12.21.17 West Orange Times & Observer by Orange Observer

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

Observer Celebrating more than 110 years in West Orange

MERRY

CHRISTMAS

YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD. VOLUME 84, NO. 51

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2017

Sir Benji’s Donuts sets up shop Winter Garden’s newest bakery opened in Plant Street Market. SEE 8.

Bright beginning

YOUR TOWN IT’S A BOY!

Bradley and Heather Jackson, of Ocoee, are the parents of a baby boy, Nolan James Jackson, born Oct. 28, 2017, at South Lake Hospital. He weighed 8 pounds, 6 ounces, and measured 20 inches in length. He joins three brothers, Cody, Aaron and Evin. His grandparents are Jerry and Meribeth Jackson and Donald and Rebecca Hallahan.

OCOEE STARTS WASTE CAMPAIGN

Kids of all ages loved lighting their own candles at the first Hanukkah ceremony held in downtown Winter Garden.

Danielle Hendrix

“Every person has a spark, a light, inside. When you witness the lighting of the menorah — which represents illuminating the darkness and making the world a better place — it also represents spirit.”

STORY AND PHOTOS ON PAGE 4 ICE, ICE BABY!

The Ocoee Police Department is partnering with Waste Connections of Florida to keep citizens’s valuables protected. Operation Safe Disposal runs through Jan. 2, 2018, and instead of placing cardboard boxes for gifts such as flat-screen TVs, video game consoles, computers and jewelry by the curb, residents can drop them off at recycling bins. Drop-off locations are on Brushy Creek Court, south of the Ocoee Police Department Headquarters, and Vignetti Park, 1901 Adair St. The police suggest keeping a record of valuable gifts by documenting the make, model, serial number and detailed description.

NIGHT LIGHTS

County hosts final community meeting on Reams Road project Orange County presented its proposed roadway improvements for Reams Road from Summerlake Park Boulevard to Taborfield Avenue. GABBY BAQUERO NEWS EDITOR

Local chefs turn in solid performances at Rosen Plaza’s second annual Iced Out. SEE PAGE 9.

Officials from the Orange County Transportation Planning Division laid out details for a roadway-widening project planned for the highly congested Reams Road during a community meeting Dec. 13.

Presently, between 14,100 to 16,800 vehicles travel the roadway on a daily basis, according to the county’s traffic analysis. By 2045, the county estimates those numbers to rise between 26,700 and 29,900 vehicles daily. Blanche Hardy, the project SEE COUNTY PAGE 4

Holiday cheer rolls at golf cart parade. SEE PAGE 14.

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

YOUR CALENDAR

THURSDAY, DEC. 21

RESEARCHING FAMILY HISTORY ONLINE 11 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 21, at the West Oaks Library, 1821 E. Silver Star Road, Ocoee. Learn how to best utilize the internet for your family history research. Discover what is and what isn’t online. Become familiar with the leading genealogy websites as well as some lesser-known gems and how to search and locate websites that relate to your family history research. (407) 835-7323.

FRIDAY, DEC. 22

3D DESIGN FOR PRINTING: CUSTOM HOLIDAY ORNAMENTS 2 p.m. Friday, Dec. 22, at the Winter Garden Library, 805 E. Plant St. Design one-of-a-kind holiday ornaments using a simple, free 3D software. Learn the basics of 3D design for printing and get a firsthand view of a 3D printer in

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2017

action. Recommended audience: Adult. Seating is limited. Registration recommended at (407) 835-7323. MOVIE UNDER THE STARS 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 22, at Windermere Town Hall, 520 Main St. Grab a blanket or lawn chair and enjoy the Christmas comedy “Elf.” Free. (407) 876-2563. MUSIC ON THE PLAZA 7 to 9 p.m. Friday, Dec. 22, at the Plant Street gazebo in downtown Winter Garden. This week’s performer is Safia Hudson. (407) 656-4111.

SATURDAY, DEC. 23

WINDERMERE BOAT PARADE Sunset Saturday, Dec. 23, starting at Bird Island and traveling Lake Butler to Wauseon Bay. Residents are invited to deck out their boats in holiday cheer for the annual parade. Meet at the north side of Bird Island to prepare. (407) 876-2563.

TUESDAY, DEC. 26

IT DOESN’T SNOW IN FLORIDA 5 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 26, at the West Oaks Library, 1821 E. Silver Star Road, Ocoee. It might not snow in Florida, but that doesn’t mean we can’t make our own winter fun. Join in to discover, learn and play with Florida’s own version of the mysterious white frozen stuff from up north. Ages 6 to 12. (407) 835-7323. PEPPERMINT PALS 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 26, at the Winter Garden Library, 805 E. Plant St. Enjoy stories, crafts and activities inspired by sweet peppermint treats. Ages 2 to 4. (407) 835-7323.

FRIDAY, DEC. 29

MUSIC ON THE PLAZA 7 to 9 p.m. Friday, Dec. 29, at the Plant Street gazebo in downtown Winter Garden. This week’s performer is the Good Times Jazz Band. (407) 656-4111.

SATURDAY, DEC. 30

HAPPY NOON YEAR 2:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 30, at the Winter Garden Library, 805 E. Plant St. Make some noise and ring in the noon year with little ones. Enjoy fun and games with an exciting countdown. Ages 3 to 8. (407) 8357323.

OUR TOUGHNESS IS YOUR STRENGTH.

SUNDAY, DEC. 31

NEW YEAR’S EVE 3 p.m. to 3 a.m. Sunday, Dec. 31, at Pilars Martini Bar, 146 W. Plant St. No. 120, Winter Garden. J Street Jazz Combo & Jam, Itaso Satrustegui & Pablo Arencibia and a late-night disc jockey. (407) 369-8900.

MONDAY, JAN. 1

MID-FLORIDA MILERS WALKING CLUB Register any time between 9 and 9:45 a.m. and plan to finish by 12:45 p.m. Meet at Miller’s Ale House-Orlando Kirkman, 5573 S. Kirkman Road, Orlando to walk the 5K or 10K. The club promotes recreational walking for fun, fitness and friendship. After the walk, enjoy lunch at the Ale House. Open to the public. Walk is free. Pre-register for the lunch. Email mlanpher@ cfl.rr.com or visit midfloridamilers.org.

SATURDAY, JAN. 13

SANDY SHUGART IN CONCERT 8 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 13, at Garden Theatre, 160 W. Plant St., Winter Garden. Sandy Shugart, the multi-talented president of Valencia College, returns with his tight-knit group of musicians to create a warm blend of folk-influenced, acoustic coffeehouse-style sounds. Tickets are $25 ($15 with Valencia College ID) and can be purchased by

calling the theater box office at (407) 877-4736 or online at gardentheatre.org.

SATURDAY, JAN. 27

CORNERTONE HOSPICE TRAINING 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 27, at Cornerstone Hospice and Palliative Care, 5655 Orange Ave., Orlando. Volunteers can offer support, companionship and practical, compassionate help to patients and their caregivers. Training is free, and lunch and refreshments will be provided, but interested volunteers must pre-register. Kayla Lopes, (407) 514-8205 or klopes@cshospice.org.

SUNDAY, JAN. 28

JCCF CHARITY GOLF CART POKER RUN Register between 12:30 and 1:30 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 28, at Newton Park, 31 W. Garden Ave., Winter Garden. Attendees will visit downtown Winter Garden merchants to receive their playing cards. Drawings for raffles and awarding of prizes will be from 4 to 5 p.m. at the downtown Winter Garden pavilion, 104 S. Lakeview Ave. The event benefits the Jimmy Crabtree Cancer Fund and its mission to assist local residents with cancer. jccancerfund@aol.com.

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2017

‘We are home’

Mosaic Church celebrated its first Sunday in its new Winter Garden location Dec. 10.

AMY QUESINBERRY COMMUNITY EDITOR

t takes someone with a grand vision to turn a former flea market space and appliance store into a church — especially if the storefront’s interior has a leaking roof and vegetation growing from the curling floor tiles. But that is precisely what Renaut van der Riet and his team at Mosaic Church have done. The congregation of the 14-year-old church celebrated its first Sunday in the new space Dec. 10, and it was quite the “welcome home” affair. In the first two services, more than 3,000 people — including about 900 children elementary-school age and younger — walked through the doors of the new Mosaic Church, located in the Winter Garden Regional Shopping Center on West Colonial Drive. “It was awesome, it was energetic, it was full of life,” van der Riet said of the first Sunday. “Everyone was like, ‘We are home.’”

GREATER SPACE

Photos by Amy Quesinberry

Pastor Renaut van der Riet invites the community to learn more about Mosaic Church, which just moved into a new facility in Winter Garden.

WHERE IS MOSAIC? 14175 W. Colonial Drive, Winter Garden PHONE: (407) 654-8220 WEBSITE: thisismosaic.org SERVICES: 7:02 and 8:32 p.m. Thursday and 9:02 and 11:17 a.m. Sunday at the new location and 8:02 p.m. Sunday at Holiday Inn, 1805 Hotel Plaza Blvd., Lake Buena Vista. Mosaic Latino meets at 7:02 p.m. Thursday at the new space in Winter Garden.

Courtesy photo

Seven years worth of mold had been growing on the storefront floor.

comes from the technology that we control, so we can make the sanctuary feel any way we want,” he said. “On Sunday, that space is anything but neutral. It’s really fun.”

Come find a safe haven for your soul at

Haven of Grace Bible Church Temporarily meeting at: The Stone Crest Meeting House in the Foxcrest Subdivision 13520 Foxcrest Blvd. Winter Garden, FL 34787 Sundays at 9:30 and 10:30 am HavenOfGraceBibleChurch.com 407-952-0510

THE TRANSFORMATION

“When we walked in here the first time, we weren’t allowed to come in without a face mask,” van der Riet said. “That’s how bad this

place was.” The 78,000-square-foot space sat empty for seven years. The roof leaked rainwater throughout the building, and mold and plant life actually were growing out of the floor tiles. Prior tenants included Appliance Direct, Value Mart and Zayres. Church leaders saw past the dank, moldy mess and bought the space. Currently, 50,000 square feet is in use, the pastor said, with the remaining 28,000 square feet to be used for future expansion. Mosaic was operating in cramped quarters in Oakland. The church teams were holding seven services to accommodate its growing congregation. Fire codes limited the number of children who could be in the nursery. Knees touched pew backs in the sanctuary. “Now we have enough space to create conversation and community,” van der Riet said. “At the other place, it was all logistics. We had to move people through because of logistics. Here we have space and couches and people can relax and feel like they’re home.” The pastoral team is excited about its first Christmas Eve service in the new location. Four services will be offered: 3:02, 4:32, 6:02 and 11:02 p.m. The expanded space gives church leaders a chance to showcase the meaning of Christmas. “What I love most about this building is that we surprise and delight people,” van der Riet said. “We want people to walk in and be surprised and delighted.”

Our Mission is to: Serve the Lord and other saints Transform into the image of Christ Edify one another in love Evangelize with the Gospel of Grace Learn and apply God’s Word Together, through God’s strength, we can become spiritually strong as STEEL. Come grow with us!

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The new church location is designed with open space in mind but with inviting features that don’t overwhelm guests. “When you walk in … everything in front of you shouts ‘Relax,’” van der Riet said. “You can see where the kids check in, you can see the sanctuary, you can see the coffee bar. … We wanted it to be easy and comfortable.” There is an industrial feel to the space, with its concrete floors and neutral tones. A giant concrete “tree” welcomes folks, as do seating areas with sofas, small hightop tables and a coffee bar. Greenery descends from ceilings and light fixtures to remind people of God’s presentation of seed and vegetation and how they grow and spread. And there are images of ripples throughout the church campus, further reminding people to change the world one small ripple at a time. To the left is MIX, a space for fifth- and sixth-graders that also doubles as a smaller sanctuary for the Latino service on Thursdays. To the right is Mosaic Kids, for children from birth through fourth grade. The Kid City space resembles downtown Winter Garden, with a mural of outlined Plant Street buildings and bicycle wheels representing the West Orange Trail. Children enter through what looks like the downtown clock tower. Rooms segregate the different age groups. In the center is the sanctuary, purposely neutral in color, van der Riet said. “All of its theming and vibrance

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2017

WEST ORANGE TIMES &

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

Rabbi Yosef Konikov greeted friend Adam Rashkind at the ceremony.

Cyndi Gustafson, advertising@Orange Observer.com

Festival of lights

Creative Services Tony Trotti, ttrotti@OrangeObserver.com Customer Service Representatives Allison Brunelle, abrunelle@OrangeObserver.com Katie Rehm, krehm@orangeobserver.com

A menorah and two stars are on display for the first time this year in downtown Winter Garden, and the Winter Garden Hebrew School held a ceremony to light them. DANIELLE HENDRIX BLACK TIE EDITOR

About 60 people gathered in downtown Winter Garden on Tuesday, Dec. 12, to ceremonially light a menorah in honor of the first night of Hanukkah. The city set up two stars and a menorah in front of the police department for the first time, and Winter Garden Hebrew School and Chabad of South Orlando teamed up to host an official menorah-lighting ceremony there. “This year we started a Hebrew school in Winter Garden for the families that are here, and we were discussing that maybe we should do something for Hanukkah for them,” said Rabbi Yosef Konikov. “We wanted to do something for the whole community — not just for the Hebrew school, but for everyone. Downtown Winter Garden has a lot of festive symbols, but there’s

never really been a menorah. So we contacted downtown and they were so nice and so willing to get involved and make this happen.” Complete with festive music, glowing menorah necklaces, candles and latkes, attendees celebrated the first night of Hanukkah and shared the cheer with passersby downtown. But it’s more than a celebration of a holiday, Konikov said. Hanukkah and the lighting of the menorah come with a message of light. “Every person has a spark, a light, inside,” Konikov said. “When you witness the lighting of the menorah — which represents illuminating the darkness and making the world a better place — it also represents spirit. The spirit inside of people also wakes up. Every event we do, it’s like this adrenaline pops up, people get very excited. The families are very happy, and it’s exciting. For the first time, it’s a great turnout.”

Reese Cravens waited patiently in her mother’s arms for the ceremony to begin.

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Nora Lasser showed off her blue menorah necklace.

manager, briefly went over the data the division collected during the study, including crash statistics. According to Hardy, 114 vehicle crashes have occurred between 2014 and 2017 within the project’s parameters. Of those, 78 took place at the intersection of Floridian Place and Center Drive, and 15 at Newmarket Drive and Bay Court. The road also is failing west of Floridian Place, she said. To address the failing sections and congestion, the department suggested possible alternative solutions which were presented during the first community meeting held Thursday, Oct. 5. At that meeting, the dominant concerns expressed related to bicycle and pedestrian facilities, median

openings, drainage and wildlife fatalities. In response to those concerns and a survey of the preferred alternative solution, the county’s transportation officials decided to move forward with the Centered/ Hybrid Alignment Alternative design, which calls for a five-foot continuous sidewalk on the south side of the roadway and a 14-foot multi-use trail on the north side with two travel lanes measuring 22 feet in total on both sides of the 19.5-foot median. With the Centered/Hybrid Alignment, no residential or business relocations will be required to acquire the needed rights-of-way to widen the road to four lanes and add pedestrian and bike-friendly trails. Currently, the sidewalks along the roadway are intermit-

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

Keegan Lasser hitched a ride on dad Brett’s shoulders.

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County reveals Reams improvements CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

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

tent and the trail exists in short segments. In addition, roadway and drainage improvements will reduce the risk of flooding witnessed during Hurricane Irma in several locations and the potential for wildlife fatalities, Hardy said. The county has proposed a potential wildlife crossing just east of Greenbank Boulevard, which will have a wet crossing for marine animals and a dry crossing for land animals. But one of the biggest changes is the proposed addition of the realignment of Center Drive to create a full signalized intersection with pedestrian crossings at the 7-Eleven driveway. This signal, she said, is expected to improve safety and visibility at the intersection, which was requested by residents who had concerns

regarding poor visibility and people turning the wrong way to make left-hand turns on Center Drive. This meeting was the final community meeting for the project’s study before the proposal is sent to the county’s Local Planning Agency committee and Orange County Board of County Commissioners for review. The Board of County Commissioners Work Session will be held in February, with a public hearing anticipated to take place in March. If approved, construction will begin in 2021 and is expected to take up to two years. Anyone seeking more information may visit Reamsroadstudy. com, and anyone with questions may contact Blanche Hardy at (407) 836-0257 or email Blanche. Hardy@ocfl.net.

The West Orange Times & Observer (USPS 687-120) is published weekly for $40 per year ($50 outside of Orange County) by the Observer Media Group, 720 S. Dillard St., Winter Garden, Florida 34787. Periodical postage paid at Winter Garden, Florida. POSTMASTER send address changes to the West Orange Times & Observer, 720 S. Dillard St., Winter Garden, Florida 34787.

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2017

Tyler Cravens: Onward and upward Tyler Cravens, owner of Thai Blossom Restaurant, died Dec. 9, after a long battle with cancer. STAFF WRITER

Onward and upward was Tyler Cravens’ life mantra. It defined every decision he made. “He always ended every message, every email with, ‘Onward and upward,’ and that’s how he lived,” said Ali Flores, Cravens’ best friend. “That’s what drove him. He believed we should be moving onward and upward. That’s something he put in me forever.” And once Cravens set his sight on a goal, nothing would stop him from reaching it. “Tyler was probably the hardest-working person I’ve ever met,” Flores said. “If there was anything Tyler wanted, he would get it. He worked endlessly until he achieved it. That was something I really admired about him.” Cravens died Saturday, Dec. 9, after a long battle with cancer. He was known in the community as an actor — most recently, he had a role on the Netflix show “Bloodline” — and the co-owner of Thai Blossom Restaurant in downtown Winter Garden. “He performed all over,” Flores said. “The acting community here in Orlando is small. It’s family. So when the word came out that he passed, people were coming out

WINTER GARDEN

of the woodwork. The outcry has been enormous. The support, the love, the sadness, the shock. He was a fixture of the acting community in Orlando.” As a young man, Cravens joined the U.S. Army and spent six years serving in the military, including a deployment to the Gulf War in 1991. It was his love of acting that eventually resulted in his leaving the military to pursue his dream. “He honed his craft every day,” Flores said. After moving to California, Cravens met Patcharee Suksamran, and the two married Dec. 22, 2004. “Those two are soulmates,” said Stasha Boyd, a friend of Cravens. “Their life together was truly like an open love letter to each other. If you spent any time around these two people, it’s a love story. Everything he did was for her.” The couple moved back to Central Florida and opened Thai Blossom Restaurant in downtown Winter Garden. Boyd still remembers the day she ran into the couple while they were hunting for a restaurant location. “My husband and I were walking the streets of Winter Garden and saw Tyler,” she said. “It was the day that the Stromboli’s sign went up that it was closed. Tyler was like, ‘Yeah, I’m opening a Thai restaurant.’ I think he called that day to get that location. It was right when Winter Garden was starting

Left: Tyler Cravens and his wife, Patcharee Suksamran, married Dec. 22, 2004. Below: Tyler Cravens was active in the local acting scene.

Courtesy photos

Friends say Tyler Cravens had a huge laugh and great sense of humor.

to take off, and then Thai Blossom started winning award after award after award.” Although Cravens’ time was spent pursuing acting or managing the restaurant, he always had time to laugh. “Tyler and I were able to be silly together a lot,” Flores said. “We both complemented each other’s sense of humor. He had a very

loud laugh, and I’ve got a very loud laugh. They just coincided, and it was something we enjoyed doing — making each other laugh. That’s what I’m going to miss the most.” “He was dedicated, hard working, confident, driven, warm, wonderful, funny, (with a) dry sense of humor,” Boyd said. “It’s just a real loss.”

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BRITTANY GAINES

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

COPS CORNER

WINTER GARDEN NOV. 21

3300 block of Daniels Road. At 2:01 p.m., an officer was dispatched to a cellphone store after the employees reported they had one of two suspects in their custody who attempted to steal iPhones. According to the store’s employees, two men entered the store, walked to the display case, grabbed cellphones and ran. One employee ran after them and tackled the suspect to the ground, however, the second suspect jumped into a red Chevy Impala and drove away. In the attempted theft, the display case was destroyed, which is estimated to cost $1,000 to fix, and an iPhone 8 was damaged, worth $749. OCOEE DEC. 8

20 Cedar Key Court. At about 4 p.m., an officer responded to a residence in reference to a burglary. The homeowner informed the officer his wife called him at 5 p.m. to tell him that someone entered their home and stole a large flatscreen TV he purchased for $140. A neighbor identified the woman who was seen walking away from the home in question with a TV in her possession. According to the neighbor, the woman left in a white van. Police visited the address listed for the woman suspected of stealing the TV and found her hiding under a table. The woman admitted to stealing the TV and selling it for narcotics. She later called the man to whom she sold the TV, allowing police to recover the TV and return it to the owner.

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2017

Oakland students mobilize to help kids from Puerto Rico Oakland Avenue Charter students spearheaded a fundraising drive as their community outreach project. BRITTANY GAINES STAFF WRITER

Every year, students at Oakland Avenue Charter School are challenged to come up with a community outreach project. So this year, when it came time for the fourth-grade class to choose its project, the students knew exactly what to do. “What we try to do is have our kids be thoughtful about what project they want to do,” said fourth-grade teacher Amy Kosky. “The children have really been affected by the hurricanes this year, so they asked what they can do to help.” The inspiration for the project was children from Puerto Rico who are now living in the Greater Orlando area. When the fourth-graders learned that these children had no school supplies, they were concerned. “They were worried about how these kids are going to feel when they show up to school without a backpack,” Kosky said. To help these children, the fourth-grade classes teamed up to create several fundraisers to help raise money for school supplies. “We started brainstorming with our kids on how we can help, and they decided they want to sell candy grams,” Kosky said. During the first week of

Courtesy photo

Fourth-grade students from Amy Kosky and Ana Meyers’ class show off the donated items they collected for Puerto Rican students affected by Hurricane Maria.

December, students sold candycane grams, which raised more than $600 for their cause. And on Wednesday, Dec. 13, they hosted a silent auction where parents could bid on various gift baskets. All the money raised was given to the Education Foundation of Osceola County. In addition to raising money for the organization, students collected nonperishable goods for the nonprofit. “It’s all been very exciting, and the children are very inter-

ested in it,” Kosky said. “They’re really excited to help.” Even Principal Pamela Dwyer said she was impressed with the project. “It’s really important and great for the kids,” she said. “It’s great when the kids are a part of the design and implementation of it.” In addition to the project, the teachers have implemented various lessons about Puerto Rico to give the students a better understanding of the culture there.

“I had my students write essays to the kids (from Puerto Rico) about things they should do when when they move here,” Kosky said. Ultimately, Kosky said she was impressed with how the students took on the project because they felt passionate about helping others. “All of us at OACS are extremely proud that our students took it upon themselves to ‘help other kids feel like they belong,’ as they put it,” Kosky said.

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Ocoee resident opens little free library

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2017

In Memory of

Kim Brown Wilson 1/14/53 - 12/22/97

BRITTANY GAINES STAFF WRITER

Sending hugs to Heaven, Carrie, Wally and Dad

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20 years have come and gone, yet we still think of you each and every day. We love you forever, Mom.

Brittany Gaines

Barbara Bass installed a free little library in front of her home in October.

BARBARA BASS’ LITTLE FREE LIBRARY 1727 Glenhaven Circle, Ocoee WEBSITE: littlefreelibrary.org

Mass Times

books that have been taken so far haven’t come back, with one exception. Everyone who has taken a book has brought back two or three others.” Even though the growing stash of books is slowly taking over her garage, Bass said the library is a wonderfully fun hobby. “I absolutely love doing it,” she said. “It gives me such joy. It’s just the most fun thing I could have ever thought of doing. I’ve gotten to meet a lot of people who I wouldn’t have met otherwise.”

Christmas Eve: • 4:00PM ��in Church with Children’s Choir and Pageant • 4:00PM ��in Gleason Hall with Pageant • 6:30pm��English • 7:30PM ��Portuguese in Gleason Hall • 8:00pm��Spanish • 11:00pm��English Christmas Day: • 10:00am ��English • 12:00pm��Spanish • 7:30pm��Portuguese

1211 Winter Garden Vineland Rd. Winter Garden, Florida 34787 407-656-3113 www.ResurrectionWG.org

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“I have quite a stash,” she said. “You would not believe all the books I have.” For Bass, books always have been invaluable. As a child, she was inspired to work in the medical industry thanks to a book she read. “Being able to read takes you to places you’d never go otherwise,” she said. It’s that idea that she hopes to give to others through her little library. “It’s about sharing and caring to me,” Bass said. “That’s what it’s all about.” Anyone borrowing a book from the library can either bring the same book back or replace it with a new one, Bass said. “The tag line is, ‘Take a book, leave a book,’” Bass said. “All the

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Every few days, Barbara Bass fills her little wagon with books and wheels it out to the little library that sits on her front lawn. She installed the small, weather-proof bookcase two months ago, and it’s quickly become a popular stop in the neighborhood of Silver Glen in Ocoee. “It’s been overwhelmingly positive,” Bass said. “People like the idea of being able to stop, look through the books and get to meet your neighbors. It’s a really nice community thing.” Bass got the idea for the library while visiting family in Wisconsin. “I saw these little houses all up in Madison,” Bass said. “They’re everywhere. I asked my sister about it, and she said they were little free libraries. I thought, ‘Wow. That’s really cool. I’d like to do that.’” She began researching the process of creating a little library and decided to enlist her husband’s help in building the structure. By the beginning of October, the library had been registered online and filled with books. “All the books in the library have been donated,” Bass said. “There are children’s books. There are self-help books, diet books, mystery books — whatever people might be interested in.” As word about her curbside library spread, more people dropped off books to be added. Now, Bass has several boxes of books tucked away in her garage.

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2017

Pat Sharr Realty 407-656-7947

MultiMillion Dollar Producer patsharr@aol.com

www.patsharr.com

BUYING A HOME? SELLING YOUR HOME?

CALL US TODAY!

Sales Associate

407-558-0461

michael.lowery12@gmail.com

WE DON’T CHARGE TRANSACTION FEES!

MO SE TIV LL ATE ER D !

During this time of year, my thoughts turn to those that make my business possible. A Sincere “Thank You” for trusting me with your real estate needs. May Joy, Peace and Prosperity be Yours throughout the New Year...

MICHAEL LOWERY

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PAT SHARR

Broker/Owner

407-948-1326

HOLIDAY GOODIE!!!

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

JUS

YOU’LL BELIEVE IN SANTA CLAUS!!!

DO YOUR CHRISTMAS SHOPPING HERE!!!

***4.97 ACRES*** 2 BDRM.,2 BA. LOCATED IN WINTER GARDEN!!! **NO HOA**Take a look at this 2 story home!!! First level has bedroom/ bath, the 2nd level is as nice as can be!!! Living room/great room, dining area, kitchen with all appliances,bedroom, bath and laundry room! Wood flooring except the bedroom has carpet, sliding glass door with balcony. Panoramic views of Winter Garden, Clermont and Disney fireworks from the balcony off of the living area. You have your own private driveway and only minutes away from shopping and major highways! Plus an Orange Grove that the Seller’s no longer work, but could have income. Asking only $349,000

LE G! SA DIN N PE

JUST LISTED!!!

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

PE SA ND LE IN G

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Take a look at this CUSTOM BUILT 2 STORY BRICK COLONIAL!!! Located on 7.86 acres, bring your horses, cows, chickens or just enjoy all of the land. Open the door to your future, wood flooring, tile in all wet areas, living room, picture window dining room and custom eat-in kitchen includes all appliances, wood cabinets, granite counters and island. Family room features brick wood burning fireplace for those cozy evenings! All bedrooms are located on the 2nd floor, master bedroom has French doors leading to the private balcony, enjoy the panoramic views!!! Master bedroom is adjoined by master bath, dual sinks, garden jetted tub and separate shower. The other 3 bedrooms are centered around the guest bath and the end bedroom also has a private balcony. Located on the first floor also features 1/2 bath and laundry room. Property is fenced and has gated entrance!!! See this property today, get away from all the traffic and noise to quite country living!!! New roof to be installed!!! Asking Only $ 425,000

SANTA’S LAST STOP!!!

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

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SIR BENJI’S OPENS IN WINTER GARDEN

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The couple behind Sir Benji’s Donuts now is selling its artisanal mini doughnuts in a permanent location at the Plant Street Market. GABBY BAQUERO NEWS EDITOR

Although wedding shopping may not be a usual source of entrepreneurial inspiration, it worked for Jenny and Ben Falcone — the duo behind Sir Benji’s Donuts. While out shopping, the newlyweds, who profess a love for food and cooking, spotted someone with a nifty doughnut machine and eventually purchased one for their personal use. Although the Falcones already had their own start-up called La Petite Pie, known for its palmsized artisanal pies, they eventually switched to doughnuts. “We had always dreamed of owning our own business and this seemed like a good fit,” Jenny Falcone said, recalling their early beginning. “We were doing mini pies out of the Winter Garden Farmers Market before we switched over to donuts, and kind of took the inspiration from the pie fillings and translated that into donuts.” But the flavor possibilities, they realized, were endless. Now, they often find themselves enjoying a drink or dessert and wondering how it would taste in doughnut form. “We’re basically obsessed, and every time we eat something we think how would this be in doughnut form,” Jenny Falcone said. Their curiosity has resulted in some crazy food experiments, particularly during their monthly “doughnut lab sessions,” where they compete against each other to see who can create the best doughnut flavor, she said. The doughnut lab has produced several creations. Among the many flavors are Pumpkin Ale Brulee, Toasted Coconut Rum, Maple Pecan, and Ben Falcone’s personal favorite: the Bourbon Bacon Sea Salt, a doughnut loaded

with bacon, fried in whiskey and topped with sea salt. One of the upcoming flavors they plan to debut soon is termed Churro En Fuego, which is essentially a cinnamon sugar donut with lime and cayenne pepper. “We’re going to be rotating the flavors on a seasonal basis, but there’s so much more to come,” she said. “And we might work with the (Crooked Can) Brewery in the future to make some doughnut and beer pairings, and we’re going to have some other awesome creations coming, like our Doughnut Sundaes and our Honey Lavender Lemon, Pink Fluffy Unicorn, and Churro en Fuego — another fun flavor that we’re going to have coming out. But of course, the Major Glazer and the Churro Doughnut will always be there.” The entrepreneurial couple, who live in Lake Mary and commute to Winter Garden, is more than happy to put its creations to the test at the Winter Garden Farmers Market to receive public feedback, which the two credit with their success, along with hospitality degrees from the University of Central Florida. “We’re definitely enjoying the process of settling into Winter Garden,” Jenny Falcone said. “Winter Garden is such an amazing community, and the Winter Garden Farmers Market is basically what made everything possible for us — that market is like an incubator for small businesses.” The shop opened at the market a little more than a week ago and will be open Thursdays through Sundays. “We were like drooling over Plant Street — for an opportunity to get in,” Ben Falcone said. “It’s such an incredible location and concept. And we thought, ‘We want to be a part of this.’”

CURRENT FLAVORS n Churro Doughnut: A creation that features a special blend of spices, cinnamon and brown sugar. n Major Glazer: Served with homemade traditional glaze, which can have rainbow sprinkles added. n Gingerbread Man: A holiday-themed creation featuring gingerbread glaze that the couple recommends with coffee or eggnog. n Apple Cider: A doughnut with a buttery apple cider glaze seasoned with apple pie moonshine and cinnamon. n The French Quarter: A doughnut inspired by the famous New Orleans Beignet, served with powdered sugar as a topping.

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ALSO INSIDE: Jewish Academy of Orlando: 40th Anniversary Gala. 10 Central Florida Hotel & Lodging Association: Hospitality Gala. 11

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Virgilio Medina, a cook at Rosen Shingle Creek, added more details to his angel.

TIE

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2017

Lazaro Ninu, of Nice Work by Laz, used dry ice in his performance.

Frozen festivities F

Tony Novoa, executive sous chef at the Rosen Centre, worked quickly and nimbly on his snowman.

or an hour, guests sitting poolside at the Rosen Plaza hotel watched as blocks of ice were transformed into angels, snowmen and more — right in front of their eyes. It was all part of the hotel’s second annual Iced Out event on Saturday, Dec. 16. The ice-carving competition featured five participants, including hotel staff, chefs and local carving artisans. Each was given a large block of ice to chisel, saw and whittle into a creation of his choice. From chainsaws and hand chisels to dry ice, water, power tools and more, the experts used a multitude of tools to carve sculptures that would wow guests. In the end, a snowman sculpture by Rosen Centre Executive Sous Chef Tony Novoa won the competition. — DANIELLE HENDRIX

Ricky Lopez, executive sous chef at the Rosen Plaza, used a cone-shaped power tool to chisel the ice more smoothly.

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2017

TIE Greg Finklestein, Miriam and David Varnagy, Joyce and Matt Cox, Nick Ewing, Leigh Norber and Stacey Soll had a great time meeting up.

Jewish Academy of Orlando 2017 40th Anniversary Gala

he Jewish Academy of Orlando celebrated its 40th anniversary at the Dr. Phillips Center on Sunday, Dec. 17. Academy alumni and parents with children currently enrolled gathered together for drinks, dinner and fun. Board member Dr. Jordan Steinberg and his wife, Nathalie, were honored for their work with the academy. Dr. Edward Zissman, the first president for the academy’s board of directors, was given a lifetime achievement award, as well.

Summer Simmons and Head of School Alan Rusonik worked hard to put the event together.

— HARRY SAYER

Gabriel Steinberg and Emily Finklestein were ready for an evening of fun.

Orly and David Diamond were happy to support their children’s school.

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Dr. Edward Zissman was given a lifetime achievement award at the gala.

See more photos at

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WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

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Orange County Sheriff and mayoral candidate Jerry Demings, his wife, U.S. Rep. Val Demings, Adrianna Sekula and Chris McDirmit were a distinguished group at the gala.

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ANDREW LLOYD WEBBER ‘SCHOOL OF ROCK’

Dec. 26 to 31. Imagine — decades after Andrew Lloyd Webber’s elegantly romantic “Phantom of the Opera,” his new musical is based on the scruffy hit movie “School of Rock.” And like the movie, this funny musical follows Dewey Finn, a “wannabe” rock star (posing as a substitute teacher) who turns a class of straight-A students into a mind-blowing rock band. This rebelliously upbeat musical features 14 new songs from Andrew Lloyd Webber, all the original songs from the movie, and musical theater’s first-ever kids rock band playing their instruments live. This year, “School of Rock” also set another record for Lloyd Webber, making him the first composer in 60 years to have four shows on Broadway in a record last set by Rodgers and Hammerstein. Lloyd Webber now has “School of Rock,” “Sunset Boulevard,” “CATS” and “The Phantom of the Opera” on the Great White Way. Fists in the air for his new “feel-good” musical at the Dr. Phillips Center for the performing arts. Call 844-513-2014 or visit drphillipscenter.org.

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8 p.m. Dec. 28. Michael Carbonaro has performed more than 500 comically perplexing and improbable feats of magic on his TV series, “The Carbonaro Effect on truTV.” Now, Carbonaro is taking his show on the road, and you can feel the effect of Michael Carbonaro — Live! If you’ve ever wondered what it feels like to be on the other side of the charmingly devious Michael Carbonaro as he

Our Office Policy: The patient and any other person responsible for payment has the right to refuse to pay; cancel payment or be reimbursed for payment for any other service, examination or treatment which is performed as a result of and within 72 hours of responding to the advertisement for the free, discounted fee or reduced fee service, examination or treatment.

JOSH GARRICK

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

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Courtesy photo

works his magic to make people believe the unbelievable, now is your chance to find out at Hard Rock Live. You will not just “sit back, relax, and enjoy the show” — Michael Carbonaro Live! is packed with audience interaction, hilarious video clips, and a tour-de-force of mind-blowing magic performed live. See for yourself why Michael Carbonaro was named “Magician of the Year” by the Academy of Magical Arts. Call 407-445-ROCK or visit hardrock.com.

Brothers and Universal Orlando, there will be film talent Q&A sessions featuring Stanislav Yanevski (Viktor Krum), James Phelps (Fred Weasley), Oliver Phelps (George Weasley) and more. You’ll also enjoy special panels, demonstrations and new surprises at Universal Orlando. Some events are on a first-come, first-served basis, so you’ll want to sign up for email updates by visiting universalorlando.com to find the “Celebration of Harry Potter Vacation Package.”

‘NATIVE GARDENS’

Jan. 3 through Feb. 4. “Good fences make good neighbors” — not! In this deliciously malevolent new comedy of good intentions and bad manners from the outrageous mind of playwright Karen Zacarías, class, cultures and gardens turn good neighbors into feuding enemies. A high-powered lawyer and his pregnant, doctoral-degree candidate wife realize the “American dream” when they purchase a house next door to the traditional Frank and Virginia (and their impeccably trimmed backyard). A disagreement over a longstanding fence line soon escalates into a war of taste, class, privilege, entitlement and the “race issue.” Suddenly, drawing the line on good taste means no one comes out smelling like a rose. Call (407) 447-1700 or visit orlandoshakes. org.

‘A CELEBRATION OF HARRY POTTER’

Jan. 26, 27 and 28. It’s three days of magic as you join fellow fans exploring “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” including Hogsmeade, Diagon Alley, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, and the Escape from Gringotts. You’ll ride the Hogwarts Express between King’s Cross Station in Universal Studios and Hogsmeade Station in Islands of Adventure as you and your best friends become a part of this magical three-day event. Presented by Warner

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Feb. 14 through March 11. Why am I writing to you about a musical that opens at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts in mid-February? Because the tickets are on sale Now, and even with an extended run, there will be many performances that sell out weeks before the show opens. Twenty years ago, “The Lion King” won six 1998 Tony Awards, including Best Musical, and then went on to earn more than 70 major arts awards in New York and London alone. One of the greatest Broadway musicals of all time, “The Lion King” has been reproduced in 24 global productions in more than 100 cities and has been seen by more than 90 million people. This amazing success exceeds that of any film, Broadway show or other entertainment title in box-office history. The show’s director, Julie Taymor, the first woman to win a Tony Award for direction of a musical, recently has supervised new productions of the show around the world. The Broadway score, a fusion of Western popular music and the rhythms of Africa, features Elton John and Tim Rice’s music from the animated film. For more, visit LionKing.com. Tickets starting at $35 and may be purchased online at drphillipscenter. org or by calling 844-513-2014.

To everyone who: • Donated merchandise to the ReStore • Came in to shop • Volunteered • Provided financial support • Cheered us on Thanks for helping us to help others!

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

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WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

JOSH RECOMMENDS

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

WEST ORANG E HISTO RY

OrangeObserver.com

THESE OLD TIMES 85 years ago

Opening at Plant and South Main streets in Winter Garden, Crosby’s Drug Store will give free ice cream to the children, favors to the ladies and cigars to the men.

75 years ago

The War Production Board has asked city officials, merchants and citizens to dispense with outdoor decorative lighting this Christmas, pointing out that it requires the use of critical materials, electricity and manpower not in line with general conservation programs.

70 years ago

FROM THE WINTER GARDEN HERITAGE FOUNDATION

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2017

THROWBACK THURSDAY DEC. 17, 1987 In the 1980s, people wanting to enjoy a movie had two, possibly three, options: watch it in the theater when it was first released, watch a shortened version on television (if it made it that far) or rent a copy of it from the local video store. Movie Gallery, in Ocoee, was one such chain store in West Orange, and its advertisement in the Dec. 17, 1987, issue of The West Orange Times gave patrons a chance to win a free VCR and to purchase a variety of tapes, including Disney and Christmas movies, that were for sale.

Constructed c. 1923 by Winter Garden pioneer James Lafayette Dillard, the Mann and Mills Dry Goods Store stood at 31 S. Main St. In addition to this shop, the building housed a shoe store, a doctor’s office and second-floor apartments. The shops closed during the Great Depression, and the building was bought in the 1940s by Collie Biggers, owner of the Garden Theatre on Plant Street. Biggers transformed it into the Gem Theatre to accommodate the overflow crowds at the Garden brought about by Armed Forces personnel based in the area. Mann and Mills’ 1920s advertisement guarantees the purchase of a talking doll, valued at $3, for only 99 cents, so long as the shopper spends $10 in the store. The Winter Garden Heritage Foundation documents OWNER’S TITLE INSURANCE and preserves the history of all PROTECTS YOU… the businesses located in the YOUR KIDS… downtown Historic District over YOUR GRANDKIDS… the past 125 years.

The building being erected for the First National Bank of Winter Garden, at the corner of Plant and Boyd streets, is YOUR GREAT-GRANDKIDS AND… nearing completion. It is a handsome structure, one of WELL, YOU GET THE the most modern and conThe mission ofIDEA. the Winter Garden Heritage Foundation is to preserve the heritage and veniently arranged banking architecture of Winter Garden while creating new cultural experiences. The Foundation also houses in the state. preserves the material culture of West Orange County, using it to educate the area’s youth on

the community’s rich history.

40 years ago

The West Orange Junior Service League held its annual Debutante Ball at the Bay Hill Country Club. Presented were Mariann Perona, Cindy Baker, Kasha Taylor, Kelly Crofoot, Julia Hardy, Elizabeth Sawyer, Eva Christina

Jones, Cheryl Jones, Margaret Britt, Kathy Emerson and Lynn Freeman. Buzz Lamb’s first-grade classes at Windermere Elementary and Kelly Hicks and Kitty Get your ALTA title Getting owner’s insurance is one of the Homebuyer Guide atdecisions you’ll make smartest and easiest Osburn’s Girl Scout troop made alta.org/homebuyer. as a homebuyer. It’s a one-time purchase that protects Christmas your property rights tray as long as you favors for Meals or your heirs own your home. on Wheels.

35 years ago

10 years ago

Commander Hollis W. Holden, a 1960 Lakeview High School graduate, took command of the USS Mendel Rivers, one of the Navy’s fastest nuclear-powered submarines.

The first homes are going up in phase 1 of Oakland Park, the first neighborhood in Florida to be designated as a green community. These homes are in the northernmost section near Lake Apopka.

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

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

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Is he here yet?

257734

SPONSORED BY MARK’S FLOORS

Larry Forrest Larry Forrest is only a sophomore, but already, he has become a stalwart for the CFCA boys soccer team at goalkeeper — amassing as many as 15 saves in one game — and he is a leader for the Eagles this winter.

How long have you been playing soccer? About four years. It was just something my parents signed me up for, and I just kept playing — I liked it. It was fun, and I got to know a lot of good people. How did you end up playing goalie? Basically, I had a heart condition (cardiomyopathy), and I couldn’t run a lot. So I got stuck here (in goal), and I just got comfortable with it. What’s your mentality toward playing goalkeeper? I basically get a lot of adrenaline flowing and I’m like “I’m not going to let them score — this is my goal and I’m going to protect it.” The team played well in a win over Mount Dora Christian. What went well during that game? We were cohesive in practice, and we got some really nice practices in (ahead of the game). It flowed well during the game, and we were on point. Which remaining game on the schedule are you looking forward to the most? Our rematch against Windermere Prep. We kind of got mercy ruled by them last time, but I think we can do a lot better.

THE BASICS Hometown: Orlando Year: Sophomore Height: 5-foot-10 Position: Goalkeeper

Which of your teammates is the most positive and also the funniest? Lincoln Matthews, he’s the most positive. The funniest is probably Eric Osbourne. Do you follow professional soccer? I follow the Premiere League, and I’ve been liking Manchester United for a while. Wayne Rooney was one of my favorite players. What do you enjoy about going to school at CFCA? It’s just a great positive environment. We get to serve Christ and talk about Him freely. It’s a great atmosphere. Do you have a favorite Bible verse? Jeremiah 29:11. Basically, it’s just saying that God knows what’s going to happen and what your life is going to be, so you just leave it all on Him. Looking ahead to college, what field of study are you interested in? I was looking toward the medical field — a nursing or pharmacy degree. I’m a people person, and I really like helping people who are in need. What are you looking forward to the most about Christmas? Spending time with family and celebrating Christ’s birth. If you’re stuck on a deserted island with a television and a Blu-ray player and you can bring one movie, which are you picking? That’s hard. I’m going to chill with “The Incredibles.” — STEVEN RYZEWSKI

Athlete of the Week sponsored by:

Strikers FROM PAGE 17

The casual atmosphere allows participants the opportunity to take the game at their own pace and style. Some bowl slow. Some bowl fast. Some throw straight, while others hook the ball. And the sport is easily adaptable for those who may have medical impairments, such as a bad knee or hip. “I got a new knee, and about a week after, I was in here bowling again,” DeVol said.

Old Bowlers Never Die is a mixed league, meaning both men and women can compete together, and bowlers range in age from their 50s to their 80s. “We have a guy here who is 83,” Eddie Schedd said. “I hope I’m up and bowling at 83.” In addition to the camaraderie, many of the members enjoy coming out each week to burn a few extra calories. “It gives me good exercise, so it gives me a reason to come out,” Schedd said. Some of the ladies in the league double down on the bowling fun and participate

Football FROM PAGE 17

program, coming off a 2017 campaign where the Warriors (6-4) just missed making the FHSAA Class 8A Playoffs. The Warriors will play this game in place of their originally scheduled matchup against Freedom High. “Since I came to Florida, we’ve had some opportunities to play some games and travel, and I never really truly entertained it, because I’m always worried about logistics and money and the kids missing school,” Head said. “The way this game seemed to play out, I felt like it’d be a great opportunity.” Some of those logistics for the game will be sorted out in an ongoing matter. Shafer said last week the team is undecided as to whether it will fly or take charter buses with some stops along the way to maximize the experience. For parents and supporters of the program who are interested in making the trip, a package deal offering food, lodging and tickets to the game also could be offered. The program also will be doing some fundraising in the coming months to offset costs. “We’re going to have to do some fundraising to get where we want to go — it’s not cheap, obviously,” Shafer said. “But it’s also one of those things you can’t pass up.” The game is a unique opportunity in a number of ways. First, there is the stadium

Citrus Bowl invite a homecoming for Williams When the No. 14 Notre Dame Fighting Irish (9-3) and the No. 17 LSU Tigers (9-3) clash in the

File photo

The Warriors will play in front of a crowd of upward of 10,000 people Sept. 7 in Canton, Ohio. Games against out-of-state teams, especially from Florida, are said to be a big draw.

and its close proximity to the Pro Football Hall of Fame. The stadium once belonged to McKinley High (its campus is next door) but has since become the NFL property. However, the Bulldogs play their home games there, and the state football championships for Ohio are played there, as well. The 23,000-seat venue has been refurbished and features many of the bells and whistles of an NFL stadium. “I pulled up the virtual tour of the stadium … and it was incredible,” Head said. “That’ll be something really neat for the kids.” The opponent, too, presents an opportunity. The Bulldogs, who went 8-3 this fall and made

the playoffs, are a nationally recognized program with a lot of tradition. The game, itself, figures to attract a crowd of more than 10,000, according to Shafer, given that the football-crazed community in Canton will be excited to get a look at a team from Florida. “Everyone in Ohio always wonders what the Florida teams are like,” Shafer said. “It’s a huge draw. It’s not your average highschool football game. There will be a very big crowd.” Shafer also confirmed he and the staff from McKinley are exploring avenues to get the game televised in both markets: Canton and Orlando.

Citrus Bowl Jan. 1 in downtown Orlando, it will double as a homecoming for Notre Dame junior running back Dexter Williams. Williams is a graduate of West Orange High and also attended Olympia High during his varsity career.

This season, Williams appeared in nine games and rushed for 325 yards on 37 carries, including four touchdowns. The Citrus Bowl Presented by Overton’s will air nationally on ABC at 1 p.m. Jan. 1.

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in the Happy Hookers league on Thursday mornings. It’s a league strictly for women, but the fun, casual atmosphere is the same. “With these ladies, it’s a lot of fun,” said Mary Sybol. “I enjoy the camaraderie. It’s more of a social event for us.” And after the fun of bowling is over, everyone drives to a nearby restaurant to meet up for lunch — something that is now a Thursday tradition with the group. “Some of the best friends I have came through bowling,” Coffman said.

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OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2017

GAME FILM

Big second half pushes Warriors past Wolverines

packed house filled the gym for the first meeting of the West Orange Warriors and Windermere Wolverines in boys basketball. And although the Wolverines started strong and led 27-21 at halftime, the Warriors outscored their guests 28-10 in the third quarter and never looked back en route to a decisive 62-48 victory. K.J. Simon led all scorers with 16 points and Elijah Jackson chipped in 11 points for West Orange (2-3). Dakota Rivers had 11 points to lead Windermere (4-3), while Josh Colon was strong with nine points off the bench. — STEVEN RYZEWSKI

GO ONLINE

For more photos from this game and others, visit ObserverPreps. com.

Freshman E.J. Yorke takes some contact while rising for a layup against the Wolverines.

Photos by Steven Ryzewski

West Orange’s JaMarcus Clark looks for a pair of points at the basket, but Windermere’s Dakota Rivers is close on his tail.

LETTERS TO SANTA

Thank you for sending a letter to Mr. and Mrs. Claus. Santa will leave a special gift for you at the West Orange Times & Observer office at 720 S Dillard St, Winter Garden.

260534

Congratulations Jose Quiros Jr. and Ruby Hernandez 261017

Nigel Brown takes a step back and to reset the Warriors’ offense.

West Orange senior K.J. Simon roars after slamming home a crowdpleasing dunk.

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2017

OrangeObserver.com

257836

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

W EAT HER

OrangeObserver.com

I LOVE WEST ORANGE

FORECAST

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2017

SUNRISE / SUNSET

THURSDAY, DEC. 21

High: 80 Low: 58 Chance of rain: 20%

FRIDAY, DEC. 22 High: 82 Low: 62 Chance of rain: 10%

Sunrise Sunset

Thursday, Dec. 21

7:15a

5:34p

Friday, Dec. 22

7:15a

5:34p

Saturday, Dec. 23

7:16a

5:35p

Sunday, Dec. 24

7:16a

5:35p

Monday, Dec. 25

7:16a

5:36p

Tuesday, Dec. 26

7:17a

5:37p

Wednesday, Dec. 27

7:17a

5:37p

MOON PHASES

SATURDAY, DEC. 23 High: 84 Low: 65 Chance of rain: 10%

Ocoee resident Jan Pewsey submitted this gorgeous photo taken at Magnolia Park Lake Apopka at sunset. Pewsey calls it, “Man’s Best Friend.” The West Orange Times and Observer is hosting this weekly contest, and winners will have their photograph featured and receive a $20 prize. To enter, email your photo, along with your name, city and a caption, to amyq@orangeobserver.com; put “I Love West Orange” in the subject line. Please include your mailing address to receive your prize.

0.00

Wednesday, Dec. 13

0.00

High: 81 Low: 63 Chance of rain: 20%

Thursday, Dec. 14

0.00

Friday, Dec. 15

0.00

Saturday, Dec. 16

0.00

Sunday, Dec. 17

0.00

Monday, Dec. 18

0.00

COLLECT $200 by Timothy B. Parker

33 The object’s 35 Nail-on-hosiery result 37 Secret hook-up 39 Catches lazy flies 42 Some greetings 46 Finders of superstars 52 Eucalyptus leaves lover 53 Beautiful and then some 55 Kind of jack? 57 Cold weather coat 58 Japanese stringed instruments (var.) 59 Paradise lost 62 Put one’s foot down 63 French river

64 Twosomes 65 Sushi bar fish 66 Round-mouthed cries 69 Leftover burning bit 70 Stop for good 71 A Kennedy 74 Crane relative 76 An NFL squad 77 Palm foodstuff 78 Old newspaper photo sections 81 Be a jackal 85 Like a “no” voter 86 First Super Bowl MVP 87 Windfalls and major boons

YEAR TO DATE:

DEC. TO DATE:

2017 52.23 in.

2017

.52 in.

2016 48.40 in.

2016

.42 in.

118 Cheerfulness 121 Poison 122 Old lyric poem 123 Short film, in projectionist-speak 124 Arm support 125 Scatter seed again 126 Exxon, pre-Exxon 127 Radical group of the ‘60s, for short

88 Reverses editorially 90 They make pancakes from anything 93 One who is not himself 95 Twist partner, to the Beatles 96 Injection of truth? 100 Unruly uprising 102 Feathered six-footer 103 Pool hall staple 105 Mali-to-Iran dir. 106 Sailor’s back 109 Sudden, sharp pain 113 Almost an A 115 Mr. Holland’s creation 116 Ring-tailed critter

1 “The African Queen” star 2 Huge fan 3 Make changes 4 Goopy salon application 5 Where fetuses develop 6 Stopwatch button 7 Bear that’s up all night? 8 Short farewell 9 Pair on the lake 10 Vulnerable leg part 11 Stimulating plant 12 Bathday cakes? 13 Coach’s motivator 14 Intense wrath 15 Milky dairy product 16 Peas anagram 17 Mulligan, for one 19 Postgrad deg. 20 Ones who enjoy inflicting pain 24 Greek legends 29 Frontal attachment for “log” 32 Parties for guys only 34 ___ fly (runner advancer) 36 Spurred into action 38 Bacon unit 40 Epicureans 41 Violently breaks in two 43 Impressive gymnastics maneuver 44 Soothing ingredient 45 Cut, as two-by-fours 47 Stan with all the superheroes 48 Longest geologic time unit 49 Some Greek consonants 50 It gets under your collar 51 Balloon used as a probe 53 Fence attachment

54 Breakfast eatery staples (var.) 56 Sentence VIP 58 Gettysburg-to-Baltimore dir. 59 Sodom’s sister city 60 Walk casually 61 Tae Bo was one 63 Locks down 66 Kin of net and gov 67 Word on one of two towels 68 Baseball card info 72 54-Down VIPs 73 Jane who shall remain nameless? 75 Swelling of the thyroid 77 Word with horse or common 78 File in a woodshop 79 Word with latch or catch 80 Big wine holder 81 One of the musical note sounds 82 Rig driver’s license 83 Chemistry suffix 84 Poem or bible unit 87 Reached by accumulating 89 Appropriate 91 One of the Stooges 92 Rhythmic Cuban dance 94 Your stadium seat sits in one 97 Holds off or back 98 Still on the shelves 99 Gentlemen (Abbr.) 101 Large feline 103 Perfect treatments 104 Needers of rehab 106 Does a thespian’s thing 107 April dupe 108 Uber alternative 110 Yep antonym 111 Syllables from baby 112 Tropical vegetable 114 Clair de ___ (moonlight) 115 “It takes ___ to know ...” 117 Roofing material, sometimes 119 Word with York or Delhi 120 “Gloria in excelsis ___”

260555

CELEBRITY CIPHER

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

“R OUPMI DVLK IUBK WUXK ZRYD WF OVXKKX YDVB R IRI ... BU CUPX HXVTKC; R WKVB, R IUB’Y DVLK VBF XKHXKYC.” – NUDB DKVXI “EKFL FXZNU IZO VFX YKKPXOV YZV HL LXI AKNM YHVA ... FX IZO UXTHZLV ... DKXVHY ... FX IZO NHUHYGPKGOPA RXLXNKGO.” – UZLHXP OVXNL Puzzle Two Clue: D equals P

1 Impact sound 4 Wise know-it-all 8 Some pears 13 1/6-inch printing units 18 Dashboard features 21 “Hurray!” relative 22 Blow one’s top 23 Seventh-inning song 25 In and of itself 26 Opera feature 27 Primed 28 Attack verbally 30 Morning moisture 31 Call a game 32 Make oneself at home

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Jan. 24 First

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

12-21-17

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2017

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OrangeObserver.com

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Branch Manager

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UPGRADES & REPAIRS E Since 1978 VIRUS & SPYWAR Premier Roofing Company Winter Garden’s REMOVAL of West Orange County Serving All and Replacement RD DATA & PASSWO and Insured Roof Repairs Fully Licensed RECOVERY

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This week’s Sudoku answers

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Thursday, December 21, 2017

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BUSINESS DIRECTORY

TRAYWICK'S

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407.614.5962

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BUS DRIVER Full time. Must have CDL and clean driving record. Flexible hours, which could include hours on weekends and evenings. Competitive pay and benefits for full time employment. Apply at Montverde Academy, CR 455, Montverde, FL. 12/21ma

This week’s Crossword answers

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orangeobserver.com

2017

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2017

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