10.19.17 West Orange Times & Observer by Orange Observer

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

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YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD. VOLUME 84, NO. 42

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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2017

Making a statement

West Orange High shocked Apopka with a signature win Oct. 13. PAGE 21.

LIVE, WORK, PLAY:

It’s all happening in Hamlin. 1 OBSERVER | REAL ESTATE OCTOBER 2017

West Orange offers myriad living options. SPECIAL SECTION

GRAND SLAM GESTURE

The Windermere resident and founder of the Johnny Damon Foundation has pledged money and time to a new facility planned in Winter Garden. PAGE 8. Amy Quesinberry

YOUR TOWN CHEF TO HOST COOKING DEMO YMCA of Central Florida Director of Healthy Eating Gary Appelsies will host a Facebook Live cooking event at 4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 22. Gather your family and join Appelsies for a live healthy-cooking demo and conversation. Prepare a dinner in your own home as Appelsies talks you through each step. The team from Family Dinner Project also will offer dinner table conversation starters to put into practice during your family meals. For recipes and shopping lists, visit ymcacf.org/recipes. For more information, visit bit.ly/2ywW96j.

Oakland amends its wastewater agreement

BLACK

TIE

The amendment was necessary after the town reassessed its reserve capacity needs. AMY QUESINBERRY COMMUNITY EDITOR

Four years ago, the Oakland Town Commission entered into an interlocal agreement with the city of Clermont for provision of wastewater services. At the time, both parties understood future adjustments would need to be made as growth came to the two municipalities. “That time has come,” Public Works Director Mike Parker said

in his report to the Town Commission. When the original agreement was made, to accommodate the additional flow from Oakland, officials determined Clermont’s force main along Hartle Road would have to be upgraded or rerouted. Oakland agreed to pay a proportionate share of the force main and lift station. Because of growth in the area, SEE WATER PAGE 10

Canine Companions for Independence hosts annual Tales and Tails Gala. SEE PAGE 11.

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

YOUR CALENDAR

THURSDAY, OCT. 19

BOOK SIGNING OF “OCOEE! A NOVEL” 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 19 at the Winter Garden Heritage Foundation History Research and Education Center, 21 E. Plant St. Ocoee authors Gail Waxman and Myra Kinnie will present their book, “Ocoee! A Novel,” which is based on historical information surrounding the city’s 1920 election race riot. The sisters will be selling and signing copies of their book. (407) 656-3244. CANCER SUPPORT GROUP 6:30 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 19, in The Attic of Building C at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, 4851 S. ApopkaVineland Road, Orlando. This support group is for cancer fighters, survivors, caregivers and spouses or partners. Meetings include a time of sharing, spiritual and emotional support, as well as a different topic each month related to the key challenges associated with cancer. A guest

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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2017

speaker will present on Yoga for Cancer Patients. Email care@ st.lukes.org or call (407) 8764991, Ext. 262, to register.

FRIDAY, OCT. 20

BRIDGEWATER MIDDLE FALL FESTIVAL 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 20, at Bridgewater Middle School, 5600 Tiny Road, Winter Garden. The PTSO festival is Harry Potter-themed and features a climb challenge, corn maze, Gringotts Bank money machine, Quidditch, Every Flavor Jelly Bean Contest, carnival games, food trucks and more. Musical entertainment provided by Bridgewater Music programs. Entrance is free; wristbands for attractions are $20. (407) 905-3710. THIRD ANNUAL CROOKED CAN OKTOBERFEST 4 p.m. Friday, Oct. 20; 1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 21; and noon Sunday, Oct. 22, at the Crooked Can Brewing Company and Plant Street

Market, 426 W. Plant St., Winter Garden. The three-day festival includes live German music, authentic German food, arts, crafts and a beer garden. (407) 395-9520.

SATURDAY, OCT. 21

20TH ANNUAL OAKLAND HERITAGE FESTIVAL 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 21, at Speer Park, 331 N. Tubb St., Oakland. The day of family fun will include a silent auction, bike raffle, food and drinks for sale, live entertainment, Lake Apopka boat tours, hay rides, children’s activities, a children’s art show and many merchants and vendors. Presented by the town of Oakland and the Oakland Nature Preserve. Proceeds benefit ONP. (407) 905-0054 or information@oaklandnaturepreserve.org. ANNUAL FALL SALE 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 21, at Stoneybrook West Storage, 1650 Avalon Road, Winter Garden. Tenants will be selling from the fronts of their units, as well as in the parking lot. (407) 654-3037. THE BOO! BASH 2:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 21, at the Winter Garden Library, 805 E. Plant St. Wear your favorite Halloween costume for a ghoulish good

OUR TOUGHNESS IS YOUR STRENGTH.

time with creepy crafts, spooky stories and more. Ages 3 to 12. (407) 835-7323. CITRUS ELEMENTARY PTA FUNDRAISER 8 a.m. to noon Saturday, Oct. 21, at Citrus Elementary School, 87 N. Clarke Road, Ocoee. All space-rental proceeds will assist in Florida hurricane relief efforts. Vendor space is $20 for a covered area and $15 for open space. Participants can sell either rummage sale items or crafts. Vendors keep their own profits. To reserve a space, call Marie Guzman, (321) 297-5070. Admission is free. FOURTH ANNUAL WINDERMERE CRAFT BEER FEST 4 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 21, along Main Street in downtown Windermere. Organized by the Downtown Business Committee, the annual event features tastings of local craft beer brews, a choice of food vendors and live music. Proceeds will benefit the Windermere Police Department Foundation Inc. and the Florida Brewers Guild. Tickets available at windermerecraftbeerfest.com. JCCF CHARITY FISHING TOURNAMENT Starts at safe light Saturday, Oct. 21, at Hickory Point Recreational Facility, 27341 State

Road 19, Tavares. First prize is $1,000. A barbecue dinner will be offered after the event, and there will be raffles and giveaways. Cost is $100 per boat. Proceeds benefit the Jimmy Crabtree Cancer Fund. Register and review rules at jccancerfund.org. SEBRENIA BROWN’S CELEBRATION OF LIFE 4 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 21, at the Jessie Brock Community Center, 310 N. Dillard St., Winter Garden. Spend the evening with Sebrenia as she celebrates another year of being cancer-free. For information, call Sebrenia at (407) 690-1518 or Pastor Gloria Harp at (407) 879-2140.

MONDAY, OCT. 23

CAREERSOURCE CENTRAL FLORIDA 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday, Oct. 23, at the Winter Garden Library, 805 E. Plant St. (407) 835-7323. OUR GREEN FUTURE MEETING 6:30 p.m. Monday, Oct. 23, at Axum Coffee, 146 W. Plant St., Winter Garden. Join the family of the late Hudson Lowe when they hold the first meeting of Our Green Future Inc., which will further his dream of creating a sustainable community. Details on the green initiative are on Our Green Future Inc.’s Facebook page.

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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2017

Looking for something

SPOOK-TACULAR? West Orange residents have a variety of Halloween events to choose from this year, from creepy and ghoulish to fun and family-friendly.

ith Halloween just around the corner, haunted houses and trickor-treat events are popping up around town. From ghoulish ghosts and graveyards to hayrides and candy, West Orange resi-

dents can enjoy all things scary, or not-so-scary, this Halloween season. WINTER GARDEN

GOLF CART TRUNK-OR-TREAT WHEN: 7 to 9 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 29 WHERE: Winter Garden Masonic Lodge parking lot, 230 W. Bay St. DETAILS: Golf cart owners are encouraged to dress up, decorate their carts and take candy to hand out. Those interested in participating are asked to respond on the Winter Garden Golf Cart Club’s Facebook page. HALLOWEENFEST WHEN: 6 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 31 WHERE: Plant Street in downtown Winter Garden DETAILS: Hosted by the city of Winter Garden, this annual event will feature trick-or-treating along Plant Street. Attendees can also enjoy vendors, activities for kids, food, a hay maze and crafts. HOWL-O-WEEN WHEN: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 29 WHERE: Plant Street Market, 426 W. Plant St., Winter Garden TICKETS: Entry is $10 per participating pet. DETAILS: This not-soscary Halloween event is all about furry friends. Hosted by Crooked Can Brewing Company, participants have the opportunity to show off their costumed pets in a costume contest and parade. The top three winners will receive prizes. The parade of pets kicks off at 1 p.m.

PANIC ON PLANT STREET WHEN: 7 to 10 p.m. Friday, Oct. 27, to Sunday, Oct. 29, and Tuesday, Oct. 31 WHERE: Winter Garden Masonic Lodge No. 165, 230 W. Bay St., Winter Garden TICKETS: Tickets are $10 and can be purchased at squ.re/2ymh10L. The money raised will help support the Masonic lodge’s Adopt-a-School program. DETAILS: This year marks the first haunted house that will be held at the Winter Garden Masonic Lodge No. 165. The house will feature six different themed rooms, from a mad-scientist lab to a graveyard and a maze, for attendees to explore. The event is not recommended for young children, so free adult-supervised childcare will be provided on site. ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW EXPERIENCE WHEN: 8 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 31 WHERE: Garden Theatre, 160 W. Plant St., Winter Garden. TICKETS: Movie tickets are $10, prop bags are $5. No outside props allowed. DETAILS: Enjoy a night of interactive entertainment with hostess Miss P. Tart. Watch the 1975 film, play along with a game show, enter a costume contest with prizes and take advantage of photo opps. Rated R (17 years and younger must be accompanied by an adult).

OCOEE

10TH ANNUAL HAUNTED HOUSE WHEN: 7:30 to 11 p.m. Friday, Oct. 20, Saturday, Oct. 21, Friday, Oct. 27, and Saturday, Oct. 28 WHERE: 951 Ocoee Apopka Road, Ocoee TICKETS: Tickets cost $5 per person. DETAILS: Hosted by the Ocoee Parks and Recreation Department, this annual event will not only include its haunted house, but also a haunted walk taking guests along a path of spooky sights and sounds. The event also includes a variety of not-so-scary activities for younger children, including a bounce house, hayrides, candy and snacks. Attendees are also encouraged to bring non-perishable food items to be donated to the West Orange Christian Service Center. OCOEE LIONS CLUB HAUNTED HOUSE WHEN: 7 to 11 p.m. Friday, Oct. 20 to Sunday, Oct. 22, and Friday, Oct. 27, to Sunday, Oct. 29 WHERE: 108 Taylor St., Ocoee TICKETS: Tickets cost $5 per person. DETAILS: Can you survive the asylum? This year, the Ocoee Lions Club is hosting this haunted house that has been transformed into a creepy asylum. Real-life paranormal investigators also will be on site for meet-and-greet sessions.

WINDERMERE/ HORIZON WEST

HALLOWEEN BOO BASH WHEN: 5 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 28 WHERE: The Grove Orlando, 4744 S. ApopkaVineland Road., Orlando DETAILS: Children can see eerie mad-scientist experiments in between trick-ortreating around the plaza. The event also will include games, contests and a costume parade. HALLOWEEN COSTUME PARADE AND HAYRIDE WHEN: 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 28 WHERE: Windermere Town Hall, 520 Main St. DETAILS: The community is invited to this annual costume parade. Afterward, attendees can enjoy hayrides, stories, cookies and treats.

WINDERMERE HIGH SCHOOL TRUNK OR TREAT WHEN: 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 26 WHERE: Windermere High School, 5523 Winter Garden-Vineland Road, Windermere DETAILS: The Windermere High PTSO is hosting this trick-or-treat community event. Attendees can enjoy trick-or-treating in the courtyard, with all treats provided by the school’s clubs and sports teams.

Winter Garden considering utilities, internet takeover The city announced it is planning to conduct feasibility studies to see if it could provide utilities, internet and cable services to its residents. GABBY BAQUERO NEWS EDITOR WINTER GARDEN In response to complaints against Spectrum and Duke Energy post-Hurricane Irma, the city of Winter Garden is considering whether it could

follow in the footsteps of Winter Park and Orlando in providing utilities to its residents. City Manager Mike Bollhoefer announced the idea to city commissioners during the Oct. 12 meeting, which was welcomed with several head nods and

expressions of approval. “We would like to start taking a look at Duke Energy first, because our franchise with Duke Energy expires in 2022,” Bollhoefer said. “So we’d like to take a preliminary look to see if we should consider taking over utilities ourselves. Winter Park does that, Orlando does that, and Orlando’s utility is a cash cow because they provide a lot of funds with their utilities.” The ensuing discussion cited the dissatisfaction residents have

expressed with Duke Energy and Spectrum as the reason behind the decision to consider the switch from a private company to city-run utilities and internet/cable service. An additional bonus if the city goes through with it would be its ability to bury more of its utility lines, Bollhoefer said. After the city conducts a preliminary review on whether becoming its own utility and internet service provider is a fea-

sible and cost-effective option for the city — which will include talks with other cities who have succeed in the same endeavor — city staff will discuss their findings with the commission and decide whether or not to proceed with more concrete plans. “We have a great reputation in Winter Garden, and I think we could do a great job for our residents,” Bollhoefer stated. “I think we could do it even better.”

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2017

Our miracle baby:

WEST ORANGE TIMES &

Observer

One year later MICHAEL ENG EXECUTIVE EDITOR

s forecasters shifted Hurricane Irma’s path farther away from Central Florida in the days before the storm’s Florida landfall, my wife, Jess, and I made the decision to stay home rather than risk getting stuck on northbound Interstate 95. At that time, we felt it was the safest decision we could make for our family. But just before our power and cell service went out that Sunday night, the last weather report we were able to receive had the eye coming much closer than we expected. We already had secured our miracle baby, Calliope, born 11-and-one-half weeks early on Oct. 9, 2016, along with her older brother, Lyric, and sister, Aria, in our master closet. It took some doing, but they finally were asleep. Jess and I sat in the black, trying desperately to connect to any weather service from our quickly draining phones. About 15 minutes before Irma was to arrive in our area, we moved to the closet, too. Jess curled up on the floor next to the kiddos, while I pulled a rocking chair into the doorway

and collapsed in it. I had never heard sounds like that before. In that moment, I felt useless. I couldn’t make the storm go away. I couldn’t travel back in time, pack my family up and leave. All I could do was put my body between them and what was going on outside. So there I sat. In a chair. At 2 a.m. Waiting for the roar to end. It’s what daddies do. Their most important purpose is to protect their kids. After each one was born, that was the first promise I made — that I would do everything in my power to keep them safe. Some of you will remember Calliope’s dramatic entrance into this world. Jess was rushed to Winnie Palmer Hospital for Children and Babies in early September 2016 with severe preeclampsia and spent five weeks on bedrest before Calliope decided she had had enough. So, after an emergency C-section, we said hello to the 2-pound, 12-ounce surprise of our lives. The next seven weeks were grueling. Jess was discharged, but Calliope stayed in the NICU. We celebrated every tiny milestone — every ounce of weight gain, every tube removal. I became obsessed with her heart rate and oxygen level and monitored the numbers for any dip. It broke our hearts every time we had to leave the hospital without her, but we knew we were doing what was best. And as only thin panes of glass separated us from Irma’s rage outside, I thought about the last time I attempted to sleep in a

“If we are to build a better world, we must remember that the guiding principle is this — a policy of freedom for the individual is the only truly progressive policy.” Friedrich Hayek “Road to Serfdom,” 1944 Publisher / Dawn Willis, dwillis@OrangeObserver.com Executive Editor / Michael Eng, meng@OrangeObserver.com Design Editor / Jessica Eng, jeng@OrangeObserver.com Senior Sports Editor / Steven Ryzewski, sryzewski@OrangeObserver.com News Editor Gabby Baquero, gbaquero@Orange Observer.com Community Editor / Amy Quesinberry, amyq@OrangeObserver.com Staff Writers

A family complete: Calliope Eng, 1, enjoyed her first birthday with sister Aria and brother Lyric.

chair. It was Oct. 7, 2016 — two days before Calliope’s birth and yes, during another hurricane: Matthew. With Jess in the hospital, I packed Lyric and Aria into the minivan to wait it out at Winnie Palmer. That night, the kids curled up on the Murphy bed in Jess’ hospital room, while I took the recliner. That night, I couldn’t hear the wind through the thick hospital glass. Everything was quiet, save for the beeps and whirrs of the hospital equipment and Lyric’s and Aria’s snores. My back was killing me. But they were safe. Daddy made good on his promise. Today, Calliope is a spunky, sweet and perfect baby — so beautiful that she turns heads everywhere she goes. Her first word — “ball.” She loves to stick out her tongue in the mirror, her giggle is absolutely contagious, and bath time is her favorite part of the day. She has brought more joy to our family than we ever

thought possible. She makes us whole. And sometimes, I’m afraid I’m going to wear a hole in her cheek because I can’t stop smooching it. Last month, we braved the rain to participate in Winnie Palmer’s annual Walk for Winnie fundraiser and celebrate with other families of preemies. On her birthday, we all wore our Walk for Winnie T-shirts in her honor. Calliope slowly, curiously, pressed her hand into her smash cake and enjoyed her first taste of chocolate. Then, she figured out it was more fun to smear it all over the table, her seat and her body. After her bath, I strapped on her foot monitor so we could watch her heart rate and oxygen levels as she slept. We’ve watched them every night of her entire life. And even though she’s 1 year old, she’s still — and always will be — our miracle preemie baby.

JCCF hosting first charity fishing tournament The Jimmy Crabtree family has added a fourth fundraiser to its annual events, and the first fishing tournament is Saturday, Oct. 21, on Lake Harris. AMY QUESINBERRY COMMUNITY EDITOR

Jimmy Crabtree loved going fishing, and he was out on the water with his fishing pole whenever possible. So it was only fitting for his family to add a fishing tournament to the list of annual fundraisers the Jimmy Crabtree Cancer Fund hosts in his memory. Already on the calendar are an annual golf cart poker run in January, golf tournament in March and bowling tournament in August. The fishing tournament will be held Saturday, Oct. 21, at Lake Harris and the Hickory Point Recreational Facility in Tavares. The entry fee is $100 per boat, and participants can register online at jccancerfund.org or the morning of the event. Boats will launch at safe light, and weigh-in is at 3 p.m. First prize is $1,000. Following the event, there will be a barbecue dinner, raffles and giveaways. ABOUT JIMMY AND JCCF

Jimmy Crabtree was a 1987 graduate of West Orange High School and 1991 graduate of Florida Southern College. He was a project manager for

Courtesy photo

Jimmy Crabtree was an avid fisherman.

R.C. Stevens Construction Co., in Orlando, and received several awards for his work. He was involved in several downtown Winter Garden projects, including the Garden Theatre restoration and Roper Garden Building construction. Crabtree made it a priority to help others, taking trips to

Nevada, Washington, Mississippi and Puerto Rico with the Missions Team at the First United Methodist Church of Winter Garden. Crabtree died in April 2011 of carcinoid cancer at age 42. His wife, Lorie; their children, Jacob and Mattie; his parents, Fred and Sue; and his brother and sister, Andy and Karen, founded the Jimmy Crabtree Cancer Fund and, for six years, have held regular fundraising events so they can help other local individuals with cancer. Before Jimmy died, he and Lorie talked about forming an organization that would assist other young families in West Orange who had a loved one fighting cancer. “Jimmy and Lorie benefited by the support and love of their family, friends, church and community and wanted to pass this opportunity to another family,” according to the JCCF website. “This important project will lend much-needed financial support to those impacted by this terrible disease.” Next month, JCCF is holding two events on Monday, Nov. 27. From 4 p.m. till closing, The Tasting Room, 99 W. Plant St., Winter Garden, will donate a percentage of all drinks and food during its

JCCF CHARITY FISHING TOURNAMENT WHEN: First light Saturday, Oct. 21 WHERE: Lake Harris, Hickory Point Recreational Facility, 27341 State Road 19, Tavares REGISTRATION: To register and review tournament rules, go to jccancerfund.org. Participants can sign up the morning of the event, as well. DONATE: Checks can be made payable to JCCF and mailed to P.O. Box 770446, Winter Garden, FL 34777.

Making a Difference Monday. That day also marks the kickoff of the Brighten Up Someone’s Christmas program, in which gift cards can be donated to help someone battling cancer. Cards in the suggested amount of $25 can be donated from Ace Hardware, Publix Super Markets, WinnDixie, Walgreens, CVS, Walmart and Target, in addition to gasoline cards or Visa, Master Card or American Express. The cards will be enclosed in a JCCF Christmas card signed from JCCF Friends and could be distributed locally or throughout the United States. For information, email jccancerfund@aol.com.

Brittany Gaines, bgaines@Orange Observer.com Danielle Hendrix, dhendrix@OrangeObserver.com Advertising Executives Michelle Gentry, mgentry@Orange Observer.com Cyndi Gustafson, advertising@Orange Observer.com Creative Services Tony Trotti, ttrotti@OrangeObserver.com Customer Service Representatives Allison Brunelle, abrunelle@Orange Observer.com Krista Pierce, kpierce@orangeobserver.com Katie Rehm, krehm@orangeobserver.com

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The Ocoee Police Department expects the internal review report will be published this week. NEWS EDITOR

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Investigation of dog shooting nearly complete, Ocoee police say

GABBY BAQUERO

Ocoee residents following updates involving the fatal shooting of an Ocoee family’s dog have waited since July for the department to complete its internal investigation. The incident, which occurred outside the family’s home July 17, resulted in the death of one of the family’s two dogs — an 11-yearold Catahoula hound dog named Duke. The department’s incident report does not directly acknowledge that Ocoee officer Stevens Bertrand shot Duke after entering the fenced yard, but it does mention that animal control services were contacted to pick up the remains of a deceased dog after receiving permission from the dog’s owner, Charlie Brooks. It has been nearly three months since the incident, and no internal review report has yet been made available to the public. Ocoee Deputy Chief Steve McCosker noted the department has only one investigator who also shares other duties. However, he expects the report to be completed this week. “There is only one investigator, and he’s been working on that, but the delay was caused by several things,” McCosker said. “The homeowner went away for two weeks, and he was really the only other witness other than the officer, and before getting to the officer, we had to interview the homeowner due to the Policeman’s Bill of Rights … and right now, to the best of my knowledge, (the report) is being typed up.” If the report determines Bertrand used reasonable force and is justified in shooting Duke given the circumstances, Bertrand will not be disciplined. If the report concludes Bertrand’s actions were not justified, then any type of disciplinary action, which could include termination, would be subject to the discretion of Police

Courtesy photo

Duke is an 11-year-old dog who was shot by an Ocoee police officer July 17.

Chief Charles Brown, McCosker added. Bertrand has since resumed his position as a School Resource Officer at Ocoee High School — a position he’s held for about 18 months, McCosker said. Bertrand was not assigned to work as an SRO because of the pending investigation, he said. “It’s not a position — especially because it deals with kids — it’s not a position where we would transfer someone because they’re under investigation,” McCosker said. “If we had to pull someone for administrative purposes, we would either put them on administrative leave with pay, or we would go ahead and bring them inside to do clerical work.” Although not required by state law, every law-enforcement officer at the department receives video training on how to interact with canines on the field hosted by the U.S Department of Justice, McCosker said. To date, Bertrand has received that training twice in his six years of employment with the Ocoee Police Department, once in 2012 and again in April 2017. To avoid officer-involved dog shootings, McCosker said the department has decided to invest in a program called “Be Aware of Residential Canine,” or BARK. This would require compliance from dog owners who will be asked to register their homes as having a canine and be given reflective decals featuring a paw print to display in front of their residence.

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Earvin “Magic” Johnson Healthcare Advocate

Orange, Osceola and Seminole Counties. Simply Healthcare Plans, Inc. is a Medicare-contracted coordinated care plan that has a Medicaid contract with the State of Florida Agency for Health Care Administration to provide benefits or arrange for benefits to be provided to enrollees. Enrollment in Simply Healthcare Plans, Inc. depends on contract renewal. This information is not a complete description of benefits. Contact the plan for more information. Limitations, copayments, and restrictions may apply. Benefits, premiums and/or copayments/coinsurance may change on January 1 of each year. Benefits may vary by plan. You must continue to pay your Medicare Part B premium. For full-dual members the Part B premium is covered. Premiums, copays, coinsurance and deductibles may vary based on the level of Extra Help you receive. Please contact the plan for further details. Medicare evaluates plans based on a 5-star rating system. Star Ratings are calculated each year and may change from one year to the next. The Formulary, pharmacy network, and/or provider network may change at any time. You will receive notice when necessary. From October 1 to February 14, we are open 7 days a week from 8 a.m. - 8 p.m., EST. Beginning February 15 until September 30, we are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. 8 p.m., EST. We do not discriminate, exclude people, or treat them differently on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability in our health programs and activities. ATENCIÓN: Si habla español, tiene a su disposición servicios gratuitos de asistencia lingüística. Llame al 1-877-577-0115 / TTY: 711. ATANSYON: Si w pale Kreyòl Ayisyen, gen sèvis èd pou lang ki disponib gratis pou ou. Rele 1-877-577-0115 / TTY: 711. Paid endorsement. Y0114_18_32935_U_003_Final_3_Accepted

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WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2017

24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE

MLB’S Johnny Damon boosts Boys & Girls Club with foundation check AMY QUESINBERRY

License # CMC 056836

COMMUNITY EDITOR

Retired Major League Baseball player Johnny Damon knows the value of the Boys & Girls Clubs and wishes he and his friends had access to more programs like this when they were growing up in southwest Orlando. Damon was in Winter Garden recently to present a check from the Johnny Damon Foundation for $50,000, which pushes the capital campaign closer to its $1.5 million construction goal. Damon, a father of eight, met with elementary school students in the Boys & Girls Club, raced them across the basketball court and fielded questions from the young children. Are you on YouTube? Yes. Have you ever played with Babe Ruth? Only on video games. Did Jackie Robinson play with you? No, I was a lot younger than Jackie. How much do baseball players make? There are some who make $33 million. About 40 students gathered in the gym to hear Damon talk about his visit. “This is an awesome place you guys come to every day,” Damon said. “This is such a great organization that my foundation came today to drop off a check ... so kids coming behind you can enjoy, too.” Damon, 43, started playing Little League baseball when he was 6. His skills improved the more he played with the older, talent-

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Amy Quesinberry

Johnny Damon presents a check to Shannon Yohe, of the West Orange Boys & Girls Club. Behind them is Randy June, whose Junebug Foundation has pledged funds as well. In front are club participants Richard Mesner, left, Aniyah Rutland, Antonio Rodriguez and Maira Mendoza.

ed players. He continued playing baseball at Dr. Phillips High School and was planning to play at the University of Florida, but the Kansas City Royals called and turned him pro at age 18. He was in the Major Leagues for 18 years and won two World Series rings with the Boston Red Sox and New York Yankees. He retired four years ago. Damon started the Johnny

Damon Foundation in 2007. “This is what it’s set up for,” he said. “The reason for the foundation is there’s somebody always in need. … And it seems like this place is a wonderful place.” Damon was introduced to the Boys & Girls Club by Randy June, a friend and owner of June Engineering Consultants.

SEE DAMON PAGE 10

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WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

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“He came to me and told me that they were trying to build another facility for these kids, and this is the most important time for these kids,” Damon said. “And if I didn’t have great role models at this age, who knows where I would have ended up. “They need to be taught and in a safe place so they can achieve whatever dreams they have,” he said. “I didn’t come from much. I understand how tough it can be for these families. We’ve been able to do so many things and wish the funds were never ending so we can help everyone.” Damon has agreed to make another donation after his January golf tournament.

EXPANSION In a partnership between the city of Winter Garden and Orange County, a new 10,500-square-foot facility is planned to house the community’s Boys & Girls Club. The new county facility will be built on city property near the Mildred Dixon Activity Center on south West Crown Point Road. The building will include a multipurpose room, small kitchen, youth learning center, computer labs, lounge area, music room, arts lab and teen game room. The club currently meets in a small, 30-foot-by30-foot space in the nearby West Orange Recreation Center. “We presently are able to only serve only about 60 youth (elementary kids) with space available, but with the new facility will be able to serve more than 200 and, most importantly, will have a facility

for both youth and teens,” said Randy June, of June Engineering Consultants. According to June, 50% of the plans are completed for the new structure and agreements are being drafted with the city of Winter Garden for construction and with Orange County for operations. “We would like to start construction the first quarter of 2018 and hopefully have completed by fall of 2018,” June said. In addition to Johnny Damon, other supporters to this date are Orange County, the Bond Foundation, Petro Family Foundation, Martin & Gracia Andersen Foundation, Junebug Foundation, Eric Fleischner Family, Winter Garden Rotary Club and the West Orange Junior Service League. So far, $1.15 million has been raised.

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Water agreement revisited Oakland was informed earlier this year its share was going to amount to about $1.3 million based on a reserve capacity of 1.2 million gallons of wastewater per day. At the Oct. 10 Town Commission meeting, Parker said the town has revisited earlier estimates. “(We) have determined that 750,000 gallons per day is a more realistic amount to be held in reserve,” he said. “In reducing the reserve capacity, we also reduce our level of financial obligation in the construction of the new Clermont facilities. Based on current construction estimates, our obligation could be lowered to approximately $900,000.”

Both entities have agreed Oakland can use a “pay-as-you-go” approach instead of paying a lump sum. The costs will be absorbed by the new development now taking place in Oakland and will not result in any expense to existing residents and businesses — until they eventually connect to the new sewer system. In some areas of Oakland, this could be decades away. The Oakland elected officials approved the new agreement. It is expected to go before the Clermont City Commission in the coming weeks. Oakland’s water utility serves about 1,200 customers, who use

The Restoration Series: Sherry Easley

meless? 2 years How long have you been ho My children and I were What did that look like? ney ran out and I found the

tthew’s Hope You are living in the Ma at has changed wh , ng usi Transitional Ho rything! First, we have a Eve since Matthew’s Hope? safe, but

ere my children feel beautiful home to live in wh being at Matthew’s Hope, ce Sin re. mo there is so much who had dropped out of ly, Kel my 18 year old daughter for my older daughter so ver High School to be the caregi GED. Kelly has gotten a job I could work, has earned her driver’s license and is now she loves, and has gotten herCollege for Cosmetolog y. attending Orange Technical ten Matthew’s Hope, I have got As for me, with the help of g towards my own GED. I also ned 2 jobs and I am now workin pe Chest where I have lear work in the Matthew’s Ho gined to ever have. MH also ima er nev I t ped many skills tha es addressed, and have hel helped me get my IRS issu Yep, I have NO DEBT now! me to become Debt Free!

septic tanks as a means of wastewater removal. Clermont operates a water and wastewater utility that serves about 34,000 customers. Oakland has agreed to pay Clermont $4.80 per thousand gallons of wastewater accepted from the town for treatment and disposal. “Building our own treatment works was never really an option for us, (because) there would never be a large enough customer base to make such an endeavor economically feasible,” Parker said. Oakland began the process of bringing sanitary sewer and wastewater services to the town in 2013 to allow commercial development along West Colonial Drive.

TRANSITIONAL HOUSING

A few words with:

living in hotels until the mot wanting to have my teenage 3 of us living in our car. Noer sister Olivia, who has Downs daughter Kelly and her old , I asked my ex-husband to take Syndrome, living in the carp for 11 days. Once my Pastor them but he could only heland his wife Tammy heard what (Dale Ward of Discovery) us to stay in their home was happening, they allowed re out what was next. Pastor while they helped me figu Billue at Matthew’s Hope and tt Sco Dale then contacted the rest is histor y.

CONTINUED FROM 1

ent has greatest accomplishmmy self What do you think the ing in ing iev Bel ? to MH Sherry was. been for you sinceedcom I was “too gone”. I lost who

s were and again… I truly believ w what my likes and dislike I honestly didn’t even kno aming for more… and now I know me wouldn’t even consider dreI have a peace and a hope like I have again and I have a future! never experienced before. render… You uld tell people? Tow’ssurHo pe, it’s not Anything else yougivwo tthe Ma At l. tro con have to be willing to e up right to be right and learn to accept ve for ward easy. You have to give up the r homelessness and then mo your failures, embrace youpeople who give and there are people who and get past it. There are ested in me and my family. They invest ple… real invest… Matthew’s Hope inv numbers, not statistics… peo themselves in people, not people. followed by a smile u? Oh my gosh… (Sigtohatte What’s next for yoting nd college for t wan I D. GE my and laughter) after get with others with g rkin wo eer ed by a car Child Development, followI want to enjoy being a mom as Kelly children with disabilities. has been given the tools needed for life finds her own wings. Kelly t I was unable to give her and she can through Matthew’s Hope tha now soar on her own.

I found myself homeless for reasons that I am too embarrassed to mention and this review is just as embarrassing but I feel that by giving it may encourage others to seek the help of Matthew’s Hope. I was at a very low place in my life and heard of an organization called Matthew’s Hope that helped homeless people. I was living in my car so I had a “roof ” over my head! That sucked so I went to Matthew’s Hope and found out that they offered a program that housed the ones with no “roof ”. Scott Billue met with me and told me what is stringently expected of their guests. A bit intimidated, I accepted the offer to live in a house instead of my car and live by the rules that would make me a person of society again. The program consisted of very strict rules. I am happy to say that after 10 months in the housing program I completed all of the requirements that where expected of me and have been in my own apartment for 2 years now. Thanks Scott!!! – Former Guest Johnny T

We are proud to partner with Matthew’s Hope Ministries in West Orange County to better serve our community throughout the year. Matthew’s Hope provides the “Gift of Attention” to an otherwise disregarded part of our community and exemplifies what true service to others should look like in our lives. - Chief Dave Ogden Windermere Police Department

Grace •Compassion •Understanding Administrative Offices 523 S. Woodland, Winter Garden, FL 34787 407.905.9500 MatthewsHopeMinistries.org Facebook.com/MatthewsHopeMinistries

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your family. PrepareTHURSDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2017 WEST ORANGE TIMES &Protect OBSERVER your for family. their future.

ALSO INSIDE: Second Harvest Food Bank: Sugar Art Fashion Show. 12 Special Olympics Florida: Champions Gala. 13

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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2017

Mari McGaha and Tyler Kauff enjoyed supporting CCI.

Cristina Saint-Blancard and canine Tatiana, Katelyn Martin and canine Dario, Melody Steele-Martin, Brittnay DuPont and canine Twister were all smiles at the gala.

Georgia Middleman and Gary Burr perused the silent auction before hitting the stage as the musical guests.

Southern Pawspitality Canine Companions for Independence’s 21st Annual Tales and Tails Gala

Robyn and Dave Baltar and Joe and Kate Haleski were happy to support Canine Companions for Independence.

umans and their furry, four-legged counterparts roamed the Rosen Shingle Creek Saturday, Oct. 14, as they attended Canine Companions for Independence’s Southern-themed gala. The organization’s 21st annual Tales and Tails Gala was themed “Southern Pawspitality” this year, and even the dogs in attendance wore fancy bows and bowties. CCI’s gala featured Southern-inspired cuisine, live and silent auctions and entertainment from Gary Burr and Georgia Middleman. CCI is an assistance-dog organization that matches service and assistance dogs to people with disabilities. — DANIELLE HENDRIX

Joe Haughney, John McClain and Donald Ferro chatted as they attended the VIP reception. Gala co-chairs Mary Jacobs, Paul Richards and Robin Sanchez cuddled with some canine companions for a photo.

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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2017

2017 Sugar Art Fashion Show

at The Americas Cake Fair

Each outfit featured in the show was at least 60% edible.

“Katniss Everdeen” was designed by John Hamstra and modeled by Alyssa.

Model Kateva showed off designer Teri Tarbox’s rendition of “Tinkerbell.”

ONLINE

Right: A clutch with an ostrich head was the accessory of choice for designers Ashley Holt and Joshua John Russell’s outfit, modeled by Alexis.

See more photos at OrangeObserver.com

odels strutted the runway wearing outfits pleasing to both the eye and the palate during the Sugar Art Fashion Show at The Americas Cake Fair Friday, Oct. 13. The show brought together artists from all over the country — including some from Central and South America — who took on the challenge of creating wearable works of confectionary art. Outfits were all at least 60% edible. Partial proceeds will benefit Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida.

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— DANIELLE HENDRIX

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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2017

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The Plant City High School Raiders cheerleaders walked visitors to the Champions Gala.

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Brad Gilmour, Jeanne Teter, Jim Payne and Florida Special Olympics board member Joe Dzaluk talked before the presentation began.

Haley Eckel won the Unified Partner of the Year award at the gala.

ala-goers walked arm in arm with cheerleaders down the red carpet during Special Olympics Florida’s Champions Gala Saturday, Oct. 14. Held at the Four Seasons Resort at Walt Disney World, the fundraiser recognized the athletes, coaches and unified partners who contribute to the state competitions for children with disabilities. The money raised from the event will benefit Special Olympics competitions. — HARRY SAYER

ONLINE

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Special Olympics Florida 2017 Champions Gala

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Ashley Bowles and Alex Patton mingled with other guests at the fundraiser.

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See more photos at OrangeObserver.com

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WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2017

Oakland to honor heritage $ .00 $ .00 at 20th annual festival $$ .00 .00 Cleaning, & X-rays Cleaning, ExamExam & X-rays

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AMY QUESINBERRY COMMUNITY EDITOR

Cleaning, Exam & X-rays Cleaning, Exam & X-rays

(Reg. expires 12/31/17. Includes exam, cleaning (Reg. $297) Offer$297) expiresOffer 12/31/17. Includes exam, cleaning (prophylaxis) & Patients x-rays. Only. NewOne Patients (prophylaxis) & x-rays. New or moreOnly. of theOne or more of the following ADAreflect codes reflectrendered the treatment rendered (Reg. following $297) Offer expires Includes exam, cleaning ADA codes 12/31/17. may themay treatment under thisPatients offer. D0150, D0272, (prophylaxis) & x-rays. New Only. OneD0330, or moreD1110. of the D0210, D1110. under this offer. D0150, D0330, D0272, D0210,

A yearly tradition of recognizing the town of Oakland’s history continues Saturday, Oct. 21, as the town and the Oakland Nature Preserve hold the 20th Annual Oakland Heritage Festival. ONP’s largest fundraiser takes place from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Speer Park, 331 N. Tubb St., Oakland. The family event offers many opportunities for fun and learning with a variety of activities planned. At 10:45 a.m., Jim Crescitelli, of the Winter Garden Heritage Foundation, will share details about Oakland’s past. Enjoy animal presentations at noon and 1:45 p.m., presented by the Avian Reconditioning Center and Oakland Nature Preserve. Take hayrides through the historic portions of Oakland every hour from 10 to 3 for $1 and boat tours of Lake Apopka at various times during the day for $15 a person. For tickets, call (407) 9050054 or go to oaklandnaturepreserve.org.

(Reg. ADA $297) Offer 12/31/17. following codes mayexpires reflect the treatmentIncludes rendered exam, cleaning

(prophylaxis) & x-rays. New Patients Only. One or more of the under this offer. D0150, D0330, D0272, D1110. Cleaning, Exam &D0210, X-rays following ADA codes may reflect-ORthe treatment rendered

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(Reg. under $297) Offer expiresD0150, 12/31/17. IncludesD0272, exam, cleaning this offer. D0330, D0210, D1110. (prophylaxis) & x-rays. New Patients Only. One or more of the following ADA codes may reflect the treatment rendered under this offer. D0150, D0330, D0272, D0210, D1110.

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Veneers with using TAP •• Sleep Apnea Sleep Apnea using TAPTAP • Sleep Apnea using

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Offer expires 12/31/17. One or more of the following ADA

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There will be raffles and a silent auction, live music, a petting zoo and food vendors, too. For those who want to take something home with them, a pollinator-plant sale will be held and merchant booths will have items for sale. The Kid Zone, which benefits Oakland Avenue Charter School, will have games for children, an arts and crafts area and a bake sale. If you are going to hear the music, the Oakland Presbyterian YCM Band takes the stage at 9:30 a.m., the charter school band performs at 10, the Roy Baker Band goes on at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m., and John Starkovich begins at 2:45. Always a popular stop is the silent auction. Bidding starts at 10 a.m. and ends at 3 p.m. Items up for auction include theme park and Orlando Magic basketball tickets, gift certificates to local businesses and restaurants, gift baskets and memberships.

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You. Your Neighbors. Your Neighborhood. W E ST O RA N G E T I M E S &

Observer Celebrating 110 years in West Orange

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YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.

VOLUME 82, NO. 40

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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2015

Meet the man in the rave cave

Sean O’Neill launched the Facebook group, Winter Garden — Rants, Raves and Reviews, 18 months ago. Story on 13. ARTS+CULTURE

ALL FIRED UP Winter Garden single mom Erin Akers has found her passion — firefighting.

West Orange High thespians dish up a spoonful of sugar.

AMY QUESINBERRY RHODE COMMUNITY EDITOR

PAGE 15

appelling down the side of a sevenstory building was easy for Erin Akers because she’s not afraid of heights, but confined-spaces training was a bit of a challenge for the Winter Garden resident, who is working toward becoming a firefighter.

YOUR TOWN ALUMNI MEET ON GRIDIRON

STORY ON PAGE 4

Call (407)905-0406 for FREE pick-up or bring smaller items to the ReStore so you can shop.

Two former West Orange Wildcats and West Orange Warrior football players competed in a recent SEC game. Garrett “Juice” Johnson is a wide receiver for the Kentucky Wildcats, and Sean Kelly is a punter for the South Carolina Gamecocks. With them is Eric Poole, who was one of their coaches during their Wildcats years.

HISPANIC HERITAGE Ocoee is celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month through Oct. 15. The month recognizes the contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans to the United States. Motorists traveling on Clarke Road will see festive “Ocoee Celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month” pole banners dotting the street. Viewers can tune in to Ocoee TV to watch a fourpart series titled “Latino Americans: The 500-Year Legacy that Shaped a Nation.” The show will air at 10:30 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays on Channel 493, Bright House Networks.

13369 West Colonial Drive, Winter Garden

David Haynes

Erin Akers is nearly finished with her firefighting training, and then she’s hoping to get a position with a local fire department. She and her 6-year-old son, Liam, live in Winter Garden.

Parker Boudreaux chooses Notre Dame — much to the delight of longtime supporters of his school. SEE STORY ON 25

Car-show organizers search for new sponsor The Sept. 19 Cruz-N-Car Show in downtown Winter Garden might have been the last. ZAK KERR STAFF WRITER WINTER GARDEN Droves drove to the large parking lot on West Plant Street for what might have been the last Cruz-N-Car Show, a tradition each third Saturday of the month for about seven years. The longstanding sponsorship of the show from the Winter Garden Merchants Association ended recently, based on cost increases that caused the association to lose money with the show each

SEE CAR SHOW PAGE 4

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A lack of sponsorship has led to the possible finale of a monthly downtown Winter Garden car show fervently supported among community members.

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WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2017

Walking the red carpet

uring halftime of Foundation Academy’s Homecoming football game on Friday, Oct. 6, the school crowned its 2017 Homecoming king and queen. The candidates were ushered onto the field i before walking the red carpet. Seniors Elishua Colon and Taylor Roukey were crowned king and queen. — BRITTANY GAINES

Sophomores Ben Bales and Anna Binkley waved to the crowd.

Les MisérablesSELECTED SONGS IN CONCERT

Juniors Bryson Boast and Anna Grace Williams rode in a vintage car up to the red carpet.

October 28, 2017 7:00 p.m. | Mainstage

Freshmen Jay Garver and Ella Crabtree represented their class in the homecoming court.

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The crowd cheered as seniors Elishua Colon and Taylor Roukey were crowned king and queen.

See more at OrangeObserver.com

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WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2017

SPONSORSHIPS AVAILABLE

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OrangeObserver.com

MIKE YOAKUM Pastor P: 407.656.1520 C: 407.758.3570 MYOAKUM407@AOL.COM

JOSH GARRICK

Josh Garrick, a West Orange resident, is a fine-art photographer, writer and curator. He holds a master’s degree in fine arts from Columbia University. He was the first non-Greek artist in history to exhibit in the National Archaeological Museum of Greece. In Orlando, Mayor Buddy Dyer named June 27 as “Josh Garrick Day” in perpetuity.

‘POLKADOTS: THE COOL KIDS MUSICAL’

Oct. 23 to Nov. 19. The Orlando Repertory Theatre, under the inspired direction of Jeff Revels, has raised the quality bar for children’s theater from costumes and sets to casting and direction. In this new musical, inspired by civil rights pioneer Ruby Bridges, “Polkadots” follows Lily Polkadot as she moves to the “Squares Only” town of Rockaway. As the first Polkadot to attend the all-Square school, Lily faces the seemingly impossible task of gaining acceptance from her peers. From bullying to segregated drinking fountains, Lily’s quest seems hopeless, until a Square boy’s curiosity blooms into friendship. A perfect introduction to the idea of diversity for young people, this new musical will be performed at the Orlando Repertory Theater. Call (407) 896-7365 or visit OrlandoRep.com.

SANTANA’S ‘TRANSMOGRIFY TOUR’

7 p.m. Oct. 26 at the Amway Center. “Transmogrify” means to transform in a magical or surprising way, and that certainly describes Rock and Roll Hall-of-Famer and guitar virtuoso Carlos Santana, who turns 70 in July. During his 50-year career, he has “trans-

mogrified” from being the only performer at Woodstock without an album to a multi-platinum, Grammy-winning artist whose 1999 hit, “Smooth,” became one of the hits of the decade. Merging artistic credibility, staying power and pop success, his ground-breaking Afro-Latin-blues-rock fusion eclipses musical genres and generational, cultural and geographical boundaries for audiences who “feel the love” in his concerts and send it right back to this living legend. Call (407) 440-7900 or visit amwaycenter.com.

‘SWAN LAKE’

Oct. 27 to 29. When a ballet company announces ‘Swan Lake’ as part of their season, it is an announcement to the world that says, “We’ve put in the work — and we’re ready for the big time!” There is no bigger “Big Time” in the dance world than what shows up on-stage for “Swan Lake.” Set to Tchaikovsky’s brilliant musical score, performed live by the Orlando Philharmonic, Swan Lake is the world’s most celebrated ballet. To watch the way in which Director Robert Hill has built the Orlando Ballet Company into what Mayor Dyer has called “world class” allows us to highly recommend these three performances based on the consistently impressive dancing from the Orlando Ballet last season. This tale of a princess-turned-into-aswan promises to be among the “must-see” performances of the year at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. Order your tickets by calling 844-513-2014 or visiting drphillipscenter.org.

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performance is enhanced as flutist Colleen Blagov offers one of the first performances of the much-in-demand composer Judd Greenstein’s “Flute Concerto.” The concert concludes with Edward Elgar’s hauntingly beautiful “Enigma Variations” at the Plaza Live in East Orlando. Call (407) 770-0071 or visit orlandophil.org.

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Orlando Ballet Company will perform ‘Swan Lake’ from Oct. 27 to 29.

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7 p.m. Oct. 23. One of the ways in which Orlando has been graced with an arts scene that places our performers on a world stage is the decision by the board of the Orlando Philharmonic to name Eric Jacobsen as the orchestra’s new maestro. In this presentation, the orchestra’s music director and world-renowned cellist Jacobsen takes the stage as a soloist, performing the virtuosic second concerto of Haydn. This special

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‘VERDI REQUIEM’

Oct. 21 and 22. The “Verdi Requiem” magically combines the drama of opera and the sonorities of the symphony with virtuosic vocal solos. In 1873, Verdi went into such deep mourning for a friend that he could not attend the funeral. Instead, the composer created the Requiem, which had its first performance one year after his friend’s death. From the antiphonal trumpets and the crashing bass drum to the angelic call of three flutes and the breathtaking Dies Irae, Verdi created one of the world’s most thrilling musical compositions. To experience this work by the Bach Festival Chorale in the Knowles Chapel at Rollins College is … glorious. And to acknowledge the performers (the choir) as our neighbors who volunteer their time to this cultural offering makes it all the more special. Call (407) 646-2182 or visit BachFestivalFlorida.org.

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WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2017

Toll Road Brewery to open this December The brewery will open with five or six signature beers, which the co-owners have developed over the last two years. IF YOU GO TOLL ROAD BREWERY 101 W. McKey St., Ocoee HOURS: 5 to 9 p.m., Wednesdays and Thursdays; 5 p.m. to midnight, Fridays; 11 a.m. to midnight, Saturdays; and 1 to 7 p.m., Sundays FACEBOOK: facebook.com/ tollroadbrewing

GABBY BAQUERO NEWS EDITOR OCOEE West Orange soon will be welcoming its second craft brewery, with the addition of Toll Road Brewery Company in Ocoee. The three co-owners of the upcoming brewery, Duane Morin, David Strickland and Russ Balazs, bring 13 years of home-brewing experience with them — the last two of which they’ve been spent tweaking their recipes to perfection with feedback received from beer festivals they have attended. The brewery, which will serve only beer, will be located on West McKey Street. Although originally expected to open in October, delays pushed back the soft opening to mid-December and the grand opening to early next year, Morin said. Although still in the build-out phase, Morin expects the brewery will have a modernized interior look featuring wooden accents and Edison bulb fixtures, and

the taproom will have windows allowing customers to view the equipment within the brewhouse. “There will a portion of the building to the left that will be the actual brewhouse,” Morin said. “There will be a big garage door we’re putting in the front of the building where you’ll be able to see all the brewing equipment and fermentation tanks.” All beer, Morin added, will be brewed in-house, with the exception of ciders, which can’t be brewed in the same building as beer because of the different type of process required. “We’ll have Citra Rye IPA, a pale ale, a porter, a peanut-butterand-chocolate porter and a vanilla-and-coffee-cream ale, which has been very popular,” Morin said. “And we’ve been brewing all these beers the last two years that we’ve been attending beer festivals, so we’ve been getting a lot of feedback from people and really working on these recipes. I think we’ve got a pretty good core

Courtesy photo

Ocoee residents Russ Balazs, Duane Morin and David Strickland are the co-owners behind the upcoming Toll Road Brewery in Ocoee.

group of five or six beers, and the other three or four will be rotating experiments in different styles, and then the two ciders from our guest taps.” The various beer options have been a work in progress for the past few years, but it wasn’t until Morin started visiting San Diego on a routine basis and observing all the successful microbreweries there that he began seriously considering the idea of opening a brick-and-mortar location. “I always thought about it, but then for the past two years, I started thinking maybe this is really something we could do,” he said. “We really concentrate on the brewing — that’s the main thing. You have to make good beer in order to sell something people want to buy. So we focused on the brewing and getting as much feedback as possible from the festivals to make sure that people would like it and would buy it. That’s how it all got started, we just figured we could see where it went.” The name, Toll Road Brew-

WHAT IS CRAFT BEER? Craft beer uses higher-quality base malts that are made from more expensive barley to make it more flavorful. Usually, craft brewers design the beers for patrons who prefer quality over quantity and thus produce their beer locally in small batches. Craft beers also are created based on inspiration, as opposed to market research — a tactic that larger breweries typically use before introducing new beers.

ing Company, came to the trio of entrepreneurs after considering how main toll roads in the Orlando area — the 408, turnpike and 429 — have an exit in Ocoee. “We know there’s a lot of good things coming to Ocoee with their downtown redevelopment, so we thought it would be good to get on the ground floor of that project and be a part of that whole growth, Morin said. “But mainly because we live here; it’s our hometown.”

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WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

Mary Ann McCraw McMillan, age 93, Winter Garden, Florida, passed away peacefully at home Tuesday, Oct. 10, 2017. Born in 1924 in Fayette County, Tennessee, she graduated from Texas State College for Women in 1946 and was a processed-food inspector for the USDA. She later shared her talent for sewing as an instructor at Westside Technical College for 35 years. She was also a volunteer for Meals On Wheels and Adult Literacy. Mary Ann was married to Charles Wesley McMillan, of Winter Garden, for 56 years. She

was preceded in death by her husband and by her son, Charles Wesley McMillan Jr. She is survived by her two daughters, Mary Beth (Bill) Asma, Winter Garden, and Janet (Charles) Alford, Vero Beach; and three beloved grandchildren, Nick (Ansley) Asma, Winter Garden, Neil (Sarah) Asma, Orlando, and Dina Asma, Charlotte.

She was a loyal member of the First United Methodist Church of Winter Garden. She was a great gardener and talented floral designer and long-standing member of the Bloom & Grow Garden Society. She was a Magic fan and was well known for her guava jelly. A memorial service was held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 17, at First United Methodist Church, Winter Garden. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made to the church or the Winter Garden Heritage Foundation. Arrangements entrusted to Baldwin Fairchild Funeral Home, Winter Garden, baldwinfairchild.com.

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MARY ANN MCCRAW MCMILLAN DIED TUESDAY, OCT. 10, 2017.

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CHURCH DIRECTORY BAPTIST

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 PO Box 521, 611 W Ave, Ocoee Pastor Jeff Pritchard (407) 656-2351 www.starkelakebaptist.org

CHURCH OF GOD

OCOEE CHURCH OF GOD Pastor Thomas Odom 1105 N. Lakewood Avenue, Ocoee 407-656-8011

EPISCOPAL

CHURCH OF THE MESSIAH 241 N. Main, Winter Garden Services: 8, 9:30, & 11am, 7pm www.churchofthemessiah.com CHURCH OF THE ASCENSION 4950 S. Apopka-Vineland Rd. Orlando Sun.Serv 8:30am, 10:30am, 5:30pm. 407-876-3480 www.ascension-orlando.org

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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

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

Advertise your Services or Events on this page weekly. This page appears weekly in the West Orange Times & Observer and online at wotimes.com. To advertise in the Church Directory call 407-656-2121 or email sfelt@wotimes.com

NON-DENOMINATIONAL PURPOSE CHURCH ORLANDO 13640 W. Colonial Dr., Ste 110, Winter Garden 407-654-9661 • Prayer 9:30AM, Fellowship 9:45AM, Service 10:05AM HAVEN OF GRACE BIBLE CHURCH 13520 Foxcrest Blvd. Winter Garden, FL 34787 Services 9:30 and 10:30AM 407-952-0510

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SPORTS

Foundation Academy’s Macey Wise brings leadership, performance to Lions volleyball team. Page 22.

The Ocoee boys bowling team improved to 10-2 Oct. 11 with a 2,371-2,257 win over Trinity Prep. Hunter Colburn led the way for the Knights with a 217 game.

In the Metro Conference West Boys Cross-Country Championships Oct. 14, West Orange placed third, and Ocoee placed ninth. West Orange’s Nicholas Miller placed fifth wit ha time of 17:40.3. Dr. Phillips placed first as a team.

In the Metro Conference West Girls Cross Country Championships Oct. 14, West Orange placed fifth, and Ocoee placed seventh. Dr. Phillips placed first as a team.

The Foundation Academy volleyball team defeated Real Life Academy 3-1 (25-20, 25-21, 11-25, 25-22) Oct. 12. Anna-Grace Williams had 11 kills, six aces and 12 digs in the victory.

Steven Ryzewski

Nemea Hall’s crucial run for a first down late in the game allowed the Warriors to run out the clock for the win.

STATEMENT

MADE The West Orange football team’s 31-27 upset win over Apopka last week means the Warriors’ strong showings in earlier losses against 2016 playoff teams were no fluke. STEVEN RYZEWSKI SENIOR SPORTS EDITOR

File photo

In a quad-meet Oct. 11 between boys golf teams from West Orange, Windermere, Dr. Phillips and Olympia, the Panthers placed first with a team score of 157. Olympia was second (160), and West Orange and Windermere tied for third with 169. Dylan Bittenbender shot a 40 for the Warriors at the event, which took place at Tranquilo.

ll season long, the West Orange football team has been making the case that not only had it shed the stigma of its 2-8 season in 2016, but also that it was better even than its record indicated this fall. The Warriors — 3-4 entering last week’s district showdown with their No. 1 rival, the Apopka Blue Darters — had been flirting with the prospect of scoring a statement victory.

In losses to Olympia, Dr. Phillips, Wekiva and Jones — all of which were playoff teams in 2016 and three of which are considered serious state-title contenders in 2017 — coach Bob Head’s team has been in the vicinity of a momentum-building win since the season's first whistle. West Orange either led at some point, had a chance to tie or a chance to win in each of those games. Quietly, the Warriors have been making the case they could play

with anybody — but there was nothing quiet about what they did Oct. 13. Scheduled as the Homecoming opponent for the rival Blue Darters, the Warriors went in and defeated Apopka 31-27, scoring arguably the biggest upset of the season in Central Florida and keeping their own playoff hopes alive. “We felt like we’ve been knocking at the door,” Head said. “We’ve had a chance to win every game, and so we kept telling ourselves, ‘We can put it together — we can beat a good team.’ … It’s really a signature win for this season.” West Orange (4-4,1-1 in district) went ahead for good with eight minutes remaining on a touchdown pass from Elijah Stimmell to Keyshawn Goins, capping what had been a backand-forth affair. Through five lead changes and rain that came and went throughout the evening, Warriors receiver Darrell Harding stood out, scoring two touchdowns — one of which came on a pivotal kickoff return — and serving as the offense’s most reliable target. Sophomore running back Nemea Hall scored a touchdown in the second quarter and later sealed the win for the Warriors in the game's waning moments when he rushed for a first down that allowed West Orange to run out the clock. Stimmell, who only won the starting quarterback job last week, was poised in leading his team down the field on the drive that ended in his touchdown toss to Goins — a drive that started at the Warriors’ own two-yard line. The transfer from Foundation Academy had two touchdown passes on the night. West Orange's defense, of course, earned praised from its head coach, too. While Apopka's Akeem Brown rushed for nearly 300 yards, the Warriors consistently got stops when they had to, forcing and recovering a late fumble that helped end the Blue Darters' (6-2, 1-1 district) last push. With the win, the Warriors could finish in a three-way tieSEE STATEMENT PAGE 22

Standout middle blocker a star in classroom, too West Orange volleyball’s Blake Hollis is a dominant presence at the net and has a 4.6 GPA. STEVEN RYZEWSKI SENIOR SPORTS EDITOR

It’s not at all uncommon to see Blake Hollis buried in a book or hard at work on her laptop before a West Orange volleyball game. Especially for road games, when the varsity players have to wait through the freshmen and junior-varsity games, that time can be a crucial window within which to get things done. After all, when you’re a senior middle blocker for a nationally

ranked volleyball team, a standout student with a 4.6 GPA who can fluently speak Chinese, a tutor at Mathnasium and regularly volunteering at the Boys & Girls Club, every free moment counts. “I balance it all by putting stuff on my calendar and really focusing on my time management,” said Hollis who, at age 16, is a high-school senior. “I just have a lot of support from my mom and my family. … Whenever I have time to do work or study, I really try to take advantage of it.” The oldest of four sisters, Hollis has been impressing in the classroom for a decade, but her success on the volleyball court came more recently. Formerly a dedicated basketball player, she picked up volleyball beginning the summer before her sophomore year at

Montverde Academy, her previous school. Within that time, Hollis — who transferred to West Orange as a junior — has picked up the game with ease, capitalizing on a natural athleticism and rounding out an incredibly dynamic attack for the Warriors. “She’s a freak of an athlete, being able to do what she does,” West Orange head coach Ross Usie said. “We’ve never really had a dominant middle at West Orange, but she’s almost unstoppable.” Unstoppable on the court and, as Usie has come to learn, perhaps more so off of it. “Over the years, you find out how smart she is and what she’s SEE HOLLIS PAGE 22

Steven Ryzewski

West Orange senior Blake Hollis said time management is key to balancing her responsibilities as a student, an athlete, a volunteer and a big sister.

SPORTS SPOTLIGHT

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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2017