11.16.17 Windermere Observer by Orange Observer

WINDERMERE

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VOLUME 3, NO. 6

IDE GIFT GUS EA 017 WINTER 2

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THE OB

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2017

INGS GOOD TID GUIDE TO SERVER’S

THE OB SERV

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IN THIS ISSUE

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2017

Boot scootin’ boogie Edgewood Children’s Ranch saddled up for its annual dinner auction. SEE PAGE 7.

YOUR TOWN

Windermere considering public building improvements

FOUNDATION ANNOUNCES GRANTS The newly formed West Orange Foundation held its inaugural reception Oct. 12 at Lake Meadow Naturals in Ocoee. At the event, the foundation presented the recipients of the 2017-18 West Orange Committee of 101 (C101) grant awards. C101 member fund donations are distributed as grants to organizations that fit the mission of the West Orange Foundation and improve the community. This year’s grants were awarded to Boys & Girls Club of Central Florida, Bread of Life Fellowship, West Orange Christian Service Center, Community Based Care of Central Florida, Edgewood Children’s Ranch, HapCo, Matthew’s Hope, Oakland Nature Preserve, Shepherd’s Hope and Women in the Arts Inc.

The complex housing the police department and town government offices, although historic, are in disrepair. GABBY BAQUERO NEWS EDITOR

Town staff has received the results of an independent evaluation made of the town’s police department and town government offices. And the results aren’t pretty. The evaluation, conducted by Winter Park-based Architects Design Group, outlined the numerous building deficiencies and employee safety hazards of the three historic buildings that house the Windermere Police Department, town administration building and Public Works facility. SEE REPORT PAGE 4

SPORTS

WALK WILL BENEFIT VETERANS

FLOATING PHENOMS

Troy Herring

Erika Lang pulled off a huge backflip during the trick competition portion of the 2017 King of Darkness waterski tournament. For more photos, see page 10.

Anyone interested in helping veterans should consider participating in the Challenge 22 5K Silkies Ruck Walk. This year’s event begins with registration at 7:30 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 18, at Hugh T. Gregory American Legion Post 63, 271 W. Plant St., Winter Garden. A noon lunch, activities and music will follow the walk. Proceeds will benefit Project: VetRelief, an organization that offers assistance to military veterans with PTSD and depression. For more, call (407) 656-6361.

Izziban arrives in MetroWest Windermere Prep punches ticked to SSAC Florida Bowl.

PAGE 15 PRSRT STD ECRWSS US POSTAGE PAID WINTER GARDEN, FL PERMIT NO. 81

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The Korean barbecue restaurant opened its doors along Piazza Grande. TIM FREED ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Ready to cook up something new? Izziban has arrived in the Metro West area. The Korean barbecue recently opened its doors with a grand opening on Oct. 22, at 6996 Piazza Grande Ave.

Izziban hopes to bring Korean barbecue to the forefront in the Orlando area — and MetroWest is the latest stop, spokesperson Isaac Choe said. “We realize that there isn’t much Korean cuisine in Orlando,” he said. “All the Korean cuisine that Orlando does have to offer doesn’t really encompass the whole package of what Korean barbecue can be. “A lot of places will charge per Bruce Nguyen

SEE IZZIBAN PAGE 4

Izziban celebrated the grand opening of its MetroWest location last month.

WINDERMERE OBSERVER

THURSDAY, NOV. 16

YOUR CALENDAR

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2017

FRIDAY, NOV. 17

CHAMBER BUSINESS AFTER HOURS 5:30 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 16, in the atrium lobby of Orlando Health Dr. P. Phillips Hospital, 9400 Turkey Lake Road, Orlando. Chamber member cost is $5 in advance and $10 at the door; non-member rate is $25. Join business professionals in this joint reception for the West Orange and HispanicMetro Orlando chambers of commerce. (407) 656-1304.

GROOVE AT THE GROVE 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, Nov. 17, at The Grove Orlando, 4744 S. ApopkaVineland Road, Orlando. This event will feature music by Andy & The Rollables, and Game Truck Orlando will be on-site. For more, visit thegroveorlando.com. LIGHT UP WINDERMERE/ FAMILY FOOD TRUCK NIGHT 5 p.m. Friday, Nov. 17, at 520 Main St., Windermere. For more, visit town.windermere.fl.us.

SATURDAY, NOV. 18

DIY DREAMCATCHERS 3:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 16, at the Windermere Library, 530 Main St. Have a good night and sweet dreams always by creating your very own dreamcatcher. Stick around to learn where they came from and what your dreams may really mean. Ages 8 to 18. (407) 835-7323.

LIFEBRIDGE CHURCH SERVE DAY 8 a.m. to noon Saturday, Nov. 18, at Lifebridge Church, 12120 Chase Road, Windermere. Serve Day is an opportunity to serve the community while building the Christian faith. For more, visit lifebridgechurch.org.

ORLANDO/DR. PHILLIPS YMCA 5/10K WALK 8:30 to 10 a.m. registration Saturday, Nov. 18, at the Dr. P. Phillips YMCA, 7000 Dr. Phillips Blvd., Orlando. Join the MidFlorida Milers Walking Club for either a 5K or 10K trail. The walk route will go into residential areas north of the YMCA and past Bay Hill Club. The trail accommodates strollers and wheelchairs. Pets are allowed on a leash. Always carry water. The event is free for non-credit walkers; those maintaining record books pay $3. midfloridamilers.org.

SUNDAY, NOV. 19

FLORIDA HOSPITAL GOLDEN GALA XXXVII Noon to 11 p.m. Sunday and Monday, Nov. 19 and 20, at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort and Grand Cypress Golf Club, 1000 W. Buena Vista Drive,

Orlando. For more information, contact Jami Smith at (407) 303-9586 or jami.smith@ FLHosp.org.

MONDAY, NOV. 20

BLOOM & GROW’S STEPPIN’ OUT 4 to 7 p.m. Monday, Nov. 20, at Tanner Hall, 29 W. Garden Ave., Winter Garden. The Bloom & Grow Garden Society is hosting an afternoon of shopping from various vendors. Complimentary wine and snacks will be available. (407) 656-4796. GOBBLE GOBBLE WIBBLE WOBBLE 10:30 a.m. Monday, Nov. 20, at the Windermere Library, 530 Main St. Preschoolers, trot into the library for a turkey feast, stories and turkey activities and crafts. Ages 3 to 5. (407) 835-7323.

TUESDAY, NOV. 21

SOUTHWEST BOOK CLUB 7 to 8:45 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 21, at the Southwest Library, 7255 Della Drive, Orlando. (407) 8357323.

THURSDAY, NOV. 23

GOBBLE WOBBLE 2017 8 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 23, at 56 W. Plant St., Winter Garden. Tri & Run of West Orange is hosting a fundraiser on Thanksgiving Day benefiting two local charities — Winter Garden Heritage Foundation and Matthew’s Hope Ministries. The morning activities will include a 40-minute workout for runners and walkers. Event T-shirts will be available to the first 300 participants, and entry is a donation of $15. Post-workout beverages provided. Sponsored by Orlando Health — Health Central Hospital. Visit gobblewobble2016.itsyourrace.com.

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WINDERMERE OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2017

Windermere Mayor Gary Bruhn welcomed everyone to the event. Left: Lt. Col. Neal Funston saluted the new memorial marker.

Never was so much owed

by so many to so few T Cpl. Ronald Barnes stood in salute as the band played the Marine Corps Hymn.

he town of Windermere unveiled its Veterans Memorial Saturday, Nov. 11, during its Veterans Day ceremony. The memorial, located in front of Town Hall, features six columns showcasing the five branches of the military and the United States Seal. In addition to the dedication ceremony, attendees enjoyed a walk through the town, hot dogs and hamburgers, live music and kid-friendly activities. — BRITTANY GAINES

Veterans in the crowd stood as their branch’s anthem was played.

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Firefighter William Dugger unveiled and saluted the U.S. Coast Guard memorial marker.

Hank Layton tried doing pull-ups and managed to do 10.

See more photos at OrangeObserver.com

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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2017

Report released CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

Situated in the Windermere Municipal Complex off Main Street and Sixth Avenue, the buildings, constructed in the early 1900s, don’t satisfy modernday standards required of public facilities. According to the report prepared by ADG, which chiefly focused on assessing the future spatial needs for the police and town administration buildings, the complex lacks sufficient parking and the buildings lack adequate restroom facilities, proper security measures and foundations, wall and roof insulation, energy-efficient windows and essential structural requirements needed to safely withstand natural disasters. In addition, the buildings have suffered from rampant rodent infestations that have resulted in animal feces throughout the facilities, which endanger employee safety, the report said. Windermere Mayor Gary Bruhn recalled having previously shut down the rear building for two to three months for fumigation. However, he maintains the town has done all it can to keep any danger incurred by improper air ventilation and the presence of animal feces to a minimum. “We’ve done an analysis of the air quality to see if there’s any endangerment to the safety and well-being of the employees because we wouldn’t put them through that,” Bruhn said. “So we’ve tried to do what we could, and we’ve gone forward and remediated the issues with the ducts in the air conditioning and all that. But I still think, all in all, we definitely do need to move forward and figure out what the plan is.” The Town Council is considering three options recommended per ADG regarding potential sites to house the town’s government offices and police department that would allow more square footage and modern renovations. The report stated that with the current 8,352-square-foot Windermere Municipal Center, the town’s employees are operating within a space that is only 47% of what is needed — an estimated 13,581 square feet. The report suggests the town will need about 15,505 square feet of space to house both its town government offices and the police department by the year 2037. The report, discussed during a public meeting Wednesday, Nov. 15, will not be voted on until the town holds several public workshops on the matter. “I’d like to hear what the people are thinking and what direction they’d like to go,” Bruhn said. “I

platter for the amount of meat that you want to have,” he said. “For us, we’re more focused on the social aspect of it. Korean barbecue is something you can do to break the ice with a date or with family — it helps give the table something to do in-between chit chat.” Izziban customers have a chance to use a grill built inside their table — ordering different proteins like spicy marinated pork, chicken and wine pork belly to cook to their liking. There’s also an extensive side dish and salad bar, as well as a selection of sushi.

Observer

SITE OPTIONS

“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.”

OPTION A-1: Construct a new one-story town administration/police facility and a new one-story Public Works facility on the current site. A new two-bay fire station would be constructed on a site located on Fifth Avenue (adjacent to where the basketball courts are presently located).

Friedrich Hayek “Road to Serfdom,” 1944 Publisher / Dawn Willis, dwillis@OrangeObserver.com Executive Editor / Michael Eng, meng@OrangeObserver.com

OPTION A-2: Construct a new one-story Public Works facility on the current site and a new one-story town administration/police facility on a site located on Fifth Avenue (adjacent to where the basketball courts are presently located). No fire station is included in this option.

Design Editor / Jessica Eng, jeng@OrangeObserver.com Senior Sports Editor / Steven Ryzewski, sryzewski@OrangeObserver.com News Editor / Gabby Baquero, gbaquero@OrangeObserver.com Community Editor / Amy Quesinberry, amyq@OrangeObserver.com Black Tie Editor / Danielle Hendrix, dhendrix@OrangeObserver.com Staff Writer / Brittany Gaines,

OPTION B-1: Construct a new one-story Public Works facility on its current site and a new one-story town administration/police facility on the prospective Manors property site. This option would allow for one of the two softball fields existing on the privately owned Manors property site to remain, but would require the town to purchase and rezone the property. OPTION B-2: Construct a new one-story Public Works facility on its current site and a new one-story town administration/police facility with a new two-bay fire station component on the prospective Manors property. This option would compromise both softball fields currently existing on the site. OPTION C: Construct a new one-story Public Works facility on the current site and a new one-story town administration/police facility on the prospective Jain property site. A new fire station is not included in this option. This property is privately own and would require the town to purchase and rezone the site. ESTIMATED COSTS OPTION A-1: $9.23 million OPTION A-2: $6.41 million OPTION B-1: $6.72 million OPTION B-2: $9.07 million OPTION C: $8.45 million

would be hesitant to make any decision until all these options have been presented to the people and maybe we could see if they can come up with some ideas that even we haven’t thought about.”

Izziban now open CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

WINDERMERE

And it’s all-you-can-eat, Choe said. “We don’t hold back with the value we give our customers,” he said. “We don’t really try and make money off each individual plate of meat. For us, we’d rather have returning customers who are content with their dinner that will want to come back.” But it’s not just quantity, it’s quality, Choe said. Bulgogi and galbi beef — staples of Korean barbecue — are marinated to perfection, he said. Locations are open until 2 a.m. daily. “We want to announce to the

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

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas A

new club at Dr. Phillips High School is already having an impact in the community. The club, Art with Heart, spent the weekend volunteering to paint a Christmas mural outside of Vintage Realty in downtown Windermere. The mural, painted by five students from Art with Heart, depicts a picture of Santa and his reindeer.

IZZIBAN 6996 Piazza Grande Ave., MetroWest PHONE: (407) 868-9999 HOURS: 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. daily WEBSITE: izzibanrestaurant.com

area that there is a spot for night owls to come enjoy, relax and unwind,” he said. Izziban first opened its original location along Sand Lake Road in 2007 — initially as just a popular sushi stop. The ownership behind Izziban realized there was a need for Korean barbecue in the area, and that’s what they implemented

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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 Junior Estefania Daza helped work on the Christmas mural over the weekend.

— BRITTANY GAINES

IF YOU GO

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) 6562121 or visit our office, 720 S. Dillard St., Winter Garden.

in 2010 to its existing restaurant. They opened a location along East Colonial Drive in 2014. which today includes a Korean dessert cafe within the same space called SnowBean. The MetroWest location is set to get a SnowBean next year as well. Choe said he hopes newcomers will step inside Izziban and be eager to try something new. “Because it’s in MetroWest and it’s close to Dr. Phillips and Winter Garden, we wanted to go along with that area and provide that side of town with something that wasn’t available there before,” Choe said. “If they’re willing to experiment and try to cook their own meat within a safe range of their comfort zone, they’ll be able to try more and get their feet wet.”

The Windermere Observer (USPS 687-120) is published weekly for $40 per year ($50 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.

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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2017

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Sunset Park celebrates 10 years The Horizon West school opened Nov. 7, 2007. Some teachers have been there the entire time.

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OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2017

On Nov. 7, 2007, Orange County Public School officials celebrated the opening and dedication of the new Sunset Park Elementary School. Now, 10 years later, the school is celebrating its 10th anniversary — a milestone that was celebrated by faculty, students and parents Friday, Nov. 10, with a movie night hosted by the ParentTeacher Organization. “It’s just an amazing organization, and I feel very lucky to be here,” said Principal Janet Bittick. Several faculty members have been at the school since its opening and remember what it was like that first year, including secondgrade teacher Jacqueline Hool. “Being part of the opening staff at a school 10 years ago was exciting,” Hool said. “You felt the positivity, motivation and the desire to set the educational bar high among all of the staff. It truly was a memorable experience.” After that first year, Hool said she fell in love with teaching at Sunset Park. “Making the decision to come back year after year is easy when you teach at Sunset Park Elementary,” she said. “We have amazing teachers, an incredible PTO who take extremely good care of us, and I have the opportunity to HORIZON WEST

Brittany Gaines

Lainey Miller got a balloon wand filled with colorful confetti from the balloon station at Sunset Park Elementary’s recent Fall Festival.

teach children who want to strive for excellence.” During the last decade, Sunset Park faced overcrowding issues. In the 2014-15 school year, its population reached 1,300 students. However, following the opening of Independence Elementary in 2015 and Bay Lake Elementary in 2016, the school reached a more manageable student body of about 860 students. “We’re a nice size now and holding steady,” Bittick said. Despite the challenges of overcrowding, the kept an “A” rating for its 10 years of operation.

For Hool, the best thing about the school is the camaraderie between teachers and parents. “My favorite thing about Sunset Park is the feeling of fellowship with the staff and the families of the community,” she said. “I have been around long enough to teach multiple siblings, and I have developed wonderful relationships with these families. Teachers and parents have the same goal every year and that is to make their child as successful as possible, and when we can work together to make that happen, it’s a beautiful thing.”

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ALSO INSIDE: Orlando Museum of Art: Festival of Trees. 9 Second Harvest Food Bank: Holiday Fashion Event. ONLINE

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ORANGEOBSERVER.COM

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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2017

COWBOY UP! Guests at Bonny and John Elder’s table loved dressing up in Western attire.

Edgewood Children’s Ranch staffers Joan Bailey and Kimberly Vinson were pleased with the event’s turnout.

John and Hellen Crescenti and Michele and Jeffrey Fitch enjoyed the evening.

Josh Sachs, Melanie Sachs and Marla Sachs rocked the plaid and cowboy hats.

Carol and Scott Fosgate and Kari Fleck chatted during cocktail hour.

uests donned their plaid shirts, cowboy boots and hats for a good cause Friday, Nov. 10, as they showed their support for the Edgewood Children’s Ranch during its 35th annual Country Round-up Dinner and Auction. Held at the Gaylord Palms Resort, the country-themed event serves as a fun and casual gettogether for guests who come to support and help raise funds for the ranch. The ranch is a residential facility for young boys and girls who exhibit negative social behavior because of family circumstances, and gives them the tools and loving care needed to change the direction of their lives. — DANIELLE HENDRIX

Rob and Suzanne Maphis chatted with Keith Bradford.

ONLINE See more at OrangeObserver.com

WINDERMERE OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2017

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Please send resume and cover letter to: Dawn Willis 720 S. Dillard St. Winter Garden, Fl 34787 jobs@yourobserver.com

Be a part of our success. Join the Observer’s multimedia advertising team. 257407

WINDERMERE OBSERVER

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2017

CROSS COUNTRY PRINTMAKING & CERAMICS FAITH & SERVICE

Orlando Museum of Art

Festival of Trees

VOLUNTEER

BLACK

TIE

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It took Dicky Stegall more than two months to find all the materials for her tree. She made it in honor of her father.

Co-chairs Debbie Clancy and Paula Kennedy were proud of all the work that was put into the festival.

he Orlando Museum of Art was filled with holiday cheer during its Festival of Trees Gala Friday, Nov. 10. The 31st annual event, held by the Council of 101, was themed “The Gift of the Holidays.” Guests ate and drank in the company of lavishly designed Christmas trees, as well as sparkling ornaments that lined the museum walls. One of the wings was home to the Gingerbread Village, a collection gingerbread houses from local pastry chefs. All proceeds from the event went to the Orlando Museum of Art.

PHOTOGRAPHY

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Please join us at Open House for grades 6-12 on Nov. 15 or Dec. 8 to learn how your children can belong to a community that encourages and guides them to achieve excellence. We look forward to having you on campus! Register to attend at trinityprep.org/joinus – 321-282-2515

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ONLINE

See more photos at OrangeObserver.com

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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2017

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Daniel Roberts, center, enjoyed a boat ride during this year’s King of Darkness.

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orizon West welcomed some of the best water-skiers from the area and around the world to compete in the King of Darkness waterski tournament Saturday, Nov. 4, at the Isles of Lake Hancock. Visitors lined up along the waterside as they watched athletes compete in a series of events, including: the slalom, trick competition, men’s and women’s long jump and under-23 competitions. Along with the competition on the water, visitors enjoyed a variety of food trucks, live music and children’s activities. The night included the appearance of Daniel Roberts, 10, who participated as the guest of honor for the event, while also representing the nonprofit Runway to Hope. Roberts, who was diagnosed with osteosarcoma in February, enjoyed a night out on the water and his time hanging out in the commentator’s booth.

Nate Smith flew on top of the water during the slalom competition.

Dorien Llewellyn went horizontal as he finished off a trick during competition at this year’s tournament.

— TROY HERRING

ONLINE

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Students bring the fanfare to Windermere High’s first parade

indermere High School students showed off their school spirit on Thursday, Nov. 2, as they marched along Bridgewater Crossings Boulevard in the school’s first parade. The band led the parade with fanfare, with several student clubs and organizations marching behind, including members of the Student Government Association, the Student Political Action Committee, Best Buddies and the dance team. Students waved to the crowd along the parade route.

— BRITTANY GAINES

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2017

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Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 am to 5 pm Saturday, 8 am to 4 pm. Closed Sunday

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Join us in congratulating Dr. David Boers for being voted TOP DENTIST in Windermere 2016 by Orlando Family Magazine

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The parade began at Keene’s Crossing Elementary School and worked its way down Bridgewater Crossings Boulevard before ending at 33 & Melt.

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Left: Members of the dancer team cheered as they walked along the parade route.

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Members of the Homecoming Court tossed candy to the crowds as they rode in the parade.

JOSH RECOMMENDS

WINDERMERE OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2017

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.

Mays Musical Harvest: A Concert in Thanks will take place at 4 p.m. Nov. 19.

MAYS MUSICAL HARVEST: A CONCERT IN THANKS

‘BORN YESTERDAY’ AT THE MAD COW THEATRE

Nov. 17 to Dec. 17. Although we know the plays to be produced in any given season by our major producing companies are decided (at least) a year in advance, “Born Yesterday,” at the Mad Cow Theatre, is so perfect for today that its choice is brilliant in its timeliness. This hilarious/serious comedy, written in 1946, offers biting commentary on politics and “persuasion” in Washington, D.C. A Broadway favorite in revivals since its premiere, this comedywith-a-message pokes fun at “back-room” politics, sex, political “contributions” and billionaires who think they know what’s best for the country just because they can “buy their way in.” You will love this show! Call (407) 297-8788 or visit madcowtheatre.com.

4 p.m. Nov. 19. Devoted to helping young people advance through music, the sheer number of MAYS orchestras and ensembles requires a handbook to let the young musicians know about rehearsals in Lake County and Orlando. There are ensembles named Symphony, Repertory, Intermezzo, Concertino, Chamber Symphony, Lyric Consort and String Explorers. The symphony is the MAYS’ most advanced ensemble, and this group is continually challenged to reach for the finest in orchestral performance. On Nov. 19, the young performers of the Metropolitan Area Youth Symphony invite us to begin the holiday season with a “Concert in Thanks.” This concert is perfect for all ages and offers an uplifting performance of classical music favorites including the “New World Symphony,” works by Aaron Copland, and others. At 5700 Trinity Prep Lane in Winter Park. Admission is free (with $5 suggested donation). Call (407) 761-5170 or visit maysymphony.org.

MARC ANTHONY’S “FULL CIRCLE TOUR”

7 p.m. Nov. 19. Marc Anthony, born in New York City, is the American singer, songwriter, actor and record producer who is also the top selling salsa artist of all time. The two-time Grammy Award and five-time Latin Grammy Award winner has sold more than 12 million albums worldwide – on top of a host of other awards. The tour is titled “Full Circle,” which communicates Marc Anthony’s desire to offer his fans a truly special experience. Featuring hits from throughout his career along with some of his favorite songs, there’s going to be a lot of “reaching out and touching” Nov. 19 at the Amway Center. That kind of communication is an art in itself. Call (407) 440-7900 or visit amwaycenter.com.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2017

ANDREW LLOYD WEBBER’S “LOVE NEVER DIES: THE PHANTOM RETURNS”

HANDEL’S MESSIAH

Nov. 21 to 26. They call it the “ultimate love story,” as Andrew Lloyd Webber presents his sequel to “The Phantom of the Opera.” The original “Phantom,” one of the most successful musicals of all time, has been seen by more than 130 million people worldwide. Soon “Love Never Dies: The Phantom Returns” will spend a week at the Dr. Phillips Center. The sequel takes place in 1907 — 10 years after the Phantom’s disappearance from the Paris Opera House. We learn the Phantom has escaped to a new life in New York among the freak shows of Coney Island. I would not miss the sequel, and I sincerely hope that there will be moments of the “beautiful; sometimes magical and poetic music” of the original, but it finds its place here — with my recommendation based on the fact that it is the sequel to one of my all-time favorites. Please join me. We’ll be thrilled — or not — together. For tickets, call 844-513-2014 or visit drphillipscenter.org.

3 p.m. Nov. 26. One of the wonders of Central Florida’s holiday season is the annual performance of Handel’s Messiah by the Messiah Choral Society. Open for all singers to participate, each year the group raises the funds necessary to provide a professional level performance to the public. Universally recognized as one of the finest and most popular classical music works ever written, this presentation is truly priceless — it’s free. More than 40 years ago, Bill Jarvis, a prominent Orlando music director, formed the society with the philosophy that the Messiah was worthy of a group dedicated solely to its performance. His vision continues to inspire the ‘society’ to perform this magnificent oratorio annually as a gift to the community. No tickets required at the Bob Carr Theater, 401 W. Livingston St., Orlando. Note: the ensemble asks that you help feed the hungry by bringing non-perishable food items to the performance. Also, plan extra time for parking because of road work. Visit messiahchoralsociety.org.

Celebrating 20 Years!

2017

NEW BOOKS PLEASE!

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Now thru December 9th

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Special finisher awards will be given to all 5K finishers and Fun Run participants!

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OrangeObserver.com

A modern take on ‘Little Women’ Winter Garden resident Laura Schaefer recently published “Littler Women: A Modern Retelling.”

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Laura Schaefer,was selected by her publisher to create a modern version of “Little Women” for younger children. Her book can be found at Barnes and Noble, Target and amazon.com.

in my book, she’s kind of funny,” Schaefer said. In addition to creating a modern story of “Little Women,” Schaefer added recipes and craft projects at the end of each chapter. As “Little Women” is set to celebrate its 150th anniversary in 2018, Schaefer said it’s time to let “Little Women” have its moment in the spotlight. “Jane Austen is so part of our culture, and ‘Pride and Prejudice’ is so huge, but now it’s time for ‘Little Women’ to have that,” Schaefer said.

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Laura Schaefer never imagined rewriting a literary classic, but when her publisher called with a pitch, she knew she couldn’t turn down the opportunity. Her book, “Littler Women,” is a retelling of the classic novel by Louisa May Alcott — with a modern twist. “It was a huge honor to get that call,” said Schaefer, who lives in Winter Garden. “I was extremely excited. My hope is that if readers read ‘Littler Women,’ they’ll be drawn to the original.” After writing two books published though Simon and Schuster for elementary- and middleschool-age children, Schaefer knew she could write a version of “Little Women” for that age group. “The idea was to make the story accessible to young readers,” Schaefer said. For Schaefer, the timing for this book was perfect. “I didn’t know what I was doing with my writing career, so I needed that push,” she said. Before she started writing, she first re-read the original to determine what would work for her retelling. It didn’t take long for her to decide to focus on the fun whimsy of the first half of the book rather than the deeper and sadder second half. From there, she began outlining the book chapter by chapter. “It was like a real fun puzzle,”

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The West Orange Chamber of Commerce presents

Celebrating Extraordinary Women

An evening of cocktails and conversation November 28 • 5:45-8:00pm • Crystal Ballroom

Participating Sponsor:

Event Sponsors: Florida Hospital Pammie's Sammies Winter Garden Heritage Foundation

This is your opportunity to meet some of our area's leading women, with plenty of time for cocktails and conversation. Join us November 28 at Crystal Ballroom for our latest Celebrating Extraordinary Women event! Attendees will enjoy getting to know each of our featured guests in this engaging, "round-robin" style event. Featured speakers include:

Linda Landman Gonzalez, Orlando Magic Maritza Martinez, University of Central Florida Tiffany Moore Russell, Orange County Clerk of Courts Diane O'Dell, Universal Orlando Resort Kay Rawlins, Orlando City Soccer Club Tickets available at wochamber.com. Chamber member advance rate: $36 Non-member & at the door rate: $46

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Schaefer said. One of the easiest parts of writing “Littler Women” was piecing together the relationship between Jo and Laurie, Schaefer said. “I love writing dialogue, and I found that easy to write, because there’s a lot of fondness there,” she said. “I found it easy to make them sweet without making it flirty.” On the other hand, the most challenging chapter was adapting Beth’s illness with scarlet fever. “In this day and age, if a child gets sick, they go the the emergency room,” Schaefer said. “I wanted the emotion to be there, but not the scene of her hooked up to equipment in the ER.” So instead, Schaefer gave Beth the flu — a more modern and manageable illness than scarlet fever, she said. Schaefer spent the summer of 2016 writing “Littler Women.” She had a daily goal of writing 1,000 words, which aided in her mission of completing the book by the end of the summer, she said. Although it only took a few months to write, the editing and publishing process took a year to complete before the book could be released. Of all the characters in her book, her favorite is Jo. “You’ve got to love Jo,” Schaefer said. “Jo is the character who kind of sparkles. She’s so fierce.” But what surprised Schaefer was her fondness for Amy — one of the least popular characters in “Little Women.” “I ended up liking Amy, because

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Johnny Wild and the Delights played the gazebo Friday, Nov. 10, to kick off this year’s MusicFest.

usicians performing in a variety of genres took over downtown Winter Garden Saturday, Nov. 11, for the 2017 MusicFest. This year’s MusicFest, reformatted to a one-day event, featured more than 25 different groups performing on stages throughout downtown. Headliners on the main stage included Come Back Alice, The Jonnie Morgan Band, Thomas Wynn and the Believers, The Sh-Booms, Beebs and Her Money Makers, and Switch.

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The Orlando-based Jonnie Morgan Band, currently working on its fourth album, was one of the bands at the Winter Garden MusicFest.

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CHURCH DIRECTORY

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Advertise your Services or Events on this page weekly.

This page appears weekly in the Windermere Observer and online at orangeobserver.com.

To advertise in the Church Directory call 407-656-2121 or email AdvertiseNow@orangeobserver.com

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Lakers return to SSAC Florida Bowl Windermere Preparatory School beat Orangewood Christian 35-18 Nov. 11 in the SSAC Semifinals. STEVEN RYZEWSKI SENIOR SPORTS EDITOR

The saying goes, “It’s tough to beat a good team twice.” In 2016, it was something the Windermere Prep football team confronted firsthand — after defeating St. Edward’s in the regular season, the Lakers were defeated by that same squad in

OCOEE

Steven Ryzewski

Blake Stillwell scored a touchdown and had an interception in the SSAC Semifinals Nov. 11.

IF YOU GO SSAC FLORIDA BOWL Windermere Prep (10-0) vs. St. Stephen’s Episcopal (10-0) WHEN: 7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 18 WHERE: The Master’s Academy, 1500 Lukas Lane, Oviedo

the in third round of the Sunshine State Athletic Conference Playoffs.

Then, an opportunity for déjà vu in 2017 presented itself when the Lakers hosted the Orangewood Christian Rams — whom they had defeated 47-20 in midOctober — in the SSAC Semifinals last Saturday at Ocoee Bulldog Field. But after a slower-than-usual start for Windermere Prep — the Lakers had just two scores at halftime, leading 14-8 — the home team turned it up a notch in the second half en route to a 35-18 victory. With the win, the Lakers (10-

HIGH

SPORTS

Windermere High’s Cali Harney was one of four Wolverine swimmers to make it to state as an individual. Page 16.

SEE BOWL PAGE 16

The West Orange volleyball team (28-0) will face Palm Beach Gardens (26-1) in the FHSAA Class 9A State Championship at 7 p.m. Nov. 18 in Jacksonville.

STATE CHAMPS!

Courtesy photo

Congratulations to the girls golf team from The First Academy for winning the FHSAA Class 1A Team State Championship Nov. 8 at Mission Inn in Howey-in-the-Hills. The Royals’ team score of 565 over the two-day event bested the Class 1A Runners-up, Lake Mary Prep, by 24 strokes (589). Additionally, sophomore Ariel Yu placed first as an individual at nine-under-par, and junior Sophie Guo placed second at six-under-par. Senior Emma Zhao tied for sixth at two-under-par, junior Meiyi Yan tied for 19th at six-over-par, and sophomore Taylor Zeng finished tied for 24th place at nine-over-par.

Titans coach bows out after state semifinal defeat With a move to South Florida, Olympia’s state semifinal loss to West Orange Nov. 11 was veteran coach Mitch Sadowsky’s final game. STEVEN RYZEWSKI SENIOR SPORTS EDITOR

Before this fall, Olympia Titans volleyball teams coached by Mitch Sadowsky had reached the regional finals on three occasions and were not quite able to get over

that hump. The Titans got over that hump this fall, making it to the state semifinals for the first time. They did so in what became an appropriate season to do so: After Olympia’s 3-0 loss to West Orange in the state semifinals Nov. 11, Sadowsky announced his nine-year tenure as the Titans’ volleyball coach had come to an end. Laura Sadowsky, his wife and also lead assistant coach, has taken a new career opportunity in South Florida, and the couple is in the process of relocating.

Dr. Phillips senior diver Emmanuel Vazquez placed second at the FHSAA Class 4A Swimming and Diving Championships Nov. 10 in Stuart. Teammate Alex Kaiser, also a senior, placed 10th.

Dr. Phillips senior Isabela Bartczak placed third as an individual at the FHSAA Class 3A Cross Country Championships Nov. 11 in Tallahassee. As a team, the Panthers placed 14th in the girls race. In the boys race, Dr. Phillips senior Luis Ortiz-Quero placed 12th, and the team placed 11th.

Steven Ryzewski

SEE COACH PAGE 16

Swimmers and divers from Olympia High had a strong showing at the FHSAA Class 4A Swimming and Diving Championships last weekend in Stuart. Junior Luke Carey placed third in the boys 50-yard freestyle, and junior Kara Holt placed fourth in the girls diving competition. Freshman Brandon Wegner placed fifth in the boys diving competition, while freshman Billy Turnbull placed eighth. Senior Jonathan Dillon placed eighth in the boys 100-yard butterly. The boys 200-yard freestyle relay team — including Carey, Dillon, Andres Vega and Clay Marsh — placed fourth. The boys 400-yard freestyle relay team — including Dillon, Marsh, Carey and Aidan McConkey — placed eighth. The Olympia boys team placed sixth overall.

Olympia volleyball won 173 games while Mitch Sadowsky was head coach.

Windermere High’s Reef Ide placed fifth in the state in the boys 100 yard butterfly at the FHSAA Class 3A Swimming and Diving Championships.

SPORTS SPOTLIGHT

WINDERMERE OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2017

Coach

SPONSORED BY SHANNON TILLSTATE FARM IN FOWLER GROVES

Cali Harney Cali Harney has been swimming club since she was 8, and now as a sophomore at Windermere High School, she is helping lead the Wolverines in the pool. She placed second in the 100-yard backstroke in the regional meet, earning a place in the state meet as an individual. There, she placed 16th in the state.

What inspired you to swim? I don’t like to sweat, and I don’t like running — and my brother also swam, so that’s how I knew about it — so I asked my parents if I could start swimming. What do you enjoy most about swimming? A big part of it is the people you swim with, and they get you in the mood. The second thing is what you achieve after it. During practice, you hate it sometimes and you go through a lot, but at the end of the day after the meet, you feel good. Even if you don’t do well, you still feel good. Do you have an athlete you admire? Lilly King, she’s an Olympic breaststroker. What’s your favorite race to swim, and what’s your favorite swim stroke? The 100 breast and 200 IM, (and) the breaststroke.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15

“I don’t know if it’s bittersweet — at some point, it was going to come to an end,” Sadowsky said after the state semifinal loss to the Warriors. “To see our girls come together the way they have all season, wherever we lost or finished, I was always really proud of the work that they did.” The game itself, which drew an enthusiastic crowd supporting both sides on a Saturday afternoon, ended in straight sets — but that does not mean the match was without intrigue. A fired-up Olympia squad that initially was down 7-2 in the opening set came back quickly and with a vengeance. The Titans went on a run to take a 21-17 lead, threatening to take the first set and completely change the tone of the match. The Warriors (28-0) battled back, though, and took that opening set — a pivotal point in the match. “Our energy in the first set was really, really good,” Sadowsky said. “When you work that hard, and it goes a little sideways at the end (of the set), it’s really hard to sustain that energy the next two sets. I don’t think there’s anything that we particularly did poorly. I just think West Orange comes at you

THE BASICS AGE: 15 YEAR: Sophomore SCHOOL: Windermere High School HEIGHT: 5-foot-4 CLUB TEAM: Southwest Stars

Favorite food? Probably spaghetti. If you could meet anyone, who would it be? He’s not famous or anything, but he’s my grandpa, and I never got to meet him. But I would just like to, because the way my mom describes him was very nice and loving, and I just always wanted to meet him. If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go? Right now, I would like to go to Bonn, Germany, because that’s where my best friend lives. She’s living there for a year, because of her parent’s job. What are you plans for the future? I’d like to go to UF and swim for UF — and major in interior design.

0) are returning to the SSAC Florida Bowl for the first time since 2014. “We were sitting and watching (the Florida Bowl) last year and the year before,” Windermere Prep head coach Jacob Doss said. “Any time you have to play a team twice, it’s really tough — especially going against a team with a legend coach in coach (Bill) Gierke.” A number of Lakers got in on the scoring fun — including Rahsaan Lewis, Blake Stillwell and Kai Patterson — but it was the complete game Mason Russell turned in on offense and defense that had Doss raving. “He is — quietly — probably the best football player on the field every time we play,” Doss said. “He does so much on offense and defense.” The Lakers now will prepare to face a St. Stephen’s Episcopal team (10-0) with — statistically, at least — a better offense (48 points per game to Windermere Prep’s 45.8) and defense (6.2

Cats or dogs? Dogs, I have a Labrador and she is really sweet. Her name is Hope.

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

Steven Ryzewski

Saturday’s game was also the final game for seniors such as Johnna Shamley.

Steven Ryzewski

The Lakers will return to the SSAC’s Florida Bowl Nov. 18 for the first time since 2014.

points allowed per game to the Lakers’ 14.9). The game will take place at The Master’s Academy in Oviedo. And although Windermere Prep faces its toughest task of the season, Doss said he sees enough shades of the team that won it all in 2014 to feel good about the Lakers’ chances. “I draw a lot of similarities between this team and the team that won it all (in 2014),” Doss said. “This team, we’re not as big as that team, but this is the fastest group of kids I’ve ever coached.”

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— Mitch Sadowsky

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15

If you could play another sport, what would you play? Probably volleyball or water polo — I would love to do water polo.

Family. Friends. Community.

so hard, from so many different areas.” In addition to the departure of the team’s coach, Saturday’s loss also ended the varsity careers of Alix Polk, Leigh Dyer, Gabby Nye, Bree Harrington and Holy Cross signee Johnna Shamley, one of the team’s captains. The Titans will return a talented core including Mya Wilson, Anaeli Perea and Emma McElveen, among others, and the hope is that this year’s run will set a new standard for the program. “(This season) gives our younger underclassmen an idea of how hard they need to work and the execution and effort level it takes to get here,” Sadowsky said. Sadowsky had been one of the longest tenured volleyball coaches in Orange County’s Metro Conference and has 173 wins to his credit. An off-campus coach who is also a personal trainer, Sadowsky said the wins — while important — were not quite as important as the impact he hoped to have on the young people he coached. “If they leave better citizens coming out of our program, and we can make strong leaders out of our group, then I think I’ve done a pretty good job coaching — because that goes so far beyond volleyball,” Sadowsky said. “I think that we did that with this (year’s) group more than any — it was a lot of fun to be a part of.”

Bowl

— TROY HERRING

Best advice you’ve received? Get rid of all the excuses and push through it.

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

“If they leave better citizens coming out of our program, and we can make strong leaders out of our group, then I think I’ve done a pretty good job coaching”

“I draw a lot of similarities between this team and the team that won it all. This team, we’re not as big as that team, but this is the fastest group of kids I’ve ever coached.” — Jacob Doss

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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2015

At last! Work begins on relief school Officials hosted a groundbreaking ceremony for the new West Orange County high school Sept. 24. STORY ON 6 ARTS+CULTURE

The secret life of

MAYOR BRUHN West Orange High thespians dish up a spoonful of sugar.

PAGE 13

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Windermere Mayor Gary Bruhn strikes the only suitable pose when holding a glass from “The Godfather.”

SCOTT APPOINTS AREA RESIDENT Gov. Rick Scott announced Sept. 18 two appointments and one reappointment to the Florida Virtual School Board of Trustees. Robert Gidel Sr., of Windermere, is the managing partner at Liberty Capital. He fills a vacant seat and is appointed for a term that began Sept. 18 and ends Sept. 10, 2017. He joins Iris Gonzalez, of Tierra Verde, on the board.

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Shannon Till, Agent Shannon Till, Agent

Since the 1980s — far longer than he has been mayor of Windermere — Gary Bruhn has collected and sold movie memorabilia. SEE STORY ON PAGE 4

149 Woodland St. • Winter Garden, FL 34787 | License & Insured

THE GROVE ORLANDO BOOGIES AT BIRTHDAY BASH

What you’re holding in your hands is the product of more than a year of planning. It’s the product of our wildest dreams — a bold step for a company that last month celebrated our 110th anniversary. Welcome, readers, to the first edition of the Windermere Observer, a sister paper of the West Orange Times & Observer, which has roots that date back to the Winter Garden Ricochet in 1905. For more than a century, our newspaper — through all its previous owners and iterations — covered the entire West Orange region with just one edition. Today, that changes. Put simply: West Orange has grown too large for one hyperlocal community newspaper. For longtime readers: this new Windermere Observer will cover Windermere, Horizon West, Dr. Phillips, Bay Hill, Gotha and MetroWest, while the West Orange Times & Observer will renew its focus on Winter Garden, Ocoee and Oakland. As the 10th newspaper owned by the Sarasota-based Observer Media Group, the Windermere Observer will strive to deliver on OMG’s slogan: “You. Your Neighbors. Your Neighborhood.”

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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2017

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Steven Ryzewski

Davarius Bargnare broke loose for a touchdown in the first quarter Nov. 10.

Panthers punish Ridge Community

PLAYOFF SCOREBOARD CLASS 8A-REGION 1 QUARTERFINALS Vero Beach 42, Olympia 19 CLASS 3A-REGION 2 SEMIFINALS

Melbourne Central Catholic 55, The First Academy 21

The Dr. Phillips Panthers don’t have to think back too far to the last time they played the Osceola Kowboys — their opponent and host in the FHSAA Class 8A Region 2 Semifinals Friday, Nov. 17. The two teams met for a memorable preseason game Aug. 18, with the Kowboys prevailing 30-27. As was the case in August, the teams will meet on the home field of the Kowboys (10-0), but this time there will be significantly more at stake: The winner of this matchup of the region’s No. 1 and No. 4 seeds will advance to the regional championship Nov. 24. Not only will the Panthers (9-2) have to slow Osceola’s versatile rush-heavy offense, an offense that averages 33.8 points per game, but also they will have to score on a Kowboys defense that allows just 8.4 points per game and makes a living in the backfields of opposing offenses — Osceola averages better than six sacks per game. Kickoff for Friday’s regional semifinal is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. at Osceola High.

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13178 W. Colonial Dr. • Winter Garden, FL 34787 THIS WEEK’S GAMES: November 18-20 All entries must be received by Saturday 11/18/17 12:00 PM to be eligible for that weeks drawing.

COLLEGE th Annu al 2 9 Presents the…

FOOTBALL CONTEST WIN $50 Gift Card to

q Michigan at Wisconsin q q UCLA at USC q q FIU at FAU q q Texas A&M at Ole Miss q q Syracuse at Louisville q

PROFESSIONAL q Tampa Bay at Miami q q Jacksonville at Cleveland q q Washington at New Orleans q q Arizona at Houston q q Philadelphia at Dallas q

MONDAY NIGHT TIE-BREAKER

Indicate the TOTAL NUMBER OF POINTS to be scored in the tie-breaker game:

Atlanta at Seattle

CONGRATULATIONS WINNER! • Shirley Schmitt (11/11-11/13)! Email Entries to Contest@ orangeobserver.com or mail or drop off to 720 S. Dillard St., Winter Garden, FL 34787. Box available at the front door.

Name ___________________________________________________________________ Phone ___________________________________________________________________ Address __________________________________________________________________ City/State/Zip _____________________________________________________________

Participants in the Subway / West Orange Times & Observer / Windermere Observer Contest should select the team they feel will win each game and clearly check their choice. Fill out the entry form circling your selections for the games along with your name, address, and telephone number. Limit one entry per person. $50 GIFT CARD from SUBWAY will be presented to the person who selected the most game winners correctly. In the event of a tie between entries, score of the tie-breaker game will determine the winner. If total points are a tie as well, winner will be drawn from hat. All entries must be received by Saturday 11/18/17 12:00 PM to be eligible for that weeks drawing.

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