11.30.17 West Orange Times & Observer by Orange Observer

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

Observer Celebrating more than 110 years in West Orange

YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.

FREE

VOLUME 84, NO. 48

•

Ocoee grad to compete in teen pageant. SEE 3.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2017

Fine day in Philly

YOUR TOWN ADD A LOVED ONE TO PATRIOTIC TREE Winter Garden resident Jocelyn Denney is setting up a patriotic Christmas tree in her front yard to recognize military personnel, veterans and fallen warriors, as well as fire fighters and police officers. The 7-foottall tree will be decorated in red, white and blue and remain on display Dec. 1 through 25. Residents are invited to add a flag or photo of a loved one to the tree, 207 Fourth St. Denney’s son Harold Denney, 19, is joining the U.S. Marines and waiting for paperwork to be completed.

Nature preserve raising money for hurricane damage repair Junior Cassy Perrine brought a little West Orange to the City of Brotherly Love.

Photos by Thomas Lightbody

embers of the West Orange High School marching band enjoyed a Thanksgiving they won’t soon

forget. The band spent Turkey Day 2017 performing in the 6ABC Dunkin’ Donuts Thanksgiving Day Parade in Philadelphia. In its 98th year, the parade is the oldest Thanksgiving parade in the nation and featured plenty of festive floats, performances and holiday fun.

GABBY BAQUERO NEWS EDITOR OAKLAND Incorporated in 1999,

— MICHAEL ENG

SEE MORE ON PAGE 4

The Oakland Nature Preserve hopes to raise $20,000 to pay the deductible needed to fix its boardwalk.

Sophomore Patrick Lightbody enjoyed performing on Thanksgiving in Philadelphia.

the Oakland Nature Preserve has been an oasis for many West Orange residents who appreciate spending time in nature and observing local wildlife. However, a local favorite — the .7-mile boardwalk built in 2004 that takes visitors through

Gracie’s marks anniversary with adoption day

Amy Quesinberry

Kim Dannenberg is the owner of Gracie’s of Winter Garden, which recently celebrated its eighth anniversary at 220 S. Dillard St.

The pet food and supply store also has donated 100 bags of dog food to Puerto Rico after Hurricane Maria destroyed the island.

SEE PAGE 8

SPORTS

SEE PRESERVE PAGE 4

WINTER PREVIEW See inside for our exclusive look at the winter sports season. PAGE 19

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS

FRIDAY, DEC. 1

30TH ANNUAL LIGHT UP WINTER GARDEN 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, Dec. 1, on and around Plant Street in downtown Winter Garden. Join the city of Winter Garden and the West Orange Ministerial Association in welcoming the season with this annual event. 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. (407) 656-4111. ‘CHRISTMAS STORIES’ 8 p.m. Dec. 1, 2, 8 and 9 and 2 p.m. Dec. 3 at the Winter Garden Masonic Lodge, 230 W. Bay St. Mimi’s Community Theater’s show is a feel-good play that will leave audience members feeling like it was written about their own family. Tickets can be purchased on the Facebook page of Mimi’s Community Theater.

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2017

SATURDAY, DEC. 2

JINGLE JOLLY JOG 5K 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 2, at Oakland Park, 15241 E. Oakland Ave., Winter Garden. Top 3 overall and age group awards will be given out. Age groups will be in five-year increments. There will be a kids’ fun run, live disc jockey, activities and a visit from Santa Claus. This year’s race is held in memory of Allison Gray. The cost is $30 through Dec. 1 and $35 check or cash on race day. Register at trinrun.com and at Tri & Run of West Orange, 56 W. Plant St., Winter Garden. The West Orange Junior Service League is the beneficiary of the race. wojsl.com or WOJSLCorrespondence@gmail.com. 37TH ANNUAL OCOEE CHRISTMAS PARADE 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 2. Rain date is 10 a.m. Sunday, Dec. 3. Starts at the intersections of Maguire Road and En-

terprise Street and ends at Bill Breeze Park, 125 N. Lakeshore Drive. Folks will line the streets to see festive floats, marching bands, motorcycles, fire trucks, Santa Claus and more. Judges will score participants in the following categories: Youth, Commercial, Non-Commercial, Churches and Judges Overall Winner. (407) 905-3100. OCOEE HOLIDAY TREELIGHTING CELEBRATION 5 to 8:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 2, at the historic Withers-Maguire House, 16 E. Oakland Ave., and the adjacent Ocoee Lakeshore Center, 125 N. Lakeshore Drive. The tree-lighting will take place at 6:15 p.m. Photos with Santa Claus, horse-and-carriage rides, pony rides, a fire pit for making s’mores, food trucks, silent wreath auction, tours of historic Withers-Maguire House, face painting and music from DJ Tod. Small fee for some activities. ocoee.org. WINTER GARDEN CHRISTMAS PARADE 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 2. Starts on South Dillard Street, heading north, and goes west on Plant Street. Marching bands, decorated floats, festive music and more. The Mayor’s Trophy and Grand Marshal’s Award will be given, as well

as trophies in these categories: Best Youth or Children’s Group; Best Commercial or Business Entry Float; Best Band, Vocal or Performance Group; Best Church or Fraternal Group; and Best Antique Vehicle. (407) 656-4155.

FRIDAY, DEC. 8

MUSIC ON THE PLAZA 7 to 9 p.m. Friday, Dec. 8, at the Plant Street gazebo in downtown Winter Garden. This week’s performer is the Paint it Black Quartet. (407) 656-4111.

SATURDAY, DEC. 9

REINDEER RUN 5K 7 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 9, at the Winter Garden Village at Fowler Groves. The event, presented by Observer Media Group and other sponsors, raises funds for the Reading Reindeer literacy program and to benefit Oakland Nature Preserve and Nehrling Gardens. All finishers will receive a medal. Awards will be presented to the top male and female overall and the top male and female masters. Age-group awards will be presented to the top three male and female finishers. Race-day registration and packet pick-up begins at 6 a.m. Cost is $30. Pre-register online at trinrun.com. Allison Brunelle, (407) 656-2121, or abrunelle@orangeobserver. com.

OTHER EVENTS SATURDAY, DEC. 2

FAMILY FUN DAY 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 2, at Horizon West Community Church, 6121 Avalon Road, Winter Garden. Food, games, pony rides, inflatables, face painting and caricatures. All activities and food are free. (407) 8776237. “WAKE UP WINTER GARDEN” BOOK READING 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, Dec. 2, at the Winter Garden Heritage Foundation, 21 E. Plant St. This holiday craft and bookreading party introduces a new children’s book, “Wake Up Winter Garden,” written by Oakland resident Haleigh Smith. For more information, visit wakeupwintergarden.wixsite.com/ book.

SUNDAY, DEC. 3

SOUTHERN LADIES CHRISTMAS BAZAAR 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 3, at the Winter Garden Elks Lodge, 700 S. Ninth St., Winter Garden. Vendors will be selling items including jewelry, candles, clothes, soaps and makeup. The $5 admission includes appetizers and door prizes. For more information, call (314) 2238082 or eail to pamelasdp1@ gmail.com.

OUR TOUGHNESS IS YOUR STRENGTH.

12403 WEST COLONIAL DRIVE, WINTER GARDEN • (407) 654-9299 • VISIT US ONLINE AT MAINSTREETMOWER.COM

254863

NOW OPEN 7AM-5PM

I choose relief from my back pain. I choose Orlando Health. If you’re suffering from chronic back or neck pain, the NeuroSpine Center of Excellence at Orlando Health – Health Central Hospital offers highly effective treatment you can trust.

Led by internationally known neurosurgeon Robert Masson, MD,

the NeuroSpine Center of Excellence offers the only spinal surgery program in Central Florida certified by the Joint Commission. We offer non-invasive and minimally invasive treatments for

disabling back and neck issues. Virtually all of our spinal surgery patients are up on their feet the same day of surgery and quickly return to their active lifestyles with support from our dedicated therapists.

To schedule a consultation or to learn more, call 321.842.5027 or visit OrlandoHealth.com/SpineExcellence.

10,000 West Colonial Drive | Ocoee, FL 34761

Joint Commission Certified for Spinal Surgery

254817

OrlandoHealth.com/SpineExcellence

Not actual patients.

NeuroSpine Center of Excellence

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2017

Competing for the crown Ocoee High graduate Katy Vencatasawmy will be competing for the title of Miss Teen Orlando Sunday. DANIELLE HENDRIX BLACK TIE EDITOR

OCOEE

hile looking to start a modeling career, Ocoee High graduate Katy Vencatasawmy never anticipated she would be competing for a crown along the way. But on Sunday, Dec. 3, that’s exactly what she’ll be doing in the 2017 Miss Teen pageant. The 18-year-old Ocoee resident recently decided to pursue a modeling career and began posting headshots on different modeling sites. That’s when she got a letter in the mail inviting her to interview for a chance to participate in the Miss Teen pageant.

“When I was selected, I was kind of shocked. I’ve always wanted to do this but never thought I’d have the chance to compete in a big pageant like this. Someone obviously had the confidence in me to refer me, so that was exciting to have.” — Katy Vencatasawmy

“When I was selected, I was kind of shocked,” she said. “I’ve always wanted to do this but never thought I’d have the chance to compete in a big pageant like this. Someone obviously had the confidence in me to refer me, so that was exciting to have.” She first had to interview with the pageant coordinator and then found out she was referred by someone anonymously. Later, she learned she was accepted to compete and could move on to the next step of securing $595 in sponsorships from local businesses and organizations to cover pageant costs. “(It was exciting) having the sponsors, too — some people were just giving me money and didn’t want a receipt or anything,” she said. “For them to trust me and show that they’re supporting me, that was really heartwarming, as well.” Vencatasawmy will be in the Miss Teen division with other girls ages 16 to 20. She will have a personal interview the day before with the judges, and on the day of the pageant, she will compete in casual-wear and formal-wear modeling routines. “I went to a training, and when we were there, we were taught the positions — the way you stand when you’re posing for casual and formal wear,” Vencatasawmy said. “I had to learn to do that and also do that in heels, which is very difficult. We practiced good interview etiquette and talked about eye contact and exiting and entering the room.” And as she does all of this, she will be competing for a complete modeling package, a chance to participate in the 2019 national

Courtesy photos

Katy Vencatasawmy, an 18-year-old Ocoee resident, is making her debut in the pageant world this weekend at the Miss Teen pageant.

pageant here in Orlando, and her share of more than $30,000 in prizes and scholarships. “This is my first real-deal pageant,” Vencatasawmy said. “I want to focus on having fun and meeting other girls, experiencing and taking it all in. … Whenever I see the winners of different pageants, they’re always there to inspire other girls to reach for their dreams. I feel like I want to to be that person, to inspire oth-

ers and confidence, because confidence doesn’t come easy for everyone. “My past wasn’t really the greatest,” she said. “It was hard to overcome, and this pageant is kind of giving me a chance to rise out of that and inspire other girls, that they can do this too, no matter what your past is or what you come from.”

Downtown Winter Garden complex to open next fall The three-story mixeduse project on Boyd and Tremaine streets originally was scheduled to open in spring 2018. GABBY BAQUERO NEWS EDITOR WINTER GARDEN Residents soon will have more shops and restaurants to choose from downtown once the mixed-use development being built by Tremaine Boyd LLC arrives. Although originally scheduled for an opening in spring 2018, the mixed-use project has seen some minor delays that have pushed back the project’s timeline, said John Rinehart, president of Civitas Consulting Inc. The project, which received final approval in August 2016, is still gathering all the permits required before breaking ground on the parcel located at the corner of Tremaine and South Boyd streets near the SoBo Art Gallery. “The city had to clear up some environmental issues on the site that took over the whole course of the summer, and that put us behind a little bit,” Rinehart said. “Other things lagged a little bit

too, but we’re pretty excited. We know it’s going to be a great addition to the downtown.” The land, which was purchased from the city of Winter Garden for $177,000, soon will host a threestory building with four retail tenants on the first floor — which the developer wishes to keep a surprise — as well as 22 high-end apartment units on the second and third floors. “We have approximately 8,128 square feet of non-residential space on the ground floor, and we’re in the process of leasing that,” Rinehart said. “We have signed with some (businesses), but I think I’d like to wait until we’re ready to release them all.” Rinehart said the company has signed with one well-established restaurant that has yet to open any locations in Winter Garden and also is negotiating with a second possible restaurant. “We want tenants that contribute to the culture of downtown Winter Garden,” Rinehart said. “We don’t want any outliers. We’re sensitive to that. Winter Garden is a special place.” The 22 apartments on the second and third floors will be divided into six studio apartments of about 650 square feet, 12 one-bedroom apartments of about 850 square feet and four

“We want tenants that contribute to the culture of downtown Winter Garden. We don’t want any outliers. We’re sensitive to that. Winter Garden is a special place.” The three-story building will be located at the corner of Tremaine and South Boyd streets near the SoBo Art Gallery.

— John Rinehart

Courtesy photos

The project, John Rinehart said, will break ground once all required permitting is completed in late December.

two-bedroom apartments measuring 1,100 square feet. Each unit will have its own designated parking space and

an in-unit washer and dryer and feature a mix of granite countertops, stainless-steel appliances, windows for natural lighting, tile

floors, energy-efficient appliances and high ceiling. Rinehart said the company still is working on the pricing.

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2017

WEST ORANGE TIMES &

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

Members of the West Orange High marching band were excited to perform in the 98th Annual Thanksgiving Day Parade in Philadelphia.

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

Warriors get their fill in Philly

Black Tie Editor / Danielle Hendrix, dhendrix@OrangeObserver.com 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 West Orange Times & Observer is published once weekly, on Thursdays. The West Orange Times & Observer can be found in many commercial locations throughout West Orange County and at our office. If you wish to subscribe, visit our website, OrangeObserver.com, call (407) 656-2121 or visit our office, 720 S. Dillard St., Winter Garden.

Senior Mackenzie Beach was all smiles as the parade began.

TO ADVERTISE For display or digital advertising, call (407) 656-2121. For Classifieds, call (407) 656-2121.

SEND US YOUR NEWS Senior Perry Riggs loved performing in the Thanksgiving parade.

ONLINE

Junior Stephanie Jones added color and visual effect to the marching band.

See more photos at OrangeObserver.com and tk-photos.com

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

WEST ORANGE TIMES

Preserve problem CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

shaded wetlands and ends at a covered pavilion overlooking Lake Apopka — has remained inaccessible to visitors following Hurricane Irma’s destruction in early September. In addition to toppling hundreds of trees in the 128-acre preserve, Irma’s winds destroyed segments of the boardwalk that insurance estimates will cost about $30,000 to $40,000 to fix. “We were very lucky that we didn’t have any structures sustain building damage except for one shed that had some damage we were able to patch up,” said Jennifer Hunt, the Oakland Nature Preserve’s managing director. “Our biggest issues were downed trees and major damage to the iconic boardwalk. Lots of trees went down, so it looks very different than it did before the storm, which also took out many handrails. We also had some large maple trees that physically broke through the

boardwalk in some areas that will have to be completely demoed.” On Sunday, Nov. 19, the preserve was able to reopen the front 20% of the boardwalk between the education building and the island, which is accessed through the preserve’s green trail. The reopening of that segment was possible thanks to a volunteer who rebuilt the damaged handrails in that area. However, the rest of the boardwalk remains closed, with construction barriers obstructing access until significant repairs are made. And nearly three months after Hurricane Irma, damage to the preserve continues, because staff sometimes find newly felled trees after returning the following day. “We still have trees going down,” Hunt said. “I went down just last week, and there was a new maple tree down that took out more handrails. The (trees) are weak from the hurricane, and there’s still water slowly lowering as the lake levels go back to their

Courtesy photo

“It looks completely different than it used to, and when you walk down the boardwalk, there are areas where you are literally walking by the rootballs of massive maples that have gone down,” said Jennifer Hunt, managing director of the Oakland Nature Preserve.

normal state, which makes more soil shift and causes those trees to continue to go down. But that’s nature — there’s nothing we could do about that. That’s one reason why it continues to be closed.” Hunt expects the soil to settle eventually, hopefully once construction is completed so theymay safely reopen the remaining segments. Hunt estimates about 50 to 75 trees fell victim to Irma along the boardwalk, with some areas of the boardwalk featuring rootballs of massive maples that have gone down. “One of the largest trees on the property went down — one that I used to climb when I was a kid,” she said. “It’s long gone and on its side now. It was the only thing I cried over when I came back after the storm. I walked around the corner and saw it and just burst into tears like, ‘No, not my tree!’” Hunt said the preserve will need to pay a hurricane deductible to repair the boardwalk to its former glory. To date, the preserve has raised $220 out of its $20,000 goal. Anyone wishing to donate may visit Gofundme.com/ONPBoardwalk.

The West Orange Times & 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 West Orange Times & Observer, 720 S. Dillard St., Winter Garden, Florida 34787.

Observer Media Group Inc. 1970 Main St. • Sarasota, FL 34236 941-366-3468

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

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2017

ATTENTION MEDICARE BENEFICIARIES

copays so you can enjoy the best years of your life.

Having a plan that understands your healthcare needs, that’s the Simply life. Simply Healthcare offers zero copays, a broad network of doctors, and a dedicated concierge team. Trust Simply Healthcare, so you can live the Simply life. Simply Healthcare offers a variety of plans with benefits you can trust, including:

$0 or low copay

$0 copay $32 monthly SilverSneakers® for enhanced dental for over-the-counter (OTC) benefits (including dentures)

for hospitalization

fitness program

items, that’s $384 a year!

Call us today!

1.800.224.5706 / TTY: 711 mysimplymedicare.com

Earvin “Magic” Johnson Healthcare Advocate

Orange, Osceola and Seminole Counties. Simply Healthcare Plans, Inc. is a Medicare-contracted coordinated care plan that has a Medicaid contract with the State of Florida Agency for Health Care Administration to provide benefits or arrange for benefits to be provided to enrollees. Enrollment in Simply Healthcare Plans, Inc. depends on contract renewal. This information is not a complete description of benefits. Contact the plan for more information. Limitations, copayments, and restrictions may apply. Benefits, premiums and/or copayments/coinsurance may change on January 1 of each year. Benefits may vary by plan. You must continue to pay your Medicare Part B premium. For full-dual members the Part B premium is covered. Premiums, copays, coinsurance and deductibles may vary based on the level of Extra Help you receive. Please contact the plan for further details. Medicare evaluates plans based on a 5-star rating system. Star Ratings are calculated each year and may change from one year to the next. The Formulary, pharmacy network, and/or provider network may change at any time. You will receive notice when necessary. From October 1 to February 14, we are open 7 days a week from 8 a.m. - 8 p.m., EST. Beginning February 15 until September 30, we are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. 8 p.m., EST. We do not discriminate, exclude people, or treat them differently on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability in our health programs and activities. ATENCIÓN: Si habla español, tiene a su disposición servicios gratuitos de asistencia lingüística. Llame al 1-877-577-0115 / TTY: 711. ATANSYON: Si w pale Kreyòl Ayisyen, gen sèvis èd pou lang ki disponib gratis pou ou. Rele 1-877-577-0115 / TTY: 711. Paid endorsement. Y0114_18_32935_U_004_Final_4_Accepted

258151

CMYK

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2017

Cornerstone Hospice breaks ground near Health Central

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

The facility, scheduled to open in 2019, will include 10 private rooms and a family lounge. 1333 East Crown Point rd. oCoEE, FL 34761

AMY QUESINBERRY COMMUNITY EDITOR

West Orange County will get a much-needed hospice unit by 2019 after a need was identified for critical patients facing lifelimiting illness to receive care in a comfortable, home-like environment. Cornerstone Hospice and Palliative Care will have its own space in the Orlando Health Center for Rehabilitation, which broke ground earlier this month on the campus of Health Central Hospital, in Ocoee. The first floor of the five-story facility will house Cornerstone Hospice Care Unit, with its 10 private rooms and family lounge. Each room will have a pullout bed, refrigerator and showers so family members can spend as much time as possible with loved ones. The 95,000-square-foot Orlando Health Center for Rehabilitation and Cornerstone Hospice Care Center are scheduled for completion in 2019. Providing seed money for this new health care project are the West Orange Healthcare District ($1.25 million) and West Orange Health Alliance ($440,000). “The Cornerstone Hospice Care Center at Orlando Health-Health

Courtesy

Central will help fill a gap in health care services available in West Orange County,” said Chuck Lee, president and CEO of Cornerstone Hospice. “Patients and their families will receive inpatient care in a homelike place, not an intensive care unit, when symptoms become too difficult to manage at home. “We are grateful for the partnership of Orlando Health, which designated space for the unit, and for the generosity of the West Orange Healthcare District and West Orange Health Alliance to kickstart the capital campaign,” Lee said. In November 2015, the 22-bed Cornerstone Hospice Unit opened at Orlando Health’s Orlando Regional Medical Center. More than 2,200 patients and their families have received care and end-of-life support at the downtown Orlando unit. “The West Orange Healthcare District is dedicated to ensuring that the residents have access to

medical care and wellness services right in our community,” said Norma Sutton, chair of the West Orange Healthcare District. “The district is pleased to make an investment in the Cornerstone Hospice Care Center, which will help fill a gap for families who want to provide comfort and dignity for their loved ones facing end of life.” “Aside from meeting a critical need, having this resource in our community will help raise awareness about hospice care and the peace of mind it provides to patients and families facing life-limiting illness,” said Lynn Walker Wright, a member of the West Orange Health Alliance who chairs the project’s $3.6 million campaign. Currently, the only hospice facility in West Orange is the VITAS Inpatient Hospice Unit at Quality Health Care, 12751 W. Colonial Drive, Winter Garden.

Holiday TASTE & TOURS Get a glimpse of Windermere’s newest assisted living and memory care community, while savoring our chef’s greatest holiday creations. Reserve your seat at the table today!

RSVP AT 407-605-5634 OR TO SCHEDULE YOUR PERSONAL TOUR TODAY!

ASSISTED LIVING | MEMORY CARE 13798 SPEER ISLAND DRIVE WINDERMERE, FL 34786 WWW.SENIORLIFESTYLE.COM Assisted Living Facility License #13029

258111

254992

“thE stonE thE buiLdErs rEjECtEd is now thE CornErstonE.” –Psalms 118:22

257827

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2017

Pat Sharr Realty

A day for Blue Jays

407-656-7947

MultiMillion Dollar Producer

PAT SHARR

Broker/Owner

407-948-1326 patsharr@aol.com

www.patsharr.com

BUYING A HOME? SELLING YOUR HOME? WE DON’T CHARGE TRANSACTION FEES!

JU S TR ED UC E

254844

CALL ME TODAY!

WHAT MORE COULD YOU ASK FOR???

HONEY STOP THE CAR!!! TAKE A LOOK AT THIS POOL/SPA HOME!!! Just freshly painted, nothing to do here but move in. This home is located in one of the sought after neighborhoods in Ocoee! Brookestone is a gated community and close to all major highways, shopping and schools. Open the front door step inside to the foyer, to the right is the formal dining room, straight ahead is the view through sliding glass doors of your sparkling pool/spa. Covered lanai with brick pavers and privacy fenced back yard. The kitchen features all the appliances, breakfast nook and breakfast bar, built in desk, large pantry and 42” cabinets.Inside Laundry room with washer and dryer which is staying, plus a 2 car garage with a laundry sink. Large family room with sliding glass doors leading to the large brick paver lanai. Master features an adjoining sitting area, master bath has jetted garden tub, separate shower and double vanities. 3 Way split bedroom plan with 2 of the guest bedrooms centered around the guest bath. The 4th bedroom is by itself with pool bath. Take a look at this beauty today!!! Asking Only $360,000.

DRASTICALLY REDUCED ($29,000) MOTIVATED SELLER!!!

— AMY QUESINBERRY

RESCHEDULED

EVENT

MR. & MRS. CLEAN LIVE HERE!!! 4BDRM., 2.5 BA. 2 STORY POOL HOME!!!This is a picturesque setting, very well maintained landscaped yard and a superb interior. Inside you will find a ceramic tiled foyer, living/dining room that is currently being used as a living room, the kitchen features range, refrigerator, dishwasher and disposal all are staying. Inside laundry room, large walk-in pantry. Breakfast area with sliding glass doors leading to the screened lanai. Family room with wood flooring and large enough for everyday living!!! Also featured is a half bath on the first floor. Upstairs you will find the huge master bedroom adjoined by the master bath, garden tub, dual sinks, separate shower and large walk-in closet. The other 3 bedrooms are centered around the guest bath, dual sinks, tub with shower. Lets go back down stairs and out to the screened lanai and sparkling pool, no rear neighbors right in your back yard! ASKING ONLY $279,000

ONLINE

Trista Fitzpatrick received a blue ribbon for her creative bluejay.

Take a look at this CUSTOM BUILT 2 STORY BRICK COLONIAL!!! Located on 7.86 acres, bring your horses, cows, chickens or just enjoy all of the land. Open the door to your future, wood flooring, tile in all wet areas, living room, picture window dining room and custom eat-in kitchen includes all appliances, wood cabinets, granite counters and island. Family room features brick wood burning fireplace for those cozy evenings! All bedrooms are located on the 2nd floor, master bedroom has French doors leading to the private balcony, enjoy the panoramic views!!! Master bedroom is adjoined by master bath, dual sinks, garden jetted tub and separate shower. The other 3 bedrooms are centered around the guest bath and the end bedroom also has a private balcony. Located on the first floor also features 1/2 bath and laundry room. Property is fenced and has gated entrance!!! See this property today, get away from all the traffic and noise to quite country living!!! New roof to be installed!!! Asking Only $ 450,000

See more at OrangeObserver.com

lue Jay Day was a full day of celebrations as Spring Lake Elementary School recognized its history, as well as its place in Ocoee’s history. Christine Moore, Orange County Public School Board member, hosted the event, which included two live bird shows and a tasting of passionflower tea. Students wrote essays and poetry, and winners of the poetry contest were announced in the school foyer once the finalists read their poems. After the poems were read, Ocoee Mayor Rusty Johnson praised the students for their creativity and announced that all 10 would be featured at City Hall. Trista Fitzpatrick was named the winner of the school’s art contest.

JUST LISTED!!!

LE G! SA DIN N PE

Artist Lisa Mikler cut the ribbon to dedicate the mural she painted on one school wing near the front office.

MAKE AN OFFER!!!

TAKE A LOOK AT THIS 3 BDRM. 2 BA., NO HOA!!! LARGE FENCED BACK YARD, PARK YOUR MOTOR HOME OR BOAT. THIS HOME FEATURES A LIVING/GREAT ROOM WITH WOOD BURNING FIREPLACE, FRENCH DOORS LEADING TO THE SCREENED COVERED BACK PORCH, KITCHEN COMPLETE WITH ALL APPLIANCES STAYING, BREAKFAST NOOK OVERLOOKING THE HUGE BACK YARD, BEAUTIFUL STATELY TREES, STORAGE SHED.. ALSO FEATURES 2 CAR GARAGE W/OPENER. NO NEIGHBORS ACROSS THE STREET, MINUTES FROM DOWNTOWN WINTER GARDEN. MOTIVATED SELLER!!! ASKING ONLY $229,000

FANTASTIC BUY WITH A POOL!!!

IMMACULATE CONDITION!!! 4 BDRM.,2 BA. FORMAL LIVING AND DINING, KITCHEN COMPLETE WITH APPLIANCE THAT ARE 1 YR. OLD, QUARTZ COUNTERS, BREAKFAST AREA, FAMILY ROOM, SPLIT BEDROOM PLAN. PAVER COVERED SCREENED LANAI AND SCREENED SPARKLING POOL!!! MINUTES AWAY FROM SHOPPING, ALL MAJOR HIGHWAYS!!! THIS IS A DREAM COME TRUE AND NO REAR NEIGHBORS!!! ASKING ONLY $250,000!!!

How To Do Business with the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA)

WORKING TOGETHER BUILDS SUCCESS

JUST LISTED - 5 DAYS!!!

Honey stop the car!!! Take a look at this 2 bdrm. 2 ba. Beauty!!! No hoa!!! This home situated on a large lot with back yard privacy fence and storage shed. Step inside to the tiled foyer to the right is the living/great room, to the left is the dining room currently being used as office/den. Straight ahead is the country eat-in kitchen w/ all appliances. French doors leading to the covered screened lanai perfect for entertaining!!! This a fantastic buy just recently painted inside and out all you need to do is bring your furniture!!! Asking only $199,000

SBD CONNECT DOWNLOAD THE APP

• REGISTER FOR THIS EVENT • BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES

AVAILABLE FOR

GET IN NOW!

SMALL BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE JOIN US FOR A ONE-ON-ONE EXCHANGE WITH CONSTRUCTION MANAGERS, PRIME CONTRACTORS, GOAA OFFICIALS AND SUCCESSFUL SMALL BUSINESSES OPERATING AT ORLANDO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT!

SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

WH E N

13TH ANNUAL NETWORKING EVENT

WH E R E

Thursday, December 7, 2017 7:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Hyatt Regency Orlando 9801 International Dr., Orlando, FL 32819

OR BY SBD CONNECT APP (BY Nov. 27, 2017)

FREE Registration | FREE Parking

WWW.OR LANDOAIRPO RT S.AERO /SBDCO NNECT /REGIST ER

www.orlandoairports.net/airport-business MCO-SB_1on1_Ad_West_Orange_Times_10.375x8.indd 1

256663

QUESTIONS? CONTACT US AT 407.825.7133

11/3/17 4:43 PM

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2017

Cause for celebration

DOWNTOWN WINTER GARDEN

Cook like a Gourmet Chef using our premium extra virgin, infused olive oils and decadent balsamic vinegars! 255000

Book a Private Tasting Event Today! 125 N. Plant Street Winter Garden eSacredOlive.com (407)656-6457

NO MORE FOOT OR ANKLE PAIN! Lake Bennet Medical Center 1151 Blackwood Ave. Ste. 120 Ocoee, FL 34761

Polka-dogz Pet Rescue brought several of its adoptable pets to the Gracie’s anniversary event: Denise Tutas, left, with Goose; Heidi Hardman; Ashley Trigueros with Rosetta; and Ellen Winter with Maverick.

www.DrGoodFoot.com

AMY QUESINBERRY Se habla Español OWNER’S TITLE INSURANCE

Mark A. Lombardo, DPM PODIATRIST

FREE

COMMUNITY EDITOR PROTECTS YOU… YOUR KIDS… INITIAL VISIT Kim Dannenberg, owner of GraWith this ad. X-Rays & YOUR GRANDKIDS… cie’s of Winter Garden, provided treatment not included. YOUR GREAT-GRANDKIDS AND…

407-578-9922

254824

a chance for some loving animals to find their forever homes at her • INGROWN NAILS • HAMMERTOES eighth anniversary and adoption • HEEL SPURS / HEEL PAIN WELL, YOU GET THE IDEA.day celebration on Saturday, Nov. • BUNIONS • CORNS / CALLOUSES 18. The Winter Garden Police • CHILDREN’S DISORDERS Department brought its K-9 unit • DIABETIC COMPLICATIONS • NEUROMAS for demonstrations, and a local • DEGENERATIVE ARTHRITIS, GOUT resident stopped by with her two • SPORTS INJURIES • FOOT / ANKLE baby goats, Reba and Barbara Jean. Booths were set up by sponsor • SKIN CONDITIONS OF THE FOOT organizations Candy’s Cats, Winter Garden Canines, Blackwood Nutrition, Mid Western Pets, Get your ALTA title insurance is one of the Getting owner’s Healing for Pets, Big Paw Trainer, MEDICARE & MOST INSURANCEsmartest ACCEPTED Homebuyer Guide atdecisions you’ll make and easiest alta.org/homebuyer. as a homebuyer. It’s a one-time purchase that Weruva, AlleyCat’s, Polka-dogz Our Office Policy: The patient and any other person responsible for payment has the right to refuse to pay; cancel payment protects your property rights as long as you

or be reimbursed for payment for any other service, examination or treatment whichor is performed a result of home. and within your heirsasown your 72 hours of responding to the advertisement for the free, discounted fee or reduced fee service, examination or treatment.

and Gainesville Rabbit Rescue. Dannenberg recently teamed up with Grace Community Church and sent more than 100 bags of dog food to Puerto Rico in the wake of devastating hurricane destruction. Dannenberg got the idea to make the donation after a customer bought a bag to donate through her church. She was so touched by the idea that she sold the dog food to the customer at cost, and then she decided to join the cause. For every bag purchased and donated to Puerto Rico, Dannenberg matched it. The secretary of Grace Community Church is from Puerto Rico, Dannenberg said, and she confirmed the dog food donation arrived and was distributed.

Amy Quesinberry

Reba, left, and Barbara Jean visited the celebration and were eager to eat out of anyone’s hands.

For more information, ask an ALTA member or visit homeclosing101.org.

Blair M. Johnson

This advertising is for informational purposes only. Actual coverages and your eligibility may vary by company and state. For exact terms,

THE PROTECTORS OF PROPERTY RIGHTS.

insurance company authorized to do business in your location.

WE INSPECT TITLES AND

Attorney At Law • 407-656-5521 425 South Dillard St. • Winter Garden, FL 34787

ADVOCATE FOR HOMEBUYERS.

WE SEEK A HIGH STANDARD OF ACCURACY.

WE PROVIDE WE ASSURE THAT LAND TRANSFER IS

EXPEDITIOUS AND SECURE. OUR COMMITMENT TO EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE

STRENGTHENS OUR MISSION.

WE REDUCE RISK SO THAT

HOMEBUYERS CAN REST ASSURED.

• Wills/Advance Directives • Estates • Corporation/LLC • Commercial transactions • Landlord/Tenant

JoAnne Quarles, C.L.C. office 407.654.8811 cell 407.758.4479 joanne@treasuretitle.com

Visit us in our NEW location! Suite 200B in the TD Bank Building 12200 W. Colonial Drive Winter Garden, FL 34787

For more information about owner’s title insurance, ask Treasure Title, an ALTA member.

• Real estate: Contracts, Closings, Short Sales, Deed in Lieu • And other matters 254805

WE ARE THE AUTHORITY IN REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS.

Proudly serving West Orange County for over 36 years. 254838

PEACE OF MIND.

www.blairjohnsonlaw.com

The Experts in Memory Care

“With my Moms type of Dementia, I couldn’t provide the 24 hour supervision and stimulation that my Mom required for a quality of life. I researched residential centers for months and Serenades was the only one that fit our needs of a caring, cheerful, stimulating home. I love that I have a key and can come and go to see her as I choose. I can’t say enough about the wonderful, loving care she gets.” Barbara B. 720 Roper Road • Winter Garden, FL 34787 • 407-614-8680 serenadesbysonata.com

ASSISTED LIVING FACILITY #12328

250329

WE ARE THE…

conditions, exclusions, eligibility and limitations, please contact a title INVESTIGATORS, ANALYSTS AND COUNSELORS,

CALL TODAY FOR A TOUR!

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

OCT. 17

13700 block of West Colonial Drive. A cashier at a supermarket reported a suspected shoplifting incident to police. Upon their arrival, the cashier informed them a female suspect wearing a navy tank top and multi-colored yoga pants was caught on camera taking a sub sandwich from the deli and a small drink without paying for them. The cashier confronted the woman before she exited the store and asked if she would pay for the food. The woman reportedly said, “No.” When the cashier threatened she would call the police, the woman replied, “Go ahead,” and proceeded to exit the supermarket. The woman then made her way to a 7-Eleven across the street, and employees informed the police officers that the woman was in the men’s restroom. The officers entered the restroom and noticed a woman who fit the supermarket cashier’s description. However, the woman now was wearing black pants. After searching the bags in her possession, the officers found the multi-colored yoga pants. It was determined the woman attempted to disguise her appearance to evade law enforcement. The woman was arrested. OCT. 19

13500 block of West Colonial Drive. At about 11:30 p.m., a police officer, located at a gas station food mart, and a cashier saw a man take an 18-pack of Bud Light beer and walk out of the food mart through the store’s rear exit. Once the officer and cashier realized he had not paid for the beer, which was worth

$15.99, the officer exited the store and confronted the man. The man then told the officer he had stolen the beer because he was an alcoholic who suffered withdrawals without constant alcohol. The man was arrested and charged with petit theft.

OCOEE OCT. 30

Wurst Road. At about 4:30 a.m., an officer on patrol stumbled upon a vehicle sitting still in the middle of Wurst Road. The officer sat in his patrol car behind the vehicle for a few minutes to see if the vehicle would move, but it did not. The officer then approached the vehicle’s driver side window and noticed the male driver was sleeping. The keys were still in the ignition with the gear in drive. The officer banged on the window several times in an attempt to wake up the driver. The driver opened his eyes for a few seconds and then returned to sleep without acknowledging the officer’s presence. The officer tried again. This time, the driver woke up, waved at the officer in greeting and rolled down his window. The officer asked if the driver was OK, and the driver said he was and asked why the officer was at his window. The man said he had just dropped some friends off from the bar and claimed he had not consumed any drinks himself, despite having a green plastic band on his wrist. The man was later arrested after failing to perform field-sobriety exercises correctly and transported to a DUI testing facility, where he refused to provide a breath sample.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2017

Your Grand Adventure Awaits! Discover how liberating, stress-free and filled with magic senior living can be! Windsor at Celebration will offer an all-inclusive lifestyle that is thoroughly modern. Exquisitely designed. And inspired by genius. Independent living, assisted living and memory care, all for a simple monthly fee.

A Senior Living Community It’s everything you have imagined for your best life possible...

in a magical location!

Call, click or visit us today to find out more about Windsor at Celebration... (407) 870-1561 info@WindsorAtCelebration.com WindsorAtCelebration.com Windsor at Celebration Discovery Center 715 Bloom Street, Suite 140 in Downtown Celebration Monday – Friday 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., or anytime by appointment

JUST IMAGINE!

249880

COPS CORNER

WINTER GARDEN

OPENING

SPRING 2018 AL Facility #: Pending

258420

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2017

SONATA WEST NOW ACCEPTING ASSISTED LIVING RESIDENTS

Celebrating 20 Years!

2017

Book Donations Supporting children in our community

At Sonata West, you can choose from 78 spacious Independent and 35 Assisted living units amid 139,000 square feet of thoughtfully designed and harmonious living space.

Now thru December 9th

2017 BOOK DROP OFF LOCATIONS

Experience the Lifestyle! • Exclusively deemed as Rental only, no up-front buy in • 24-Hour licensed nursing • On-site personal care assistance • Chef prepared meals • Activities to enhance your lifestyle • Transportation available

WINTER GARDEN • Axum Coffee 146 W Plant St • Garden Theatre 160 W Plant St • Winter Garden Library 805 E Plant St • Observer Media Group 720 S Dillard St • Purpose Church Orlando 13640 W Colonial Dr, #110

$500 deposit reserves

• Rotary Club of Winter Garden

Several floor plans sold out

• Winter Garden Chamber of Commerce 12184 W Colonial Dr

• Roper YMCA 100 Windermere Rd

your apartment today!

OAKLAND

(407) 654-3530

254016

• Mosaic Church 608 W Oakland Ave

420 Roper Road Winter Garden, FL 34787

NEW BOOKS PLEASE!

OCOEE • West Orlando Baptist Church 1006 E Crown Point Rd, Ocoee • House Blend Café 10730 W Colonial Dr • West Oaks Mall 9401 W Colonial Dr • Read To Sydney Inside West Oaks Mall, Near JCPenney • Smart Fitness 324 Moore Rd

WINDERMERE • Windermere Prep 6189 Winter Garden Vineland Rd • Windermere Library 530 Main St

DR PHILLIPS • Pammie’s Sammies 5907 Turkey Lake Rd #100 • Southwest Library 7255 Della Dr

Sponsored in part by

SONATAWEST.COM Assisted Living Facility License # 13099

RESORT-STYLE SENIOR LIVING

Call for more details 407-656-2121 • www.OrangeObserver.com

255782

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

256499

ALSO INSIDE: PREVIEW: A holiday cupcake challenge. 13

BLACK

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2017

ON A MISSION

ORANGEOBSERVER.COM

TIE

DANIELLE HENDRIX BLACK TIE EDITOR COLLEGE PARK

eceiving a cancer diagnosis at the age

of 14 — or at any age — can tear someone down. It also can spur them on. For College Park native Benjamin Watson, now 21, it was a catalyst for his determination to survive and help others like him through his own journey and experiences. THE DIAGNOSIS

Danielle Hendrix

Ben Watson, 21, founded the Benji Watson Cancer Foundation when he battled cancer at age 14.

Things first took a turn when, three weeks leading up to Ben’s diagnosis in October 2010, he started feeling sick. His parents took him to a local walk-in clinic, where they took X-rays and diagnosed him with pneumonia. Ben was prescribed an antibiotic and sent home. But a week later, he was only getting worse. A return visit to the clinic ended in the prescription of a different antibiotic. The next week, Ben still was home from school when he woke up screaming to his mom, Becky: “I can’t take it. I can’t breathe!” “She called me, and I ran home; we rushed him to the ER at Florida Hospital, and in a few hours, he was passed out in his room from the exhaustion,” said his dad, Barry Watson. “They came to us and they said, ‘We need to admit him immediately. He has cancer, and there’s a mass the size of a grapefruit on his chest.’ We immediately hit the floor. It’s like getting hit with a sledgehammer when someone tells you that.” Ben had received the diagnosis of non-Hodgkin’s large B-cell lymphoma. An aggressive, fastgrowing lymphoma — the most common blood cancer — this type can appear either in lymph nodes SEE VOICE PAGE 12

After being diagnosed with — and surviving — pediatric cancer, College Park native Ben Watson, now 21, has made it his mission to help families also impacted by it.

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2017

VOICE OF HOPE

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

TUESDAYS WITH MORRIE The Play

Saturday, December 9 | 8 p.m.

There is only one lesson… never give up on your dreams.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 11

or outside of the lymphatic system. “Basically, there started our journey,” Barry said. “From Oct. 1 to April 15, we were in nonstop treatment, chemo, radiation and everything else. He was up in Florida Hospital on the cancer floor with 20 or 30 other kids going through treatment.” ON A MISSION

Part of what helped get Ben through the treatment process, Barry said, is his love of music. Ever since he was a child, he played multiple instruments, sang and participated in musicals and plays. “He’s just always loved music,” Barry said. “He used to come home after chemo and radiation, take one-hour showers and just sing. The music helped get him through all this.” Along with the power of music, Ben carried on with the support of his friends, family and community. But he also watched other pediatric cancer fighters who didn’t have the resources he did. Ben had a handful of friends there with him every day after school sitting and praying with him but noticed that many of the other kids on his floor had no one. The parents couldn’t be there part of the time, and Ben took note. “I was up there for weeks when I was first being diagnosed (and treated), and I had more visitors than all the other kids combined,” Ben said. “It was weird to me and a new idea that so many people couldn’t take the time to be with their sick kid in the hospital. It just crushed me, so I wanted to be able to do something. I thought it was devastating to these kids to not have someone there with them, going through something so terrible.” THE FOUNDATION

That’s when Ben knew he had to do something. Now in remission, he is the founder of the Benji Watson Cancer Foundation, which hosts annual fundraisers to work with local oncologists, community members, hospitals and other nonprofit organizations in assisting families affected by pediatric cancer. These needs can include rent and mortgage payments, household bills, food and even special medicines or other medical equipment that aren’t covered

See the highly acclaimed stage production based on the autobiographical story of novelist Mitch Albom. The play recounts a series of visits between Albom his old college professor, Morrie Schwartz, that become poignant lessons on the real meaning of life.

IF YOU GO BENJI WATSON CANCER FOUNDATION’S FIRE & ICE BENEFIT WHEN: 6 to 10 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 2 WHERE: The Veranda in Thornton Park, 111 N. Summerlin Ave., Orlando DETAILS: Dubbed “one hot night for one cool cause,” this benefit is the Benji Watson Cancer Foundation’s annual fundraiser. There will be food catered by Dexter’s, an open bar, live deejay, free valet, a silent and live auction and entertainment by Radiant Illusions. TICKETS: $100 for adults; $50 for students WEBSITE: bensvoice.org

by insurance. While Ben and his family had the resources necessary for his treatment, it became his mission to support families who didn’t. And although he’s now a fulltime music student at the University of Central Florida, Ben remains actively involved as a board member and representative of the Benji Watson Cancer Foundation. He also is a certified EMT and is working on getting his real-estate license. In the last seven years, the foundation has raised more than $400,000 and helped more than 400 families. Some of the biggest requests from affected families include gas and food cards, as well as help with making electric bills and rent payments. “It is wonderful and uplifting to be able to see all these people you’re helping,” Ben said. “At the same time, it’s sad to know that there’s so many people that need all this help. But it’s a good feeling knowing that there are so many people out there that are willing to lend a hand to all these kids and families in need.” Seven years later, Barry said he still gets overwhelmed when he thinks about the fact that it all is the brainchild of his son, a cancer survivor. “It made us so proud of him and the fact that he reached out beyond his thing and wanted to help, that they (he and his friends) wanted to do something to give back and help (is incredible),” he said. “I still get choked up about it.”

TICKETS ON SALE NOW

at ClermontPAC.com and at the box office. Ask about special discounts when you buy multiple shows.

3700 S HWY 27 , CLERMONT, FL 34711 | 352.394.480 www.ClermontPAC.com BOX OFFICE 1 p.m. - 5 p.m. Tues, Thurs, Fri

254998

December 15, 2017 | 7:30PM

257053

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

Dress for Success Greater Orlando is preparing a festive, frosting-filled feast at its Cupcake Challenge this Sunday. The nonprofit’s seventh annual fundraiser, to be held Dec. 3 at the Winter Park Civic Center, will feature local bakeries competing to make the tastiest and most lavish cupcakes. Chefs and food bloggers will judge the treats before handing out awards. The tradition started nearly a decade ago — at the height of cupcake mania, said Dress for Success Greater Orlando President Renita Hunt. “A lot of bakeries started popping up (in Florida) that were cupcake-centered,” Hunt said. “Suddenly, everyone wanted cupcakes for weddings instead of regular cakes.” Although Dress for Success Greater Orlando used to hold a luncheon fundraiser, the organization phased it out in favor of a trendier cupcake competition in 2011. “We wanted something a little different,” Hunt said. “It was something outside of a luncheon and a little more casual than a

- MONDAYS -

FISH & CHIPS - TUESDAYS -

FISH TACOS - WEDNESDAYS -

BONELESS BUFFALO CHICKEN

IF YOU GO

to follow, and this year’s competition will be no exception. Cupcake Challenge 2017 is the “Holiday Edition,” and eight local bakeries will be making festive treats to celebrate the occasion. Families will be able to sample the treats, bid at a silent auction and take photos with Santa. Jillian Hopke, owner of Winter Park-based gourmet cupcake bakery Jillycakes, has been competing in the cupcake challenge since its second year. Jillycakes won the “Most Unique Flavor” award at the fifth cupcake challenge for its fried-and-glazed pumpkin cake filled with pumpkin butter and bacon bits. “It’s not the standard ‘help the kids’ event,” Hopke said. “It’s got a unique concept I don’t think is being offered by many other local charities.”

- THURSDAYS -

ONE FREE KIDS MEAL W/ EACH PURCHASE OF AN ENTRÉE

15% OFF EARLY BIRD SPECIALS

FAMILY FRIENDLY ATMOSPHERE 9467 W. Colonial Dr. in Ocoee

www.BatesNESS.com • 407-930-1136

New Dinner Service Hours 7 Days a Week • 4PM-10PM

BETWEEN 4-7

*NOT VALID FOR “ALL YOU CAN EAT” SPECIALS

COCO

FRI: 4:10P 7:10P 9:55P SAT: 1:10P 4:10P 7:10P 9:55P SUN: 1:10P 4:10P 7:10P MON-THURS: 4:10P 7:10P

1575 MAGUIRE RD. (1 BLK. OFF HWY. 50)

www.westorange5.com

407-877-8111

“Homemade Sandwiches and Snacks Available”

W. HWY 50

General $8.00 Child (2-12) $6.00 Senior (60+) $6.00 Matinee (before 5pm) $6.00 3D is an additional $2.00 per ticket

THESE SHOWTIMES FOR:

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 1 thru THURSDAY, DECEMBER 7 THE BEST MOVIE VALUE IN WO COUNTY

254991

DRESS FOR SUCCESS GREATER ORLANDO CUPCAKE CHALLENGE WHEN: 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 3 WHERE: Winter Park Civic Center, 1050 W. Morse Blvd., Winter Park TICKETS: $22 for adults; $12 for kids INFORMATION: greaterorlando.dressforsuccess.org

DADDY’S HOME 2

PG-13

JUSTICE LEAGUE

PG-13

FRI: 4:40P 7:40P 10:00P SAT: 1:40P 4:40P 7:40P 10:00P SUN: 1:40P 4:40P 7:40P MON-THURS: 4:40P 7:40P

FRI: 4:20P 7:20P 10:00P SAT: 1:20P 4:20P 7:20P 10:00P SUN: 1:20P 4:20P 7:20P MON-THURS: 4:20P 7:20P

MURDER ON THE ORIENT EXPR PG-13

FRI: 3:50P 6:50P 9:55P SAT: 12:50P 3:50P 6:50P 9:55P SUN: 12:50P 3:50P 6:50P MON-THURS: 3:50P 6:50P

THOR RAGNAROK

FRI: 4:00P 7:00P 10:00P SAT: 1:00P 4:00P 7:00P 10:00P SUN: 1:00P 4:00P 7:00P MON-THURS: 4:00P 7:00P

WONDER

FRI: 4:30P 7:30P 9:55P SAT: 1:30P 4:30P 7:30P 9:55P SUN: 1:30P 4:30P 7:30P MON-THURS: 4:30P 7:30P

PG-13 PG

258422

BLACK TIE REPORTER

(BEVERAGES NOT INCLUDED)

MAGUIRE RD.

HARRY SAYER

gala. Plus, families could bring their children.” Dress for Success, a national organization that started in 1997, provides business clothing to homeless or struggling women trying to enter the workforce. “It’s not just clothing to cover yourself; it’s clothing to build your confidence and to encourage you to get that position and keep it,” Hunt said. She said the Greater Orlando branch, which was established in Winter Park in 2001, suits 500 to 1,000 women from Daytona to Lakeland a year. “Unemployment is down now, but back when we started, we were dressing people in the thousands,” Hunt said. Dress for Success gets its clothes from donation drives, women’s groups and a partnership with Walmart. The organization has about 20 employees who fit the women with suits and store the clothes at its boutique in Winter Park Tech College. Hunt often receives letters and thank-you emails from women who were fitted at Dress for Success and went on to get jobs they needed. It touches her every time. “When I tell you the number of times that I’ve cried, and I’m not a traditionally crying person,” Hunt said. “That’s how touching it is. I’ve seen women fight through some tremendous situations and now they’re thriving.” Every cupcake challenge has a colorful theme for the bakeries

ALL-U-CAN-EAT ONLY $9.99 4-10PM

255051

Dress for Success Greater Orlando will give its annual cupcake competition a holiday twist at the Winter Park Civic Center Sunday.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2017

Frosted philanthropy

256469

BLACK

TIE

OrangeObserver.com

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2017

General Family Dentistry www.stevensoberdmd.com

Serving the West Orange & East Lake County Area Residents for 30 years! Accepting new patients

Daniels Rd.

Dillard St.

50/Colonial Dr KFC Wendy’s Windtree Professional Center

13330 W. Colonial Dr, Suite 120 Winter Garden, FL 34787

407-877-6666

254834

Located in the Windtree Professional Center (Behind KFC)

Hours: M-Th 8-5, F 8-12

We offer individualized care in a relaxed unhurried environment. Our focus has always been on the quality of your dental treatment to insure the best possible outcome for the long term. Network provider for Delta Dental, MetLife, CIGNA, Aetna, BC/ BS, Florida Combined Life, Humana, United Healthcare, & Dentemax PPO’s. Financing offered through Care Credit. Most major Insurances Accepted.

ADVERTORIAL

DID YOU KNOW? There are currently more than 4 million children and 1 million adults receiving orthodontic treatment from members of the AAO, which includes Dr. Alan Wong. Orthodontists receive an additional 2-3 years of specialized education beyond dental school to learn the proper way to align and straighten teeth. Only those with this formal education may call themselves “orthodontists” and only orthodontists may be members of the American Association of Orthodontists.

It’s the best time of year to get your braces! Modern Orthodontics offers SAME DAY BRACES appointments to get you on your way to a beautiful smile this summer! We offer free exams and low monthly payments to fit your individual needs. Call us today to schedule 352.242.1818. Same Doctor, 3 convenient locations: Clermont, Apopka, and Bushnell.

At Modern Orthodontics, your smile is our top priority! We realize our patients have options for choosing who will provide their orthodontic care. We are delighted to provide you the compassionate, personalized care you deserve at each visit. We offer many options for braces including ceramic, metal, Speed braces, gold, WildSmiles, and Invisalign. We offer free exams and low monthly payments to fit your individual needs. Call us today to schedule 352.242.1818! Offices CLERMONT, APOPKA & BUSHNELL.

Modern Orthodontics has been named Clermont, Apopka & Bushnell’s ONLY 2017 Premier Invisalign Provider. We offer both Invisalign and Invisalign Teen for a clearer option to straighten your teeth! The best part is, Invisalign is more affordable than you think!

here are three holiday entertainment events I call the “Holiday Trifecta.” Take your family to these three — Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” (theater), “Amahl and the Night Visitors” (opera) and “The Nutcracker” (ballet) — and you’ve more than done your duty by the holidaze.

‘AMAHL AND THE NIGHT VISITORS’

2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Dec. 9; 2 p.m. Dec. 10. Opera Orlando, now in its second season, already is calling “Amahl and the Night Visitors” a holiday tradition. Presented in (its original) English, Gian Carlo Menotti’s charming story, inspired by the journey of the Three Kings, was commissioned for television by NBC and was broadcast Dec. 24, 1951, as the debut production of the history-making Hallmark Hall of Fame. The first opera composed for television in America, 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. 257541

Braces

JOSH RECOMMENDS

Steven J. Sober, DMD

sees Opera Orlando offering a new, stunning production, designed and directed by Grant Preisser. Performed in the Pugh Theater at the Dr. Phillips Center, Music Director Robin Jensen will conduct musicians from the Orlando Philharmonic. For tickets, visit drphillipscenter.org.

CENTRAL FLORIDA BALLET’S ‘THE NUTCRACKER’

2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Dec 16; 2 p.m. Dec. 17. “The Nutcracker” gets special treatment by this company, and it has been noticed nationally for its efforts. Merging the classic fairytale with more pyrotechnics (cloud effects and small explosions) than any seen in any ballet before (or since), the Central Florida Ballet will present three performances of its renowned “Nutcracker” at the Orange County Convention Center. Unique to Central Florida, the company consulted with people at the theme parks to create its exciting special effects, leading to a feature in the Wall Street Journal and USA Today and being named “one of five outstanding productions in the entire nation” by CNN Headline News. New this season, Director Vasile Petrutiu announced custom-built sets from Russia. For tickets, visit centralfloridaballet.com.

ORLANDO BALLET’S ‘THE NUTCRACKER’ AND ‘THE NUTCRACKER FAMILY SHOW’

Dec. 21 to 24. The Orlando Ballet’s magical journey to a fantasy world promises the kind of performance that makes little girls wish to become ballerinas. Including a performance on Christmas Eve, the on-stage

Orlando Ballet

Christmas Ev a gift from he Clara grow in perhaps, the s love.” After a Mouse King, becomes a ha who introduc Ginger, the Su and a host of Everyone will snow and can holiday classi hour perform audiences (11 activities for show. “‘The N annual holida many familie opportunity t for the first ti tor Robert Hi visit drphillip

Dr. Alan Wong, DMD • Dr. Ana Garcia, DDS

Winter Wonderland Saturday, December 2

11am - 3pm

BrAceS inViSAliGn®

FREE 0% CONSULTATION INCLUDING

Braces & Invisalign® FINANCING

+ FOR 1 FREE 0% 2XRAYS FINANCING FOR EVERYONE* 515 N PARK AVE, STE 107

APOPKA

REFERRAL NEEDED!

DOWN PAYMENT SPECIAL* New Patients Only

1455 E. HIGHWAY 50

CLERMONT

*Start 2 or more patients same day and down payment required will be same as a single treatment start. 2 or more patients must begin treatment before 1/31/16 to take advantage of special. Offer not combinable with any other offer or discount. Valid one time use only. Must present ad at initial consultation. Valid for new patients only. Down payment special excludes Invisalign®.

65 CR 542 W.

BUSHNELL

M. Wong, DMD 407.703.2744Alan • www .TheTHEMODERNSMILE.COM ModernSMile.coM 352.242.1818

112 Rock Springs Rd., Apopka LE.COM

50, Clermont

255053

CONSULTATION INCLUDING XRAYS*

The Liberty Express train will be providing rides from 11am-2pm.

65 CR 542 W., Bushnell

1455 E. Highway 50, Clermont

For More Information visit

www.TheGroveOrlando.com/SpecialEvents /TheGroveOrlando 4750-4757 The Grove Drive | Windermere, FL At the corner of Apopka-Vineland and Conroy-Windermere Roads

257806

FOR EVERYONE

“Se Habla Español”

Join us in The Grove’s piazza which will transform into a winter wonderland with none other than Santa and Mrs. Claus! Enjoy a play area with real snow, face painting, stilt walkers and more!

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

London comes to life in a new — and different — adaptation of the classic. This brilliant troupe made its name scaring audiences by performing ghost stories at Halloween. Now, it has its hands on a Christmas classic. For tickets, call (407) 476-5121 (Orlando Shakespeare Center); (386) 7361500 (Athens Theater); or (407) 321-8111 (Wayne Densch Arts Center).

IRT-1848C-A

254857

17301 Pagonia Road Ste 100 Clermont, FL 34711 407-654-4915

Bruce Young, CFP®, CRPC® Financial Advisor

www.edwardjones.com

Member SIPC

17301 Pagonia Road Ste 100 Clermont, FL 34711 407-654-4915

BACK PAIN?

Discover

Gentle Chiropractic! Dr. JO J. reeves, CHIROPRACTOR 407-656-0390

424 N DillarD St • WiNter GarDeN, Fl Hi, I’m Dr. Jo Reeves. I have extensive professional training in chiropractic, including my gentle approach in adjusting. My educational background includes 6 years of college, Doctorate degree from the prestigious Palmer GENTLE CHIROPRACTIC HAS BEEN EFFECTIVE TREATING: College of Chiropractic as well as post graduate studies in orthopedics. • Back Pain • Headaches • Shoulder Pain Our patients have discovered the effectiveness of GENTLE SPECIFIC CHIROPRACTIC ADJUSTING. Our therapy department, including a licensed • Neck Pain • Arthritis • Painful Joints massage therapist and acupuncturist enables us to treat many varied conditions. • Stiffness • Numbness • Arm/Leg Pain Acute or chronic, mild or severe, if you are suffering, we have the facilities and training to help you. Most insurance accepted. Lic. # MM1720, MA32524 • Bursitis • Hip Pain • Cold Hands/Feet

254799

8 p.m. Dec. 15 and 16; 2 p.m. Dec. 17 (Orlando Shakespeare Center); 7:30 p.m. Dec. 21 (Athens Theater, Deland); 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Dec. 23 (Wayne Densch Arts Center, Sanford). Orlando’s own Victorian Grand Guignol Performance Troupe Phantasmagoria will present the best known and most loved “ghost story” of all time — Charles Dickens “A Christmas Carol, a Ghost Story of Christmas” in its own adaptation. This troupe will bring its signature onslaught of theatrical movement, dance, puppetry, projections, music and storytelling to the stage. Dickens’

www.edwardjones.com

Member SIPC

Financial Advisor

IRT-1848C-A

PHANTASMAGORIA’S ‘A CHRISTMAS CAROL, A GHOST STORY OF CHRISTMAS’

Bruce Young, CFP®, CRPC®

256402

ve party shows how er godfather helps n courage, poise and, stirrings of “first battle with the the toy nutcracker andsome cavalier ces Clara to Mother ugar Plum Fairy other characters. l enjoy the falling ndy canes at this ic including a onemance for young 1 a.m. Dec. 23) with children before the Nutcracker’ is an ay tradition for so es, but also a great to experience ballet ime,” Artistic Direcill said. For tickets, pscenter.org.

To learn more about why Edward Jones makes sense for

To learn more about whyyou, Edward sense for about why Edwar To learn more call or visitJones a financialmakes advisor today. you, call or visit a financial advisor today. you, call or visit a financial advis

t will present “The Nutcracker” Dec. 21 to 24.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2017

Dreaming Up the IdealDreaming Up the the Ideal Retirement IsDreaming Your Up Job. Retirement Is Yo Retirement Is Your Job. Helping You Helping Get There Is Ours. Helping You Get You Get There Is Ours.

ONE-MAN PRESENTATION OF ‘A CHRISTMAS CAROL’

7:30 p.m. Dec 22 and 23; 2 p.m. Dec. 24. David McElroy, Bruce Young, CFP®, CRPC® of Southern Winds Theatre, is Financial Advisor about to celebrate his 20th year . of performing a one-man 17301 Pagonia Road Stepro100 duction of “AFLChristmas Carol.” Clermont, 34711 Not407-654-4915 only is that some kind of performance record, but the great news is that, after seeing the production last season, I can say it is as moving and relevant as it was when Dickens’ fable was first published — 174 years ago. David McElroy is a theatrical tour-de-force as he takes on 37 different characters — with little more than a change of a piece of clothing and/or vocal inflection to define a character. It is a major compliment to say that, during the performance, I often forgot I was watching one person perform all the characters. He is that convincing. This solo interpretation works for both adults and children, and dazzles audiences in the process. Presented at the Blue Bamboo Center, 1905 Kentucky Ave in Winter Park. Call (407) 6369951 or visit bluebambooartcenter.com.

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2017

In love and remembrance this holiday season.

HONOR

your loved ones You and your family are invited to Join us for Woodlawn Memorial Park and Funeral Home’s

18th Annual

HOLIDAY REMEMBRANCE SERVICE

Amy Quesinberry

Pastor Casey Butner is leading the merged congregation of Powers Drive Baptist and Beulah Baptist churches. They meet at Beulah Baptist in Winter Garden.

Thursday, December 7, 2017

Powers Drive Baptist merges with Beulah Baptist Church

7:00PM

Carolers • Candle-Light Service Holiday Remembrance Tree Refreshments

AMY QUESINBERRY COMMUNITY EDITOR

Pastor Casey Butner is helping breathe new life into a historic church in Winter Garden, and he has brought a congregation with him. Butner was the pastor at the fledgling Powers Drive Baptist Church, in Pine Hills, and is now leading Winter Garden’s Beulah Baptist Church. Founded in 1861 as a community congregational church, Beulah is the oldest church in Orange County. In recent years, Powers Drive Baptist was down to 80 members, and Beulah had a mere 40. These days, though, after a successful merger of the two congregations, Beulah Baptist is experiencing rising numbers.

WOODLAWN MEMORIAL PARK 400 Woodlawn Cemetery Rd. Gotha, Fl 34734 407-293-1361 WoodlawnMemorialParkGotha.com

TOYS FOR TOTS

Please bring an unwrapped toy so a child can have a special holiday season.

258298

We Proudly Support

Join A

WINNING

A YEAR OF CHANGES

“The worship aspect on Sunday was so culturally diverse that we found that the community didn’t prefer to worship with our declining congregation,” Butner said of his old church. The church was struggling financially, and trying to operate a large church campus on a small budget was difficult. So Butner began considering a move to a

TEAM!

Advertising & Marketing Coordinator Winter Park/Maitland Observer

smaller location to save his membership. Ninety-four percent of his congregants, many of whom had gone to the Powers Drive church their entire lives, agreed a relocation was beneficial. By January, the decision to sell the property and relocate was made. Bishop Derrick W. Hutchins, of New Life Church of Orlando in Ocoee, had expressed an interest in purchasing the Powers Drive campus, so Butner invited him to speak at a revival. “He brought about 40 people with him,” Butner said. “We (had) about 200 at that revival. That filled up the bottom section of the sanctuary, and we were utilizing the building again. ... In my mind, our potential buyer had enough clout to be a legitimate buyer.” Butner and his congregation prayed for guidance for the next step, whether it be to buy an existing building or build a new facility. “Through that, five different people recommended for me to explore Beulah Baptist as a potential merge,” Butner said. “I said, ‘Lord, it doesn’t take a mathematician to find the common denominator here.’” In March, officials at both churches met.

PET OF THE WEEK

We need an awesome multitasking “plate spinner” who is great with details and people and who can assist our fast-paced sales team. The ideal candidate is a self-motivated and detail-oriented problem solver; has excellent customer service skills; and anticipates and executes what must be done before it’s needed.

If you would like your pet to be considered for the “Pet of the Week”... email your furry friend’s photo to: Contests@OrangeObserver.com

The ideal candidate has excellent written and interpersonal communication skills; stays calm under pressure; and always work with a can-do, upbeat, get-the-jobdone-on-time attitude. This job involves working as administrative support for our multimedia advertising sales executives. Our coordinators interact directly with customers and our graphic design team. They schedule advertising campaigns; disseminate marketing materials and sales collateral digitally to customers and prospects; set up and attend marketing events, exhibitions and sponsor-related events as needed; and help coordinate sponsorships and partnerships.

I was told it’s a hammock for two

SPONSORED BY MARK’S FLOORS

Akila Smith As a junior last season, Akila Smith was a leader for an Ocoee girls basketball team that went 21-6. This year, once she returns from an injury, the talented guard for the Knights hopes to take her team even farther. Most recently, Smith signed a National Letter of Intent with Longwood University.

THE BASICS

What was it about Longwood University that made you want to sign your NLI there? They really care for me, and they’ve been (recruiting) me since my freshman year. (My mom and I) went down there, and it just felt like home. They’re really good people, and it’s the best decision for me. Can you tell us about your injury? I have an ACL tear, and right now, I’m doing rehab. I’m four months into the rehab and waiting to be cleared. I’m hoping to be back by the end of the regular season. How important is it to you that you get back on the court this season? It’s very important. I want to play now, but I know that would be rushing it. The team graduated a large senior class from last year’s

SCHOOL: Ocoee High HOMETOWN: Orlando HEIGHT: 5-foot-11 POSITION: Guard OTHER SPORTS: Flag football FAVORITE BASKETBALL PLAYER: Kevin Durant

roster. What’s it like for you to be the senior leader now? It’s new, but they (the underclassmen) listen and stuff, so it’s easy with them to have them as teammates. Which game from the 201617 season was the most memorable? The last game we played last year, against West Port. We were down, and I didn’t give up and helped my team to get back into the game. What about your game are you focused on improving? Shooting — taking more shots. Which one of your teammates is the funniest? Zoe Spear.

Five full-court questions STEVEN RYZEWSKI SENIOR SPORTS EDITOR

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN ONE LOADED, YOUTHFUL ROSTER BECOMES TWO?

West Orange coach Shrell Chamberlain kept an unusually deep roster for the 2016-17 season for a reason: Chamberlain knew his talented group of underclassmen would be split when Windermere High opened this fall. After a strong 22-8 season, that happened, and several of the team’s promising players are now Wolverines. Standout guard Morgan Beacham returns to lead a talented group of allunderclassmen starters that includes Christina Kline, Sarah Placide, Katelyn Kinney, Kennedi Rodgers and Jania James. As always, local powerhouse Wekiva will be the team to beat in the Warriors’ district. As for Windermere, veteran coach Misty Cox is tasked with building this brand-new program with a lineup that contains no seniors. Cox calls her roster a “good, young foundation to build upon” and, in particular, is carrying five freshmen on varsity this fall, in addition to some of those such as Brianna Szymanski, a junior guard, who was a Warrior a season ago.

Kennedi Rogers, left, Christina Kline, Morgan Beacham, Sarah Placide and Katelyn Kinney are ready to lead the Warriors.

The Titans had a season to remember in 2016-17, making it to the state semifinals in Lakeland for the first time. But if they are going to duplicate that success, it will have to come with some new faces in new roles — particularly with a new head coach. Last year’s coach, Robert Carmody, stepped down over the summer to focus on other career opportunities, bringing in Thomas Passafaro, formerly the coach at Cornerstone Charter. The Titans also graduated some of the key senior leaders from last year’s team, but talented returners — such as Airyannah Moitt, Chenoa Johnson, Jazmyne Gelfand and Kate Fillenwarth — are not going to accept anything less than a fifth consecutive district title and a run in the playoffs. “They’re coming off of a successful year last year, and they all know what it takes to get that far,” Passafaro said. “But what’s nice, too, is that it is a completely different team.”

With a talented senior class and some signature wins to its credit, last year was supposed to have been “The Year” for the Ocoee girls basketball team — until it wasn’t. A bad break in district seeding meant a district semifinal matchup with West Port that kept the Knights from the playoffs. This year’s team will be anchored around Longwood signee Akila Smith — except that Smith will not be back until later in the season, possibly in time for districts. How a young, scrappy lineup will progress in the meantime will be interesting to watch as the Knights look to return to the playoffs.

HOW WILL OLYMPIA FOLLOW UP ITS BEST SEASON YET WITH A NEW COACH?

What subject in school is your favorite? I like chemistry. My teacher (Craig Mohn), he just made it easy, and he involved us a lot. What are you thinking you would like to do for a career? I would like to be a physical therapist or an athletic trainer. When I got injured as a sophomore, going to rehab and stuff and watching the athletic trainers, it made me want to do that for somebody else. What’s your favorite Thanksgiving dish? Macaroni (and cheese) from my auntie, Neddra Pratt. I honestly don’t even know why; it’s just really good. Maybe it’s all the different cheeses she uses. If you could have a free plane ticket to travel anywhere, where would you go? New York (City) — I’ve seen it on TV, and I think it would be cool to walk around. — STEVEN RYZEWSKI

3Push’em back,

WHO WILL BE THE LEADERS ON A YOUNG ROSTER FOR THE DR. PHILLIPS PANTHERS?

Athlete of the Week sponsored by:

Push’emback, back, clearly then-senior Tiffany TolPush’em waaaay back. Push’em Push’em back,back, Push’em back, waaaay back. Push’em back, waaaay back.

The 2016-17 Panthers were

3985 Hwy 19A Mount Dora, FL 32757 (352) 385-0303

Have our Mobile Showroom come to you!

Minneola Location 301 E. Washington St. Unit F

Minneola, FL 34715 (352) 394-0303 Follow us on

www.marksfloorsonline.com

407-656-1040 13330 Bus: W Colonial Drive Craig Agent 13330 WA Martin, Colonial Drive Se habla Español Winter Garden, FL 34787 13330 W Colonial Drive Winter Garden, FL 34787 Garden, FL 34787 Bus:Winter 407-656-1040 Bus:407-656-1040 407-656-1040 Se Bus: habla Español

habla Español SeSehabla Español

35%* * 35% Get discounts how you can save money by * upor to Call, switching click, visit on your car tovisit theon #1insurance team. and Call, click, or35% your

P090234.1 P090234.1

how you can save money by State Farm Indemnity Company • Bloomington, IL *Discounts vary by state. switching to the #1 team. State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company State Farm Indemnity Company • Bloomington, IL

HOW WILL NEW-LOOK OCOEE FARE IN THE TIME BEFORE STAR AKILA SMITH RETURNS?

WILL LEGACY CHARTER BUILD UPON LAST SEASON’S SURPRISE SUCCESS?

The Eagles, who are fielding a team for just the third season, had some breakout success in 2016-17. Legacy went 11-9 and made the playoffs behind Tya Freeman’s 21.9 points per game. Freeman will be a junior this season, and if the roster continues to improve under head coach Blessing Freeman, this will be a team to watch.

LOOKING BACK: 2016-17 SEASON HIGHLIGHTS n Olympia made it to the state semifinals for the first time as a program before falling to Boca Raton. n West Orange made the playoffs and upset Colonial in the first round, but was defeated by Wekiva in the regional semifinals. n Ocoee went 21-6 and earned big-time wins over Wekiva and Evans, among others, but did not advance out of the district tournament. n The First Academy won its district and advanced to the regional semifinals. n Legacy Charter made the playoffs for the first time after finishing as district runner-up.

GO ONLINE To learn more about new Olympia coach Thomas Passafaro, visit ObserverPreps. com for a video interview with the Titans’ new head coach.

Get hooked on great Service! Trane Comfort Specialists. Quality Work & Customer Satisfaction is our #1 Priority Call us and catch a great deal!

407-470-7014

1319 Green Forest Ct, Suite 412 Winter Garden, FL 34787

35%*

C Martin Ins and Fin Svcs Inc Get discounts Craig A Martin, Agent up to 13330 W Colonial Drive CALL FOR A QUOTE 24/7. Winter Garden, FL 34787 Call, click, or visit on your *Discounts vary by state. Bus: 407-656-1040 State Farm Mutual Automobilecar Insurance Company insurance and find out P090234.1 State Farm Indemnity Company • Bloomington, IL *Discounts vary by state. Se habla Español State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company

bert’s team. With Tolbert now a freshman at the University of North Florida, it remains to be seen which of coach Anthony Jones’ talented young players will emerge as this season’s top playmakers. In the preseason and through one regular-season game, Truly Le, Zoe Alexander and Courtney Afram-Gyening have shown some scoring ability, while Alexander figures to be the Panthers’ top rebounder.

SALES • SERVICE • INSTALLATION • MAINTENANCE

car insurance and find out how you can save money by switching to how the #1 team. findclick, out you canyour save money by switching Like good neighbor, Call, or avisit on car insurance and find out Like good the #1 neighbor, team. cartoainsurance and findisoutthere.® State Farm ® State Farm is there. how you can saveState money by how you can save money by Like a good neighbor, Farm is there.® CALL FOR A QUOTE 24/7. CALL FOR A QUOTE 24/7. switching to the #1 team. switching to the #1 team. CALL FOR A QUOTE 24/7. Like a good neighbor, Like a good neighbor, ® State Farm is there. State Farm is there.® CALL FOR A QUOTE 24/7.

255397

Mount Dora Location

C Martin Ins and Fin Svcs Inc Craig A Martin, Agent 13330 W Colonial Drive C Martin Ins and Fin Svcs Inc Get discounts Winter FL 34787 Craig A Garden, Martin, Agent up toclick, or visit on your C Martin Ins and Fin Svcs Inc GetCall, discounts 13330 W Colonial Drive C Martin Ins and Fin Svcs Inc Bus: 407-656-1040 car insurance Craig A Martin, Agent Winter Garden, FL 34787 to and find out Call, click, or visitup on your Se habla Español Craig A Martin, Agent C Martin Ins and Fin Svcs Inc

256745

* Carpet * Tile * Hardwood * Vinyl * Laminate

Push’em Push’em back,back, waaaay back. back, Push’em Get discounts back. * waaaay up to 35%

Steven Ryzewski

www.DuncansACOrlando.com

255014

SPORTS SPOTLIGHT

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

GIRLS HOOPS PREVIEW

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2017

STEVEN RYZEWSKI SENIOR SPORTS EDITOR

CAN CFCA BREAK THROUGH AS A TITLE CONTENDER?

CFCA is emerging as a force in the local hoops scene, and a trip to Lakeland would cement its status as a private-school powerhouse. It is Army signee Dante Treacy’s final season on campus, and Evans transfer Jordan Preaster and Montverde transfer Bryce Street joined the talented guard to try and make a run at the final four.

HOW GOOD CAN THE LAKERS BE — AND WILL BALSA PLAY?

Windermere Prep’s roster is oozing with talent — whether it’s senior guard Rahsaan Lewis, senior forward Shaquan Jules or any of the Lakers’ other standouts. With that said, expectations are once again high for coach Ben Wilson’s team. The big question, though, is whether 7-foot-1 transfer Balsa Koprivica will play this season. Windermere Prep currently is holding Koprivica — whose name was mentioned in reports surrounding the FBI probe into college basketball corruption — out until they are positive he has been cleared.

HOW FAR CAN LOVE BROTHERS AND OTHER PLAYMAKERS TAKE DP IN FIRST YEAR UNDER DAN BATCHELOR?

Dan Batchelor has been on the staff at Dr. Phillips for years, but he’s getting acclimated to the difference from being an assistant to the head coach this season — Batchelor was promoted to replace longtime head coach Anthony Long. Luckily for Batchelor, he has the Love brothers — Mercer signee Daniel and junior guard Dante — to try and maintain the program’s standard of excellence.

WHO WILL EMERGE AS THE NEW PLAYMAKERS FOR THE NEW-LOOK ROYALS?

It’s no small task to replace an outgoing class that included Wake Forest freshman Chaundee Brown and helped The First Academy to a 26-2 record last season, but longtime coach Chris Mayberry is up to the challenge. The Royals will lean on returners such as Cam Williams, Joe Deluzio, Ben Radcliffe and Steve Branch while welcoming transfers Elwood Tomlinson and Greg Gallon to the fold. Although the star power may not be quite the same, the Royals have plenty of depth and potential.

IS WEST ORANGE A DARK-HORSE PLAYOFF THREAT WITH ITS ATHLETICISM AND DEPTH?

Troy signee K.J. Simon leads a West Orange team that made the playoffs last season and has enough athleticism and depth to play with anybody. A preseason game against Windermere Prep showcased what may well become a strategy for West Orange, as the Warriors’ ability to continually sub in fresh athletes and run the floor proved to be a lot to handle.

Steven Ryzewski

Brothers Dante Love, left, and Daniel Love — a Mercer signee — should be a big part of whatever success Dr. Phillips will have this winter in Dan Batchelor’s first year as the Panthers’ head coach. “They’re extremely competitive with one another,” Batchelor said. “And then in the games, they’re extremely supportive of one another.”

LOOKING BACK: 2016-17 SEASON HIGHLIGHTS n In longtime coach An-

thony Long’s final season, Dr. Phillips upset Riverview in the first round of the playoffs before losing to Oak Ridge in the regional semis. n Windermere Prep had its season end earlier than expected by way of a controversial ending in a 72-70 loss to The Villages in the Class 5A Regional Semifinals. n West Orange made the playoffs and was defeated in the first round by Boone. n Ocoee won its district but was defeated by Hagerty in the first round of the playoffs. n The First Academy had a stellar season but was upset in the Class 4A Regional Final by Seffner Christian. n CFCA won its district and romped Merritt Island Christian in the first round of the playoffs before dropping a 45-40 thriller to Melbourne’s Florida Prep in the regional finals.

WHAT ROLES WILL DEPTH, INEXPERIENCE PLAY FOR NEW PROGRAM AT WINDERMERE?

To launch a new program, Windermere High turned to a veteran coach. Mark Griseck is the head coach for the Wolverines, aided by his son Trey Griseck and former Olympia coach Matt Wheeler as assistants. Although

SEE HIM LIVE Although Montverde Academy is not covered by Observer Preps, we still recommend hoops fans go check out the nearby private-school dynasty in action. The best reason to do so, in addition to seeing some great basketball, is that Montverde senior R.J. Barrett, a Duke signee, is projected as a possible No. 1 pick in the 2019 NBA Draft. Visit MVAsports. com for Montverde’s schedule this season.

the Wolverines have no seniors, they have a Division I prospect in forward Dakota Rivers and young players — including freshman Trey Moss — who are exciting prospects. The big question will be whether the Wolverines have enough depth and experience to compete night in and night out against a tough schedule.

WHAT SORT OF GROWING PAINS WILL A TALENTED, YOUNG OCOEE ROSTER INCUR THIS WINTER?

John “Sarge” Siers is in his third year as the head coach for the Knights and fresh off winning the program’s first district title last season. While senior forward Jamel Pierre will play a big role in leading this team, Ocoee skews young. Siers is particularly excited about his sophomore class. Whether the Knights’ young up-and-comers will gel in time for the district tournament will be the key to this team returning to the playoffs.

WHAT DOES YEAR ONE OF THE ROB GORDON ERA LOOK LIKE AT OLYMPIA?

After two years as the head coach at Evans, Rob Gordon has returned to Olympia High, where he got his start as an assistant under Mark Griseck. Gordon’s roster at Olympia will be heavy on talented guards, including Jordan Grant, Mykarri Hodges and Jalen Brinson.

10 CAN’TMISS GAMES n IMG Academy at Windermere Prep 7 p.m. Dec. 5 n Apopka at Olympia 7:30 p.m. Dec. 8

n CFCA vs. Master’s Academy (at Windermere Prep) 7 p.m. Dec. 9

The Lions had their share of learning experiences in head coach Dejon Everson’s first year last season, as they ended up with a 6-21 record. Everson is hopeful this fall that returners such as Greg Henderson, Eddie Loos, Jonathan Richardson and Alex McKee will gel with newcomers Jarrel Franklin, Rashawn Plummer and Earvin Smith to take a big step forward this winter.

n Dr. Phillips at Oak Ridge 7 p.m. Dec. 13

HOW WILL THE LIONS PROGRESS IN COACH DEJON EVERSON’S SECOND YEAR?

WHO WILL STEP UP FOR LEGACY TO REPLACE ADAM PUEBLA’S SCORING ABILITY?

Adam Puebla led Legacy in scoring the past two seasons, meaning his graduation this past spring creates a void that will have to be filled on the offensive end. Now a junior, Nathan Rodriguez was the Eagles’ second-leading scorer last season (11.9 points per game), and Dylan Clinger also was formidable on the offensive end. The Eagles also have a new coach in Caio Santos, who replaces Matthew Post.

n Olympia at Dr. Phillips 7 p.m. Dec. 15 n Windermere at West Orange 7:30 p.m. Dec. 15 n Windermere Prep at First Academy 7:30 p.m. Jan. 19 n West Orange at Ocoee 2:30 p.m. Jan. 27 n CFCA at Windermere Prep 7 p.m. Jan. 30 n Hagerty at Windermere 7 p.m. Jan. 30

BOYS HOOPS PREVIEW

10 teams, 10 questions

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2017

Eight storylines to follow on the pitch trict tournament this season. The girls team is coached by Rodney Rooplal and is looking to improve upon its 5-3-2 mark from 2016-17.

STEVEN RYZEWSKI SENIOR SPORTS EDITOR

The landscape for boys and girls soccer promises to be as competitive as ever this winter. Here are eight storylines to follow as the season heats up while the temperatures cool down.

NEW TEAMS

“ROAD WARRIORS”

School and county officials continue to work to resolve issues with the synthetic turf at West Orange High, dating back to when Hurricane Irma knocked over two of the light poles at the school’s stadium. Because of that, both the boys and girls soccer teams are facing the possibility of all road games, with the hope of a home game at very end of the season, if at all. Both West Orange teams made the playoffs in 2016-17 and have high expectations entering this season, but a season as “road Warriors” throws an interesting wrinkle in those plans.

TITANS WANT MORE

Olympia High’s boys soccer team and its girls soccer team each had successful regular seasons last year that ended earlier than planned. After winning 24 matches, the Olympia boys fell in the first round of the playoffs; and after going 10-2-3, the Titans girls did not advance out of their district. Veteran boys coach Lou Romao said his team — led by wing Andrew Lizyness — will take it one match at a time this winter as it looks to bring along a group of younger players with

Steven Ryzewski

The Ocoee soccer team hopes to return to the playoffs this fall.

Dave Jester

Carmel de Oliveira will be a leader for the Dr. Phillips girls soccer team this fall.

bigger roles. The girls team has several talented returners, but coach Deepak Shivraman’s team also will have to weather some early injury troubles.

PANTHER POTENTIAL

After going 11-6-2 last winter, returners Carmel de Oliveira and Maddison Lamb, along with talented freshman newcomer Jill Ross, are hoping to take the Panthers to the

playoffs. Already, Dr. Phillips has raced out to a 4-0 start and, including a preseason victory, the Panthers have outscored opponents 18-0 so far in coach Donald George’s second year.

PLAYOFF RETURN?

Coach Pete Moore’s Knights last made the playoffs in 2013, but Ocoee is annually a deceptively competitive team. Although Ocoee went

9-12 in 2016-17, the Knights had big wins to their credit and Ocoee enjoyed a midseason stretch where it won seven of eight games. This year’s team will lean on talented youngsters such as Joshua Sandoval to help it get over the hump and return to the postseason.

PROGRAM GROWTH AT FOUNDATION

While other programs at Foundation Academy may have earned more attention, the boys and girls soccer programs have quietly continued to build and become formidable. Coached once again by Ashton Baptiste, the Lions boys team went 8-3-2 last year, and Baptiste feels Foundation has a shot at advancing past the dis-

The Windermere Wolverines will field brand-new soccer teams without seniors this winter — but that doesn’t mean either Wolverines team is counting itself out in their respective district races. Alex Ferreira is the head coach for the boys team, and Trenton Frederick is head coach for Windermere High’s girls team. Additionally, Legacy Charter will field a girls team for the first time after formerly fielding a co-ed team. Niel Tate is the coach for the Eagles’ girls team.

NEW LEAGUE

Not only are there some new teams, but there also is a newly formed league with the Sunshine State Athletic Conference’s addition of boys and girls soccer. Teams from Windermere Prep, CFCA and Legacy Charter will compete in the league. Windermere Prep and Legacy will also compete in their traditional districts.

FOLLOW-UP ACT?

The First Academy’s girls soccer team advanced all the way to the regional championship in Class 1A in 2016-17. Can the Royals mimic their success from a season ago? So far, TFA is off to a bit of a slow start, with a 1-3 record against tough competition.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2017

PRESENT

5K RUNNERS PRE-REGISTER BY NOVEMBER 26 TO BE GUARANTEED A SHIRT!

To benefit these local organizations...

Winter Garden Village at Fowlers Grove Winter Garden • Florida Special finisher awards will be given to all 5K finishers and Fun Run participants! 5K Age Group Awards will be presented to the top three male and female overall and to the top masters male and female. Age group awards will be presented to the top three male and female finishers in standard 5 year age groups. For more information and to register online visit: www.trinrun.com Sponsored in part by...

6:00AM - Race Day Registration & Packet Pickup 7:00AM - 5K Run 8:15AM - Kids Fun Run Venue Sponsor...

$25.00 - Pre-registered by November 26 (T-Shirt Guaranteed)

$30.00 - Late and Race Day Registration after November 26

(T-Shirts available while supplies last) FREE - Kids Fun Run (Ages 3-7) Register Day of Race Only. (No Shirt Only Finisher award) please bring a “New” book for Reading Reindeer Photo Sponsor...

magineThatPromo.com

258751

SOCCER PREVIEW

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

Jason Boltus steps down at Ocoee The first-year head coach and former offensive coordinator for the Knights confirmed his resignation last week.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2017

24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE

License # CMC 056836

STEVEN RYZEWSKI SENIOR SPORTS EDITOR

255003

407-654-3777 • www.appleac.com

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

Jason Boltus said the decision to step down as head coach of the Ocoee High football team came because he and his wife plan to move back to upstate New York.

program had two of its strongest seasons since the school opened in 2005. Boltus was promoted to head coach after Bullock departed for the head coaching job at Lake Highland Prep in Orlando. The Knights’ roster was rocked in the offseason by a wave of transfers and the graduation of several of its leaders from the 2016 team. Ocoee went 1-9 in 2017, but Boltus said the Knights have several returning players with a lot of potential to return the program to the heights it achieved in 2016. “Our record this season doesn’t show even close to what we have,” Boltus said. “The young talent

Eat, Play & Stay Healthy West Orange!

we have will be a force to reckon with.” Boltus, who also won an Arena Football championship this year as the quarterback for the Jacksonville Sharks, said his future in coaching is uncertain. He added that he enjoyed his experience as head coach at Ocoee. “I enjoyed all the kids — as a head coach, you oversee all of the position groups as opposed to (just one),” Boltus said. “I enjoyed building a ton of relationships with all the kids. ... I learned a lot on how to delegate responsibilities. I like coaching, so it’s a bittersweet thing.”

‘Tis the season for giving... The Habitat for Humanity ReStore needs volunteers: • Electronic Product Testers • Lifters to Move Furniture • Administrative Support • Handymen/women • Social Media Specialists Contact Aaron, ReStore Manager at (407)904-0406

West Orange Habitat for Humanity ReStore 13369 West Colonial Drive

(between 9th and Dillard Street, behind Taco Bell in Winter Garden)

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

www.westorangehabitat.org

258258

Jason Boltus has stepped down as the head coach of the Ocoee High football team after one season at the helm. Boltus confirmed Nov. 20 he resigned the prior week. He said the decision came because he and his wife intend on moving back to upstate New York, where they can be closer to family. “That was the (only) reason — it was a hard decision with the kids and the program,” Boltus said. “At the end of the day, I had to put family first. I want to be close to family and had some opportunities back home.” Boltus said the opportunities back home include a chance to become more involved with his father's company, Action Technical Services. Boltus was formerly the offensive coordinator for the Knights in 2015 and 2016 under thenhead coach Ben Bullock. During that span, the Ocoee football

Cookies & Cocktails

DECEMBER 9, 2017

Healthy Holidays West Orange! Share your best recipes for healthy holiday cookies or cocktails and you could win a $100 gift card to The Vineyard Wine Bar & Healthy Bistro.

Present...

& Kids Fun Run

Now through Christmas Day, post your recipes (and photos!) to our Facebook page: Facebook/HealthyWestOrange using #HealthyWestOrange.

Winter Garden Village at Fowlers Grove Winter Garden Village at Fowlers Grove Winter Garden • Florida Winter Garden • Florida

Supporting

Active Healthy Living at every stage of life!

402 Lakeview Road in Winter Garden • (407) 654-7217 • www.goldenpondcommunities.com

Let’s make West Orange the healthiest community in the nation! Join us at www.HealthyWestOrange.org.

254644

ASSISTED LIVING AND MEMORY CARE • 24 HOUR NURSING

244659

Assisted Living Facility #9626

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2017

CITY OF OCOEE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING 10-YEAR WATER SUPPLY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AMENDMENT NOTICE IS HEREBY given that the City of Ocoee Planning & Zoning Commission, acting as the LOCAL PLANNING AGENCY, will consider a proposed text amendment to the City of Ocoee Comprehensive Plan establishing and amending elements for the purpose of incorporating the 10-Year Water Supply Plan into the Comprehensive Plan according to subsection 163.3177(6) (c) Florida Statutes.

258664

The LOCAL PLANNING AGENCY will hold a public hearing on the proposed Large Scale Amendment on TUESDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2017 AT 7:00 PM or as soon thereafter as practical. The public hearing will be held in the City Hall Commission Chambers located at 150 North Lakeshore Drive, Ocoee.

258585

CHURCH DIRECTORY BAPTIST

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 125 E Plant St., Winter Garden 407-656-2352 Sundays 8:30 am Traditional 9:45 am Bible Study 11:00 am Contemporary Awana - Wednesdays - 6pm Pastor Tim Grosshans www.fbcwg.org 2nd Campus: “FOUNDATION WORSHIP” Sundays 9:45 am - All Ages at Foundation Academy High School 15304 Tilden Road - Winter Garden www.FoundationWorship.com 407.730.1867 STARKE LAKE BAPTIST CHURCH PO Box 521, 611 W Ave, Ocoee Pastor Jeff Pritchard (407) 656-2351 www.starkelakebaptist.org

CHURCH OF GOD

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

EPISCOPAL

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

METHODIST

FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 125 N. Lakeview Ave Winter Garden Service Times 9:00 AM and 11:15 AM Phone – 407-656-1135 Web: fumcwg.org

UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST

Advertise your Services or Events on this page weekly. This page appears weekly in the West Orange Times & Observer and online at wotimes.com.

WINDERMERE UNION CHURCH 10710 Park Ridge-Gotha Rd. Windermere, FL 34786 407-876-2112 Worship times: 9:00am Adult Sunday School 10:00am Worship www.windermereunion.org

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

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

What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul? Mark 8:36 (NIV)

ONE MONTH

FREE

with first 5 approved applications

Interested in a Montessori Education, with a Christian Worldview, for your preschool child? Learn more now by emailing Preschool Director Ginger Allen at ginger@MatthewsHopeMinistries.org

Please come out and meet our staff and take a tour of the facility.

407.905.9500

740 9th St., Winter Garden, FL 34787

MatthewsHopeMinistries.org

www.facebook.com/MatthewsHopeFirmFoundation/

257098

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

W EAT HER

OrangeObserver.com

I LOVE WEST ORANGE

Windermere resident Kim Warp submitted this beautiful photo taken on Lake Butler. “Grateful for this view,” she said.

The West Orange Times and Observer is hosting this weekly contest, and winners will have their photograph featured and receive a $20 prize. To enter, email your photo, along with your name, city and a caption, to amyq@ orangeobserver. com; put “I Love West Orange” in the subject line. Please include your mailing address to receive your prize.

ONLINE

FORECAST THURSDAY, NOV. 30 High: 80 Low: 61 Chance of rain: 20%

FRIDAY, DEC. 1 High: 79 Low: 59 Chance of rain: 10%

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2017

SUNRISE / SUNSET

Sunrise Sunset

Thursday, Nov. 30

7:01a

5:29p

Friday, Dec. 1

7:01a

5:29p

Saturday, Dec. 2

7:02a

5:29p

Sunday, Dec. 3

7:03a

5:29p

Monday, Dec. 4

7:04a

5:29p

Tuesday, Dec. 5

7:04a

5:29p

Wednesday, Dec. 6

7:05a

5:29p

MOON PHASES

SATURDAY, DEC. 2 High: 76 Low: 60 Chance of rain: 10%

Nov. 26 First

Dec. 3 Full

Dec. 10 Last

Dec. 17 New

RAINFALL Tuesday, Nov. 21

0.10

SUNDAY, DEC. 3

Wednesday, Nov. 22

0.00

High: 76 Low: 58 Chance of rain: 10%

Thursday, Nov. 23

0.01

Friday, Nov. 24

0.01

Saturday, Nov. 25

0.00

Sunday, Nov. 26

0.00

Monday, Nov. 27

0.00

See other winning photos at OrangeObserver.com

YEAR TO DATE:

NOV. TO DATE:

2017 51.71 in.

2017

.15 in.

2016 47.95 in.

2016

.31 in.

LETTERS TO SANTA

Hey kids! Write your letter to Santa and drop it off Now thru December 15th at either of these two locations. • Observer Office, 720 S Dillard St., Winter Garden • West Oaks Mall, 9401 W Colonial Dr., Ocoee

Santa is Here!

Ask about the “Selfie with Santa” - an exclusive at West Oaks Mall ONLY!!

258439

www.WestOaksMall.com

Mall Hours: Mon - Sat 10AM - 9PM, Sun Noon - 6PM • Closed Christmas • Christmas Eve & New Year’s Eve: Noon-6PM • New Year’s Day: 10AM - 6PM 107 Grunted “Yep” 108 Wild verbal outburst 110 Many garden plants 114 Feeling no stress 118 It’s in the crosshairs 119 ___ Boys of old-school party rap 120 No longer at full strength 121 Stately horses 122 Something everyone does 123 Calm

59 Reggae forerunner 60 Large Pakistani city 61 Downhill glider 62 Be disorderly? 63 Japanese waist wraps 64 One way to avoid a balance at pickup 65 Real attachment? 66 Hunter’s clue in a forest 67 Singer Haggard 68 Vast blue section of a map 69 Walker’s implement, DOWN sometimes 1 Smartphone program 70 Medical picture 2 Be competitive 77 Thin, leaflike structures in 3 Mo. of beautiful foliage the cerebellum 4 More diluted 78 Research writer’s “that is” 5 “You’re in for ___ treat!” 79 Wren’s “Beau ___” 6 Place for Odd Fellows 81 Wordiness 7 Oft-passed sidepiece 82 Pilgrimage, for some 8 Prime barbecued morsel 83 It can lead to a solution 9 “___ see what I can do” 84 Bridge measurement 10 Wallach who played Mr. 85 How many like their matFreeze tresses 11 Mender’s hodgepodge 86 Hostilities pouch 12 Paints outside the lines? 88 Ship partition 90 Kept watch over 13 Inexact fig. 92 Sensitive subject for 14 Worked the sauce some 15 Some battery terminals 95 Lab duplicates 16 Use to one’s advantage 96 Sunday songbook 17 Smallest of change 97 Govt. medical research 18 City in the Ruhr Valley center 21 Seek divine help 99 Vertical ship posts 27 Potato bud 30 Data for fantasy football 100 Eastern Europe church member participants 101 Ballerina’s leg supporter 31 Whetstone user 102 Chesapeake Bay crus32 One of the largest living tacean lemurs 103 Liquefies 33 Warts and all 104 Homeschooled student 34 Not even a whit 109 Long distance travelers 35 PC’s reverse command 111 Get value from 36 Ripken and his dad 112 Had a hot tamale 37 X or Y line 113 It’s right under your nose 42 Shiny fabric 115 Alias lead-in 44 Playground structure 116 Tennis match unit 45 Prefix with “path” 46 Something an eyelid does 117 “... ___ he drove out of sight ...” 47 Safecrackers

ACROSS

1 Frank affirmation 7 Laundromat staples 13 Successfully participate in a jailbreak 19 Rogue or scoundrel 20 Light source with a wick 22 Barrel slats 23 Stroked an Abyssinian 24 Accommodator 25 An NFL team 26 More than ready and willing 28 Ovine utterance 29 Major river of Europe 30 Jones: Mrs. Partridge, Betty Draper and Morticia

Addams 38 Braxton with the pipes 39 Alleviations 40 Pink-slipped 41 Large part of Chile 43 Far from spicy 44 Avoids the tag on a throw up the line 48 “Cotta” leader 49 “Scorpion” network 50 Have one’s thoughts occupied completely 53 Oxford’s bottom 54 “Lanka” starter 55 Final amt. 57 “Go, Manolete!” 58 Brief smoke?

59 1988 Olympics site 61 Mumbai wraps 63 Selecting 66 Robinson: singer, Hall of Famer, journalist, GoldGlover 71 Nuts for pies and ice cream 72 Stops, as a cab 73 More humorously sarcastic 74 Stuff for a blast furnace 75 Word before “Happy New Year!” 76 Cobra relative 77 Mediterranean fruit tree 80 Norwegian king

82 Human resource departments, often 85 “King Kong” star Wray 87 Habitat 89 Outlaw 91 Reason to Tylenol up 93 Present times? 94 Obviously not polite 95 Strong feeling of embarrassment 98 Thing for Santa 99 Smith: Moses Hightower, an Angel, rushing champion, singer 105 Where bombs were bursting? 106 CD part?

49 ___-Napoca, Romania 51 Yawn causers 52 Post-diet condition, wishfully 56 Kiddy litter?

CELEBRITY CIPHER

By Luis Campos Celebrity Cipher cryptograms are created from quotations by famous people, past and present. Each letter in the cipher stands for another.

“MFI CKXHMHI OI LHFLMHJ UA RCOYHVI CKJ TCVLHKYHVI CKJ JVOZHVI RGF CVH YGHVH YF UH CTYFVI.” – LCYVOTN JSBBA “IPAACSPPL RB SPGLMDKXA. EGCPGM SIP LPMBG’V ARNM RV RB MRVIMD TDEUC PD BPYMD.” – DECOPGL TIEGLAMD Puzzle Two Clue: K equals F

NAME CALLING by Timothy B. Parker

Puzzle One Clue: Z equals V

CROSSWORD

SUDOKU

Complete the grid so that every row, column and 3x3 box contains every digit from 1 to 9 inclusively.

11-30-17

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2017

AIR CONDITIONING

AUTO SERVICE

TRAYWICK'S GARAGE

CRAWFORD TIRE SERVICE, INC.

TFN 255807

1045 S. Vineland Rd. •Winter Garden • New and Used Tires • Alignment • Complete Auto Repair • A/C Serv. & More

110 Taylor St. • Ocoee • (407) 656-4575

MORE THAN JUST

TIRE VALUES

407-656-1817

Financing Available!

• Bridgetone • Michelin • Toyo • BFG Tires • ALIGNMENT • BRAKES • SHOCKS • OIL & LUBE SERVICE • NEW & USED TIRES • REPAIR & BALANCING • ROAD SERVICE • WE INSTALL LIFTS!

Keeping Your Family Comfortable for More Than 20 Years!

Factory Qualified Techs to Service & Install / Fast, Reliable, Local

Seasonal Tune-Up

$4999

with Any Mechanical Repair of $500 or More Preventive Maintenance

Not valid with any other offers.

Orange/Seminole County

407-654-7420

& Inspection - Reg. $79

FREE ESTIMATES

Duct Cleaning

Not valid with any other offers.

Subject to availability and scheduling in your area.

on Replacements

Serving ALL of Central Florida Lake County

Citrus/Sumter County

$199*

• •

254446

FREE Service Call

*Call for Details

MV03215

Marion County

Mobil 1 Oil

STRESS

352-242-0274 352-503-4576 352-694-5201

FREE

Amsoil Synthetic

Financing

CAC1816732

www.ac-guys.com

See store for details

TFN

255802

255808

TFN

BRAKE PAD SALE

BMW 3 Series Mercedes C-Class

179.95 BMW 5 Series $199.95 $

-FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED –

179.95 Mercedes E-Class $199.95 $

Full Synthetic Oil Service

RETAIL AT WHOLESALE PRICES

ONLY

85.00

FOR ALL OF YOUR AUTOMOTIVE ACCESSORIES CALL TODAY FOR UNLIMITED OPTIONS

Includes up to 7 quarts Service includes: Front or Rear Pads, Parts and Labor. of Full Synthetic & Oil Filter . Tax and recycling fees are extra. Not valid with any other offers. Expires 12/31/17.

407.296.9622 407.877.6268

www.gsairsystems.com email: gsairsystems@cfl.rr.com Licensed & Insured - State License #CAC1814407

Battery Testing and Replacement

Scheduled Maintenance

Transmission and Engine Repair

Computerized Diagnostics

Tune-Ups and General Repair

Tires and Alignments

In House Towing Available

PLAN AHEAD PLACE YOUR HOLIDAY ORDERS NOW!!!

Ray Cornell Jr. Doug Gallinger Working Owners

www.r-dauto.com

ATTORNEY

930 Carter Rd #202 Winter Garden, FL 34787 Telephone: (407) 614-3827 rdtransautorepair@cﬂ.rr.com

ALL MAJOR CREDIT CARDS ACCEPTED

255812

We offer financing with approved credit

317 Enterprise Street, Ocoee, FL 407-554-2073

257379

Hours: Monday-Friday 9-5: Saturday 9-1

Call for a FREE estimate on Equipment Replacement.

255801

• Quality • Service • Sales • Installation • Commercial • Residential

Chrome Packages Bedliners Graphics Kits Carbon Fiber Wraps Rear Spoilers Pin Striping Nurf Bars Bugshields Wheel Covers

CONSTRUCTION

Catastrophic Work Injuries – Workers’ Compensation Claims

Travis Hamric Branch Manager

881 S. 9th Street • Winter Garden, FL 34787

250612

Call or E-mail for a Free Consultation and Case Review

WE BUY JUNK CARS WE BUY SCRAP METAL

10% OFF your rental

sunbeltrentals.com

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK • 8AM - 5PM

YOUR CARD HERE!

• All Engines $200.00 each • All Transmissions $100.00 each • Tires $15.00 and up • Batteries $25.00 • Warranties on all parts sold!

PEST CONTROL 255815

Reach Over 37,000 Readers Each Week!

(407) 654-9516 Office (407) 491-0355 Mobile (407) 654-0145 Fax pcm050@sunbeltrentals.com

Mention this ad for

720 S. Dillard St. Winter Garden, FL 34787

www.budgetupullit.com

AUDIO/VIDEO

255813

407-656-4707

TO ADVERTISE CALL 407-656-2121

Licensed & Insured

Blake Suttie 255803

Owner/Operator

352-516-8604 blasutt@yahoo.com

“Your Complete Service Center” 10 West Story Rd. Winter Garden, FL 34787

We’re there when you can’t be!

Phone 407-656-6646

everycritter@yahoo.com Licensed/Insured/Bonded

REG# MV-01095

TFN

Richard Hudson • Reggie Hudson

407-810-5569

everycritterpetsitter.com

www.

Peace of mind pet sitting and dog walking

255810

PET SERVICES

255798

Board Certified Workers’ Compensation Attorney 4005 N. Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando, Florida 32804 (407) 691-0300 - james@jspearslaw.com www.jspearslaw.com

1081 9th Street Winter Garden, FL 34787 255809

James R. Spears, Esquire

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

PET SERVICES

REALTORS

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2017

TFN 255806

Your pet’s home away from home a unique no-cage facility daycare and overnight boarding

Residential • Commercial • Tile • Metal TFN

407.614.5962

255799

www.puppydreams.com

Email: keithksj@cfl.rr.com Ocoee, FL 34761

255811

703 S. Vineland Rd. Winter Garden, FL 34787

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

Keith Keller President CCC1325778

ROOFING 255800

FIRE TECH

EXTINGUISHER

YOUR CARD HERE!

Reach Over 37,000 Readers Each Week!

SERVICE Ocoee, FL

Danny Motes

UPGRADES & REPAIRS

TFN

255805

Cell 407-466-4738 Tel 407-654-2395 Fax 407-654-2986

www.Firetechextinguisher.com

VIRUS & SPYWARE ?QV\MZ /IZLMV¼[ 8ZMUQMZ :WWÅVO +WUXIVa ;QVKM ! REMOVAL ;MZ^QVO )TT WN ?M[\ 7ZIVOM +W]V\a DATA & PASSWORD .]TTa 4QKMV[ML IVL 1V[]ZML :WWN :MXIQZ[ IVL :MXTIKMUMV\ RECOVERY ̆ ̆ WIRELESS &! ?M[\7ZIVOM:WWÅVO KWU WIRED NETWORKING .:-- -;<15)<-;

TO ADVERTISE CALL

407-656-2121

720 S. Dillard St. Winter Garden, FL 34787

Thursday, November 30, 2017

Autos For Sale

Announcements

Did we forget to mention we use company cars? PLUS…

2004 ALLEGRO BUS

256271

256994

ThurstonAutoSales.com

66K MILES 2 SLIDE OUTS EXCELLENT CONDITION INSIDE AND OUT NEW TIRES SERVICED AND INSPECTED $69,995

407-654-5313

Garage/Moving/Estate Sales HUGE GARAGE Sale- Pat is having her sale. Glassware, vintage, lamps, chandeliers, home decor, clothing, small furniture. 556 Garden Heights, Winter Garden, Fri & Sat. Dec 1 & 2. 8:00am. pj11/30

Restaurants W. Hwy. 50 at Dillard

Merchandise Wanted 13178 W. Colonial Dr. Winter Garden

AVIATION GRADS work with JetBlue, United, Delta and others- start here with hands on training for FAA certification. Financial aid if qualified. Call Aviation Institute of Maintenance 888-242-2649. fcan11/30

Help Wanted

407-656-3495

FRONT OFFICE position in Ocoee pediatric office. Full time. Medical Assistant preferred but not required. Send resume to Pedsemployment@gmail.com. pp11/30

256274

Announcements

407.877.0184

www.mollymaid.com

Condos/Apts. For Rent 2 bed/2 bath Condo in Winter Garden. 2nd floor with patio. Good Condition. Community pool. $900/month. Charter Property Mgmt. No Pets. 407-876-1947 fm12/7

SEARCH • FIND • POST

This week’s Crossword answers

SEASONAL PART-TIME RECEPTIONIST. January through May. Availability Monday - Saturday. Fax resume: 407-656-1199 12/7ba

Every Sunday

BINGO

Positions Wanted

256269

1701 Adair St. Ocoee Doors Open 2pm. Games 3 pm.

407-592-4498

This week’s Sudoku answers

Call today for the opportunity you’ve been waiting for! You could be a Molly Maid Home Service Professional.

Schools/Instruction

NOW PURCHASING

SCRAP BATTERIES

Puzzle Two Solution: “Hollywood is wonderful. Anyone who doesn’t like it is either crazy or sober.” – Raymond Chandler

256270

Lawn & Garden Equipment SAWMILLS FROM only $4397.00- MAKE & SAVE MONEY with your own bandmill- Cut lumber any dimension. In stock ready to ship! FREE Info/DVD: www.NorwoodSawmills.com 1-800-578-1363 Ext.300N fcan11/30

• Competitive wages, paid weekly. • No holidays, evenings or weekends. • Opportunity for advancement. • Positive, fun and friendly environment.

Puzzle One Solution: “Los Angeles is peopled by waiters and carpenters and drivers who are there to be actors.” – Patrick Duffy

257524

407-654-5313

NO EVENINGS, NO WEEKENDS, NO PROBLEM! 258452

256993

ThurstonAutoSales.com

This week’s Celebrity Cipher answers

Positions Wanted

2014 TOYOTA SEQUOIA

45K MILES 1 OWNER LOADED WITH OPTIONS BALANCE OF FACTORY WARRANTY CLEAN CARFAX HISTORY REPORT $39,999

ROOFING

Puppy Dreams Pet Hotel (407) 654-8885

COUNTRY CLUB seeks golf maintenance crew members. please apply at www.isleworth.com under careers tab. Must pass background check, no phone calls please. EEO DFWP DRIVER TRAINEES Needed NOW! Become a driver for Werner Enterprises. Earn $800 per week! Local CDL Training. 1-877-214-3624 fcan11/30