08.25.16 Windermere Observer by Orange Observer

WINDERMERE

2016 FOOTBALL PREVIEW

Observer Serving Southwest Orange County

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VOLUME 1, NO. 47

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THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016

Ashton’s angels

YOUR TOWN ARDAMAN-ASMA ENGAGEMENT

Ashton Allen was born at 23 weeks. Now, he is a healthy 2-year old boy, and his family wants to show its appreciation for the caregivers at Winnie Palmer Hospital. Story on 8

Kurt and Karen Ardaman announce the engagement of their daughter, Ansley Katherine Ardaman, to Charles Nicholas Asma, the son of Bill and Mary Beth Asma. Ansley attended Olympia High School and graduated from the University of Colorado — Boulder with a bachelor’s degree in environmental studies and a minor in economics. She is the senior underwriter for the Finance and Acquisition Department of iStorage. Nick attended Edgewater High School, Davidson College and the University of South Carolina School of Law. He is the owner of the law firm of Asma & Asma, PA. Nick and Ansley are natives of Winter Garden.

ARTS & CULTURE

Jennifer Nesslar

The Allens believe Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women and Babies helped to complete their family.

“We have devoted the rest of our lives giving back to the NICU. They were the ones that ultimately helped complete our family.”

— Amy Allen

ELECTION PRIMER

Orange County ends call for Horizon West cellular tower Since March, Horizon West residents have fought a Crown Castle USA proposal to build a 140-foot monopole communication tower near a school.

Learn more about the four candidates vying for the District 1 Orange County Commissioner seat. SEE PAGES 4-5 PRSRT STD ECRWSS US POSTAGE PAID WINTER GARDEN, FL PERMIT NO. 81

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Postal Customer

JENNIFER NESSLAR STAFF WRITER HORIZON WEST

Since March, residents surrounding the Lake Burden planned development in Horizon West have rallied against a proposal by Crown Castle USA to build a 140-foot monopole communication tower at the northeast corner of Fire Station

35, near Sunset Park Elementary School. On Aug. 13, residents got their wish. The Orange County Board of County Commissioners denied an appeal Crown Castle USA made after the Board of Zoning Adjustments denied a special SEE TOWER PAGE 6

CENFLO will celebrate independent filmmakers. PAGE 9

WINDERMERE OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016

THURSDAY, AUG. 25

FRIDAY, AUG. 26

VISTA TOASTMASTERS 7 to 8:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 25, at the Southwest Library, 7255 Della Drive, Dr. Phillips, Orlando. Club 7250 meets every Thursday. For information, visit vistatoastmasters. org.

INSPIRATIONAL WOMEN’S RETREAT 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 26, and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 27, at the First United Methodist Church of Winter Garden, 125 N. Lakeview Ave. Sponsored by the United Methodist Women. Mary Linda “M.L.” Morlock will be the guest speaker and singer, and her goal is to bring women of all ages together into a place of total trust and surrender to God. Free nursery care is available by reservation. A love offering will be taken Friday night, and the cost on Saturday is $12 and includes lunch. To register, call the church at (407) 656-1135.

HEARING SCREENING 2 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 25, at the Windermere Library, 530 Main St. Hearing loss is gradual but can be treated with amplification from hearing aids. Connect Hearing helps people stay connected by offering complimentary testing, servicing and after-care rehabilitation. Visit ConnectHearing.com or call (407) 351-9679.

FAMILY FOOD TRUCK NIGHT 5 p.m. Friday, Aug. 26, in front of Windermere Town Hall, 520 Main St. Hang out with neighbors and enjoy a variety of meal and snack trucks. (407) 876-2563.

LIVE MUSIC: SKIN DEEP 9:30 p.m. Friday, Aug. 26, and Saturday, Aug. 27, at Dexter’s of Windermere, 4757 The Grove Drive, Windermere. (407) 2587028. PLAY WITH YOUR FOOD: EDIBLE CRAFTS 3 p.m. Friday, Aug. 26, at the Windermere Library, 530 Main St. This is a three-part series in making an edible craft. (407) 835-7323.

RIBBON CUTTING: TOTAL HEALTH GUIDANCE 4 to 6 p.m. Friday, Aug. 26, at Total Health Guidance, 5401 S. Kirkman Road, Suite 760, Orlando. The Dr. Phillips Chamber of Commerce is celebrating the business’ grand opening. (407) 749-0333.

SATURDAY, AUG. 27

I SAW A DRAGON! 11 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 27, at the Windermere Library, 530 Main St. You don’t have to go all the way to Passamaquoddy to discover your very own large, green and scaly friend. Celebrate the release of the Disney film “Pete’s Dragon” with stories and crafts. Ages 6-12. (407) 835-7323. AUTHOR DISCUSSION 1 to 3 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 27, at Barnes & Noble, Plaza Venezia, 7900 W. Sand Lake Road, Orlando. Ever wonder what it takes to write a book? Authors Myrtle Brooks, Darlene Hunter, David Jimenez, Jann Martin, William D. Metcalfe, Rebecca Monaco and Penny Musco will discuss the process of creating an idea into a story. (407) 345-0900.

Roper Y, in sponsorship with Be the 1 Foundation, to honor fallen heroes Officer Robert German and Deputy Scott Pine. The keynote speaker is Bob Wieland, a Vietnam War veteran who lost both legs to a mortar mine. (541) 390-3070.

SUNDAY, AUG. 28

BBQ AND BAPTISM AT THE LAKE 12:15 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 28, at The Pines, 3409 Maguire Road, Windermere. Join the First Baptist Church Windermere for this annual lake baptism event. Food and beverages will be provided. To attend or participate in the baptism, call (407) 876-2234. ROSEN JCC TASTE OF THE J Noon to 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 28, at the Rosen JCC, 11184 S. Apopka-Vineland Road. This festival features food samples, a car exhibit, tours of the center and more. (407) 387-5330.

HONORING FALLEN OFFICERS 5 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 27, at Roper YMCA, 100 Windermere Road, Winter Garden. Join the Windermere Police Department and the

MONDAY AUG. 29

ART OF PINTEREST 6:30 p.m., Monday, Aug. 29, at the Winter Garden Library, 805 E. Plant St. Join other attendees to try out some popular craft ideas from Pinterest. Ages 18 and up. (407) 835-7323.

TUESDAY, AUG. 30

DR. PHILLIPS CHAMBER BUSINESS AFTER HOURS 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 30, at Pointe Orlando Resort, 7389 Universal Blvd., Orlando. Join the Dr. Phillips Chamber of Commerce for an evening of networking and connecting with other business men and women. Cost is $10 for guests, free for members. (407) 7490333.

Heart Failure If you experience symptoms of a heart attack, do your heart a favor and let Health Central Hospital, an Accredited Heart Failure facility, diagnose and treat you.

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YOU R CALENDAR

WINDERMERE OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016

“I lost both legs, but I didn’t lose my heart”

Courtesy photo

Bob Wieland participated in the 2011 Dream Ride with his hand cycle.

IF YOU GO BOB WIELAND WHEN: 5 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 27 WHERE: Roper Family YMCA, 100 Windermere Road, Winter Garden HOSTS: Wounded Officers Initiative, Be The 1 Foundation and the Roper YMCA DETAILS: The event will be held in honor of Windermere Police Officer Robert German and Orange County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Scott Pine. German and Pine will be honored both through Wieland’s inspirational message and by unveiling a fitnessequipment piece that will be inscribed with their names. WEBSITE: bobwieland.net

Motivational speaker Bob Wieland, who lost both legs in 1969 while serving in the Vietnam War, will be speaking in Winter Garden this weekend. MAKING THE MOST OF LIFE

DANIELLE HENDRIX STAFF WRITER

n 1969, he lost both legs to an anti-tank mine in the Vietnam War. He has since spoken at events worldwide, and next week, he’ll be speaking here in Winter Garden. Bob Wieland, a worldrenowned motivational speaker, has been asked by various sports teams, conference and meeting planners and churches for more than 45 years to share his message of hope and perseverance. On Saturday, Aug. 27, he will be at the Roper YMCA to speak at an event honoring Windermere Police Officer Robert German and Orange County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Scott Pine, who both died in the line of duty. Known as “Mr. Inspiration,” Wieland draws from his personal experiences to inspire others to think and act like a champion.

Wieland, a current California resident, was a high-school sports star at Greenfield Wisconsin High School and was set to sign with the Philadelphia Phillies after his college career. But the U.S. Army had other plans, and Wieland was sent to fight in the Vietnam War, where he lost both of his legs trying to save one of his friends. Near death and zipped up in a body bag, Wieland had originally been pronounced dead by doctors. This time, it was God who had other plans to use Wieland. “Yeah, I lost my legs, but I didn’t lose my heart,” Wieland said. “A lot of people have legs, but an awful lot of people have given up, and that’s where I come in and encourage them to keep going for it.” From there, Wieland was adjusting to his new life. His career as a motivational speaker indirectly began with the bench press. A former four-time world record-holder in the bench press, he had a best lift of 507 pounds. “When I broke the world record

in the 1977 bench press and got disqualified for not wearing shoes, the L.A. Times did a huge story and many people read the story,” he said. “The next day I went to my mailbox, and there must have been 100 messages that were asking me to come speak. It lead into a career of speaking anywhere, up to 50,000 people at a time.” He has since spoken to audiences worldwide as a sports speaker, team builder, inspirational Christian speaker and more at events ranging from camps and churches to conferences and fundraising events. And his story gets even better. Between 1982 and 1986, Wieland walked across America on his arms over three years, eight months and six days. After he was banned from bench-press competition, Wieland had prayed about what to do next. In 1981 and 1982, when Los Angeles was gearing up to host the 1984 Olympic Games, one of his friends invited him to come to a facility in Pasadena that had one of the first artificial tracks in the country. “I jumped out of the wheelchair and decided to take a lap around the track on my arms, and long story short, one lap became two and that became four, and I started training for 18 months,” he said. In 1982, to raise money for Vietnam War veterans, he began his walk across the country on his hands, beginning in L.A. and ending in Washington, D.C., with a visit to President Ronald Reagan. His top speed was 11 miles covered per day.

“This is what God called me to do and I’ve been doing it for a long, long time. Doors open up all over the world for me. God’s put it all together, I’m just the vessel. Everybody needs inspiration.”

TOO SOON TO QUIT

Despite the challenges he has faced, he is making the most out of the hand he’s been dealt. His motto serves as the backbone of his motivational speeches: “It’s too soon to quit.” In fact, his determination and zest for life earned him the honor of being one of People Magazine’s “Six Most Amazing Americans” in 1994. He also was named the Most Courageous Man in America and presented with the National Award for Courage in 1995 by the National Football League Player Association in conjunction with the Jim Thorpe Foundation, among other accolades. “Thousands of people just said, ‘That’s the most overwhelming speech we’ve ever heard in our entire life,’” he said of people’s reactions to his story. “It’s real — I don’t have to make up anything. In today’s society, most everything is make-believe, but my story is all true, and people are overwhelmed. Usually when people listen, they start crying, so you know you’re making an impact. And I’m not (just) talking about the women crying, I’m talking about the men. You can hear a pin drop.” On Saturday, he will be speaking about striving for success and unleashing the champion within. He noted that everyone has great potential, but if they don’t do anything with that potential nothing happens. “(I’m most looking forward to) honoring these fallen heroes of the police department, recognizing their families and the fact that the community is recognizing the sacrifice they’ve made,” he said. “That’s why I usually share the Gospel of John 15:13 — ‘Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.’ “This is what God called me to do, and I’ve been doing it for a long, long time,” he said. “Doors open up all over the world for me. God’s put it all together, I’m just the vessel. Everybody needs inspiration.” Contact Danielle Hendrix at dhendrix@orangeobserver.com.

— Bob Wieland

W.O.P.A. WEST ORANGE POLITICAL ALLIANCE , I NC:

A non-partisan political committee, the political action arm of the West Orange Chamber of Commerce, formed to represent the best interests of West Orange County REMINDS YOU TO:

Vote on Tuesday, August 30th Our endorsed candidates ORANGE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOL BOARD Pam Gould – District 4 Christine Moore – District 7

FLORIDA NINTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT COURT Jeff Ashton – State Attorney Luis Calderon – Group 4 Dan Traver – Group 14

FLORIDA SENATE

Randolph Bracy – District 11

FLORIDA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Kamia Brown - District 45 Bruce Antone – District 46

Paid political advertisement by the West Orange Political Alliance, Inc. For information call 407-656-1304

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ORANGE COUNTY

Betsy VanderLey - District 1 Pete Clarke - District 3 Ted Edwards – District 5 Phil Diamond – Comptroller Eric DuBois - Judge Group 1 Tom Young – Judge Group 4 Mark Anthony Arias – Judge Group 5

2016 ELECTION PRIMER

WINDERMERE OBSERVER

NUREN HAIDER

AGE: 31 CITY OF RESIDENCE: Dr. Phillips FAMILY: Husband, Dr. Saif Haque; three children EXPERIENCE: Attorney; daughter of immigrants who became small-business owners

DR. USHA JAIN AGE: 65 CITY OF RESIDENCE: Orlando FAMILY: Husband, Manohar; two daughters EXPERIENCE: Trauma physician at Orlando Regional Medical Center from 1979 to 1985; 31 years as a physician in West Orange

ROBERT “BOBBY” OLSZEWSKI

AGE: 38 CITY OF RESIDENCE: Winter Garden FAMILY: Wife, Allison (West); expecting baby daughter, Reagan Lynne EXPERIENCE: Winter Garden City Commissioner; chair, Orange County Community Action Board; vicechair, MetroPlan Orlando Municipal Advisory Committee

BETSY VANDERLEY

AGE: 57 CITY OF RESIDENCE: Oakland FAMILY: Husband, Todd; three grown children; two grandchildren EXPERIENCE: President, The Continuum Collaborative LLC; background in construction, development and government; chairman of Orange County Planning and Zoning; Affordable Housing Board

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016

Orange County Commission District 1 ON BALANCING GROWTH: HAIDER: Smart growth is growth that supports the local businesses we have here already in our community and growth that supports the residents who are already living in our community. As a community, we need to put an end to the concept of growth for growth’s sake and the myth that this boosts our economy. Development is inevitable, people are moving here every day, but I believe we should be using our current local builders and skilled laborers in our development. JAIN: Smart growth is where you balance the growth, which helps the growth and economy — but not at the expense of the in convenience to the community by having traffic jams. OLSZEWSKI: We have an outstanding record in Winter Garden where our city has become the envy of the state — and even throughout the country — because of our community development efforts with a sense of place and purpose for our citizens. Winter Garden residents have enjoyed the highest property value growth increase in Orange County over the past two years and that is achieved with planned, smart and balanced growth. As an Orange County Commissioner, I will ensure that development works proactively with residents in the community, much like we have done in Winter Garden where as a commission, 99% of our votes have been unanimous because of the effort that goes into ensuring the projects will be beneficial to residents prior to voting on them. … Additionally, part of balanced growth is making sure that we have parks and green space with interconnected trails, giving us a more walkable, connected and inclusive community. VANDERLEY: To grow responsibly, we have to anticipate capacity on the roads, schools, parks and infrastructure. That may sound easy, but it takes coordination with Orange County Public Schools, the county staff and the state, as well as water management districts and local municipalities. It will take a person with experience and good working relationships with all of those entities to help us navigate our way forward. Smart growth is taking into consideration the essential elements that give Orange County its unique character. That means we need to protect our rural areas, our lakes and our green spaces, and we need to make sure we develop in a way that enhances our property values and our way of life.

WINDERMERE

Observer “If we are to build a better world, we must remember that the guiding principle is this — a policy of freedom for the individual is the only truly progressive policy.” Friedrich Hayek “Road to Serfdom,” 1944

n the weeks before the 2016 primary and general elections, the West Orange Times & Observer will examine the candidates for several

races. This week, we feature candidates for Orange County Commission District 1, the seat being vacated by outgoing Commissioner S. Scott Boyd. Candidates include Nuren Haider, Dr. Usha Jain, Robert “Bobby” Olszewski and Betsy VanderLey. Voters will make their selections at the primary election, Aug. 30.

Publisher / Dawn Willis, dwillis@OrangeObserver.com Executive Editor / Michael Eng, meng@OrangeObserver.com Design Editor / Jessica Eng, jeng@OrangeObserver.com Community Editor / Amy Quesinberry Rhode, aqrhode@OrangeObserver.com Senior Sports Editor / Steven Ryzewski, sryzewski@OrangeObserver.com Staff Writers Gabby Baquero, gbaquero@Orange Observer.com Danielle Hendrix, dhendrix@OrangeObserver.com

ON OUTGOING COMMISSIONER S. SCOTT BOYD’S PERFORMANCE. ASSIGN A LETTER GRADE (A-F): HAIDER: D+. Commissioner Boyd has done a good job of working with leaders and organizations to create community improvements such as the Magic Gym in Winter Garden. However, the commissioner has done a lot to stand in the way of the will of the people. The commissioner was found guilty of destruction of public records during his administration. He has advocated for measures that would make it more difficult for the people to petition the government. JAIN: C or D. Scott Boyd did not support the small businesses and also did not do anything for the disadvantaged people. OLSZEWSKI: C. In his first term, Commissioner Boyd performed admirably. Unfortunately, (during) the vast majority of his second term, he was too focused on anointing his successor as well as setting himself up to become Orange County property appraiser before he dropped out to now run for Orange County mayor. Additionally, too many municipalities and unincorporated areas did not get the attention they deserved because of his emphasis on an area of our district with all of the well-funded development interests. VANDERLEY: A-. I believe Commissioner Boyd has done a great job under challenging circumstances. When he was first elected, our economy was in a recession. Homes were being taken back by financial institutions and then sitting empty. They were not always secured and were not being maintained. Commissioner Boyd worked to turn that around and help neighborhoods and HOAs respond to those issues. Since that time, we have seen a development boom. He has worked tirelessly to hold far more public meetings than the law requires so that as we grow, we have a voice in what that growth looks like. He has also assembled thousands of email addresses so he can push out all of the information about what is happening in District 1 to interested citizens, giving everyone a chance to have a voice in the process.

ON WHAT WOULD STAY THE SAME UNDER YOUR LEADERSHIP: HAIDER: Orange County has a signature aesthetic that makes it one of the most beautiful places of earth to visit and live. … We must preserve the environment that makes our home unique. While there are still issues, SunRail is putting us on the right track to making our transportation system efficient and effective. Most importantly, the best thing about Orange County is the diversity of our fellow residents who make up a melting pot of races, genders, religions, orientations and abilities. … This seat in Orange County is not just mine, it is meaningful to all of us. JAIN: None.

OLSZEWSKI: The Orange County District 1 boundaries are not changing, as it will be the same geographic district that we have seen for the last eight years. I look forward to putting residents and community first as we keep our community safe and maintain the unique charm and feel of our neighborhoods. VANDERLEY: I would continue the practice of multiple public meetings to ensure that the community has a voice in our growth. I would continue to make sure we use email to regularly communicate with citizens. I would continue to help with providing backpacks for school kids. I would also continue to push for traffic solutions, particularly on Sand Lake Road.

ONLINE For complete, unedited responses from the candidates to these and other questions, visit OrangeObserver.com

Jennifer Nesslar, jnesslar@OrangeObserver.com Advertising Executives Ryan Cater, rcater@OrangeObserver.com Michelle Gentry, mgentry@OrangeObserver. com Cyndi Gustafson, advertising@Orange Observer.com Creative Services Andrés Tam, atam@OrangeObserver.com Tony Trotti, ttrotti@OrangeObserver.com Customer Service Representatives Allison Brunelle, abrunelle@OrangeObserver.com Sarah Felt, sfelt@OrangeObserver.com

The Windermere Observer is published once weekly, on Thursdays. It provides subscription home delivery. The Windermere Observer also can be found in commercial locations and at our office, 720 S. Dillard St., Winter Garden. If you wish to subscribe to, visit our website, OrangeObserver.com, call (407) 656-2121 or visit our office, 720 S. Dillard St., Winter Garden.

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

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

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

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OrangeObserver.com

Almost 25 years ago, I owned a small construction company that provided pollution clean-up services on contaminated sites. When the DEP pulled the funding on the program to revamp it, we were unable to react quickly enough to keep our doors open. As we worked through paying off all of our vendors, the State Department of Revenue placed liens on my property for sales tax. One of those liens, one was based on just $0.01 of principal with more than $1,000 in penalties and fees. Another was for $30 with more than $5,000 in penalties and fees. I fought those for two years. Ultimately, I paid the tax owed, but the penalties and fees were waived. This experience taught me a few valuable lessons, not the least of which was that government does not create jobs, but it sure can kill them. OLSZEWSKI ON ABSENCES FROM THE METROPLAN MUNICIPAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE:

The MetroPlan Municipal Advisory Committee is just that — an advisory committee that does not have any actionable voting authority or power. In fact, the last MAC meeting that I attended, I served as the MAC’s vice chair. When I learned that an elected official and fellow MAC member was using their vote on this committee to benefit their personal paycheck and benefit their clients, I was appalled. I brought this to the attention of MetroPlan employee and MAC staff liaison Virginia Whittington, and next, I had a discussion with MetroPlan Executive Director Harry Barley. I can only assume that Mr. Barley discussed this directly with MetroPlan board chair and Orange County District 1 Commissioner Scott Boyd. (Because) the ethical voting concerns I had with the MAC fell on deaf ears, I contacted Winter Garden Mayor John Rees and City Manager Mike Bollhoefer and informed them that I could no longer attend MAC because of this breaching the public’s trust, and they agreed. When I am elected, we will stop the cronyism and corruption ... in Orange County.

ON JOB CREATION:

HAIDER: Focus on infrastructure. We need to build new bike paths and sidewalks. The county’s plan to become ADA compliant for streets, sidewalks, crosswalks, etc., is going to take 20 years to manifest. This is unacceptable. Focusing on infrastructure will make our community safer, more inclusive and will create jobs for skilled labor. These improvements also increase property values and boost the economy for small-business owners. JAIN: Small businesses should have support, and politicians need to stop (doing) favors for their contributors. The big companies who contribute for their campaigns will get the favors sooner or later. Small businesses can employ people if they receive the equitable treatment from the government, such as zoning, code enforcement, etc. OLSZEWSKI: It is imperative that we focus on creating a community that can attract businesses and jobs to West Orange County. … By working proactively with large employers, we expand our opportunities for increased jobs and new small businesses. Also … I will work proactively with the University of Central Florida, Valencia College and Orange County Public Schools to ensure educational opportunities are available right here in our community so our residents have access to highlyskilled training and increased opportunities for our skilled workforce. VANDERLEY: District 1 is fortunate to have a several major economic drivers in our area for tourism. I am grateful for that, but we must also diversify our economy so we can better withstand future economic storms. As a business development consultant, I am tasked with identifying growth opportunities for my clients. I often work with economic developers to look for trends, companies that may be looking at relocating and more. I would work with the local EDC to help identify opportunities and use my experience and skills to meet with potential businesses we can recruit, encouraging them to relocate to District 1.

ON COMMUNICATION BETWEEN THE COUNTY COMMISSION AND THE ORANGE COUNTY SCHOOL BOARD: HAIDER: As a mother of school-age children, serving families is a top priority for me. The main overlap in responsibility between the Board of County Commissioners and the Orange County School Board is new school placement. Both boards and the community need to come together for a series of conversations on the topic. I will work to schedule and promote those meetings. JAIN: Working with the School Board would be important. The funding should be distributed fairly according to the growth.

ON PUBLIC SAFETY: HAIDER: We need to reevaluate pay and benefits for our first-responders. The brave men and women who put their lives on the line in our Sheriff’s Office and our Fire Rescue should be receiving the top training and top pay for what they do. JAIN: Police need to be supported in their work, and the criminals should be taken to the jail rather than worrying about the civil-rights suit. Safety has been a major issue lately. There are break-ins in Bay Hill, Isleworth etc. Three cars were broken in one night, including mine in Isleworth. OLSZEWSKI: The most fundamental role for a local government is to protect the security of the communities it serves. Having a sound and effective Sheriff’s Office and fire departments benefit all communities to provide opportunities that can lead to success for our Orange County residents, guests and businesses. VANDERLEY: We need to ensure that our firstresponders are compensated with a competitive salary/ benefits package. We must ensure they have the tools that they need to do their jobs well. ... We need to look not only at our historical crime stats when making personnel allocation decisions, but we must also look forward, using residential permits pulled as well so we can make a quality decision as to staffing requirements.

OLSZEWSKI: I hear daily the issues that face our children as we need to ensure that we are working together proactively doing what is best for our children. I had a front-row seat when my constituents at West Orange High had their children eat lunch at 10:30 a.m. because of an overcrowded school because elected officials were playing both sides of the issue regarding the relief high school. I will work proactively with OCPS and Orange County staff to ensure that we get schools out of the ground faster while maintaining new schools that share the unique charm and feel of our neighborhoods.

VANDERLEY: I will work with our School Board to make sure they get the tools they need to get the necessary schools built. Right now, the school-siting ordinances don’t necessarily allow schools to locate at the best locations; I will work with them to make the changes needed. As evidence that I plan to work closely with our School Board, I will share with you that while on the campaign trail I have already worked with School Board Member Pam Gould to get a bus stop moved to a safer location for one community. I am not waiting to be elected to office to begin making a difference in our community; I have been doing that for years.

ON WHAT WOULD CHANGE UNDER YOUR LEADERSHIP: HAIDER: We would focus on transparency, efficiency and inclusion. Our No. 1 priority always needs to be the will of the constituency. We were elected by the people. We do this by creating a more inclusive and accessible government that hears the voice of and represents the voice of every resident. If I am elected, that sends a clear message that the will of the people is the need to have smart growth and not growth for growth’s sake. JAIN: I would ... support the small businesses and will make sure they get fair and equitable treatment. ... I know of businesses that were closed because of unfairness of the government. OLSZEWSKI: I will work proactively with communities and homeowners associations to ensure we are working through issues before they are problems. I would not transmit projects just because a developer has asked me to and then have multiple community meetings pretending to get community input when the deal is already done. VANDERLEY: I want to make sure we address school-siting issues to allow OCPS to have more options for school locations.

ON THE GREATEST PROBLEM IN WEST ORANGE COUNTY: HAIDER: Orange County residents need to feel safe. This means we need to pay our first-responders what they deserve, guaranteeing we attract and keep the best and brightest police and fire rescue. To afford this without excessively raising taxes, we need to make our public transportation system effective and efficient. JAIN: Congestion and traffic jams. OLSZEWSKI: Crime, congestion and cronyism. Orange County must ensure that we will continue to work together with our sheriff and fire departments and all municipalities ... to ensure the safety of our family and property. … Safety also means keeping our commutes to and from our homes safe by being proactive rather than reactive. … I will do everything in my power to stop the cronyism and corruption by ... providing a more transparent local government. VANDERLEY: Ensuring that as we grow we don’t lose our strong sense of community and belonging. When you ask people from other parts of the county where they are from, they often say “Orlando,” whether they are in the city limits proper or in surrounding communities. When you ask residents in District 1, they are frequently more specific, saying “Winter Garden” or “Windermere” or “Oakland” or “Ocoee.” That strong sense of belonging translates into better schools, higher property values and lower crime.

Vote August 30 Elect:

Vice Chairman Orange County Republican REC

WENDY WEST STATE COMMITTEEWOMAN Endorsed by Congressman Dan Webster • State Representative Eric Eisnaugle • O.C. Commissioner Scott Boyd Paid Political Advertisement Paid and Approved by Wendy West, Republican for State Committeewoman

Linda O’Keefe, Wendy West, Founders of West Orange Republican Women Federated or use (WORWF) and Commissioner Scott Boyd

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VANDERLEY ON HER TAX HISTORY:

THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016

2016 ELECTION PRIMER

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those 40- to 60-foot pine trees,” she said. “It just looked silly.” Many of the concerned residents were also concerned about the cell tower’s proximity to Sunset Park Elementary School and potential damaging effects the radiation from a cell tower could pose. However, because of the lack of conclusive evidence of the damaging effects of cell towers, residents could not argue against the cell tower for those reasons. Instead, they had to use arguments surrounding the aesthetics of the tower, considering its proximity to 34 homes in the area. Contact Jennifer Nesslar at jnesslar@orangeobserver.com.

Are you looking to adopt an affectionate dog? Meet Thor! Thor (ID No. A356683) is a 2-year-old dog who was surrendered because his owner could no longer care for him. He is a very good boy, and he loves attention and being petted. His favorite thing to do is to hang out with you! He is mellow and loving. The Summer Splash adoption promotion returns for August. After selecting the perfect pet, adopters will be able to draw an adoption fee for $5, $10 or $15. The adoption fee includes sterilization, vaccinations and a microchip.

Critter Corner showcases local animals available for adoption. To participate, contact Staff Writer Jennifer Nesslar, jnesslar@orangeobserver.com.

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exception for the cell tower. “I’m relieved,” said Tory Parish, a resident of the Lakes of Windermere. “I totally feel like they made the right decision. … I feel like it was easy to see what was clearly right and wrong in the situation. I’m just glad that it’s behind us for now.” The decision follows the Orange County Board of Zoning Adjustment’s denial in May. Now Crown Castle USA can choose to file a lawsuit, which is unlikely, county staff said. “We are disappointed with the ruling,” said Kelly Rogers, external affairs manager at Crown Castle “Crown Castle remains dedicated to working with Orange County to enable the necessary

mobile connection that the community requires to conduct business, keep in touch and stay safe.” Crown Castle USA designed the monopole tower to blend in with the trees nearby, creating the illusion of a pine tree. But the residents still thought the monopole would stand out and not fit in with the rest of the community. “If you’re looking at the plaza, I think the peak of the church that’s across the street is 35 feet,” said Jane Dunkelberger, a nearby resident. Parish took some photos and photoshopped a tower in, to see how would look around the surrounding community. “When you do that, you can see how silly it would look, a cartoonlike 140-foot-tall pine tree next to

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THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016

Gotha campground to host peace camp

reading of the biblical Scriptures. “I suspect that most of the people in attendance will be coming from the background of understanding the importance of being a peacemaker, being followers of Christ who was the Prince of Peace,” she said. Camp registration is ongoing and activities include the following: a variety show, swimming, worship, campfire, morning watch, table games, puzzles, music, active games, good food, free time and a quiet walk. Contact Danielle Hendrix at dhendrix@orangeobserver.com.

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Camp Ithiel, 2037 Hempel Ave., Gotha DETAILS: Registration for the Family Peace Camp is ongoing. Adult registration is $25, and meals are $2 each. Lodging is available in dorms at the camp for an additional fee, and scholarships are available for the first 12 non-Brethren who register. CONTACT: Phil Lersch, (727) 544-2911 or Phil Lersch@verizon.net. WEBSITE: brethren.org

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In a world where this year can best be summed up by the words “Pray for ___,” a local camp program is focusing on one thing: Peace. The 10th annual Family Peace Camp — presented by the Action for Peace team of the Atlantic Southeast District of the Church of the Brethren — takes place at Camp Ithiel in Gotha from Sept. 2 to 4. With a focus on pathways to inner peace, the camp provides an opportunity for families to get away for the weekend, spend time together and be immersed in a peaceful environment. Berwyn Oltman, a retired pastor who serves on the Action for Peace team, said the denomination stems from Historic Peace Church. According to the official Church of the Brethren website, “Brethren have considered participation in war to be unacceptable for Christians and have based this understanding on the teachings of Jesus and on other New Testament texts.” “International peace and reconciliation is important to us,” Oltman said. “There (is much) violence in our world and all the international disputes and conflict. We think there are better solutions to solve problems between groups and nations. Each year, we choose a theme related to that, we host people of different denominations, and we

GOTHA

have activities for all ages — children, young people and adults.” This year, however, the focus is more on inner peace. Pastor Belita Mitchell, the lead pastor at Harrisburg First Church of the Brethren in Pennsylvania, is this year’s camp resource leader. Mitchell is involved in peace and justice work, as well as gun violence prevention, and speaks on behalf of Heeding God’s Call, a ministry against gun violence. A former moderator of the Church of the Brethren Annual Conference, Mitchell will speak to campers about spiritual qualities that help people deal with violence and how to respond to conflict situations by acts of kindness, love and reconciliation. “For the past two years the focus has been not so much on peace and justice but on the spiritual undergirding for people of peace,” Mitchell said. “I’m combining the two primary foci of my work in my ministry: Spiritual development and deepening faith, and peace and justice. “Since the camp has chosen to go in the direction of inner peace, our sessions will be geared primarily on pathways to inner peace,” she said. “I believe there are several different ways to achieve inner peace. A lot of our time together will be spent exploring that spiritual nature of inner peace.” Mitchell hopes campers will learn from each other through active dialogue and through

WINTER GARDEN

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DANIELLE HENDRIX

FAMILY PEACE CAMP

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The Church of the Brethren’s Action for Peace team is hosting its 10th annual Family Peace Camp at Camp Ithiel in Gotha.

WINDERMERE OBSERVER

IF YOU GO ICE CREAM AND MIRACLES WHEN: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 27 WHERE: Allen’s Creamery & CoffeeHouse, 523 Main St., Windermere DETAILS: Come together with the community to support a fundraising event for Winnie Palmer Hospital fow Women and Babies. Tour the NICU transport truck and meet members of the NICU team, some of whom cared for Ashton. The Windermere Police Department will also give tours of patrol cars, and Panache Events will do face painting. Participate in a raffle, enjoy some food, and of course, ice cream will be available for purchase.

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016

Living miracle JENNIFER NESSLAR STAFF WRITER WINDERMERE

Two-year-old Ashton Allen giggles loudly as his father Matthew Allen spins him around and around in a dark swivel chair at The Allen Real Estate Team office in downtown Windermere. He’s a boy who loves giving kisses and eating ice cream at Allen’s Creamery & CoffeeHouse, where his father is co-owner. “Ashton is extremely social,” said his mother, Amy Allen. “He loves being around people; he loves interacting. He is the center of our family. … He’s such a loving boy but loves entertaining. He loves to be the center of attention.” When you look at Ashton, you might not realize that when was born on Oct. 30, 2013, he was the smallest surviving baby ever at Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women and Babies. He had a 17% chance of being alive. And Ashton is still too young to know that he has a twin brother, Brandon, who died before they could meet outside the womb. THE HARD JOURNEY TO FAMILY

Before Ashton and Brandon were born, the Allens had five miscarriages. “It was completely heartbreaking, but we did not want to give up,” Amy said. They didn’t. In 2013, Amy became pregnant with Ashton and Brandon. But the boys came early.

NICU MOBILE UNITS

The family calls his nurses and therapists “Ashton’s Angels,” and credits his doctor, Gregor Alexander, for much of his success. “We have devoted the rest of our lives giving back to the NICU,” Amy said. “They were the ones that ultimately helped complete our family.” CELEBRATING BRANDON

Courtesy photo

The Winnie Palmer Hospital Mobile NICU units move premature and critically ill babies from hospitals across 21 counties to Winnie Palmer Hospital’s Alexander Center for Neonatology. Each unit has a heartlung bypass machine and three incubators. The hospital currently has two units.

Brandon was born five days before Ashton and was too young for survival. Doctors put Brandon’s placenta back inside of Amy. “The rest was up to God, Ashton, my body,” she said. “There was no extra medicine put into place. I was in labor for five days with Ashton. Every day counted.” It was Oct. 30, 2013 — Amy’s 43rd birthday. Two years prior, she had a miscarriage on the same day. Ashton was born at 23 weeks, and he weighed 1 pound, 2 ounces. He was immediately intubated

and spent 126 days in the NICU. For seven weeks, his breathing was aided by a breathing tube, but he never had an infection, nor did he ever need to have a surgery. He never had a brain bleed, which doctors considered miraculous. He learned to eat on the outside of the womb. Doctors called him a “rock star.” “He’s doing wonderfully,” Matthew said. “He’s a happy, healthy boy, and we owe a lot to Winnie Palmer Hospital, especially the Alexander neonatal intensive care unit.”

For Mother’s Day, Matthew surprised Amy with a butterfly garden in their backyard. They called it “Brandon’s Butterfly Garden.” The garden is full of caterpillars and butterflies, and the family looks at it as a celebration of Brandon. “Brandon’s life probably saved both of ours on some level,” Amy said. “I just believe that somewhere along the line, with him coming early the way that he did, he just allowed Ashton’s sack to stay put.” Ashton’s full name is Ashton Brandon Allen. A video of Ashton’s 126 days in the NICU details every step along the way. At the end of the video, the Allen family drives away from the hospital, baby Ashton in tow. As the camera pans back to the hospital, a shot of light shines at the top of the hospital’s windows. After watching the video, the family realized just who that light was. Brandon. Contact Jennifer Nesslar at jnesslar@orangeobserver.com.

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THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016

ARTS + CULTURE LOCAL SPOTLIGHT

“HAIMA” FILMMAKER: Colin Harris SHOWTIME: 7:35 to 10 p.m. Friday, Sept. 2, Theater 1 SYNOPSIS: After an attack set up by a former lover, a woman awakens to find she has amnesia. CATEGORY: Feature

“MAFIOSA” FILMMAKER: Veronica Russo SYNOPSIS: A woman seeks to avenge the death of her parents. SHOWTIME: 8:15 to 9:45 p.m. Friday, Sept. 2, Theater 2; 1:45 to 3:30 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 4, Theater 1 CATEGORY: Feature

“WE ANSWERED THE CALL” FILMMAKER: Scott Holmgren SHOWTIMES: 10 to 11:20 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 3, Theater 3 as part of a military double feature; 4:05 to 4:35 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 4, Theater 3 SYNOPSIS: The true story of Jim Wilhite, a 35-year veteran sent to start a military school in Afghanistan. CATEGORY: Documentary

“MANIFEST: DESTINY” FILMMAKERS: TL Westgate and Dale Metz SYNOPSIS: A brother and sister trek across the country with a mysterious girl. SHOWTIMES: 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 3, Theater 3 with select Florida shorts; 12:10 to 1:55 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 4, Theater 3 with select Florida shorts CATEGORY: Short

“THE GROVE” FILMMAKER: Sonny Dyon SYNOPSIS: A Realtor delivering foreclosure papers to a home among orange groves runs into trouble. SHOWTIMES: 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 3, Theater 3 with select Florida shorts; 12:10 to 1:55 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 4, Theater 3 with select Florida shorts CATEGORY: Short

“RESOLUTION” FILMMAKER: TL Westgate SYNOPSIS: On New Year’s Eve, old anxieties return SHOWTIMES: 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 3, Theater 3 with select Florida shorts; 12:10 to 1:55 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 4, Theater 3 with select Florida shorts CATEGORY: Short

Courtesy photos

“The Grove,” one of many films at this year’s Central Florida Film Festival, was filmed in Clermont.

JENNIFER NESSLAR STAFF WRITER

hen Sonny Dyon was living in

Clermont, inspiration struck during a late-night walk with his dogs. During the walk, he looked behind his neighborhood to see a row of orange groves. The scene burned in his mind. “It was creepy as hell,” Dyon said. “I was like, ‘Man, I would not want to

ACTIONORIENTED Independent films from across the world will be featured at the 11th annual Central Florida Film Festival.

be stuck in an orange grove at night. That’s terrifying.’” SEE PAGE 10

SEE FILMMAKER PROFILES ON PAGE 10

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016

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TL WESTGATE Ever since his high-school days of “making very bad films,” TL Westgate has loved filmmaking — and his skills have greatly improved, too. Westgate, an Altamonte Springs resident who works in Winter Garden, has two films in this year’s Central Florida Film Festival — “Manifest: Destiny” and “Resolution.” He worked on “Manifest: Destiny” in tandem with another local filmmaker, Dale Metz. It is a short film that tells the story of a brother and sister traveling across the country with a “mysterious girl” in tow. Westgate dabbles in a variety of genres, but comedy is one of his favorites to do. He comes up with one joke or gag, and then builds the rest of the film to build up to that moment. He prefers producing short films to longer features. “When they’re good, they’re great, but when they’re bad, at

least they’re short,” Westgate said with a laugh. COLIN HARRIS Colin Harris’ first feature-length film is darker than many other filmmakers’ firsts. The movie, “Haima,” tells a story of a woman who, while searching for answers about her past, is brutally attacked by a man connected to an ex-lover. She must elude her attackers before they can finish her off. “The reason why I decided to do this type of movie is because a lot of people, when they do their first film, try to do something more inspirational or uplifting,” Harris said. “I wanted to make sure, since I’m putting all this work into it, that I’m making a film for me. So I try to do a film that is in line with the type of movies that I like. So pretty much, if nobody else likes it, I would.” Harris, an Orlando resident, leads a busy life as a husband, filmmaker, full-time employee with the Federal Aviation Administration and instructor of cinematic studies at Central Florida Institute of Technology. VERONICA RUSSO Veronica Russo didn’t go easy on her first feature-length film. Russo, an Orlando resident, produced “Mafiosa,” which follows the story of a girl whose parents have been murdered. As she uncovers the truth, she finds a link to an organized crime family. She enlists the help of her friends to seek revenge. At the Hollywood Reel Independent Film Festival, “Mafiosa” won Best Action Film. The film went all out on the action and effects. “With the gunplay, we had to have off-duty police officers on set, we had to have a pyrotechnics company come out, especially when using the guns,” Russo said. “There were a lot of professionals on set making sure everything was done correctly.”

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JOHN ASHTON In high school, John Ashton was a sports guy and a “big jock” when a teacher asked him to try out for the musical “Oklahoma!” Ashton said yes. He took grief from his football buddies, but he was cast as Jud Fry. The experience made him want to pursue acting. Ultimately, he followed though. Ashton is known for his roles in “Beverly Hills Cop” and “Midnight Run,” and you can meet him at the Central Florida Film Festival. Following a showing of “Beverly Hills Cop,” Ashton and co-star Lisa Eilbacher will participate in a Q&A session with the audience. Although Ashton participated in famous movies and plays during his acting career, he still supports independent filmmakers, even performing in indie films from time to time. “Independent filmmakers are the filmmakers of the future,” he said.

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FILMMAKER PROFILES

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CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9

He began to speak with the team of people with which he made films in the past. He came up with “The Grove,” a short film about a Realtor who submits foreclosure papers to a family who lives in the middle of an orange grove and ends up at the wrong house, where “Texas Chainsaw-Massacre”-like events ensue. “The Grove” plays at the 11th annual Central Florida Film Festival, held in Ocoee. At last year’s CENFLO, Dyon’s film “Clarity” won the Audience Choice Award — the first short film in the history of CENFLO to do so. Dyon, who lived in Clermont for 10 years, recently moved to Hollywood to be closer to his sons and further his filmmaking career. “The Grove” was filmed in Clermont. He is an entrepreneur and filmmaker with QiCo Films. He is currently working on an animated series called “Relatively Super,” which features actors such as Michael Dorn, Kevin Conroy and Mark Hamill.

ELEVEN YEARS STRONG

The Central Florida Film Festival, which takes place Sept. 2 to 4, is celebrating its 11th anniversary. The event was started by Bob Cook at the Osceola Center for the Arts in 2005, moving to West Orange Cinema in Ocoee a few years later. This year, 70 films were accepted to the event, with more than 22 films produced by local directors. Cook, who has been a filmmaker for more than 30 years, plans Q&A sessions with some film directors, as well as some well-known actors. Some independent movies are

THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016

CALL FOR SPONSORS IF YOU GO Here are two special events at this year’s festival: BEVERLY HILLS COP MOVIE DATE NIGHT WHEN: 7:35 to 10 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 3 COST: $20 for two admissions; showing of Beverly Hills Cop; meet and greet with John Ashton and Lisa Eilbacher, Beverly Hills Cop actors; medium popcorn; two 16-ounce soft drinks FAMILY-FRIENDLY “OLD FASHIONED” SATURDAY MATINEE WHEN: 11:45 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 3 COST: $20 for two admissions; Warner Brother Cartoons; showing of the western “Big Jake;” meet and greet with Chris Mitchum, son of actor Robert Mitchum; two small popcorns; two 16-ounce soft drinks; showing of the family-friendly movie “Spare Parts.”

not family-friendly. However, families who wish to enjoy the festival can attend the “Old Fashioned” Saturday Matinee, which features Warner Brother Cartoons, a showing of the Western “Big Jake,” a meet-and-greet with Chris Mitchum, son of actor Robert Mitchum, and a showing of a newer film “Spare Parts.” For the full schedule with descriptions, visit centralfloridafilmfestival.com/itineraryFRIDAY.html

OCT. 7 th -9 th A FREE 3-DAY OUTDOOR & INDOOR MUSIC FESTIVAL ON PLANT ST. IN HISTORIC DOWNTOWN WINTER GARDEN FEATURING OVER 30 DIFFERENT MUSICAL GROUPS & PERFORMERS

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