11.23.17 Windermere Observer by Orange Observer

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VOLUME 3, NO. 7

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Windermere Prep throws 2017 Fall Festival. PAGE 3.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2017

Fourth-quarter heroics Dr. Phillips’ season keeps rolling after last-second TD lifts Panthers past Osceola. SEE PAGE 21.

False threat locks down Windermere High — again A text message sent to a parent Nov. 15 caused a three-hour lockdown at the new high school. OBSERVER STAFF

Following the second false threat to lock down Windermere High School since it opened in August, Orange County Sheriff’s Office officials and Orange County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. SEE TEXT PAGE 4

YOUR TOWN

Melyna and Dahlia Herrera and Allegra Iurcotta enjoyed seeing the lights.

TREES AVAILABLE AT HIGH SCHOOL

Let there be light!

Santa’s Old-Fashioned Christmas Trees will be selling fresh trees and wreaths at the Windermere High School. Chorus students are making fresh wreaths, and proceeds from this sale will benefit the department. Santa’s Old-Fashioned Christmas Trees also is making a donation to the school’s musical.

Photos by Danielle Hendrix

ARTS & CULTURE

Dr. Phillips High School students exhibit ukecan-do-it attitude with new club.

SEE 16.

Nicole Queenan and sons Jackson and Jacob matched in their holiday sweaters.

Leaders OK $16,300 to replace tower clock The clock has stood there for six years, but one resident believes that is no reason to spend $16,000 to replace it. GABBY BAQUERO

Given the ubiquity of wristwatches, iPhones and Fitbits, some residents might have failed to notice, but the town’s WINDERMERE

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SEE MORE PHOTOS ON PAGE 4

NEWS EDITOR

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

he holidays officially arrived in Windermere Friday, Nov. 17, as the town lit its Christmas tree to signify the start of the season. It was also food truck night, and hundreds of community members gathered with lawn chairs, blankets, family and friends to eat and celebrate with some holiday cheer. Many came dressed in Christmas sweaters or reindeer antlers, and kids got to play in a pit of “snow” behind Town Hall.

self-described iconic tower clock is broken. Windermere Mayor Gary Bruhn was the first to take notice of the nonfunctioning clock, which SEE CLOCK PAGE 4

BLACK

TIE Matthew’s Hope hosts fourth annual Harvest for Hope Garden Party.

SEE 7.

WINDERMERE OBSERVER

FRIDAY, NOV. 24

HOLIDAY HARBOR NIGHTS 6 to 11 p.m. Friday, Nov. 24, at Loews Portofino Bay, 5601 Universal Blvd., Orlando. Spend an evening by the harbor sipping select wines and trying unlimited gourmet food samples from the hotel’s restaurants. Live music and traditional opera performance are included. Tickets range from $58.58 to $95.85. (407) 503-1200 or portofinoconcierge@loewshotels.com. BUILD A GAME BOARD 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday, Nov. 24, at The Art Room, 709 Main St., Windermere. While parents are Black Friday shopping, children can make wooden holiday game boards. $80 includes supplies and lunch. Reservations can be made at (407) 909-1869. artroomorlando.com.

SATURDAY, NOV. 25

OHANA MEANS FAMILY FILM FEST 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 25, at the Windermere Library, 530 Main St. Enjoy a kid-friendly film fest that celebrates families of all shapes and sizes. All ages welcome. For more information, call (407) 835-7323.

TUESDAY, NOV. 28

MEET THE ARTIST: JJ DENNIS 7 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 28, at the Southwest Library, 7255 Della Drive, Orlando. Meet artist JJ Dennis as she discusses her exhibit, The Color of Magic: The Art of JJ Dennis. Dennis is a local freelance writer and artist specializing in altered books, mixed media art and digital photography/manipulation. Visit theparlourobscura.etsy. com for more on her work. Light refreshments will be served. For more information, call (407) 835-7323.

WEDNESDAY, NOV. 29

A TRIP BACK IN TIME 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 29, at the Windermere Library, 530 Main St. Grab your time travel gear and get ready to set off for different historical

periods through stories, activities and crafts. Ages 3 to 5. For more information, call (407) 835-7323.

FRIDAY, DEC. 1

“A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS” 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 1, and Saturday, Dec. 2; and 2:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 2, at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, 4851 S. Apopka-Vineland Road, Orlando. Spend some time with Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Lucy and the gang as they celebrate the true meaning of Christmas. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased at st.lukes.org/charliebrown. LIGHT UP WINTER GARDEN 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, Dec. 1, on and around Plant Street in downtown Winter Garden. Enjoy this 30th annual event with live entertainment from local church choirs and bands, vendors, shopping and children’s activities. Street- and buildinglighting ceremony will be held at 6:15 p.m. For more information, call (407) 656-4111. “CHRISTMAS STORIES” 8 p.m. Dec. 1, 2, 8 and 9 and 2 p.m. Dec. 3 at Winter Garden

Masonic Lodge, 230 W. Bay St. Mimi’s Community Theater’s show is a feel-good play just in time for the holidays, with about 25 actors, all from the Winter Garden area. For ticket information, go to the theater’s Facebook page.

SATURDAY, DEC. 2

THE GROVE’S WINTER WONDERLAND 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 2, at The Grove Orlando, 4744 S. Apopka-Vineland Road, Orlando. The Grove plaza will transform into a winter wonderland as Santa and Mrs. Claus stop by for a visit. The event also will include snow, train rides, stilt walkers and more. Free. YOGA FOR STRESS RELIEF 2:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 2, at the Southwest Library, 7255 Della Drive, Orlando. Breathe, stretch and get centered with a stress-relieving yoga practice designed to relax the body and calm the mind. No prior yoga experience needed. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes allowing for freedom of movement. Yoga mat/towel encouraged. For ages 15 and older. Registration required at (407) 835-7323.

MONDAY, DEC. 4

SOUTHWEST HOMESCHOOL CLUB: TISSUE PAPER MONET 1 p.m. Monday, Dec. 4, at the Southwest Library, 7255 Della Drive, Orlando. Learn about the famous artist Claude Monet and make a tissue-paper painting to take home. Ages 6 to 12. For more information, call (407) 835-7323.

THURSDAY, DEC. 14

CANCER SUPPORT GROUP 6:30 to 8 p.m. Thursday, December 14, in the Attic (second floor) of Building C at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, 4851 S. Apopka-Vineland Road, Orlando. This support group is for cancer fighters, survivors, caregivers, spouses and partners. Meetings include a time of sharing, spiritual and emotional support and a different topic each month related to challenges associated with cancer. This meeting is a holiday potluck and to discuss programming for 2018. For more information or to register, email care@st.lukes. org or call (407) 876-4991, Ext. 262.

LETTERS TO SANTA

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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2017

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WINDERMERE OBSERVER

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With the holiday season in full swing, here are some ways you and your family can help your West Orange neighbors. AMY QUESINBERRY COMMUNITY EDITOR

The holidays are a great time to help others in the community. There are several opportunities to help in the weeks leading up to Christmas. Here are some ways you can serve others.

DONATION DRIVES WGPD HOLIDAY GIFTS FOR KIDS

The Winter Garden Police Department is preparing for its Holiday Gifts For Kids program, which provides Christmas gifts to children in need of assistance in Winter Garden. Monetary or toy donations can be dropped off at the police department, 251 W. Plant St. New toys must be unwrapped and should be appropriate for children 12 and younger. Because of the increasing population and limited funds, a screening process has been put in place to specifically reach the families in need of assistance. Each interested family will need to complete an application, which is available online and at the front desk of the police department. Applications from Winter Garden residents will be accepted through Nov. 29 and are subject to review before being enrolled into the program. For details on application requirements or for more information about the program, call the Community Liaison Unit, (407) 656-3636, Ext. 5416.

High School Director Leslie Williams was one of several Windermere Prep faculty members who got pied in the face.

indermere Preparatory School students celebrated the fall season with their family and friends during the school’s annual fall festival. Held this year at Lifebridge Church, the event featured a plethora of carnival rides, games and food. Carnival rides lit up the night at the Windermere Prep Fall Festival.

OPD HOLIDAY TOYS, FOR KIDS IN NEED

Haley Park and Maria Leitao enjoyed themselves at the school’s fall festival.

The Ocoee Police Department is conducting its annual Holiday Toys, for Kids in Need program, and its success depends on contributions made by the community. The new toys are collected from citizens or purchased through monies raised from fundraisers. This program was started in 1984 and gives toys and holiday treats to underprivileged children ages 13 and younger who might not have otherwise received any presents. Many city of Ocoee employees donate their time to the program, so there are no administrative costs and 100% of the proceeds benefit the children. The program will reach approximately 600 children this year, and some of these needy families will also receive food baskets and donated clothing. Registration for Ocoee residents continues until Dec. 1 at the Ocoee Police Department, 646 Ocoee Commerce Parkway. Toys will be distributed Thursday, Dec. 14. Anyone wishing to make a con-

Roshan, Neha and Aarna Patel, 14 months, spent their Friday having fun at the festival.

Pedro, Fernanda and Lucas Volu, 9 months, had a blast at the festival.

ONLINE

The season for giving

Family affair

— TIM FREED

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2017

Aiden Wilmoth, 8, and mother Carolyn Wilmoth toasted marshmallows together by the festival campfire.

See more photos at OrangeObserver.com

“THE 4% TEAM”

tribution of new, unwrapped toys or monies can drop them off at the Ocoee Police Department. For information, contact Sgt. Mireya Iannuzzi at miannuzzi@ocoee.org or (407) 554-7197. HOLIDAY HEROES TOY DRIVE

Orange County Mayor Teresa Jacobs has launched the Seventh Annual Holiday Heroes Toy Drive, and donations can be dropped off at any Orange County Parks & Recreation facility or the Orange County Administration Office. Toys benefit children in need throughout Orange County. Since the toy drive’s inception in 2011, more than 24,000 toys have been donated to children and families. In addition, Orange County Animal Services has created a promotional campaign called Give Love, Get Love. Residents who donate an unwrapped toy Holiday Heroes will pay $10 in adoption fees during November. For more information, go to ocfl. net/holidayheroes.

NEHRLING’S HOLIDAY AMARYLLIS FESTIVAL The sixth annual nature-themed community event, scheduled for 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 9, at Nehrling Gardens, 2267 Hempel Ave., Gotha, will feature a variety of amaryllis bulbs for purchase, family photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus, live music, nature-themed vendors, food, a gift shop, silent auction and eco-activities for children. There will also be a focus on “Be the Gift,” and Nehrling will collect toys and food for local charities. Free admission. For more information, call (407) 445-9977 or visit nehrlinggardens.org. VOLUNTEER YOUR TIME Food For Families needs volunteers to sort and box food items on Christmas Eve and then drivers to deliver the boxes on Christmas morning to needy families in West Orange County. The packing takes place in the cafeteria of Ocoee High School, 1925 Ocoee Crown Point Parkway. On Sunday, Dec. 24, volunteers will set up the work area, unload food from Publix and local food drives and then sort and pack boxes. Two shifts are available at 7 and 10 p.m. On Monday, Dec. 25, volunteer drivers line up in the bus loop to pick up boxes, maps and directions to the recipients’s homes. For more information, call (407) 654-7777 or email office@southeasternfoodbank.com.

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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2017

Clock to be replaced

WINDERMERE

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

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

has not worked for the past nine months. Some Town Council members believe it is a charming town monument, as it is depicted in many photos of the town. But Windermere resident David Sharpe, who spoke during the public comment forum at the Nov. 14 council meeting, believes spending anywhere near $16,300 to replace the tower clock is a waste of the town’s financial resources. “Why are we spending almost $16,000 on a clock when everyone is walking around with one in their pocket?” Sharpe asked. “I just don’t think it’s a good use of town resources to spend money on things like this when we have more important things to do, like the new police station and the new town offices.” Councilman Bob McKinley also expressed reservations about spending that much money on the clock and voted against approving the funding for the town clock replacement. “I don’t think anybody actually looks at it,” McKinley said. “It’s just sitting out there as a decoration.” Bruhn responded to Sharpe by noting that the town is not using tax dollars but is instead using revenue generated by the Downtown Business Committee, which raises money via different events – including the town’s weekly farmers markets and monthly food truck events – specifically to improve the downtown. “That’s money that we allow them to use (at) their discretion for the benefit of the town,” Bruhn said. “But his complaint was, ‘Well, why don’t we take that money away from them and use it for something else?’ But as (John) Armstrong pointed out, if they host all these events to raise money and they want to use it to improve the downtown, replace the clock, add more Christmas lighting or what have you, what’s their incentive to keep making the money if we’re just going to take it away from them to spend it on something else?” When asked why it cost so much to replace the clock, Bruhn noted that only a few companies make that kind of clock. AL PICHON RESIGNS

After serving one year and nine months in office, Windermere Councilman Al Pichon has resigned. Bruhn said the former councilman resigned because he is moving out of the state to be with his family in Texas. Under the town charter, the council has 45 days to appoint someone to fit the vacancy, and if it does not agree on a successor, the governor has the ability to appoint someone. However, the council approved appointing former Councilwoman Molly Rose. Chris Sapp, who ran against Councilman Richard Montgomery in the last election and lost by four votes, also was nominated by Councilman Jim O’Brien. Rose now will be serving as an interim council member for three months until the next election. Because of Pichon’s resignation and Councilman John Armstrong’s decision to not run for re-election, there will be two vacant seats in the election.

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@OrangeObserver.com Community Editor / Amy Quesinberry, amyq@OrangeObserver.com

The Mussa and Ray families sat down for a bite to eat, along with Chicago, an Old English Sheepdog.

Black Tie Editor / Danielle Hendrix, dhendrix@OrangeObserver.com

Season’s greetings

Staff Writer / Brittany Gaines, 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

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.

Megan B. was curious about the snow pit. Right: Alexandra Dougherty and Alessandra Reilly came dressed in their Christmas-spirited gear.

ONLINE

See more photos at OrangeObserver.com

Text locks down high school CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

Barbara Jenkins issued statements promising strong punishments for anyone caught spreading false information about school shootings or threats of violence. “Recently, some schools have been disrupted by pranks about impending danger,” Jenkins said via Twitter. “This is no laughing matter. It wastes resources and can result in suspension, expulsion or even criminal prosecution.” Sheriff’s Office Public Information Office Capt. Angelo Nieves said such actions can cost tens of thousands of dollars — especially when the response includes multiple agencies, as was the case for the most recent incident at Windermere High. According to OCSO spokeswoman Deputy Ingrid TejadaMonforte, the school went on lockdown at 11:36 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 15, after a parent was forwarded a text message claiming there were individuals in one of the school’s restrooms and hallways in possession of guns. “There are guys in the bathrooms and hallways with guns in Windermere High School,” the text read. “We are afraid help, please call 911 now.” The parent reported the text message to local law enforcement.

“As patrol units arrived at the school, they coordinated with the assigned school resource officer and other responding units to check every bathroom and hallway in the school for a possible suspect,” Tejada-Monforte said in a statement. “A large coordinated effort with Florida Highway Patrol, school resource officers, K-9, Orange County Fire/Rescue, road patrol, Ocoee (Police Department), Winter Garden (Police Department) and Windermere (Police Department) ensued (during which) several contact teams entered and cleared the school grounds.” According to Tejada-Monforte, nothing suspicious was found on the campus, and Orange County Public Schools received the all clear to dismiss the students. The lockdown was lifted at 2:15 p.m. Students were released to parents at 2:45 p.m. — about 90 minutes after the regularly scheduled dismissal time of 1:10 p.m. Windermere Principal Douglas Guthrie issued a statement, as well. “A parent received a text message from a texting app,” he wrote via Facebook. “The message indicated that there were individuals on campus in the restroom with a weapon. (Due) to the seriousness of this threat, the administration informed (Orange County Sheriff’s Office)

and conducted a search of the restrooms and hallways. At the same time — and for the safety of our staff and students — we went on lockdown. The Sheriff’s (Office) arrived and searched all bathrooms and hallways again, and nothing was found. Many thanks to the students, staff and parents for their conduct and help during this unfortunate event. Our No. 1 job is the safety of your students. Thank you once again for your help and cooperation.” Because of the bus schedule, the delay also caused dismissal issues at nearby Bridgewater Middle School. This latest incident occurred less than two months after a similar incident Sept. 21. At that time, a text message threatening a shooting circulated throughout the community and forced a four-hour lockdown. Sheriff’s Office officials interviewed — and subsequently released — two students without charges. OCPS officials did not release information regarding any repercussions for the students’ actions. “Due to FERPA laws, we cannot share student information which includes disciplinary action,” OCPS Media Relations Manager Lorena Hitchcock said. “However, we do follow disciplinary actions based on the Code of Student Conduct.”

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WINDERMERE OBSERVER 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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Editor and CEO / Matt Walsh Vice President / Lisa Walsh Chairman / David Beliles Publishers of the Longboat Observer, East County Observer, Sarasota Observer, Siesta Key Observer, Palm Coast Observer, Plant City Times & Observer, Ormond Beach Observer, West Orange Times & Observer, Windermere Observer, Winter Park/Maitland Observer, Business Observer, Jacksonville Financial News & Daily Record, Jacksonville Realty-Builder Connection, LWR Life, Season Magazine and Baldwin Park Living

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Completing a family The Bethany Christian Services adoption agency helps children find a home. November is National Adoption Month. STAFF WRITER

Jamie and Delmar Johnson were on vacation when they learned they’d be parents in a week. “There was a lot of jumping, a lot of screaming and a lot of tears,” Jamie Johnson said. The Johnsons, a Winter Garden couple, had spent many years trying to start a family of their own. When they concluded infertility issues couldn’t be solved, they turned to adoption. After research, they decided the Bethany Christian Services adoption agency was right for them. The international nonprofit connects pregnant mothers hoping to place their child up for adoption with people looking to expand their family. It’s especially busy every November, which is National Adoption Month. The Florida office of BCS, which has been in Winter Garden since the early 2000s, raises adoption awareness by setting up tables outside Florida churches and holding monthly information meetings. Brittany Friis, adoption supervisor for the Winter Garden office, said National Adoption Month is a good opportunity to dispel mis-

givings surrounding the process. She believes mothers choosing adoption for their children are often misunderstood. “These women are making a really selfless decision,” Friis said. “They’re saying, ‘The needs of my child are beyond what I’m capable of providing, and I love my child so much I want to give them the best life possible.’ We like to serve these women with grace and with dignity.” She said her office typically works with 15 to 20 expecting parents at a time and has placed 22 children with families this year. “The expecting parents are looking through profiles and choosing a family for their child,” Friis said. “Some families wait a day, while others can wait two years. There’s no rhyme or reason — it’s just who that expectant mom thinks is the right family for her child.” The Johnsons waited 11 months. “It was an emotional roller coaster,” Jamie said. “You go through periods where you’re really excited. You go through moments where your spirit feels crushed because of the waiting. You get anxious every time you get a call from Bethany Christian Services.” In August 2015, just seven days after being told they had been chosen to be parents, the Johnsons drove to a South Florida

Courtesy photo

Jamie and Delmar Johnson were on a waiting list for 11 months before they were paired with their daughter, Hadley.

hospital to meet their newborn daughter. “Walking inside and seeing this teeny tiny human that we had been praying for was just incredible,” Jamie said. They named her Hadley. “We firmly believed God would bring us the baby that was meant to be ours,” Delmar Johnson said. “If you meet Hadley, the way she smiles and her mannerisms are just like mine and Jamie’s. There’s no doubt she was meant to be our daughter.” As overjoyed as they were with Hadley, they didn’t want to overlook their daughter’s birth mother. “She gave us the greatest gift anybody could ever give you,” Delmar said.

“These women are making a really selfless decision. They’re saying, ‘The needs of my child are beyond what I’m capable of providing, and I love my child so much I want to give them the best life possible.’ We like to serve these women with grace and with dignity.”

BCS typically handles open adoptions, in which the family remains in contact with the birth mother after the child is born. That policy was one of the reasons the Johnsons chose the agency. “The day our daughter was born was the highest day of our lives,” Delmar said. “But for the birth mom, it could be her lowest.” After Hadley’s birth, the couple bonded and prayed with the mother in her hospital room. Delmar Johnson said they spent just as much time focusing on her as they did on Hadley during the first week. They text multiple times a month, have two or three yearly visits and FaceTime when they can. “She is just so courageous,” Delmar said. “We think she’s awesome.” These days, Jamie stays at home raising their 2-year-old daughter, while Delmar works longer hours as an assistant manager for an insurance company. Jamie also serves on the BCS Florida board of directors, helping other families the same way the adoption agency helped her. Their house is messier now, and they can’t remember when they ever had free time. But it’s more than worth it. “I never thought I’d be so excited to change a diaper every morning, but it’s like the greatest thing ever,” Delmar said. The Johnsons are starting paperwork with BCS for a second adoption. “We want Hadley to have a sibling,” Jamie said.

— Brittany Friis, adoption supervisor for the Winter Garden office

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Approving medical marijuana dispensaries with almost no limits or banning them entirely leaves little wiggle room for city and county leaders around the state. Yet that is the predicament elected officials face after a state bill dealing with the issue of medical marijuana dispensaries was signed into law June 23. The legislation, which many believe has been written to tie the hands of city and county leaders, prohibits municipal officials from establishing limits on the number and location of the dispensaries if they approve them. “The frustration that the state Legislature would take something that was passed and then put so many strings on it … so that, at the local level, we’d pass it without almost no restrictions or ban it was, frankly, nothing short of utterly shocking and disappointing,” said Orange County Mayor Teresa Jacobs. Despite the less-than-ideal situation, Orange County unanimously approved an ordinance to allow dispensaries during the Nov. 14 Orange County Board of Commissioners meeting. This affects any part of West Orange that isn’t within municipalities of Winter Garden, Ocoee, Oakland

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Many Floridians, some of whom traveled from other counties, shared their positive experiences in using medical marijuana for their health conditions and attempted to dispel the common concerns expressed by opponents of marijuana dispensaries. All who spoke during the public comment forum spoke in favor of the ordinance, which becomes effective Jan. 1. “After spending $500 total to get my card, I’m not going to go into a parking lot to sell this stuff to anybody,” said Pasco County resident Patricia Frietag. “People over 50 — we just want to not hurt all the time. I like to get up in the morning and be in a good mood. Since I started taking medicinal cannabis, I have done more outside my home than I (have) in the last 12 years.” Alachua County resident Maria Hurley reminded commissioners that 71.3% of voters statewide, and 73.1% countywide, approved to allow medicinal cannabis. Hurley also emphasized that Florida’s medical marijuana dispensaries do not fit the stereotypes.

However, concerns do remain for Jacobs and Orange County District 1 Commissioner Betsy VanderLey, who both discussed how dispensaries may affect the tourism industry and the local economy at large. “I am also the representative that has most of the tourism corridor … and they’ve shared with me very serious concerns about these dispensaries being located in the tourism corridors and what that does to our family-friendly brand,” VanderLey said. “And I think the state really didn’t consider that when they pushed us to a position where it’s either all or nothing. … If we move forward and allow it, (the dispensaries) can locate there and impact our tourism industry significantly because of that stigma.” In response to VanderLey’s comments, Jacobs stated she hoped the companies do not con-

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sider the tourism corridors as a good market because most of the tourists are not Orange County residents and thus ineligible to purchase medicinal cannabis in the county. Jacobs also added it is possible to change the county’s land-use plan regarding where pharmacies are permitted, but it wouldn’t be easy.

Despite disagreement with the state law establishing how dispensaries may be regulated, Orange County unanimously passed its ordinance.

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ALSO INSIDE: Florida Hospital: Golden Gala. 9 New Beginning: Dancing Under the Stars Gala. 8

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Comedian Bob Smiley had his audience in hysterics. This painting sold in the live auction for $1200. From left: Cyndee and Scott Maxwell, Matthew’s Hope Founder/CEO Scott Billue, buyers Danny and Shannan Bjortvedt and artist Greg Johnson.

HARVESTING

HOPE F

rom 1920s flappers to Mickey and Minnie Mouse, guests at Matthew’s Hope’s fourth annual Harvest for Hope Garden Party pulled out all the stops to decorate their tables — and dress accordingly. The annual dinner party — held this year on Saturday, Nov. 18 — is a fundraiser for the ministry, which helps facilitate opportunities for struggling individuals ready to move toward independence. It’s also a friendly competition that pits guests head-to-head to win the Best Dressed Table Award. Comedian Bob Smiley provided the laughter with his stand-up routine. — DANIELLE HENDRIX

One of the most brightly decorated tables — complete with some of the most festive guests in attendance — was themed “Christmas Vacation.”

Kathryn Cook, Lorna Goodfellow, Mimi Hartker and Cliona Nestor dressed in 1920s attire according to their table’s theme. Left: Joel and Joan Strickland loved dressing for the occasion.

ONLINE See more photos at OrangeObserver.com

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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2017

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Ashlea Lapre and Tyson and Trisha Sorval were happy to attend the gala.

New Beginnings Central Florida’s Dancing Under the Stars Gala

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packed silent auction, dance performances from local celebrities and even a “candy bar” helped make for a star-studded evening out at New Beginnings’s Dancing Under the Stars gala. Held Thursday, Nov. 16, at the Clermont Performing Arts Center, the event is the nonprofit’s biggest fundraiser of the year. Seven local “celebrities” were the heart of the evening’s entertainment, as they went head-to-head in a dance competition to compete for the Mirror Ball trophy. New Beginnings works to connect homeless residents in Central Florida with resources and tools necessary to get back on their feet.

New Beginnings Founder Steve Smith and Executive Director Stephanie Harris looked forward to the gala.

— DANIELLE HENDRIX

Happy Holidays, the Florida Breast Cancer Foundation is Thankful for all Your Support!

New Beginnings Director of Development Shannon Herrera and Community Relations Director Erik Segalini were pleased with the event’s turnout. Left: Winter Garden residents Hilgardt and Janice Lamprecht are proud supporters of New Beginnings.

ONLINE

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is a free pickup service that collects household donations such as clothes, shoes, home décor, electronics, household items and more. With these donations, the Florida Breast Cancer Foundation funds a portion of more than $1 million earmarked for education, research, and advocacy for the fight against breast cancer disease every year.

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or call us at 407-410-8646.

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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2017

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Florida Hospital

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Golden Gala

A glamorous group from Charity Challenge was excited to support Florida Hospital.

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Kathryn Harness, Eileen Cardona and Emmy Arbelo were a gorgeous trio.

John Gibbens took his 7-year-old son, Grant, who recently had a bone marrow transplant, to the gala.

— HARRY SAYER

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Dan and Kiri Helmick and Kathryn and David Maluda formed a good-looking quartet.

isney’s Coronado Springs Resort was home to medical professionals dressed in their most elegant attire for Florida Hospital’s Golden Gala Sunday, Nov. 19. The 37th annual event benefited Florida Hospital for Children’s new pediatric transplant program. Guests dressed in stylish suits and dazzling gold dresses laughed and mingled before sitting down for the dinner and entertainment. As assortment of flashy prizes, ranging from unique toys to tasteful paintings, were up for purchase through the silent auction. The night was rounded out with a performance from singer and Grammy winner Josh Groban.

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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2017

the Hollander Trust. Bring a blanket and a picnic for a concert that has become a family tradition in central Florida. Singing duo Gloria Rice and Shawn Kilgore will perform with the philharmonic in this program of holiday favorites. Highlights include instrumentals such as selections from the “Nutcracker” and “Sleigh Ride,” along with vocal selections including “White Christmas, “Baby Its Cold Outside,” and that joyful audience singalong. No tickets required for the Central Park show; for the two concerts Nov. 25, call (407) 770-0071 or visit orlandophil. org.

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.

CHRISTMAS AT BOK TOWER GARDENS

Through Jan. 7, 2018. The holiday season is one of the best times of the year to visit the breathtaking beauty of the Bok Tower Gardens. The ever-popular Holiday Home Tour at the Pinewood Estate mansion is a highlight of its holiday events, but along the way, guests enjoy poinsettia, bromeliad and amaryllis displays; live music from the 205-foot Singing Tower carillon; walking tours; and educational programs. This season, the Holiday Tour at Pinewood celebrates the Buck family’s passion for music of the 1930s. Caught up in the fever of the Jazz Age, the Buck family is showing off its home, decorated with a musical theme. The event takes place at 1 and 3 p.m. Thursdays through Sundays, when Geert D’hollander performs Christmas music. Visit boktowergardens.org.

‘SHAMU CHRISTMAS MIRACLES’

Nov. 24 to Dec 31. We live here, so the “wonders” of the theme parks have, for some of us, become a little harder to conjure up, but SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration is determined to be “where holiday memories are made.” That can happen as we remember SeaWorld’s live shows are all inspired by nature. At SeaWorld, carols fill the air, a lake is filled with lighted trees, and skaters twirl on ice. And although it has become controversial for some, the live experience of the power and beauty of the Shamu family of whales is totally unparalleled — especially because SeaWorld has announced the end of the Orca shows sometime in the near future.“Shamu’s Christmas Miracles” sends killer whales soaring into the air, while holiday music rings out

over the loudspeakers and a distinguished voice-over tells a story of friendship and understanding. Visit seaworld.com/ Orlando/events.

‘GINGERBREAD LANE’

Nov. 24 to Jan. 7, 2018. “It takes a village to be this sweet,” but it is a feast for the eyes only in the new exhibit “Gingerbread Lane,” opening this week at the Orlando Science Center. Your family will gaze in wonder at dozens of beautiful structures created entirely from edible (cookie) materials. The creator of “Gingerbread Lane” is New York chef Jon Lovitch, who spends his entire year designing, baking and decorating to bring his vision of a wintry wonderland to life. Gingerbread workshops will be offered through the run of the exhibit. The center is at 777 E. Princeton St., Orlando. Call (407) 514-2000.

‘BIG BAND HOLIDAYS’

Bok Tower Gardens’ Holiday Home Tour is a perfect way to kick off the holiday season.

ORLANDO PHILHARMONIC PRESENTS HOLIDAY POPS

2 and 8 p.m. Nov. 25, at the Bob Carr Theater (tickets required); 4 p.m. Nov. 26, in Central Park, Winter Park (free). There are two ways for the young, “mature” and everyone in-between to celebrate the spirit of the holidays with the annual Orlando Philharmonic Holiday Pops Concerts. For those who like the comfort of theater seating, Albert George Schram will conduct the orchestra with guests including the Opera Orlando Youth Chorus, the Central Florida Community Arts Chorus and The Holiday Singers. For those who like their holiday concert outside in the fresh air (and free), the City of Winter Park and the Orlando Philharmonic invite everyone to Winter Park’s Central Park for a concert made possible by

Dec. 3. The Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra celebrates this most wonderful time of the year touring “Big Band Holidays,” performing seasonal classics. Led by Grammy-winning trumpeter Wynton Marsalis and comprising 15 of the finest jazz soloists and ensemble players today. Every December, the JLCO, Marsalis and an all-star roster of guest vocalists explore the canon of holiday standards, music of the great jazz composers and original works that foster an appreciation for the genre. A seasonal tradition among jazz lovers and their families, the JLCO spreads holiday cheer on its national big-band tours with soulful renditions of holiday classics. Special guests include “jazz royalty” Catherine Russell, who is joined by fellow vocalist Kenny Washington from New Orleans. In performance at the Dr. Phillips Center. Visit drphillipscenter.org.

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JournalismX THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2017

CREATED BY FLORIDA FILM ACADEMY - EDITOR SHELBY BECK

A New Comic Book Universe The Chronicles of Zelaria JOSH MCDONALD, 11 AND TATUM CEMPELLA, 12

Peter Smith, art director at Crimson Fables Studios, is coming out with a new and exciting series of comic books called “The Chronicles of Zelaria”.

Zelaria, according to Smith, is a fairytale driven world, where all iconic, and some newly created characters dwell together in harmony. His target audience are not only adults but children too. Smith feels that the treasured characters of his childhood have been revamped by modern storytellers making the characters

appear darker and not necessarily appropriate for children. The goal of Zelaria is to appeal to all ages. The wholesome and complex people of Zelaria are strong and capable characters. Every person has distinct and notable personalities that took him three whole years to develop. Take Aurora for example. In the

classic tale she sleeps up in her castle until her prince fights off the dragon and saves her, but in Zelaria she is the high chancellor of the Zelarian senate. Snow White has a magical bow that has infinite arrows. These princesses aren’t just “damsels in distress.” SEE A NEW COMIC BOOK UNIVERSE PAGE 12

THE NEW NORMAL? The increase of mental health issues in adolescents and how it’s being handled.

JournalismX THU RSDAY,

CREATED BY

FLORIDA FILM

ACADEMY

. one for a loop has thrown every

, 16

SHELBY BECK

sts more prote As more and socia l media as ive moun t and send out a negatsee to continues to be difficult we, vibe, it can positivity that the light or thrive on. So, as as humans,

eenagers are often stereotyped as moody. Eye rolls, phone obsession, sleep deprivation, and a general lack of enthusiasm is what’s expected of most teenagers. However, how to address a situation in which moodiness transforms into something more, like anxiety, depression, or eating disorders,

paid by the food as been it’s out our front of us. We can all seem s like to take person in The world raincloud amazing it feels a constant ry agree how of that blessed coffee covered by like the count first sip agree and it seems d now then ever. the morning. We can all , to the feels to laugh is more divide we can’t all agree in how great it those However, whileof our country or on to hug, and to love with on the leader can all agree on cry, special to us. we most cs, politi agree his . We can all PAGE 12 the little things feels to pull up to SEE LOVE it on how good and find restaurant a fast food

THURSDAY, MAY 11, 2017

Bowling

Kids: Start-Up

Be careful what you share JOSH MCDONALD, 11

TATUM CEMP

well, to start up buzz for new local businesses and promote local events. Even the local Winter Garden police department gets involved with the public through social media. Officer Andrew Raphael of the Winter Garden police department relies on social media for lots of different community

Journalism X samples some of the Mexican restaurants Winter Garden has to offer.

S LOST ART P

causes, special events that the department hosts and even sometimes cases. However, Officer Raphael also realizes the downsides to this social media expansion. He’s noticed an increase in community members coming to the department with social media issues involving young students

exican cuisine is in high demand in the United States. According to ABC News, there were 38,000 Mexican restaurants in the United States and 1,145 in Florida alone in 2011. Winter Garden is no exception to this craving for Mexican, housing a wide variety of unique Mexican restaurants, each with

their own taste and flavor. Journalism X decided to go out and sample some of the Mexican restaurants Winter Garden has to offer. First up on our list was Taquitos Jaliscos, a staple in the Winter Garden community. Well-known for their prime location on Highway 50 and their delicious, homemade Mexican, it made sense for them to be our first stop. Inside, you get the

over the years. Often, Officer Raphael encounters bullying situations as well as theft if users know families are out of town. “Parents and students should treat social media very seriously.” “I treat Facebook like my house, if I don’t let them into my house, I

2017

AL DRIVE, OCOEE,

FL 34761

SARIKA RAO, 13

A library is often thought of as a place where people can go to unwind with a book. However, what you may not know is that libraries have so much more to offer. The Winter Garden Branch of the Orange County Library System goes above and beyond when it comes to accepting advances in technology and encouraging people to read. When walking into this library, benevolent staff members greet customers and the cozy atmosphere immediately welcomes guests. This library has numerous programs for kids and adults. The branch technology trainer describes the library as a “hidden gem” because many people don’t know how many activities you can experience besides picking up a book. Folks can take technology classes, attend toddler programs, make crafts and so much more. The Winter Garden Branch welcomes new technology with open arms. For example, they offer e-books, coding classes and 3-D printing. Winter Garden’s branch also gets to test new technology before it becomes available to the other Orange County branches. Connecting with the community through social media allows the branch to bring more guests into their library. “Innovation is one of the things that they (Orange County Library System) value”, says Natalie Houston, the Winter Garden Branch Manager. Whether going to one of their many community classes, utilizing their new technology and computers, checking out a movie, an e-book, or a good old-fashioned hardcover, the library is a community treasure full of exciting possibilities and resources.

SEE THE NEW NORMAL? PAGE 12

JournalismX

SEE SOCIAL SAFETY PAGE 16

Tatum Cempella

feeling of an old Mexican town. It hosts a wide variety of murals depicting beautiful landscapes and traditional houses, some even including shingles on the roofs and windows drawn in. Their main attraction is dinner and, while their entrees are delicious and always worth a try, our favorites came from the appetizers and desserts. The highlight of our SEE HUNGRY PAGE 17

SARIKA RAO, 13, AND MENU VOLUME 1, NO. 5 HAMLETT, 12

As a young kid, you’ve been told that you could be anything you wished, from a doctor to a lawyer and anything in-between. One job that’s rarely considered in the multitude of options available is a bowling alley operator. Well, Jay Hess, the owner of Winter Garden Bowl, and Kevin ELLY ROGER Long, the facility manager, S, SUNRID have made these unique careersGE MIDDLE SCHOO L a reality for themselves. Familie It may sound odd, but s at Mosaic Church are moving working in a bowling alleyto a new location . Because takes more work than you of the church’ s growth, think. Hess and Long, though, definitely know a thing or two about keeping an alley running as smooth as a greased bowling ball. Winter Garden Bowl is a fun, family friendly environment where the community comes together. Hess and Long work hard to make sure the bowling alley maintains this environment and that every customer’s experience is a great one. Wham! You’ve just made a strike! You see all the pins magically float back into their originally places, but one job that isn’t thought of is how the bowling pins get picked up and reset. This is actually the work of the GS- 98, a 150 pound antique machine that circulates the bowling pins in and out. While it may appear that every bowling alley has one of these magic machines, the truth is that there are only 20 GS-98 machines left in the world, and they’re located right here in Winter Garden! Aside from everything we see the team at Winter Garden Bowl do, there is so much more they take care of. They pay bills, manage food and beverage, condition the lanes, and clean the alleys. Jay and Kevin say that their favorite part of the job is the people they meet. From the 1950s to now, Winter Garden Bowl will always be a staple in the community.

Mosaic Church

THURSDAY,

NOVE MBER

announces relo

10, 2016

Lucas Nascimen

cation Florida PTA fights for mandatory recess

The church will move location to a large from its Oakland r space in Winter Garden.

feet and will be renovated to fit the needs of the growing congre- church, they can come and gation. do that,” he said. Mosaic announ Joel Coffma Mosaic ced bers in the spring to its mem- eration pastor n, emerging gen- now offerslaunched in 2003 and at Mosaic Church seven services, will be relocatingthat the church is hopeful which , include s this change will in Oakland to a from its space positive one be a downto service s in histori c wn Winter Garden larger facility 2.8 for the commu nity. miles away in Winter . The “Hopefully, we Garden. The will give some church outgrew its space quickly new building space . “The so that if more people is 78,000 square only thing that they could do want to come and be apart of the SEE MOSAIC

WHEEL MAN Kim Krummel is the education manager of Harle y-Davidson’s technical training program at the Motorcycle Mechanics Institute of Orlan do.

ROBERTO VARGA S, 12, AND AIDAN BILLED EAU, 10

SEE BIKER PAGE

FLO

PAGE 16

Olivia Mitchell

recognizable names in the motorcycle industry, but did you know this large ver though t about care to company takes special building a motorc support the people who Bikes are a sleek ycle? build and repair their bikes right mode here in of transpo Orange County ? individual charact rtation, full of Winter Garden er and are often described by riders Krummel is the resident Kim feeling of freedom to give the ager of Harley- education manpasses by around as the world nical trainin Davidson’s techthe driver. Harg program at ley-Davidson is the one of the most 17

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LOCAL

SHELBY BECK, 16

disorders, often find them taking over their lives. “A few years back, I was in a really bad place mentally; I was really depressed and my anxiety was at an all time high. It made it hard to do literally everything, even as simple as getting out of bed for the day. Most of the time, I would ask to stay home and said I felt sick. I wasn’t just lying to

Library 2.0

Jake Cuomo

Social Safety

Jade Morriso

HUNGRY?

Careers like jewelers and carpenters are d now considere to be lost arts.

is an issue on the mind of many specialists and parents today. Adolescent mental health issues are on the rise. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, 20% of youths ages 13-18 live with a mental health condition, and suicide is the third leading cause of death in youth age 10-24. Depression, anxiety, and eating disorders are the most prevalent in teenagers and, those who are struggling with the

JournalismX CREATED BY FLORIDA FILM ACADEMY

Social media drives the way we connect with one another. It helps users keep in touch with family, see friends and connect through ELLA, 11 major life milestones. It’s utilized , right? throughout the community as adults for just g Work is kids are makin Wrong! Many their creative , I Day approaches big bucks with e reside nt, Valentine’s you with a remedy, Ocoe tion. ideas and rt write to all of ett is no excep with her you suppo Menu Haml love. Whet p or not, quit 11-year-old Menu is an bakery one day. Dona ld Trum Facebook feeds a plans to open bakery - Menu refreshing yourat the actions or any And not just to vegan, gluten and groaning and instead look wants to cater and non-dairy words of otherslove in the world. y free, allerg wait till she’s a up and see the diets. But why grown up? local to A c c o rd i n g Byrd, t Wend y own Acco untan start their people can age. Your ideas, business at any s can even chore has talents and business. Bryd make a great may help Menu a few tips that entrepreneur in the even and you! Brainstorm #1 The big idea:of the things all ess and consider do. The busin you love to factor important e name is an sary for peopl - it’s neces y know what diatel to imme provide. service you an audie nce: #2 Pick nce Menu’s audie Starting off, be people with bly would proba tions. you: dietary restric rs like for #3 Othe Wendy Byrd, According to - her immediate y at a Menu’s Baker can be found competition market. Wendy rs ct local farme conne she s that recommend at a bake stand ne their with someo them about to interview use you know company. “Beca to talk about like what people elves.” the most; themsthe details of e #4 Finalize plan: To ensur your businessof busin ess all n Stefanie Robinso the growt h rs must have company starte For this you learn plan. are 3 ways to rs to a business research to createg Ramos there jewele can use your ghtin ology, ready this art. It’s typical for it’s in “the highli techn tool rn work ve of mode a valuable career path if and shifting 11, AND steps to achie e rs enter this ess” which is true for VARGAS, made items goals and busin rs like jewele lROBERTO e tools includ NALD - 10 patterns. Careeare now consid- familys. Other options are schooof tasks. Onlin and the U.S. JOSH MCDO Ramo m hips. A lot carpenters livepl an.co Administration arts. and apprentices paths in and each ess opular career nurses, ered to be lost r Alex Ramos owns ing e take for granted that s & Small Busin e rs peopl Local jewele Ramos design 2017 includ physi at sba.gov cusPlantation Jewele ic piece of jewelry g supp lies: s, #5 Buyin that she may and operates accou ntant in histor s is completely tools make Street develweb Plant ins hand of y on s cians and Menu expla to located using a variet Garden. Ramo town Winter the business tomized iques. He likened the ver there seems 12 in when down TUP PAGE opers. Howe and techn SEE STAR over 30 years more of a gap 12 items. has noticing a decline in findbe more and is ARTS PAGE team custom made SEE LOST it comes to y is an avenue a lot andquality makers to join his to Custom artistr e don’t consider as ing know the craft. According of young peopl anymore because who IN PART BY... ORED a career option SPONS LY

Where is the ion This recent elect

love?

FEBR

UARY 9, 2017

SHELBY BECK, 17

Jake Cuomo

Tatum Cempella

NOW OPEN

TATUM CEMPE LLA, AND JOSH MCDON 11, ALD, 10

A majority of kids is the best part agree recess of day. Recess is time the school play and talk with for kids to their it’s when kids learn friends; and social skills. teamwork dren can’t imagine Some chilrecess, yet that’s life without almost every day for others. People such as Angie Gallo, legislation chair for da Parent Teacher the Floriand Amy McBeal Association, change that. For are trying to and the Florida years, Gallo PTA have been actively trying to return recess to schools. But they had to present their idea to the 300,000 PTA members at a convention before moving forward with their cause. There, members passed a resolut ion to support the fight for 20 minutes of daily unstructured play. McBea l joined when her daughte the cause r started kindergarten two years noticed her daughte ago. She at the end of the r was tired learned her daughtday. McBeal getting an average er was only utes of recess per of 10 minweek. McBeal’s school recess time for adjusted the their students. But McBeal felt she continue her fight needed to dents. This is whenfor all stuGallo and McBeal met. Together, they approached an elected official in the House of Representatives and gave their evidencebased arguments. bill failed once However the it reached the Senate. Lucky for kids, the Florida PTA is not a group ters. They continu of quite to fight, and their work is Orange County paying off in . OCPS recently agreed to reinsta the 2017-18 schoolte recess for year.

We encourage young students in the community to submit their articles to be published in...

JournalismX THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2017

For more information and to submit articles please Where is the love? contact stefanie@flfilmacademy.com CREATED BY FLORIDA FILM ACADEMY

This recent election has thrown everyone for a loop. SHELBY BECK, 16

As more and more protests mount and as social media continues to send out a negative vibe, it can be difficult to see the light or positivity that we,

Valentine’s Day approaches, I write to all of you with a remedy, love. Whether you support Donald Trump or not, quit refreshing your Facebook feeds and groaning at the actions or words of others and instead look

The world seems like it’s covered by a constant raincloud and it seems like the country is more divided now then ever. However, while we can’t all agree on the leader of our country or his politics, we can all agree on the little things. We can all agree on how good it feels to pull up to

out our food as been paid by the person in front of us. We can all agree how amazing it feels to take the first sip of that blessed coffee in the morning. We can all agree on how great it feels to laugh, to cry, to hug, and to love with those most special to us.

Jade Morrison

Kids: Start-Up TATUM CEMPELLA, 11

Work is just for adults, right? Wrong! Many kids are making big bucks with their creative ideas and Ocoee resident, Menu Hamlett is no exception.

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The New Normal? CONTINUED FROM PAGE 11

get a free day, I would just get so anxious to go to school that I couldn’t function” explained a junior we’ll call Mary* from West Orange High School. With mental illnesses such a destructive and growing problem, it’s important for teenagers who are struggling to get treated. However, it can be hard for parents to identify when mental illnesses are becoming a prevalent issue in their child. “Normal teenagers are often moody due to hormonal and physical changes. Therefore, when mental illness is involved, it may be difficult to differentiate “normal teenage behavior” from the symptoms of depression, anxiety, and other emtional difficulties.” stated Sejal Patel, a staff psychiatrist at UCF Health Services. In addition, many teenagers are hesitant to talk to others when they are encountering issues with their mental health. “When people would ask what was wrong, I never had an actual answer. I didn’t want to tell them, “Oh yeah, I’m just super depressed and I slept in these clothes haha.” I would just kinda shrug it off and pretend like I was fine.” elaborated Mary*. It’s hard for parents to try to determine how their children are doing, especially teenagers, without being seen as nagging and obtrusive. However, while there is not a straight one-anddone test parents can have their children take to determine mental health, there are symptoms that can warn of mental issues. Scott Miller, the Director of

the University of Oklahoma’s counseling center and chair of the Behavior Intervention Team, lists common symptoms of mental illness as: poor academic performance, rapid mood swings, withdrawal from friends and family, significant changes in eating or sleeping habits, frequent tearfulness, and more. While this list can seem large, broad, and overwhelming, there are specialists in place to help adolescents with mental health and families with determining if issues are arising, like psychologists, guidance counselors, and psychiatrists. “The main advice I would give adolescents and their family members is that mental health issues need to be thought about in the same way we think about other health issues. Treatment for mental health issues is very effective and it is helpful to seek treatment before issues become severe.” advised Miller. However, teenagers who try to take advantage of the psychology resource at OCPS schools are met with an overburdened system. Assuming school meets 7 hours a day, 5 days a week, (equating to 35 hours per week) and meets across 38 weeks in the school year, there are 1,330 required school hours. Now, West Orange High has a population of about 2,045 students this year, leaving 256 students assigned to each of the 8 guidance counselors employed at West Orange. Assuming all 8 counselors meet with their assigned students evenly, that only leaves each student 5 hours to meet with their guidance counselor out of the 1,330 school hours in a year to talk about not just mental health but college applications, grades, and schedule assignments. When we reached out to OCPS inquiring about further psychology resouces in place, they failed to respond. Challenges in receiving

treatment and more can be a major problem. “If untreated, these conditions severely influence children’s development, their educational attainments and their potential to live fulfilling and productive lives. Early identification and effective intervention is the key to successfully treat the disorder and prevent future disability.” warned Patel. No matter the situation, severity, or person, though, it’s important that those going through mental health issues feel supported in their struggles. “I would like teenagers and young adults to know that they are not alone if they are feeling depressed, anxious, or having any other issues that are affecting their life and general well being. There are many people or resources who would want to help them. I would tell family members of teenagers to allow the teenager to talk freely about their feelings and emotions without judging, teasing, or criticizing. The family member should support the teenager to go see professional help if need.” advised Patel. It’s also important that everyone realize the extent of mental health issues, both in numbers suffering and severity. “I want people to realize that mental health issues are very real. People try and take this lightly and make jokes about it but somewhere in the world right now, someone is really suffering. There is a really good chance that someone you know is going through some of the same things I went through.” emphasized Mary*. *Name has been changed to protect the identity of the student.

SARIKA RAO, 13

The Heller Bros. Packing Corp has been producing quality citrus crops for four generations; vice president, Alex Heller, is continuing the family business. Brothers Isidore and Murray Heller started the business in 1911, along with their tomato company, Pacific Tomato Growers, which grow a variety of tomatoes along with strawberries. Since then, the label on all their produce has been easily distinguishable to the Winter Garden community as a local, historic staple. The Heller Bros. are known to grow Valencia oranges, Dark Red Grapefruits, Navel oranges, Orlando Tangelos, Honey bells and Sunburst Tangerines. However, a widespread disease is affecting some of their oranges. A disease called Citrus Greening is responsible for the destroying of some of the company’s crops. This disease exists worldwide, causing issues in the global orange/citrus industry. A little bug called an Asian citrus psyllid, which is native to southern Asia, is the

TATUM CEMPELLA, 12

Matthew Davidson would have never suspected that he would be one of the two costume directors for Walt Disney World as a child. He never even knew it was his passion until he was already employed. Costuming had never crossed his mind, but Disney was always where he had wanted to be. First, he was aspiring to be an animator, but he was worried about the risk of being stuck doing the “in-betweening” for the rest of his life (for an animator, the “in-betweening” is where an animator will move the character very slowly through scenes). So, he switched his course in college for an apprenticeship at I and M (Industrial Light and Magic), but just as he was about to send his apprentice application, they stopped the program. Crestfallen, Davidson tried at Disney again. He sent them loads of different artwork, but time and time again he got no response. Davidson, though, didn’t give up on his dream of Disney. He got a job in the parks as a gangster on the beloved “The Great Movie Ride”. Six months later, Davidson found his opening. Disney was seeking out a creative costuming sketch artist, which played to all Davidson’s strengths. According to Davidson he, “Got in there, showed them my artwork, and ninety days later,” he made it. Davidson now works with talented people all over the globe in all of Disney’s parks. Most of the time, a show director will tell him the over arching theme of a parade, or the style of a show. All of it he tells us, “will be motivated by the story or the characters.” For parades that feature some of Disney’s most iconic characters, such as Mickey and Minnie Mouse, Davidson must

make them shine and stand out from the rest. Divulging into a character’s spirit and style is one of Davison’s favorite things about his job, but sometimes these characters are fresh off the storyboard, and it’s Davidson’s job to create their style. For example: In a show for Hong Kong he was told to develop clothes for “Story Book Warriors”. He threw around some ideas of fierce fighters with quills as spears, but the idea was tossed because weapons weren’t allowed in the show. Davidson then decided to make their clothes out of old worn story book pages in their ancient fonts. The idea was used and the warriors looked like true defenders of the stories they wore. Davidson’s advice to young artists who want to enter the business is to study life drawing, which is especially useful when attempting to get a costume idea across. He also says to study draping and fabrics, something that Davidson still finds challenging. The main takeaway, though, is that the only thing that can get you to your dream job is to do what he did with Disney, never give up.

A New Comic Book Universe

Four Generations of Oranges Heller Bros. Packing Corp

Dressing Up Disney

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 11

reason why this is happening. It flies onto the leaves of citrus crops and infects them, killing the plant and resulting in significant economic losses to citrus farmers. It’s a serious issue and if scientists can’t find a cure, the production of oranges will continue to drop by twenty percent each year. Eight years ago, the Heller Brother’s production of oranges was 250 million boxes. However, this year they expect to produce only 54 million boxes due to Citrus Greening. But of course, with advanced science and technology there is hope for a cure. The University of Florida is working diligently to find a cure for Citrus Greening. One potential solution is to create an orange tree that will be resistant to the disease. This plan is currently in testing and data is being collected. The Heller Bros. is a very seasoned company, but there are still many things that have stayed the same during the last fifty years. For example, they still pick their own fruit and work out of the same packing house as they did in 1940 (pictured above). Their process for packing has also

stayed consistent throughout the years. Though many things are the same, The Heller Bros. has played a major role in giving our state its own unique identity. Florida, also known as the Orange State has created tens of thousands of jobs with its orange industry, bringing in more income for the state as well as helping people provide for their families. Alex Heller describes his company as a, “tight-knit group” where you feel a “sense of comfort” around your colleagues. So, when you buy oranges from Heller Bros., know that you are not only shopping local but also experiencing a taste of history.

Photos courtesy Heller Bros

as Smith points out. With Zelaria, Smith wants to annihilate the stereotypes that have piled onto stories and tell the world that you can create a thrilling and exciting story without extreme violence or profanity and that you can have all ethnicities and groups, and make them strong and capable. It is also a sign to kids that they can do anything, and that they can be anything. “If I had listened to everyone every time they told me ‘You can’t do that’ or ‘You’re crazy if you think you can do that’ there would be no Zelaria. It would’ve been moth balled a long time ago.” says Smith. The journey has been long and hard for Zelaria, as it started, like many great things, in Smith’s garage three years ago as a small

Photo Credits: Peter Smith

kick starter project called “The Fables of Avalon”. “The Fables of Avalon” quickly exploded into the complex world of Zelaria as Smith drew out character after character, place after place, until it was near perfection. Now as Zelaria goes through its final stages of editing and coloring, it is planned to come out this winter as three sets of twelve comic books, each set with its own story arc. First, “Dynasty of Darkness” then “Whisper of the Jabberwocky” and finally “Twilight of the Emerald City”. Through it all, the ups and downs, Smith remembers what his grandmother, a great inspiration of Zelaria, had always told him, “You dream what you do, and you never fail until you give up.” This means to Smith, that “The Chronicles of Zelaria” will never fail because he will never give up on the story that he hopes will fly off the shelves and into our hearts.

y r r e M y a d n o M WINDERMERE OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2017

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Orlando Guadalupe, left, helps teach a new student the basics of playing the ukulele.

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Junior Hallie Martin is one of the Ukulele Club’s founding members.

the instruments and answer questions. “It’s the easiest instrument to teach to someone else,” Martin said. “Once you know the basics, you can do it by yourself.” Having watched the group grow since last year, Omundson said she has been impressed with the club’s progress. “They’ve definitely grown a lot overall,” she said. “I’m proud with how much initiative they had to bring this club to life.” Last spring, the club held a concert to raise money for charity. This year, they plan to continue that tradition. But until then, participants are having fun making music every week. So what does everyone especially love about the ukulele? “It has such a bright, nice tone,” Martin said. “On the ukulele, everything you play sounds bright and happy.”

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Every Thursday at 2:15 p.m., about a dozen students meet up in music room 806 at Dr. Phillips High School. Some of them are friends, while others are strangers. But what they all have in common is their love for the ukulele. “I like being able to hang out and play ukulele with my friends,” said senior Zoe Crocker. “I like sharing music with friends.” This is the second year that the Ukulele Club has been in operation at Dr. Phillips High, and the goal, according to the founding members, is to learn and enjoy playing the instrument. “It’s a fun, safe musical space for the kids to come learn,” said piano and music theory teacher Jennifer Omundson, who supervises the club each week. Last year, several students approached Omundson with the idea of starting a ukulele club. “We wanted to have another way to express ourselves,” said junior Lenore Walker. In addition to learning ukulele, several of the founding members wanted to expand their artistic abilities, because they are part of the high school’s visual arts magnet program. “Music is an important thing

to have in your life,” said Brooke Watanabe. “And a well-rounded art background is good to have in the long run.” In addition to learning a new skill, several students found that music and art often go hand-inhand. “I use music as a coping tool for a lot of stuff, and I use art as a coping tool,” Watanabe said. “I listen to music when I draw or paint. It gives life to what I paint.” The group is led by three juniors — Walker, Hallie Martin and Orlando Guadalupe — and sophomore Watanabe, and they’ve recently noticed an uptick in attendance as the ukulele has grown in popularity. “Before YouTubers, it was ‘Over the Rainbow’ all the time,” said Martin. “Now, with all the people on YouTube (playing the ukulele), it’s a good time to do this club, because they’re changing the game for this instrument.” Because of the growing interest in the ukulele, the club often attracts new faces to its weekly gatherings. “The growing popularity is very interesting,” Watanabe said. “It’s interesting, the crowd it brings.” The Thursday meetings are fairly casual, allowing participants to grab a ukulele and strum at their own level, while the four leaders help newbies learn the basics of

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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2017

WEST ORANGE OBITUARIES Dwight Scroggins, 78, of Ocoee, passed away Friday, Nov. 10, 2017. Dwight was born in Kinston, Alabama, to Louie B. and Claudine (Fleming) Scroggins. He moved from Alabama to Orange County, Florida, when he was a child. Dwight loved the Lord and served many years at Lake Sherwood Orthodox Presbyterian Church in Orlando. He was a faithful employee at Winn-Dixie for 45 years. Dwight cherished his family. He is survived by his wife, Shir-

ley; son, Dale Scroggins (Lesa), of Kingsland, Georgia; stepdaughters, Kim Baker (John), of Enterprise, Alabama, and Donna Pendrey (Martin), of the United

Kingdom; sisters, Betty Love (Pete) and Hazel Calhoun (Bill), of Ocoee; sister, Diane Hessling (Joe), of Palm City, five grandsons, two great-grandchildren; and numerous nephews and nieces. Services were held at Woodlawn Memorial Park Funeral Home in Orlando with Dr. Larry G. Mininger officiating. Donations can be made in Dwight’s memory to VITAS Community Connection, 2201 Lucien Way, Suite 100, Maitland, FL 32751; (407) 8750028; vitascommunityconnection.org.

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range County Public Schools officials held Nov. 8 an official dedication ceremony for the new Westpointe Elementary. The ceremony featured a speech from Superintendent Dr. Barbara Jenkins. Other attendees included Orange County School Board Chair Bill Sublette, School Board District 4 member Pam Gould and Greg Moody, area superintendent for the West Learning Community.

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Westpointe Elementary Assistant Principal Dr. Atresa Grubbs Holmes look on while Greg Moody, area superintendent of the West Learning Community, unveils a gift from OCPS to Westpointe Elementary, home of the Dolphins.

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OCPS Superintendent Dr. Barbara Jenkins, left, School Board District 4 member Pam Gould, School Board Chair Bill Sublette and Westpointe Elementary Principal Patricia Smith helped students Kailia Greene, Manuela Da Silva, Erica Wright, Melany Sarcevic and Abby Landman officially dedicate the school with the ribbon cutting.

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Advertising & Marketing Coordinator Winter Park/Maitland Observer

OCOEE

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OAKLAND • Mosaic Church 608 W Oakland Ave

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