Times& WEST ORANGE
Observer WEST ORANGE COUNTY’S NEWSPAPER FOR 109 YEARS
THURSDAY
MAY 21, 2015
FREE
WINTER GARDEN, FLORIDA
ARTS
SPORTS
SCHOOLS
Learn how to shoot photos of flowers from our local pro. PAGE 11A
Pigskin play begins at CFCA spring football jamboree. PAGE 1B
West Orange High School seniors storm out of school. PAGE 10A
OUR TOWN
MEMORIAL DAY by Amy Quesinberry Rhode | Community Editor
+ No garbage collection Monday
development by Michael Eng | Executive Editor
Builder proposes 284 new homes in Horizon West Nearby residents say the development — proposed for land currently designated as green space — will disrupt local wildlife.
Orange County Utilities will not collect garbage or recycling Monday, May 25, in observance of the Memorial Day holiday. Customers with garbage collection on Monday will receive garbage service the following Thursday. Customers with recycling collection on Monday will receive recycling service the following Monday. Bulky items will not be collected during the holiday week. For more information, visit ocfl.net/utilities.
HORIZON WEST — A developer for several communities in Horizon West is hoping to add another on land currently designated as green space in the master-planned West Orange community. Phoenicia Development CEO Tom Harb, whose projects also include Casa Del Lago, Lake Sawyer Sound and Lake Cypress Cove, among others, has applied for an amendment
+ Garden needs volunteer workers
EVERYBODY’S JOE by Steven Ryzewski | Sports Editor
The Winter Garden Community Garden Project Inc. will host cleanup/fixup work days from 8 a.m. to noon and 4 to 7 p.m., Saturday, May 23 and 30, at the garden, 445 Ninth St., Winter Garden. For more information, call Charlie Mae Wilder, (407) 529-5214.
Amy Quesinberry Rhode
U.S. Army Pvt. George R. Tamsitt was added recently to Winter Garden’s war memorial.
THE UNKNOWN
SOLDIER
+ Credit union collecting food McCoy Federal Credit Union is hosting a food drive through the end of May to benefit Bread of Life Fellowship in Ocoee. Food can be dropped off at the credit union, 1575 E. Silver Star Road, Ocoee. Acceptable donations include peanut butter, tuna, canned meat, rice, beans, macaroni and cheese, canned vegetables, instant potatoes, canned fruit and canned milk. For more, call (407) 6547777.
+ Church to host food giveaway West Orlando Christian Center will host a free food giveaway from 10:30 a.m. to noon Saturday, May 23, at the church, 1301 E. Bay St., Winter Garden. For more, call (407) 656-5665.
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WO
As Winter Garden commemorates Memorial Day, it will recognize a new name — U.S. Army Pvt. George R. Tamsitt. Tamsitt recently was discovered as the city’s second soldier killed in World War I, and historians are hoping to learn more about him.
I
t has long been thought that only one resident of Winter Garden, Hugh T. Gregory, was killed serving his country in World War I. But nearly a century after that war — and 22 years after a monument was erected to recognize residents killed in all wars since then — a 26th name has been etched into the gray granite: U.S. Army Pvt. George R. Tamsitt. “Nobody knows anything about him, other than the fact that he was a resident here in Winter Garden in the timeframe of the war and when he was in service,” Judd Kuneman, American Legion adjutant, said. “We don’t know if he enlisted here.” According to records, Tamsitt was killed in an accident while serving during World War I. His name was discovered by Kathy Churray, the historian for the American Legion Hugh T. Gregory Post in Winter Garden. She was looking
for more information on Gregory when she stumbled upon a story about Orange County’s war memorial. It listed two city residents — Gregory and Tamsitt. “We just wanted to make sure that if there was someone in Winter Garden that served, that he was recognized on the memorial down at the park,” Kuneman said of Tamsitt’s addition to the memorial. “It’s a shame that we can’t find more details other than the fact that he died in an accident. We want to recognize the service of this resident in World War I.” Anyone who can provide more information about the private or his family is encouraged to call the American Legion post at (407) 6566361. At the city’s annual Memorial Day program on Monday, Tamsitt’s name will be called with the other
SOLDIER / PAGE 4A
IF YOU GO OCOEE MEMORIAL DAY SERVICE WHEN: 11
a.m. Friday, May 22
WHERE:
Ocoee Lakeshore Center, 125 N. Lakeshore Drive KEYNOTE SPEAKER: Michael
McDaniel, department adjutant of the Florida American Legion.
WINTER GARDEN MEMORIAL DAY SERVICE WHEN: 8:30
a.m. Monday, May 25
WHERE:
Veterans Memorial Park, 420 S. Park Ave. KEYNOTE SPEAKER U.S. Navy Master
Chief Jerry L. Hagan
This week’s winner is
Lianne Graham.
See the photo on PAGE 10B.
Community Calendar..............2A Crossword............................ 10B
History..................................15A Obituaries.............................15A
DEVELOPMENT / PAGE 4A
Windermere Prep community mourns passing of Joe Sikorski The private school was surprised by the news of its security officer’s sudden passing last week. WINDERMERE — Melissa Fagan remembers leaving the campus of Windermere Preparatory School, where she is the director of the Lower School, and being stopped by Joe Sikorski just a few weeks ago. Sikorski, the campus’ security officer, had noticed that the air in the tires of Fagan’s car was a little low. A small thing, perhaps, but still not safe — especially if Fagan was driving her children around. In his trademark thick,
SIKORSKI / PAGE 4A Joe Sikorski
SAFETY by Peter M. Gordon | Contributing Writer
Winter Garden leaders review conflicting ambulance-service reports WINTER GARDEN — Following a report from current ambulance-service provider Rural/Metro that disputes numbers provided by Matrix Consulting, Winter Garden city commissioners again delayed a decision to bring the service under the city’s umbrella. City Manager Mike Bollhoefer gave commissioners copies of all reports and related email correspondence for review.
INDEX Arts & Culture.......................11A Classifieds..............................8B
to add a luxury-home community to land currently designated as greenbelt and wetland/ conservation space in Horizon West’s Lakeside Village Specific Area Plan. Currently, the 306.8-acre parcel, located on the east side of Ficquette Road, south and west of Winter Garden Vineland Road and north of Center
Sports.....................................1B Weather............................... 10B
WE HONOR AND THANK THOSE WHO GAVE THEIR LIVES FOR THIS COUNTRY.
Still, he said the sooner commissioners take a vote on this issue, the better. If the city did take over EMS transport services, staff would need time to purchase equipment and make other preparations. Robert Finn, of Matrix Consulting, presented a report March 26 that concluded Winter Garden could net about $212,000 to $251,000 per year
AMBULANCE / PAGE 4A Vol. 83, No. 21 , Two sections
WOTimes.com
WEST ORANGE TIMES
WOTimes.com
THURSDAY, MAY 21, 2015
COMMUNITYCALENDAR THURSDAY, MAY 21 Chamber Connection: New Member Orientation and Refresher — 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. Thursday, May 21, at the West Orange Chamber of Commerce, 12184 W. Colonial Drive, Winter Garden. This informative event allows guests to mingle with fellow Chamber members while learning about the many ways to capitalize on the benefits and opportunities included in a chamber membership. To register, visit wochamber.com/ calendar/event_details/chamber_ connection_new_member_orientation_and_refresher7. For more information, email hpapoulis@ wochamber.com. A History of Winter Garden — 6:30 p.m. Thursday, May 21, at the Winter Garden Branch Library, 805 E. Plant St., Winter Garden. Join the library for a presentation about the history of Winter Garden from the late 1870s to present day. This event is presented by the Winter Garden Heritage Foundation. For more information, call (407) 835-7323.
FRIDAY, MAY 22 Family Food Truck Night — 5 p.m. Friday, May 22, at Windermere Town Hall, 520 Main St., Windermere. The public is invited to have dinner with neighbors while exploring a variety of food trucks. For more information, call (407) 8762563. Ocoee Memorial Day Ceremony — 11 a.m. Friday, May 22, at the Ocoee Lakeshore Center, 125 N. Lakeshore Drive, Ocoee. The city of Ocoee will remember and pay tribute to the men and women who sacrificed their lives serving their country. The keynote speaker for the Memorial Day Ceremony will be Michael McDaniel, department adjutant of the Florida American Legion. McDaniel served in the U.S. Marines for 26 years and reached the rank of master gunnery sergeant. After retiring from the military, McDaniel became
GRADUATIONS Dr. Phillips High School — 3 p.m. Thursday, May 21, at Amway Center, 400 W Church St., No. 200, Orlando Central Florida Christian Academy — 7 p.m. Thursday, May 21, at CFCA, 700 Good Homes Road, Orlando Foundation Academy — 6 p.m. Thursday, May 21, at Foundation’s South Campus, 15304 Tilden Road, Winter Garden Windermere Preparatory Academy — 10 a.m. Saturday, May 23, at Dr. Phillips Performing Arts Center, 445 S. Magnolia Ave., Orlando Montverde Academy — 1 p.m. Saturday, May 23, at Montverde Academy, 17235 Seventh St., Montverde Olympia High School — 10 a.m. Saturday, May 30, at the University of Central Florida, 4000 Central Florida Blvd., Orlando Ocoee High School — 3 p.m. Saturday, May 30, at the University of Central Florida, 4000 Central Florida Blvd., Orlando Legacy High School — 5 p.m. June 6, at Legacy High School, 1550 E. Crown Point Road, Ocoee an advocate for veterans and their families. The program will include a processional to the Ocoee Memorial Wall where a wreath will be set in place. Ocoee High School student Andrew Jolicoeur will sing the national anthem, and there will be ceremonial flag presentations by the Ocoee High School Air Force JROTC Color Guard and Ocoee Police Department Honor Guard. The public is invited to attend. Refreshments will be served. For more information, please call (407) 905-3100. Windermere Farmers Market — 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Fridays at Town Hall, 520 Main St., Windermere. The event is presented by the Windermere Downtown Business Committee and features fresh produce, arts and crafts, breads, cheeses and more. For more information, call (407) 8762563.
SATURDAY, MAY 23 “African Cats” Movie & Craft
— 2 p.m. Saturday, May 23, at the Winter Garden Branch Library, 805 E. Plant St., Winter Garden. Get set for an incredible adventure to one of the wildest places on Earth, the African savanna. Children ages 6 to 12 are welcome. For more information, call (407) 835-7323. Community Work Day at Oakland Nature Preserve — 9 a.m. Saturday, May 23, at the Oakland Nature Preserve, 747 Machete Trail, Oakland. Participants will earn needed community-service hours while helping the preserve with various projects, such as restoration, ground maintenance and a variety of other duties. Families and groups are welcome to come out and help. Wear closed-toed shoes and bring water. For more information, call (407) 9050054. Swim Lesson Registration — 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Saturday, May 23, at the Jim Beach Recreation Center,
1820 A.D. Mims Road, Ocoee. The cost is $52.50 for group lessons and $130 for private lessons. Checks and money orders only will be accepted. Registration is open to Ocoee residents and non-residents. For more information, call (407) 905-3180. Winter Garden Farmers Market — 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays at the downtown Winter Garden pavilion, 104 S. Lakeview Ave. Choose from a large selection of vendors with fresh fruits and vegetables, homemade items, flowers and more. Live music takes place from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
MONDAY, MAY 25 American Legion Bingo Night — 6:30 p.m. Mondays at the American Legion, Hugh T. Gregory Post 63, 271 W. Plant St., Winter Garden. The public is welcome to attend. For more information, email americanlegion63@cflrr.com or call (407) 656-6361. Winter Garden Memorial Day Service — 8:30 a.m. Monday, May 25, at Veterans Memorial Park, 420 S. Park Ave., Winter Garden. Master Chief Jerry L. Hagan is the featured speaker at this year’s Memorial Day Service. A Roll Call of Veterans and a placement of wreaths will be presented with patriotic songs performed as participants invoke pride, honor and respect for our veterans. Refreshments will be served. For more information, contact Theo Graham at (407) 656-2021.
TUESDAY, MAY 26 Eat My Treat — 6 p.m. Tuesday, May 26, at the Windermere Branch Library, 530 Main St., Windermere. Learn the art of cupcake decorating with Jackie Wilson of Eat My Treat Cupcakes & Bundt Cakes. Participants can test their skills by decorating their own cupcake. Ages 16 and up are welcome. Registration is
To publicize your event in our Community Calendar, please send by mail: 720 S. Dillard St. Winter Garden, FL 34787; or by email: news@wotimes.com. Photos are welcome. Deadline is noon Thursday.
required. To register, call (407) 835-7323. Sunshine State Book Club — 3:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 26, at the West Oaks Branch Library, 1821 E. Silver Star Road, Ocoee. The book club will hold its end-of-year celebration. The group will highlight all of the books it has read from the Sunshine State Readers List for third through fifth grade. Guests are invited to join the book club for crafts, prizes and fun. For more information, call (407) 835-7323.
WEDNESDAY, MAY 27 Branching Out to Find Your Roots: Digging Up Land Records — 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 27, at the West Oaks Branch Library, 1821 E. Silver Star Road, Ocoee. Uncover how land records can jumpstart your research. Learn about deeds, mortgages, platting and surveys. Discover the difference between metes and bounds states as well as public land record states. The public is invited to attend. For more information, call (407) 835-7323. National Senior Day — 9:30 a.m. Wednesday, May 27, at Roper YMCA, 100 Windermere Road, Winter Garden. Seniors are invited for complimentary activities, information and snacks. A water fitness class takes place at 9:30 a.m., pilates at 10:30 a.m., yoga at 11:30 a.m. and a Silver Sneakers class takes place at 12:30 p.m. Blood pressure screenings, postural analyses and more will also be available. This event is open to the community. For more information, call (407) 656-6430. OneBlood Blood Drive — noon to 5 p.m. Wednesday, May 27, at the Health Central Hospital Bloodmobile, 10000 W. Colonial Drive, Ocoee. Blood is needed by patients facing planned and unplanned medical procedures, trauma victims, cancer patients and premature babies. Each donation will help an ill or injured patient within a few days. To
make an appointment, visit oneblooddonor.org. For more information, call (888) 9366283.
THURSDAY, MAY 28 Forget Me Not — 2 p.m. Thursday, May 28, at the West Oaks Branch Library, 1821 E. Silver Star Road, Ocoee. Participants will learn how to preserve the memories of loved ones using EPOCH. Library staff will provide assistance and answer questions. Computers and scanning equipment will be available for use. Bring photos and any information desired to include in a tribute. For more information, visit epochlegacies. org.
FRIDAY, MAY 29 Bats in the Library — 10:30 a.m. Friday, May 29, at the Winter Garden Branch Library, 805 E. Plant St., Winter Garden. Children ages 3 to 5 are invited to join the library for stories and crafts as it goes batty. For more information, call (407) 8357323. Rainy Day Fun — 11 a.m. Friday, May 29, at the West Oaks Branch Library, 1821 E. Silver Star Road, Ocoee. Children ages 3 to 5 are invited to enjoy stories, songs and crafts all about the rain. For more information, call (407) 8357323.
SATURDAY, MAY 30 Eco-Movie Matinee — 1 p.m. Saturday, May 30, at the Oakland Nature Preserve, 747 Machete Trail, Oakland. Bring friends and family to cool off indoors and watch an eco-movie after a day on the nature trail. This month the preserve will be screening “Journey to Planet Earth: The State of the Planet’s Wildlife,” narrated by Matt Damon. A discussion will follow the film. Admission is free and open to the public. For more information, call (407) 9050054.
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WOTimes.com
THURSDAY, MAY 21, 2015
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infrastructure by Zak Kerr | Staff Writer
Windermere leaders discuss stormwater credits The council also agreed on salary increases for Windermere Police Department employees. WINDERMERE — The Windermere Town Council addressed issues with stormwater in Windermere during its regular meeting May 12 at Windermere Town Hall, primarily the availability to request a stormwater credit. Windermere’s stormwater ordinance mandates collected stormwater fees for use to expand, improve or maintain town stormwater system operations, Town Attorney Tom Wilkes said. “The stormwater system is defined as all natural and man-made elements that are used to convey stormwater, including all pipes, ditches, retention bases, ponds and other stormwater conveyance and treatment facilities that are either owned or controlled by the town,” Wilkes said. The parts of the stormwater system owned by Windermere are in rights-of-way, easements for stormwater from property owners and plat-dedicated easements, he said. For communities, the coun-
cil could apply stormwater credits to homeowners associations for maintaining stormwater or take over while eliminating credits, Wilkes said. This would not apply to two recently approved subdivisions with agreements for private roads, which makes drainage private, he said. Town Manager Robert Smith mentioned stormwater problems for The Willows, with an assessment showing The Willows’ stormwater system failing. Smith said a grant to improve stormwater would be tough to procure, based on a lack of blight, not being an urban area and the perceived wealth of the town. Councilman Richard Gonzalez said he would be willing to do his part to make up for that deficiency in his taxes. “The reason you have a government is to do collectively what people cannot do individually,” Gonzalez said. “That’s where I would like to see us be. However, we’re not a big city. We have limitations.”
Mayor Gary Bruhn said residents should see how helping with other residents’ stormwater issues would help them. “Do you enjoy traveling through the roads that don’t flood?” Bruhn asked rhetorically. “Do you enjoy parks? Do you enjoy the quality of our lakes? You are receiving a benefit.” A resident of Marina Bay mentioned a stipulation for his homeowners association to take care of stormwater management, but that wording was never included in any covenant. Orange County code states any un-gated community becomes the county’s responsibility after one year of maintenance by the developer, and the county assumes no responsibility within gated communities, he said. He said he had problems with Marina Bay being responsible for upgrading its system, when Orange County was handling Marina Bay before its annexation into Windermere and had an agreement
to continue handling it. Gonzalez and Councilman Bob McKinley favored credits under certain conditions, but the rest of the council members opposed credits. Bruhn asked Smith and Wilkes to examine the matter further.
SALARIES
Windermere Police Chief Dave Ogden received approval for a five-year extension of his contract. Ogden declined a pay raise and instead requested more family time via an increase of 15 vacation days to 20, 40 hours of compensatory time, an increase in severance pay of up to 20 weeks and the savings from his declined pay increase going to increased pay for other members of the police department. “He’s excelled at everything that we’ve ever asked him to do,” Smith said. “His evaluation is probably the best I’ve ever provided somebody. He’s completely changed that department — not only the facility itself, but I think the men-
JUST LIKE NEW
By Michael Eng and Amy Quesinberry Rhode
tality. I think he’s established pride within that department. He’s surrounded himself with experienced, well-trained officers — ones that he recommended. The entire town has seen a change.” Several Windermere Police Department officers received adjusted pay rates to make pay equitable, retroactive to May 1, Bruhn said. As a result, administrative assistant pay will meet the market minimum, finance and town clerks’ pay will meet market averages, Sgt. Jayson Bonk becomes Sergeant 3, Sgt. William Eastwood becomes Sergeant 1, Detective John Allen will be paid the market average and Deputy Chief Jennifer Treadwell will make a minimum of $72,100, Smith said. Smith received a satisfactory evaluation from the council, which mandates a 3% raise per his contract. Like Ogden, Smith declined additional pay for more family time. He received 40 added
IN OTHER NEWS • First readings occurred for an ordinance related to fire assessment/MTSU fire services and fees and an ordinance regarding garage sales to add Windsong and Rosser Reserve as communities approving garage sales. The council supported ending sales involving influxes of non-residents. • The council approved a South Florida Water Management District contract addendum and a $137,762 Barracuda Building Corp. bid for Second Avenue/Pine Street drainage improvements. • Councilwoman Molly Rose asked Windermere Parks and Recreation staff to examine a possible town dog park. hours of compensatory time he must use and cannot take pay for instead. Contact Zak Kerr at zkerr@ wotimes.com.
governance by Peter M. Gordon | Contributing Writer
W.G. commission passes electronic billboard regulations Winter Garden leaders also agreed to test a system that could clean Lake Apopka.
Kiwanis Club volunteer Jeremy Carter worked hard all morning long.
A FRESH COAT
Ben Stalvey, center, appreciated the help from Next Community Church volunteers Patti Silveira, Christina Lopez, Sebrenia Brown and Carlee Whitt.
It took volunteers from Matthew’s Hope Ministries, Next Community Church, Kiwanis Club and Sherwin-Williams only about four hours to give one Winter Garden family’s home a completely new look May 16. The volunteers all converged on the Winter Garden home of the Stalvey family, which includes father, Ben, mother, Tiffany, and children, Braxton and Gracie. Gracie has Rett syndrome, a rare postnatal neurological disorder, and recently, the family has been in the hospital for symptoms related to the diagnosis.
WINTER GARDEN — Winter Garden city commissioners unanimously approved the first reading of an ordinance to enable the city to eliminate a minimum of two billboard signs for every electronic billboard installed. City Manager Mike Bollhoefer told the commission some companies already are negotiating with the city to eliminate billboard signs if the city will allow electronic billboards. The proposed ordinance allows city staff flexibility to negotiate agreements to remove and replace electronic billboards and leaves ultimate approval up to the city commission. “It is unusual to have an ordinance with that much flexibility,” Community Development Director Ed Williams said. In this case, the ability to negotiate the specifics should allow city staff to negotiate the best deals for the city, he said. The ordinance requires a minimum of 1,000 feet between billboards and limits each billboard’s height and the size of its copy area. It creates a legal definition for electronic billboards and sets limits on how bright each sign can be. Although the city’s ordinance doesn’t control billboards in Orange County enclaves, Williams said the city is negotiating with the county to control billboards in those areas with a joint planning agreement. The ordinance will have its second reading May 28.
LAKE APOPKA
Matthew’s Hope’s Michael Shehane was happy to lend a helping hand to the Stalvey family. Left: Brandon Saunders, of Next Community Church, gave the Stalvey family’s front door a new look.
Jay Barfield, president of Allied Group USA Inc., wants to use one of the boat basins at Newton Park to test a system he devised to clean pollution in Lake Apopka. Barfield’s company has a contract with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission to perform nutrient and sediment reductions in the lake. He approached Winter Garden because the boat basin offers a useful test environment. “It’s always been a passion of mine to see the lake cleaned up,” Commissioner Kent Makin said. Makin said Barfield has a record of success cleaning water all over the world. His experiment will not cost Winter Garden anything, and Barfield also will make needed repairs to the boat basin. Bollhoefer said the project should take between three and eight
IN OTHER NEWS • Commissioners heard the first reading of an ordinance to waive road impact fees for developers building in Winter Garden’s historic downtown to encourage developers to provide amenities and structures that meet the city’s goals to create a unified look and ambience in the district. Every waiver will need to come back before the commission for approval. The second reading is scheduled for the June 25 meeting. • The commission heard the first reading of an ordinance to rezone about two acres on the northeast corner of Daniels and Roper roads from residential to planned commercial development. The developer plans to build 17,250 square feet of office space primarily for medical use. The second reading is scheduled for May 28. • The commission heard the first reading of ordinances to rezone 44.83 acres on the south side of Marsh Road from City Planned Unit Development (PUD) to C-2 Arterial Commercial District. Williams said 99% of the property is wetlands. Rezoning the two acres of uplands will enable the city to build a fire station and cell tower on the property. • Commissioners heard the first reading of ordinances to annex and rezone 0.87 acres at 844 E. Crown Point Road. West Orlando Baptist Church purchased this parcel for plans approved at the commission’s last meeting. The second reading is scheduled for May 28. • The commission heard the first reading of an ordinance to amend regulations governing accessory buildings and structures. These changes would allow Matthew’s Hope to build a greenhouse structure on its property. months, leave no visible mess and have no smell. “We should give it a shot, but we need the ability to correct (any issues) in the contract,” Mayor John Rees said. The commission voted unanimously for Bollhoefer to execute the contract, provided it included a clause giving the city the ability to stop the project should it cause any problems for the neighborhood, such as a foul odor.
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WEST ORANGE TIMES
WOTimes.com
THURSDAY, MAY 21, 2015
DEVELOPMENT / PAGE 1A
WHAT’S NEXT
Drive, is approved for 12 lots. This change would allow up to 284 homes. The majority of the parcel is wetlands and un-developable; however, it contains 70.8 acres of uplands, which is where Harb is proposing the new community. Jim Hall, a planning director with VHB Inc. representing Harb, said the original plan for Horizon West called for six villages with a minimum of a 150-foot-wide greenbelt around each of them. At 1/4mile wide, the greenbelt on which this project is proposed is significantly larger. “No one really remembers why, in 1997, that the greenbelt of Lakeside Village ended up being 1/4-mile wide,” Hall said. “That was looked at last year by Orange County planning. … Staff changed the policy in its Comprehensive Plan that would allow this property and a couple of other ones … to not be greenbelt anymore but to go in and have some residential. … We have just followed suit on that and made this application.” About 100 neighboring residents attended a community meeting hosted by Orange County Commissioner Scott Boyd May 11 at Sunset Park Elementary School, to protest the change. Chief among their objections were the potential development’s impacts on local traffic and wildlife. Don Kendzior, environmental consultant, executive director of environmental group Noah’s Notes and a nearby resident, said the green space is critical not only to the immediate area but also to the wild-
The transmittal hearings will determine whether Orange County will transmit the project for state review. Following state review, the project will return to the county for consideration. TRANSMITTAL HEARINGS Planning and Zoning Commission/Local Planning Agency: 9 a.m. June 18 Board of County Commissioners: 2 p.m. July 28 ADOPTION PUBLIC HEARINGS Planning and Zoning Commission/Local Planning Agency: 9 a.m. Oct. 15 Board of County Commissioners: 2 p.m. Nov. 10 * Hearing dates are tentative and subject to change. life traveling through the state. “Some of the last remaining bio-diverse high-quality habitat in the county is right here,” he said. “We have (more than) 100 bird species recorded in this area, including birds of threatened and endangered status. And yes, there are bald eagles active in this area. They have made a nest … they are expanding, and we presume fairly soon … the offspring will start nesting in this area. “The Comprehensive Plan says these areas should be protected and preserved as wildlife corridors,” Kendzior said. “This is actually a wildlife corridor that runs all the way from Lake Apopka down to Lake Okeechobee and the
Everglades. An animal can actually traverse the entire portion of the state from south to central via these greenways. If this project is developed as proposed, it will sever this link in the greenway.” Kendzior said animals such as black bear, Florida panther and a bird species from as far away as Mexico have been spotted in the area. Moreover, he said, building on just the uplands would cause significant impacts regarding storm water runoff and flooding, and any fertilizers and chemicals used on lawns of the proposed homes would drain back into the wetlands. “This is going to fracture this habitat,” Kendzior said. “The wetland is kind of like the heart; the uplands are the lungs. They work together. If you just save the wetland … nothing else lives. The animals that are here need the uplands. To say there is no impact ... is not true.” Resident Arelene Grey agreed. “(We’re considering) giving up something you cannot buy; we will not get it back,” she said, “No matter how much money you have, you will never get it back.” Other residents said the purchased their homes on the premise that the area was to remain greenbelt. “When we bought are property, this was green space,” said resident Chad Wilson. “I knew it was green space. I researched the zoning and knew it was wetland. For us to go in and change it now, after we in the community have bought around this area, is not acceptable. We’re going the wrong way.”
Patrick Spikes said he is concerned about the impacts the proposed community will have on Horizon West’s already crowded schools, including Sunset Park Elementary. “When do we say, ‘Enough is enough?’” he asked. “If we’re going to have continuously overcrowded schools, then schools aren’t doing what they traditionally do — improve the land values and property values. It’s going in the other direction. All they know is the line wraps around the fire station (near Sunset Park) to drop the kids off in the morning. Until we get that infrastructure, we don’t need anything else.” Currently, Orange County Public Schools is scheduled to open Independence Elementary School this fall, two new school in 2017, and the new West Orange relief high school. However, the Orange County School Board assesses its construction program every July, so those timetables could change. Boyd said Horizon West is facing these infrastructure issues because of the intense growth the area. “You’re living in one of the fastest-growing areas in the state of Florida … and probably in the top 10 or so in the country,” he said. “Probably every major homebuilder in the United States is here; they’re all looking for places to lay a stake in the ground.” Harb, who attended the meeting, said he will take the residents’ concerns into consideration as he moves forward with the proposal. Contact Michael Eng at meng@wotimes.com.
BIG DIG Cadet Troop 719 received a tour of the historic Nehrling Gardens from volunteer coordinator Theresa Myers and helped clean up some of the invasive plants. The project was in honor of Earth Day, and the troop members about how to dig up both air potatoes and the cat’s claw bignonia, which kill native trees.
Courtesy photo
SOLDIER / PAGE 1A war dead — taking his place in Winter Garden history after all this time.
OCOEE
The city of Ocoee will remember and pay tribute to the men and women who sacrificed their lives serving their country during the annual Memorial Day ceremony. It is at 11 a.m. Friday, May 22, at the Ocoee Lakeshore Center, 125 N. Lakeshore Drive. The keynote speaker is Michael McDaniel, department adjutant of the Florida American Legion. He served in the U.S. Marines for 26 years and reached the rank of master gunnery sergeant. After retiring from the military, McDaniel became a strong advocate for veterans and their families. During his 10 years as a legionnaire, he has been involved with the American Legion Department of Florida for more than six years and has served as the current Department Adjutant of the Florida American Legion for nine years. He over-
sees more than 300 posts and 113,101 legionnaires throughout Florida. In his position, he continues to be an advocate for veterans’ rights in Washington, D.C., and Tallahassee. The Memorial Day Ceremony program will include a processional to the Ocoee Memorial Wall, where a wreath will be set in place. The Memorial Wall is inscribed with the names of Ocoee residents who gave their lives for freedom. Ocoee High School student Andrew Jolicoeur will sing the national anthem, and there will be ceremonial flag presentations by the Ocoee High School Air Force JROTC Color Guard and Ocoee Police Department Honor Guard. Jacob Pickett, Ocoee Middle School band director, will play taps. The public is invited to attend the ceremony, and refreshments will be served after the program.
WINTER GARDEN
The city of Winter Garden will begin its Memorial Day service at 8:30 a.m. Monday, May 25, at Veterans Memorial Park, 420 S. Park Ave. U.S. Navy Master Chief Jerry L. Ha-
West Orange Times The West Orange Times (USPS 687-120) is published weekly for $29 per year ($40 outside of Orange County) by the Observer Media Group, 720 S. Dillard St., Winter Garden, Florida 34787. Periodical postage paid at Winter Garden, Florida. POSTMASTER send address changes to the West Orange Times, 720 S. Dillard St., Winter Garden, Florida 34787. Opinions in the West Orange Times are those of the individual writer and are not necessarily those of the West Orange Times, 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. © Copyright 2015 Observer Media Group All Rights Reserved
gan is the featured speaker at this year’s program. A roll call of deceased veterans, placement of wreaths at the war memorial, patriotic music and refreshments will be included in the ceremony, which is held annually to honor the citizens who did not return from war. The bugler is Siebie Turk, who performs at Navy funerals on Florida’s west coast. Master Chief Jerry Hagan is a native of Okeechobee. In November 1985, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy and completed basic training in Orlando. After graduation, he went to Service School Command at Orlando’s Naval Training Center and completed Torpedoman’s Mate “A” School. He then reported for duty to Charleston Weapons Station, Charleston, South Carolina. After working in the torpedo shops, he joined the Auxiliary Security Force to begin his security and law-enforcement career. After Sept. 11, 2001, he was mobilized for 23 months in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and reported to Law Enforcement Specialist School in Texas as the lead instructor
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and leading petty officer for the schoolhouse teaching Navy, Marine Corps, Army and Air Force personnel security and law-enforcement courses. He has worked in many capacities and locations during his military career and has been mobilized and deployed numerous times. He has provided security for several high-level dignitaries. He has earned numerous awards, including Navy and Marine Corps commendation and achievement medals, a Reserve Meritorious Service Medal (seven awards), a National Defense Medal (two awards), Global War on Terrorism expeditionary and service medals, Sea and Overseas service ribbons awards, a Naval Reserve Service Medal and Expert Rifle and Pistol marksman medals. Hagan retired from the Navy this year after 30 years of service. He has been with the Orange County Sheriff’s Office for more than 20 years and will continue his duties there as corporal. Contact Amy Quesinberry Rhode at aqrhode@wotimes. com.
SIKORSKI / PAGE 1A Brooklyn accent, Sikorski offered to help, saying, “Let me take care of that for you.” That was Joe. The community at Windermere Prep was rocked to its core last week when it learned that Sikorski died May 11 of a heart attack. He was 53 and is survived by his wife, Karen, a fifth-grade teacher at the school, and son, Christian, who is in kindergarten at Windermere Prep. “(Sikorski) and his family … they were invested in this school as a family,” Windermere Prep Headmaster Dr. Thomas Marcy said. “Joe, in the time that I was privileged to work with him, he was always a pleasant fellow. He had a sunny disposition; I never saw him have a bad day.” A retired detective from the New York Police Department, Sikorski was a natural fit for the security officer opening on campus. Throughout his many duties within the position, Sikorski made many a lasting impression and friendship with members of the community — including Fagan. “He had a gruff exterior, but he was a protector,” Fagan said. “He was ‘Everybody’s Joe.’ … He belonged to all of us, and he took care of every single one of us in a way that was personal and meaningful. Every single person has a story about Joe that nobody else knows.” A common thread from those reflecting on their exchanges with Sikorski is his sense of humor. The personable New Yorker loved to joke and often teased about wanting to move back to the Big Apple, saying, “Today’s my last day — I’m heading back to New York!” Where some of the younger students would affectionately call Sikorski “Daddy Joe” or “Uncle Joe,” the school’s varsity athletes knew Sikorski to be one of the program’s most ardent supporters. Sikorski was a staple at sporting events, cheering on the Lakers with a similar enthusiasm to what he displayed when cheering on his beloved New York Jets. “He was a huge supporter of our athletic programs — you could always hear his voice (from the stands), and you knew it was him,” Windermere Prep head football coach Jacob Doss said.
AMBULANCE / PAGE 1A if Winter Garden Fire Rescue provided ambulance-transport services in addition to EMS services. However, those numbers differ from what Rural/Metro has collected throughout its history of providing services to Winter Garden. According to Rural/Metro Vice President of Operations Steven Youd, Rural/Metro collects about 33% of the total money billed. Following expenses, including billing, vehicles and fuel, the company estimates it nets between $96,000 to $98,000 annually. Furthermore, Youd said Matrix’s proposed two-ambulance fleet for Winter Garden would not provide as effective a service as Rural/ Metro, which dedicates five ambulances to West Orange, he said. Under Matrix’s proposal, Winter Garden would utilize Orange County in cases when more than two ambulances were needed. According to Youd, from Jan. 1 to March 20 Rural/ Metro responded to 819 calls in Winter Garden. During that time period, there were
HOW TO HELP
Donations still are being accepted through a GoFundMe account set up by the Windermere Prep community to help Karen Sikorski and her son navigate the next few months. Visit gofundme. com/JoeSikorski to make a contribution.
“He would prop his feet up on my desk on a Wednesday (before a football game on Friday) and ask, ‘What’s the game plan, Coach?’” he said. “When we’d get back from our away games late in the evening, he would often be the only person on campus when we got back, and he’d help us unpack the bus.” The sorrow that engulfed the Windermere Prep community following the news last week was soon joined by a sense of purpose. Laker students, teachers and parents are resounding in their efforts to aid the Sikorski family in its time of need. A GoFundMe was set up to raise funds for Karen and Christian and, as of Sunday night, more than $44,000 had been raised — with seemingly each contribution accompanied by a fond recollection of Sikorski. Of course, the goodwill went beyond monetary contributions to the family, as well. “The pride we have as a Laker family right now is surreal; I’ve always been very proud to be a Laker, but I don’t think it is possible to be more proud (than I am now),” Fagan said, reflecting on the response she had witnessed from the community last week. “Joe took care of the community, and now, the community is taking care of what’s most important to him. … It’s unbelievable what people are willing to do.” Fittingly enough, the funeral service for Joe Sikorski was held May 15, in the Lakers’ gymnasium. Although perhaps irregular to someone unfamiliar with Sikorski, for those who knew him and the love he had for the school and its community, it was the most appropriate place to celebrate his life. “It’s very unique and very different,” Fagan said. “But there really is no better place for him to come home to.” Contact Steven Ryzewski at sryzewski@wotimes.com. 158 instances in which Rural/Metro responded to two or more calls. Youd also cited two other municipalities — Marion and Orange counties — that recently brought ambulance-transport services in-house and now are experiencing budget and staffing stresses. “(Under the current arrangement, there is) absolutely no cost to the citizens of Winter Garden,” Youd said. Fire Chief Matt McGrew and Richard Brady, president of Matrix Consulting Group, sent responses to Rural/Metro’s rebuttal. McGrew and Brady stand by Matrix’s original cost and net revenue estimates. McGrew wrote the advantages to Winter Garden if the fire department provided EMS transport were “excellent and total EMS care for our citizens, excellent continuity of care for our citizens, total control of the resources involved in fire/EMS services, the highest level of accountability and positive revenue that pays for the incremental costs of the service.” Rural/Metro has been Winter Garden’s ambulance-service provider since 1966.
Times WEST ORANGE
CONTACT US The West Orange Times is published once weekly, on Thursdays. It provides subscription home delivery. The West Orange Times 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 West Orange Times, visit our website, WOTimes.com, call (407) 656-2121 or visit our office, 720 S. Dillard St., Winter Garden.
Publisher / Dawn Willis, dwillis@wotimes.com Executive Editor / Michael Eng, meng@wotimes.com Community Editor / Amy Quesinberry Rhode, aqrhode@wotimes.com Design Editor / Jessica Eng, jeng@yourobserver.com Sports Editor / Steven Ryzewski, sryzewski@wotimes.com Staff Writer / Zak Kerr, zkerr@wotimes.com Advertising Executive / Kim Edwards, kedwards@wotimes.com Advertising Executive / Cyndi Gustafson, cgustafson@wotimes.com Creative Services / Tony Trotti, ttrotti@wotimes.com Customer Service Representative / Sarah Felt, sfelt@wotimes.com
“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
WEST ORANGE TIMES
WOTimes.com
THURSDAY, MAY 21, 2015
5A
CRIME by Michael Eng | Executive Editor
Twenty-eight years later, W.G. man sees his daughter’s killer Edward Bowman attended the final appeal hearing of former U.S. Army Pvt. Ronald Adrin Gray, the man convicted of murdering his daughter, Kimberly Ann Bowman Ruggles.
Kimberly Ann Bowman Ruggles was 23 when she was murdered.
Courtesy photos
Former U.S. Army Pvt. Ronald A. Gray was sentenced to death by lethal injection.
and thanked every one of us for our determination,” Bowman said. The judge told them he would examine every point raised and expects to have a decision in September. Bowman said he hopes that decision will bring closure to a crime that has haunted him for decades. Bowman thought he would
get that closure more than six years ago, when the Army scheduled Gray’s execution for Dec. 10, 2008. “They had made (travel) arrangements for me and everything,” Bowman said. Then, two weeks before that date, a federal judge granted a stay of execution to allow for further appeals. The case had remained stagnant until this most recent hearing. “At least I know something is going on — that it’s not dead in the water,” Bowman said of the last hearing. “I want to live long enough to see him die. “We’ve gone through all the appeals,” he said. “They (Gray and his defense attorneys) are like a drowning rat in a sinking ship.” And if the judge rules against the death penalty? “At least the grandkids can know he’s in solitary confinement, tormented every day until he dies,” Bowman said. “I’d love to see him die the same way he killed, but if he (gets life), then he’ll be in a 6-foot-by-10-foot cell for 23 hours a day. And if that’s the case, I hope he lives to be 114.” Gray was 21 at the time of his arrest. Contact Michael Eng at meng@wotimes.com.
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WINTER GARDEN — Winter Garden resident Edward Bowman has experienced quite a bit in his 71 years. He’s been thrown out of the back of a pickup — twice — and lived to tell about it. He’s run for Winter Garden mayor and has staged so many protests that he has a company on standby to create his sandwich boards. He has raised nine children and outlived two wives. And soon, he hopes he will finally see his daughter’s convicted killer put to death. Kimberly Ann Bowman Ruggles was working as a taxi driver in January 1987 near Fort Bragg, North Carolina, when she was brutally raped and murdered. She was found naked in a wooded area; she had been raped and stabbed. Her cab was later found nearby. Ruggles, 23, a mother of three, was the fourth victim of serial killer and former U.S. Army Pvt. Ronald A. Gray, who was stationed at Fort Bragg. A military court sentenced Gray to death in 1988, and since then, he has remained on death row at the U.S. Disciplinary Barracks in Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. President George W. Bush approved Gray’s execution in July 2008, making Gray the first service member sentenced to death since President Dwight D. Eisenhower did the same in 1957. Despite this approval — and much to Bowman’s dismay — Gray has remained on death row through a lengthy appeals process. In April, Bowman flew to Kansas and was in the courtroom for Gray’s final appeal. It was the first time he had been in the same room as his daughter’s killer. “That was the first time I got to see him; I hadn’t even seen him on TV,” Bowman said. “I didn’t know what he looked like until I saw his picture. I wanted to walk up to him and slap him and ask him what he’d do with a real man and not a little girl.” Bowman said after the hearing, the judge approached him and the parents of another one of Gray’s victims. “He came up from the bench
COPS CORNER WEST ORANGE
APRIL 24
JUST A LITTLE BIT 15000 block of West Colonial Drive. Speeding. A traffic stop around 12:40 a.m. occurred because a driver went 68 mph in a 45-mph zone. The officer smelled marijuana and asked the driver whether there was anything to know about in the car. She said, “No, you guys can do anything.” The officer asked all occupants to vacate the car for a search, which was negative. A passenger admitted to a bit of marijuana in his pocket when asked. The officer pulled a clear jar of 0.7 grams of cannabis from that passenger’s pocket for evidence.
OCOEE APRIL 24
HOT PURSUIT AND THEN SOME Intersection of New Victor and Clarke roads. Resisting an Officer. An officer responded around 11:45 p.m. to a bar fight. He joined two other officers in pursuit of a suspect’s van. Police repeatedly commanded the driver to stop by loudspeaker, but he refused and continued swerving and ran a red light. The three officers ultimately boxed in the van just north of Ocoee Vista Parkway. Two officers extracted the suspect, who kicked at officers as they opened his door and tried to punch one, but the other two tased him for five seconds. The driver had purchased $110.81 of alcohol at the bar and left his ID and credit card there. He began
CALL STATS OCOEE FIRE
The Ocoee Fire Department (stations 25, 26, 38 and 39) reported 222 calls for assistance from April 23 to May 6: Fires: 4 EMS: 137 Vehicle accidents: 17 Hazardous materials/conditions: 3 Public service: 45 False alarms: 15 Other: 1
OCOEE POLICE
The Ocoee Police Department reported 1,016 calls for service from April 16 to 29: Arrests (adult): 48 Arrests (juvenile): 9 Assault/battery: 11 Burglary (residential and business): 9 Burglary (vehicle): 7 Child abuse: 7 Criminal mischief: 8 Drug violations: 10 DUI: 6 Homicide: 0 Robbery: 1 Sexual battery: 1 Thefts: 19 Vehicle accidents: 38 Vehicle thefts: 7 Missing/endangered adult: 4 Missing/runaway juvenile: 2
calling officers cowards and questioning their sexuality. Officers removed taser barbs from his arm and chest before ambulances arrived. Officers restrained him on a gurney and had him transported to Health Central Hospital, where he said he would show an officer’s wife what a real man is, called the officer names and demanded a lawyer. While the officer
WINDERMERE POLICE
The Windermere Police Department reported 186 calls for assistance from April 20 to May 3.
WINTER GARDEN FIRE
The Winter Garden Fire Department (stations 22, 23 and 24) reported 169 calls for assistance from April 19 to May 2: Fires: 5 EMS: 119 Vehicle accidents: 12 Automatic fire alarms: 5 Public assistance: 3 Hazardous conditions: 3 Calls for service: 22
WINTER GARDEN POLICE
The Winter Garden Police Department reported 1,018 calls for service from April 16 to 29: Arrests (adult): 38 Arrests (juvenile): 8 Assault/battery: 19 Burglary (residential and business): 6 Burglary (vehicle): 23 Child abuse: 0 Criminal mischief: 10 Drug violations: 8 DUI: 3 Robbery: 2 Sexual assault/battery: 1 Thefts: 25 Vehicle accidents: 46 Vehicle thefts: 2 Missing/runaway juvenile: 3 walked him out, he suddenly pushed off and tried to face the officer, who put him in a chicken wing to prevent spitting. He fell limp to the ground and forced officers to drag him. On the way to jail, he made more threats and insults. Charges were fleeing and attempting to elude an officer, resisting an officer with violence and assault of an officer.
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WEST ORANGE TIMES
WOTimes.com
THURSDAY, MAY 21, 2015
a place to call home by Zak Kerr | Staff Writer
FIRM FOUNDATION
Photos by Zak Kerr
Army Capt. Bobby Withers will receive a specialized home built by Homes for Our Troops.
Army Capt. Bobby Withers, center, shoveled the first scoops of dirt with family, Homes for Our Troops personnel and local officials. joined the ROTC, ultimately referring to his deployment as a metaphorical personal Super Bowl, she said. Col. Patrick Beer, dean of students and commandant of cadets at Georgia Military College, inherited Bobby Withers from there. “He graduated from Georgia Military College 13 years ago,” Beer said of Bobby Withers. “He stands out because most people would be known as Cadet Withers… He was always ‘Bobby Withers,’ as if it was one word.” Beer attributed this to Bobby Withers lighting up rooms with enthusiasm and his patriotism. Bobby Withers graduated as a second lieutenant in 2003 and made an impression by exemplifying the values of duty, honor and country, Beer said.
A BAD DAY
Bobby Withers ultimately became platoon leader of the Personal Security Detachment
for the Commander of Task Force Morgan on his third volunteer deployment. His platoon was responsible for the Parwan province in Afghanistan. Foreign fighters launched an attack before dawn May 19, 2010, in the largest attack on an Air Force base in 40 years, according to reports. “On May 19, 2010, Bobby Withers was having a bad day,” said Larry Gill, Homes for Our Troops veteran liaison. Suicide bombers in Army uniforms tried to infiltrate the base with explosive vests, AK47s and grenades. With Special Forces support, Bobby Withers led soldiers in eliminating a set of attackers. While he was securing the perimeter and moving to contact remaining attackers, he stepped on a mine that launched him 10 feet and severed parts of his legs. Allies provided medical attention and safe transport while limit-
ing blood loss to save his life. During recovery, Bobby Withers endured several skin grafts and the amputation of his right leg below his knee. He still needs further surgery to remove hundreds of shrapnel bits and has severe pain in his back and legs.
COMMUNITY SUPPORT
Staff Sgt. Joe Beimfohr, who received a Homes for Our Troops product May 11, 2013, mentioned how he would always bump into things with his wheelchair in other places he had lived. “Every time I’d back up, I’d hit a wall or I’d go through a doorway and scratch it up,” Beimfohr said. “Trying to get into a kitchen with a power wheelchair, as you can imagine, is a nightmare, trying to turn around and move around.” But since he moved into his new home in Wesley Chapel two years ago, Beimfohr has
not had any of these problems, and he has enjoyed wide spaces throughout his house to make life more manageable. He also spoke about friendships forged through Homes for Our Troops. “The people you meet during this process are going to become friends — they’re going to become lifelong friends,” he said. “I think the coolest part about it is, when you move into your house, all of your neighbors are going to know who you are: They’re going to know your story; they’re going to know why you’re injured.” They might also know of Bobby Withers’ ambitions to volunteer with local food pantries, The Mission Continues and Team Rubicon, as well as spend more time with his two daughters. Bobby Withers thanked his family, friends and Homes for Our Troops for love, support and guidance.
Past recipient Staff Sgt. Joe Beimfohr reflected on how meaningful his specialized home has been. “The peace of mind that comes with knowing that I’ll be coming home to a specially adapted home is phenomenal,” he said. “This is my forever home. I’m always going to live in Winter Garden, and to know that, of all the things to worry about, coming home to a house that’s safe and comfortable and going to be accessible is never going to be one of them. I couldn’t be here without y’all.” For more information, visit hfotusa.org. Contact Zak Kerr at zkerr@ wotimes.com.
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WINTER GARDEN — Another wounded American military veteran will receive a West Orange house specially crafted for injured soldiers. This latest recipient will be Army Capt. Bobby Withers, who, with his family, will move into the house now under construction at 1026 E. Fullers Cross Road in Winter Garden. Homes for Our Troops, the national nonprofit founded in 2004 in charge of constructing this house, hosted an on-site groundbreaking ceremony May 9, where Withers, family members, Homes for Our Troops representatives and local officials turned dirt to begin the process. Many spoke from different perspectives on Withers and the Homes for Our Troops process, starting with his mother, Julie Withers. “This was not some kneejerk reaction to 9/11, joining the military,” Julie Withers said. “When Bobby was probably about old enough to walk, he pestered me for a toy rifle for quite a while. I started noticing that he would sleep with that rifle, and I remember standing there, thinking, ‘Either he’s very insecure and feels he needs to protect something or maybe he’ll go into the military one day.’” Bobby Withers continued to sleep with that rifle, and on Independence Day each year, he received firecrackers and a bag of Army men and tanks, Julie Withers said. “He’d put a firecracker inside the tank, light it and throw it over the deck,” she said. “This was every single Fourth of July, and I didn’t think a whole lot of it. I remember walking up the deck one day, and he’s scrambling through the bag, and he said, ‘Mom, I’m out of tanks.’ I said, ‘What’s that right there?’ And he looked at me with those big, blue eyes, probably 9 years old, and said, ‘Mom, that’s one of ours.’ I knew from then, he’s definitely going into the military.” From there, Bobby Withers
U.S. Army Capt. Bobby Withers and his family will receive the specially adapted house when it is complete.
WEST ORANGE TIMES
WOTimes.com
THURSDAY, MAY 21, 2015
7A
TRAVELING TIMES by Amy Quesinberry Rhode | Community Editor Jennifer and Garrett Stevenson took their West Orange Times to Blowing Rock, North Carolina, for Christmas. The Stevensons attend Calvary Baptist Church, and she teaches first grade at Foundation Academy, both in Winter Garden. The Stevensons love their hometown but also love Week 51 every year in Blowing Rock.
TAKE US WITH YOU! Are you planning a vacation to someplace special outside of West Orange County? Be sure to pack a copy of the West Orange Times or West Orange Times & Observer. All entries will be entered into our ongoing Travelin’ Times contest. Entering is easy! Just snap a high-quality photo of you and
your friends or family members with the paper and email the picture to Community Editor Amy Quesinberry Rhode at aqrhode@wotimes.com. You also can mail or drop off the photo to our offices, 720 S. Dillard St., Winter Garden, Florida 34787. Emailed photos should be at least 200 dpi. Include the names of everyone in the
photo, where it was taken and a phone number where the editor can reach you. Call the newspaper office at (407) 6562121 with questions. Last year, the community newspaper traveled to 19 states and 17 countries, including Australia, China, Greece, Italy and Vietnam. Where will we go this year?
Above: Lucy and Neale Cogswell pulled out a copy of the West Orange Times at the Mirador Base de las Torres in Chile. Right: When John and Debbie Flinn took a cruise to Atlantis, they packed a copy of the West Orange Times.
While Larry and Stephanie Berry were in Winter Park, Colorado, it was so cold that even the moose wore blankets. Along with plenty of warm clothing, they also took the West Orange Times. The West Orange Times traveled with the West Orange High School Marching Band on its trip to Chicago to participate in the St. Patrick’s Day Parade.
SUBMIT YOUR TRAVEL PHOTOS TO COMMUNITY EDITOR AMY QUESINBERRY RHODE AT AQRHODE@WOTIMES.COM. 787 W. Montrose St, Clermont, FL
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WEST ORANGE TIMES THURSDAY, MAY 21, 2015 WEST ORANGE TIMES
THURSDAY, MAY 14, 2015
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WEST ORANGE TIMES
WOTimes.com
THURSDAY, MAY 21, 2015
taking it to the streets by Zak Kerr | Staff Writer
West Orange seniors storm out of school
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407.656.2593 Hugs and shaving cream went around in abundance. Seniors at West Orange High School celebrated their walkout day the afternoon of May 12, parading out from the school behind the drumline to the parking lot to mark the end of their classes. Families took pictures and cheered their seniors with signs, banners, balloons, streamers, noisemakers and other items. Seniors also used phones for pictures and videos while strutting in unison toward their future. Many used silly string, beach balls, shaving cream and even selfie sticks to commemorate the occasion. For the full gallery, visit wotimes.com.
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Right: The drumline led the Warriors out of class one last time.
CLASS NOTES 170653
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From left: Elias Tazi, Sean Duong, journalism teacher Jaime Jackson and Amy Roesch
+ SunRidge students shine at media fest Three media/journalism students from SunRidge Middle School participated in the Orange County Student Media Festival. The second-year students created live-action book trailers to be entered along with more than 30 other submissions in the countywide contest. Elias Tazi took second place for “The Tortoise and the Hare,” and Amy Roesch received honorable mention for “One for the Murphys.”
PRESENTS
+ New school receives name Although it wasn’t the most supported name within the community, Independence Elementary will be the name of the new elementary school opening in August in West Orange. The Orange County School Board chose the name Independence Elementary for a new school being built in the Independence area, one of six villages in Horizon West. The top three names, all
recommended by parents, were based on the patriotic theme of the village. Freedom Elementary got 28% of the community vote, with Independence Elementary close behind at 25%. Liberty Elementary was the third choice, with 17% of about 500 votes. Board member Pam Gould, who represents the area where the school will be located, said the name would best represent the area in which the school will be located. Other board members noted the other names could have been confusing because the district already has a Freedom High School and Freedom and Liberty middle schools. The school, previously known as 63-E-W-4, will mostly relieve overcrowding at Keene’s Crossing Elementary, while offering some relief to Sunset Park Elementary.
+ Area students receive Broad Prize Five West Orange-area students were among the 29 in Orange County Public Schools to receive the Broad Prize. Local recipients include Amanda Clementel, of Dr. Phillips High, Alexia Greenwood, of West Orange, and Misael Lugo and Khalid Shatara, of Olympia. Fifty-four high-school seniors from Gwinnett County Public Schools in Georgia and Orange County Public Schools in Florida will receive $1 million in Broad Prize scholarships to attend college, The Eli and Edythe Broad Foundation announced. The districts are the first co-winners in the history of The Broad Prize. In 2014, The Broad Prize review board named only two finalists, and the selection jury decided to name both districts as winners, and each received $500,000 in scholarships.
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Orlando Science Schools’ robotics team, 4013 Clockwork Mania, recently participated in this year’s FIRST Robotics Competition Championship. At the event, junior Sebastian Orellana, of Windermere, was one of 10 students presented with the Dean’s List Award. Those recognized were selected out of more than 73,000 students in 19 countries. “Winning this award is a huge honor,” Orellana said. “I owe it all to the support of my teammates and the teachers at OSS who push us to be our best.” The award recognizes the top FRC students who demonstrate leadership qualities and a Broad Prize scholarships are awarded to graduating seniors who, like their school districts, demonstrate improvement throughout high school and who have financial need. Broad Prize scholars receive two- or four-year scholarships depending on the type of insti-
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Arts&Culture WOTimes.com
QUICK
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THURSDAY, MAY 21 Garden Theatre presents “Peter Pan” — 8 p.m. Thursdays through Saturdays, 2 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays, May 1 to 31, at the Garden Theatre, 160 W. Plant St., Winter Garden. You know the story, but you’ve never experienced it in this way. Be whisked away with Peter Pan, Wendy, Michael and John in the timeless Broadway musical that now combines live action with digital immersive theatre. Thanks to the magical talents of the Garden Theatre’s digital partners, you can follow James M. Barrie’s characters out the nursery window on a trail of pixie dust to Neverland. Let go of what you’ve previously known and come fly with us! Tickets are $29 ($25 students/seniors) and $12 for ages 12 and under on Saturday matinees. For more information, visit gardentheatre.org.
THURSDAY, MAY 21, 2015
ROYAL ACT by Amy Quesinberry Rhode | Community Editor
GETTING TO
KNOW YOU
Christian Simmons is one of many students in the cast for “The King and I.”
Courtesy photo
FRIDAY, MAY 15 Between the Brushes — Adult class will be from 7 to 10 p.m. Friday, May 22, and the children’s class will be from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, May 23, at The Art Room, 709 Main St., Windermere. Cost is $35 for either session. Reservations required, (407) 909-1869.
SATURDAY, MAY 23 Painting with Scissors — 11 a.m. Saturday, May 23, at the Winter Garden Branch Library, 805 E. Plant St., Winter Garden. Children ages 6 to 12 are invited to learn about the famous artist Henri Matisse and create their own bold and colorful work of art inspired by his cut paper technique. For more information, call (407) 835-7323. Pajama Paint Party and Pizza — 5:50 to 8:30 p.m. Saturday, May 23, at The Art Room, 709 Main St., Windermere. Kids are invited to wear pajamas and design pillowcases. The cost is $60 per person. Dinner and all supplies are included. For more information and to make reservations, call (407) 909-1869.
FRIDAY, MAY 29 Paint Party with Mikki Maurer — 6:30 to 9 p.m. Friday, May 29, at the SoBo Gallery, 127 S. Boyd St., Winter Garden. Guests will create an original painting and have fun doing it. Bring a creative spirit and your own adult refreshments. This event is for 21 and older only. The gallery will provide all materials. The cost is $30 for Winter Garden Art Association members and $35 for non-members. To register, visit wgart.org.
SATURDAY, MAY 30 Magic and Mayhem — 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, May 30, at the Orange County Convention Center North Concourse, 9400 Universal Blvd., Orlando. Magic and Mayhem Productions will bring its magic, comedy and customizable entertainment and join the team from Bishop Grady Villas at the 10th annual Autism Walk and Family Fun Day. For more information, visit asgo.org/ walk/walk_15.
Work on Tildenville Elementary School’s production of “The King and I” began in February.
Tildenville Elementary School will stage a special version of ‘The King and I’ Tuesday, May 26.
C
olorful drapes and Asian lanterns hang from the rafters to set the scene. A golden Buddha rests at the back of the stage, near pink flowering vines that snake up the wall. The king lay dying in his palace, his grieving Anna by his side and his wives and children kneeling behind her.
After the king closes his eyes a final time and takes his last breath, the curtain is drawn. Elementary students at Tildenville have learned their lines, rehearsed their scenes, been fitted for their costumes — and they are ready to share their musical and acting talents with parents and friends May 26. It’s an ambitious stage show
for first- through fifth-graders, but musical director Sara Story is bursting with confidence in her students. “It’s a fabulous musical,” Story said. “We’re doing the ‘Getting To Know You’ version for pre-high school performers … and we have decided that our kids are beyond
Photos by Amy Quesinberry Rhode
Zuleany Alers, who plays Anna, has worked hard on her acting skills.
PLAY / PAGE 12A
IF YOU GO WHAT: “The King and I” WHERE: Tildenville Elementary School, 1221 Brick Road, Winter Garden WHEN: 6 p.m. Tuesday, May 26 COST: Free admission ATTIRE: Audience members are asked to dress as if they are going to a Broadway show.
Performers include front row, from left: Paige Valentin, Johnathan Grunick and Elias Lopez, and back row: Thalia Williamson, Nemiah Wallace and Cameron Hayes.
MARCH ON WASHINGTON by Zak Kerr | Staff Writer
Ocoee band selected as Florida rep in National Memorial Day Parade OCOEE — During the National Memorial Day Parade, which begins at 2 p.m. May 25, in Washington, D.C., there will be only one band from Florida, and only one band’s trumpeters from the entire country will play taps to honor the fallen after a moment of silence. That band will be the Ocoee High School Marching Band. About 90 students — about half of the school’s marching band — will board a bus around 4 p.m. May 21 for a long ride to the national capital, where they will play in the parade after plenty of sightseeing and learning about places connected to their
history studies, said Bernard Hendricks Jr., the founder and director of the band program since 2005. “It’s an honor to go and play and honor your country,” he said. “We’re able to mix in not just the performance but a lot of the history and stuff that’s in Washington, D.C., with the museums and all the different monuments. It’s really cool that we’re going to be able to do all that. A lot of kids are excited about that because what they’ve been studying in U.S. history, that’s when they’re going to see it, and a lot of these
BAND / PAGE 12A
Zak Kerr
About 90 band members have been rehearsing for their National Memorial Day Parade performance in Washington, D.C.
12A
WEST ORANGE TIMES
WOTimes.com
PLAY / PAGE 11A amazingly talented.” As the school’s special-area director, she also teaches music, dance and drama at the elementary school. “The play is written for middle schools, but our director decided to take a chance on these very talented elementary-school kids and do the show,” said Nasly Lopez, whose son is in the performance. “This is a high-caliber production all made possible by people with tremendous hearts and love for the arts. As a parent with a child in the show, I cannot wait to see it all unfold on stage.” A total of 62 students will perform in this production. It has been quite a commitment for these children, with rehearsals after school four days a week. Story said the first 45 minutes are devoted to homework, and she and the other volunteers, mostly parents, are there to assist should anyone need help with their work. Those who don’t have homework are expected to read or work on a computer until practice begins. Getting parents to devote time to this project is important, too, and Story has put together a dedicated team to do just that, including her own parents, Leonard and Jane Story. “I am putting every single bit of my life into this, as well
THURSDAY, MAY 21, 2015
as my parent volunteers,” she said. “My own mom and dad, they’re retired, they have been building my sets for every show I’ve done here at Tildenville. At this point, they have put in probably 5,000 hours of volunteer work, painting sets, picking and ordering costumes. They’re here at every single practice directing kids; they’ve been definitely instrumental in putting together a show like this.” Lopez, Samantha Wheeler and Justin Farr, three parents whose children have roles in “The King and I,” have been phenomenal help, Story said. Besides Elias Lopez as The King, Caleb Farr plays Captain Orton and Sir Edward Ramsay, Lexis Wheeler is Eliza, and Caden Wheeler is Toddler. Tildenville’s bookkeeper, Debbie Valentin, has made sure the finances were kept in check and has helped when needed, too. Her granddaughter, Paige Valentin, portrays Princess Ying Yaowalak.
MAKING PREPARATIONS
It is 1862 in Siam when an English widow, Anna Leonowens, and her young son arrive at the Royal Palace in Bangkok, summoned by the king to serve as tutor to his children. Folks say the king is a barbarian, and he seeks Anna’s assistance in changing his image, if not his ways. Keeping a firm grip on their respective traditions and values, Anna and
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led a role usually reserved for eighth-grade students. Not only has he learned his lines, but he knows the others, too. Story said if someone forgets his or her line, he is ready to whisper it to the actor. “It’s amazing what these kids can do,” Story said. Alberto Hoyos, Elias’ dance teacher at The Right Combination Dance Studio, taught the students how to do the polka. “He is amazing with kids,” Story said. “Zuleany (Alers as Anna) was called a natural by him. He taught the kids to have confidence, not only in dance, but in everything they do. “It was an unbelievable experience for me, too,” she said. “Alberto danced with me. I felt like I was on a cloud. Elias even danced with me, too.” Lopez is thankful for Story’s willingness to work overtime for her students. “These children would never be afforded the opportunity to get training like this if it wasn’t for Sara Story taking a leap of faith and moving forward with musicals time and time again — with this one being her biggest undertaking yet,” Lopez said. “She is a tremendously positive influence in the lives of so many children and their families.” Tildenville has been best known for its dual-language program, but it’s fast becoming known for its remarkable chorus, which grows each year because of Story’s dedication to the students. She leads about 70 children in the chorus, and the group
BAND / PAGE 11A
portunity to visit Washington, D.C., is senior drum major Brooke Sprague, who is eager to perform and see various monuments, Smithsonian attractions and the White House. Hendricks began the application for this performance at the start of the school year, and Ocoee was one of fewer than 20 high schools selected among many vying for the opportunity, he said. “I thought it was a great honor,” Sprague said. “We knew that a lot of people had requested to have a part in this, and knowing that we had a really great honor to perform in the Memorial Day Parade, it really means a lot to me and the entire band, because we take it to heart.” Since Hendricks learned that parade officials had selected his band, the members going on the trip have been practicing marching to get back in top form. The band had to fundraise about $785 per member for this optional trip to work, he said, with the city, school and community members chipping in. Despite money being tight for some, virtually every member of the band who wants to go will be able, Hendricks said. “They make sacrifices and make it happen,” he said. “It’s pretty amazing how resilient these kids are.” The parade has just 30 bands from high schools and colleges around the country, part of 112 entries, and Ocoee will be No. 95, with the exclusive opportunity for its members to play taps after a moment of silence. “A couple of weeks ago, we got an email from the parade coordinators, and they said, ‘Your band has been selected to perform taps,’” Hendricks said. “An hour into the parade, they have a national moment of silence, and our trumpet players and mellophone players will be dispersed along the parade route and be playing taps for that national moment of silence. I don’t know how they selected us, but it’s pretty cool that we get that honor. In the communications they sent me, it says the entire parade must stop at 2:58 for a national moment of silence at 3 o’clock. At 3:01, the trumpet players from Ocoee High School will be playing taps. At 3:03, the parade starts again. It’s listed just like that.” Although those members of the band were excited to learn that, they were also cognizant of the challenge it will be to play taps in unison from throughout the parade route, Hendricks said. “They’re not going to be playing together,” he said. “They’re not going to be able to hear each other, and nobody will be conducting them,
kids won’t get the chance to see it. “Parents even said, ‘This is great, because the kids can go see stuff they’ve been studying and don’t have the opportunity to go on their own,’” he said. “I’ve always felt that, if we have the opportunity and the ability to go somewhere, then let’s go, because everybody doesn’t have the pleasure to be able to travel with their family.” One of those students who might be seizing her only op-
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CAST MEMBERS Elias Lopez is The King, and Natalie Price and Zuleany Alers are sharing the role of Anna. Others in the cast are Caleb Farr (Captain Orton and Sir Edward Ramsay); Jonathan Fournier (Louis); Si’Nia Thompson (The Interpreter); Kaiden St. Esteben (The Kralahome); Ricardo Laso (Lun Tha); Antonina Ballerino (Tuptim); Nemiah Wallace (Lady Thiang); Christian Simmons (Prince Chulalongkorn); Paige Valentin (Princess Ying Yaowalak); Lexis Wheeler (Eliza); Machenzie Hill (Simon of Legree/wife); Katia Companioni, Haven Birket, Taylor Vance, Ramya Price, Nia Mosby and Ariana Gonzalez (Ying Narrator); Hannah Sauers (Ying Narrator/Guard); Callie Huffman (Butri); Cameron Hayes (Thara); Azriel Steele, Haley Sauers, Julissa Rivera, Makayla Sims and Kelvia Thomas (Wife); Danielle Birket (Wife/Guard); Olivia Brown (Princess 2); Abigail Rangel (Princess 6); Gabriella Montoya (Princess 9); Kyleigh Hollingsworth and Sarah McLeod (twins, Princesses 3 and 4); Aiden Fowler (Prince 1/George); Palmer Ackerbloom (Prince 8); Jadon Johnson (Prince 5); Jonathan Grunick (Prince 10); Caden Wheeler (Toddler); Caleb Wallick (Guard); Donny Malik (Uncle Thomas/Guard); Siena Wanuck (Little Eva); Ashlyn Thomas (Little Topsy); Kaylee Hollingsworth, Kelsey Grunick and Kiersten Cherry (Scientific Dog Dancers 1 through 3); and Thalia Williamson (Angel). Musicians, dancers and performers are Sydiamond Albert, Celeste Barreto, Sebastian Barreto, Faith Birket, Serene Davis, Sydney Fanning, Juliana Gonzalez, Megan Hamlin, Camille James, Ania Laso, Aanyah Lovett, Isabel McLemore, Jaden Milham, Byron Perez, Natalia Vargas and Isabella Wallick. performs at locations such as Walt Disney World, West Orange High School, downtown Winter Garden festivals and a local assisted-living facility. “The parents who are substitutes on the east side of Orlando, when they mention that their kids go to Tildenville, (people) say, ‘Oh, that’s where that incredible chorus is,’” she said. “These kids love this positive press. … They want it, they search for it,” she said.
“The way to get some absolutely amazing props is to outdo ourselves with a high-school production with a bunch of 6- and 10-yearolds. (School Board Member) Christine Moore absolutely rants and raves about us when we go to perform at the Apopka Arts and Jazz festival, and she’s been absolutely amazing to have. She loves our kids.” Contact Amy Quesinberry Rhode at aqrhode@wotimes. com.
PRIME TIME
“The band director at my middle school was really good friends with the band director here, so it was a really easy transition, because he always used to come and teach us and prep us for our middle-school (Music Performance Assessments),” she said. “So when I got into high school, he seemed to be a great guy to be with, so I’m really grateful to be with the band four years.” Beyond that, the highschool band performs in numerous local parades and community events that help them embrace their Ocoee identity, Hendricks said. “We have a lot of interesting little things that go on right here in the community, and I think it’s catching on,” he said. “The community always comes out and supports whatever we’re doing, and I think the kids really enjoy playing in the community. Everybody does their spring concert in the auditorium, but when they get out and do these extra little performances around town, they really feel connected, like they’re a member of the community.” Moreover, there are lessons beyond notes and marches, with students maturing in responsibilities and leadership, Hendricks said. “I haven’t really done anything this whole rehearsal, and they’re still rehearsing and it’s effective, and kids are getting in shape,” he said. “It’s been a ride. I’ve enjoyed it a whole lot, watching the kids grow; watching the program grow; more ups than downs. It’s a lot of fun, a lot of hard work, a lot of time. But these rewards are great.” Among the greatest rewards is the power to unite Ocoee, Hendricks said. “We want to get the community more connected to the school, and what better mechanism than a marching band?” he asked rhetorically. “I always tell the kids, ‘Everyone loves a marching band — if it sounds good.’ If it sounds bad, they might throw rocks, so be careful.” The sound of this band is Sprague’s favorite part, and if critics she has spoken with are any indication, Hendricks and his program should not be dodging rocks anytime soon. “Because we play so much different music compared to everybody else, when they see us, they go, ‘Oh, that’s Ocoee’s band,’” Sprague said. “We just play completely different music than what everybody else is playing.” And on Monday, Sprague and her bandmates have the opportunity to show the nation that Ocoee flair. Contact Zak Kerr at zkerr@ wotimes.com.
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the king grow to understand and, eventually, respect one another. Anna, the lead female character, will wear a full European gown, and the Asian characters will wear Far East-inspired dresses. The males will don two-piece outfits resembling martial-arts attire, Story said. The audience will be amazed at the set, with its Asian-inspired curtains and the palace interior painted on the back wall. “It’s super colorful all over the place,” she said. Story always has loved “The King and I” and has wanted to stage it at Tildenville for a few years. When she presented the idea to the chorus booster parents, they were on board. “We purchased the musical and have been running gungho style ever since,” she said. The G2K version is an adaptation of the high-school version, Story said. The love scenes and songs have been cut out; their love for each other is shown in a glance. The script and choreography also are simplified for younger performers. Work on the production started in February, when parents started building sets and students started learning lyrics and lines. “There is an unbelievable amount of talent,” Story said. “I’ve got headliners — like our king, who is the main lead of the entire show, has pretty much a thousand lines or more to memorize. … This kid is spot on.” The king, Elias Lopez, is a third-grader and has tack-
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WHEN: 2 p.m. May 25 (feed goes live at 1:30 p.m.) INFO/WEBCAST: military.com TV: Reelz Channel (check local listings) so they have to have the confidence to just play it by themselves.” The parade route is a straight shot along Constitution Avenue Northwest from Seventh Street Northwest to 17th Street Northwest, about a mile long, with a particular spot for airing live on Reelz Channel, American Forces Network and military.com. At that spot, the Ocoee band will play “Our National March,” a take on “Stars and Stripes Forever,” Hendricks said. The band will perform its standard tunes with a disco feel in other parts of the route, he said.
BUILDING A COMMUNITY TRADITION
“We do a big trip like this every other year, so at least two out of the four years here, they’ll have the opportunity to travel,” Hendricks said. “We’ve done the Veterans Day Parade in New York, which was a great experience. We’ve done the Cotton Bowl Music Festival out in Dallas, Texas. The last trip we took was the Liberty Bowl up to Memphis, Tennessee — that was a good food trip — we had some good barbecue up there. And we did the Philadelphia Thanksgiving Day Parade a few years back. So this is our fifth one.” Hendricks hopes one day the program will be selected for the Rose Bowl Parade or a Macy’s parade. But even more than these grand trips, events at home are building this program into a community icon. “I took the jazz band over to Ocoee Elementary School, and we did their building dedication,” Hendricks said. “They moved into their new school this year. It was really cool because the high-school kids played while the elementary-school kids were singing, so it was this collaboration. I was really impressed with the elementary-school kids, and I think my high-school kids were blown away.” The two groups fed off of each other’s energy for a mellifluous performance Hendricks wants to make a regularity, with Ocoee Middle School in on collaborations, too. Sprague, who began playing in sixth grade and has been in the marching band all four years of high school as a trumpeter, section leader and drum major, is one of several products of such a partnership who already have progressed through Hendricks’ program.
WEST ORANGE TIMES
WOTimes.com
THURSDAY, MAY 21, 2015
TIPS FROM THE PROS by David Haynes | Contributing Writer
Steven J. Sober, DMD
An Introduction to Flower Photography
Accepting new patients
Photographer and cinematographer David Haynes has traveled the world capturing iconic images for organizations such as National Geographic and the BBC. His work can be seen in magazines, newspapers, on book covers and in private collections. Now he’s sharing his skills with us in a new “cut and keep” column on everyday photography.
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A backyard photo taken just after the sprinklers had finished — the drops of water add sparkle to the image and the early-morning sun striking the background adds a wash of light that lifts the colors without being too contrasty. The long focal length and shallow depth of field from the wide aperture means even a messy background becomes a blended texture of color and light.
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These wildflowers in the foreground are in an area of dappled shade under a tree. The midday sun adds a splash of bright color in the background and backlights the subject, helping it stand out against the rest of the scene. Staying low to the ground gives the right perspective, and a line of trees in the distance allows a darker edge to the image that helps frame it.
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Window light is perfect for flowers in a vase or pot. Closer to the window, the light is a little more contrasty — and here, I have placed a dark sheet of paper as a backdrop to give some contrast against the light on the flowers and mask the cluttered kitchen background.
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These flowers in a pot in the backyard are in the shade — the soft light is perfect, and the flowers are so dense that they create their own contrast by darkening the background of the pot.
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If you want to take your art to the next level, then flowers make for perfect subjects. The original image of a vase of flowers in window light was very nice, but blending a colored texture in your favorite photo app takes just seconds and gives a painterly look. There is a multitude of inexpensive cellphone apps to achieve the same thing.
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Look for the unusual — this budding stem has a drop of water and threads from a spider web to add interest, while a shallow depth of field isolates the subject and turns the background into abstract color and texture. Focus is critical in situations like this — try switching to manual focus, using live view and a tripod. Spend time on your composition — with subjects this small, moving the camera just inches can completely change the feel of the image — the placement of highlights in the background is intentional, and without them, the image wouldn’t be as good.
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If you want to try something different, placing a couple of flowers on the scanner bed of a cheap all-in-one printer gives a very distinct and ethereal look. An ordinary cardboard box over the top of them results in a black background, and the ultra-shallow depth of field produced by the scanner completes the effect.
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camera to Aperture Priority (A-mode) and the lowest f-stop you can on your lens. Think about your framing — usually your subject looks better off-center — and carefully choose the part of the scene on which to focus. It can help to use a tripod to force yourself to slow down and think about composition — and using live view with a flip-out screen allows you to put the camera low to the ground and still be able to use it without being a contortionist! Harsh lighting can be too contrasty — flowers often look best in a wash of soft light. So choose early morning, an overcast day, a shady area or use a diffusor to soften the overhead Florida sun. If your flowers are in a vase or pot, then use window light for that perfect lighting.
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Flower photography offers an endless array of color, shape and textures to explore and is an ideal way to learn composition, lighting and the capabilities of your camera and lenses. It also allows you to slow down, think and concentrate — the flowers aren’t going anywhere soon — and can be practiced at home, in your backyard or on location. You can start with simple snapshots and progress to complex macro setups with multiple flashes. We’ll explore more about macro flower photography in future articles, but for now, let’s get up and running with the basics. Use your longest lens and zoom in as far as you can. Combined with a wide aperture (low f-stop number), you’ll be able to throw the background out of focus to avoid clutter. So set your
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As in life, the old adage, ‘Stop to smell the roses’ is good advice when taking photos of the flowers themselves. Here are some tips to help you capture beautiful flower photos.
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WEST ORANGE TIMES
WOTimes.com
THURSDAY, MAY 21, 2015
SEW SWEET by Amy Quesinberry Rhode | Community Editor
CrossROADS shares talents around the world WINTER GARDEN — A group of women started meeting a few years ago so they could spend time in fellowship while they worked on sewing and other needlework projects. Their purpose soon became more Christ-centered, and they are now part of the CrossROADS Ministry at First Baptist Church Winter Garden. Led by Celeste Spencer, this service-oriented sewing group reaches out to help people in West Orange County and in many other countries. She meets with 12 other members: Ann Braddock, Marsha Caldwell, Marsha Dunaway, Margaret Hurst, Jane McCloud, Audrey McKee, Elizabeth Osborn, Ann Patterson, Louise Scarboro, Claudia Smyth, Edith Stepp and Debbie Sweredoski. Twice a month, they get together to work on projects. They create hygiene bags for young girls in other countries to hold their personal items. They sew wheelchair bags, lap pads and shawl sets, and they repair clothing, for residents at Health Central Park and Quality Health Care Center. They make diaper bags, burp cloths and crib blankets for young mothers through Accept Pregnancy. They have
made pillowcase dresses (more than 100) and pants for girls and boys through the Children of the Nation program and created single bed sheets for a new children’s dorm in Africa out of more than 120 king- and queensize sheets donated by a local hotel. “We are always excited to make a difference,” Spencer said. The sewing enthusiasts welcome new members, and all are invited to the church at 10 a.m. on the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month. “We invite others to share their gifts,” Spencer said. “We have had ladies participate in a couple of states just because they want to share in our effort.” Residents who want to help but aren’t seamstresses can make a monetary donation, or a gift of fabric, to the church. “We are very grateful for the opportunity to do what God has called all of us to do,” Spencer said. “We do realize that the organizations we are supporting are also performing a ministry — helping others.” Contact Amy Quesinberry Rhode at aqrhoe@wotimes. com.
Amy Quesinberry Rhode
Elizabeth Osborn, left, and Audrey McFee work on a sewing project for CrossROADS Ministry.
UNDER THE ARBOR
by Amy Quesinberry Rhode | Community Editor
Pam Wolfcale was all smiles after getting soaked in the dunk tank at Saturday’s town of Oakland festivities.
In celebration of Arbor Day, the town of Oakland planted two red maple trees just north of the meeting hall. Throwing the dirt are Mayor Kathy Stark, left, Commissioner Joseph McMullen, Public Works Director Mike Parker, Congressman Daniel Webster, Commissioner Rick Polland and Town Manager Dennis Foltz.
Oakland celebrates Arbor Day With a scoop and a toss of the dirt, U.S. Rep. Daniel Webster helped the town of Oakland celebrate Arbor Day Saturday, May 16, with the planting of a red maple tree near the Town Meeting Hall. The Bloom & Grow Garden Society donated two trees for the occasion. Oakland officials also cut the ribbon to mark the dedication of the town’s new water tank in VanderLey Park. Booths provided information on water usage, tree pruning and hurricane awareness. Tours of the water tank also were available. The dunk tank was a popular spot, and attendees could try their hand at dunking volunteers. Pam Wolfcale, the principal of Oakland Avenue Charter School, drew a steady crowd of students. Right: The town of Oakland held a ribbon-cutting Saturday to celebrate its new water tank. Participating were Public Works Director Mike Parker, left, engineer Scott Breitenstein, town commissioners Joseph McMullen and Rick Polland, Mayor Kathy Stark and Town Manager Dennis Foltz.
An eagle watched the festivities from a high perch near its nest in VanderLey Park.
Paige Mastin, 4, peeked out of the train window during a ride around the Oakland Town Center loop.
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WEST ORANGE TIMES
WOTimes.com
THURSDAY, MAY 21, 2015
OLD TIMES 70 YEARS AGO
40 YEARS AGO
Tami Whitlow is the vale-
30 YEARS AGO
The new pastor of First Baptist Church Windermere is Dr. Mark Matheson, who moved from Dallas with his wife, Carla, daughter, Emily, and son, Drew.
Serving the Orlando area since 1926.
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Winter Garden Heritage Foundation This week’s picture takes us to Castle Hill, a mansion located just over the Lake County line, southwest of Killarney on John’s Lake. It was a grand estate, complete with a water tower that resembled a lighthouse. It was built and furnished by a Mrs. Bovington, an heir of an uncle connected to the Montgomery Ward department store family. A Mr. J.K. Marshall was the home’s next owner, who eventually sold it to Charles Mather-Smith, the son of Oakland’s colorful Grace
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Mather-Smith. The photograph, from March 1966, depicts Lakeview High School Humanities students Mark Alexander, Pam Kelley and Jim Keller posing on the beautiful home’s tower staircase. Castle Hill was razed in 2013. The Winter Garden Heritage Foundation, which seeks to preserve our heritage and architecture while creating new cultural experiences, is celebrating its third decade with the debut of its new History Research and Education Center.
www.collisoncareyhand.com 1148 E.Plant St • Winter Garden • Fl 34787 “Proudly Serving all of West Orange County with Dignity and Respect”
CLAUDE KERRUTT, 72, of Ocoee, died May 13, 2015. Dobbs Funeral Home. ELLA MAE LETTSOME, 72, of Winter Garden, died May 11, 2015. Marvin C. Zanders Funeral Home, Apopka.
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ELLIOTT PEREZ, 59, of Winter Garden, died May 15, 2015. Baldwin Brothers Dove Chapel.
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Annie “Pearl” Jones, 89, went to be with her Lord and Savior on May 12, 2015. She was born Dec. 16, 1925, in Ellenboro, North Carolina, to Webb and Valli Hamrick Luckadoo. They are both predeceased. She had resided at Ocoee Healthcare Center, in Ocoee, for the last two-and-one-half years. Her prior residence was in Winter Garden, and she lived in Orlando for 25-plus years. Mrs. Jones graduated from Ellenboro High School in North Carolina and met and married Norris Vance Jones on Sept. 1, 1943. They moved and settled down in Orlando in 1956. Mr. Jones passed away in 1985. She had been the last living sibling of her two sisters and five brothers. She is survived by her daughters, Sandy Hulsey-Overstreet and Sherry Green, both of Winter Garden; grandchildren, Curt Hulsey (Wendy) Laura Cotton (Jeffery), Jennifer Johns (Jimmy) and Angie Shirley (Roger); and great-grandchildren, Trace Hulsey, Dakota Hulsey, Kaylee Cotton, Shelby Cotton, Jacob Johns, Jessica Johns, Timothy Gibson and Cody Gibson. Mrs. Jones lived and dedicated her life to serve the Lord. She belonged to Laurel Hills Baptist Church, Orlando, for many years, where she served as a Sunday School teacher, sang in the choir, doing many solos, and she cooked and served meals before the Wednesday night service for many years. She helped on whatever committee or project with which the church needed help. This was her way of serving her Lord. She loved to cook and bake. She was well noted for the wonderful pies and cakes she made. Her kitchen around Christmastime looked like a cookie factory, with the different assortment of cookies she made each year. She also was an excellent seamstress. She was always sewing and making clothes for her daughters and then for the grandchildren. She was a devoted mother to her daughters and grandmother to the grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was loved by her friends and neighbors. She was always willing to offer a helping hand. Services for Mrs. Jones were held May 15, at Beulah Baptist, following burial at Woodlawn Cemetery.
James C. Key Jr., 66, of Winter Garden, Florida, passed away Wednesday May 13, 2015, at his home. He was born Sept. 9, 1948, in Memphis, Tennessee, a son of the late James C. Key Sr. and Mildred Louise (Edwards) Key. James moved to Orlando in 1984 and worked as a truck driver for more than 17 years for Aramark Trucking Company. He loved music, especially playing his play bass guitar for his church. He is survived by his wife of 38 years, Brenda L. Key; his five children, Scott Key (Shanon), of Cabot, Arkansas, Matthew Key (LeAnn), of Winter Garden, Jonas Key, of Clermont, Natalie Jenkins (Jacob), of Ridgeland, South Carolina, and Rebecca Konze (Tom), of Clermont; a brother, Jeff Key, of Cleveland, Tennessee; and 11 grandchildren, Garrett Key, Bridgett Key and Wyatt Key, of Cabot, Sophia Key, of New York, Addison Key and Aubree Key, of Clermont, Jacob Konze, of Clermont, McCoy Key, of Winter Garden, Landon Konze and Lawson Konze, of Clermont; and Levi Key, of Winter Garden. Relatives and friends are invited to a memorial service at 3 p.m. Saturday, May 23, at Glad Tidings Church, 2009 Fullers Cross Road, Ocoee, Florida 34761. His funeral arrangements are in the caring guidance of Winter Oak Funeral Home & Cremations, 1132 E. Plant St., Winter Garden, Florida 34786.
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James C. Key Jr.
Pfc. Ward Britt, who was wounded in Germany, is convalescing at an Army Hospital in Thomasville, Georgia. He was visited there by his wife, Gertrude, and young son, Ward.
400 Woodlawn Cemetery Rd. • Gotha, Florida 34734 407-293-1361
dictorian and Tanya Miller the salutatorian of Ocoee High School’s Class of 1975.
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OBITUARIES
Annie “Pearl” Jones
WOODLAWN MEMORIAL PARK AND FUNERAL HOME
from the archives
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Sports
YOUTH | HIGH SCHOOL | GOLF | COMMUNITY
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK DP’s Dillon Scammon is a leader on Orange County’s hockey team. 2B SPONSORED BY MAIN STREET MOWERS
WOTIMES.COM
SIDELINES + DP’s Powell commits to La Salle Former Dr. Phillips boys basketball standout RaShawn “Pookie” Powell has committed to La Salle after announcing his departure from the University of Memphis. Per NCAA rules, Powell will have to sit out for a season and will be eligible to play in the 2016-17 season for La Salle, which went 17-16 last season. Powell was redshirted as a freshman with Memphis after being a top-100 prospect out of high school and averaged 4.3 points per season for the Tigers.
+ Forrest chooses Bethune-Cookman After weighing interest from several schools, including the University of Richmond, West Orange boys basketball standout Quinton Forrest signed to play his college ball in-state for Bethune-Cookman. The senior helped lead the Warriors to the state playoffs this past season after previously suiting up for Windermere Prep during his junior year.
THURSDAY, MAY 21, 2015
college baseball by Steven Ryzewski | Sports Editor
Dr. Phillips High alum thriving for Florida Gators Outfielder Ryan Larson, a sophomore for the Gators, is hitting .310 this season as the team is set to begin play in the SEC Tournament. The Florida Gators baseball team wrapped the 2015 regular season May 16 with a 3-1 victory over the Auburn Tigers in Gainesville. The Gators (40-15) are the No. 4 seed in this week’s SEC Tournament in Hoover, Alabama, and are within the top 10 in nearly every major college baseball poll. Helping to lead the way for Florida has been a local player having a breakout sea-
son — sophomore outfielder Ryan Larson, a Dr. Phillips alumnus. After hitting .274 in 48 appearances with 24 starts as a freshman in 2014, Larson has started in 45 games this spring and is hitting .310 with 23 runs scored and 22 RBI. “It all started, as a freshman, just coming in not really knowing what to expect playing in the SEC with guys you grow up watching,” Larson said, reflecting on his grow-
ing role for the Gators. “It’s just an ongoing process from fall ball to playing as much as I did last year (as a freshman) to summer ball, and it kind of just all came together for me early this spring.” For Larson’s high school coach, Dr. Phillips head coach Mike Bradley, it has been exciting to keep up with his former standout as the season
SEE LARSON / PAGE 2B
Courtesy photo by Tim Casey
After starting 24 games as a freshman, Ryan Larson has started 45 games this spring and has driven in 22 runs to date.
SPRING FOOTBALL
FOOTBALL by Steven Ryzewski | Sports Editor
by Steven Ryzewski | Sports Editor
Underclassmen step up as Olympia nears spring game Windermere Prep’s Brett DioGaurdi hauls in a pass for the Lakers.
+ Olympia star heading to Penn Kaden Funk, who over the course of three years of high-school tennis has just one loss as an individual competitor, recently announced his verbal commitment to Penn. The men’s tennis program at Penn competes in the Ivy League and is headed by coach Albert G. Molloy. Funk is a former state champion and will join his older brother and sister as college athletes after next school year. Funk’s older sister, Kali, helped First Academy volleyball to four consecutive state titles and is playing for Delaware in college, while brother Steyn won back-to-back individual swimming championships in high school and swims for the Auburn Tigers.
+ W.O. pitcher recognized Kelsey Morrison, a senior pitcher for the West Orange softball team who signed to play at Tennessee, was recognized by Bright House Sports Network as the Orange County Softball Player of the Year. Morrison and the other respective Athletes of the Year for Orange County were recognized at a recent “Breakfast of Champions” event.
The CFCA Eagles raised their helmets for a postgame breakdown after completing their spring football jamboree.
SPRINGING INTOACTION
+ Third bowl game coming to area A third college football bowl game will be coming to Central Florida, set to kick off for the first time later this year. The Cure Bowl was made official in April with an announcement that the game’s inaugural playing will take place on Dec. 19 at the Orlando Citrus Bowl. The Cure Bowl joins the Buffalo Wild Wings Bowl and the Russell Athletics Bowl at the Citrus Bowl.
New head coach Kyle Hayes said rising juniors Khalif Hollis and George Adams have displayed leadership skills during the Titans’ spring camp. With more than a dozen practices under his belt as the new head football coach at Olympia High School, Kyle Hayes has made more than a few observations about the program he will lead onto the field for its spring game against Wekiva High School on May 26. One observation, though, may be the most important. “To be honest, our kids love to fight — in a positive way,” Hayes said as the Titans wrapped up practice May 14. “They’re fighting to be successful. … That’s what I’m really impressed with about the team so far.” Hayes believes that aggressive nature is important for a program making its way through an offseason transition of coaching staffs. So far, the veteran coach from South Florida has seen a pair of underclassmen step up as leaders in practice — one on offense, offensive lineman Khalif Hollis, and one on defense, linebacker George Adams. “(Khalif) pushes everybody,” Hayes said. “The funny thing about it is, when you take the helmet off, he’s a nice little dude — put the helmet on and he’s a pit bull. George, he’s very aggressive, as well, and he’s an in-your-face kind
SEE OLYMPIA / PAGE 2B
Windermere Prep and CFCA, along with Orangewood Christian, took the Eagles’ home field in Ocoee on Monday for a jamboree — kicking off a busy two-week stretch of spring football contests. RESULTS
Ajay Green scored the Eagles’ first touchdown of the day.
SPRING FOOTBALL JAMBOREE AT CFCA GAME 1: Windermere Prep 14, CFCA 8 GAME 2: Orangewood Christian 7, CFCA 6 GAME 3: Windermere Prep vs Orangewood Christian, canceled
OCOEE — The CFCA Eagles may have come up short on the scoreboard in both of their scrimmages at the team’s spring football jamboree on Monday — falling to reigning SSAC champion Windermere Prep, 14-8, and to the conference’s newest addition, Orangewood Christian, 7-6 — but first-year head coach John Davis had a smile on his face afterward. After all, following only 13 practices since Davis took
over as the program’s new coach, his Eagles played competitively against the Lakers — a team that went a perfect 10-0 last fall — and played well against the Rams, too. That they did so with players shining who were freshmen or younger was just a nice bonus. “Everybody has seen that we’ve got the type of skill
JAMBOREE / PAGE 2B
Steven Ryzewski
Khalif Hollis, a rising junior offensive lineman, says the camaraderie among him and his teammates has been positive this spring for Olympia.
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DILLON SCAMMON After invigorating Ocoee team, Gordon departs for ‘dream job’ at Evans High
More than halfway through the 2015 spring season, the Orange County team in the Central Florida High School Hockey League has a 5-2 record and figures to be among the contenders for the championship as the playoffs draw nearer. Leading the way has been Dr. Phillips’ own Dillon Scammon — a senior at DPHS who is the team leader in points (15) and goals scored (11). You’re leading the team in points and goals scored this season. What has your mentality been toward this season? Being my senior year, I kind of just put it all out there, you know? Trying to get every goal and trying to lead the team with the goals, which I’m doing right now. I’m trying to get to the overall leader (in the league) in goals — that’s my goal. With the way the league is set up, with one team representing all of Orange County, what’s it like to have teammates from different schools around the county? It’s pretty cool. It’s kind of hard, though, when you’re at school, because you want to hang out with your team, but they’re not in your school. It’s pretty fun, though, because I can travel around and see, “Oh, that’s how it is at that school.” Is there a goal you scored or an assist you made so far this season that stands out in your memory? There was one goal, it was me and Cameron Cippolone coming down on a two-on-one and he passed over, and it was just a textbook play — just beautiful. You seemed to have improved from 2014 to 2015. Can you put your finger on where the improvement has been? I got a new curve, so I’m trying that new curve, and it’s been pretty big. Changing that up a little bit, and I’ve definitely gotten used to it. So, hopefully, it’s the curve, or maybe it’s just me working.
If you’ve had the opportuni- follow in my dad’s footsteps … ty to chat with Rob Gordon or it was just too good to pass up simply to see the passion with for me,” Gordon said. which he ran and coached the I’m sad to see Gordon go boys basketball program at (though, to be fair, he’s not Ocoee High School, going far) but excited you’d know it would for him all the same. take a heck of an offer You can’t fault to lure the veteran anyone for wanting to coach away from the return home or take his Knights. or her dream job, espeGordon took the cially after the contriprogram in Ocoee butions he made to the from a 6-20 record in program at Ocoee. The his first year on camKnights improved each STEVEN pus to a 21-5 mark this season under Gordon, RYZEWSKI going 6-20, 14-13, 14-12 past season. Last week, though, and 21-5, respectively. Gordon got that offer Moreover, he develhe couldn’t refuse — a chance oped the best player in the to head the program at Evans program’s history, outgoing High School. senior guard Grant Riller (a As a kid, Gordon spent signee to College of Charlescountless hours in the old ton who simply torched opgym at Evans’ Pine Hills ponents this past season) and campus, where his father, fellow senior standout Vaugh Bob Gordon, was an assistant McCall, who will play collecoach for the Trojans’ boys giately at Flagler College. basketball program for 12 He’s not leaving the cupyears and the head coach for board bare, either. Beyond the Evans’ girls program for 13 talents of Riller and McCall, years. Ocoee was bolstered by strong Later, Gordon himself play from its underclassmen played for the Trojans from who will make the job openhis freshman year to his junior ing for the Knights an attracyear before transferring to tive one, to be sure. Lake Highland Prep for his It says even more about senior season. Gordon that, despite the Ev“Ultimately, the opportunity ans offer being his dream job, to go back home — where the decision still wasn’t easy. I went to school and I grew “(The decision) wasn’t a up watching my dad coach, slam dunk at all,” Gordon where I’ve watched many a said. “The reason it wasn’t player and am now able to is that I have such a strong
through Friday to play hockey, and then on the weekends, I work all day. What are your thoughts on the facility that is planned for Winter Garden? I’m pretty pumped for the Solar Bears so that way they have their own rink and they can do their own thing. It’s going to be tough as an employee (at RDV), though, so we’ll see how that goes. Does its pending construction suggest to you that the sport, as well as ice sports in general, are growing here in Central Florida? I definitely think so, because rinks are going up left and right. So we’ll see how that goes in the next 10 years, and hopefully, there’s going to be more hockey in Florida. What are your plans, hockey-wise, following graduation? I’m going to go play junior hockey in Tampa Bay. So, hopefully, it’ll push me to work harder and skate harder and reach my goals. The NHL Playoffs are going on. Any predictions as to who will take home the Stanley Cup? You know, I’m a “Go Bruins” kind of guy; so go (Boston) Bruins — but (since they’re eliminated) I think the (Tampa Bay) Lightning are going to win it. What’s been the best thing about being a senior in high school? The best part is you get away with a lot at school — I’ve wore a hat pretty much all year. You learn the little tricks around the rules.
George Adams, a rising junior linebacker for the Titans, says he enjoys playing for Hayes, whose background is on the defensive side of the ball.
Who is the biggest rival for the Orange County team? I believe Volusia, because they have a player there who is a fantastic player. … He’s going to be tough to play, so we will see how that turns out.
OLYMPIA / PAGE 1B of kid. He knows how to push guys when they need to pushed.” Adams, a rising junior, is particularly excited to have Hayes, a defensive-minded coach, leading the way. “Coach has really simplified a lot of things, and we’re picking it up very well,” Adams said. “We’re having a very productive spring, and we’re going to have a very productive fall. I love the defensive coach thing. He seems to communicate well with the athletes.” That enthusiasm isn’t limited to the linebacker. Hayes has witnessed some encouraging signs from his defense in just a few weeks of spring practice. “We actually had a couple practices where (the defense) got so into it that I actually stopped calling plays, and they just started calling their own plays,” Hayes said. “I was really excited about that after only having 12, 13 practices.” Offensively, Hayes said the emphasis will be in keeping things simple and finding ways to efficiently get
What are you looking forward to the most about summer? Definitely playing hockey. That’s all I look forward to is hockey. What’s the reaction from friends at school when they find out that you play hockey competitively? They’re pretty surprised; they’re like, “You’re from Florida and you play hockey?” But once they get to know me, they understand.
appreciation for what the administration and athletic department at Ocoee allowed me to do, in terms of supporting me and our program. It was a complete rebuilding job and they let me do my job and do what was necessary to change the culture — not just of Ocoee basketball, but in trying to change the overall culture of the athletic department.” As I said earlier, it’s not as though Gordon is going far. Supporters of the Knights will have an opportunity to see the outgoing coach when Ocoee and Evans square off in Metro Conference play, as will supporters of Olympia and Dr.
Phillips, and West Orange will see the Trojans twice a year in district competition. I’ve always respected and appreciated the right for coaches to move on and take new challenges, and I’m certainly excited to observe how Gordon handles his next post. As opposed to a rebuilding job at Ocoee, the Evans job is ready-made with high expectations and attention. The community in Pine Hills loves its basketball team and is proud of its tradition. Fortunately, their new head coach is as much a student of Evans basketball history as any.
JAMBOREE / PAGE 1B
a number of positions for CFCA and scored the Eagles’ touchdown against Windermere Prep, rising freshman quarterback Kai Patterson, who took his first snaps in varsity action and looked confident and competent, and rising eighth-grader Visual Russell, who ran the ball at running back. Patterson’s performance, in particular, was important for CFCA’s outlook after Gehrig Chambless, who took most of the snaps at quarterback last year for the Eagles, left the program. “(Patterson) threw about five varsity (passes) today that were incredible,” Davis said. “What we have with him is a heady, smart player who is only going to grow — he’s an eighth-grader. He did a really good job.” Windermere Prep, in its one game, looked impressive after losing so many seniors from last year’s championship roster. The Lakers also showed well on offense despite holding out standout quarterback Parker Davis, who practiced this spring but is not yet fully healed from a shoulder injury suffered in the fall. Mitchell Darrow, who has become a “do-it-all” kind of guy for coach Jacob Doss’ offense, led Windermere Prep’s offense under center to two successful scoring drives. Contact Steven Ryzewski at sryzewski@wotimes.com.
guys that can play with any team in private-school football right now,” Davis said. “I feel like, speed-wise, we matched up very evenly with both teams we played today. … I’m very proud of where we are.” The three-team jamboree, which was to have each team play the other two opponents for two 12-minute quarters, or a half, to constitute an entire spring football game, ended after just two scrimmages. The third scrimmage, which would have pitted Orangewood against Windermere Prep, was mutually canceled after an injury to Orangewood’s Ethan Bullock caused a lengthy delay during the Rams’ contest against the Eagles. After taking a hard hit, the rising sophomore for Orangewood momentarily lost consciousness and was taken from the field by emergency personnel as a precautionary measure. Although the Rams did finish the scrimmage already in progress against CFCA, it was decided that in the interest of ending the jamboree at a reasonable time that Orangewood would not face the Lakers that evening. The three underclassmen who stood out for the Eagles in Davis’ first game at the helm were Ajay Green, rising sophomore who played
Steven Ryzewski
Currently, there is not a ton of places to skate in Central Florida. How often are you at the RDV Ice Den? RDV, I’m probably here Monday
Steven Ryzewski
After taking the Ocoee Knights boys basketball program from a 6-20 record to a 21-5 mark during his four years at the helm, Rob Gordon has departed to become the head coach at Evans High School.
IF YOU GO WHEN: 7 p.m. Tuesday, May 26 Olympia Titans at Wekiva Mustangs WHERE: Wekiva High School, 2501 N. Hiawassee Road, Apopka EXTRA POINT: Titans fans get their first look at the program under the leadership of new head coach Kyle Hayes. the ball in the hands of his speedy skill-position players. Another sign that the kids on campus are taking a liking to their new coaching staff is in the numbers — Olympia has 72 kids on its spring roster. Hollis said camaraderie among his teammates and him has been elevated so far this spring, and the energy during practice has improved. “The team is closer than ever,” Hollis said. “It’s always exciting with (the new staff). Now, everyone loves coming to practice.” Contact Steven Ryzewski at sryzewski@wotimes.com.
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has progressed. “This year (Larson has) just taken off,” Bradley said. “He’s just thriving in the environment there. … Coach (Kevin) O’Sullivan runs a first-class program, and he’s very demanding.” Larson — who has played a big role for the Gators as the team’s nine-hitter — considers himself a player who can take care of whatever odds and ends his team requires from him. “I’m kind of just the guy who needs to get the little things done,” Larson said. “Play good defense, get bunts down and just be the guy who gets on base. I think I’ve done a pretty good job at it.” As his playing time has increased, Larson has been able to enjoy playing in a conference with several storied baseball programs — many that boast large home crowds in impressive facilities. “It’s actually a lot of fun,” Larson said. “Playing in some of these venues is pretty cool — Mississippi State, Ole Miss; they get 8,000 to 10,000 peo-
ple, and it gets pretty loud.” Things will get more intense in the coming weeks as the Gators navigate the SEC Tournament this week and NCAA Tournament beyond. Florida will begin play in Hoover at 9:30 p.m. Wednesday, with its opponent to be determined. The SEC Championship Game will take place at 4:30 p.m. Sunday and will air nationally on ESPN2. “All of us are excited,” Larson said of the team’s demeanor. “We’re ready to put it all together here toward the end of the year and see what happens.” Rest assured, Larson will have more than a few fans rooting for him and the Gators back here in West Orange County. “There’s nothing more gratifying then coaching a young man and, in a small part, helping him get to the next level and watching him flourish,” Bradley said. “He’s doing it himself — but I like to think we provided him a small avenue to have success.” Contact Steven Ryzewski at sryzewski@wotimes.com.
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THURSDAY, MAY 21, 2015
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stepping up by Steven Ryzewski | Sports Editor
Leaders emerge at Legacy spring camp Rising juniors Hilton Lamprecht and Walker Phillips have grown into leadership roles as the Eagles work to replace six outgoing seniors.
Camps are $125 except for High Impact Soccer which is $200.
Register Online at Foundationacademy.net ARCHERY - (Boys & Girls) - Coaches Alicia Weber & Robert Arnold 6/15/15 thru 6/19/15 (5 Days) - from 8am till Noon- Entering 1st grade to 12th grade BASEBALL Camp -(Boys) - Coach Brent Casteel 7/13/15 thru 7/16/15 (4 Days) - from 8am till Noon – Entering 4th grade to 6th grade 7/13/15 thru 7/16/15 (4 Days) - from 12:30 to 4:30 – Entering 7th grade to 9th grade Steven Ryzewski
Quarterback Hilton Lamprecht, replacing starter Colton Liddell who is graduating this spring, is optimistic about Legacy’s chances in the spring game this Friday.
IF YOU GO SPRING FOOTBALL JAMBOREE Legacy Charter, Bayshore (Tampa), International Community School (Winter Park), Bishop McLaughlin WHEN: 5:30 p.m. Friday, May 22 WHERE: Hungerford Field, 100 E. Kennedy Blvd., Eatonville EXTRA POINT: After graduating a large senior class, Legacy takes the field at 6:30 p.m. (vs. Bishop McLaughlin) and 7:30 p.m. (vs. Bayshore) against some Sunshine State Athletic Conference foes. season ago with its senior class — Lamprecht exuded confidence about the ability of his teammates to rise to the occasion. “We definitely miss (the seniors), but we are looking really good,” Lamprecht said. “They were a big part of our team, but we’ve got the shoes to fill them.” Phillips, in particular, has
embraced his new role with the team even as he recovers from a knee injury and is limited in contact at practice. “Coach Wiggers has told me that — that I need to step up and lead the younger guys and even the older guys, too,” Phillips said. “We don’t have as many guys, but we’re doing (well) with the guys we do have.” Roster depth has indeed been a problem this spring. “It’s a huge issue right now, because we still have some guys who got injured in the fall (who) haven’t fully recovered yet,” Wiggers said. “I see it getting better in the fall. You just get generally more commitment in the fall because it’s kind of the real deal. … (The spring is) a lot of grind for just one game.” Although this spring may be a bit trying for the Eagles, Wiggers is excited about the direction of his program. Legacy’s middle-school program has a whopping 10 eighth-graders, meaning his program should be in a good shape for the next few years. Contact Steven Ryzewski at sryzewski@wotimes.com.
BASKETBALL Camp -(Boys & Girls) - Coach Dejon Everson 6 /29/15 thru 7/2/15 (4 Days) - from 8am till Noon – Entering 1st grade to 9th grade FOOTBALL - (Boys) - Coach Brad Lord 6/22/15 thru 6/25/15 (4 Days) - 8am till Noon – Entering 1st grade to 9th grade HIGH IMPACT SOCCER - (Boys & Girls) - Coach Ashton Baptiste *includes instruction from Ex-EPL & 2015 FIFA Game athlete Claude Davis 7/6/15 thru 7/9/15 (4 Days) - from 8am till Noon – Entering 7th grade to 12th SOCCER - (Boys & Girls) - Coach Ashton Baptiste 6/29/15 thru 7/2/15 (4 Days) - from 8am till Noon – Entering 1st to 9th grade VOLLEYBALL - (Girls) - Coach Danny Eleutiza 7/6/15 thru 7/9/15 (4 Days) - from 8am till Noon – Entering 1st to 9th grade 171772
OCOEE — Every program, every year, graduates seniors. In that regard, the Legacy Eagles football team is not unique. However, for a small varsity program like the one the charter school fields to compete in the Sunshine State Athletic Conference, the loss of six seniors — including the program’s standout quarterback and best player, Colton Liddell — is one that will be felt more profoundly than, say, at an 8A program. Replacing that senior class and getting new faces up to par has been the focus for head coach Jarrett Wiggers and his staff so far this spring. “It’s definitely been difficult,” Wiggers said. “We’ve restructured our practices this spring based on the fact that we have a lot of newness. … We’ve just sort of tried to roll with it this year.” Beyond traditional sessions out on the practice field, Wiggers said his team has been busy working on speed, strength, conditioning and “chalk talk.” With so many new players, installation of offensive and defensive sets has been tedious for the Eagles. Still, what has been encouraging is that, with the departure of leaders who doubled as player-coaches on the field in 2014 — outgoing seniors such as Liddell and Dillan Hudson — new players have decided to step up for Legacy. “Our underclassmen have been really excited about being challenged with leadership opportunities,” Wiggers said, referencing rising junior quarterback Hilton Lamprecht and rising junior wide receiver/defensive lineman Walker Phillips specifically. “They have been with us since the very beginning, and they’ve really got a good sense of school pride.” Although the task can be daunting — Legacy went 5-5 a
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FLEET FEET by Steven Ryzewski | Sports Editor
Charter school’s 5K a success The inaugural Legacy of Hope 5K had more than 200 registered participants and was won by a Legacy High student. WINTER GARDEN — The Legacy of Hope 5K was run for the first time in Winter Garden, with the proceeds to benefit Hope Charter and Legacy High School. The debut for the event was encouraging, with 223 participants registering and 197 runners completing the 5K May 9. “I thought the event went very well for a first year,” said Dawn Burns, school office manager and one of the lead coordinators for the race. “Everyone seemed excited to be there for being that early in the morning, and it was a beautiful day.” The overall race winner was Legacy student Cole Prium, 16, of Winter Garden, who ran a time of 18 minutes — an average of 5:48 per mile. The second- and third-place finishers, overall, were both from Ocoee. Kenyon Congdon
finished at 18:77, and Hunter Filipello clocked in at 19:35. Among the 130 women who ran the race, Shara Bryant, of Montverde, finished first with a time of 23:44. Fellow Montverde resident Kinley Bryant clocked in at 25:25, and Kathy Pruitt, of Orlando, finished close behind with a time of 25:38 to secure third place. Kinley Bryant, 12, was also the top finisher for children ages 12 and under. Ocoee’s Anderson Cooper, 11, clocked in at 26:49, and William Walker, 12, finished at 29:22. Four competitors ages 65 and older finished the race on Saturday morning, with Winter Garden’s Jorge Amezquita, 69, running a scorching 25:51. Montverde’s Glen Brecheen, 69, ran a 29:49, Maria Vasquez, 66, of Winter Garden, ran a 35:50, and Apopka’s Mauren Mannion, 67, clocked in at 1:02:44.
The race began and finished at Tanner Hall in Winter Garden, and the average time from the 197 finishers was 40:18. The average pace was 13 minutes per mile. Full results are available at the website for Tri & Run in Winter Garden, TrinRun.com, which helped organize the event for the charter school. The funds raised, which were not tallied as of press time, will help fund new athletic facilities for the school’s fledgling athletic programs. Items on the wish list for the school’s athletic programs include a fitness area and weight room, as well as athletic playing fields on land the school has acquired adjacent to its campus. “We loved working with Tri & Run, and they helped to really facilitate the run and guide us through the whole process,” Burns said. “After seeing the numbers, I hope that we can continue doing the event in future years. … Even if we didn’t raise a ton of money, I definitely feel that everybody had fun.”
Winter Garden Squeeze 2015 Season - Special Section Support Your Local Team! Advertise Your Business to the Community. The Season starts on June 4th. Plan to attend a game and enjoy the fun.
across the board by Steven Ryzewski | Sports Editor
Dr. Phillips wins MetroWest All-Sports Championship
boys basketball, boys weightlifting, girls track and field, girls water polo, boys lacrosse and boys volleyball. Additionally, the Panthers were runner up in girls golf, girls swimming, boys cross country, girls cross country, girls weightlifting, boys track and field and girls tennis. The Metro Conference’s West Division is made up of nine schools: Apopka, DP, Edgewater, Evans, Jones, Ocoee, Olympia, Wekiva and West Orange.
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The Dr. Phillips Panthers placed first out of nine teams in the Metro Conference’s West Division this school year, winning their sixth consecutive All-Sports Championship.
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For a sixth consecutive school year, Dr. Phillips High School has won the All-Sports Championship for the Metro Conference’s West Division. The Panthers, across all of their programs, earned a total of 227 points to outpace runner-up West Orange by 12.5 points and third-place Olympia by 32.5 points. Dr. Phillips was MetroWest Conference champion in 11 sports: boys golf, boys swimming, football, cheerleading,
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THURSDAY, MAY 21, 2015
ROCKING THE RIM by Steven Ryzewski | Sports Editor
Celebrates Memorial Day www.WestOaksMall.com
Harlem Wizards dazzle crowd at fundraiser for local schools
For you added shopping convenience West Oaks Mall is open Memorial Day from 10AM-9PM
WINTER GARDEN — The Harlem Wizards came to town May 15, putting on quite a show for the fans in attendance inside West Orange High School’s gymnasium. The Wizards, a world-famous traveling basketball team, took on the “West Side Slammers” — a team comprising teachers from Sunset Park Elementary, Windermere Elementary, Sand Lake Elementary, Bridgewater Middle School and West Orange High School. Proceeds from the event benefited the Sunset Park PTO and the Lions’ Pride Foundation at
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Glenridge Middle School. The night included basketball tricks, hijinks and slam dunks, but the fun didn’t stop there. The Wizards kept the crowd engaged and brought several spectators into the show for some good-natured comedy and laughter. Music and dancing went on throughout — include a timeout during which all the children in attendance danced with the players on the court. Despite a valiant effort from the Slammers, the Wizards came away with the 82-74 victory. When not getting in trouble, A-Train dazzled the crowd with his skills and tricks.
Side Walk Sale & Bonus Back Program LIST OF PARTICIPATING STORES: Artopia’s Art Gallery • Bonita • The Braids & Weave Factory Brinson Photography Studio • Evelyn’s Creations • GNC Gymboree • Perfumania • Piercing Pagoda Shoes Palace • Softtail’s Place Things Remembered & More!
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Devon “Livewire” Curry flew for a thunderous dunk.
Delaney Reilly, left, and Payton Bittick grabbed a quick selfie with one of the Wizards.
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Johnny Scott was having a good hair day for the West Side Slammers.
Rosemary Ford’s ball-handling skills were not to be underestimated.
CHURCH DIRECTORY To advertise in the Church Directory call 407-656-2121or email sfelt@wotimes.com FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 125 E Plant St., Winter Garden 407-656-2352 Sundays 8:30 am Traditional 9:45 am Bible Study 11:00 am Contemporary Awana - Wednesdays - 6pm Pastor Tim Grosshans www.fbcwg.org 2nd Campus: “FOUNDATION WORSHIP” Sundays 9:45 am - All Ages at Foundation Academy High School 15304 Tilden Road - Winter Garden www.FoundationWorship.com 407.730.1867 STARKE LAKE BAPTIST CHURCH 611 West. Ave., Ocoee Pastor Jeff Pritchard (407) 656-2351 Email: starkelakebaptist@gmail.com
CATHOLIC
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WEST ORANGE CHURCH OF CHRIST 1450 Daniels Road Winter Garden 407-656-2770 www.cocwo.com
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FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 125 N. Lakeview Ave Winter Garden Service Times 9:00 AM and 11:15 AM Phone – 407-656-1135 Web: fumcwg.org
PRESBYTERIAN
OCOEE CHURCH OF GOD Pastor Thomas Odom 1105 N. Lakewood Avenue, Ocoee 407-656-8011
PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF THE LAKES, USA Conroy-Windermere Rd. @ Lincoln Ave. Sunday School 9:00AM, Worship 10:30 407-291-2886 Worship on Wed. 7:00 - 7:30 PM “Come hear the Gospel” Rev. Ferdinand Brits www.pcol.org
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CHURCH OF THE MESSIAH 241 N. Main, Winter Garden Services: 8, 9:30, & 11am, 7pm www.churchofthemessiah.com
UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST
WINDERMERE UNION CHURCH 10710 Park Ridge-Gotha Rd. Windermere, FL 34786 407-876-2112 Worship times: 9:00am Adult Sunday School 10:00am Worship www.windermereunion.org
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
RESURRECTION CATHOLIC CHURCH 1211 Winter GardenVineland Rd. Winter Garden. 407-656-3113
God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them. Hebrews 6:10 (NIV)
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HOOK, LINE AND SINKER by Steven Ryzewski | Sports Editor
IRON DAD
Working out can be child’s play
GONE FISHIN’ With several famous fishing lakes in close proximity to area schools and well-known teams located in surrounding counties, West Orange County seems a logical expansion ground for high-school fishing.
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t may come as a surprise to some, but “competitive high-school fishing” is more than just a mash-up of words. It’s an actual thing. There are teams, state championships — including one here in Florida at Lake Toho near Kissimmee — and even a national championship. Although it is a club sport in most states, including Florida, it is a sanctioned high school sport in Illinois and Kentucky. It’s growing, with the Student Angler Federation — an organization that is a part of the larger Bass Federation — growing particularly well in Florida. The organization held its fifth annual state championship event Feb. 28. Mark Gintert, the national youth director for TBF who also plans and executes all of the organization’s state championships, has watched the Florida event evolve from a nine-team inaugural tournament to just fewer than 50 teams this spring. “ F r o m that initial start,
that initial nine-team tournament (in 2011), we’ve been growing slowly but surely,” Gintert said. “There’s no reason why Florida can’t catch up (with states with larger events).” The states Gintert is referencing are places such as Tennessee, which had 125 teams for its most recent state championship, and Arkansas, which had 117 teams. One of the key areas for the sport’s growth is Central Florida. Already, programs have popped up in four of the five counties bordering Orange County. Bartow High School has a program in Polk County, Lake Minneola and Montverde have anglers in Lake County, Oviedo High School has a program in Seminole County, and there is large club in Osceola County that supports several schools. All of which raises the question: Is Orange County, and more specifically, West Orange County, the next place for high-school fishing to bud?
Ocoee High School
West Orange High School
Olympia High School Googlemaps
West Orange, Ocoee and Olympia are all located in relatively close proximity to the Butler Chain of Lakes and other fishing locations. “I don’t see why not; I’m actually surprised it hasn’t,” said Lamar Chisholm, director for the Osceola Anglers High School Fishing Club. “We go up there (to West Orange) and fish the Butler Chain. Our kids love going up there and fishing.” The proximity of the Butler Chain and other well-known fishing lakes in and around West Orange C o u n t y, to schools such as Olympia, West Orange,
SEE FISHING / PAGE 6B
COLLEGE FISHING BOOMS AS CASH PRIZES FLOW
If high-school fishing is growing rapidly, so is its big brother — college fishing. There are more than 600 bass fishing clubs at campuses around the nation. One of the reasons the sport has had such appeal and growth, as chronicled in a 2013 article in TIME Magazine, is that competitors can win cash and prizes. As cited in the article, the winner of the FLW Outdoors National Championship in April 2013, the University of Louisiana at Monroe’s team, took home a $27,000 bass boat and $3,000 in cash. As a club sport, it is outside the NCAA’s regulations. To learn more about a local college fishing team, the University of Central Florida’s “The Reel Knights,” visit ucffishingclub.weebly.com.
ON YOUR MARK >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
Steven Ryzewski
Lake Down, one of the lakes in the Butler Chain of Lakes, is just seconds from the campus of Olympia High School, leading some to believe the West Orange County school could soon have a fishing team.
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FITNESS BELLY DANCE FOR LIFE WHAT: This three-month program is designed to incorporate technique, cardio fitness and weight training all while learning the art of belly dance. WHEN: 7 p.m. Thursdays, May 21 to Aug. 27 WHERE: Jessie Brock Community Center, 310 N. Dillard St., Winter Garden COST: $50 for Winter Garden residents per three-month session, $55 for non-residents
VIVA LA MARGARITA 5K WHAT: Enjoy a 3.1-mile course filled with fun surprises, then reward yourself with a refreshing drink of margarita. Celebration begins way before the race, and the fiesta continues way after the course is completed. Non-alcoholic options also available for those under 21 and those who do not consume alcohol. WHEN: 10 a.m. Saturday, May 23 WHERE: Lake Eola Park, 521 E. Washington St., Orlando COST: $45 per participant REGISTRATION: vivalamargarita5k.com/ orlando-fl
COED SAND VOLLEYBALL WHAT: Coed five-versus-five sand volleyball league put on by Orlando Sport and Social Club, taking place on Wednesdays and Thursdays in downtown Orlando. WHEN: Wednesday league begins June 17; Thursday league begins June 18. WHERE: Festival Park, 2911 E. Robinson St., Orlando COST: $350 per team or $70 per individual REGISTRATION: Open now at orlandosportandsocialclub.com/ pages/sandvolleyball
WEST ORANGE TIMES
WOTimes.com
THURSDAY, MAY 21, 2015
FISHING / PAGE 5B Ocoee, Dr. Phillips and Windermere Prep is similar to one of the reasons Chisholm started the program in Osceola. “The state championship is held in Lake Toho every year; I said, ‘That’s right here in Osceola County, and we don’t have anybody to represent us,’” Chisholm said. “It’s on our home turf, so let’s get it going.” In Florida, teams are clubs and are not sanctioned by the FHSAA. Still, at schools where the sport has taken root, growth has been rapid. Gintert, who has been a witness to the sport’s rise, said it has a lot to do with its broad appeal. “One of the greatest things about high-school fishing is it creates, in my mind, one of the most positive outlets for kids who aren’t already involved in high-school sports,” Gintert said, citing a study in Illinois that suggested six out of every 10 anglers was previously not involved in a sport on his or her respective campus. “These were kids who were just kind of roaming the halls looking for something to do,” he said. “They were outdoor kids who might not have played baseball, basketball, football.” The broad appeal is not limited to male students, either. Fifteen percent of the names in the Student Angler Federation’s database are female. “It really gives them an opportunity to participate with the boys on an equal footing,” Gintert said. All of that isn’t to say that traditional athletes haven’t taken to high-school fishing
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as a diversion or further competitive outlet, also. “My first year, I had two defensive tackles and an offensive guard — high-football players — on my team; they were giants,” said Derek Boswell, who runs the program at Bartow. “Next to them is a 95-pound ninth-grader, and yet he can catch more fish and compete with those guys. … What I like about (high school fishing) is you don’t have to be big and strong to compete — that 95-pound freshman caught more fish, and he went home with the trophy.” The value, supporters said, goes beyond just the broad appeal across different student demographics. “We are able to get the students out in an environment and become better citizens understanding of our natural resources,” Boswell said. “Teaching our students about fish care or about vegetation that grows in our Kissimmee Chain, about what is a native plant and what is not.” Then, of course, like so many other youth and highschool-age sports that have experienced growth, there is the college factor and scholarship dollars available. “Most of your major universities now have a bass fishing team, and most of them now also give scholarship money to those individuals,” said Jason Foss, who runs the program at Oviedo High School. “I try to get (the kids) to see the big picture and see that, ‘You guys can really start looking at getting scholarship money from fishing.’” Foss notes nearby UCF has one of the best college-fishing programs in the nation, and the four-year universities
Courtesy photos
The home at 9746 Wyland Court, in Keene’s Pointe, Windermere, sold May 6, for $1.7 million. It features five bedrooms, five baths, a pool and 6,800 square feet of living area.
Keene’s Pointe home sells for $1.7 million A home in the Keene’s Pointe community in Windermere topped all West Orange residential real-estate sales from May 1 to 7. The home at 9746 Wyland Court, Windermere, sold May 6, for $1.7 million. Built in 2001, it has five bedrooms, five baths, a pool and 6,800 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $250.
DR. PHILLIPS BRENTWOOD CLUB
The home at 9678 Camberley Circle, Orlando, sold May 6, for $540,000. Built in 1993, it has four bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,988 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $180.72.
CITRUS CHASE
Most of your major universities now have a bass fishing team, and most of them now also give scholarship money to those individuals.
POINT CYPRESS
The town house at 8919 Della Scala Circle, Orlando, sold May 1, for $385,000. Built in 2012, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 2,581 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $149.17.
SAND LAKE POINT
The home at 10105 Carrington Court, Orlando, sold May 5, for $373,000. Built in 1989, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths, a pool and 2,403 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $155.22.
GOTHA CITRUS OAKS
The condo at 6070 Westgate Drive, No. 102, Orlando, sold May 4, for $55,000. Built in 1988, it has one bedroom, one bath and 686 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $80.17.
FOUNTAINS AT METROWEST
The condo at 6071 Westgate Drive, No. 311, Orlando, sold May 6, for $85,000. Built in 1999, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,077 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $78.92.
HAMPTONS AT METROWEST
The condo at 3384 Corona Village Way, No. 108, Orlando, sold May 5, for $82,854 (REO/ bank owned). Built in 2000, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,107 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $74.85.
STONEBRIDGE RESERVE
The condo at 3332 Robert Trent Jones Drive, No. 309, Orlando, sold May 1, for $160,000. Built in 2006, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,447 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $110.57. The condo at 3314 Robert Trent Jones Drive, No. 305, Orlando, sold May 7, for $152,000. Built in 2007, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,412 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $107.65.
VISTA ROYALE
The home at 7674 Mount Carmel Drive, Orlando, sold May 4, for $268,500. Built in 1994, it has three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 1,714 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $156.65.
MONTVERDE HARBOR OAKS
The home at 16017 Harbor Oaks Drive, Montverde, sold
May 6, for $355,000. Built in 1996, it has five bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 3,708 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $95.74.
LAKE FLORENCE SHORES
The home at 17430 Hillside Drive, Montverde, sold May 1, for $142,000. Built in 1991, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,295 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $109.65.
PINES OF MONTVERDE
The home at 17739 Sugar Pine Way, Montverde, sold May 1, for $244,900. Built in 2003, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,350 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $104.21.
OAKLAND OAKLAND
The home at 207 W. Gulley Ave., Oakland, sold May 6, for $102,000 (REO/bank owned). Built in 1940, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,324 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $77.04.
OCOEE ADMIRAL POINTE
The home at 935 Chauncey Court, Ocoee, sold May 6, for $247,000 (REO/bank owned). Built in 1998, it has four bedrooms, four baths and 2,946 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $83.84.
BORDEAUX
The condo at 1975 Erving Circle, No. 106, Ocoee, sold May 6, for $68,000. Built in 2001, it has one bedroom, one bath and 702 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $96.87.
FOXFIRE
The home at 1605 Starfire Lane, Ocoee, sold May 7, for $67,000 (REO/bank owned). Built in 1977, it has three bedrooms, one bath, a pool and 1,350 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $49.63.
170712
The home at 9420 Daney St., Gotha, sold May 1, for $130,000. Built in 1992, it has three bedrooms, two-andone-half baths and 1,580 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $82.28.
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171691
Jason Foss, head of the program at Oviedo High School
The town house at 8256 Limetree Court, Orlando, sold May 1, for $185,000. Built in 1981, it has two bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,296 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $142.75.
METROWEST
170677
Mark Gintert, the national youth director for The Bass Federation, which runs the Student Angler Federation, encourages interested individuals to consult highschoolfishing.org for more information on starting a program. Locally, Jason Foss, the coach at Oviedo High School, and Derek Boswell, the coach at Bartow High School, both are passionate about growing the sport and can be contacted for advice on how to begin a program. Boswell can be reached via email at bboswell4@yahoo.com, and Foss can be reached at jason_foss@scps.k12.fl.us.
REAL ESTATE by Michael Eng | Executive Editor
in the south have, particularly, taken to the sport. Which, of course, brings us back to the question at hand — is West Orange and its high school a natural place for the sport to expand? Foss thinks so. “Absolutely. The Butler Chain of Lakes … that’s probably my favorite lakes now to fish on,” Foss said. “I would assume that, with the amount of anglers in that general area, that it would pop up quickly.” The former college baseball player and competitive fisher also has heard rumors of interest from parents. “A friend of mine who does some stuff for a team out of Tampa, I guess at the last tournament there were some parents there from Olympia, and I think Windermere Prep — they were really interested in starting clubs at their school,” Foss said, adding he has had casual conversations with people from nearby Wekiva High School and Ocoee High School about starting programs. All of this is music to the ears of somebody such as West Orange sophomore Dalton White — an avid angler already, who along with his buddies fishes every weekend. “As soon as (a team) came to West Orange, I’d fish for it, and I’d be into it,” White said. “There’d be plenty of interest. … That would be awesome, representing my school and hometown.” Should teams pop up in West Orange, they could be part of a Central Florida-specific league, something Chisholm said he and other coaches have been in preliminary discussions about. As for the growth of the sport, nationally, Gintert said the proof is in the numbers. “We have gone from zero to (more than) 13,000 highschool anglers nationwide in our database,” Gintert said. “That number is growing every day. We get about 15 requests a day for information on high-school fishing. We think the sky is the limit for this.” Contact Steven Ryzewski at sryzewski@wotimes.com.
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WEST ORANGE TIMES
WOTimes.com
THURSDAY, MAY 21, 2015
RESERVE AT MEADOW LAKE
The town house at 1283 Glenleigh Drive, Ocoee, sold May 5, for $169,000. Built in 2012, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,751 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $96.52.
VINEYARDS
The home at 2708 Cabernet Circle, Ocoee, sold May 1, for $255,000. Built in 2005, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,495 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $102.20.
WESMERE
The home at 522 Buckhaven Loop, Ocoee, sold May 5, for $255,000. Built in 1997, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,000 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $127.50.
WEST ORANGE LAKEVIEW HEIGHTS
The home at 9024 Rose Lake Shore Lane, Orlando, sold May 5, for $134,000 (short sale). Built in 1963, it has two bedrooms, one bath and 1,967 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $68.12.
NEWBURY PARK
The town house at 8595 Leeland Archer Blvd., No. 81, Orlando, sold May 1, for $203,000. Built in 2007, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 1,512 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $134.26.
WILLOWWOOD
The home at 8635 French Oak Drive, Orlando, sold May 1, for $395,000. Built in 1986, it has four bedrooms, two-andone-half baths, a pool and 2,398 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $164.72.
The home at 640 Dharma Circle, Winter Garden, sold May 6, for $139,000 (REO/ bank owned). Built in 2001, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,403 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $99.07.
The home at 15121 Harrowgate Way, Winter Garden, sold May 4, for $185,000. Built in 2003, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,360 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $136.03.
LAKE SAWYER
HARBOR
The home at 2370 Baronsmede Court, Winter Garden, sold May 4, for $392,000. Built in 2002, it has five bedrooms, four baths and 3,387 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $115.74.
The home at 6447 Lake Burden View Drive, Windermere, sold May 6, for $1.25 million. Built in 2006, it has five bedrooms, five-and-one-half baths, a pool and 4,953 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $252.37. The home at 12860 Lake Sawyer Lane, Windermere, sold April 29, for $375,000. Built in 1995, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,725 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $217.39.
LAKE SAWYER SOUTH
The town house at 7711 Fairgrove Ave., Windermere, sold May 1, for $209,900 (REO/ bank owned). Built in 2009, it has three bedrooms, twoand-one-half baths and 1,644 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $127.68.
LAKES OF WINDERMERE
The home at 13047 Penshurst Lane, Windermere, sold May 4, for $270,000. Built in 2007, it has three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 1,948 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $138.60. The home at 12975 Overstreet Road, Windermere, sold May 6, for $211,000. Built in 2009, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,151 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $98.09.
LAKES OF WINDERMERE — PEACHTREE
The home at 13409 Chariho Lane, Windermere, sold May 1, for $295,000. Built in 2005, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 2,600 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $113.46.
LAKESIDE AT LAKES OF WINDERMERE
The villa at 8253 Maritime Flag St., No. 205, Windermere, sold May 1, for $176,000. Built in 2012, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,476 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $119.24. The condo at 8276 Maritime Flag St., No. 310, Windermere, sold May 6, for $169,000. Built in 2007, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,442 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $117.20.
SAWYER SHORES
The home at 6634 Lagoon St., Windermere, sold May 6, for $365,000. Built in 1973, it has three bedrooms, two baths
The home at 438 Anessa Rose Loop, in Meadow Ridge, Ocoee, sold May 6, for $417,500. It features four bedrooms, three baths, two half-baths and 3,170 square feet of living area. and 1,557 square feet of living area on 1.83 lakefront acres. The price per square foot is $234.43. The home at 6638 Sawyer Shores Lane, Windermere, sold May 7, for $215,000 (short sale). Built in 1979, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,288 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $166.93.
SUMMERPORT/EDEN’S HAMMOCK
The town house at 14150 Bridgewater Crossings Blvd., Windermere, sold May 4, for $217,000. Built in 2006, it has three bedrooms, two-andone-half baths and 1,642 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $132.16.
BELLE MEADE
The home at 15504 Belle Meade Drive, Winter Garden, sold May 6, for $330,000. Built in 2008, it has four bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,441 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $135.19.
BLACK LAKE PARK
The home at 601 Cascading Creek Lane, Winter Garden, sold May 5, for $267,500. Built in 2006, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,834 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $94.39.
The home at 13814 Ingelnook Drive, Windermere, sold May 1, for $297,697. Built in 2014, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,348 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $126.79.
HICKORY HAMMOCK
The home at 15737 Citrus Grove Loop, Winter Garden, sold May 1, for $549,990. Built in 2015, it has five bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 4,770 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $115.30.
INDEPENDENCE/ SIGNATURE LAKES
The home at 14906 Speer Lake Drive, Winter Garden, sold May 1, for $670,000. Built in 2015, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 3,640 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $184.07.
ISLES OF LAKE HANCOCK
The home at 14409 Isleview Drive, Winter Garden, sold May 1, for $1.6 million. Built
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The town house at 7418 Bentonshire Ave., Windermere, sold May 1, for $175,000. Built in 2007, it has two bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,228 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $142.51.
WILLOWS AT LAKE RHEA
The home at 2117 Kane Park Way, Windermere, sold May 4, for $470,000. Built in 1994, it has four bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,734 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $171.91.
WINTER GARDEN ALEXANDER RIDGE
The home at 1964 Pantheon Drive, Winter Garden, sold May 6, for $286,750. Built in 2015, it has four bedrooms,
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THIS IS A GREAT BUY ON THIS 3 BDRM. 2BA. SPLIT PLAN, living/great room, formal dining, rock wood burning fireplace, KITCHEN comes complete with range, refrigerator, dishwasher. Kitchen also features breakfast bar, breakfast area and pantry. FRENCH DOORS LEADING to covered screened lanai, plus screened lanai with sunken HOT TUB/SPA. HUGE lot, no rear neighbors, creek in back of property. NO HOA, park your RV/ BOAT... DOWNTOWN W.G. is minutes away, great access to 408,429 & turnpike!!! Asking only $210,000
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BELLARIA
Do YOU Own Waterfront?
The home at 13508 Bellaria Circle, Windermere, sold May 7, for $1.035 million. Built in 2012, it has four bedrooms, four baths, a pool and 3,711 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $278.90.
Lakefront Properties Are In HIGH Demand! Please contact us if you are thinking of selling! 171174
DOWN POINT
TICKER OAKS
The condo at 1612 Scarlet Oak Loop, No. 623, Winter Garden, sold May 6, for $155,000. Built in 2010, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,696 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $91.39. The condo at 15641 Boggy Oak Circle, No. 62, Winter Garden, sold May 4, for $154,900. Built in 2010, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,544 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $100.32.
TUSCANY
The home at 1606 Malcolm Point Drive, Winter Garden, sold May 5, for $270,000. Built in 2003, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,455 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $109.98.
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WINDERMERE
The home at 4400 Down Point Lane, Windermere, sold May 2, for $1.375 million. Built in 1977, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,882 square feet of living area on 4.32 lakefront acres. The price per square foot is $477.10.
four baths and 2,562 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $111.92.
The home at 201 Harbor Drive, Winter Garden, sold May 5, for $205,000. Built in 1992, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,555 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $131.83.
STONEYBROOK WEST
The Blahut Team | 407.590.0004 Theresa@RegalRealtyOrlando.com
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The home at 1747 Sparkling Water Circle, Ocoee, sold May 1, for $205,000 (REO/bank owned). Built in 1995, it has four bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 2,492 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $82.26.
DANIELS CROSSING
LD
REFLECTIONS
STONE CREEK
KEENE’S POINTE
SO
The home at 1400 Doreen Ave., Ocoee, sold May 6, for $110,000. Built in 1960, it has three bedrooms, one-andone-half baths and 1,167 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $94.26.
The home at 14409 Isleview Drive, in the Isles of Lake Hancock, Winter Garden, sold May 1, for $1.6 million. It features six bedrooms, six-and-one-half baths, a pool and 4,741 square feet of living area.
The home at 464 Regal Downs Circle, Winter Garden, sold May 5, for $177,000 (REO/bank owned). Built in 2001, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,200 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $80.45.
ST
PEACH LAKE MANOR
REGAL POINTE
JU
The home at 438 Anessa Rose Loop, Ocoee, sold May 6, for $417,500. Built in 2008, it has four bedrooms, three baths, two half-baths and 3,170 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $131.70.
The home at 11315 Ledgement Lane, Windermere, sold May 7, for $470,000. Built in 2002, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths, a pool and 3,080 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $152.60. The home at 11444 Arborside Bend Way, Windermere, sold May 1, for $284,000. Built in 2002, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,019 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $140.66.
***TRADITIONAL SALE*** LOCATED IN COURTLEA PARK*** 5 bdrm. 4 ba. 3074 sq.ft. of living!!! FORMAL living room, dining room, family room, MASTER BEDROOM and 3 of the other bedrooms are located on the first floor. UPSTAIRS is BONUS room, bedroom and full bath. KITCHEN features 42” cabinets, GRANITE countertops, all STAINLESS STEEL APPLIANCES STAY!!! Conservation area in back, NO REAR NEIGHBORS!!! Walk, ride your bike on the WEST ORANGE TRAIL to downtown WINTER GARDEN!!! CUSTOM BUILT BY TAYLOR MORRISON HOMES!!! Asking only $330,000
WHAT A BUY! LISTED 12 DAYS!
3 Bdrm, 2 ba.***Traditional sale and a fantastic buy in a great subdivision with stately trees!!! On cul-de-sac, great back yard with open paver patio and privacy fenced. No carpet in this split bedroom plan. All wood laminate and ceramic tile flooring... Granite countertops in kitchen and baths! All kitchen appliances stay all window coverings stay! Freshly painted inside!!! Large master bdrm and large walk in closet! Great home, great area, walk to the West Orange Trail!!! Minutes away from downtown Winter Garden. Close to the 429, 408 and turnpike! *Owner occupied community only* no renters. Asking only $249,000
AWAY FROM THE CROWDS--MOTIVATED SELLER!!!
ARE YOU LOOKING FOR 5 ACRES, NO HOA AND A FABULOUS HOME??? LOOK NO FURTHER!!! Take a look at this great home with 4 bdrms. 3 baths, formal living/dining, family room, kitchen with breakfast nook, split bedroom plan, inside laundry room, covered screened large lanai, attached 2 car garage, huge metal building 3 roll up doors, perfect for a workshop, or a car enthusiast or a great MAN CAVE... Plus covered storage, and 2 storage container’s. The home has just been remodeled new porcelin tile, kitchen has been update with quartz counter tops, new oven/cooktop, bathrooms updated, new plumbing 2014, new water heater 2014. Electronic front gate. Great access to the 429,408 and turnpike. Asking Only $479,000
!
MEADOW RIDGE
GLENMUIR
LD
The home at 778 Ayden Oak Lane, Ocoee, sold May 6, for $235,000. Built in 2010, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 2,379 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $98.78.
The home at 23 Zachary Wade St., Winter Garden, sold May 4, for $219,900. Built in 2002, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 1,853 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $118.67.
SO
MCCORMICK WOODS
LAKEVIEW RESERVE
170690
The home at 107 Iliad Court, Ocoee, sold May 4, for $221,000. Built in 1993, it has four bedrooms, two-and-onehalf baths and 2,269 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $97.40.
The home at 17750 Black Rail St., Windermere, sold May 1, for $655,533. Built in 2015, it has six bedrooms, four baths and 4,994 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $131.26.
PE SA ND LE IN G!
LAKE OLYMPIA
in 1999, it has six bedrooms, six-and-one-half baths, a pool and 4,741 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $377.48.
ST
The home at 1762 Palmerston Circle, Ocoee, sold May 1, for $221,000. Built in 2006, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,177 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $101.52.
ENCLAVE
JU
KENSINGTON MANOR
7B
JUST REDUCED $5,000
SAY HELLO, to this fantastic buy in TUSCANY!!! This 4 Bdrm. 2 Ba. beauty is waiting for a new home owner, this is a TRADITIONAL SALE, NOT a short sale or bank owned. No rear neighbors!!! Step inside to the impressive Travertine tile, throughout except for bedrooms and living room. This home features a formal living room and dining room, family room with wood burning fireplace, kitchen with breakfast nook, breakfast bar, pantry and all kitchen appliances stay! Inside laundry room, split bedroom plan, large master bedroom adjoined by master bath, garden tub, separate shower, his/her closets, dual sinks. Gorgeous screened lanai, sparkling pool, heated spa, open wood deck off of lanai, fenced yard. Asking only $294,900.
SHORT ON SPACE? TAKE A LOOK AT THIS!!!
THIS HOME WAS BUILT IN 2012!!! 5 bdrm. 3 ba., Formal living, formal dining, FAMILY ROOM, kitchen comes complete with ALL APPLIANCES, 42” cabinets, breakfast bar, pantry, breakfast area. First floor has one bedroom and guest bath. UPSTAIRS is MASTER BEDROOM adjoined by master bath, GARDEN tub with separate shower, his/her closets. Other three bedrooms, LAUNDRY ROOM and guest bath. All blinds stay!!! This home also features a covered screened LANAI, large PRIVACY VINYL FENCED BACK YARD. Community pool, walk to WEST ORANGE TRAIL, minutes from downtown WINTER GARDEN, 408,429 & TURNPIKE...Asking only $325,000
8B
WEST ORANGE TIMES
WOTimes.com
THURSDAY, MAY 21, 2015
Here's My Card AIR CONDITIONING
BUSINESS DIRECTORY PET SERVICES
AUTO SERVICE CONTINUED
Have clipper, will travel
TFN
7/30/15
Mobile In-Home
Dog Grooming By Cara
25 yrs. experience
881 S. 9th Street • Winter Garden, FL 34787
-FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED –
407.296.9622 407.877.6268
www.gsairsystems.com email: gsairsystems@cfl.rr.com Licensed & Insured - State License #CAC1814407
Your pet’s home away from home
OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 8AM - 5PM
Call for a FREE estimate on Equipment Replacement. We offer financing with approved credit
Puppy Dreams Pet Hotel a unique no-cage facility daycare and overnight boarding
(407) 654-8885
703 S. Vineland Rd. Winter Garden, FL 34787
407-656-4707
www.puppydreams.com
www.budgetupullit.com
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
COMPUTERS
To advertise in this section call 407-656-2121
110 Taylor St. • Ocoee • (407) 656-4575
407.374.0233
UPGRADES & REPAIRS
SERVICE Ocoee, FL
Danny Motes
bluekitecomputers.com
VIRUS & SPYWARE REMOVAL
sales@bluekitecomputers.com
DATA & PASSWORD RECOVERY
Cell 407-466-4738 Tel 407-654-2395 Fax 407-654-2986
SOLVING PROBLEMS SINCE 1990
WIRELESS & WIRED NETWORKING
MORE THAN JUST
Branch Manager
4/28/16
Travis Hamric
• Bridgetone • Michelin • Toyo • BFG Tires
1081 9th Street Winter Garden, FL 34787
• ALIGNMENT • BRAKES • SHOCKS • OIL & LUBE SERVICE • NEW & USED TIRES • REPAIR & BALANCING • ROAD SERVICE • WE INSTALL LIFTS!
Mention this ad for
10% OFF your rental
(407) 654-9516 Office (407) 491-0355 Mobile (407) 654-0145 Fax pcm050@sunbeltrentals.com
STEVE DIAMOND
CPA/CGMA Certified Business Coach Corporate Training
“Learn how to work smarter in your business, not just harder” Office: Email: Web:
sunbeltrentals.com
MV03215
FITNESS SERVICES
Mobil 1 Oil
TFN
FIRST LESSON
FREE TRIAL Join us Now!
OPENING HOURS Monday-Friday 3.00pm-9.00pm
Real Estate
Receive 10% OFF
www.eaglemartialarts.wix.com
Phone 407-656-6646
MORTGAGE
REG# MV-01095
I’m an MBA and a Real Estate Broker. Don’t trust your Real Estate Investment Sale to just anyone.
Bring this ad in and
“Your Complete Service Center” 10 West Story Rd. Winter Garden, FL 34787
33 West Silver Star Rd. • Ocoee, FL 34761
Richard Hudson • Reggie Hudson
(407) 421-5068 sdiamond@focalpointcoaching.com www.stevediamond.focalpointcoaching.com sdiamond@focalpointcoaching.com www.linkedin.com/in/SteveDiamond 8223 Stonemason Court, Windermere, FL 34786
REALTORS
321-314-0249
TFN
TFN
www.Firetechextinguisher.com
CONSTRUCTION
TIRE VALUES
Amsoil Synthetic
EXTINGUISHER
FLAT RATE GUARANTEE
CRAWFORD TIRE SERVICE, INC.
• •
FIRE TECH
“QUALITY SERVICE THAT COMES TO YOU”
AUTO SERVICE
TFN
7/23/15
• Quality • Service • Sales • Installation • Commercial • Residential
WE BUY JUNK CARS WE BUY SCRAP METAL
407-450-2007
Call a professional with the educational and real world experience to get the job done. Contact me today for a free Consultation.
Malgoza Group Real Estate www.malgozagroup.com Toll Free 855-929-6461 Cell 407-721-4222
Apply from your Home or Office
www.celebrationfunding.com
Call: Ernie Bagley 352.223.8359 (7 Days) We make Lending EASY
CELEBRATION FUNDING, INC. 5/14/15
• Primary Residence • 2nd Home • Investment • Condo • Modular • Manufactured • Purchase/Refinance • Conventional, FHA, VA, USDA, HARP, Jumbos, Construction, Commercial
Email: ernie@celebrationfunding.com
www.celebrationfunding.com 700 Celebration Ave. Suite 208
(2nd Floor Bank of America Building) Celebration, FL 34747 All Programs Subject to Credit/Income Approval
NMLS# 1032792
TRAYWICK'S GARAGE
MLO NMLS# 906080
PEST CONTROL
GO GREEN
407-656-1817
YOUR AD HERE!
with nature’s best rodent controller, the CAT!
TFN
1045 S. Vineland Rd. •Winter Garden • New and Used Tires • Alignment • Complete Auto Repair • A/C Serv. & More
TFN
No more need for poison controls that harm the environment, people and farm animals. Join us in the Barn Cats program and help to make a difference.
For details call
407.522.2617
barncatsinfo@CareFelineTNR.org
407-656-2121
720 S. Dillard St, Winter Garden, FL 34787
7/23/15
Yazmin Malgoza MBA, Broker
WEST ORANGE TIMES
WOTimes.com
THURSDAY, MAY 21, 2015
Here's My Card
BUSINESS DIRECTORY ROOFING CONTINUED
ROOFING
9B
Your ad here! Call
TFN
Residential • Commercial • Tile • Metal UPGRADES & REPAIRS
407.614.5962
Email: keithksj@cfl.rr.com Ocoee, FL 34761
Keith Keller President CCC1325778
VIRUS & SPYWARE Winter Garden’s REMOVALPremier Roofing Company Since 1978 Serving All of West Orange County DATA & PASSWORD Fully Licensed and Insured Roof Repairs and Replacement RECOVERY 407-656-8920 WestOrangeRoofing.com WIRELESS & WIRED NETWORKING FREE ESTIMATES
Classifieds ANNOUNCEMENTS
GENERAL EMPLOYMENT
ITEMS FOR SALE (CONT.)
LIVE ON-SITE AUCTION Hiawassee - Towns County Beautiful Mountain Lots June 20th, 11 AM Seller is very motivated! JL TODD AUCTION CO. 800-241-7591 JLTODD.com GA.LIC. #316 5/21fcan
Housekeepers wanted, immediate hire. Growth opportunities. Must pass background check. 407-810-4468 or apply online www.greengeniuscleaning.com 5/21gg
Burp pads/Bibs/Blankets/Hats/Booties for dolls. New/Reasonable. Bring in your dolly. Babylady 407-731-4248. 5/28bl
407-592-4498 LOST AND FOUND
Found black and white Hemingway, male and female kittens. Approximately 6 months old and have had all shots. Looking for a good home. Please call 407-592-4509. 5/21lf MISCELLANEOUS AVIATION Grads work with JetBlue, Boeing, Delta and others- start here with hands on training for FAA certification. Financial aid if qualified. Call Aviation Institute of Maintenance 866-314-5838 5/21fcan Struggling with DRUGS or ALCOHOL? Addicted to PILLS? Talk to someone who cares. Call The Addiction Hope & Help Line for a free assessment. 855-995-3142 5/21fcan DISH TV Starting at $19.99/month (for 12 mos.) SAVE! Regular Price $34.99 Call Today and Ask About FREE SAME DAY Installation! CALL Now! 888-986-4858 5/21fcan
DRIVER TRAINEES NEEDED NOW! Become a driver for Werner Enterprises. Earn $800 per week! Local CDL Training. 1-877-214-3624 5/21fcan
ITEMS FOR SALE SAWMILLS from only $4,397.00MAKE & SAVE MONEY with your own bandmill- Cut lumber any dimension. In Stock, ready to ship! FREE Info/ DVD: www.NorwoodSawmills.com 1-800-578-1363 Ext.300N 5/21fcan
13178 W. Colonial Dr
Winter Garden
NOW PURCHASING
SCRAP
BATTERIES 407-656-3495
S.E. Dollen, LLC.
Winter Garden longest established electrical contractor serving Central FL since 1983. All Service Techs are LICENSED Journeymen and Master Electricians. For professional results and competitive rates
call 407-656-5818 EC 13001719
Eclectic collection of paintings, drawings, & a marble sculpture. Reasonably priced, must sell. 407-7799462 5/21lb
GARAGE SALE
5 ACRES, NO HOA, Great home with 4 bdrms. 3 baths, formal living/dining, family rm, kitchen with breakfast nook, split bdrm plan, inside laundry rm, covered screened large lanai, 2 car garage, huge metal building 3 roll up doors. Covered storage, and 2 storage containers. New porcelin tile, kitchen has quartz counter tops, new oven/cooktop, bathrooms updated, new plumbing 2014, new water heater 2014. Electronic front gate. Asking Only $479,000.
407-948-1326
407-948-1326 DIN
2010 Ford F150 FX4
13237 West Colonial Dr. Winter Garden • 407.614.1813
with a 8 inch lift and loaded with all options. $28995 call 407-654-5313 ThurstonAutoSales.com
3 BDRM. 2BA. SPLIT PLAN, living/great room, formal dining, rock wood burning fireplace, KITCHEN comes complete with range, refrigerator, dishwasher. Kitchen also features breakfast bar, breakfast area and pantry. FRENCH DOORS LEADING to covered screened lanai, plus sunken HOT TUB/SPA. HUGE lot, no rear neighbors. NO HOA. $210,000.
407-948-1326
407-948-1326
PAT SHARR Realty
BOATS FOR SALE
Good running driving cars from $1800 Call Billy 407-948-2723
PAT SHARR Realty
407-656-2121
AUTOS FOR SALE Enclosed aluminum cargo trailer, 4x4x8. Lock, 15" wheels, fenders, easy tow, clean title. In Ocoee. 305-2062218. 5/21jd
JUST LISTED
GEORGEOUS 3 bdrm. 2 ba. Very open floor plan, DEN/OFFICE, FORMAL DINING, LIVING/GREAT ROOM, FIREPLACE, BREAKFAST AREA, INSIDE LAUNDRY, SCREENED LANAI, SPA, SPARKLING SOLAR HEATED POOL, privacy fenced back yard... KITCHEN features, 42” beautiful WOOD cabinets, GRANITE countertops, STAINLESS STEEL appliances all STAY!!! Close to West Orange Trail, 408, 429 and Turnpike. $299,000.
Classified Ads
Submission deadline: Tuesdays @ 10:00 am
2015 Epic 25 SC Bay boat with a 300 H P Suzuki. Only 8 hours of use. Save $44985 call 407-654-5313 ThurstonAutoSales.com
This week’s Cryptoquiz answers 1) Kansas 2) West Point 3) Operation Torch 4) NATO 5) President. Dwight D. Eisenhower
APARTMENTS
This week’s Sudoku answers
2 bedroom, 1 bath - pretty & clean cottage with great view of Lake Apopka. $700/month. 407-886-4986 5/21er WINTER GARDEN - 1BR $735, 2BR $785, 3BR $975 on Lake Apopka. Water/Sewer included. 407-656-7162. 9/25tfn
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES
West Orange Times & Observer is growing. We have an opportunity for you… Flexible schedule, great compensation, benefits, commissions and more!
This week’s Crossword answers
Tykes automobile $19.95, Wagon $19.95, High chair $29.95, Easle $14.95, Riding toys $4.95 each. Babylady 407-731-4248. 5/28bl Playpen/Bassinet/Changing Table $49.95, Pink toybox $19.95, Jumperoo $19.95, Diaper bags, Gate $9.95. Babylady 407-731-4248. 5/28bl
We have an opening for the following position:
Multimedia Sales Representative 407.656.7986
PAT SHARR Realty
G
PAT SHARR Realty
BEAUTY SURROUNDS YOU!
Infant/Toddler car seats, Highchairs, Strollers, Play pens, Wagons, Bassinets, Pottys, Gates, Tykes automobiles, Toys. Babylady 407-731-4248. 5/28bl
signfacts.com
W. Hwy. 50 at Dillard
Table w/leaf and 4 chairs $ 289
Want A Career Operating Heavy Equipment? Bulldozers, Backhoes, Excavators. Hands On Training! Certifications Offered. National Average 18-22hr. Lifetime Job Placement . VA Benefits Eligible! 1-866-362-6497 5/21fcan MOLLY MAID HOME CLEANING SERVICE, no nights or holidays, company car provided, call 407-877-0184. 4/23sh
with only 5 K miles! Like new! $22985 call 407-654-5313 ThurstonAutoSales.com
AWAY FROM THE CROWDS-MOTIVATED SELLER!
*TRADITIONAL SALE*COURTLEA PARK* 5 bdrm. 4 ba. 3074 sq.ft. of living!!! FORMAL living/ dining room, family room, MASTER BDRM and 3 of the other bedrooms on the first floor. UPSTAIRS is BONUS room, bdrm and full bath. KITCHEN features 42” cabinets, GRANITE countertops, all STAINLESS STEEL APPLIANCES STAY!!! Conservation area in back, NO REAR NEIGHBORS! CUSTOM BUILT BY TAYLOR MORRISON HOMES!!! Asking only $330,000.
EN
Doors Open 2 pm Games 3 pm
171396
1701 Adair St. Ocoee
JUST LISTED!!!
2014 Honda Civic Si Coupe
REAL ESTATE
REAL ESTATE
AUTOS FOR SALE (CONT.)
LEP
BINGO
CHECK OUT OUR CLASSIFIEDS ONLINE @ WOTIMES.COM Call 407-656-2121 or email: classifieds@wotimes.com Subscribe today for $29.00 at: subscribe@wotimes.com
SA
Every Sunday
Local Air Conditioning company is looking to hire a Qualified Service Technician and an Installer. Job Responsibilities: Serves customers by installing and servicing systems and products. Min of 5 years exp with HVAC equipment in Commercial & Residential. Clean driving record, Be able to pass a drug test, Be able to pass a Background check, EPA Certified, Nate Certified (PREFERRED) All field service technicians & installer, must be able to work independently with little supervision. Field service technicians & installers must be able to manage service calls that require more time than anticipated without becoming frustrated or rushing through a job. Field Service technicians will be required to be in the On Call Rotation. They must also possess superb customer service skills, be a team player and the ability to diagnose and solve problems from nontechnical descriptions provided by their customers. Resume with references can be sent to fax (407) 5174477 or email duncansair@aol.com 5/21rd
Big Garage Sale - many household items, tools, some furniture. 1187 Meadow Finch Dr., Winter Garden. Westwood Village Mobile Home Park. Saturday only, 8AM-2PM. 5/21rp
407-656-2121
720 S. Dillard St, Winter Garden, FL 34787
Every member of our family is committed to our guiding vision: Innovate and elevate. Elevate our readers, our customers, our community and ourselves with innovative ideas, content and execution. Join our family. Send your resume to: Dwillis@wotimes.com
2015
10B
WEST ORANGE TIMES
WOTimes.com
THURSDAY, MAY 21, 2015
RAIN
WEST ORANGE
(INCHES)
WEATHER
TUES.
May 12
0.05
WED.
TEMPERATURES
May 13
0.00
Thurs., May 21 Fri., May 22 Sat., May 23 Sun., May 24 Mon., May 25 Tues., May 26 Wed., May 27
THURS. May 14
0.00
FRI.
May 15
0.05
SAT.
May 16
0.00
SUN.
May 17
0.03
MON.
May 17
0.00
MAY
HIGH 92 95 91 89 91 92 95
SUNRISE/SUNSET TIMES Thurs., May 21 Fri., May 22 Sat., May 23 Sun., May 24 Mon., May 25 Tues., May 26 Wed., May 27
FRI.
TO DATE 0.19
SUNRISE 6:33 a.m. 6:32 a.m. 6:32 a.m. 6:32 a.m. 6:31 a.m. 6:31 a.m. 6:30 a.m.
SUNSET 8:13 p.m. 8:13 p.m. 8:14 p.m. 8:15 p.m. 8:15 p.m. 8:16 p.m. 8:16 p.m.
SUN.
SAT.
LOW 74 75 73 74 74 74 75
MOON PHASES
May 3
May 11
(2014: 2.58) May 17
YEAR
TO DATE
HIGH
14.92 (2014: 15.24)
HIGH
95
HIGH
91
LOW
89
LOW
LOW
73
74
WO
The West Orange Times & 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 and city and a caption, to aqrhode@wotimes.com; put “I Love West Orange” in the subject line. Winners can pick up their prize at the Times office.
159916
75
May 25
I
Lianne Graham, of Winter Garden, submitted this photo of these beautiful horses.
CROSSWORD 100 PERCENT by Henry Quarters
CRYPTOQUIZ Each of the following cryptograms is a clue to the identity of an American general. Using the hints Y=E and B=T, decipher the clues to name the general.
1. D F O M F M 2. C Y M B L N E O B 3. N L Y J F B E N O B N J Z U 4. O F B N 5. L J Y M E K Y O B
This general served as Supreme Commander of the Allied Forces in Europe in WWII:
SUDOKU
Solve the puzzle by placing the numbers 1 through 9 in each row, column and box. May 21 (Medium, difficulty rating 0.52)
9
3
4
8
3
7
1
1
9
6
3
5
7
9
4
5
5
1
3
6
2
2
6
2
4
1
5 7
6
4
May 21 (Medium, difficulty rating 0.52)
ACROSS 1 Apportion 6 “Uh-huh” 9 Attempt, in slang 13 “Beg pardon ...” 17 Jeweler’s glass 18 First name in the “Frasier” cast 19 Athlete’s foot, e.g. 21 Shoestring 22 Cupid’s boss 23 “___ It Romantic?” 24 Badgerlike mammal 25 Capital of Rhone 26 Ballroom dance 28 Lifeguards, at times 30 Off the beaten track 32 Mamie’s man 33 Leaning Tower city 34 Collects 35 Athletic elite 41 Revealed, as an identity 42 Used a rotary phone 43 Campus cadet’s org. 44 “Cool” amount 45 “Rudolph the Red-___ Reindeer” 49 French clergyman 50 Electric guitarist’s need 51 Cool in manner 53 About 1.3 cubic yards 54 Shag rug made in Sweden 55 Recently 58 Abominable Snowman 59 Stretched out in bed 60 Cornell’s ___ Taylor Hall 62 Grander than grand 64 Museum pieces 67 French novelist Pierre 68 Forcibly splits 70 Historical times 71 Santiago padres? 75 Nerd kin 76 Ohio home of the Wright brothers 79 Automobile sounder 80 “Beetle Bailey” dog 82 Pancake toppers 84 Possesses 86 Bubbling hot 88 Comes down in buckets 90 Remove, as branches 91 Running behind 92 “101 Dalmatians” Dalmatian 93 Chip companion 94 “... and make it fast!” 96 Well-tossed pigskin 98 Even bigger 100 Alone 102 More moth-eaten 105 Scottish Gaelic 106 Brit’s bar 107 Part of a threat 108 You acquire them upon marriage 110 Drop in the ocean? 115 Painter Joan 116 Hot spot in the kitchen 118 Clickable image 120 Like oak leaves and ears
©2015 Universal Uclick
121 Capital city on the Aare river 122 Use, as plates 123 Brazil and pecan 124 “All My Children” vixen 125 Smeltery refuse 126 Treats, as to dinner 127 Ball club VIPs 128 City of sin DOWN 1 “Not to mention ...” 2 Advance money 3 Moon over Paris 4 Makes a choice 5 4 p.m. in London, often 6 “Absolutely!” 7 Banquet staples 8 Heartbeat rhythm 9 Anxiety 10 Beauty pageant topper 11 Tiny industrious insects 12 Buzzing insect 13 “Keep hope alive” 14 Garfield’s predecessor 15 Sorbonne, e.g. 16 Darns 18 “The Twelve Days of Christmas” musician
20 “King of the Hill” beer 27 Barely managed (with “out”) 29 Periwinkle 31 Babes in the woods 34 Highly motivated 35 Hebrew calendar month 36 Tripoli’s home 37 Father of Rachel and Leah 38 Brewpub offering 39 “___ la Douce” (1963 film) 40 Rescue vehicle, for short 41 Flora and fauna 44 “The Simpsons” bartender 46 Brand, in a way 47 Estrada of “CHiPs” 48 Places for lions 50 Perfectly arranged 52 Relatives of 15-Down 55 Symphony woodwind 56 Greek cheese 57 Poor imitator 61 Lionel Richie classic 63 “Correct” suffix 65 Duffer’s obstacle 66 Partner for means 69 First U.S. space station 71 Roughen, as lips 72 Bindle bearer
73 Multivitamin supplement 74 No place for a roller skate 77 Chicago airport 78 Birth-related 81 Waiter’s reward 83 Beyond stringy 85 Attachment to “one” or “your” 87 Boxing great Joe 89 Kind of 93-Across 91 Fleur-de-___ 95 Rotating or pivoting 96 Give the cold shoulder 97 Bamm-Bamm’s friend 99 “Silly” birds 100 Senator Specter and others 101 Starts the business day 102 Some burial sites 103 Disney mermaid 104 ___ cotta 105 Diplomatic agent 108 Minute amount 109 Pond residue 111 Bullfight bull 112 Bibliographical abbr. 113 Art ___ 114 Hard, yellow cheese 117 Faucet 119 Fourth-qtr. followers, sometimes