CONNECT IN PARTNERSHIP WITH METROWEST MASTER ASSOCIATION
Live. Work. Play. Connect. News, information and events
about our diverse neighborhood of families, professionals, students and businesses.
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Dear Friends: Creating community connections is a top priority of the MetroWest Master Association. Strong connections create a closerknit, caring community to build on the strong foundation that MetroWest has known over the past 30 years. So how do you build a connected community? Connecting through communications Sharing the happenings, news and events within our community will create an even greater sense of pride for residents and business owners alike. Welcome to the inaugural issue of the MetroWest Connect brought to you in partnership with the MetroWest Master Association and the West Orange Times & Observer. This quarterly publication will include news, information and events about our unique community. Over 18,000 copies will be distributed through the West Orange Times & Observer, the Master Association and businesses throughout MetroWest. In addition, we have a dynamic and interactive website www.metrowestcommunity.com and an active Facebook page. Our forthcoming community mobile app will also be another great way to receive news and event information, find local restaurants and businesses and stay connected. Own a business? You can be an “APPvertiser” too. Connecting at community events Last summer’s Smooth JazzFest was a great event – rain or shine, there was no stopping the party! The event was a hit, with incredible live, interactive performances by nationally recognized smooth jazz entertainers. This year’s event will offer yet another chance for our community to come out and have a blast dancing, laughing and enjoying each other’s company. Stay tuned for more details coming soon. Live. Work. Play. Connect. It’s more than a tagline – it’s a way of life in MetroWest. I look forward to connecting with you. Sincerely,
LET’S CONNECT! We want to make the MetroWest CONNECT your community source for news and information. Please share your good news with us.
Jim Drayton Board President MetroWest Master Association
NAME: COMMUNITY/BUSINESS: EMAIL ADDRESS: WHAT’S YOUR GOOD NEWS OR UPCOMING EVENT? Submit To: Craig Crenshaw at mwma.admin@cfl.rr.com.
About This Section Published by:
in partnership with the MetroWest Master Association
Publisher - Dawn Willis Executive Editor - Mike Eng Creative Designer - Laine Richardson Ad Designer - Andres Tam Advertising Executive - Cyndi Gustafson Advertising Executive - Kim Edwards Contact to advertise: advertising@wotimes.com or call 407-656-2121 Published four times a year on: February 26th, April 30th, August 20th & November 19th, 2015
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2014: Celebrating a Stronger, Closer Community.
Great communities come in many shapes and sizes, but they all have one thing in common: a strong sense of connection. This happens wherever residents, businesses and institutions have a shared stake in the community and the determination to work together for its improvement. This is precisely what is happening today in MetroWest. 2014 was a landmark year in bringing our community closer. The big story was our MetroWest Master Association, which became community-owned in October 2014. We are now truly “of the people, by the people, for the people” in our relationship with the residents and businesses of MetroWest. Believing that “a connected community is a protected community,” we partnered with Critical Intervention Services, Inc. (CIS), a Florida leader in safety strategies, to roll out a community-wide public safety program in April 2014. The CIS approach is called the Community and Character Based Protective Initiative (CCBPI). It emphasizes partnership between MWMA, CIS, the Orlando Police Department (OPD), the Orange County Sheriff, MetroWest residents and businesses to establish trust, organization and connection in promoting public safety. This long-term program reflects our commitment to assure the highest quality of living in our community for years to come.
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Further evidence of a connected community can be seen in our A-rated schools, beautifully landscaped grounds and popular community events, all reflecting the pride we have in MetroWest. In this report, you’ll learn how our community is growing stronger by coming together. We invite you to become part of this exciting story by joining your friends and neighbors in the rewarding task of community building. You’ll be glad you did!
A Connected Community is a Protected Community.
This is the slogan of our public safety program, which we rolled out in 2014. We developed the program in partnership with Critical Intervention Services, Inc. (CIS), a leading provider of public security services. Our approach consists of building partnerships between MWMA, CIS, local law enforcement, MetroWest residents and businesses, to create an environment that discourages any acts of law-breaking. This approach has been highly successful in other communities and we expect excellent results from our own efforts, both in the short- and long-term.
Four Schools, Four A’s.
We are very proud to report that in 2014, each of our four schools was rated “A” by the Orange County Public Schools (OCPS). These schools are: • MetroWest Elementary School • Gotha Middle School • Chain of Lakes Middle School • Olympia High School Congratulations to teachers, parents, administrators— and most of all, students!
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MetroWest: A Beautiful Place, a Beautiful Location.
With its award winning communities and central location, MetroWest is one of the nicest places to live and work in Orlando. Here, residents are just minutes from Metro Orlando and dazzling downtown Orlando, the interstates and Central Florida’s world famous attractions. There are also many activities to enjoy right here including shopping, dining, golf and more.
State-of-the-Art Irrigation System Beautifies, Saves Money.
In December 2014, our new community-wide irrigation system was completed, following a 10-month installation process. The new system is a computer-driven technical marvel that meets the highest city and state water standards. At the same time, it saves communities money thanks to its eco-friendly water regulation. Last year MetroWest was a finalist for the Florida Communities of Excellence 2014 Florida Friendly Landscaping Award. In December, the City of Orlando honored MetroWest with their Environmental Excellence Award for efficient use of reclaimed water. Our community is known for its quality landscaping. We are committed to keeping this visible symbol of our community looking beautiful and meeting the highest environmental standards at all times.
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Community-Owned, Professionally Managed.
In 2014, the MetroWest Master Association (MWMA) became one hundred percent community-owned, a major step in solidifying the relationship between MWMA and homeowners. Meanwhile, FirstService Residential’s Julie Sanchez, who serves as MetroWest Community Manager, was a finalist for the prestigious 2014 National Manager of the Year Award. She was also honored with the West Orange Chamber of Commerce’s esteemed George Bailey Award. With a talented management team, a responsible master association and committed homeowners, everything is in place to assure a high quality of life at MetroWest.
Thriving Businesses and Recreation Choices Attract Interest and Crowds.
There’s nothing like a vibrant business core and quality recreational opportunities to keep a community together. MetroWest has a diverse business base including financial institutions, education, medical services, restaurants, retail and more. We are also home to the corporate headquarters of Hard Rock Café, Hilton Resorts Corporation and Valencia College, to name a few. For relaxation we offer a variety of fitness clubs, along with our Robert Trent Jones, Sr. Signature Design Golf Course, voted the “Best Golf Course in Orlando.”
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Fun-Filled Community Events Offer Something for Everyone.
There’s always something exciting going on at MetroWest. Our 2014 calendar featured a variety of events that drew crowds from both in and outside our community. On June 1, 2014, we kicked off the summer with our Summer Smooth JazzFest, where attendees enjoyed great music, food, drink, dancing, and a MetroWest schools art festival. For WinterFest 2014 we brought out our big screen and hosted a showing of the hit movie, “Frozen.” Other events included the West Orange County Chamber of Commerce’s “The Taste of West Orange,” and Veranda Park’s always-popular Farmer’s Market.
2014
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BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT: Life Worth Living/La Vie Spa Life Worth Living Pharmacy and La Vie Spa is an independent, fullservice pharmacy and wellness center. It is modeled after neighborhood drug stores with old-time valules and excellent customer service. Its staff strives to provide quality pharaceutical products and services with individual attention and a positive customer experience.
One-stop holistic and traditional medicine, and wellness spa.
ABOUT THE BUSINESS
What makes MetroWest an ideal community for your business? MetroWest has a family feel. That is why we want to be in MetroWest.
What kind of good or services does your business offer to the MetroWest community?
THE BASICS ADDRESS: 6488 Currin Drive, Orlando HOURS: 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Mondays through Fridays, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays PHONE: (407) 522-5685 WEBSITE: lwlpharmacy. com
What are some ways your business contributes to the MetroWest community? We participate in all community affairs and sit on board for events going on to give back to the community.
What sets your business apart from any competitors? At Life Worth Living Wellness Center, we treat patient with integrity and kindness. Do you have any big goals planned for your business in the next five years? Yes, to open more than one location.
What is your business’ motto or mission and why? To make people more aware of their health and what traditional medicine can do to your body. The dream is to have everyone be more holistic and understand. How do you describe your clients/customers? We have all types of clients from all walks of life. How many employees do you have? Eighteen. Are you on social media? If so, where? Facebook, Twitter and Instagram
ABOUT THE OWNER How long have you been in the business? Since 2004. What is the secret to your success? God.
Dr. Michael Ayotunde
What is your background? Professional? Education? Michael Ayotunde is a registered pharmacist and certified trainer for technician and pharmacists. What is your management style? We believe in having a family environment at our business.
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www.lavieexperience.com 407-730-3048 “ Wellness Spa and Pharmacy all under one roof” 6488 Currin Drive, Orlando Florida
We believe a healthy mind, body and spirit are essential to living a rich and fulfilling life. That is why we approach wellness from both a medical and holistic view. 30,000 sq. ft. of holistic wellness and preventative care.
• Health Assessment • Cosmetic Assessment • Doctors monitor wellness & health • Certified Clinical Nutritionist • Massage• Fitness Center & Rehabilitation • Facials • Thermage • Kitchen to teach you how to cook • Fraxal Laser • Weight Loss
www.lwlpharmacy.com
407-522-5685
• Exceptional Customer Service • Compounding Center • Prescription Delivery • Local Community outreach efforts • Disease Management
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$1,500 Move-In Fee waived Mention this ad. Expires March 31, 2015
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MetroWest Connects Community Through Health Walk
MetroWest Master Association recently hosted the MetroWest Connection Health Walk starting at the MetroWest Golf Club. This free family event featured health/fitness demonstrations, nutritional information and the opportunity to get healthy while learning more about some of MetroWest’s featured health/wellness businesses. The active group walked the 2.5-mile route from the MetroWest Golf Club to Anytime Fitness, LaVie Experience and The Body Club.
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Nothing but Progress for the Public Safety Program! by Patricia Schmitt, MetroWest Public Safety Director
Last spring, the MWMA and Critical Intervention Services launched their longplanned MetroWest Public Safety Program, and on April 27, 2014, CIS boots hit the ground running. CIS officers began canvassing neighborhoods to introduce folks to program concepts and CIS’ CCBPI methodology, and to explain the driving force at the heart of the program: “A connected community is a protected community.” From day one CIS has been hard at work organizing community events, getting to know residents and business owners, bonding with our community’s children, meeting with HOA’s and COA’s, identifying and addressing “hot spots,” and reporting suspicious activity and working with OPD. Nearly a year later, the program has gained great momentum as more and more community members become involved and connected and new ideas come to life in our neighborhoods to progressively improve public safety for MetroWest residents, guests and business owners alike.
In addition to the highly effective strategies already successfully in play, new safety tools are being put to use in MetroWest communities and new ones are on the horizon. Most recently, the MWMA and CIS teamed up and brought SmartWater CSI on board and, with the support of OPD, rolled out a new anti-crime initiative in an effort to forensically protect our community members’ property. SmartWater is a cutting edge crime deterrent, apprehension and property recovery tool designed to assist law enforcement in catching and prosecuting criminals who burglarize our community. With the simple application of SmartWater’s clear, odorless liquid on almost any item, law enforcement can trace ownership of recovered stolen items and return them to their rightful owner. In some cases they can even link the stolen
property to its thief, who may then face criminal charges. So far the response has been “brilliant” and we encourage you to sign up with SmartWater and safeguard your stuff! Also in the Public Safety Program pipeline is an SMS community alert system that will provide residents and business owners with pertinent, MetroWest-specific information regarding weather, traffic, emergencies and criminal activity. Messages will be directed to specific communities and zones or even throughout MetroWest as a whole. The two-way system, due to be active in the very near future, will allow the community to be aware of real time situations and respond to alerts. Presently, we are gathering phone numbers from community members and building a database. The MetroWest community alert system will offer everyone who participates just one more way to stay safe and stay in the know where they live, work and play. When it comes to MetroWest, the MWMA is committed to building on success to further enhance MetroWest’s high quality of life. The MetroWest Public Safety Program is a shining example of what we can do together to make the most of MetroWest and to leave residents and business owners with greater peace of mind and would-be criminals thinking twice about victimizing our connected community. For more information about the MetroWest Public Safety Program, SmartWater CSI and the upcoming community alert system, visit www.metrowestcommunity. com.
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JazzFest One of last year’s jazz notables will be back to share his unique blend of jazz music with MetroWest again this year. Will Donato, national recording artist and saxophonist, will be the headliner at this year’s Smooth JazzFest on Sunday, May 3, 2015 from 4-8 p.m. at the MetroWest Golf Club. In addition to live music, the event will feature food,
drinks and dancing and a MetroWest-area school art contest, showcasing music-themed artwork designed by local students. Proceeds from the event will once again benefit the Edgewood Children’s Ranch, a residential program helping children, teens and their families address behavioral issues. JazzFest is a festival for the entire family. We hope to see you there!
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MetroWest’s 3rd Annual WinterFest Collected Sleigh Full of Donations for Local Charity WinterFest was a great chance to spread holiday cheer to deserving kids within our community. MetroWest Master Association, managed by FirstService Residential, hosted their 3rd Annual WinterFest in mid-December to benefit the Edgewood Children’s Ranch. Attendees of the family fun event were asked to donate dry goods, sporting equipment, gift cards and cash to help fulfill the non-profit’s ongoing needs. Edgewood Children’s Ranch is a residential program helping children, teens and their families address behavioral issues. The MetroWest community generously stepped up to donate more than 1,000 items including paper goods, laundry detergent, food staples, condiments, canned food, sporting equipment and gift cards. WinterFest was a drop-off location for these items. There was a “Charity Challenge” among businesses within MetroWest to determine who could collect and raise the most for Edgewood Children’s Ranch. The winner was awarded a pizza party courtesy of Josie’s Pizza and Wings, a local MetroWest restaurant. Congratulations to National Real Estate
Employees of National Real Estate were treated to a pizza party courtesy of Josie’s Pizza and Wings. (pictured at right) for collecting 300 canned food items for Edgewood Children’s Ranch.
WinterFest
It is a true testament to how a local business can make a significant community impact.
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BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT: The Body Club The Body Club, a dream and vision of owner and CEO Toni Lemieux, opened its doors in December 2013. After watching her father train to win four world championship powerlifting medals in their family owned gym in Charleston, South Carolina, Lemieux’s passion for fitness led her to become a fitness instructor herself. Throughout the years working for other facilities, she saw an opportunity that other facilities were missing to offer the member
THE BASICS ADDRESS: 2121 S. Hiawassee Road, Suite 120, Orlando HOURS: 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. Mondays through Fridays, 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturdays, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sundays PHONE: (407) 730-6277 WEBSITE: thebodyclub. com
a unique experience: to create and build a gym that specializes in all forms of fitness.
ABOUT THE BUSINESS What kind of good or services does your business offer to the MetroWest community? We are a full-service gym offering many fitness genres. We have a circuit floor with topof-the-line cardio and weighttraining equipment. Our groupfitness schedule is filled with more than 70 classes per week, including Les Mills classes, cardio and strength-training classes, yoga, Pilates and dance classes such as Zumba, and a cycle studio where we offer freestyle and RPM training. These are included in every membership we offer. What are some ways your business contributes to the MetroWest community? In the past year, we have held a neighborhood pet friendly “Doggies Day Out,” joined with the MetroWest Association in
many of its community-outreach programs, such as the recent “Health Walk,” and held the WJRR Self Defense 101, a women’s selfdefense course. What makes MetroWest an ideal community for your business? MetroWest has been perfect for our family friendly business. Not only do we treat our members like family, (but also) we are part of a community of small business that help and support each other.
What sets your business apart from any competitors? We like to get to know our members, encourage them to reach their goals and motivate them every step of the way. Do you have any big goals planned for your business in the next five years? The Body Club would like to expand to multiple locations, continue to grow our memberships, add more fitness programs and possibly franchise.
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connect In partnership with MetroWest Master Association
To reserve your ad space call
407-656-2121
Or Email: Cyndi Gustafson at advertising@wotimes.com Kim Edwards at kedwards@wotimes.com 720 South Dillard Street Winter Garden, FL 34787
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18,000 copies distributed through the West Orange Times & Observer — in addition to distribution through the Master Association and key locations throughout MetroWest. This quarterly publication will include news, information and events about your community.
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West Oaks Mall
9401 W. Colonial Dr. Ocoee, FL 34761 Mall Hours: M-Sat 10-9, Sun 12-6
407-294-1494
westoaksmall.com
CHOOSING THE BEST PRESCHOOL IS CRITICAL TO THE GROWTH AND SUCCESS OF YOUR CHILD. Our Program Promotes your Children’s Social, Emotional, Intellectual and Physical Development in a Safe and Nurturing Environment.
Our Special Program: • Love and deeply care for your child • An exceptional education: - Teach strong reading and math skills - Best curriculum ages 1-5 • Qualified teachers who truly care • Warm and welcoming classrooms • Rich in Music, Art, Drama, and Sports • Creative discovery of cultures and languages around the world • Grow seasonal vegetables, offering delicious and healthy meals
Early Childhood Learning Center Please call today to Schedule a Tour
“Our Kids are more confident and perform better when they enter Kindergarten”
407-293-9372