional golfer Nick O’Hern, used her time traveling with him to work on her art. One time, she tried a self portrait with a palette knife, and she fell in love with painting. From there, she got a steady flow of commissions. As a part of the Central Florida community, O’Hern struggled to

Floyd Scholz in his studio with a carved goshawk.

Customer Service Representatives Sarah Felt, sfelt@OrangeObserver.com Allison Brunelle, abrunelle@OrangeObserver.com

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

Alana O’Hern’s “Buddy.”

find something creative to do. But in Windermere, she found her niche with painting. “I feel like there is so many people who are looking for something more in their life,” O’Hern said. “I think the town of Windermere can offer that. I think it’s just the start of something wonderful.” To inquire about paintings, contact O’Hern at alana@byalana. com.

NOREEN COUP Five years ago, Dr. Phillips resident Noreen Coup attended a palette knife workshop and fell in love with the work. Now, most of the works she does is with palette knife oils. She uses a limited palette of eight colors, and takes the palette knife to mix and blend the colors, as well as create sharp edges and details in the painting. “For me, it’s a much looser style of painting,” Coup said. “I find brush work more confining. It seems to be much freer for me.” Coup works with landscapes and seascapes, as well as florals. Coup is part of McRae Studios, a co-op of 21 artists, where she has a permanent studio. She also teaches classes at the Crealde School of Art in Winter Park, and she will begin teaching at Crealde’s Winter Garden campus soon. She is relocating to Winter Garden in the next few months, where she will do private and semi-private lessons from her home. She also teaches classes through the Winter Garden Art Association. To sign up for classes, visit crealde.org or wgart.org. Contact Jennifer Nesslar at jnesslar@orangeobserver.com.

WINDERMERE ART AFFAIR

TO ADVERTISE

WHEN: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 20 WHERE: Windermere Town Square, 520 Main St.

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

SEND US YOUR NEWS We want to hear from you. Let us know about your events, celebrations and achievements. To contact us, send your information via email to Michael Eng, meng@ OrangeObserver.com.

WINDERMERE OBSERVER The Windermere Observer (USPS 687-120) is published weekly for $29 per year ($40 outside of Orange County) by the Observer Media Group, 720 S. Dillard St., Winter Garden, Florida 34787. Periodical postage paid at Winter Garden, Florida. POSTMASTER send address changes to the Windermere Observer, 720 S. Dillard St., Winter Garden, Florida 34787. Opinions in the Windermere Observer are those of the individual writer and are not necessarily those of the Windermere Observer, its publisher or editors. Mailed letters must by typed and include the author’s signature and phone number. Letters to the editor are subject to editing for space and grammar and become the property of the newspaper.

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

OrangeObserver.com

WINDERMERE OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2016

Your child. Our promise. “I’m passionate that parents need to find the right doctor for their family, one they can talk to about anything.” Christine Chan-Ragazzo, MD, is a boardcertified pediatrician with fellowship training in adolescent medicine. She has cared for children and teens in both private practice and hospital settings, including emergency medicine.

Now Open — Nemours Children’s Primary Care, Horizon West The new home of Dr. Chan-Ragazzo. As a part of one of the nation’s leading children’s health care systems, we love working alongside families, helping you through all your child’s ages and stages - from birth to 18. Pediatric services include newborn care, well child exams, sick child visits, immunizations and ADD/ADHD evaluations and treatment.

Can’t make it to our location, or have a problem after we’re closed? With Nemours CareConnect, you can talk face to face with our pediatric experts online —anytime, anywhere. So it’s easy to get the help you need, exactly when and where you need it. Learn how at Nemours.org/CareConnect.

For appointments: (407) 217-7979 Expecting a baby? Call for a complimentary meet and greet. We accept most insurance plans, including United, Aetna, AvMed, Blue Cross and Cigna.

Horizon West Your child. Our promise. 196966

Overstreet Market 7315 Winter Garden Vineland Road, Suite 101, Windermere, FL 34786 Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Walk-in sick care for established patients from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. daily. Nemours.org/horizonwest

WINDERMERE OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2016

Council extends manager’s contract

Dep. Pine CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

sary of the day Benjamin Holtermann fatally shot Scott in the Westminster Landing subdivision in West Orange County. Pine had been a deputy for just three years when he worked the midnight shift and pursued a suspected car burglar on foot, ending in the shooting. “(It) was an amazing event,” Bridget said. “It showed our family how many people truly cared about my husband and still care about us two years later. It was very honoring to be able to have different people speak in his honor, and watching the candles light was amazing.” Haley, 8, had asked whether she could speak at this vigil on behalf of her father. “I am so proud of her,” Bridget said. “She sat down and wrote her own speech. What she talked about was how old she was when her daddy died and how old her brothers were ... and her dad was a lot of fun and he wrestled with them. I remember her saying, ‘My dad’s a cool dad.’ She said, ‘I know he’s watching over me in heaven, and I think he’s eating chocolate in heaven.’” A LASTING LEGACY

Also this week, the Florida Senate unanimously passed a bill bearing Scott’s name, Senate Bill 7012, which would increase retirement benefits for families of officers and first responders who die on duty. A press release on the bill notes Bridget is currently ineligible for benefits beyond Scott’s three years on the force. “We do not want the spouses of Florida’s fallen heroes to struggle to meet the basic needs of their children,” said Senate President Andy Gardiner, of Orlando. “This legislation will help families like Officer Pine’s by replacing the monthly income lost when a loved one is killed in the line of duty. For those in the pension plan, this EXPECT legislation increasesSOMETHING the pension MEMBERSHIP benefit to 100% ofMORE the monthly salary earned by the deceased family member. Those families whose loved one was a member of the investment EXPECT plan will be INSURANCE SOMETHING able to convert those benefits to MORE a monthly annuity that will serve TM

EXPECT SOMETHING MORE

TRAVEL

Windermere leaders voted 3-1 to extend Town Manager Robert Smith through 2021 with a minimum 3% raise. ZAK KERR STAFF WRITER WINDERMERE

to replace lost income in a similar manner.” The pension benefit now stands at 50% of the monthly salary. If this bill becomes law, families of first responders killed on duty after June 2013 would be able to opt into a survivor benefits investment program instead of receiving normal retirement benefits in the plan. The Pines traveled to Tallahassee to witness the vote. “It’s so important to me and my family,” Bridget said. “I feel like for what my husband and my family gave up, as well as other lawenforcement officers, it should be written as 100%. It is an injustice to these first responders that come and protect us when we are in need. The state should help us get access for the families.” Bridget remains hopeful the Florida House and Gov. Rick Scott will follow the lead of the Senate. “This bill in my husband’s name is going to change future people’s lives (who) walk in my footsteps,” she said. “So not only will it help me and my children, but it’s going to help (others), which is so important, because my husband was all about helping others.” By next summer, there also will be two parks dedicated to Pine — one in Westminster Landing and the other at the Dorman Property where the West Orange High relief school’s stadium will be.

Courtesy photo

Orange County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Jonathan Scott Pine died of a gunshot wound while on foot patrol two years ago in Westminster Landing.

“This bill in my husband’s name is going to change future people’s lives (who) walk in my footsteps. So not only will it help me and my children, but it’s going to help (others), which is so important, because my husband was all about helping others.” — Bridget Pine

Contact Zak Kerr at zkerr@orangeobserver.com.

Although each member of the Windermere Town Council agreed in evaluations of Town Manager Robert Smith he has been impeccable since he signed on as town manager Oct. 24, 2011, not all members agreed on how to set up an extension for Smith at the Feb. 9 Windermere Town Council meeting. Councilman Richard Gonzalez said most town managers receive $150,000 or more and have assistants, whereas Smith currently makes around $110,000 and does not have an assistant town manager. Gonzalez recommended a recurring 5% increase in a reworked extension, which would double from two-and-one-half years to five years. “He has shown exemplary performance in all areas,” Gonzalez said. The council agreed someone should be prepared to take over in case something happened to Smith, but Councilwoman Molly Rose said Windermere’s salaries had been in line with the area and suggested a minimum 3% increase. The council would then be able to add further to Smith’s raise each year as it would see fit. Councilman Bob McKinley said the evaluation form needed an update to better reflect Smith’s role and the town’s charter. Councilman John Armstrong agreed and said he had been asking for changes to the form for four years. Mayor Gary Bruhn said he had been trying for years to keep evaluations in the February or March period, based on elections of new council members in March. The council ultimately agreed by a 3-1 vote to amend Smith’s most recent extension to five years with a minimum 3% increase to be determined at a yearly evaluation. McKinley dissented. For the 2016-17 year, Smith’s pay would increase to at least $114,000, Bruhn said.

IN OTHER NEWS n The council approved a resolution for the Innovative Traffic Signal Technologies Pilot Project, which Bruhn said was about using technology to coordinate traffic signals and improve flow across municipalities. n Jeff Daniels, Green Destination Orlando president, presented about GDO’s Central Florida Workplace Challenge, encouraging area businesses and municipalities to take the challenge. The goal is to make Central Florida the premier green destination, a totally sustainable culture supporting healthy living, social responsibility, environmental stewardship and economic vitality. n West Orange Chamber of Commerce President Stina D’Uva presented a gift to Windermere for its Historical Preservation Board’s work on its 1887 schoolhouse. n Town staff published ballot language for its March 15 vote on whether to incur debt up to $4.2 million for new administrative, public works and police facilities; increased 1887 schoolhouse parking; added basketball courts; and improvements to streets and other undertakings.

Of his evaluation, Smith said he would let the council decide what it means for his contract. He said he found most interesting a question of whether he would change the Windermere brand, to which he said no, because the brand carries weight well beyond the borders of the town. Councilman Jim O’Brien was absent from this meeting. Contact Zak Kerr at zkerr@orangeobserver.com.

AAA TRAVEL

EXPECT SOMETHING MORE

AUTOMOTIVE

500

IN SAVINGS OR ONBOARD CREDIT IF YOU ATTEND THE EXPO*

Book at the show and save! Join us for seminars by well-known travel professionals, enjoy Day-of-Show specials, talk with AAA Travel Consultants & more!

Saturday, February 27, 2016 12-3pm Aloft Orlando Downtown 500 South Orange Avenue Orlando, FL 32801

Enter for your chance to win our Grand Prize

Caribbean or Mexico Cruise for Two!* Sponsored by Princess Cruises ®

Register to attend at AAA.com/TravelEvents or call 407-647-1033 x463 and 407-351-5610 x463 *See complete terms and conditions at AAA.com/Terms12 15-TR-0605

196986

RECEIVE UP TO

196477

WINDERMERE OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2016

Taste of the tropics Chimiking, a family-owned Latin-Caribbean eatery, offers new takes on classic dishes. CHIMIKING WINDERMERE ADDRESS: 6700 Conroy Windermere Road, No. 105, Windermere HOURS: 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sundays through Thursdays; and 10 a.m. to midnight Fridays through Saturdays PRICE RANGE: $6.95 to $19.95 PHONE: (321) 732-3933 WEBSITE: chimikingrest aurant.com

DANIELLE HENDRIX STAFF WRITER WINDERMERE From chimi burgers

and mofongo to surf and turf and skirt steak, local fans of LatinCaribbean cuisine now have a new Windermere eatery at which to satisfy their cravings. Chimiking, a family-owned restaurant chain, opened its newest location on Conroy-Windermere Road two months ago after purchasing the space from a Colombian restaurant. “We actually spent a lot of time closed after we bought it from the (previous) people here,” said Gabriel Roedan, owner and manager of the Windermere location. “Our other restaurant got really busy, and we didn’t have time to work on this one. People were waiting on it, and every week, it keeps on growing.” Chimiking — a namesake for chimichurri burgers — offers various Caribbean and Latin foods, from basic rice and beans to shrimp and empanadas. Roedan said the most popular item so far is the mofongo, a mix of fried green plantains mashed together in a bowl with some pork belly, butter and garlic. Another popular item, he said, is the surf and turf, a mixture of

Owner/manager Gabriel Roedan, his wife, Leodela, and his cousin, Tito, the restaurant’s chef, run the Windermere location.

the classic mofongo — filled this time with lobster bisque — and skirt steak. But the chimis are not to be left out. “What made us famous was the chimis, which are Dominican burgers with seasoned meat and cabbage, tomato and a pink sauce, which is mayonnaise and ketchup,” Roedan said. The brand, which began with a food truck on Orange Blossom Trail 10 years ago, has since expanded to include two food trucks and two restaurants. It’s a family business, with Roedan and his family running both restaurants and the original food truck. The second food truck — located in Kissimmee — operates more as a franchise. Originally, Chimiking was meant to be more of a fast-food

joint, but the overwhelming community response and clientele fostered more of a sit-down restaurant atmosphere with table servers in a relaxed, casual environment, Roedan said. Current specials at the Windermere location include a happy hour, lunch specials and a Yelp promotion in which customers who check in receive a free dessert. And the community response has been outstanding, Roedan said. “Everyone who comes here says they needed something like this in their area, with Caribbean foods like rice, beans, plantains and mofongo,” he said. “They were really waiting for it.”

Photos by Danielle Hendrix

Chimiking’s surf and turf includes mofongo with lobster bisque and skirt steak.

Contact Danielle Hendrix at dhendrix@orangeobserver.com.

Kelly & Kayden Children’s Boutique

Trunk Show Feb 19-21

10% OFF Any Sweetie Pie Collection First Communion Dress Order Placed at our Trunk Show. Excludes any other offers. Valid only on Sweetie Pie Collection. Expires 02/28/16

Ask about our Preschool for ages birth to 3 years old

Lines from Sweetie Pie Collection, Isabel Garreton, Biscotti

First Communion Dresses Christening Gowns Flower Girl Dresses & Special Occasions Easter Dresses and Spring Styles arriving daily Shop close to home: Shop KellyandKayden for all your Baby, Girls & Boy fashions and gifts By Appointment only on 02/20

Kelly & Kayden Children’s Boutique 4757 The Grove Dr, Ste 116 Windermere, Florida (407) 217-6902

www.kellyandkayden.com

197505

191005

Sunday, Feb. 21st

WINDERMERE OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2016

CR ITTE R CO R NER

Fight for Lake Roberts preservation hits Web Shelby Kolar’s petition to save woods and wetlands around Walker’s Pond Rural Settlement has more than 500 signatures. ZAK KERR STAFF WRITER WEST ORANGE COUNTY

Huckleberry (A340978) is a friendly dog waiting for a forever home. The 2-year-old dog loves a good back rub and lots of attention. He is very talkative, so you’ll never feel lonely with him. Huckleberry is ready to go home with you today. For more information, call (407) 836-3111 or visit ocnetpets.com. Critter Corner showcases local animals available for adoption. If you run a shelter or animal rescue and wish to participate, contact Staff Writer Jennifer Nesslar, jnesslar@orangeobserver.com.

Orange County Animal Services is located at 2769 Conroy Road in Orlando, near the Mall at Millenia. The shelter is open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Sundays. Orange County Animal Services believes “Furever love is priceless” and is waiving all pet adoption fees during February. When adopting a pet, you choose how much you would like to pay, and the payment will be accepted as a donation.

For now, the enclave of unincorporated Orange County near the convergence of Winter Garden, Ocoee and Windermere contains Lake Roberts and, to the lake’s east, Walker’s Pond Road, part of Walker’s Pond Rural Settlement. At the end of that road is a significant portion of woods and wetlands that stretches north to Stoneybrook West Parkway, which locals and hundreds of supporters around the world are hoping to keep so. Shelby Kolar, who is familiar with the potential for green spaces to be developed based on residence in Windermere Country Club less than a mile away, started a change.org petition titled, “Save The Woods and Wetlands of Lake Roberts and Walker’s Pond Rural Settlement.” She and her comrades hope the addressees — the Orange County Board of County Commissioners — will agree that the area of about 40 acres is important to preserve as one of few remaining green spaces in the immediate vicinity. “We want the woods and wetlands to remain untouched and Walker’s Pond Rural Settlement to remain a rural settlement, which means only one house per acre, not the multiple houses per

The gopher tortoise is one species petition signers want to protect. Courtesy

acre that the developer is proposing,” Kolar said. “No one who lives in the area wants a subdivision on that property. The only person who would benefit is the developer.” Kolar names Robert Zlatkiss as the potential developer in her petition. In her petition, Kolar wrote of Zlatkiss having intentions to get the land rezoned and annexed into Winter Garden to build a subdivision, including lakefront homes on Lake Roberts and possibly a road from the parkway south through wetlands. But Kolar would prefer some form of preserve, perhaps even to a formal extent similar to Oakland and Tibet-Butler preserves. Still, the willingness to allow one-acre lots remains, which could still be a possible compromise that still protects a breadth of local wildlife, she said.

“There’s plenty of different species of birds — I know people have seen eagles flying over there in the past,” Kolar said. “I know at one point there was a nest … gopher tortoises; just a lot of variety of wildlife.” This is not just for wildlife but to avoid overdevelopment and problems such as coyotes and other species being pushed out of the woods. “I’m not opposed to all development,” she said. “I want our little area to remain quiet and peaceful. We need our little pockets of green space here and there to be protected.” Zlatkiss did not respond to repeated attempts seeking comment. To view the petition, visit tinyurl.com/Walkers-Pond. Contact Zak Kerr at zkerr@orangeobserver.com.

SUNBURN CAUSES CANCER FREE FREESkin Skin Screening Screening through through November February

It’s time to get checked Water’s Edge Dermatology • Windermere Call for an appointment • Use code: WIND

Adult and Pediatric Dermatology • Diseases of the Skin, Hair & Nails • Skin Cancer Detection & Treatment • Cosmetic Services •

S Hiawassee Rd

•S

s Medic

ine for You

in r Sk

•

Conroy Windermere Rd Fawn Ridge Rd

Hidden Springs Blvd

Dr Phillips Blvd

Turkey Lake Rd

erio u

BMW

Independent Repair Facility

Windermere Office 7605 Conroy Windermere Road

321.732.8150

wederm.com Email: info@wederm.com

SUMMER SPECIAL

FREE TIMING BELT

With timing belt package on applicable vehicles. Call for details.

Your Local European Auto Repair Specialist.

info@importsprofessionalauto.com

The patient and any other person responsible for payment has the right to refuse to pay, cancel payment or be reimbursed for payment for any other service, examination or treatment which is performed as a result of and within 72 hours of responding to the advertisement for the free, discounted fee or reduced service fee, service, examination or treatment.

196724

www.ImportsProfessionalAuto.com

352.432.3934 321-A E. WASHINGTON ST • CLERMONT, FL 34715

196214

We are experts in every aspect of auto repair for imported Asian and European vehicles. Our technicians possess extensive knowledge of a wide range of specialties and always place customer satisfaction as a top priority on every job.

•S • erio in us M e r Sk dicine for You

WINDERMERE OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2016

Waiting For The Next Big Breakthrough In Hearing Aids?

P O T S G N I T WAI

Special Event

5 DAYS ONLY February 22-26

See inside for details 193921

FT-SPAD0114115543

WINDERMERE OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2016

It’s Here! The New Revolutionary TM

Pro

• Enjoy conversations from all directions, even from behind • Distracting noises (like fans and dishwashers) fade into the background • Effortless phone conversations • AUTOMATIC, hands-free, no accessories needed

Try the New Pro for 1 Week Absolutely FREE TM

Naturally Simple Wireless Accessories

Factory Authorized Dealer Appointments Are Limited www.floridamedicalhearing.com

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

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

193922

WINDERMERE OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2016

The Next Line of The smallest performance ITE onAIDS... the market SUPER HEARING cape NOT included

smallest performance ITE on the market 7 DayThe Free Trial YOU DECIDE Hearing matters

5-DAY SPECIAL EVENT 7 Day Free Trial YOU DECIDE

Hearing matters

Monday, Feb. 22nd through Friday, Feb. 26th

5-DAY SPECIAL EVENT We’ll test you for Monday, Feb. 22nd through Friday, Feb. 26th FREE and fit We’ll test you for you with FREE and fit you with

Dr. JohnDr. McElmurry John McElmurry

Dr. Dan Troast Dr. Dan Troast

Doctors of Audiology Doctors of Audiology

to try for to try for77 days days absolutely absolutely FREE. FREE.

0% Interest with approved credit on select models

SPECIAL

Hearing Aid

Zinc Air

Repair

Any make or model with 6 mo. warranty. Expires 3/31/16.

49¢

Batteries

(4pk)

Limit 2 pk. per person. Expires 3/31/16.

FREE

Hearing Aid Battery Tester with every appointment for your free, no obligation hearing test.

FREE

Hearing Aid Analysis Analyze your present hearing aid performance in real life conditions with the state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment. (Reg. Value $89) 193924

FT-SPAD0114135851

WINDERMERE OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2016

TOO EXPENSIVE

It’s time to confront the elephant in the room.

E N O Y R E V E MUMBLES

VE A H Y L N O I TROUBLEY IN NOISENTS ENVIRONM

HEARING AIDS DON’T WORK

You’re invited to try

for 1 Week Absolutely FREE

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

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

HEARING AID CHECK UP

HEARING EXAM & CONSULTATION No-Obligation

FREE You’re invited to try

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

FREE FREE Moxi for 1 week Absolutely FREE! VIDEO EAR SCAN Make Sure It’s Not Ear Wax.

OTHER DIGITAL SPECIALS

100% Digital Open-Fit BTE (Open Fit Behind-the-Ear) Fits up to 40 db Loss

495

Real Ear Measurements allow the clinician to measure and record the patient’s hearing aids’ $ 990worn. performance while they are actually being

NOW

100% Digital CIC (Completely-inCanal) Fits up to 40 db Loss

100% Micro CIC (Completely-inCanal) Fits up to 40

$395 NOW NOW $495 NOW $595 $ $395 $ $ FREE LIMITEDFREE TIME SPECIALFREE

395

100% Digital ITE (In-the-Ear) Fits up to 40 db Loss

Was - $1190

HEARING AID CHECK UP

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

Was - $790

1190

595

Our Video otoscope can detect if ear wax may be the reason you$ are 1190 experiencing hearing difficulty.

Was - $990

HEARING EXAM & CONSULTATION No-Obligation

Was - $1190

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

395

595

OTHER DIGITAL SPECIALS 100% Digital Open-Fit BTE

(Open Fit Behindthe-Ear) to 40 db Ytango - OTE Fits withupmicrophone and Loss receiver in the canal - where they should be

100% Digital ITE

(In-the-Ear) Fits up to 40 db Loss

100% Digital CIC

(Completely-inCanal) Fits up to 40 db Qleaf Pro Loss World’s smallest instant fit CIC

PPOINTMENTS ARE LIMITED Virtually Invisible Call Today for Your 30 Day Trial NOW NOW NOW Was - $1190 Was - $790 Was - $990

$395Available $395at Exclusively LIMITED Factory Authorized Dealer

$495

TIME SPECIAL

Appointments Are Limited www.floridamedicalhearing.com

100% Micro CIC

(Completely-inCanal) Fits up to 40 db Loss

$595

NOW Was - $1190

395

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

www.hearingaidtruth.com Ytango - OTE with microphone and

Our professional staff of Doctors of Aud Board Certiﬁed Hearing Aid Special Audioprosthologist Qleaf Proand 193925

790

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2016

ARTS + CULTURE QUICK HITS FRIDAY, FEB. 19

CINEMA UNDER THE STARS 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, Feb. 19 at The Grove Orlando, 4744 Apopka Vineland Road, Orlando. The movie of the evening is “Minions.”

“I’ve been here for 12 years. We’ve done some very large-scale shows here. This, by far, is the largest.” — Jeff Perino, assistant director

Viviana Uribe as Mrs. Brill and Jeremy Holder as Robertson Ay.

2 spoonfuls of sugar

CRENSHAW AT CROOKED CAN BREWING COMPANY 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, Feb. 19 at Crooked Can Brewing Company, 426 W. Plant St., Winter Garden. Folk singers Steven and Sarah Cardwell bring their original songs and covers to Crooked Can for an evening of music and drinks.

SATURDAY, FEB. 20

BLUES ON THE PLAZA 6 to 9 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 20 at Centennial Plaza, 56 W. Plant St., Winter Garden. Enjoy blues music as TC Carr and Bolts of Blue serenade you. (407) 656-4111, Ext. 5481.

SUNDAY, FEB. 21

LAKEFRONT FARMERS MARKET AT SUMMERPORT VILLAGE

10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 21 at Summerport Village, 13790 Bridgewater Crossings Blvd., Windermere. Buy from 24 different vendors at the opening of the Lakefront Farmers Market at Summerport Village.

RAVE OF THE WEEK

Paris Terry as Michael Banks, Savannah Goncalves as Mary Poppins and Julia Kaufman as Jane Banks.

Dr. Phillips High School will stage its most ambitious production ever with not one — but two — casts. JENNIFER NESSLAR STAFF WRITER

hen Oliver Davids first participated in musical theater, he

was living in England and was cast as Bert in “Mary Poppins.” So for Davids, now a junior at Dr. Phillips High School, it’s sentimental that he is playing Bert in “Mary Poppins,” which Photos by Jennifer Nesslar

Oliver Davids as Bert, Payton Croskey and Bryanah Austin dance in “Jolly Holliday.”

opens Thursday, Feb. 18, at Dr. Phillips High School.

SEE STORY ON PAGE 14

SEAN O’NEILL “Rave — Breakfast steak and egg sandwich at Get Hooked Bait and Tackle. We had Rodney Hillerich on as a professional last year. What some might not know is he has Donut King doughnuts brought in every morning. My brother is up from Jensen Beach. He follows this page and was dying to try one of those maple bacon doughnuts. So we headed down to Get Hooked Bait and Tackle and Marine. He is located in Ocoee. As luck would have it, when we got there, he had three maple bacon doughnuts left. What we didn’t know was that he has a little diner inside. Maddie is the new lady brought in to bring this little diner to life. They have a simple menu for breakfast and lunch items. I ordered the breakfast steak-and-egg sandwich. It was amazing! Some regulars were sitting at the counter and told me about an amazing breakfast burrito that Maddie makes from scratch. I will be trying that tomorrow. Good job, guys.”

WINDERMERE OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2016

787 W. Montrose St, Clermont, FL

Let’s go fly a kite

Erika’s Tearoom & Gifts, Inc. www.erikastearoom.com

••• DON’T MISS •••

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 13

ST. PATRICKS DAY BEER & TEA TASTING

Friday, Mar. 12 @ 6pm • Thursday, Mar. 17 @ 1pm Includes: Enjoy a 6-course dinner with complimenting teas.

Please visit Erikastearoom.com for more details.

Reservations required. Call

908-670-2305

196170

• Irish Soda Bread Scones with Celtic Cream Tea • Creamed Cabbage with Magner’s Cider • Reuben Slider with Irish Blend Tea $35/person • Guiness Beer Cheese Dip with Guiness • Potato Casserole with a Lemon Drop Beer • Chocolate Mint Cheesecake with Murphy’s Irish Stout

brazilian blowout Hours: Mon-Closed. Tues-Sat 10-5 store, 11-4 Tea Room. Sunday 9-3 Store, 11-2 Tea Room

175

8014 Via Dellagio Way • Dr. Phillips (Next to Flemings Steak House and Urbain 40)

How have you enjoyed the experience of playing Mary Poppins?

IF YOU GO

“Mary Poppins has always been really close to me and my family,” Davids said. “Just the story and really the essence of the film. It’s just always been a part of my life. So to finally bring (Bert) to life on stage, it’s such a great feeling.” Davids isn’t the only one who gets to enjoy playing the part of Bert. Many key roles in the play were double-casted into Broadway and West End casts, because of the amount of talent available in the play. Jesse Valcich, a sophomore at Dr. Phillips, also feels a similar sense of nostalgia for the part, back to his childhood when he would watch “Mary Poppins” with his mother, who was a fan of Julie Andrews. “I thought his character was amazing,” said Valcich, who performs Bert as part of the Broadway Cast. “He came on with all the instruments, and he just made everyone laugh — he made me laugh when I was 4.” The cast isn’t the only oversized aspect of the production. The lighting, special effects and the technical side of the play also pop. At one point in the show, Mary Poppins soars over the audience. Lighting and assistant director Kelly Lemos is excited

DR. PHILLIPS HIGH SCHOOL PRESENTS “MARY POPPINS”

“My favorite experience is working with Jesse (Valcich) and the two kids, Ryleigh (Lawton) and Andrew (Knoblich). That’s probably the best part, and I’m excited for it to happen. This has been one of my dream roles since I was a kid, so it’s cool to play it on stage.”

TICKETS: $10 to $25 depending on seating location. BROADWAY CAST: 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 18, and Saturday, Feb. 20; 3 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 21 WEST END CAST: 7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 19; 10 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 20. The Saturday, Feb. 20 matinee is followed by Tea with Mary Poppins, where children can meet Mary Poppins and enjoy some refreshments, take pictures and create crafts.

— Maddy Montz, junior, Broadway Cast

“(Mary Poppins) is so witty but in a matter-of-fact way. It’s been such a struggle not playing her sarcastic but just matter-of-fact. And working with the kids, of course. It’s interesting to see how kids do in a setting like this, because it’s so weird for them.”

about lighting called the Impression X4, flood lights that can create pictures as well. Even making the set and the transitions run smoothly is a dance in itself. “It’s a beautiful set … it’s huge,” said Director Roberta Emerson. “The backstage choreography is going to be just as tricky as the on-stage choreography.” Overall, the show is a large undertaking — even for Dr. Phillips High School, which is known for its theater magnet. “I’ve been here for 12 years,” said Jeff Perino, an assistant director of Mary Poppins. “We’ve done some very large-scale shows here. This, by far, is the largest.”

— Savannah Goncalves, senior, West End Cast

Contact Jennifer Nesslar at jnesslar@orangeobserver.com.

195397

Reg. $250. Select Stylist

MEET THE MARYS

PRESENTS

196995

You. Your Neighbors. Your Neighborhood.

• G N I S O SALE CL

STORE

Showcasing renowned fine artists such as Highwaymen and Alana O’Hern and Father Valdemar and over 40 fine artists, surrounded by music, food and fun for the whole family.

50% to 90% OFF

FREE TO THE PUBLIC • PET FRIENDLY

DRESSES JEWELRY SHOES BABY CLOTHING LADIES ACCESSORIES FLORALS TY PLUSH TOYS

GREETING CARDS

We Design, Print & Promote… YOU!

407-654-3744

196151

We Design, Print & Promote… YOU!

407-654-3744 We Design, Print & Promote… YOU! We Design, Print & Promote… YOU! 407-654-3744 407-654-3744 Down Town Business Committee Event

BECKETT’SLLCEMPORIUM

90% OFF

196952

•

Saturday, February 20 • 11 am - 6 pm

*ALL SALES FINAL* HISTORIC DOWNTOWN OCOEE 114 W. McKey St • 407-654-8376

WINDERMERE OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2016

Cliff Collins, 5, was looking sharp in his bow tie.

MetroWest Elementary girls hit the dance floor early.

MetroWest Elementary families boogie at Sweetheart Dance

etroWest Elementary School students and families enjoyed an unforgettable evening Feb. 12 at the school’s annual Sweetheart Dance. Mothers, fathers, sons and daughters filled the cafeteria for a love-filled family affair. Kids flocked to the dance floor to shake it to a plethora of pop tunes, compete in fun games and celebrate Valentine’s Day early with their friends and family. — MICHAEL ENG

The dance DJ led several fun contests, including this toilet-paper mummy challenge.

Left: Callie Peterson, 7, was ready to party.

197440

See more photos at OrangeObserver.com

196992

ONLINE

Above: Brooke Williams, left, Brooke Deaton and Alyssa Snyder loved dancing together.

WINDERMERE OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2016

RICK LARSON LAW

Richard S. Larson, Attorney at Law

Employment & Human Resources Free Consultations

407-877-7115

310 S. Dillard St., Ste. 100 • Winter Garden, FL 34787 195387

www.ricklarsonlaw.com COVERED WITH THE COLORS OF SPRING?

Damon Fowler was the second performer to hit the stage.

Rhythm and Ribs

407.877.0184

Blair M. Johnson

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

Proudly serving West Orange County for over 35 years.

www.blairjohnsonlaw.com

IT’S ALL

Dr. Phillips Huntington Learning Center Announces

IMPORTANT

College Scholarship Sweepstakes

Children. Work. Friends. But when a loved one has

Orlando, Fl. Jan 16 2016 – The Dr. Phillips Huntington Learning Center announced the opening of its College Scholarship Sweepstakes this week, which is scheduled to end on March 31 2016. The winner will receive a $500 scholarship toward future college tuition and fees.

196281

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

—JENNIFER NESSLAR AND DANIELLE HENDRIX

Elena King, 3, enjoyed the festival in style. Her family decks out the wagon for holidays and events in Winter Garden.

Alzheimer’s…

our In-Home Senior Care will help make sure nothing falls through the cracks. See for yourself how In-Home Care from Senior Helpers can help you help them live a more enjoyable senior life.

High school students aged 14 and older are eligible to enter, as are parents, grandparents, and friends of high school students attending college after graduation. Entries are submitted via text message.

Request our free, no obligation DVD: “Supporting Family Members with Dementia.”

For a chance to win $500, text “500” to 84444! In addition to the Dr. Phillips center, over 200 other Huntington Learning Centers across the country participate in Huntington’s College Scholarship Sweepstakes.

SeniorHelpers.com/Orlando

CALL TODAY!

And schedule your FREE In-Home assessment

407-818-1292

Serving Orange, Seminole & Osceola Counties. HHA# 299993681

Come Join Our Support Groups for Alzheimer’s Dementia

Comever... o c s i D

Family support groups can be an inviting opportunity to gain strength and understanding through the difficulties of the aging process. Come join our following events:

Wednesday, February 24 at 1:30 p.m. Thursday, March 10 at 1:30 p.m. Assisted Living & Memory Care

352.366.3102

1601 Hooks Street • Clermont, FL 34711 CranesViewLodge.com

196592

www.MollyMaid.com

New customers only. Participating locations only. Some restrictions may apply.

he smell of barbecue drifted strong through the air in downtown Winter Garden on Feb. 13, where the city hosted the fifth annual Winter Garden Blues and BBQ festival. Three Florida blues bands — the Betty Fox Band, the Damon Fowler Group and Selwyn Birchwood — took the stage throughout the evening. Nine vendors sold their fares, which included barbecue, beer, wine and roasted nuts.

197702

10%

OFF ANY SERVICE 196987

DON’T SWEAT SPRING CLEANING.

MOLLY MAID OF WEST ORANGE COUNTY

196278

A SPLASH OF PINK WILL TAKE CARE OF THAT.

WE’RE MAID FOR THIS.

Photo by Danielle Hendrix

AL License #12546

WINDERMERE OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2016

IN YOUR WORDS

How would you describe the perfect barbecue?

— Aaron Winkler

What food did you enjoy the most at the festival?

• Power • Vinyasa • Yin • Kundalini

TYPES OF CLASSES OFFERED:

• Chair/Senior • Stretch • Couples • Chi

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

Stu

• Meditation • Stress Relief • Tai Chi • Stroller Yoga

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

407-448-0244 Anne McDonough, Owner

www.tranquilitiwellnesscenter.com

Amanda Silva enjoyed the music with her dog Nala.

dio

195403

“I like smokey, not vinegar-y, a little heat to it — spicy, not too sweet.”

Cla

F ss

/tranquilitiwellnesscenterandSpa

503 Main Street • Windermere, Fl 34786

4,798

CONGRATULATIONS!

“The catfish dinner from So Southern Soul. It was really fresh, and everybody was really friendly there.”

The estimated attendance of this year’s festival

Cary L. Moss, Esq.

— Suzanne Zeien

1,745

The amount of meat, in pounds, prepared for this year’s festival

Cary L. Moss is an Elder Law Attorney with the law firm of Sawyer & Sawyer, P.A. She practices law with her husband, Tom Moss, and her mother, Carolyn H. Sawyer, and serves as the firm’s Managing Partner. Cary is a native of Orlando and currently resides in Windermere with her husband Tom and their two sons, Hunter and Parker.

Cary has been given the distinction of being “AV Rated” by Martindale Hubbell through its Peer Review Program. Additionally, she has been selected by Orlando Home & Leisure Magazine as “One of Orlando’s Top Lawyers”.

The number of kegs of beer

The number of barbecue options at this year’s festival

ONLINE

“Just listening to the music close to home on a beautiful night.” Photos by Jennifer Nesslar

— Kathy Thompson

The Betty Fox Band brought its soulful sounds to this year’s Blues and BBQ festival.

To see more photos from Blues & BBQ, visit OrangeObserver.com

Keep your

SYSTEM

running great with a

Areas of Practice Long Term Care Planning, Estate Planning, Guardianship, Probate, Trust Administration, and Special Needs Trust Education University of Florida, B.A. Liberal Arts - 1994 Stetson University College of Law, Juris Doctor - 1998 Bar Admissions Florida Bar Professional Associations and Memberships The Florida Bar - Elder Law Section Orange County Bar Association - Estate, Guardianship & Trust Law Subcommittee Academy of Florida Elder Law Attorneys - Board of Directors, President National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys Academy of Special Needs Planner

197464

BY THE NUMBERS

PROFESSIONAL CONNECTION

Tune Up $

7495

NO INTEREST UNTIL JANUARY 2020* *Regular APR is 27.99% for newly opened accounts. APR may vary. Subject to credit approval. Offer expires on qualifying units purchased before May 31, 2015. CMCO 56836

About Community Health Centers, Inc.

PROFESSIONAL CONNECTION 2 col (3.72”) wide by 2.5” Tall

24 weeks ................$100.00 per week *Exclusive offer. Must be 24 week commitment

Call or email us for details!

We are a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) organization that began our operations in 1972 in Apopka. CHC has voluntarily chosen to be accredited by the prestigious Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care Inc. and are covered under the Federal Tort Claims Act (FTCA). Employing more than 450 staff members, our centers offer Family Medicine, Pediatric Medicine, Internal Medicine, OB/GYN, Optometry, Dental, Low-Cost Pharmacy and Behavioral Health.

We’re Hiring Visit www.chcfl.org/jobs for a list of open positions. Currently, we have openings for LPNs, Medical Assistants, Dental Assitants, Patient Service Reps, Call Center Nurses, Facilities Technician and more. Apply Today!

QUESTIONS? Do you have any questions for the professionals on this page? Email your questions to AdvertiseNow@OrangeObserver.com and we will send them to these professionals to answer. For more Information about the Professional Connection call 407-656-2121 or email AdvertiseNow@wotimes.com

Circulation: 15,000

196798

Community Health Centers, Inc., (CHC) provides quality and compassionate primary healthcare services to insured, uninsured, underinsured, and underserved children and adults within Central Florida. We accept Medicaid, Medicare and most private insurance plans. A Sliding Discount Program, based on family size and income, is available for those with or without insurance. CHC provides care to 60,000 patients in the Apopka, Bithlo, Eatonville, Lake Ellenor, Leesburg, Meadow Woods, Pine Hills, Rosemont, South Lake, Tavares and Winter Garden communities. To make an appointment or to find a CHC center nearest you, please call 407-905-8827 or visit www.chcfl.org.

WINDERMERE OBSERVER

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2016

OrangeObserver.com

196434

WINDERMERE OBSERVER

Born Jan. 3, 1933, in Wakulla County, Florida, Sharon Elizabeth Winter was adopted in Jacksonville by Henry Kenneth and Alpha Michael Winter. She died peacefully Feb. 11, 2016, after a brief illness. Sharon was a lover of animals and plants and worked with horses around the area. She enjoyed working around the family property on Lake Apopka

MORRIS DEAN RICHARDS MORRIS DEAN RICHARDS DIED FEB. 10, 2016

Morris Dean Richards, 77, of Ocoee, passed away on Wednesday, Feb. 10, 2016. He was born Oct. 15, 1938, in Winter Garden, Florida. Survived by his wife, Sarah Ruth (Rorabaugh) Richards; four children, Cheryl (Ed) Davidson, Brenda Bass, Beth Freeman and Curtis Richards; eight grandchildren, Joe (Emily) Davidson II, Brittney Bass, Keli Davidson, Megan Bass, Justin Bass, Blaine Freeman, Taylor Richards and CLAIRE SARA BRIONES, 70, of Winter Garden, died Monday, Jan. 25, 2016. Baldwin-Fairchild Funeral Home, Winter Garden Chapel. JIMMY D. DAMON, 76, of Windermere, died Friday, Feb. 5, 2016. Winter Oak Funeral Home & Cremations, Winter Garden. FRANCIS GAVULIC, 80, of Gotha, died Friday, Feb. 5, 2016. Baldwin Brothers – A Funeral & Cremation Society, Apopka.

Braxton Freeman; two greatgrandchildren, Joseph Davidson III and Grant Davidson; and five siblings, John (Maggie) Richardson, Eddie Richardson, Helen (George) Elian, Billy (Jonelle) Richardson and Gail (Tim) Ellison. Preceded in death by his parents, John B and Mazie Richardson; and grandparents, James and Sophie Richards. Viewing at DeGusipe Funeral Home Ocoee from 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, Feb. 26, 2016. Service at 10 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 27, 2016, at First United Methodist Church, Winter Garden.

“We have the largest chapel in West Orange County” Owned and operated by the Romano Family.

407-614-8350

rian Church, Oakland, Florida, or Houndhaven of Minneola, Florida. Arrangements entrusted to Baldwin Fairchild Funeral Home, Winter Garden. www. baldwinfairchild.com.

“That’s My Wish” 750.00

Direct Cremation for: Call for details

Use of our newly renovated “Celebration of Life” reception room included with selected funeral packages

196306

SHARON ELIZABETH WINTER DIED FEB. 11, 2016.

and, in later years, looked forward to weekly trips to visit at the Winter Garden Feed store. Sharon was preceded in death by her mother; father; stepmother, Dora Good Winter; and brother, Kenneth Sherrell Winter. She is survived by her stepsister, Caroline Henriksen, of Denmark; and nieces, Cynthia Winter, Sandra Winter Barclay and Donna Winter Richter. Private family services have been held. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations to the H K. Winter Scholarship Fund at Oakland Presbyte-

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2016

www.winteroakfuneralhome.com 1132 E. Plant Street, Winter Garden Florida 34787 LIC #F080822

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to American Cancer Society, Vitas Healthcare, Alzheimer Research or an organization of your choice.

WHEELER DAVID GIBSON JR., 75, of Winter Garden, died Friday, Jan. 29, 2016. Loomis Family Funeral Home, Apopka.

CHRISTIAN LAMARR JONES, 16, of Winter Garden, died Sunday, Feb. 7, 2016. Postell’s Mortuary, Orlando.

HENRY V. “HANK” JANECKA, 88, of Winter Garden, died Saturday, Feb. 6, 2016. Woodlawn Funeral Home, Gotha.

GLORIA ANN KANE, 86, of Winter Garden, died Thursday, Jan. 21, 2016. Cremation Choices, Minneola.

ANTONIO LeSHAY JONES, 34, of Winter Garden, died Sunday, Feb. 7, 2016. Postell’s Mortuary, Orlando.

GRACE VUOTTO, 93, of Winter Garden, died Tuesday, Feb. 9, 2016. Collison Carey Hand Funeral Home, Winter Garden Chapel.

Baldwin Fairchild Funeral Home Winter Garden

(407)695-CARE (2273)

Family owned & operated 1400 Matthew Paris Blvd. “Because you care” Ocoee, FL 34761 Cremation, Funeral and Burial Maitland Sanford Starting at West $795Orange

(407)695-CARE (2273)

www.DeGusipeFuneralhome.com

Family owned & operated 1400 Matthew Paris Blvd. • Ocoee, FL 34761 Maitland | Sanford | West Orange

Shopping for a mortgage? We have a great selection.

Jo Barsh, Agent State Farm Agent 317 West Road Ocoee, FL 34761 Bus: 407-299-0301 196288

We are Proud to offer: • A Celebration of Life Service • Traditional Burial and Cremation Services • Prearranged Funeral Services

“Because “We will honor any you care” pre-arrangement plans Cremation, Funeral and Burial with other funeral homes including butStarting not limited to:at $795 Forethought, Simplicity Plan, Memorial Guardian, NGL and many other FRANK SCARLATA www.DeGusipeFuneralhome.com West Orange Chapel pre-arrangement plans.” Funeral Director & Manager

196294

SHARON ELIZABETH WINTER

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

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

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

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

196291

WEST ORANGE OBITUARIES

OrangeObserver.com

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

1001306.1

We are pleased to announce our continued support for Hospice of the Comforter and Vitas Hospice in Orlando.

To honor these dedicated people for the great care and comfort they bring to the patients and their families. The Carey Hand Family of Funeral Homes has made these donations to Hospice of the Comforter and Vitas Hospice.

w w w. c o l l i s o n c a r e y h a n d . c o m 1/4pg CareyHand.Hospice’16

Presented to Jillian Madsen of Vistas Hospice and department managers along with Dennis Sparks (General Manager) and funeral staff

Collison • 1148 E. Plant St. • 407-877-6700 Colonial • 2811 East Curry Ford Rd. • 407-898-2561 Cox-Parker • 1350 West Fairbanks Ave. • 407-647-1942

w w w. c a r e y h a n d c o l o n i a l c h a p e l . c o m

w w w. c a r e y h a n d c o x p a r k e r. c o m

197463

Presented to Ernesto Lopez & Claire Hogan of Hospice of the Comforter along with Dennis Sparks (General Manager) and funeral staff

WINDERMERE OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2016

Health & Wellness Expo Saturday, February 27, 2016 10am-4pm

First of multiple Health and Wellness Expos to be hosted throughout West Orange communities!

You are invited to a FREE community Health and Wellness Expo.

At...

Fun for the Entire Family!

Special Guests & Celebrity Appearances!

• FREE Health Screenings • FREE Prizes and Giveaways Hourly • FREE Exciting Healthy Activities Including Cooking and Fitness Demonstrations • Great Vendors • DJ, Entertainment & More! For more information visit: HealthyWestOrange.org Little League Teams!!! Stop by the West Oaks Mall Saturday, February 27th and VOTE for YOUR Little League. The league with the most votes can win $750.00 to be used for equipment, field improvement etc. Visit Winter Garden Squeeze booth vote, take a practice swing in the batting cage, talk with some of the Squeeze team, and win prizes! CHAMPIONED BY:

Attention Schools Public and Private Elementary, Middle and High School

Register and Win ... Take the Healthy West Orange Pledge by February 26th at 5 pm. Your school will be in the drawing for a $1000.00 Grant from the West Orange Healthcare District. Drawing for the winning school will be held at the Health & Wellness Expo at West Oaks Mall on the February 27th. SPONSORED IN PART BY:

196855

FEBRUARY 18, 2016

SIDELINES

SPORTS DP girls place third Within a 75-team field, the Dr. Phillips girls wrestling team placed third at the Florida Girls Wrestling State Championships Feb. 13. Panthers freshman Jamaris Vargas pinned Evans’ Biverlie D’Haity at 4:50 of the third period to win the 128-pound state title. She completed the tournament with a 4-0 record. Dr. Phillips’ freshman class was impressive at the state meet, with all six competitors earning valuable team points. Shedeline Ulysse earned a state runner-up medal at 197 pounds.

Lakers sweep Invitational

Raychel Trocki plated the winning run for Dr. Phillips, powering the Panthers to an 8-7 victory Feb. 9 at Ocoee. Page 22

Davis powers WPS to uncharted waters Senior guard Parker Davis scored a game-high 31 points to lead Windermere Prep past Santa Fe Catholic 96-58 in the regional semifinals. STEVEN RYZEWSKI SENIOR SPORTS EDITOR WINDERMERE Parker

Davis knows his time with Windermere Prep — and as a varsity basketball player, in general — is running short. Perhaps that is what motivated the dynamic senior guard for the Lakers to score a game-high 31 points Feb. 16 in leading Windermere Prep past previously undefeated Santa Fe Catholic 96-58 in the Class 3A Regional Semifinals. With the win, Davis and his teammates are taking the program to a regional champion-

ship for the first time. “That’s all (Parker has) said and that’s his focus — ‘I want states,’” head coach Ben Wilson said. “He doesn’t mention anything about his own personal goals or his recruiting or anything. When you talk to him, all he talks about is ‘I want to lead my team to states.’” Five players for the Lakers (24-5) finished in double figures: David Nickelberry had 15 points to pair with 14 rebounds, Xion Golding tallied 11 points and eight rebounds, Yassen

Windermere Prep’s Parker Davis scored a gamehigh 31 points for the Lakers Feb. 16. Courtesy of

SEE LAKERS PAGE 22

Nate Marrero

The Windermere Prep baseball team dominated the competition in its opening week of play, competing in the Ocoee Invitational. The Lakers (3-0) defeated Legacy 12-2, Wekiva 4-0 and Ocoee 4-0 in the three-game event. For his stellar glove work at shortstop, Julio Montes was named the event’s most valuable player.

Panthers girls hoops falls Dr. Phillips girls basketball came one game short of advancing to Lakeland for the Final Four for the first time since 2013. The Panthers (14-16) fell to Vero Beach 57-26 in the regional championship Feb. 12, ending their season. Dr. Phillips, which did not make the state playoffs in 2014-15, started the season with a 3-12 record before winning 11 of its next 15 games to end the season on a positive note.

Titans net pair of wins After a loss to Haines City to open the season, the Olympia baseball team bounced back with a pair of wins over Lake Minneola and Osceola. The Titans defeated the Kowboys 8-5 Feb. 13, sparked by three RBI from Francis Villaman. Villaman went 3-for-4 at the plate on the day. Will Harrison got the win on the mound.

Steven Ryzewski

Dr. Phillips seniors Tanner May, left, Chris Moore, Ruben Saldana and Chase Cheek are hopeful for another playoff appearance this spring.

Proud Panthers Inspired by the tradition of Dr. Phillips baseball, this year’s team — especially its seniors — is eager to improve and peak just in time to make the playoffs for a sixth consecutive season. STEVEN RYZEWSKI SENIOR SPORTS EDITOR

ike Bradley isn’t phased when his Dr. Phillips baseball team gets off to a slow start. The Panthers are 1-2 so far this spring, including two sound defeats to open the season at a weeklong event at Lake Brantley, but the veteran head coach has seen this before.

In 2014, Dr. Phillips got off to a 1-4 start but finished 17-11 and made the state playoffs — as it has in each of the past five seasons dating back to 2011. In 2015, the Panthers were 3-5 before coming together to finish 15-13 and, again, made the state playoffs. This spring, Bradley has a relatively inexperienced roster — particularly among his pitching

staff. But that doesn’t mean it is a roster that lacks talent. As has been the modus operandi for the club the past few years, the idea is that — behind the leadership of seniors such as Chase Cheek, Tanner May, Chris Moore and Ruben Saldana — this team will get better as the season progresses and peak just SEE DP PAGE 22

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

WINDERMERE OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2016

DP eyes improvement

SPONSORED BY SHANNON TILL STATE FARM IN FOWLER GROVES

Raychel Trocki Rachel Trocki plated the winning run for Dr. Phillips softball with an extra-innings single through the box Feb. 9 at Ocoee, powering the Panthers to an 8-7 victory — their first of the season and the team’s first under new coach Mike Gale. She went 3-for-5 in the game and allowed just one earned run as the pitcher, too.

When did you start playing softball? When I was 10 and in fourth grade, my teacher put me into this program for academics. If you win, you get to go to a baseball game. I won, so I went to a baseball game and then started playing baseball. But the only local league was the West Orange Girls Club, which was softball, so I started playing that one. What is your favorite part of softball? Batting. I love hitting and being able to beat the pitcher, ironically. Could you take us through your hit that scored the winning run at Ocoee? A couple games before that, I had a little bit of a lull in hitting, so I practiced a lot. For the game-winning hit, Nini (Underwood) was on third, and I was like, ‘You know

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 21

THE BASICS

Height: 5-foot-6 Year: Ninth grade Positions: P, OF Bats: Right Throws: Right Birthdate: Nov. 14, 2000

what, this is it — just got to make contact and let it go.’ The pitch came, and I took it where it needed to go, up the middle. What is it like to be relied on as a ninth-grader? It was a little scary at first, because we’re playing West Orange — we’re playing the big superpowers down here. But with my defense behind me, my team makes it easier to be able to rely on them as much as they rely on me. What do you like to do in free time? I love reading. I read a lot of different books — every book I can get my hand on I read. There’s a series called “The Naturals” that I read; I finished “Harry Potter.” “The Naturals” is a book about these five teenagers who don’t go to a high school. They work for the FBI and go to a private one (there). That’s what I want to do: I want to work in the FBI when I get older. They use their natural instincts to catch killers and bad people. They’re in high school, so it’s trying to balance both of them. What else interests you in the FBI? I like to be able to understand what people think and why they think it, so like psychology. What is your favorite color? I like blue just because I’ve always loved blue. My room is painted blue; my high school team’s blue. Every time someone asked me when I was little what is my favorite color, it’s just blue, blue, blue. I never really changed it. What chore do you like the least and why? Dishes. I don’t like cleaning them and touching the food. My own I can deal with, but other people’s food that’s been in their mouth is not something I want to touch.

in time for the district tournament in mid-April. “You always want to be playing your best ball at the end of the season,” Bradley said. “That’s kind of how we’ve always done it at Dr. Phillips. We’re trying to figure out who we are at the beginning, trying to plug in the right guys, and then by the end of the season play our best brand of baseball.” The confidence of their head coach, who has five playoff appearances during his seven years leading the program, has translated to the players. Moore, an FAU signee, believes he and his teammates will be playing their best ball by season’s end. “I do believe that we have a chance to turn it on by the district tournament,” Moore said. “We’ve got a lot of inexperienced players now, but as the season progresses, they’ll get more comfortable.” With alumni such as Johnny Damon, Brian Barber, Danny Miceli and A.J. Pierzynski and a state title to its credit in 1996, the program at Dr. Phillips has plenty of tradition and Bradley makes sure that upkeeping that legacy is an inspiration to his players.

“At the end of the day, it’s all about getting out of your district and regional appearances. We’re right up there with the best in that regard.” — Mike Bradley

“Historically, Dr. Phillips has been a program that is one of the top in the nation and top in the state in Florida, year after year,” Bradley said. “At the end of the day, it’s all about getting out of your district and regional appearances. We’re right up there with the best in that regard.” Despite the program’s success while this senior class has been on campus, there has been a rather large roadblock in the Panthers’ way each time they’ve made the playoffs — Olympia. The Titans, who have spent time in each of the past two seasons ranked as the top program in the country, have ended Dr. Phillips’ season in the regional playoffs in 2013, 2014 and 2015. Besting their rival down the road will be just one point of

motivation for the Panthers as they look to improve in the next two months. Moore is playing for Dr. Phillips on the field but is still rehabbing from a bicep injury that will keep him off the mound for the next few weeks. When he returns, the hope is that the combination of him and Ryan Goonen at the top of the rotation and the growth of the younger players in the bullpen will have the Panthers ready to face off with Boone, Freedom, Cypress Creek and Oak Ridge in the district tournament. “High school baseball, if you’ve got one arm, you’ve got a chance, and if you’ve got two arms, you’ve got a heck of a chance to advance,” Bradley said. Helping to bring along the younger members of the staff will be veteran catcher Ruben Saldana, whom Bradley considers to be the team’s captain and leader. One thing is for sure: This is a club full of players who are proud to be Panthers. “We’ve continued the tradition that is Dr. Phillips baseball,” Bradley said. Contact Steven Ryzewski at sryzewski@orangeobserver.com.

Lakers to host Tampa Prep CONTINUED FROM PAGE 21

Aratius added 16 points, and Mitchell Siegel chipped in 12 points. The team effort was evidence of Windermere Prep’s preparation for an opponent it did not take lightly. “They obviously had our attention; they hadn’t lost a game yet,” Wilson said. “We had full focus for three days of practice, and by the time it was tipoff, we had prepared so much and watched film. We were ready to get out there and get after it.” The Lakers now will prepare to host Tampa Prep (19-10) at 7 p.m. Saturday. The program is just one game away from a trip to The Lakeland Center for the Class 3A Final Four. The winner of Saturday’s game will compete in the Class 3A State Semifinals at either 6 p.m. or 8 p.m. Feb. 23. “It means a lot,” Wilson said.

Family. Family. Friends. Friends. Community. Community.

“We’re taking this one game at a time. … The ultimate goal is to get to Lakeland.” CFCA COMES UP JUST SHORT AGAINST OCP

The third meeting this season between district rivals CFCA and Orlando Christian Prep came in the form of a winnertake-all showdown in the Class 2A Regional Semifinals. Although the Eagles led for most of the first half and battled valiantly against the Warriors, OCP’s size in the front court and ability to control the game through rebounds proved to be the difference as the Warriors ended CFCA’s season with a 67-62 result. The Eagles were led by an impressive showing from sophomore guard Dante Treacy, who scored a game-high 26 points. Junior Jacob Newman had 17 points and eighth-grader Visual Russell scored 15 points for CFCA (17-12).

In the regional quarterfinals Feb. 11, senior Jerred Treacy scored 20 points to lead the way for the Eagles to a 68-47 upset over highly ranked Mount Dora Christian Academy. CFCA has enjoyed an incredible turnaround over the past two seasons under head coach Jonathan McClintock. And, though seniors Jerred Treacy and Kyle Milroy will be graduating this spring, the future is still plenty bright for the Eagles with playmakers such as Dante Treacy, Newman and Russell expected to return. “The kids understand we’re building something,” McClintock said. “This year, we brought the program another step forward. Lord willing, people will see that and want to be a part of that, and we’ll be able to continue to grow it.” Contact Steven Ryzewski at sryzewski@orangeobserver.com.

— ZAK KERR

Athlete of the Week Sponsored by...

Family. Friends. Community.

State Farm hasThat’s a longone tradition of being there. reason of being one reason why I’m there. proud That’s to support West why I’m county.. proud to support West Orange Orange Get to acounty.. better State®. Get to a better State . ®

196317

www.shannontill.com

We’re all in this together. We’re all in has thisatogether. State Farm long tradition

Shannon Till, Agent Shannon Till, Agent We’re all in this together. Fowler Groves 3279 Daniels Road Fowler’s Grove 3279• Daniels Rd State Farm® has a long tradition Winter Garden, 34787 Winter Garden, FL FL 34787 Toll TollFree: Free: 855-742-1591 855-742-1591 of being there. That’s one reason www.shannontill.com www.shannontill.com Hablamos Español

why I’m proud to support West 1211007 State Farm, Bloomington, IL Orange county.. 1211007 State Farm, Bloomington, IL ® Get to a better State .

196285

Shannon Till, Agent Fowler’s Grove 3279 Daniels Rd Shannon Till, Agent WinterGrove Garden, FL Daniels 34787 Rd Fowler’s 3279 Toll Free: 855-742-1591 Winter Garden, FL 34787 www.shannontill.com Toll Free: 855-742-1591

WINDERMERE OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

SIDELINE SCENE

Panthers’ remarkable run of 20-win seasons finally comes to end

STEVEN RYZEWSKI SIDELINE SCENE

Something really special came to an end Feb. 11 in Sarasota. That the Dr. Phillips boys basketball team fell in the regional quarterfinals 69-44 to Sarasota’s Riverview Rams, the No. 1 team in the state in Class 8A, wasn’t entirely surprising. The loss, though, left Dr. Phillips with a final record of 19-9 on the year — just one win short of prolonging the program’s incredible streak of seasons with at least 20 victories. That streak, which began with a 27-7 record in the 1993-94 campaign, spanned 22 seasons. Here’s some perspective on that. Before this season, the last time the Panthers had won fewer than 20 games in a season, President Bill Clinton was still in his first term in office. None of the players on this year’s team was born yet. Anthony Long wasn’t even the coach yet — the first nine seasons of the run were coached by Theo McWhite. Also in that period, Dr. Phillips made the Final Four six times. The Panthers have finished as

state runner-up three times. Also, don’t forget the 11 district championships and 12 Metro titles. This is a streak that included players such as Chris Warren, RaShawn “Pookie” Powell and Shane Larkin — among several other standout players. I don’t find it to be a sad occasion as much as just an opportunity to reflect on just how good — and how consistent — this program has been. It’s a level of consistency that has to be traced back to a dedicated coaching staff and an administration that supports it. This season marked the end of the streak, but it doesn’t feel like much of an end, otherwise. During the 2015-16 season, the Panthers overcame preseason transfers of high-profile players and two senior departures midseason to make the state playoffs for an eighth consecutive season. The silver lining is that underclassmen such as Daniel Love, Jaquan Burton and Nick Smith, under the tutelage of lone senior Justin Tucker, got tons of valuable playing experience and — suddenly — Dr. Phillips should be a contender for at least the next two seasons. I’d bet on them winning 20 games next season — and perhaps the one after. And, the way I see it, if over the course of 24 or 25 seasons you post one 19-win campaign, that’s no reason to hang your head low. Most programs would kill for that sort of success.

Steven Ryzewski

Panthers coach Anthony Long has been an important part of the program’s streak of 20-win seasons, which ended this year.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2016

Area prep wrestlers motivated for the mat With the Class 3A, District 2 meet looming Feb. 20, area wrestling coaches and athletes reflect on the work they put in to get to this point in the season. DANIELLE HENDRIX STAFF WRITER WEST ORANGE

As wrestling practice at Olympia High commences, the boys run at varying paces around the small wrestling room — first at a jog, then a full-blown sprint and back down to a cool-off jog. They alternate with lunges, front and back rolls and even practice falling. Wrestling season is coming to a close, with all four varsity teams covered by the West Orange Times & Observer and Windermere Observer preparing for the Class 3A, District 2 meet Feb. 20 at Olympia High, but the training and conditioning that goes into it is not over yet — and the preparation for Saturday’s matches started way back in August. “That’s kind of how highschool sports are in general: You can play it and only do it while it’s in season, but if you want to be any good at it, it’s pretty much a year-round commitment,” said Olympia wrestling coach Jeremy Bourst. During the regular season, the boys practice five days a week. There might be a meet or tournament every weekend — sometimes more than one. The regular season is preceded by the preseason, which is dedicated to getting the wrestlers into a shape conducive to training hard on the mat without injury. Training typically starts at the beginning of the school year, and each wrestler will weigh in. They’re only allowed to lose so much weight based on the amount of body fat they have; therefore, each wrestler has a unique weight-loss plan. “We do provide them with healthy eating plans and talk often about nutrition,” said West Orange High wrestling coach Kristen Iannuzzi. “We also talk with the strengthand-conditioning coach about weight-loss goals, but whether they follow that is up to them.” In addition to nutrition and conditioning, Bourst added one of the main issues is hydration. “A lot of kids have bad habits as far as drinking caffeinated beverages like teas and sodas,

Danielle Hendrix

Olympia’s James Murphy, top, and Muib Akineyle practice live wrestling at a recent practice session.

“They’re taking a pounding in there, wrestling each other every day.” — Jeremy Bourst, Olympia High wrestling coach

which is the absolute worst thing they can do,” Bourst said. Hydration also comes into play when helping wrestlers regulate their weight — something they need to watch like a hawk, especially when it comes to meets and tournaments. Iannuzzi tells her wrestlers to “flood themselves with water” and get toxins out of their systems by drinking a gallon of water each day. At West Orange, wrestlers train under Iannuzzi but first work with their strength-andconditioning coach to get into shape. They alternate between distance running and short sprints and incorporate wrestling drills. “What (our strength and conditioning coach) has really been doing recently is having us sprint three quarters of a lap

to get our heart rate up, jog the last part, then repeat the whole process,” said junior Tyler Montes, a member of the West Orange wrestling team. “It gets our heart rates to go up and then back down.” But aside from the grueling conditioning and training they put in — along with watching their diet, water intake and weight — many of them are able to remain focused on their academics and work hard both on and off the mat. After the regular season is over, training and conditioning may last through the end of the school year and over the summer. Iannuzzi said the more wrestlers can train properly, the better they will perform in the long run. “It’s by far the most demanding sport that someone can participate in in high school,” Bourst said. “They’re taking a pounding in there, wrestling each other every day. But it’s (also) one of the best sports there is, because if you can do this, you can do anything.” Contact Danielle Hendrix at dhendrix@orangeobserver.com.

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

CHURCH OF THE ASCENSION 4950 S. Apopka-Vineland Rd. Orlando Sun.Serv 8:30am, 10:30am, 6:30pm. 407-876-3480 www.ascension-orlando.org

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

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

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

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

196789

EPISCOPAL

WINDERMERE OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2016

PAID ADVERTISEMENTS

Get Healthy West Orange The West Orange Healthcare District, Orlando Health – Health Central Hospital, and the West Orange Times & Windermere Observer are joining together in championing efforts to become the healthiest community in the nation, by fostering a culture of health and wellness based on health status, nutrition, fitness, and lifestyle. Championed by: SM

Bring HEALTH and DELIGHT to your meals with the highest quality OLIVE OILS and VINEGARS.

SAVORY MEAL: