Times& WEST ORANGE
Observer WEST ORANGE COUNTY’S NEWSPAPER FOR 109 YEARS
DECEMBER 11, 2014
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Health Matters
WINTER GARDEN, FLORIDA
Times WEST ORANGE
DECEME R 2014
INSIDE
INSIDE
SPORTS
Windermere Prep students lend helping hands. PAGE 10-11A
See Health Matters for tips on creating ‘A Whole New You.’ SPECIAL SECTION
Dr. Phillips wins thriller in Pop Warner tourney. PAGE 1B
A WHOLE
NEW YOU new goals. With every new year comes s that can Inside, we offer tips on change and finances. 8-12 improve your body, diet
SLEEP DISORDERS Waking up tired? You may have a sleep disorder. 16
OUR TOWN
THURSDAY
MEET THE DOC
Dr. Debbie Andree to oversee FSU’s pediatrics program. 14
BODY AND SOLE
Pick the right shoe for your new running routine. 18
national recognition by Amy Quesinberry Rhode | Community Editor
Noah’s Light wins $25,000 grant The foundation, led by Windermere resident Amber Larkin, was a finalist for the Betty Jane France Humanitarian Award.
+ Sgt. Jayson Bonk earns certification Windermere Police Department Sgt. Jayson Bonk obtained his certification in Public Safety Leadership. Bonk graduated from the Public Safety Leadership Development course Nov. 21. This development certification was four months long and a collaborative partnership between Valencia College Continuing Education, Valencia’s Criminal Justice Institute and Central Florida Fire Institute, and the University of Central Florida’s Criminal Justice Program.
Amber Larkin considers herself a winner, even if she wasn’t awarded the $100,000 grand prize from the NASCAR Foundation. The Windermere resident was one of four finalists for the Betty Jane France Humanitarian Award and was in Las Vegas last week for the announcement. Larkin is the founder of Noah’s Light Foundation, in
Winter Garden, named for her 8-year-old son who died of pediatric brain cancer two years ago. As a finalist, she received $25,000 for her organization. The big winner was Daniel Noltemeyer, representing Best Buddies Kentucky, who took home the top monetary prize and a 2015 Toyota Camry. The other two finalists were Tammy Anderson-Lee, represent-
ing the Autism Society San Diego, where she has developed adaptive swimming programs for children with autism; and Chris McElwee, of Pennsylvania, founder of Michael’s Way, which provides financial assistance to families dealing with expenses resulting from children’s cancer.
SEE NOAH / PAGE 6A
Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images
LIGHT OF THE WORLD by Michael Eng, Zak Kerr and Amy Quesinberry Rhode
GOVERNANCE by Zak Kerr | Staff Writer
Ocoee officials consider LED lights
+ WOT office will close for holidays The West Orange Times & Observer office will be closed from Dec. 23 through Jan 1, 2015. The office will reopen at 8:30 a.m. Jan. 2, 2015. To advertise in the Dec. 25 and Jan. 1 editions, please contact advertising@wotimes.com or call (407) 656-2121 by Dec. 19. Merry Christmas from the staff of the West Orange Times & Observer!
Ocoee would become the first city in the state with LED streetlights.
+ Oakland police launches Toy Drive The Oakland Police Department is collecting toys for its annual Toy Drive through Dec. 22. Toys can be donated at the police department, 540 E. Oakland Ave.; Town Hall, 221 N. Arrington St.; or at Oakland Avenue Charter School, 456 E. Oakland Ave. Donations should be new and unwrapped. Gift cards to toy stores or department stores are welcome, as well.
Photo by Michael Eng
Emily Brown, 7, Olivia Rogers, 8, and Amanda Rogers, 3, all had a wonderful time at Light Up Winter Garden.
’TIS THE SEASON
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Photo by Zak Kerr
This drummer kept right on rolling during Ocoee’s Christmas Parade.
This week’s winner is
Paulette Billson. See the photo on PAGE 7B.
The four national finalists for the Fourth Annual Betty Jane France Humanitarian Award included Daniel Notlemeyer, left, Tammy AndersonLee, Amber Larkin and Chris McElwee.
Winter Garden and Ocoee ushered in the Christmas season with a weekend full of family fun. The holiday festivities began Dec. 5 with Light Up Winter Garden. The downtown event featured live entertainment, vendors, a plethora of children’s activities and, of course, visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus. The fun continued the next morning with the annual Winter Garden Christmas Parade. Attendees enjoyed festive floats, marching bands and much more. Not to be outdone, Ocoee’s Christmas spirit
Photo by Amy Quesinberry Rhode
Of course, Santa made an appearance during the Winter Garden Christmas Parade. was alive and well during its own Christmas Parade Dec. 6. Presented by the Ocoee Lions Club in conjunction with the city of Ocoee, the parade
featured dozens of floats, vehicles and other spectacles — all decked out for the Christmas season. For more photos, see page 4A.
OCOEE — Among many year-end items on its agenda, the Ocoee City Commission discussed the possibility of installing light-emitting diode streetlights in certain sections of State Road 50 in the city, at its final meeting of the year Dec. 2. The city staff submitted a plan with recommendations to approve installation of bright LED streetlights along S.R. 50 between Good Homes Road and West Oaks Mall, as part of completion of the widening project in that section of S.R. 50. The Florida Department of Transportation offered $120,000 to cover the installation of LED lights in this section of road by Duke Energy. “We spent two years negotiating with the DOT to get upgrades on our lights,” Community Redevelopment Agency Administrator Russ Wagner said. “These will be twice as good as the lights Winter Garden has. And it’ll look much better than Winter Garden’s. It’s a much more modern design. When you get in Ocoee, you’re going to know you’re in Ocoee. We’re going to be the first city in the state to have LED lights. We don’t want to be the last
SEE OCOEE / PAGE 6A
INDEX Calendar.................................2A Crossword...............................7B
History..................................17A Obituaries.............................17A
Real Estate.........................5-6B Schools..........................12-13A
Sports.....................................1B Weather..................................7B
Vol. 81, No. 49 , Four sections
How does Santa find you when you don’t have a Home? He finds you at Matthew’s Hope
Christmas Carnival with Santa this Saturday 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM
1460 Daniels Road (Behind the Church of Christ) Winter Garden To learn more please call 407.905.9500 or visit www.MatthewsHopeMinistries.org
WOTimes.com
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WEST ORANGE TIMES
WOTimes.com
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014
COMMUNITYCALENDAR THURSDAY, DEC. 11 Business After Hours — 5:30 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 11, at Holiday Inn Express, 7474 W. Colonial Drive, Orlando. The West Orange Chamber of Commerce invites the community to enjoy a little “jingle with your mingle.” Attendees will enjoy live music, catering by TooJay’s Original Gourmet Deli, trivia games and prizes, such as an iPad Mini. Member advance payment is $5 per person; $10 at the door. For non members, the cost is $20 in advance and at the door. To register, visit wochamber.com.
FRIDAY, DEC. 12 Mathnasium Parent Night Out — 6:30 to 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 12, at Mathnasium of Winter Garden, 13848 Tilden Road. Parents and friends are invited to a Club Radical Party, A.K.A. Parent Night out. Guests will enjoy snacks, games, crafts and more. Mathnasium students in first grade and up get in free with a canned good. Bring a friend for $5 each and a canned good. Limited to the first 30 kids; must RSVP by Wednesday, Dec. 10. To register, call (321) 236-2842. Pig Out on Reading — 10:30 a.m. Friday, Dec. 12, at the Southwest Library, 7255 Della Drive, Orlando. The farm comes to the library in this interactive story time with Farmer Minor. Listen to stories all about pigs and meet Daisy, the famous pot-bellied pig. Ages 3 to 5 are welcome. Registration is required. To register, call (407) 835-7323.
SATURDAY, DEC. 13 Elks Lodge Turkey Shoot — 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13, at the Winter Garden Elks Lodge 2165, located at 700 S. Ninth St. The cost is $3 per shot. For information, call Roy LaBossiere at (352) 978-9362 or (407) 656-2165. Kids’ Night Out — 7 to 10 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13, at Orange
County Parks’ West Orange Recreation Center, 309 S. West Crown Point Road, Winter Garden. Activities include games, crafts, a movie and snack. The cost is $6 per child; for ages five through 12. Repticon — 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 13, and Sunday, Dec. 14, at the Central Florida Fairgrounds, 4603 W. Colonial Drive, Orlando. This expo brings thousands of reptiles, amphibians, invertebrates, spiders and small exotic animals to area enthusiasts. Breeders and vendors will offer animals, supplies, live and frozen feeders and more. At the door, tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for children five through 12 and children under 5 are admitted free. For VIP or advance tickets, visit repticon. com/orlando. Shape Up 4 Seniors — 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13, at the Windermere Library, 530 Main St. Join Shape Up 4 Seniors, LLC for a fun, interactive health program. Guests also can take part in a demonstration of Zumba Gold, a modified lower-intensity fitness class, and learn about local resources and activities available to seniors. For more information, call (407) 835-7323.
MONDAY, DEC. 15 Artsy Toddler — 10:30 a.m. Monday, Dec. 15, at the Southwest Library, 7255 Della Drive, Orlando. All toddlers, ages 2 to 4, are invited to the library to sing and read stories. This program introduces basic concepts focusing on literacy and art. For more information, call (407) 835-7323. Flying Off to Neverland — 11 a.m. Monday, Dec. 15, at the Windermere Library, 530 Main St. Children ages 3 to 5 will enjoy activities full of pirates, fairies and pixie dust, including stories and crafts. Attendees can show off their favorite Neverland costume and fly to the library for a swashbuckling adventure. For more information, call (407) 835-7323.
To publicize your event in our Community Calendar, please send by mail: 720 S. Dillard St. Winter Garden, FL 34787; or by email: news@wotimes.com. Photos are welcome. Deadline is noon Thursday.
HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS THURSDAY, DEC. 11 “Dude, You Hear What I Hear?” — 1:30 and 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 11, at the Foundation Academy North Campus, 125 E. Plant St., Winter Garden. Visit foundationacademy.net. Windermere Holiday Social — 6 to 9 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 11, at Town Hall, 520 Main St., Windermere. Enjoy the company of fellow residents and bring a holiday dish to share. The town of Windermere and Windermere Police Department will be accepting donations of unwrapped toys for the Toys for Tots Toy Drive. (407) 8762563, Ext. 21.
FRIDAY, DEC. 12 Christmas By Committee: A Musical — Friday, Dec. 12, through Sunday, Dec. 21, at the Garden Theatre, 160 W. Plant St., Winter Garden. The show is at 8 p.m. Fridays, 2 and 8 p.m. Saturdays and 2 p.m. Sundays. A special Industry Night show takes place at 8 p.m. Monday, Dec. 15. Tickets are $29 for adults, $25 for students and seniors and $12 for children ages 12 and under on Saturday matinees. To purchase tickets, visit gardentheatre.org/plays. Christmas Movie on the Lawn — 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 12, at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, 4851 S. ApopkaVineland Road, Orlando. Guests are invited to enjoy the movie “Elf” outdoors. Free to the public. To RSVP, visit st.lukes.org/movienight. Live Nativity Tour and Free Dinner — 6 to 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 12, at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, 4851 S. ApopkaVineland Road, Orlando.
Tours leave from the rotunda of Building C every 15 minutes. To RSVP, visit u.st. lukes.org/default.aspx?page=3115&event=3339. Snow Song — 7 to 10 p.m. Friday, Dec. 12, at Camp Ithiel, 2037 Hempel Ave., Gotha. Foundation Academy’s choir will present its Christmas program at this formal ticketed event. For tickets, call (407) 877-2744. Visit foundationacademy.net.
SATURDAY, DEC. 13
Festival — 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13, at the gardens, 2267 Hempel Ave., Gotha. Visit nehrlinggardens. org.
story of how Mary and Joseph found their way to Bethlehem without a star. (407) 8762112.
Frosty Florida Crafts — 11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 13, at the Windermere Library, 530 Main St. Children ages 6 through 12 are invited to the library to celebrate the season with easy projects to give as gifts or keep. For more information, call (407) 835-7323.
Oakland Presbyterian Boar’s Head Pageant — 7:30 p.m. Dec. 13, and 4 p.m. Dec. 14, at the church, 218 E. Oakland Ave. This medieval costumed musical performance premiered last year under the direction of Pat Hines. Call (407) 656-4452.
Holiday Moonlight Movie — 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13, at the pavilion, 104 S. Lakeview Ave., Winter Garden. Attendees will enjoy Disney’s “A Christmas Carol,” starring Jim Carrey. Bring a blanket and a lawn chair. The West Orange High School National Honor Society will offer homemade soup for sale in homemade bowls. (407) 656-4111.
Santa’s Foot Pursuit 5K — 5:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13, at Tri & Run of West Orange, 56 W. Plant St., Winter Garden. Run with Santa and support the Winter Garden Police Athletic League’s Holiday Gifts for Kids program. Visit trinrun.com.
MetroWest WinterFest — 6 to 9 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 14, at MetroWest Golf Club, 2100 S. Hiawassee Road, Orlando. The community is welcome for this free holiday celebration featuring Santa and Mrs. Claus, ice princesses, cookie decorating and a showing of Disney’s “Frozen.” Bring blankets and chairs to sit. (407) 299-1099.
Holiday Movie Under the Stars — 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13, behind Windermere Town Hall, 520 Main St. Windermere Parks and Recreations will present the sixth annual Movie Under the Stars, featuring Disney’s “Frozen.” Windermere residents are invited to bring the entire family, blankets and chairs and enjoy complimentary soda, popcorn, pizza and the film. (407) 8762563. Nehrling Gardens Holiday Celebration and Amaryllis
Winter Garden Christmas Concert — 4 to 5:30 p.m. Dec. 13, at First Baptist Church of Winter Garden, 125 E. Plant St., Winter Garden. Visit gardencommunitychoir. org.
SUNDAY, DEC. 14 Christmas Pageant — 10 a.m. Sunday, Dec. 14, at Windermere Union Church, United Church of Christ, 10710 Park Ridge-Gotha Road. The community is invited to the Sunday service for a production titled “No Star, No Moon, No Way,” telling the
Santa Day & Sing-Along — 2:30 to 6:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 14, at the Oakland Town Center, 221 Arrington St. Come meet Old Saint Nick from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. Then, join the carolers at the Coalition of Church’s SingAlong from 5 to 6 p.m. Food trucks will be available from 4 to 6 p.m. For more information, visit oaktownusa.com.
TUESDAY, DEC. 16 Chanukah Party — 6 to 9 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 16, at King’s Ridge Club House, 1900 Kings Ridge Blvd., Clermont. Cantor Isaac Kriger and Rabbi Howard Schwartz, of Temple L’Chayim, will lead a candle-lighting ceremony. Cost is $18 per person. Reservations must be made by Friday, Dec. 12. To RSVP, call (352) 2426135.
WEST ORANGE TIMES
WOTimes.com
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014
crime by Zak Kerr | Staff Writer
READY TO FIGHT by Zak Kerr | Staff Writer
STRONGLY LACED Laci Schwenneker, 25, cites many motivations to overcome Hodgkin’s lymphoma. WINTER GARDEN — Laci Schwenneker, 25, is a passionate nurse and lifelong Winter Garden resident who intends to stay that way, whether for 80 more years or 80 more days. “I’ve always been really involved in the West Orange community — never wanted to leave here,” she said. “Ever since I was little, I always knew I never wanted to leave. Winter Garden’s my town, since before they redeveloped downtown.” The latter period recently became a possibility when Schwenneker learned she had Hodgkin’s lymphoma, a cancer of white blood cells. “It’s stage 2A Hodgkins,” Schwenneker said. “They caught it in the earlier stages, because I have nodes in my neck and multiple nodes in my chest. But it’s not in my bone marrow. ... If it was in my bone marrow, it would ... go to stage four. I don’t have any nodes in any organs or anything.” Schwenneker noticed an enlarged lymph node in her neck, but she thought little of it, because she had a cold, which can often cause swollen nodes as a symptom. When her cold dissipated, the node remained big, but she still did not visit a doctor because she felt fine. “The only reason I went to my physician was because my girlfriend told me to,” Schwenneker said. “When my physician mentioned she might call her friend who’s an oncologist, I wasn’t freaking out, because there wasn’t anything definitive yet. Once I was admitted to the hospital, they put me in an oncology unit. Then I (said), ‘Oh, my God — I seriously do have cancer.’”
SUPPORT COMMUNITY
Schwenneker was not sad or worried, just nervous, because she knew she would receive a port for chemotherapy, her hair would fall out and the chemo would nauseate her. “Even now that I’m in the thick of it, I don’t think it’s anything that will kill me, because I know the disease process, and the research on it in the last 15 years has been crazy,” she said. “I was telling my family it’s my task at hand — I have to do this, like when I went to college. I’m not going to sit and complain about it — I’ve cried once — but it’s not something where I’m going feel sad about it, because there’s nothing I can do about it. I decided to pray about it, talking to people and getting counsel from people who have been through it.” That includes two aunts, who had double mastectomies before doctors declared them free of breast cancer. “It’s awful when you find out any type of cancer,” Schwenneker said. “Both of them have been strong women and a resource for me to talk to, having been through it, and be with and pray with.”
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Man faces attempted murder charges in Ocoee crash Christian Larsen also faces charges for false imprisonment and battery.
Courtesy photo
Laci Schwenneker and her family are laced together in her bout with Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Schwenneker has drawn prayer and other support from throughout the area. “I go to First Baptist Orlando, and my mom works for a consignment shop they have,” she said. “Everyone I talk to, from family to friends of family ... people from high school, people from the softball teams I’ve played on or coached, is supportive. It feels like the whole city of Winter Garden and Ocoee and the whole surrounding area that knows is just thinking about me and praying for me.” Among the first supporters were friends from West Orange High. They painted themselves orange and blue for a hospital visit, just as they had with her for football games before graduating in 2008. It made her laugh and cheered her up. Her family hosted a barbecue on Nov. 30 to raise funds, with Schwenneker, her father and her best friend among those shaving their heads. “I live with my girlfriend, Jessica; we’ve been together three years, and she’s a huge support system for me with my family,” she said. “We spend a lot of time together, and she’ll ask whether I’m all right. Yes, I promise, I’m doing OK. I’m a nurse who knows what’s going
on, and she’s not, so she’s just trying to figure everything out — it’s scarier for her.”
BIG SISTER TO ALL
Perhaps the most support has been from players with whom Schwenneker played softball, coached or merely interacted — from her youth through today. Many of those ladies have told her how they look to her as a role model. “To hear people say that about me really lifts me up,” Schwenneker said. “I have to get through this for me, but I also have to get through this for my whole community. They’re all looking at me, like, ‘What’s she going to do?’” One girl Schwenneker played with and then coached said every girl Schwenneker came across looked up to her somehow, which motivated Schwenneker to beat cancer. A girl Schwenneker met a few years ago while watching her younger brothers play baseball was so encouraged by Schwenneker that she imitated her wardrobe and went to the same eyebrow waxer. “I was just doing my homework,” she said. “I never knew how much she looked up to me, and now, she’s a strong, independent woman. To hear
her say that, knowing I have that effect on girls, is awesome. I didn’t mean to — I was just being buddies with them. Girls told me they went into nursing school because I was a nurse.” Like women she read about in the West Orange Times, Schwenneker wants to be an inspiration for local girls. “Knowing that I’m that somebody for girls is so awesome that I almost don’t mind having cancer,” she said. “Knowing that someone could see me with cancer, if they get something like this, God forbid, I want them to see that it’s completely doable. You don’t have to fall apart. You don’t have to be a sick person. Yeah, I feel great right now and probably won’t feel like this my whole process, but I want people to see it’s OK to lose your hair. I’m fine, and if you go through this, you’ll be fine.” Once she is cured, Schwenneker plans to continue work as an ICU nurse and then get a master’s degree to become a family nurse practitioner. For now, she intends to spend time with family and slow down to live in the moment, something she said she needed, despite preferring to be industrious. To support Laci, visit go fundme.com/stronglylaced.
OCOEE — A dispute in a vehicle between a man and a woman who shared a home turned hostile and nearly fatal on Nov. 28 in Ocoee. Christian Larsen, an Ocoee man born in Winter Garden, was in a heated debate with his on-and-off girlfriend, who had been driving him to his mother’s residence. The original witness to their dispute told police officers that he had seen a car parked with its lights on in the middle of the intersection of East Orlando and Banderas avenues. The witness said he heard a female screaming for help and a male yelling, Larsen before the vehicle sped away, westbound on East Orlando Avenue. He later identified the vehicle at its crash site, near the Ocoee Food Mart at 744 S. Bluford Ave. The woman in the car with Larsen said she had been driving that car when Larsen demanded her cell phone for unknown reasons. She refused to give it to him, but he persisted in his demands, she said. She promptly stopped the vehicle in the middle of the road, fearing Larsen would try to harm her as she was driving, based on their domestic-violence history. She was afraid of him causing a car crash, especially with her 1-year-old daughter in the back seat of the vehicle. As the woman tried to exit the vehicle, Larsen grabbed her right wrist and began twisting it while telling her that he would physically hurt her if she did not get back into the vehicle, she said. Out of fear from their past and Larsen’s grip on her wrist, the woman complied against her will, seeing no choice but to get back into the vehicle, she said. Once the woman got back into the car, Larsen told her that he would kill her, break her teeth in and put her head through the windshield of the vehicle if she did not continue to drive, she said. As her fear grew from his threats, the woman continued to drive, at which point Larsen pressed his hand on her right leg, forcing her to press the accelerator harder and make the vehicle travel
faster, she said. While the woman drove south on Bluford Avenue, Larsen once more began to demand her cell phone, she said. Larsen became enraged at that point and once again threatened to kill her, she said. While the woman was driving between 35 and 40 mph, Larsen suddenly fastened his seat belt and then grabbed the steering wheel from the driver, causing the car to careen off the roadway and crash hard into a pole at 744 S. Bluford Ave., she said. Yet again, Larsen told the driver that he was going to kill her, she said. Ocoee police officer Stevens Bertrand reported to the scene a short time later, at 6:16 p.m., and investigated the incident. Bertrand said he had learned that the driver and Larsen had resided together in a single unit in the past six months, having dated. Larsen said they were still dating. Bertrand reported that the woman had a laceration on the back of her head that was about three inches long and two inches wide; bruises on both legs; two minor abrasions about four inches long on the right side of her neck; and swellings on the back of her head. Her daughter had an abrasion on her lower back that was about four inches long and two inches wide, he said. Because of their injuries in the crash, Larsen, the driver and the driver’s daughter received transport to a nearby hospital. “Due to the totality of circumstances, Larsen did some act intended to cause death that went beyond just thinking or talking about it,” Bertrand said. “Larsen acted with a premeditated design to kill by placing his seat belt on prior to committing an act, grabbing the steering wheel, that could result in the death of the occupants. The act would have resulted in the death of (the driver) and (her daughter), a 1-yearold child.” Bertrand arrested and charged Larsen with false imprisonment, battery and two counts of attempted murder. Contact Zak Kerr at zkerr@ wotimes.com.
past presence by Amy Quesinberry Rhode | Community Editor
Genealogy center to move into West Oaks Library The West Oaks branch is closed until January, while the entire genealogy collection is set up in its new home. OCOEE — Ancestry.com is great for tracing your family’s origins, but sometimes, you need to dive headfirst into military records, cemetery records and other physical volumes that aren’t available on the Internet. Come January, the Orange County library in Ocoee, located on East Silver Star Road, will become the West Oaks Library and Genealogy Center, where residents can sift through thousands of genealogy books or sit at a computer and search through the Ancestry website and other online resources. Gregg Gronlund, West Oaks Library branch manager, will run this department. He served as department head for genealogy for nine years at the Orlando Public Library and is a past president of the Central Florida Genealogical Society. He has been with the West Oaks Library since 2009 and
the Orange County Library System for 23 years. For Gronlund, studying one’s genealogy is like a detective story, a treasure hunt, a mystery. He is excited to be reconnected with this collection. “For the very beginner, we can explain how to do this, how to go about the process, how to use online resources so they know what to do next,” Gronlund said. “We are going to have a full-time genealogy specialist on staff, in the library and out in the community promoting genealogy.” The print collection — which covers genealogy from the mid-19th century to now — will take up about a quarter of the library, Gronlund said. It includes information on microfilm and microfiche, too. “The material itself ranges from ‘how to do genealogy’ to very special indexes and abstracts, from military records
to wills to cemeteries, Bibles — anything that can help you find names, dates and places in the history of your family,” he said. The library facility isn’t expanding; its contents are being rearranged, and compact shelving on movable bases is being installed. Ten shelving units will be replaced by 17. The carpet is being replaced, and the interior is getting a new paint coat. The West Oaks branch is closed while all the work is being done; however, the return book drop and drive-up window remain open. And nothing is being cut from the West Oaks Library, Gronlund said. In fact, programs are being added. Staff members will provide classes on genealogy, and Gronlund is looking into scheduling outside speakers. “This collection is giving this
Amy Quesinberry Rhode
Gregg Gronlund and Kris Woodson stand amid boxes and empty shelving while waiting for the new genealogy department to move in. library a chance to have a focus and a new start,” he said. The Orange County Library System’s genealogy department has been in downtown Orlando since the library’s founding in 1922. It was then the Albertson Public Library, named for Capt. Charles Alb-
ertson, a genealogist who donated his personal collection. “It had all kinds of resources you would use for genealogy research, and we’ve just built on that,” Gronlund said. In 1929, the library became the official repository of the Florida State Society of
the Daughters of the American Revolution. The collection now contains more than 25,000 books and periodicals, 10,000 microfiche and more than 15,000 reels of microfilm. Contact Amy Quesinberry Rhode at aqrhode@wotimes. com.
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WEST ORANGE TIMES
WOTimes.com
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014
Ocoee Christmas Parade Marshal Hershel Luce rode in style with his grandson, Benjamin, a Winter Garden Cub Scout.
Mrs. Claus had a blast cuddling with the little ones, including Leilani Woods, at Light Up Winter Garden.
A smiling parade participant tossed candy to other children at the Winter Garden Christmas Parade.
George Bailey from "It's a Wonderful Life" meets George Bailey, former owner of the West Orange Times, on this parade float at the Winter Garden Christmas Parade.
Orange County Sheriff Jerry Demings was all smiles during the Ocoee Christmas Parade.
Matt Conrad and his son, Daniel, 3, loved catching snowflakes at Light Up Winter Garden.
The West Orange High School Marching Band performed at both Christmas parades.
The biker showed off some crazy tricks during the Ocoee Christmas Parade.
OCOEE PARADE WINNERS
WINTER GARDEN PARADE WINNERS
The Ocoee High School color guard showed off their Christmas spirit at the Ocoee Christmas Parade.
West Orange Times The West Orange Times (USPS 687-120) is published weekly for $21.50 per year ($35 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, 720 S. Dillard St., Winter Garden, Florida 34787. Opinions in the West Orange Times are those of the individual writer and are not necessarily those of the West Orange Times, its publisher or editors. Mailed letters must by typed and include the author’s signature and phone number. Letters to the editor are subject to editing for space and grammar and become the property of the newspaper. © Copyright 2014 Observer Media Group All Rights Reserved
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Grand Marshal’s Award: Phoenix Rising LLC Mayor’s Award: Church of the Messiah Christmas Spirit Award: Knights of Columbus BEST BAND OR PERFORMANCE GROUP First Place: West Orange High School Second Place: Ocoee High School BEST CHURCH OR FRATERNAL GROUP First Place: Bahia Shrine Second Place: Liberty Lighthouse Church BEST COMMERCIAL OR BUSINESS ENTRY First: Footworks Dance Studio Second: West Orange Property Service BEST YOUTH First: First United Methodist Learning Center Second: Tildenville Elementary School
Judges’ Overall Winner: All-In-One Entertainment BEST YOUTH First Place: Boy Scout Pack #217 Second Place: Young Blacks in Action Third Place: Ocoee Parks and Recreation Honorable Mention: Martial Arts World of Metro West and Florida Youth Programs Cheer BEST COMMERCIAL
First Place: Tom West Blueberries Second Place: Club Z Fitness Third Place: Mathnasium Honorable Mention: Kona Ice
BEST NON-COMMERCIAL
First Place: American Legion #109 Second Place: Rotary Club of Winter Garden
and Ocoee
Third Place: GFWC Woman’s Club of Ocoee Honorable Mention: West Orange Seniors
BEST CHURCH
First Place: Knights of Columbus Second Place: Liberty Lighthouse Third Place: Ocoee Christian Church
Times WEST ORANGE
CONTACT US The West Orange Times is published once weekly, on Thursdays. It provides subscription home delivery. The West Orange Times also can be found in many commercial locations throughout West Orange County and at our office, 720 S. Dillard St., Winter Garden. If you wish to subscribe to the West Orange Times, visit our website, WOTimes.com, call (407) 656-2121 or visit our office, 720 S. Dillard St., Winter Garden.
Publisher / Dawn Willis, dwillis@wotimes.com Executive Editor / Michael Eng, meng@wotimes.com Community Editor / Amy Quesinberry Rhode, aqrhode@wotimes.com Design Editor / Jessica Eng, jeng@yourobserver.com Sports Editor / Steven Ryzewski, sryzewski@wotimes.com Staff Writer / Zak Kerr, zkerr@wotimes.com Advertising Executive / Cyndi Gustafson, cgustafson@wotimes.com Creative Services / Laine Richardson, lrichardson@wotimes.com Office Manager / Sales / Rose Blankenship, rblankenship@wotimes.com Customer Service Representative / Sarah Felt, sfelt@wotimes.com
“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
WEST ORANGE TIMES
WOTimes.com
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014
COPS OAKLAND
WEST ORANGE
CORNER
CALL STATS OAKLAND POLICE
DEC. 1
CLOSE CALL
500 block of East Oakland Avenue. Animal Control. At 8:40 a.m., an officer met an informant who reported an attack on his dog from Nov. 22. The informant returned home that day and found a note from his neighbor regarding the attack. The informant found the dog bleeding and missing part of its ear. A veterinarian treated the dog and said it was lucky to be alive.
LINER FIRE
West Orange Trail Marker 29. Arson. An employee informed police that a trash can liner and part of the trail surface had been burned, causing around $150 of damage. The plastic liner was burnt along the walkway to the point it melted the asphalt. Orange County Fire Rescue had put out the fire. Orange County Sheriff’s Office overtook the investigation.
OCOEE DEC. 2
DOORBUSTER
Harbor Court and Orlando Avenue. Burglary. Around 10:45 a.m., officers responded to an alarm at a home on Harbor Court. Officers found the rear door of the home ajar. They surveyed the home but found no one. The occupants found nothing disturbed or missing inside the home but confirmed damage to the rear door and its locks was new. Officers also noticed marks
The Oakland Police Department reported the following stats for November: Calls for service: 171 Felony arrests: 2 Misdemeanor arrests: 8 Traffic stops: 359 Traffic crashes: 8 Business checks: 798 Vacation house checks: 15
OCOEE FIRE The Ocoee Fire Department (stations 25, 26, 38 and 39) reported 99 calls for assistance from Nov. 27 to Dec. 3: Fires: 3 EMS: 64 Vehicle accidents: 4 Hazardous materials/conditions: 4 Public service: 21 False alarms: 3
OCOEE POLICE The Ocoee Police Department reported 777 calls for service from Nov. 27 to Dec. 3: Arrests (adult): 18 Arrests (juvenile): 1 Assault and battery: 3 Burglary (residential and business): 3 Burglary (vehicle): 10 Child abuse: 2 Criminal mischief: 2 Drug violations: 2 DUI: 3 Homicide: 0 Robbery: 2 Sexual battery: 0 Thefts: 7 Vehicle accidents: 19
on the door from a flathead screwdriver. Damaged property amounted to about $300. Officers received a call while on site about a white male hopping fences near Mont-
Vehicle thefts: 2 Missing/endangered adult: 1 Missing/runaway juvenile: 0
WINDERMERE POLICE The Windermere Police Department reported 77 calls for assistance from Nov. 24 to 30.
WINTER GARDEN FIRE The Winter Garden Fire Department (stations 22, 23 and 24) reported 114 calls for assistance from Nov. 23 to 29: Fires: 1 EMS: 84 Vehicle accidents: 5 Automatic fire alarms: 8 Public assistance: 3 Hazardous conditions: 3 Calls for service: 10
WINTER GARDEN POLICE The Winter Garden Police Department reported 496 calls for service from Nov. 20-26: Arrests (adult): 29 Arrests (juvenile): 4 Assault/battery: 7 Burglary (residential and business): 5 Burglary (vehicle): 5 Child abuse: 0 Criminal mischief: 4 Drug violations: 5 DUI: 3 Robbery: 0 Sexual assault/battery: 1 Thefts: 16 Vehicle accidents: 18 Vehicle thefts: 2 Missing/runaway adult: 0 Missing/runaway juvenile: 0
gomery Avenue but could not find him.
DRUG PROBLEM
2700 block of Old Winter Garden Road. Burglary. An
officer received a dispatch at 9:13 a.m. regarding a burglary at a pharmacy. The business owner said he had closed his store at 7:20 p.m. the prior day and found the back door forced open and severely damaged upon his return at 8:45 a.m. An unknown suspect had cut wires to the alarm box and removed the box. A suspect took about $200 from the cash register and tried unsuccessfully to access the store’s safe. Fingerprints were found, but they likely belong to the owner. A strong burglar used mechanic gloves and a yellow pry bar to open the door, damaging the fence to the retention pond behind the building in the process. Video surveillance cameras abound around the complex, but a local business owner said none works. The pharmacy owner said his video recorder should have been functioning and that he would check for availa b l e video of the incident. Damage to property was at least $2,000.
DEC. 3
WEAPONS RAID
300 block of Kaila Court. Larceny. An officer responded to a theft from a vehicle around 6:30 a.m. at a home. The complainant had parked his car in his driveway the previous night at 8:30. When he walked to his vehicle at 6:20 a.m., he noticed the dome light on, as well as the rear driver-side door ajar. Among stolen items were a hunting bow, two handguns, a rifle, a spotlight, gator-hunting equipment and $40 in cash. The bow was found in the bushes of the 900 block of Veronica Circle, and another officer recovered one handgun around 2 p.m., along with suspect information. The estimated value of the stolen items, including the bow, is $2,165.
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WINTER GARDEN FORECLOSED HOMES MUST BE SOLD!! Priced $125K-$299K
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WEST ORANGE TIMES
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NOAH / PAGE 1A The Betty Jane France Humanitarian Award honors the commitment that the foundation’s chairwoman, Betty Jane France, has demonstrated throughout her life to philanthropy and community service. The award is presented annually to someone who has made a profound impact on the lives of children in their community.
REWARDING EXPERIENCE
Larkin traveled to Las Vegas on Dec. 3 with Molly Piveral and Donna Caruso, two members of the Noah’s Light staff. Once there, they met three more members of their party: Drew Davidson and his parents, Karen and Glenn, of Birmingham, Alabama. Drew is fighting the same brain cancer that killed Noah. That evening, a VIP reception was held for the finalists and their guests with the 16 top NASCAR drivers participating in the Sprint Cup Series. The finalists shared their stories with the drivers and took photos with them. Larkin recalled a highlight of the evening was when the Da-
OCOEE / PAGE 1A city to have obsolete lights. We want to be the first city to have LED lights.” Commissioner Rusty Johnson was reluctant to approve the plan, because he believed the streetlights and medians should match those of Winter Garden, for overall area feel based on proximity. “I don’t want to put in anything different than what they got,” Johnson said. “I want them to match. That’s the whole purpose. Why would we not have the same thing?” Because of Johnson’s desire to learn more about the plan, the commission voted 4-0 to have the staff present the plan again in January, after explaining the plan to the commissioners in greater detail.
DANGEROUS INTERSECTION
Resident Donna Broadway raised concerns for the intersection of Magnolia Street and North Lakewood Avenue, near
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014
vidson family met driver Michael Waltrip. When he found out he was a favorite of the Davidsons’ daughter, who was unable to attend the event, he grabbed a phone and called her. France, known for her philanthropy work, met the finalists, and Larkin said she was “just absolutely lovely and dear and an amazing woman.” Thursday morning was dedicated to press interviews at the local Fox station, and then the finalists enjoyed a luncheon with the drivers. Afterward, everyone went down to the Vegas Strip, which was closed off for the NASCAR Victory Lap. Drivers sped down the street and performed burnouts for the crowd. Friday night was the red-carpet event — the awards ceremony and announcement of the winner. “The event was wonderful,” Larkin said. “The way I look at it is we are all winners. It was great exposure. It just showed what a big heart NASCAR has.”
NEW PROTOCOL
While Larkin was in Vegas, Suzanne Nixon, executive director of Noah’s Light FounOcoee Middle School. She requested no-parking signs in certain areas, based on the dangers posed to children crossing at the intersection after school. “I had to go direct traffic so cars could get through, because there’s one person that always parks in the intersection,” Broadway said. “Usually facing against the traffic, she gets out of her car and walks up to the school to get her child. Emergency vehicles, if they were to come by, would not be able to get down Magnolia Street.”
STATE ROAD 429
The city staff also offered a presentation on $100,000 in appropriations from the state in the form of a community grant from the Department of Economic Opportunity. The plan is to use the money to study the economic development potential of State Road 429 in Ocoee, in conjunction with a contractor Winter Gar-
After talking extensively with Larkin three years ago while Noah was still fighting cancer, Dr. Laurence Cooper, of MD Anderson, agreed to change his lab’s course of research and apply personalized immune-based NK cell therapy to pediatric brain cancer. The doctor and his lab have been able to take an individu-
al’s NK cells, strip them of their hunting ability, feed them that person’s cancer, reprogram them to hunt only that, put them back in the patient’s body and let them hunt. “No radiation, no chemotherapy, no toxicity,” Larkin said. “Dead cancer cells by our immune system.” The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved this protocol in October. Nixon said doctors are anticipating enrolling three children in the program the first week of January. Three more children will be enrolled if the trial appears to be working. The next step would be phase two of the trial, when the treatment is expanded to hundreds, Nixon said. It could also be expanded to other pediatric cancers. Larkin and her Noah’s Light Foundation are on a crusade to raise funds for phase two — about $10 million. “If that goes well, it becomes phase three, or first line of defense, which means it works and ensures that companies will come in and support us,” Nixon said. Contact Amy Quesinberry Rhode at aqrhode@wotimes. com.
at 1060 Tomyn Blvd. The commission approved the resolution, which includes about 121 assisted-living units and 151 beds in a three-story building of about 105,000 square feet. • Red Apple Development Inc. agreed to purchase nine acres of a plot, which is bounded by North Clarke Road to the west, A.D. Mims
Road to the south and Prairie Lake Reserve Subdivision to the north and east. The price was $1.8 million, with the same $200,000-per-acre rate available for Red Apple Development Inc. on three additional acres of the property for three years. The offer is contingent on all necessary approvals for construction of a K-8 charter school on the site.
Waste Southeast Inc., which has done work with the city. “We offer the lowest price and best service,” he said. “We’ve done work with (Ocoee) before, helping to transition another company out.”
agreement. The plan includes 133 units on an undeveloped site of 45.09 acres of pine trees in uplands and wetlands. The property is on the south side of McCormick Road, east of Ingram Road and west of North Clarke Road. Commissioner John Grogan was absent from the meeting. Mayor S. Scott Vandergrift excused himself from the meeting after the vote on the annexation of land pertinent to McCormick Reserve, saying he was feeling ill.
Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images
Amber Larkin, center, accepted the $25,000 grant during the 2014 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Awards at Wynn Las Vegas on Dec. 5, 2014, in Las Vegas. dation, was at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, in Houston, meeting with doctors involved in the new NOAH (New Opportunities Advancing Hope) Protocol. “They are running tests to confirm what is called good manufacturing processes, or GMP,” she said. “They make sure that everything is exactly den has hired to study its side of S.R. 429, as well. The contractor qualified through the Tri-City partnership, which also includes Apopka. The Ocoee section stretches from the Florida Turnpike at the south end to Clarcona-Ocoee Road at the north end. “Ocoee is growing faster than any other city in the state,” said Craig Shadrix, assistant city manager. “We have an opportunity to promote economic development with an employment center.” The commission unanimously approved the plan. “We have a lot to gain by teaming up with Winter Garden and with Apopka, because we all have similar interests, especially with Winter Garden,” Commissioner Rosemary Wilsen said.
TRASH CONTRACT RENEWED
The commission unanimously approved a five-year renewal of its contract with Progressive Waste Solutions of
perfect so there’s no question when they grow the child’s NK cells.” Larkin has explained NK cells this way: They are “natural killer” cells found in the immune system. They are the most aggressive white blood cells and actually reach out and touch cells — with tentacles — seeking out bad ones.
IN OTHER NEWS
• The commission approved a five-year renewal of its agreement for fire department services to Windermere from the Ocoee Fire Department, with completion set for Sept. 30, 2019. • Senior Care Living V LLC reached an agreement with the city on a resolution to build a senior living facility
Florida Inc. for exclusive commercial and multi-family solid waste, based on staff recommendations to avoid business disruptions of a switch to a different company. “We provide excellent service and enjoy being a community player,” said Fred Hopkins Jr., a representative presenting on behalf of Progressive Waste Solutions of Florida Inc. The commission also heard a presentation from Tal Johnson, a representative of Advanced Disposal Services Solid
MCCORMICK RESERVE
The commission unanimously passed all parts of McCormick Reserve, including annexation, rezoning to planned urban development, a land-use plan and an annexation and development
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WEST ORANGE TIMES
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014
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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014
NEWSBRIEFS
SHOW THEM THE MONEY by Steven Ryzewski | Sports Editor
Southwest Middle arts programs to benefit from budget allocation The Dr. Phillips school will use $32,000 to fund a joint music library, among other things. ORLANDO — For Southwest Middle School chorus teacher Rebecca Hammac, tracking down pieces of music down in the school’s music library often is an arduous task. “The chorus library is completely bursting at the seams,” Hammac said. “All of the music is backed up almost to the ceiling. We don’t have enough storage.” Such problems are a bit of a big deal at Southwest, where the feeder school for the Visual and Performing Arts program at Dr. Phillips High School prides itself on its strong fine arts department. Luckily, following the school’s recent Fine Arts Showcase — a concert to introduce the talent in the schools various programs as well as a display of student work from the art department and skits from the drama program — Principal Matthew Arnold decided to allocate $32,000 of Southwest’s budget to the department. That means that, among other things, the teachers in that department will be able to purchase a joint-use music library system to be used by the band, choral and orchestra departments, as well as a new tuba, a tuba rack capable of storing four tubas, a bassoon, clarinets and French horns. The library for all three departments will be consolidated into one room, which will create extra practice space for students. The library will be a large set of cabinets with rollout doors where sheet music and textbooks will be stored.
Courtesy photo
Southwest Middle School’s Mia Schweidert (art), left, Jennifer Erickson (orchestra), Amy Bernloehr (band), Rebecca Hammac (chorus), Stephen Clay (art) and Principal Matthew Arnold smile for the camera to celebrate the $32,000 being allocated to the school’s arts programs. Hammac said having the library and its materials easily accessible would be essential while they teach the students their repertoire. Although many area middle schools have successful programs in the fine arts, it is a pretty big deal on Southwest’s campus off Dr. Phillips Boulevard. Arnold said most programs were fortunate to have two or three of their fine-arts programs (including orchestra, chorus, band, art and drama) be successful. But Southwest has created an atmosphere in which all five programs are thriving. “We’re fortunate that all five of our programs have a teacher that is probably in the top 10% in the county,” Arnold said. “Our teachers are phenomenal.” Arnold also said his school, where the overwhelming majority of students goes on Dr. Phillips High School, has a strong relationship with the fine-arts programs at the high school that enables his teachers to create a solid foundation for the students, breeding continuity when
they make the jump to high school. “We view all of our fine-arts programs as seven-year programs,” Arnold said. “It’s very difficult to put into words the significance (the finearts programs) play at our school.” While Arnold praises his staff and the programs on his campus, his teachers conversely praise the administration at the school for recognizing the value of the fine-arts program for Southwest’s students — something that enables them to conduct their programs at a higher level. “We always challenge our students,” Hammac said. “We usually up the ante, and we have the support of the administration.” Anyone interested in supporting the fine arts department at Southwest Middle School can contact Hammac or Amy Bernloehr, the school’s band teacher, by calling the school at (407) 370-7200. Contact Steven Ryzewski at sryzewski@wotimes.com.
+ Gov. Scott appoints Windermere resident
+ Lazenby named ORRA chairman-elect
Gov. Rick Scott announced the appointment of Julian “Ed” Fouché to the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority. Fouché, 66, of Windermere, is a retired senior vice president for Disney Destinations. He previously served as chairman of the board for Visit Florida and as a board member of the Florida Commission on Tourism. Fouché received his bachelor’s degree from Georgia Southwestern University. He is appointed for a term that ends April 16, 2018. The appointment is subject to confirmation by the Florida Senate.
Members of ORRA have selected John Lazenby, Colony Realty Group Inc., to serve as the association’s 2015 chairman-elect. Lazenby will automatically ascend to the association’s chairmanship position in 2016. Results of the 2015 ORRA Leadership Election were announced on October 3 during the ORRA REALTOR Convention and Trade Expo.
+ Clermont dentist to offer free services Dr. John Adkins and the team at Citrus Tower Family Dental will offer free dentist-
ry services Friday, Dec. 12, as part of Free Dentistry Day. “Now more than ever, there are people in Clermont who need dental services but have no means to afford them – whether they’re out of a job, or just don’t have dental insurance,” Adkins said. “This event is a great opportunity for us to share our time and resources with those less fortunate and give back to the community we serve.” A choice of one free cleaning, filling or extraction will be provided per patient between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. Friday, Dec. 12, at the Citrus Tower Family Dental office, 1381 Citrus Tower Blvd, Suite 101, Clermont. Patients will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information, call (352) 241-4900 or visit FreeDentistryDay.org.
TRAVELIN’ TIMES
BERLIN. Winter Garden real estate broker-associate Gisela Smith took her hometown newspaper to the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin, Germany. We still are accepting submissions for our Travelin’ Times photo contest. Entering is easy! Just snap a photo of you with the paper at your destination of choice and email it to Community Editor Amy Quesinberry Rhode, aqrhode@wotimes.com. Include the names of everyone in the photo, where it was taken and a phone number at which we can reach you. You also can mail or drop off the photo to: West Orange Times, 720 S. Dillard St., Winter Garden 34787. Call the newspaper office at (407) 656-2121 with questions.
MAR 27-28 Three Shows
ALL-NEW 2015 SHOW WITH LIVE ORCHESTRA
Bob Carr Theater, Orlando
Ticket Online: ShenYun.com/Orlando Ticket by Phone: 844.513.2014 | 888.974.3698
Perfect Holiday Gift
“Years of experience in show business, and this is one of the best shows ever.” — Dick Walter, former impresario
“I was overwhelmed. I felt very joyful. Really spectacular. People should see this level of talent, beauty and grace. It was so beautiful, it was healing. Bringing back the spirituality, the respect, and the kindness towards one another.” — Elisa Brown, renowned soprano
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daughter disguises herself as a son and takes her father’s place at war. A magical monkey, an ogre, and a humanoid pig protect a Buddhist monk as he journeys to the western heavens on a quest for true teachings. A folk hero gets drunk, but then saves a village from a vicious tiger. China’s 5,000 years of uninterrupted history has yielded an endless treasure trove of legends, myths, and literary classics. These stories come to life in vivid detail through Shen Yun’s awe-inspiring performances with its explosive techniques, synchronized movements, and expressive powers. Large animated backdrops and exquisitely crafted costumes transport audiences from the Himalayas to tropical lake-filled regions; from the legends of the culture's creation over 5,000 years ago to contemporary tales of courage. The entire performance is accompanied by the Shen Yun Orchestra, which combines two of the world’s greatest classical music traditions, Chinese and Western. Ancient instruments like the soul-stirring erhu and the delicate pipa lead the melody on top of a full Western orchestra, creating an enchanting new sound.
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HROUGHOUT HISTORY, almost every culture looked to the divine for inspiration. Art was meant to uplift, bringing joy and renewal to those who created and experienced it. Today, Shen Yun’s artists follow in this noble tradition, incorporating study of traditional culture, meditation and a mindful lifestyle into their rigorous daily training. This spiritual connection is the heart behind each dance movement and each musical note. It is why audiences feel there is something different about Shen Yun, something deeply heartening that continues resounding long after the performance.
Presented by Florida Falun Dafa Association
“Come see it! It’s worth it, it’s worth every dollar you spend on the show. You would not be disappointed by coming to see the show.” — Bradley Michael Thalken, Retired Lieutenant Colonel
“I am absolutely, utterly amazed at what I just saw, heard - it was absolutely awe-inspiring, and my heart is smiling.” — Marina Francesca Kelly, Litigation Attorney
WEST ORANGE TIMES
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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014
WORDSMITH by Amy Quesinberry Rhode | Community Editor
Books highlight area’s beginnings Richard Cronin’s books about local history are available on Amazon and at the Winter Garden History Museum. Are you stumped about what to get someone for Christmas? If they like local lore, maybe one of Richard Cronin’s books will satisfy their curiosity about the history of Central Florida and West Orange County. Cronin, formerly of Orange and Seminole counties and now living in Sarasota, is the author of several published books, and another — a novel based on historical facts — is coming out in early 2015. Autographed copies of his books are for sale through the Winter Garden Heritage Foundation at its downtown Heritage Museum, railroad museum and soon-to-open History Research and Education Center. Prices range from $17.95 to $26.95. “The Winter Garden Heritage Foundation has been one of my most enthusiastic supporters,” Cronin said. “In addition to selling all four of my current books, they have invited me in the past to be a guest speaker at Central Florida Railroad Society’s meeting. We share a fascination with Central Florida history.” Two of the books have a direct connection to West Orange County. “CitrusLAND: Curse of Florida’s Paradise,” his first book, tells how the earliest settlers found their way to Central Florida and includes information about Oakland’s Speer family and Isaphoenia C. Speer, one of Cronin’s favorite Central Florida founders. The book deals mostly with the pre-Civil War time period, he said. “Of my four books, this is written more like a history text, and so while many have said they loved it, readers less interested in history at times find it more like a school text book,” Cronin said. “CitrusLAND: Ghost Towns & Phantom Trains” takes place during a train ride from
Courtesy photo
Richard Cronin has penned another book about Central Florida’s history. Sanford to Oakland and features Clarcona, Crown Point, Winter Garden and Oakland, among other towns. It is a novel based on historical facts about people, towns and events, Cronin said. “CitrusLAND: Altamonte Springs of Florida” tells how Hoosier Springs, Palm Springs, Altamont, Shepherd Springs, and Altamonte all struggled as early towns and eventually became one city called Altamonte Springs. “First Road to Orlando” is the story of how the roughly 30-mile route from Fort Mellon to Fort Gatlin evolved into the Mellonville-to-Orlando Road — and how this path lost out as the alignment of the first railroad when Sanford moved the route further west. On Jan. 3, Cronin will begin a series on William Lovell, who began his involvement in Central Florida at Fort Reid, near Sanford, then moved into Orlando when it was merely four acres in size. He
later moved into Apopka. “A lot of Central Florida founders can be associated with multiple locations, which is why I call my stories CitrusLAND. It’s not about modern-day Orange, Seminole, Osceola, Volusia, Lake or Sumter counties; local history crosses all of these lines. ‘Citrus’ was one of two constants that defined how Central Florida began; ‘land’ development is the other constant.”
ON WRITING
His father was a city editor and writer at an Ohio newspaper, and Cronin had wanted to write a book for years. About a dozen years ago, he came up with the idea of writing a fictional story involving early pioneers living on Lake Adelaide, in Altamonte Springs. “At the time, I lived by that lake but knew little about the history of the region,” he said. “The name seemed enchanting, a romance of some sort, but as I soon learned,
when it came to knowing anything of the lake’s origin, I wasn’t alone. A plaque at Altamonte Springs intrigued me — it said the origin of the city dates to a group of New Englanders who changed the name of a railroad stop that was existing on the South Florida Railroad line. “The first thought that went through my mind was, ‘No, apparently the existing railroad depot was the origin.’ The first station was Snowville, or Snow’s Station, the sign read.” Because he wanted his story to be based on historical accuracy, he continued his research and learned a man named James Edgar Snow once owned land in the Altamonte Springs Mall area, land that reached eastward to the lake. His wife’s name: Adelaide. So, his book evolved from fiction to history. “The more I dug into 19th-century Central Florida, the more fascinating facts I uncovered,” Cronin said. In doing research, the writer looks at family histories, census data, county records, military records, General Land Office records and existing old histories. “When I recite a local legend or pre-published story I note that, and I’ll tell if I have been able to verify the story or not,” Cronin said. “Many, many legends are not true.” Cronin is currently talking with a Sanford historian, so a book about the former Mellonville could be in the works. For more information, visit croninbooks.com. His books can also be purchased at amazon.com, and Amazon Prime members can read the books for free. Cronin said he gave several area libraries copies of his books, as well. Contact Amy Quesinberry Rhode at aqrhode@wotimes. com.
Honor your loved ones
Join us for Woodlawn Memorial Park and Funeral Home’s
15TH ANNUAL HOLIDAY REMEMBRANCE SERVICE Thursday, December 11, 2014 - 7:00 PM MUSIC • HOLIDAY REMEMBRANCE TREE • REFRESHMENTS
Woodlawn Memorial Park 400 Woodlawn Cemetery Rd. Gotha, FL 34734 407.293.1361 WoodlawnMemorialParkGotha.com
We proudly support TOYS FOR TOTS. Please bring an unwrapped toy so a child can have a special holiday season.
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WEST ORANGE TIMES
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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014
SERVICE WITH SMILES submitted by MaryBeth Davies | WPS
Colby O’Brien worked hard during this year’s program.
Students Connor Totilas, left, Dylan Oleyar, Hiroshi Tai, Aiden Fenne and Patrick Cannon all were eager to lend a hand in their community.
Students lend helping hands Seventh-grader Savannah Doshan assisted at the Windermere Schoolhouse Restoration Project.
Needing Home Improvements? “Come home to quality”
Wood Rot • Siding • Decks • Additions and more
(407) 947-9313 www.TAMillerConstruction.com
1/15/15
Students from Windermere Preparatory School made West Orange a better place to live during the school’s Middle School Community Service program. The sixth-graders traveled to Long & Scott Farm to glean crops for Second Harvest Food Bank. Seventh-graders, the school’s Environmental Ambassadors, helped with the Windermere Schoolhouse Restoration Project. Finally, the eighth-graders lent helping hands at the Give Kids the World Village. Seventh-graders Kaio Valle and Megan Ikeda enjoyed volunteering their time at the Windermere Schoolhouse Restoration Project.
WEST ORANGE TIMES
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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014
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Alex Dial found some fruit during this year’s program. Right: Pablo Crespo didn’t mind getting a little dirt on his gloves.
Windermere Mayor Gary Bruhn loved the effort put forth by students Mariyah Dhanani Megan Hauck, Becca Sealy, Megan Ikeda, Max Durst and Jake DeLattre.
Sixth-grader Stephanie Sun worked hard at Long & Scott Farm.
CELEBRATE YOUR CREATOR Sixth-graders Raeland Mitchell and Aubree Howard gleaned crops for Second Harvest Food Bank.
Eighth-graders Kehinda and Taiye Ajayi volunteered their time at Give Kids the World Village.
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You are invited to attend our church choir’s presentation of
All is Well A Christmas Musical created by Dennis and Nan Allen
Sunday, December 14, 2014, 11 am
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014
CLASSNOTES + Students, teachers to meet at center court Ocoee Middle School will host a Staff vs. Student Basketball Game from 4 to 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 18, at the school, 300 S. Bluford Ave., Ocoee. Tickets are $3, and concessions will be sold at the event. Come out and see who has the best skills on the court. For more information, call (407) 877-5035.
+ Local leaders participate in teach-in
STARKE LAKE BAPTIST CHURCH 611 North West Street - Post Office Box 520 Ocoee FL 34761 • 407-656-2351 Jeff Pritchard, Pastor www.starkelakebaptist.org starkelakebaptist@gmail.com Plan to join us as we celebrate the birth of Christ through songs of hope and celebration.
Hundreds of West Orange leaders shared their careers with local students during the 2014 Great American TeachIn. West Orange High School hosted dozens of speakers, including: Freddy Anderson (retired WOHS teacher), Rory Anderson (Pepsi Beverages Co.), Dean Armitage (Children’s Home Society), MM1 Patrick Atwood (U.S. Navy), Dr. Baigabatov (Celebrity Medical Center), Dr. Baptiste (Baptiste Orthodontics), Larry Birkes (Birkes Consulting), Kenneth Brooks (Accuray Incorporated), Travis Brown
(Universal Orlando), Eileen Caines (author), OSC Greg Cox (U.S. Navy), Michael de Beer (Universal Orlando), Major Dan Dennis (Southwest Airlines), Jake Dill (Armor CrossFit), Zach Harig (Universal Orlando), YN1 Nakita Harrell (U.S. Navy), Dawn Hinds (Quality Health Care), Shaun Hutchinson (author), Payton Jernigan (Armor CrossFit), David Johnston (Orlando (Police Dept.), Jennifer Julian (Universal Orlando), Kent Keoppel (KPAL Photography), Todd Leda (Lockheed Martin), Amanda Lougheed (Universal Orlando), Tami Mann (Wyndham Vacation Ownership), Craig Martin (State Farm Insurance), Dwane Massey (Quality Health Care), Jill Miesch (Quality Health Care), Marissa Mikolenko (Universal Orlando), Stephanie Powell (Fitlife Foods), JoEllen Revell (Victim Service Center), Sharon Rivas (SADD), Jennifer Rother (Universal Orlando), Laura Rounds (OCPS), YN1 Sonia Sambula (U.S. Navy), Julie Sautner (Amateur Athletic Union), Ximarra Solaris (Quality Health Care), R. Max Steiner (Universal Orlando), and Andy Westrick (Starke Lake Studios).
+ MVA student receives promotion Montverde Academy Lowerschool fifth-grader Kurt Schindele received a promotion to League Cadet, Second Class while attending the 29th Annual Navy SEAL Muster and Music Festival Nov. 7 to 9 at the Navy SEAL Museum of Fort Pierce. At the event, the U.S. Navy holds a sunrise memorial service for team members who have died in the previous year and endeavors to reunite former frogmen/underwater demolition technicians and SEALs at the national museum.
These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world. John 16:33
Spring Lake Elementary School recently announced Tabia Powell as its 2014 Teacher of the Year.
INCOME TAXES Enrolled Agent Master of Science in Taxation
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WEST ORANGE TIMES
WOTimes.com
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014
13A
HORRIBLE BOSSES 2
R
Friday 4:30 7:30 9:45 Saturday 1:30 4:30 7:30 9:45 Sunday 1:30 4:30 7:30 Mon-Wed: 4:30 7:30 - Thursday 4:30
PENGUINS OF MADAGASCAR
PG
HUNGER GAMES: MOCKINGJAY PART 1
PG-13
Friday 4:40 7:40 Saturday-Sunday 1:40 4:40 7:40 Monday-Thursday 4:40 7:40
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WESTBROOKE INDUCTS NEW NEHS MEMBERS Westbrooke Elementary School recently inducted the newest members into the National Elementary Honor Society. The 2014 inductees include Benjamin Shenefield, Ellija Hawkins, Isabella Epstein, James
Reed, Joshua Steineck, Maddie Armstead, Micah Spoerner, Payton Moore, Tristan Valladares, Cambrie Riffe, Cameron Tonkovich, Evan King, Isabella Sharp, Natalie Herring, Adrienne Fee, Darylann Johnson, Isabel Rios Barton, Jayden
Grisaffe, Justin Burbano, Sean Lewis, Adrianna Loper, David Orozco, Samantha Evans, Sami Boufakir, Trisha Patel, Brandon Massi, Emma Beadle, Patrick Golden and Taylor Zellner. NEHS was established in 2008 by the National
Association of Secondary School Principals in cooperation with the National Association of Elementary School Principals. It recognizes elementary students in both public and non-public elementary schools for their outstanding academic achievement and demonstrated personal responsibility. A group of SunRidge Elementary School students participated in the Girls on the Run 5K Dec. 6 at Lake Eola. The students trained for three months to prepare for the run. Front row, from left: Railey Brown, left, Courtney O’Rourke, Emma Morris, Tori Shiley and Keisha Pierre. Middle row, from left: Ella Klyce and Kayla Fleming. Back row, from left: Deborah Haynes, Victoria Tapsy, Nevaeh Fleming, Victoria Gonzalez, Khiya McLamb and Mia Clark.
Friday 4:10 7:10 9:45 Saturday 1:10 4:10 7:00 9:45 Sunday 1:10 4:10 7:10 Mon - Thurs 4:10 7:10
BIG HERO 6
Friday 4:20 7:20 9:40 Saturday 1:20 4:20 7:20 9:40 Sunday 1:20 4:20 7:20 Mon-Wed: 4:20, 7:20 Thursday 4:20
PG
EXODUS GODS AND KINGS
PG-13
INTERSTELLAR
PG-13
Friday 3:45 7:00 9:45 Saturday 12:45 4:00 7:15 9:45 Sun 12:45 3:50 7:00 Mon-Tues 3:45 7:00 Wed-Thurs: 3:45 6:45 Friday 3:45 7:45 Saturday 12:30 3:45 7:45 Sunday 1:45 6:45 Monday: 3:30 6:45 Tues: 3:45
ANNIE
PG
Thursday: 7:20
HOBBIT THE BATTLE OF FIVE Tuesday: 7:00 Wed-Thurs: 3:50 7:00
PG-13
NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM SECRET Thursday: 7:30
PG
CHRISTMAS CARNIVAL 12/13
Oakland Presbyterian Church Join us for our Special Christmas Events:
Boar’s Head Pageant Sat, Dec 13 @7:30pm Sun Dec 14 @ 4:00pm
Christmas Eve Candlelight Communion Services 5:00, 7:30 and 11:00pm
14A
WEST ORANGE TIMES
WOTimes.com
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014
CLUBHUBBUB WINDERMERE
+ Rotary Club of Windermere The Rotary Club of Windermere welcomed Orange County Commissioner S. Scott Boyd to its meeting in late October, along with Florida State Rep. Eric Eisnaugle. In 2013, the Tri-County League of Cities named Boyd as Commissioner of the Year; Eisnaugle currently serves Florida District 44. At the meeting, Boyd and Eisnaugle spoke to Rotary members about the significance of the various amendments on the Nov. 4 ballot.
+ Windermere Garden Club Windermere Garden Club members recently transformed the Town Hall tree to create a festive setting for all the town of Windermere’s activities and meetings this December. The color scheme this year is silver and blue. Carolin Warren and Vicki Hearst organized the project, and all club members helped decorate. The community is welcome to stop by and enjoy the tree during business hours.
In early November, the Rotary Club of Windermere welcomed Christina McGuirk, RN, and Bibi Alley, LHRM, of Health Central Hospital in Ocoee. McGuirk is the chief nursing officer at the hospital with more than 21 years of experience in the health care field. Alley works as a patient advocate and has devoted more than 22 years to raising patient and public awareness about patient rights. She currently directs the Patient Advocacy program at Health Central. McGuirk and Alley spoke to the club about the ongoing program at the hospital that is aiming to take the guest service experience from good to great. At the following meeting in November, certified Kidney Smart educator Susan Thomas, RN, of DaVita Healthcare Partners, Inc., shared her passion for educating patients about how kidneys function, the effects of kidney disease and the various treatment options available. Thomas also teaches about the role medications, diet and nutrition play in disease management and prevention. Kidney Smart classes are open to the community and are designed for at-risk individuals, or those already diagnosed with kidney disease. Last week, the Rotary Club of Windermere welcomed Robert Dent, director and founder of the International Life Foundation. Dent shared with the club his work in the barrios of Bogota, Colombia, partnering with local Rotarians to open and maintain a YMCA. At the Hogar Amanacer YMCA in Bogota, emphasis is placed on rehabilitation for youth and adults with drug addictions or who work in the sex trade industry. The focus is highly on education, detoxification and working toward self-dependence while maintaining employment in a field of each person’s choice. For more, visit windermererotary.org.
WINTER GARDEN
+ American Legion, Hugh T. Gregory Post 63 The American Legion, Hugh T. Gregory Post 63 recently donated $1,000 to the Winter Garden Police Athletic League for the Holiday Gifts for Kids program at the police department. The legion, in conjunction with Florida Blood Centers, also will conduct a blood drive from 2 to 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 19, in front of the Hugh T. Gregory Legion Post, 271 W. Plant St., Winter Garden. Each pint of blood donated is equivalent to three lives saved. Successful donors will receive free movie ticket vouchers. The post will be open with sodas, coffee, tea, water, fruits and pastries available for those who attend. For more information, call (407) 6566361.
WEST ORANGE
+ Robinswood Garden Club The Robinswood Garden Club recently gathered for its annual covered dish party and gift exchange. The hostess was Doris Tindall. During the meal, Mark and Dee Stack reported the club’s delivery of two complete Thanksgiving meals to the Pine Hills Community Center for members to share. Also, a freewill offering was made to Dee Stack for her nursing home crafts expense. Club President Wilma Lentz and her husband, Bill, helped celebrate the holiday season by placing a solar dancing reindeer at each table setting — the third solar gift they have given each member. The Lentzes hope to share the warm greeting these items give them in the kitchen window every day. The Robinswood Garden Club will gather for a program on Bonsai at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 6, 2015, at the Pine Hills Community Center, 6408 Jennings Road, Orlando.
Rotary Club of Lake Buena Vista members and visiting guests enjoyed the group’s First Tuesday Social at the Buena Vista Palace & Spa in Downtown Disney. Back row, from left: Yutaro Iwamura, Harry Boardman, Darrin Whipple, Jeff Calvert, Pat Calvert, William Kessering and Betty and Ray Maxwell. Middle row, from left: Dale Boardman, Sonny Buoncervello, a visiting guest, Gloria Kessering and Sal Ferdico. Front row, from left: Club President Marti Trieschmann, Jean Campana and Philip Wright.
+ O.C. Retired Educators Assoc. The Orange County Retired Educators Association will meet at 10 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 8, 2015, at College Park United Methodist Church, 644 W. Princeton St., Orlando. Gary Moser, of OCREA, will discuss Florida Retirement System Benefits and frequently asked questions. For more information, visit ocrea-fl.org or call (407) 6770446.
+ Rotary Club of Lake Buena Vista Rotary Club of Lake Buena Vista members, guests and others interested in Rotary gathered last week for the club’s First Tuesday Social at the Buena Vista Palace & Spa in Downtown Disney, 1900 E. Buena Vista Drive, Orlando. The event included fellowship and delicious hors d’oeuvres and cocktails.
OCOEE
+ W.O. Seniors The West Orange Seniors will hold its annual Christmas luncheon at 12:30 p.m.
Jeff Brinkman, left, presented the American Legion, Hugh T. Gregory Post 63 donation of $1,000 to Deputy Chief Bill Sullivan, alongside Judd Kuneman, Sgt. Alana Allen and Lt. Keith Ralston. Thursday, Dec. 18, at the Ocoee Lakeshore Center, 150 N. Lakeshore Drive. The cost is $8 per person. Bingo night is held from 3 to 6:30 p.m. every Sunday and from 1 to 3:30 p.m. every Monday, at the senior center. Free arthritis chair exercises, sponsored by Health Central Hospital, take place at 8 a.m. Wednesdays and Fridays. Every Tuesday, line-dancing classes are available at 10 a.m., with a minimum $2 donation, and free belly-dancing exercises are offered at 1 p.m. For more visit westorangeseniors.yolasite.com.
WEST ORANGE DUPLICATE BRIDGE CLUB RESULTS FROM NOV. 13 N-S: 1. N. Fortin – S. Landis 2. Y. Peabody – M. Voorhees 3. B. Ballenger – E. Quinn 4. J. and R. Jett 5. S. Kmiec – M. Ryan; E-W: 1. B. Binkley – B. Brantley 2. J. and B. Hebert 3. B. and F. Taylor 4. S. Jordan – T.K. Miller 5/6 tied B. Young – A. Snook, B. and R. Blair.
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WEST ORANGE TIMES
WOTimes.com
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014
STRENGTH IN NUMBERS by Michael Eng | Executive Editor
15A
GIVE THOSE WITHOUT, CHRISTMAS
The event to build the playground is part of Kiwanis International’s 100th anniversary celebration.
Civic groups complete playground in one day More than 200 volunteers from several local civic organizations came together for Playground Build Day Dec. 6 to complete a new playground for Matthew’s Hope Firm Foundation Preschool, located on the campus of West Orange Church of Christ
in Winter Garden. The volunteers, mostly teenagers, represented organizations such as Matthew’s Hope, Kiwanis International and its high-school extension, Key Club, Boys & Girls Clubs, Orlando City Soccer and Next Community
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Church and more. Starting from an empty lot, the volunteers worked to erect an entire playground in a single day. The event was part of Kiwanis International’s 100th anniversary, which includes building playgrounds throughout the country.
Kyle Bahadoorsingh was among the high-schoolers representing Winter Park High School’s Key Club.
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Tom Stroup, of Matthew’s Hope, helped make the dream of a new playground a reality. Christina Arenas, of the Winter Park High School Key Club, was excited to assist during Playground Build Day.
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16A
WEST ORANGE TIMES
WOTimes.com
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014
PRESERVING THE PAST by Amy Quesinberry Rhode | Community Editor
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Ward Britt, John Murphy and Ron Sikes (holding proclamations) were recognized as History Makers by the Winter Garden Heritage Foundation. Mayor Pro Tem Bob Buchanan, second from left, presented the proclamations. With them are City Commissioner Bobby Olszewski, left, and Lori Gibson, WGHF president.
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HISTORY MAKERS Ward Britt, John Murphy and Ron Sikes were honored for their commitment to preserve Winter Garden’s history. WINTER GARDEN — Three past presidents of the Winter Garden Heritage Foundation who are continuing their work as executive board members were honored in a History Makers program Dec. 3 at Winter Garden City Hall. Ward Britt, John Murphy and Ron Sikes received proclamations recognizing their commitment to the organization and preserving local history. Lori Gibson, the foundation’s current president, spoke about the three prior to the presentation of the framed certificates. Britt served a year on the board before become the group’s leader in 2001. “In those days, life at WGHF was fairly simple,” Gibson said. “A few board members would meet over lunch, agree upon a few things, submit their ideas to the rest of the board at the next meeting, and it was done.” In 2003, plans were made to
purchase a downtown structure built in 1935 for the Winter Garden Theater — and the board became much busier. Five years later, the renovated Garden Theatre opened. Sikes and Murphy joined the board of directors in 2006, and, later that year, Murphy became board president. “The growth and success of the theater operation was what ultimately led to the 2010 board decision, under Ron Sikes’ term as president, to spin off the theater operation as a separate 501(c)(3), leaving WGHF once again with the function of heritage preservation,” Gibson said. “The years between 2001 and 2010 were difficult. Much of the difficulty was the speed in which the organization was growing. When Ward began as board president, WGHF consisted of one small museum with a budget of less than $75,000. By 2010, when Ron
was president, the budget was over a half-million, and the organization was managing two museums, a history center and the Garden Theatre.” Gibson continued: “The leadership team of Ward, John, and Ron provided just the right skills to maneuver us through those tumultuous years. Ward, the hometown boy, provided important friendships and city connections. John brought with him incredible skill in arbitration and reconciliation. And Ron provided the legal background necessary to negotiate the new territory caused by the organization’s rapid growth. Together, the three of them also provided the vision, passion, perseverance, courage and dedication to get the job done.” Ann Ellis, who served as vice president under the three, praised them for their leadership.
PREVIOUS HISTORY MAKER HONOREES
Herbert Pounds Jack Ross Albert Gleason, M.D. Bert and Barbara Roper Larry and Harriette Grimes The King family Jerry and Sue Chicone and Kay Chicone Ustler Holis Holden Ann Ellis Bob Buchanan, mayor pro tem of Winter Garden, gave each past president a framed proclamation. Britt thanked the city for its support, notably Hollis Holden and Jack Quesinberry, former city manager and mayor, respectively, who with the City Commission agreed to give the foundation its first $50,000 to get started. Sikes was equally grateful for the honor. “I think of A.B. Newton, the first mayor of the town, as being a History Maker,” he said. In thanking the WGHF, Murphy said, “The best I can really live up to is History Helper.” Contact Amy Quesinberry Rhode at aqrhode@wotimes. com.
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WEST ORANGE TIMES
WOTimes.com
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014
from the archives
17A
TIMES&OBSERVER
OLD TIMES OBITUARIES
70 YEARS AGO
The acute shortage of favorite brands of cigarettes in Winter Garden is causing much talk by those addicted to the habit of enjoying their smokes. The West Orange Athletic Association banquet was held at the Edgewater Hotel with Frank W. Ross, president, and C.L. Stanford, vice president, announcing the player awards: best defensive back, Tommy Russ; best offensive back, Mallard Clark; best linesman, Albert Walker; and hardest tackler, Thurmon Tucker.
45 YEARS AGO
The annual Winter Garden Rotary Christmas party will be held in the Episcopal Church of the Messiah parish hall. In charge of this year’s event are the Rev. Charles G. Warden, vicar of the church, the Rev. Bronis P. Benesevich, of Resurrection Catholic Church; and Dr. Basil V. Hicks, minister of Oakland Presbyterian Church.
40 YEARS AGO
Col. James F. Adams, of Windermere, recalls the Battle of the Bulge in World War II, marking its 30th anniversary. The rugged weeks are a vivid memory for Adams, at the time a young captain, commanding officer of F Company, 327th Glider Infantry of the 101st Airborne Division. Laying siege to Bastogne, the Germans demanded surrender. Gen. Anthony McAuliffe sent back his famous reply, “Nuts!” which was conveyed by Adams. Adams and his wife, Mary Sue, live on Lake Butler Boulevard.
special thanks to
Winter Garden Heritage Foundation Gladys Davis received this Christmas card in 1929 from a friend or relative named Sadie. It’s postmarked “Ocoee” and addressed simply as “City,” which meant that the card was being delivered to the location of its postmark. Times were certainly simpler then. Gladys was a graduate of the Lakeview High School Class of 1928. The Winter Garden Heritage
Foundation collects and preserves mementos like these donated by many West Orange County families. The Winter Garden Heritage Foundation, which seeks to preserve our heritage and architecture while creating new cultural experiences, is celebrating its third decade with the debut of its new History Research and Education Center.
Lauren Nicole Wilds
Lauren Nicole Wilds, 20, of Winter Garden, Florida, passed away Nov. 23, 2014, and is now resting in peace. Her bubbly, free spirit was loved by all who had the blessing of meeting her. A more-than-talented gymnast, she loved to spend time near the water and with her friends and family. Lauren is survived by her parents, Anthony and Janet Wilds; her sisters, Amy Wilds-Sturgill and Brooke Wilds; and her nieces and nephew, Reese, Rori and Cooper Sturgill. A celebration of Lauren’s life was held Nov. 26 at Collison Carey Hand Funeral Home. A graveside funeral service was held Nov. 28 at Woodlawn Memorial Park. Defy Gravity, with Lauren’s family’s blessing, has set up a fund to honor Lauren’s life and her love of gymnastics. This fund will be used to help send an athlete to National Championships each year. If you would like to make a donation, it can be sent to Defy Gravity, 7432 E. S.R. 50, Groveland, Florida 34736. Please note Lauren Wilds in the memo line.
for S.H. Kress & Co. Shortly after he met his first wife, May Francis Roach Bates (deceased 1959), he enlisted in the U.S. Army and served three years in the Korean Conflict. Upon his Honorable discharge he rejoined S.H. Kress & Co. He married Helen Large Hartwell in 1961 (deceased in 1985), when he was the assistant manager at the West Palm Beach store. He was promoted to manager and was transferred to Lawton, Oklahoma. During his 40 years with the company he was transferred many times — mostly to failing stores because Bob had the ability to turn a profit. He won many awards for top sales and best cost margins. He managed stores in several different states as well as many stores in Florida. One of his favorite expressions was, “Pick yourself up, dust yourself off, and start all over again!” When he retired from S.H. Kress & Co., he returned to Ocoee to care for his mother, Lucille Rebecca Slone Youngblood until she passed in 1995. He is survived by, daughter,
Crystal, and husband, Raphael Kolbjornsen; son, Robert, and wife, Ann Watts Youngblood; daughter, Dawn, and husband, Ray Altman; daughter, Sharon Bates Easter; son, Wade, and wife, Margie Bates; brother, Lewis E., and wife, Dottie Youngblood; sister, Agnes, and husband, Eddie Foote; sister-n-law, Gloria Youngblood (brother Bill C. Youngblood passed earlier this year); and 12 grandchildren. Bob enjoyed fishing, golfing, dancing and being a grandfather. Please visit his memorial wall, acommunityfuneralhome.com/obituaries/Robert-Youngblood-3. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to Alzheimer’s Association, alz.org.
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Robert Carroll Youngblood
Robert Carroll Youngblood, 84, of Ocoee, passed on Dec 4, 2014. He graduated from Ocoee High School and immediately began working as a stockman
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1148 E.Plant St • Winter Garden • Fl 34787
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18A
WOTimes.com
WEST ORANGE TIMES
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014
Sports
YOUTH | HIGH SCHOOL | GOLF | COMMUNITY
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK Adam Puebla averaging 22 points for Legacy Eagles. 3B
WOTIMES.COM
SIDELINES + Fla. League to begin program The Florida Collegiate Summer League, called the Florida League, for short, announced recently that it will kick off a high school baseball program in 2015. The Florida League already operates its College Division, with college baseball players from around the country coming to Central Florida to compete in the two-month summer season, and its Futures League, which includes high school graduates preparing to play at the college level. The new high school division will be focused on developing high school-age players to become collegiate and professional players. The Florida League High School Division teams will consist of 18U, Upperclass, 16U, Underclass and 14U teams. The first tryouts for the teams will take place on Jan. 17 and 18, 2015, at Sanford Memorial Stadium, 1201 S. Mellonville Ave., Sanford. The tryout will have college coaches in attendance.
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014
girls soccer by Steven Ryzewski | Sports Editor
Panthers enter uncharted waters with win streak The Dr. Phillips girls soccer program, which has no district, metro or regional titles to its credit, is embracing a breakout season. ORLANDO — There are no banners hanging for the girls soccer program at Dr. Phillips — no district titles, no Metro Conference championships, no regional tournament success. In a school well documented with athletic tradition and excellence, that can be a little disheartening. But, to this point at least, that is changing for the Panthers this winter. The girls soccer
team rocked Jones on Dec. 4, 9-0, just two days after beating Ocoee, 8-0, for their eighth and ninth consecutive wins. The nine victories is a program record, meaning that, a little over halfway through the 2014-2015 campaign, Dr. Phillips (9-2-1) is already adding to the record books. “The school has such an amazing athletic history, and to be able to (have girls soccer) be a part of that and have our
name written down (for the winning streak), it’s just surprising,” senior midfielder Emily Funston said. “It’s amazing that this team of girls can work so hard to achieve that.” Head coach Joel Dobrowolski is in his third season leading the program after coaching the boys team at Dr. Phillips for six seasons, during which time the Panthers won two Metro titles. Dobrowolski knows better than any of his players just how
Steven Ryzewski
Head coach Joel Dobrowolski has changed the culture of the girls soccer program at Dr. Phillips during his three years at the helm. rich the tradition on campus is and said it is imperative that his program catch up to some of the school’s other programs. “For this program, I would consider my time at the helm a success if we’re able to bring
pop warner by Steven Ryzewski | Sports Editor
+ Isom commits to S. Illinois Daquan Isom, a standout running back for the Dr. Phillips football team who helped lead the Panthers to the regional finals in the Class 8A State Playoffs this fall, has committed to Southern Illinois. Isom, who transferred to Dr. Phillips from Apopka for his final season, selected Southern Illinois over other offers, including FAMU, Alcorn State and Southeast Missouri State.
+ Montverde boys to play on ESPN2 The boys basketball team from Montverde Academy will be competing in a nationally televised game on ESPN2 Dec. 12. The Eagles, ranked No. 1 in the nation by USA Today, will face nationally-ranked Bishop O’Dowd on their home floor inside the Montverde Academy Center for Sportsmanship and Wellness. Montverde is led by Ben Simmons, who is committed to play at Louisiana State University next fall.
SEE SOCCER / 3B
FRESH FACES
by Steven Ryzewski | Sports Editor
CFCA boys hoops have impressive early season With a new coach and some talented newcomers to the program, the Eagles have already eclipsed their win total from last season.
+ DP alum sets college record Former Dr. Phillips standout Shawn Moffitt was named the American Athletic Conference Special Teams Player of the Week Dec. 8, after his performance for the UCF Knights against the East Carolina Pirates Dec. 4. Moffitt made 4-of-6 field goals and both extra-point attempts for the Knights in a win over the Pirates to clinch a share of the conference championship. In doing so, he became the program’s all-time leading scorer with 305 points. He is also atop the program record books in field goals made, with 51, and third in school history with 78 consecutive extra points made.
home the first championship of what we hope to be many,” Dobrowolski said. “I’m trying to establish a tradition with this program.”
SUPER BOWL
THRILLER
Jaquarri Powell powers his way past a defender from Brick City, N.J., during the first round of the Pop Warner Super Bowl on Sunday morning.
The Panthers’ Unlimited team scored a 22-18 come-from-behind victory over an opponent from New Jersey to advance to the semifinals. LAKE BUENA VISTA — The Dr. Phillips Panthers Unlimited weight class team opened the first round of the 2014 Pop Warner Super Bowl with a thrilling, come-from-behind victory Dec. 7. Caleb McMillan ran the ball in from nine yards out with just over 20 seconds to play, giving the Panthers a 22-18 victory over Brick City (New Jersey) at Disney’s Wide World of Sports Complex. McMillan’s run came after the Panthers received the ball with roughly 90 seconds to play, down 18-14. Dr. Phillips faced a fourth-and-20 earlier in the drive, but a pass from Thomas Furry to Derrick Mays kept the team’s hopes alive. Later, a pass from Furry to Devon Buchanon helped set up the McMillan run. “It’s been the same all year,” head coach Tim Mara said. “This team just doesn’t quit — they somehow, some way find a way to win the football game.” The Panthers scored three times, in total, with Jaquarri Powell taking one to the house earlier in the second half and Parker Mara tossing a touchdown pass to Buchanon in the first quarter.
The two teams were tied at 6-6 at the half before things got wild in the second half. “It was fun,” Mara said. “I’ve coached football now, it’s now my 25th year of coaching, and that’s probably the most exciting game I’ve ever been a part of.” With the win, Dr. Phillips advanced to the semifinals of the Unlimited Super Bowl Brackets (ages 14-and-under). On Wednesday morning, after press time, the Panthers played the Everett Crimson Tide, hailing from Massachusetts. The winner of that game will advance to the 2014 National Championship, scheduled for 9 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 13, against the winner of the other semifinal contest between the Reno Miners (Nevada) and the La Jolla Torreys (California). The losers will play in a consolation contest for third place, also at 9 a.m. Saturday. Dr. Phillips captured the Southeast Regional Championship Nov. 29 with a 31-6 victory over the Arlington Seminoles. Unlike the dozens of other teams from around the country — and the globe — that
SEE PANTHERS / 3B
Photos by Steven Ryzewski
Dr. Phillips’ Devon Buchanon looks an eventual-touchdown pass from Parker Mara into his hands.
OCOEE — It would seem football isn’t the only sport on the campus of Central Florida Christian Academy experiencing a notable turnaround. The Eagles boys basketball team, which went 1-24 on the season in 2013-14, is off to a 4-1 start under first-year coach Jonathan McClintock. CFCA was dealt its first loss of the season Dec. 4 by Agape Christian Academy, just two days after the Eagles registered an emphatic 73-41 victory on the road over Legacy Charter. McClintock, who has 16 years of experience and most recently was the head coach at Grace University, has instilled a sense of confidence in his players that has CFCA soaring early in the season. “I feel really, really blessed to have the guys that we have in our program,” McClintock said after the win over Legacy. “There’s not a guy in the program or family that hasn’t sacrificed something to come together. … We’ve just got really coachable, good young men, and I’m just really fortunate.” McClintock is perhaps most fortunate to have the addition of the Treacy brothers, Jerred and Dante. The two guards are a force for the Eagles, both with the ability to get into the lane and knock down shots from the perimeter. During the Dec. 2 win over the Eagles, Jerred Treacy, a junior, led the team with 21 points, and Dante Treacy, a freshman, chipped in 15 points. “They both have a good feel for the game,” McClintock said. “They’ve both played a lot of basketball, so there’s not really a whole lot of situations they haven’t seen. The play off each other well — there is a brother thing going on there.” CFCA runs with a fairly small, wing-heavy lineup, but anchoring the Eagles in the post is 6-foot-5 freshman Ajay Green. “Ajay’s a really strong kid, and he’s tough to prevent from getting to the spot he wants to get,” McClintock said. “He’s pretty skilled and he’s growing — he’s doing a great job.”
SEE CFCA / 3B
2B
WEST ORANGE TIMES
WOTimes.com
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014
FRESH PRODUCE DAILY
SIDELINE SCENE
Coach proud of alumnus in NBA Dr. Phillips boys hoops coach Anthony Long ordered NBA League Pass to keep up with former star Shane Larkin, now with the New York Knicks. Anthony Long has coached more than his fair share of tremendous ballplayers during his time as the head coach of boys basketball at Dr. Phillips. Long, who has never won fewer than 20 games per season during his 12 years with the program (part of a larger streak for the program of 21 consecutive seasons with 20-plus wins), has seen the likes of Chris Warren, Jason Rich and, most recently, RaShawn “Pookie” STEVEN Powell come RYZEWSKI through his program. Powell is currently a sophomore at the University of Memphis, Rich (who starred collegiately at Florida State) is playing professionally in France, and Warren (who played his college ball at Ole Miss) is playing professionally in Turkey. And although all of those careers, at their varying stages, are impressive, there is another DP alum who has Long even prouder than usual — Shane Larkin, who, at times, has been
the starting point guard for the New York Knicks. “I just couldn’t be prouder,” Long said. “I’m just bursting with pride when I watch him. The starting point guard for the New York Knicks — I mean, what else needs to be said?” Larkin made his way from the Dallas Mavericks to the Knicks by way of a trade during the offseason. Expected to be more of a bench player, Larkin got an opportunity to show what he can do early in the season due to an injury to Jose Calderon. Since then, Larkin, the son of baseball great Barry Larkin, has shown he is more than a capable NBA player. Courtesy of New York Knicks He is averaging 23 minutes Shane Larkin starred for DP in per game, 5.6 points per high school. game and 2.3 assists per game. A recent headline in achievements from the prothe New York Post read “The gram’s official Twitter account, improbable rise and growth of @DP_Boys_Hoops. Shane Larkin.” When asked what Larkin is Improbable to many, sure, doing better this season from but it’s not altogether surprisa season ago during his time ing to Long. in Dallas, Long suggests his Long, who ordered NBA former star, who played colLeague Pass this season so legiately at Miami, is simply he can watch all of Larkin’s maturing as an NBA player. games, tweets enthusiastically “He’s not turning the ball about the former Panther’s
over,” Long said. “He has very, very few turnovers, and his assist-to-turnover ratio is great. He’s shooting better — all of his statistics are better this year to his first year in the NBA.” Long has plenty to be excited about with regard to his current roster, too. Dr. Phillips is off to a 4-2 start to the season, with its two losses coming to two well-regarded programs in Windermere Prep and Providence (Jacksonville). The Panthers have athleticism, length, a mix of youthful and experienced players and depth off the bench — a lethal combination that has the team considered among the best in Central Florida. So, although the veteran coach is focused on the challenge at hand of getting his program back to Lakeland, it wouldn’t be entirely surprising to find Long taking a break from watching film of opponents to check in on the New York Knicks and the team’s familiar face in blue and orange. For more commentary and insights, follow Steven Ryzewski on Twitter, @StevenR_ WOTO.
battle of winter garden by Steven Ryzewski | Sports Editor
W.O., Foundation to 2015, 2016 seasons Week One of the 2015 and 2016 high-school football seasons will feature a “Battle of Winter Garden” of sorts. Foundation Academy head coach Brad Lord confirmed on Dec. 4 that his Lions and the West Orange Warriors will play each other twice — the season opener for both teams in 2015 and 2016 — with both games taking place at West
Orange High School. Lord and West Orange coach Bob Head have history working together. Lord served as the defensive line coach under Head during Head’s first season as head coach at Olympia High School. It will be a bit of a David and Goliath situation, because Foundation competes at the Class 2A level, and the War-
riors are a rising program in Class 8A — the highest classification in Florida — but Lord said the challenge should help his team prepare for important district games later in the season, as well as increase interest in football in Winter Garden. The teams both made the state playoffs in their respective classifications in 2014. Foundation finished as the
runner-up in its district and lost in the regional semifinals to Warner Christian. The Lions finished 2014 with a 5-6 record. West Orange won its district for the first time since 1999 and got its first-ever playoff win before falling to Apopka in the regional semifinals. The Warriors completed the 2014 season with an 11-1 record.
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WEST ORANGE TIMES
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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014
hustle points by Chris Mayer | Contributing Writer
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK
3B
by Steven Ryzewski | Sports Editor
Olympia High School boys ADAM PUEBLA use tough schedule to improve Although the Legacy Eagles boys basketball team is off to a slow start at 2-3 this winter, the Eagles’ last two games have been wins, and sophomore guard Adam Puebla has been a bright spot since the beginning of the season. Puebla is averaging 22 points per contest and has scored as many as 29 in Legacy’s win over Halifax Dec. 5, making him our Athlete of the Week.
The Titans are just 1-5 but have played some of the area’s best teams well and are looking to turn the corner. OCOEE — Olympia High School is quickly becoming a difficult boys varsity basketball team to play. And that suits first-year Titans head coach Matt Wheeler just fine. This year marks a new era at Olympia with former coach Mark Griseck now across town at Apopka High. Wheeler is in the process of transitioning from girls basketball — where he spent last season directing the varsity team at Olympia — to the boys game amid a challenging early schedule.
AROUND THE AREA
• Heading into a game on Tuesday after press time, the Ocoee boys team was 6-0. The Knights have picked up impressive wins over Edgewater, Deltona and Apopka already this season. Ocoee will take on Evans on the road on Friday. • Dr. Phillips fell to 4-2 after a thrilling loss to Providence (Jacksonville) on Saturday, 55-52. The Panthers will play in the headline matchup at Saturday’s Hoops with a Heart event at Oviedo High School, taking on the Lions — the defending state champs in 7A — at 7:30 p.m. • Olympia’s girls team is off to an impressive 8-2 start, most recently defeating University (Orlando), 44-39. Taylor Hair had 11 points in the victory. • Windermere Prep’s boys team (4-2) continued its stellar play of late on Saturday, traveling to Tampa and defeating Jesuit (4-3), 69-63.
The Titans played November road contests at two-time defending Class 4A state champion Lake Highland Prep and rival Dr. Phillips. They also dropped a four-point overtime decision to defending 2A state champion Orlando Christian Prep at the fifth annual Metro vs. Florida Challenge, before opening their Class 8A District 3 schedule last week with single-digit setbacks to Evans (7162) and Ocoee (77-69). Olympia departed Ocoee High Dec. 5 with a 1-5 overall mark, but Wheeler appreciated his team’s resilience against a talented Knights squad that extended its season-opening winning streak to six games. “We’ve been playing a lot of tough teams, and sometimes, that’s good, because it kind of reveals our character and who we are,” Wheeler said. “The truth comes out, and we’ve got to assess where we are and whether we’re going to keep stepping up. But we’re fighting — we’ve been fighting every game — and the last few have shown that we’re getting better every game.” Olympia will have several more opportunities to progress this month, with six games on tap prior to a scheduled appearance at Vero Beach High’s 32nd annual Holiday Hoopla Tournament (Dec. 27 to 30). The Titans faced Trinity Prep and Apopka to open this week — results were unavailable at press time — in advance of a Dec. 12 home game against district rival West Orange. “Every team has to go through the storm phase where you learn who you are and, once you weather that, you go forward,” Wheeler said. “And we’re just trying to develop.” Olympia faced an early 12-point deficit against Grant Riller-led Ocoee. But the Ti-
PANTHERS / 1B
DETAILS
have converged upon the Wide World of Sports Complex this past week, the Panthers have not had to travel, and thus, their experience is a bit different. Teams from out of the immediate area are staying in nearby hotels. Although the team hailing from Orlando doesn’t have a need for the “Orlando experience,” Mara said his boys were still inspired once they arrived to begin competition. “When we got to walk in yesterday for our weigh-in … you could see the kids’ eyes light up,” Mara said. “Disney does an unbelievable job with that complex.” In an event structured like this one, Mara and his team will have only a few days to prepare for a very talented team in Everett. Much the same, the Panthers had to do their best to prepare for Brick City — a team they had never faced before and, in all likelihood, will never face again. “We Googled, and we found some YouTube stuff and a few highlight (clips) that they post-
WEDNESDAY’S SEMIFINAL The boys from Dr. Phillips took on the Everett Crimson Tide, of Massachusetts, on Wednesday morning after press time. A recap and photos from the big game can be found online at wotimes.com.
SOCCER / 1B A season ago, the Panthers went 8-11-2. Two years ago, when the team’s current seniors were sophomores, Dr. Phillips went 9-13. So what’s different this winter? “Honestly, it’s just the cohesion and the relationship between us,” senior defender Catherine Moffitt said. “Just seeing us progress and getting better and better each year, it makes me so happy.” That cohesion took root even before this season began, Dobrowolski said. “We’ve put in the work in the offseason,” Dobrowolski said. “We had more girls playing club soccer this year. We did spring training with the girls; we did summer training; we
CHAMPIONSHIP Depending on the result of Wednesday’s contest, the Panthers either will play in the 2014 National Championship or in a consolation game for third place. Both games are set for 9 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 13, at Disney’s Wide World of Sports Complex. For more information, visit popwarnersuperbowl.com. ed,” Mara said. “We had a good understanding of what they do and what they run. … We watch film a lot as a group. “That was a very good football team out of New Jersey.” Contact Steven Ryzewski at sryzewski@wotimes.com. did fall conditioning.” The third-year coach also believes the wins are begetting more wins as his girls increasingly become more confident. “That’s part of why the wins keep coming — it’s the confidence factor,” Dobrowolski said. Although some of the schools included in the winning streak are not known as soccer powerhouses, victories over rival Olympia and Trinity Prep stand out as significant. The girls also are proud of the goal differential over the winning streak — the Panthers have outscored opponents 47-1 over the past nine games, and the defensive element is the best part, Dobrowolski said. “Only allowing one goal in nine games — my credo for the past three years has been, ‘We
This year is your first year on varsity and, already, you’re the team’s leading scorer. What’s that like? Of course, I feel a little bit pressured being young and having to be one of the better scorers and leaders on the team. But I like that feeling and that pressure being on me. Steven Ryzewski
Dean Nelson and the Olympia Titans have played a tough schedule so far this season. tans scored 24 points during the last 7 minutes, 5 seconds, of the first half to close within 33-29 at intermission, as Carl Cooper fueled the comeback with three baskets from behind the arc. “(The Knights) are a great team, and they’re athletic,” Wheeler said. “We couldn’t make any mistakes, especially getting back in transition and with our communication, and every time we did, they made us pay for it.” Ocoee gradually built a 7158 lead with just over three minutes remaining, before Olympia closed the game with an 11-6 run. Riller (who signed last month with the College of Charleston) scored Ocoee’s final six points to keep the Titans at bay, but Wheeler liked his team’s offensive execution with the outcome seemingly decided. “I really liked how we played at the end offensively,” he said. “I just want to move, cut and play fast, and we’ve been stagnant. That’s kind of the first time it finally started clicking, and it took us being down to fight back and kind of see what we can do.” Seniors Scott Barbour and Cooper and impressive freshman Ronaldo Segu give Olym-
pia a formidable trio of guards who can handle the ball. They also combined for 84% of the Titans’ points against Ocoee. “That’s how we want to play: I want to keep driving and kicking it out,” Wheeler said. “If it’s open, shoot the three or drive to the basket. I’ve got a lot of interchangeable players, so whoever’s open can get it going. If they’re being guarded, they can pass it to the next guy.” Wheeler has opted to use Segu and fellow freshman Dejuan Lockett in the starting lineup. Lockett, an athletic 6-foot-4-inch forward, totaled 19 points and 13 rebounds against OCP. “Dejuan has been awesome, and we knew he was going to be good,” Wheeler said. “He’s developed a lot since playing (junior varsity) in the summer, and in the fall league, we kind of forced him into to some minutes. He was going to be a contributor, but now he’s a key guy.” The same can be said for the 5-foot-11 Segu, who demonstrates strong play-making skills for a ninth-grader. “The greatest thing about Ronaldo is he just wants to work,” Wheeler said. “He’s always in the gym working, and he wants to be great.”
Averaging more than 20 points per game is impressive. Are you at all surprised at your play so far? If I just get to my places in the right spots on the court, and I can just make shots, then I’m pretty sure that I can score even more than that a game. But, yeah, it’s still surprising. What’s been a point of emphasis with you in terms of working on your own game? My mid-range jumper is the main thing. Also, just getting my assists (per game) up and looking for my teammates and getting (the ball to) them in the right spots. Obviously the team isn’t off to the best possible start, but what have you seen that is encouraging so far this season? We’re getting better every day. Every practice, we’re working hard. Coach (Matthew) Post is (instilling in us) that the score is not the biggest thing. It’s just that we’re getting better every game and every practice. What’s been your own personal highlight so far this season? I had 29 points against Halifax, and that was my high for the season so far, so that’s probably the best game and the best moment. What do you and your teammates have to do to get better and turn some of these losses into wins? We just need to step our defense up, especially in the second half and fourth quarter. We just need to step it up, and I think we’ll be fine from there.
Steven Ryzewski
Junior guard Jerred Treacy is one of CFCA’s go-to scorers.
CFCA / 1B Things will get tougher for CFCA as the schedule picks up and the program continues along in district play in Class 2A District 4. Upcoming games for the Eagles include a back-to-back Dec. 11 and 12, with CFCA traveling to take on Trinity Christian on Thursday and hosting Halifax the next day. Both contests are district games
NINE SO FINE Here are the results for the Dr. Phillips girls soccer team over the course of its nine-game winning streak: Nov. 5: def. Gateway, 8-0 Nov. 7: def. East Ridge, 3-0 Nov. 11: def. Boone, 1-0 Nov. 13: def. Evans, 8-0 Nov. 18: def. Olympia, 3-0 Nov. 20: def. Lyman, 5-0 Dec. 1: def. Trinity Prep, 2-1 Dec. 2: def. Ocoee, 8-0 Dec. 4: def. Jones, 9-0 SCORING TOTAL: DP 47, Opponents 1 (since Nov. 5)
defend first,’” he said. “The play of our senior goalkeeper Sarah Kollas (eight shutouts so far this season), it’s just been lights-out.”
and tipoff at 7 p.m. There is still plenty of work to be done, but chief among the team’s priorities is to maintain its focus and improve on defense as the season progresses. “Our approach doesn’t change the whole year,” McClintock said. “We think we can be a good man-to-man defensive team.” Contact Steven Ryzewski at sryzewski@wotimes.com.
Dr. Phillips took on Montverde on Tuesday after press time — a tall task against a team that is 15-0-1 so far this season. The Panthers return to action at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 11, when they host Wekiva, the first part of a back-to-back. Dr. Phillips will take to the road at 5:30 p.m Friday to do battle with The First Academy. Whether the streak is still alive by the end of the week or not, what’s important for the Panthers is that they turn their good play into playoff success for the first time in program history. “We’re on our way,” Funston said. “We’re a good team with good players, and we work hard.” Contact Steven Ryzewski at sryzewski@wotimes.com.
How long have you been playing hoops, and when did it become a passion for you? I’ve been playing since I was 9 years old, and I would say I was passionate from the start. I knew that it was something I could be good at and if I worked at it, I could be good. Whether a pro or collegiate player, is there anyone you try to model your game after? Tyus Jones. He’s a freshman at Duke, and he’s probably my favorite basketball player, and that’s the guy I look up to. Which NBA team do you follow the most? I like the (Detroit) Pistons. Brandon Jennings is another big player (I follow). How have you enjoyed being at Legacy for these past two years? I like it. You know, it’s small and everybody knows everybody. It’s not too big. I have a good relationship with a lot of people here and the teachers, so I like it.
What’s your favorite class? Probably English. English is a fun class. Mrs. Wiggers is a good teacher, so I like that class. When you’re in English class, which do you prefer — writing or reading? Reading. Is playing college basketball a goal of yours? Definitely. That’s my main goal. Whether it’s Division I, Division II, wherever. I have no schools (in particular) in mind right now. And what would you like to study in college? Probably sports medicine, trying to stay on that kind of track of sports. What are you looking forward to the most about the holidays as they approach? Just hanging with family — family is really big, and it’s really pushed in my family. I like to just spend time with family and hang out. Got any hobbies that people might not know about you? No, I don’t really have a lot of hobbies. I just listen to a lot of music, I guess. Who are you listening to the most recently? Right now, I listen to The Weekend — he’s probably my favorite artist. I like a lot of old-school (music) — Bone Thugs, Tupac. What’s a place you’d like to visit and why? Seattle. It seems like a cool city. Isaiah Thomas and Nate Robinson are from there, and I think it would just be a cool city to visit. Not too big, not too small.
4B
WEST ORANGE TIMES
WOTimes.com
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014
on the pitch by Steven Ryzewski | Sports Editor Celebrate the Holiday Season at Nehrling Gardens
Holiday Celebration & Amaryllis Festival at
Saturday, December 13th 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
2267 Hempel Avenue, Gotha
Enchanted Walkabouts with John Springer
• Amaryllis bulbs and blooms • Garden Tours • Nature Crafts for Kids • Entertainment throughout the day • Garden Themed Gift Market • Food vendors • Photos with Santa
The Gift of Giving... We will also be collecting unwrapped toys and non-perishable food items for local charities.
Ocoee High’s young roster shows improvement during busy stretch Inexperience costs Knights upset bid on road at West Orange, but Ocoee is trending upward heading into holiday break. WINTER GARDEN — It’s been a busy stretch for the Ocoee boys soccer team, and through it, all the young Knights are continuing to improve. Ocoee (5-2-3) played four games last week, picking up wins over The Master’s Academy and Lake Minneola on Monday and Tuesday, a 2-2 draw in a rivalry match against West Orange (3-1-3) on Friday and a 3-2 loss to Bishop Moore in a makeup game on Saturday afternoon. During the match against the Warriors, played at West Orange, the Knights took the lead twice but also allowed tying goals each time within just a few minutes of their own score. “I felt like we just gave a little bit of a letdown; we made a bad decision — a youthful decision that maybe a little more experience would have settled,” Peter Moore, the head coach for Ocoee, said about one of the goals his club allowed. “I thought we came back hard. … We fought through it, and that’s one thing this team has showed is a lot of fight all year.” The Knights’ first goal came in the contest’s 17th minute, when Omar Ortega slipped one past the goalkeeper for West Orange. Ocoee’s second goal came in the 42nd minute via Adrian Lopez. Each time, however, the Warriors’ Felipe Silva scored in reply just minutes later, with Moore diagnosing inexperience as one of the culprits. “I probably had five sophomores on the field at any one time tonight, and I had a freshman out there all night,” Moore said. The Knights have registered a few quality wins but also have yet to win — or lose — in
Steven Ryzewski
The Ocoee Knights battled rival West Orange to a 2-2 draw on Friday night in a district match. district play. Ocoee’s three district matches as of press time have all been ties. The Knights played at Lake Highland Prep on Tuesday and at Lake Nona on Wednesday after press time. They will play Dr. Phillips Dec. 12 at home. Moore said he hoped the game at Lake Highland Prep, which, like West Orange, plays on a turf surface, would enable his team to get a bit more comfortable playing on turf — somewhere he believes they have struggled. Speaking on Friday night before Saturday’s loss to the Hornets, Moore remarked that two wins, a loss and a tie wouldn’t be a bad week for his team during this busy stretch. “My outlook is, on the next four games, I’d love to say we pick up four wins, but the realism is if we can pick up two wins, a tie, and a loss or two wins and two ties — that’s an excellent week for us on that schedule,” Moore said. “Then we get a little bit of a breather.”
WEST ORANGE, WPS GIRLS STILL UNDEFEATED
The girls soccer teams from West Orange and Windermere Prep still have yet to taste defeat this season. Both squads played on Dec. 4 before the weekend, scoring wins. Windermere Prep beat up on Cornerstone Charter, 8-0, behind six goals from Taylor Duran and three assists by Lourdes Rubero. The Lakers are 12-0-1. West Orange, meanwhile, cruised to a 4-0 win over University (Orlando) behind a stellar night in goal from Kayla Strehle, who had eight saves. West Orange played an important district match against Apopka on Tuesday, after press time, and will next host Lake Minneola Dec. 16. Windermere Prep will travel to take on Pine Castle Christian Academy on Thursday and will have played The First Academy (on Monday) and Geneva School (Wednesday) after press time. Contact Steven Ryzewski at sryzewski@wotimes.com.
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WEST ORANGE TIMES
WOTimes.com
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014
5B
REAL ESTATE by Michael Eng | Executive Editor
Lakefront home brings $1.3M The following are West Orange residential real-estate sales from Nov. 28 to to Dec. 4. A lakefront Windermere home in The Lakes community topped all real-estate transactions last week. The home at 10521 Down Lakeview Circle, Windermere, sold Dec. 3, for $1.3 million. Built in 1984, it has five bedrooms, five-and-one-half baths, a pool and 4,503 square feet on 2.86 acres. The price per square foot is $288.70.
GOTHA SADDLEBROOK
The home at 3374 Furlong Way, Gotha, sold Dec. 4, for $325,000. Built in 2001, it has four bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,686 square feet. The price per square foot is $121.
OAKLAND
Michael Eng
JOHNS COVE
This home, in Johns Lake Pointe in Winter Garden, sold for $630,000. Built by Standard Pacific, the Barrington model features a wrought-iron circular staircase, gourmet kitchen, a morning room and private guest ensuite.
The home at 1007 Johns Point Drive, Oakland, sold Nov. 28, for $754,400. Built in 2004, it has four bedrooms, fourand-one-half baths, a pool, a boat ramp and 4,663 square feet. The price per square foot is $161.78. The home at 913 Johns Point Drive, Oakland, sold Dec. 3, for $460,000 (short sale). Built in 2001, it has five bedrooms, three baths and 3,740 square feet. The price per square foot is $122.99.
The home at 6012 Greatwater Drive, Windermere, sold Nov. 28, for $1.18 million. Built in 2000, it has four bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths, a pool and 5,227 square feet. The price per square foot is $225.75.
WINTER GARDEN
JOHNS LANDING
LAKE DAVIS RESERVE
ALEXANDER RIDGE
The home at 609 Strihal Loop, Oakland, sold Dec. 1, for $325,000. Built in 2002, it has four bedrooms, threeand-one-half baths, a pool and 3,263 square feet. The price per square foot is $99.60.
WINDERMERE
pool and 3,080 square feet. The price per square foot is $129.87.
square feet. The price per square foot is $129.68.
KEENE’S POINTE
The home at 13220 Sunkiss Loop, Windermere, sold Dec. 3, for $290,000. Built in 2005, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,605 square feet. The price per square foot is $111.32.
The home at 5441 Marleon Drive, Windermere, sold Nov. 28, for $802,000 (REO/bank owned). Built in 2008, it has four bedrooms, five-and-onehalf baths, a pool and 6,351 square feet. The price per square foot is $126.28.
MERRICK LANDING
GLENMUIR
The home at 11239 Ledgement Lane, Windermere, sold Dec. 1, for $400,000. Built in 2002, it has four bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths, a
The town house at 13520 Carroway St., Windermere, sold Dec. 1, for $180,000 (REO/ bank owned). Built in 2003, it has three bedrooms, twoand-one-half baths and 1,388
SUMMERPORT
The home at 2070 Nerva Road, Winter Garden, sold Nov. 30, for $388,000. Built in 2014, it has six bedrooms, four baths and 4,259 square feet. The price per square foot is $91.10. The home at 2061 Nerva Road, Winter Garden, sold Nov. 28, for $335,490. Built in 2014, it has five bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths and 3,559 square feet. The price per square foot is $94.27. The home at 2042 Solar Drive, Winter Garden, sold
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SNAPSHOT Total Sales: 28 High Sale Price: $1.3 million Low Sale Price: $67,500 REO/Bank Owned: Four Short Sales: One Nov. 28, for $312,090. Built in 2014, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,919 square feet. The price per square foot is $106.92. The home at 2242 Romanum Drive, Winter Garden, sold Nov. 28, for $310,000. Built in 2014, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,919 square feet. The price per square foot is $106.20. The home at 2254 Romanum Drive, Winter Garden, sold Nov. 28, for $294,850. Built in 2014, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,919 square feet. The price per
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6B
WEST ORANGE TIMES
WOTimes.com
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014
BUSINESSBRIEFS + Ashton Woods opens Peachtree WINDERMERE — Ashton Woods Homes recently opened its newest community of Peachtree Park, located off Reams Road and Center Drive, two miles from State Road 535. Michael Roche, vice president of sales and marketing for Ashton Woods Homes in the Orlando region, said there are 28 home sites in the community surrounded by nature preserve. Homes by Ashton Woods, priced from $309,990 to $379,990 and ranging from 2,104 square feet of living area to 3,315 square feet, feature unique designs and Key West-style architecture. The neighborhood has lawn maintenance included. The Bimini model, with four bedrooms, a game room, threeand-one-half baths and 3,315 square feet of living area, is open and ready for viewing. It is priced from $379,990.
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Bellária, a private estate home community in Windermere. Cleary brings more than 10 years of experience in real-estate development, consulting and sales. He most recently was a development associate at an Orlando real-estate development firm, where he executed sales, leasing and market research. Cleary also held a position as a sales and analyst associate at a Winter Park real-estate consulting and brokerage firm, where he specialized in acquisitions. Cleary received his MBA from Rollins College and a bachelor’s degree from the University of Richmond. Ryan joins Toll Brothers with more than 15 years of expertise in the construction industry. He previously worked as project manager for a construction company in Longwood. There, he supervised and coordinated project field construction teams’ day-to-day activities. Ryan received his master’s degree in construction management from Drexel University and his bachelor’s degree from Western Governors University. “Toll Brothers continues to seek opportunities to grow its presence in the Orlando area,” said André Vidrine, Toll Brothers Central Florida Division vice president. For more information, visit TollBrothers.com/FLC.
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This 3 bdrm.1Ba. Cute as a button, and ready to move-in. Completely remodeled. New doors and windows, new drywall with foam insulation, new wood cabinets, all appliances stay, refrigerator, dishwasher, microwave! Laminate flooring throughout, all electric and plumbing has been replaced, new front and back porch ... Completely painted inside and out. Ideal for a first time home buyer or someone wanting to down size. Fantastic location...Walk to downtown, walk/ride the West Orange Trail... ***No HOA *** corner lot*** if you have been looking for a home in Winter Garden with a great location this is it! Don’t delay, see it today!!! Asking only $175,000
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3 bdrm. 2 Ba. Beauty in Winter Garden!!! This home is situated on a picturesque 1 acre lot fenced yard and gate. Very unique, country atmosphere with shopping only minutes away and access to 429, Turnpike and 408. You will be amazed at the beauty and the surroundings. Walk up the steps and enter the 2nd floor of this gorgeous home with stone fireplace in the living room, formal dining, kitchen w/stainless steel applances, wood cabinets, quartz countertops, 2 bedrooms, bath and laundry room. The 3rd level is the master bedroom, master bath and loft. The home is in pristine condition a pampered beauty...If you have been looking for a home without an HOA, look no further, you need to see this!!! Asking only $299,000.
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4.76 ACRES, THE VALUE IS IN THE LAND IT HAS ROAD FRONTAGE ON OCOEE-APOPKA ROAD IN OCOEE. THE CURRENT ZONING IS AGRICULTURAL A-1, YOU CAN CHANGE IT TO COMMERICAL ZONING FOR YOUR NEEDS!!! THIS WOULD MAKE A GREAT PLACE FOR FAST FOOD, OFFICE BUILDING, GARAGE OR CONVENIENT STORE. The property currently has 3 homes on it, one of the homes is a fixer-upper with wood frame construction. The other 2 homes are block, address at 411 is a 3 bdrm., 1 ba. split bedroom plan, livingroom, eat-in kitchen, familyroom and 1 car garage and is move in condition.The other block home is a rental. Asking $1,600,000.
LOCATED ON PLANT ST.
DOWNTOWN WINTER GARDEN!
Prime downtown location, this is a great business oportunity for you!!! Currently zoned R-NC (residential neighborhood commercial). The value of this property is in the land and not the home. The home is a 2 bedroom, 1 bath, living and dining room according to Orange County records it was built in 1941. Asking only $499,000.
GATED COMMUNITY-LAKE ACCESS!!!
This is a dream come true!!! Gated Community/Lake Access!!! Gorgeous 2-story with master bedroom on the first floor!!! Step into this impressive dramatic 2 story foyer. Formal living room with plenty of room for big comfortable chairs & sofa, spacious but intimate dinning room, entertain in uncrowded comfort in the spacious family room with surround sound! Laundry room and half bath. Eat-in kitchen complete with island, desk and french doors leading to the LARGE screened lanai and spa. Upstairs you will find the loft perfect for a playroom, office or study area!!! There are also 3 bedrooms, 2 baths and the media room that features a large screen, comfortable chairs and everything needed to watch your favorite movie. Easy access to turnpike, 429, 408 and the West Orange Trail!!! Asking Only $325,000.00
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The home at 1012 Vinsetta Circle, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 1, for $333,453. Built in 2014, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,291 square feet. The price per square foot is $145.55.
COBBLESTONE
The home at 242 Black Springs Lane, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 3, for $245,000. Built in 2007, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,909 square feet. The price per square foot is $128.34.
INDEPENDENCE/ SIGNATURE LAKES
The home at 14519 Whittridge Drive, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 1, for $253,000 (REO/bank owned). Built in 2006, it has four bedrooms, four baths and 3,487 square feet. The price per square foot is $72.56. The town house at 14821 Bridgewater Crossing Blvd., Winter Garden, sold Dec. 2, for $215,990. Built in 2014, it has three bedrooms, twoand-one-half baths and 1,620 square feet. The price per square foot is $133.33. The home at 15435 Avenue of the Arbors, Winter Garden,
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Kimberly Suedmeyer
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square foot is $101.01. The home at 2071 Nerva Road, Winter Garden, sold Nov. 28, for $286,500. Built in 2014, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 2,231 square feet. The price per square foot is $128.42.
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REAL ESTATE / PAGE 5B
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3 Bdrm. 2Ba. CHARMING, COMFORTABLE AND COZY!!! Corner lot with stately trees for plenty of shade, fenced yard, house freshly painted. Open floor plan, split bdrms, foyer, formal dining, eat-in kitchen. All the appliances stay, including range, refrigerator, dishwasher and microwave. Living/great room has a beautiful brick wood burning fireplace, sliding glass doors, 36x12 screened lanai, open paver patio 15x13. Metal storage shed and privacy fenced yard. Move in ready! MOTIVATED SELLER! Asking only $144,000
100 West Plant Street, Winter Garden FL 34787 (O) 407-656-7814 Located in the heart of Historic Winter Garden
sold Dec. 1, for $180,000. Built in 2011, it has two bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,541 square feet. The price per square foot is $116.81.
JOHNS LAKE POINTE
The home at 15240 Johns Lake Pointe Blvd., Winter Garden, sold Dec. 2, for $630,000. Built in 2013, it has six bedrooms, four-and-one-half baths and 5,359 square feet. The price per square foot is $117.56.
OVERLOOK AT HAMLIN
The home at 7882 Minutemen Loop, No. 10, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 2, for $288,000. Built in 2014, it has five bedrooms, three baths and 1,944 square feet. The price per square foot is $148.15.
SUMMERLAKE
The home at 14738 Porter Road, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 2, for $303,747. Built in 2014, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 1,974 square feet. The price per square foot is $153.87.
TUCKER OAKS
The condominium at 1432 Broken Oak Drive, No. 311, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 2, for $127,000. Built in 2007, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,216 square feet. The price per square foot is $104.44.
WESTSIDE TOWNHOMES
The town house at 1410 Fettler Way, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 1, for $67,500 (REO/bank owned). Built in 2004, it has one bedrooms, two baths and 1,076 square feet. The price per square foot is $62.73.
WINDERMERE
The home at 1524 Windermere Road, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 4, for $392,000. Built in 1989, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths, a pool and 3,163 square feet on .96 acres. The price per square foot is $123.93.
WINTERMERE POINTE
The home at 2460 Prairie View Drive, Winter Garden, sold Dec. 4, for $282,400. Built in 2003, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,404 square feet. The price per square foot is $117.47.
WEST ORANGE TIMES
WOTimes.com
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014
RAIN
WEST ORANGE
(INCHES)
WEATHER
TUES.
Dec. 2
0.00
WED.
TEMPERATURES
Dec. 3
0.00
Thurs., Dec. 11 Fri., Dec. 12 Sat., Dec. 13 Sun., Dec. 14 Mon., Dec. 15 Tues., Dec. 16 Wed., Dec. 17
THURS. Dec. 4
0.06
FRI.
Dec. 5
0.06
SAT.
HIGH 62 63 64 67 73 72 66
Dec. 6
SUNRISE/SUNSET TIMES
SUN.
Thurs., Dec. 11 Fri., Dec. 12 Sat., Dec. 13 Sun., Dec. 14 Mon., Dec. 15 Tues., Dec. 16 Wed., Dec. 17
0.03
Dec. 7
0.08
MON.
Dec. 8
0.08
DEC.
TO DATE 0.31
SUNRISE 7:08 a.m. 7:08 a.m. 7:09 a.m. 7:10 a.m. 7:10 a.m. 7:11 a.m. 7:12 a.m.
FRI.
SAT.
SUNSET 5:30 p.m. 5:30 p.m. 5:31 p.m. 5:31 p.m. 5:31 p.m. 5:32 p.m. 5:32 p.m.
SUN.
LOW 42 40 40 43 51 51 48
MOON PHASES
Dec. 6
Dec. 14
(2013: .01) Dec. 21
YEAR
TO DATE
41.96 (2013: 49.82)
7B
HIGH
HIGH
HIGH
LOW
LOW
LOW
63
64
40
40
67
Dec. 28
I WO
Paulette Billson, of Ocoee, sent us this beautiful photo of Stark Lake in the early morning. The West Orange Times & Observer is hosting the weekly contest, and winners will have their photograph featured and receive a $20 prize. To enter, email your photo, along with your name and city and a caption, to aqrhode@wotimes.com; put “I Love West Orange” in the subject line. Winners can pick up their prize at the Times office.
43
A PC PUZZLE
By Kenneth Holt | Edited by Timothy E. Parker ACROSS 1 Analyze grammatically 6 Pen fillers 10 Bring down 15 “Acid” 18 Homeric epic 19 Lake near Reno 21 Warms up 22 Expert fighter pilot 23 Spanish cellist/conductor 25 Desert green spot 26 Without delay 27 Formerly, formerly 28 Lively spirit 29 Mall attraction 31 Make invalid 33 Skirt length 35 British noble 36 Fixed payment 37 Like careful language 43 Basketball stadium 44 A flat, thick piece 45 Feared fairy-tale females 49 Becomes tangled 51 Old phone feature 53 ___ gin fizz 54 Antlered beast 55 Broke a fast 56 Ache for 58 Great way to listen 62 Flu fighters 64 Bulldog booster 65 Ghost’s word 66 Post-lather step 67 They have subsidiaries 74 Colgate competitor 77 It may have a general assembly? 78 Short pencil 79 Play divisions 83 Mnemonic device 87 Jeans fabric 89 Ump’s call
90 91 92 94 96 99 101 102 107 110 111 112 113 114 116 120 121 123 126 127 128 129 130 131 132 133
Rink surface Bay in the stable Enlarge, as a hole African hunting expedition Particularly suitable for children Sandpaper particles Play a set with the band Where motorists should be extra careful Greek goddess of the moon Clock pointer Barely gets by Foundation garment of yore It’s on the game clock Get high Drive Old American competitor Lute’s cousin Mule, at times Uneven? Airs for December Biker’s path Black, in Barcelona “Comin’ Thro’ the ___” Make a statute Apple source Washington’s successor
DOWN 1 Snowman prop 2 Apple spray 3 Barbecue entree 4 Place of hard labor 5 Tokyo, formerly 6 Slanted printing 7 Cape Canaveral grp. 8 Genghis ___ 9 Costa del ___ 10 Program of 7-Down 11 Hillside near a loch 12 Loser to DDE, twice
SUDOKU PACIFIC Complete the grid so that every row, column and 3x3 box contains every digit from 1 to 9 inclusively.
13 14 15 16 17 20 24 30 32 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 46 47 48 50 52 53 57 59 60 61 63 68 69 70 71 72 73 74 75 76 80
Web-making part of a spider Fragrance “Pineapple Island” “Dilbert” creator Adams “Malcolm in the Middle” brother English Lit assignment Basic monetary unit of Ghana Compass line Courage, so to speak Europe’s “boot” Temporary home for Napoleon Vacuum-tube gas Legal aides Address an audience Crowbar or jimmy Buzz the astronaut Form of “lie” Acting part “As ___ on TV!” Architectural annexes Hebrides terrier Crystal-ball gazer One at work “Go no further!” Brown brew A Smothers brother Madden Credit card name Basilica area Money dispenser Kind of bed Auto Pepless Convent resident Heron cousin Adam’s firstborn Puerto ___ First garden Raccoon relative
© 2013 Universal Uclick
81 82 84 85 86 87 88 93 95 97
City of a famous shroud Bite like a bee Extensive learning Burrowing rodents Mare meal Sock-mender’s oath? En ___ (together) Archaic exclamation Cracked Chimps and orangutans
98 100 103 104 105 106 107 108 109 113
Land around a mansion Excessive sweetness Need for water Zodiac animal Hapless Stew vegetable Cast member Behaving like a ruffian Barter After-bath powder
114 “The Lion King” character 115 “The Grapes of Wrath” extra 117 Gulf of ___ (arm of the Baltic) 118 Bacterium 119 Winged god of love 122 Common iced drink 124 “Wherefore __ thou ...” 125 “Messenger” compound
C RY P T O G R A M S 1 . W D F L J I N T T D AT J I R M I X I B N F X I B H X N FA N Q F I W D D R F I M , N RNFZNPLNT NTR N ZNFPIMI KNR QIIT MPDFIT QAP PKIH KNR TD FINRM. 2 . L C K H A C K B T D B P D P J A K T B C K M A X D N C Z J JA P N K H A J A X R X B P J X H A C K B D T J J , O X JA X R A C K O L K M K V X Z H V X R R X H AT H V K H A J .
8B
WEST ORANGE TIMES
WOTimes.com
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014
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WEST ORANGE TIMES
WOTimes.com
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014
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620 APARTMENT & DUPLEXES
VEHICLES
Church Craft Sale. 330 E Plant St. Saturday, 8am-12pm. Handmade gifts and baby items. 12/11sr Estate Sale: 2088 Dunsford Dr, Pine Hills. Dec 13, 7am-3pm. Lots of great stuff! 12/11jm Huge Yard Sale Fri & Sat. Handmade quilts, Avon Jewelry, Avon, Clothes, Misc. 639 Winter St, Winter Garden. 12/11da Large Garage Sale Thurs & Fri, Dec 11 & 12. 400 FLorida Ave, Winter Garden. 12/11bc
NOW PURCHASING
ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE/DISPATCH CLERK needed for HVAC Company in west Orlando. Part-time with reliable transportation. Efficient with Microsoft word and excel. Fax resume to 407-292-9888 or email to susanactionair@aol.com 12/11sm
BATTERIES
We are a Homeowners Association in Winter Garden searching for a maintenance/irrigation worker. The position is part-time between 20-25 hours per week. The starting pay is $10.00 and there are no benefits. Irrigation experience is required. English is also required. Anyone interested, please call the office at 407-656-5106 to arrange for an interview appointment. 12/18wt Foodgrade tanker company. Full time. Mileage, Detention & Drop Pay Full Benefits. 401(k) Sign on Bonus. Incentive Program. Regular runs to the Midwest. Out 2 Weeks. CDL-A OtteryTransportation.com 800-5696816 Dan ext. 224 12/11fcan
WINTER GARDEN - 1BR $695, 2BR $745, 3BR $935 on Lake Apopka. Water/Sewer included. 407-656-7162. 9/25tfn
Boy Scout Sale! 12788 Gillard Rd Winter Garden, Friday and Saturday 8 -3. All for a great cause! Lots of CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS and TOYS: knick knacks, Christmas tree and stands, ornaments, boxed cards, tissue paper, ribbon, baskets, Salt & Pepper sets, santa hats and stockings, new boxed toys, stuffed plush toys and so much more! CLOTHES and SHOES: lots of winter wear and also other seasons. Men, Women, and Children. Matching microfiber Couch and Loveseat, tables, household decor and much, much more. Everything MUST GO! Don't Miss It! Off Beulah Rd, one block south of Beulah Baptist Church 12/11ks
AIRLINE CAREERS Start Here - Get FAA certified with hands on training in Aviation Maintenance. Financial aid for qualified students. Job placement assistance. Call AIM 866-3145838 fcan12/11
Johnson's Wrecker Service Inc., is hiring fulltime night wrecker drivers and day transport drivers. Call for details 407-293-2540. 1/1jw
SCRAP
13178 W. Colonial Dr
407-656-3495
Winter Garden
S.E. Dollen, LLC.
Winter Garden longest established electrical contractor serving Central FL since 1983. All Service Techs are LICENSED Journeymen and Master Electricians. For professional results and competitive rates
call 407-656-5818
EC 13001719
The City of Winter Garden is currently seeking applicants for various positions Job descriptions and applications are available online.
www.wintergarden-fl.gov Phone: Fax:
407-656-4111
407-877-2795
The City of Winter Garden is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
This week’s Crossword answers
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
611 West. Ave., Ocoee Pastor Jeff Pritchard (407) 656-2351 Email: starkelakebaptist@gmail.com
CATHOLIC RESURRECTION CATHOLIC CHURCH 1211 Winter Garden-Vineland Rd. Winter Garden. 407-656-3113
CHRISTIAN WEST ORANGE CHURCH OF CHRIST 1450 Daniels Road Winter Garden 407-656-2770 www.cocwo.com
2014
9B
CHURCH OF GOD
To advertise in the Church Directory plase call 407-656-2121 or email rblankenship@wotimes.com 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, 6:30pm. 407876-3480 www.ascension-orlando.org
METHODIST FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
125 N. Lakeview Ave Winter Garden Service Times: 9:00 AM & 11:15 AM www.fumcwg.org 407-656-1135
PRESBYTERIAN PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF THE LAKES, USA
Conroy-Windermere Rd. @ Lincoln Ave. Sunday School 9:00AM, Worship 10:30 407-291-2886 Worship on Wed. 7:00 - 7:30 PM “Come hear the Gospel” Rev. Ferdinand Brits www.pcol.org
UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST
WINDERMERE UNION CHURCH 10710 Park Ridge-Gotha Rd. Windermere, FL 34786 407-876-2112 Worship times: 9:00am Adult Sunday School 10:00am Worship www.windermereunion.org
10B
WEST ORANGE TIMES
WOTimes.com
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014
In a climate-controlled incubator, Jack held his mother’s finger. While Jack’s mother held on to hope. Six years ago, Jack was born at 1 lb. 1 oz. with just a 10% chance to live. That’s because when his mother’s blood pressure shot up to dangerous levels at the end of her second trimester, doctors were forced to deliver him by Caesarean section. But thanks to the expert care Jack and his mom received at Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies, he defied the odds. Jack and his mom are just two of the thousands of women, children and babies that we have helped over the past 25 years. To see more stories like Jack’s, visit 25yearsofcaring.com/Jack
25 YEARS. THOUSANDS OF STORIES.
25yearsofcaring.com