03.21.19 West Orange Times & Observer by Orange Observer

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

Observer Celebrating 110 years in West Orange

Magnificent masquerade 13.

YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD. VOLUME 86, NO. 12

FREE

Luck of the Irish Crooked Can Brewing Company’s Celtic Festival celebrates St. Patrick’s Day. Page 12.

“Back home where it belongs”

•

THURSDAY, MARCH 21, 2019

Construction firm to bring headquarters to Winter Garden Winter Garden commissioners approved the first reading of a rezone request for a proposed office development. GABBY BAQUERO NEWS EDITOR

VMG Construction aims to build its headquarters in Winter Garden. The company, a commercialconstruction subcontractor, submitted a rezoning request to the city of Winter Garden, which approved the proposed rezone’s first reading during the March 14 commission meeting. VMG has requested city leaders to approve the rezoning of a 0.54-acre property located at 43 First St. from C-2 (Arterial Commercial District) to PCD (Planned Commercial Development. VMG plans to build a one-story, 3,200-square-foot office building on the south side of the property, according to city documents. Plans also include a new parking area, sidewalks, drive aisles and landscaping. Currently, the property houses a 1,800-square-foot masonry commercial-office building constructed in 1920 and a 1,500-square-foot warehouse building constructed in 2016. The south side of the property has an asphalt-paved parking area. The ordinance’s second reading is scheduled for the March 28 Winter Garden City Commission meeting. SEE CONSTRUCTION PAGE 4 Amy Quesinberry

The American Legion has returned a precious flag and other mementos to the family of an airman killed in 2007. STORY ON PAGE 4.

MetroPlan Orlando, Ocoee working on Silver Star Road project The city of Ocoee and MetroPlan want to provide a lower-cost alternative to improve Silver Star Road.

GABBY BAQUERO NEWS EDITOR

Ocoee and MetroPlan Orlando are collaborating on a project to improve a 1.2-mile stretch of roadway that includes Franklin Street and Silver Star Road. MetroPlan and the city of Ocoee hosted an informational forum at the Woman’s Club of Ocoee on

Thursday, March 14, to present the recommended road improvements and collect feedback from area residents. Previously, Silver Star Road had been planned to be widened to four lanes with a center turn lane between State Road 429 and Clarke Road. But further evaluation of the roadway led MetroPlan and Ocoee to consider keeping

it as a two-lane road, said Nick Lepp, the director of transportation planning for MetroPlan Orlando. “Silver Star Road was planned to be widened to four lanes,” Lepp said. “But we wanted to take a new look at it and ask, ‘Does it really need four lanes? Is there someSEE PLANS PAGE 4

SPO RTS

Trip Long holds his late father’s shadow box that was returned to the family last week. Inside are the American flag that draped Mike Long’s coffin, his military service ribbons, police badge and bullet casings from the 21-gun salute at his funeral

Go, racer kid! 17.

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

YOU R CALENDAR

THURSDAY, MARCH 21

CHAMBER BUSINESS AFTER HOURS 5 p.m. Thursday, March 21, at Richmond American Homes – Roper Reserve, 412 Silver Dollar Lane, Winter Garden. Join the West Orange Chamber of Commerce for the monthly Business After Hours. Partake in an adventurous scavenger hunt while two model homes. An evening of building business relationships and enjoying appetizers and door prizes. (407) 656-1304.

SATURDAY, MARCH 23

BIG YELLOW CABOOSE ADVENTURE 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, March 23, at the Winter Garden Heritage Foundation’s Heller Hall, 21 E. Plant St. The whole family is invited to enjoy live entertainment, hands-on activities and snacks while learning about local history in a fun way. Cost is $5 per family for ages 2 and older. RSVP to jzimmerman@wghf.org.

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 21, 2019

MONDAY, MARCH 25

RENE MAGRITTE LECTURE Noon to 1:30 p.m. Saturday, March 23, at the SoBo Gallery, 127 S. Boyd St., Winter Garden. Unravel the mysteries in the work of painter Rene Magritte, who used repeated motifs and puns frequently in his artwork to create his own brand of Surrealism. The Winter Garden Art Association and Central Florida art historian Adrienne H. Lee present the program. Tickets are $10 for WGAA members, $15 for others. For information, call (407) 347-7996 or email info@wgart.org. Register at wgart.org/events/lecture-renemagritt/.

PREVENTION AND TREATMENT OF DIABETES 6 p.m. Monday, March 25, at the Winter Garden Library, 805 E. Plant St. Learn what diabetes is and how to prevent or reverse it through lifestyle changes. All ages welcome. (407) 835-7323.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 27

DNA PROBLEM-SOLVING TECHNIQUES 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 27, at the West Oaks Library, 1721 E. Silver Star Road, Ocoee. Learn how to utilize the Leeds Method and see how it can help you with your DNA analysis. Developed by Dana Leeds, the method will help identify groups of people in your DNA match list who are likely to share a common ancestor with each other. Grouping your matches often makes it easier to identify a common ancestor. (407) 8357323.

SUNDAY, MARCH 24

“RESOUNDING BRONZE” 4 p.m. Sunday, March 24, at the First United Methodist Church of Winter Garden, 125 N. Lakeview Ave. Christ Carillon Handbell Choir and friends will present “Resounding Bronze,” a musical concert. Music of many styles will be performed with handbells, vocalists, choirs, organ, piano, youth orchestra and professional instrumentalists. There is no charge, but guests can make a donation toward refurbishing the church 40-year-old bells. (407) 656-1135.

THURSDAY, MARCH 28

CELEBRATING EXTRAORDINARY WOMEN: AN EVENING OF COCKTAILS AND CONVERSATION 4 to 6 p.m. Thursday, March 28, at Lakewalk at Hamlin, 14012 Shoreside Way, Winter Garden. The West Orange Chamber of Commerce is celebrating three women, Marva Johnson, Ellen Korbin and Betsy VanderLey,

who will share their stories of dealing with obstacles in their lives to achieve their successes. Tickets are $36 in advance for Chamber members and $46 for others and for Chamber members at the door. Wochamber.com. WINTER GARDEN BOOK CLUB 6 p.m. Thursday, March 28, at the Winter Garden Library, 805 E. Plant St. Tom Hanks explores the human condition in all its foibles in his collection of short stories in “Uncommon Type: Some Stories.” The stories are linked by one thing: antique typewriters. (407) 835-7323.

FRIDAY, MARCH 29

AMERICAN LEGION VIETNAM VETERAN OPEN HOUSE 6:30 p.m. Friday, March 29, at the American Legion Post 63, 271 W. Plant St., Winter Garden. The post will recognize veterans of the Vietnam war at 8 p.m. with a pinning ceremony. The Vietnam War Veterans Recognition Act designates March 29 of each year as National Vietnam War Veterans Day. (407) 6566361.

independent men’s ministry focused on serving the men in the community. The guest speaker is Greg Snyder. IronMenofGod. com.

SATURDAY, MARCH 30

DOCUMENT SHREDDING 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, March 30, at the Ocoee Police Department, 646 Ocoee Commerce Parkway. Safely shred your confidential documents, including papers and file folders (paper clips and staples are OK). The first box is free; suggested donation of $5 per box thereafter; limit five boxes. Donations benefit local charities. (407) 905-3160. MY 5 SENSES 10:30 a.m. Saturday, March 30, at the Winter Garden Library, 805 E. Plant St. Toddlers and preschoolers can explore the wonders of their five senses while walking through interactive stations that will put their senses to work. (407) 835-7323.

IRONMEN OF GOD COFFEE 7 to 8 a.m. Friday, March 29, above Axum Coffee, 146 W. Plant St., Winter Garden. Join with other Christians in this

Also a wide selection of Boots and Guns YOUR LOCAL FEED STORE - PROVIDING ALL YOUR FARM LIFE NEEDS. We carry: • Progressive • Nutrena • Purina

• Seminole • Central States • Manna Pro • Triple Crown

• Diamond Dog Foods • Victor • Red Flannel • Burly & MORE!

Located behind

300447-1

12403 WEST COLONIAL DR • WINTER GARDEN, FL 34787 • 407-877-2553

ORHW-0057 - WOrange Times HalfPg_10.375x8 FINAL..pdf

3/14/19

5:23 PM

West Orange,

joint replacement.

CMY

Joint pain should never keep you from the activities you love which is why we utilize Mako® robotic-assisted technology for hip and knee replacement. This industry-leading medical technology allows our talented surgeons unparalleled control and accuracy. That means more natural-feeling joints and, in many cases, faster recovery times to get you up on your feet and back to your active lifestyle. For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call (321) 843-2001.

WINTER GARDEN • OCOEE • METRO WEST • APOPKA • GOTHA ZELLWOOD • OAKLAND • WINDERMERE • HORIZON WEST

In partnership with

ChooseOrlandoHealth.com/WestOrange 300402-1

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 21, 2019

CFX evaluating east-west tollway connecting Orange, Lake counties The Central Florida Expressway Authority is studying the feasibility of constructing a toll road connecting U.S. Highway 27 and State Road 429. GABBY BAQUERO NEWS EDITOR

The Central Florida Expressway Authority (CFX) is seeking public feedback regarding a possible tollway currently in consideration by the transportation agency. CFX, which has constructed and presently operates about 118 miles of toll roads in Lake, Orange, Osceola, and Seminole counties, has had its engineers study the viability of building a five-mile toll road between U.S. Highway 27 and State Road 429 between Clermont and southwest Orange County. At present, there are few eastwest roads capable of carrying high-volume traffic in the area. To the north, there is State Road 50, and to the south, there is U.S. 192 – both of which are highly congested six-lane roadways. “This Lake/Orange County connector is looking at providing high-speed direct access between U.S. 27 in the west and State Road 429 in the east,” said Kathy Putnam, the public involvement coordinator for the project’s study. “This will be really important for people from Lake County who need to get over to southwest Orange County and maybe to go to work over in the theme park area, as well as for people from

Courtesy

Using a process of elimination, CFX engineers have identified four alternative alignments for the tollway.

Orange County who want to get over to Lake County or Clermont. So it will be able to move a lot of people between these two major roadways.” CFX held its first public informational meeting regarding the proposed Lake/Orange County connector toll road on Thursday, Aug. 30, at the Clermont Arts and Recreation Center. A second public open-house meeting was held Thursday, March 7, at Bridgewater Middle School. The public was invited to view large maps depicting the general vicinity identified as the most optimal location to place the tollway that resulted in minimal impacts on surrounding proper-

ties and environments. The location is in the vicinity of Schofield Road, where there’s an existing interchange with State Road 429 by exit No. 13. CFX engineers have now narrowed down the options to four alternative alignments, down from the original 20 combinations presented in the first meeting. During the next month, project engineers will identify the recommended alignment according to public input, refine the details and conduct a financial analysis to get a cost estimate. The findings will then be presented at a public hearing at the end of June. At that hearing, the engineering team hopes to hear

from the public whether they should continue to move forward and fund the project, or wait another few years. Putnam said the project will not be funded using taxpayer dollars, as all Central Florida Expressway authority toll roads are planned, designed and built with toll dollars. “This is all toll funds, so if you don’t drive this road, you’re not paying for it” she said. “And all toll dollars paid into the CFX system stay on the CFX system. So all toll dollars are going right back into maintaining, operating and expanding the system as needed, like this Lake/Orange County connector.”

FOR MORE INFORMATION To view the project web page, visit bit. ly/2MdwCmH. And for more information, contact the Central Florida Expressway Authority at (407) 802-3210 or via email at lakeorangestudy@cfxway.com.

New Beginnings to close Winter Garden thrift store The nonprofit organization plans to close its Winter Garden thrift store, which opened four years ago. GABBY BAQUERO NEWS EDITOR

Winter Garden residents will soon notice an empty storefront in the Winter Garden Regional Shopping Center presently occupied by the New Beginnings of Central Florida thrift store. New Beginnings executive director Stephanie Harris announced that the store, located at 14041 W. Colonial Drive, will be closing its doors by the end of March. New Beginnings is a nonprofit organization that hosts multiple programs that provide hous-

ing, food, clothing, professional counseling and job opportunities to people in need in order to help them get their life in order. The Clermont-based nonprofit operates three thrift stores to help fund its programs but plans to close its Winter Garden location due to an inability to pay the recently increased costs for the leased space, Harris said. “Basically, the management company notified us they would have an increase in CAM (Common Area Maintenance) fees starting in January,” Harris said. “We’ve had a pretty good rapport with the leasing manage-

ment company of the property, so I appreciated that they were keeping an open dialogue with us and made us aware of that. ... But the cost in rental space in the community and, really, the entire Central Florida area has definitely been on the rise. So it doesn’t really come as a surprise, but we’re just not able to handle a large increase in the overhead costs of our retail operation.” The organization is currently searching for other retail spaces in either Winter Garden, Ocoee or Windermere. Its board members hope to find a retail space around 2,900 square feet with at a cost of no more than $5,000 a month, Harris added. New Beginnings is also brainstorming the possibility of opening a boutique instead of another thrift store, Harris shared. “Our retail operations are the primary source of our income for the ministry, so we just can’t afford it. The increase would make our overhead costs an additional $1,000 a month, and that’s just way too much. So we decided to look for a smaller space and try to operate a more efficient retail operation and maybe even change

the concept from the standard thrift store concept and instead open a boutique. It would be a New Beginnings Boutique that would focus more on newer items. We do get brand-new items donated to our store.” The thrift store is currently selling everything 50% off, and any leftover merchandise after its March 27 closing will be transported to its other two stores in Clermont and Kissimmee, Harris said. The volunteers and employees at the Winter Garden location also have been offered the opportunity to be transferred. The organization will continue to work with the West Orange Neighborhood Center, as well as local business and church partners to provide social services to the community, Harris emphasized. “West Orange has been very generous and supportive, and we’re happy to still be there to help serve that community,” she said. “And we know it’s going to work out one way or the other. We’re still going to be present in the community, we just hope we can find a way to keep our retail operations open.”

“West Orange has been very generous and supportive, and we’re happy to still be there to help serve that community.” Gabby Baquero

New Beginnings of Central Florida operates three thrift stores, with its other stores located in Clermont and Kissimmee.

Stephanie Harris, New Beginnings executive director

STORE LOCATIONS CLERMONT ADDRESS: 415 Citrus Tower Blvd., Clermont PHONE: (352) 2418500 WEBSITE: Fb.com/ NBThriftClermont KISSIMMEE ADDRESS: 8553 W. Highway 192, Kissimmee PHONE: (407) 7784750 WEBSITE: Fb.com/ NBThrift4C

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 21, 2019

Family receives son’s lost military shadow box AMY QUESINBERRY COMMUNITY EDITOR

Charlie Long never again expected to see the American flag that draped his son’s coffin or the military service ribbons that once were prominently displayed on the deceased airman’s dress uniform. But a combination of dedicated American Legion members, a little detective work and some restoration finesse has permanently reunited the Ohio father with his beloved son’s military shadow box, which was found in an abandoned rental property in Winter Garden a few months ago. The homeowner discovered the keepsake while cleaning out the shed at his rental home and knew this was something significant that should be with the family, so he dropped off the box and its contents at the American Legion Post 63, in Winter Garden. Post Commander Kurt Gies said he discovered the deceased man’s name — Charles Michael “Mike” Long Jr. — and the funeral home that handled the arrangements, and from there he was able to contact the father. On Thursday, March 14, in a tearful exchange at the Winter Garden post, Commander Gies returned the box to its rightful owners — the late Mike Long’s father, Charles “Charlie” Long Sr., and Mike’s son, Charles

Commission to consider office development CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

FERTILIZER USE

City leaders approved the first reading of an ordinance that will give the city authority to enforce Orange County’s fertilizer regulations. The city does not currently have any existing regulations pertaining to fertilizer use, according to city documents. Orange County’s fertilizer restrictions forbid the use of fertilizer within 15 feet of any wetland or surface waters, including lakes, ponds, streams, waterbodies and canals; as well as any impervious surface, public rightof-way, public property, stormwater drain, ditch or conveyance. The county also forbids the use of fertilizer containing phosphorus on turf or landscape plants, as well as fertilizer containing nitrogen – unless at least 50% of its nitrogen content is slow release. The regulations will be enforced via fines. A first violation will incur written notice; a second violation may be subject to a fine of $50, or $500 in the case of a commercial applicator; and any third or subsequent violation may be subject to a $100 fine, or $750 for commercial applicators.

“Trip” Long III. About 16 other family members were there, too — including his grandparents, aunts and uncles, his sister, his former fiancée and his 11-year-old son — from Ohio, Georgia and Orlando. STAFF SGT. LONG

Mike Long followed in his grandfather’s footsteps and joined the military. He served in the U.S. Air Force as a canine handler for the military police. He had been in the USAF for 13 years and was a staff sergeant stationed at Valdosta Air Force Base at the time of his death. Long, 30, was visiting family in Orlando when he was killed in a motorcycle crash on Sept. 3, 2007 — his father’s birthday. He was engaged to be married, and his fiancée was five weeks away from giving birth to a son he would never meet. Though Charlie Long was given full custody of his son when he was a toddler, it is military protocol to give the funeral flag to the mother. Long was grateful to receive another American flag and stamped copies of the shadow-box contents, but these precious mementos were lost in a 2012 house fire. The distraught father was left only with memories. But that would change seven years later when Charlie Long received the phone call from the

Air Force Staff Sgt. Mike Long

Winter Garden American Legion post. When the post received the original shadow box earlier this year, it was dusty and damaged and the interior was covered in mold. Tildenville Marketplace owners carefully restored the box and cleaned the contents. Gies intended to ship the box to Charlie Long, but the man was so grateful that strangers would go to such lengths to get it returned

Plans in works for Silver Star Road improvement project CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

thing else we could do to really improve the situation?’ So, after looking at the traffic, we didn’t see that it really warranted that kind of widening, but we knew that it needed something to slow down the traffic and accommodate the cars, trucks, bicyclists and pedestrians that will be coming through here. So that’s why we wanted to take a more complete-streets approach.” The resulting alternative for the future road-improvement project intends to improve traffic flow, eliminate back-ups at several intersections and improve the connectivity of the road network by:  constructing a roundabout at Bowness Avenue and Franklin Street; adding westbound and eastbound bicycle lanes;  providing left-turn lanes and medians on Silver Star Road east

of Ocoee-Apopka Road;  adding capacity to northbound Ocoee-Apopka Road;  using Bowness Avenue as the primary route connecting Franklin Street and Silver Star Road;  and extending the West Orange Trail into downtown Ocoee. The project starts on the east side of Bluford Avenue and was supposed to end at State Road 429, but it was extended a short way to East Crown Point Road to get that trail connection. “We’re keeping it as a two-lane road, but adding opportunities for those vehicles to turn left whereas now they don’t, which causes some backups and delays,” Lepp said. “And we’re also going to add sidewalks and extend the West Orange Trail into downtown Ocoee. So, the whole south side from Franklin Street will come in and that will bring you to downtown Ocoee, and it ends just past Bluford Avenue, but eventually,

to him that he decided to visit the American Legion in person. “I can’t put this into words,” Charlie Long said. “It means everything. That boy was my life.” Long and his wife, Donna, live full-time in their motorhome and will keep the newly discovered shadow box in their RV until it’s time to hand it down to their grandson. They have restored Mike’s motorcycle and one day will give that to Trip, as well. “To see the expression on Charlie Long’s face solidified that what we did was special,” Gies said. “The box and flag now look amazing. But more importantly, it’s back home where it belongs.” Trip’s mother has kept the memory of his father alive, and the boy knows his dad was an admirable man. He said he’s proud to be related to him. “It makes me feel like he did something great and I can one day be like that,” Trip said. The Longs are grateful to the American Legion and all the people involved in getting this special memory box returned to them. “Charlie couldn’t understand how people who didn’t know his son went to such an effort for him,” Gies said. “I told him that as a fellow veteran, we may not have ever met him, but we definitely know who he was.”

we’ll be looking at phase two in the future, and that could bring (the trail) all the way around.” The project is currently in the planning-study phase, which is expected to be completed by the end of summer. The project’s engineering team then will refine the design plans and establish funding sources. If the project is ultimately approved, it could be completed in about seven to 10 years, Lepp said. “After this, we have to figure out which part the (Florida Department of Transportation) is going to do, because most of it is a state road, and then which segments it will partner with the city on, and then it’s down to getting those sections done,” Lepp said. “So, we can go right into design and then hopefully construction. But that’s still, probably, a good seven to 10 years out, but it won’t have to be another 15 to 20 years out as it’s currently slated.” To view the project’s website and view the full concept plan of the recommended alternative, visit bit.ly/2CqMXlb.

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 / Matt Walsh, mwalsh@yourobserver.com Executive Editor / Michael Eng, meng@OrangeObserver.com Design Editor / Jessica Eng, jeng@OrangeObserver.com Community Editor / Amy Quesinberry, amyq@OrangeObserver.com News Editor / Gabby Baquero, gbaquero@OrangeObserver.com Sports Editor /Troy Herring, therring@OrangeObserver.com Black Tie Editor / Danielle Hendrix, dhendrix@OrangeObserver.com Staff Writer / Eric Gutierrez, egutierrez@OrangeObserver.com Advertising Executive Cyndi Gustafson, advertising@OrangeObserver.com Multimedia Advertising Executives / Ann Carpenter, acarpenter@OrangeObserver.com Terri Hope, thope@OrangeObserver.com Creative Services Tony Trotti, ttrotti@OrangeObserver.com Advertising Operations Manager / Allison Brunelle, abrunelle@OrangeObserver.com Customer Service Representatives Katie Rehm, krehm@orangeobserver.com

The West Orange Times & Observer is published once weekly, on Thursdays. The West Orange Times & Observer can be found in many commercial locations throughout West Orange County and at our office. If you wish to subscribe, visit our website, OrangeObserver.com, call (407) 656-2121 or visit our office, 661 Garden Commerce Parkway, Suite 180, Winter Garden.

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

SEND US YOUR NEWS

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

WEST ORANGE TIMES

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, 661 Garden Commerce Parkway, Winter Garden, Florida, 34787. Periodical postage paid at Winter Garden, Florida. POSTMASTER send address changes to the West Orange Times & Observer, 661 Garden Commerce Parkway, Suite 180, Winter Garden, Florida 34787.

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

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

OrangeObserver.com MetroPlan Orlando and Ocoee seek to provide a lower-cost alternative to improving Silver Star Road and extending the West Orange Trail to downtown Ocoee.

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 21, 2019

Landeavor assures no changes to Oakland Park The new developer of the neighborhood, which lies in both Oakland and Winter Garden, is vowing to stick to the agreement signed by previous owners of the project. AMY QUESINBERRY COMMUNITY EDITOR

When the town of Oakland entered into an agreement in 2006 with Castle & Cooke — the original developers of the Oakland Park community — town officials were specific about what was and wasn’t allowed in the Oakland portion of the development. There were rules on trees and curbs, setbacks and fences, lot size and a host of other requirements. Crescent Communities took over as Oakland Park’s developer in 2013, and Landeavor purchased it from Crescent in September. After the purchase, Oakland Mayor Kathy Stark called on Paul Luck, the state division manager of Landeavor, to host several community meetings to update residents on the construction schedule, as well as the agreements, which still are in place. Luck and Town Manager Steve Koontz facilitated a meeting March 11 in Oakland, with close to 50 people in attendance. Many of the residents live in the Winters Landing subdivision,

Courtesy

which will connect to Oakland Park’s final phase. Concerns of traffic, landscape buffering, historic trees, fencing and road paving were brought to Luck’s attention, and he addressed each one. To alleviate traffic congestion along Oakland Avenue, Landeavor will pave Motamassek Road from Oakland Avenue to West Colonial Drive and Starr Street south to Oakland Avenue. This work will be done when the 169th building permit is pulled, or Jan. 1, 2023, whichever occurs first. Luck said many of the trees removed from the neighborhood have been remnants of the old citrus groves. In Phase 5, which is

the cleared land south of Oakland Avenue, more trees were saved than just those that were marked. The community was planned with open spaces and pocket parks to complement the green initiatives of Oakland Park. “We abandoned a connector road and built a new one to save a heritage tree,” Luck said. He said he has spent much time with longtime resident and citrusman Maury Boyd to learn Oakland’s history and find out what is important to the residents. Residents whose homes along Macchi Avenue back up to the final phase of the project have T:10” long been anxious about the type

of buffer that will separate them from Oakland Park. An eight-foot privacy fence — white PVC with a decorative pattern at the top — will be installed and the Oakland Park Homeowners Association will maintain it, Luck said. A big point of contention is the connector road between Winters Landing and Oakland Park. Winters Landing residents fear an increase in vehicle traffic in their quiet neighborhood. However, Luck said the good news is that by connecting the two subdivisions, a direct golf-cart path will be created so folks can ride into downtown Winter Garden for shopping and dining. According to Luck, there are plans to add an establishment, such as a wine bar or restaurant, in Phase 5. Luck said his company has spent months correcting unacceptable issues that the previous owner left behind. He will continue emailing a weekly developer’s update to homeowners. The 258-acre Oakland Park is the first community of its kind, with properties in both Winter Garden and Oakland. It has nearly a mile of lakefront property, has onsite access to the West Orange Trail and is a certified green development. About one-third of the homes will be in the town of Oakland.

OAKLAND PARK FUTURE PHASES  Phase 5, south of Oakland Avenue, Winter Garden — 113 lots, to be completed in the fall  Phase 6A, near Lake Apopka on the north side of the development, Oakland — 38 lots, to be completed in the fall  Phases 6B and 7, Oakland — approximately 231 lots are projected in these two phases. Development is expected to start in December in Phase 6B, to the south of 6A, and in December 2020 in Phase 7, on the west side of the project.

Give your money a raise Make your money work harder by earning higher interest rates. Talk to a banker for more details. Offer expires March 22, 2019. Platinum Savings Account

Fixed Rate CD

2.10%

2.60%

Annual Percentage Yield for 12 months1

Guaranteed fixed rate with new money deposits of at least $25,000 for an 11-month term.

T:8”

Enjoy a special interest rate for 12 months with new money deposits of at least $25,000 and a minimum daily account balance of $25,000 or more.

Annual Percentage Yield for 11 months2

Both accounts are FDIC-insured up to the maximum allowable limit. Platinum Savings offer available in CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, MD, NJ, NY, SC and VA. Fixed Rate CD offer available in AL, AZ, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, MD, NJ, NM, NV, NY, PA, SC and VA. Portfolio by Wells Fargo® customers are eligible to receive an additional interest rate bonus on these accounts.3

Investment and Insurance Products: Are not Insured by FDIC or any Federal Government Agency

May Lose Value

Are not a Deposits of or Guaranteed by a Bank

301289-1

1. To qualify for this offer, you must have a new or existing Platinum Savings account and enroll the account in this offer between 01/21/2019 and 03/22/2019. This offer is subject to change at any time, without notice. This offer is available only to Platinum Savings customers in the following states: CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, MD, NJ, NY, SC and VA. In order to earn the Special Interest Rate of 2.08% (Special Rate), you must deposit $25,000 in new money (from sources outside of Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., or its affiliates) to the enrolled savings account and maintain a minimum daily account balance of $25,000 throughout the term of this offer. The corresponding Annual Percentage Yield (APY) for this offer is 2.10%. The Special Rate will be applied to the enrolled savings account for a period of 12 months, starting on the date the account is enrolled in the offer. However, for any day during that 12 month period that the daily account balance is less than the $25,000 minimum, the Special Rate will not apply and the interest rate will revert to the standard interest rate applicable to your Platinum Savings account. As of 12/10/2018, the standard interest rate and APY for a Platinum Savings account in CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, MD, NJ, NY, SC and VA with an account balance of $0.01 to $99,999.99 is 0.03% (0.03% APY) and with an account balance of $100,000 and above is 0.05% (0.05% APY). Each tier shown reflects the current minimum daily collected balance required to obtain the applicable APY. Interest is compounded daily and paid monthly. The amount of interest earned is based on the daily collected balances in the account. Upon the expiration of the 12 month promotional period, standard interest rates apply. Minimum to open a Platinum Savings account is $25. A monthly service fee of $12 applies in any month the account falls below a $3,500 minimum daily balance. Fees may reduce earnings. Interest rates are variable and subject to change without notice. Wells Fargo may limit the amount you deposit to a Platinum Savings account to an aggregate of $1 million. Offer not available to Private Banking, Wealth, Business Banking or Wholesale customers. 2. Annual Percentage Yield (APY) is effective for accounts opened between 01/21/2019 and 03/22/2019. The 11-month New Dollar CD special requires a minimum of $25,000 brought to Wells Fargo from sources outside of Wells Fargo Bank N.A., or its affiliates to earn the advertised APY. Public Funds and Wholesale accounts are not eligible for this offer. APY assumes interest remains on deposit until maturity. Interest is compounded daily. Payment of interest on CDs is based on term: For terms less than 12 months (365 days), interest may be paid monthly, quarterly, semi-annually, or at maturity (the end of the term). For terms of 12 months or more, interest may be paid monthly, quarterly, semi-annually, or annually. A fee for early withdrawal will be imposed and could reduce earnings on this account. Special Rates are applicable to the initial term of the CD only. At maturity, the Special Rate CD will automatically renew for a term of 6 months, at the interest rate and APY in effect for CDs on renewal date not subject to a Special Rate, unless the Bank has notified you otherwise. Due to the new money requirement, accounts may only be opened at your local branch. Wells Fargo reserves the right to modify or discontinue the offer at any time without notice. Offer cannot be combined with any other consumer deposit offer. Minimum new money deposit requirement of at least $25,000 is for this offer only and cannot be transferred to another account to qualify for any other consumer deposit offer. If you wish to take advantage of another consumer deposit offer requiring a minimum new money deposit, you will be required to do so with another new money deposit as stated in the offer requirements and qualifications. Offer cannot be reproduced, purchased, sold, transferred, or traded. 3. The Portfolio by Wells Fargo program has a $30 monthly service fee, which can be avoided when you have one of the following qualifying balances: $25,000 or more in qualifying linked bank deposit accounts (checking, savings, CDs, FDIC-insured IRAs) or $50,000 or more in any combination of qualifying linked banking, brokerage (available through Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC) and credit balances (including 10% of mortgage balances, certain mortgages not eligible). If the Portfolio by Wells Fargo relationship is terminated, the bonus interest rate on all eligible savings accounts, and discounts or fee waivers on other products and services, will discontinue and revert to the Bank’s then-current applicable rate or fee. For bonus interest rates on time accounts, this change will occur upon renewal. If the Portfolio by Wells Fargo relationship is terminated, the remaining unlinked Wells Fargo Portfolio Checking or Wells Fargo Prime Checking account will be converted to another checking product or closed.

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 21, 2019

AdventHealth breaks ground on Winter Garden hospital AdventHealth Winter Garden’s 100-bed pavilion will be the only inpatient hospital in the city when it opens. DANIELLE HENDRIX BLACK TIE EDITOR

Danielle Hendrix

AdventHealth and city of Winter Garden staff came together to symbolically break ground on AdventHealth’s new, 100-bed inpatient pavilion.

Garden CEO Carl Dupper. “At AdventHealth our goal is to bring wholeness to the communities we serve. We do this by providing considerate, loving, compassionate care to you and your family — care that’s also close to home. We’re extremely proud of the work we’ve done in Winter Garden to provide this type of care to all of West Orange County.” This expansion is expected to create about 700 jobs, with an average annual wage of more than $60,000. Winter Garden District 4 Commissioner Colin Sharman said the economic impact from the first phase of AHWG was 200 employees and the opening of the medical-office building has since

added onto that. The AHWG emergency department staff has seen tens of thousands of patients since the facility’s opening in 2016, according to AdventHealth, and by the end of 2019 it is projected to have treated more than 100,000 patients total. “The construction of the (newest) expansion is going to bring even more jobs, and the permanent facility will have more permanent employees, making a big impact on the community and our economic situation here in Winter Garden,” Sharman said. AdventHealth staff also is looking forward to another important aspect of the impact its services will have on the community —

bringing health care closer to home. Staff said that when residents have health care that is close to home, it is more convenient for both patients and families. “We take care of patients every day that need services that are outside of our emergency department and beyond what we can provide,” Dr. Miles Bennett, medical director of the emergency department. “Until now those patients unfortunately had to be transferred to another facility. Once this inpatient pavilion opens, we’ll be able to treat those patients close to home rather than having to transfer out of our community.” Overall, Dupper said, he and his

staff are looking forward to better serving the health care needs for residents of both Winter Garden and West Orange County. “When patients come to our emergency department, we want them to be able to get their full care in Winter Garden and not have to go to Orlando or another center of care,” Dupper said. “This is where you live, work, play, eat, sleep, and this is where you should also get your health care. We’re excited to join you in your health care journey and we’re going to serve you well in the years to come.”

299619-1

About two years down the road, Winter Garden residents needing inpatient health care won’t have to leave the city limits to access it. AdventHealth broke ground Thursday, March 14, on the newest phase of its medical complex across from Winter Garden Village at Fowler Groves. When AdventHealth Winter Garden’s new, 100-bed inpatient pavilion opens, it also will be the city’s only inpatient hospital. “Winter Garden is a very fastgrowing community, and we have a very bright future,” said Winter Garden Mayor John Rees. “The presence of AdventHealth is an important part of that future. … For the first time in a long time, when this hospital opens, residents of Winter Garden will be able to access an extensive range of services without leaving our city.” The s e v e n - s t o r y, 300,000-square-foot building complements the existing 24-bed emergency room and medical office building also on site. “This is an exciting day — it’s exciting for AdventHealth and it’s very exciting for Winter Garden,” said AdventHealth Winter

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 21, 2019

Oakland approves dog-friendly dining, alcohol ordinances When restaurants start making their way to Oakland, the town will be ready with rules for dining with pups.

There are no restaurants or registered bars in the town of Oakland, but the town is getting some rules in place for when the commercial development arrives. The Oakland Town Commission approved at its March 12 meeting the first reading of one ordinance that creates a local exemption to the Food and Drug Administration’s food code for dogs in designated outdoor areas of public food-service establishments and another that amends the town’s alcoholic beverage regulations. The second reading and public hearing for both ordinances is scheduled for Tuesday, March 26. DOG-FRIENDLY RESTAURANTS

“It’s symbolic at this point,” Town Manager Steven Koontz said of the doggy-dining ordinance, as it’s referred to by the West Orange Chamber of Commerce, which initiated the request of all West Orange County municipalities. Restaurants will not be required to apply for the exemption, Koontz said. It is a voluntary procedure for those wanting to provide the option for their patrons. The ordinance will allow for outdoor dining only, and establishments will have to meet the

requirements and obtain the appropriate permits. ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE REGULATIONS

“This gives us an even playing field with those around us,” Assistant Town Manager Jeff Richardson said of the amendments to the alcohol ordinance. The changes will put Oakland in line with the town of Windermere’s rules regarding the sale of alcohol. Currently, Oakland has three convenience stores that sell beer, wine and liquor. The proposed hours of sale, consumption or serving are from 7 a.m. to midnight seven days a week. The only exception is Jan. 1, when alcoholic drinks can be sold, consumed or served until 1 a.m. At present, the town of Oakland allows alcoholic beverages to be sold or served between 2 p.m. and midnight on Sunday and between 8 a.m. and midnight Monday through Saturday. In Windermere, alcohol can be sold or served between 7 a.m. and midnight every day of the week. Winter Garden stipulates alcohol can be sold or served between 7 a.m. and 2 a.m. seven days a week. Ocoee allows sales between 8 a.m. and 2 a.m. and the service of alcohol from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. daily.

SATURDAY

APRIL 13

Bradenton Area Convention Center

1 Haben Blvd. Palmetto, FL

9AM–3PM Doors open at 8am www.neurochallenge.org

FREE EVENT Registration required. Online registration is strongly encouraged at www.neurochallenge.org Call 941-926-6413 for more information.

The Parkinson’s Expo will feature presentations from medical experts on treatment options, the latest in research, managing the non-motor aspects of the disease, and more.

This event is presented to the community at no charge thanks to the following partners: Exclusive Presenting Sponsor

Platinum Sponsor

A complete listing of speakers and topics is available on the Neuro Challenge website, neurochallenge.org

Diamond Sponsors

Gold Sponsors

Silver Sponsors Acadia • Bioclinica • Medtronic • Rough & Ready Slater-Kassan Charitable Fund of the Manatee Community Foundation SYNOVUS • Trulieve

300761-1

COMMUNITY EDITOR

302055-1

AMY QUESINBERRY

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 21, 2019

Temporary fire station to open near Avalon, Porter road The fire station will benefit nearby homeowners who now can qualify for lower home insurance premiums. GABBY BAQUERO NEWS EDITOR

Orange County is opening a temporary fire station in the Horizon West community at the corner of Avalon and Porter roads. The station, named Horizon West Fire Station 44, will be based in a manufactured building on the campus of the recently constructed Orlando Health Emergency Room and Medical Pavilion, according to an Orange County District newsletter. The temporary station, which cost the county $500,000 to construct, will open in April and serve the surrounding community until the permanent site for Station 44 is built. The permanent site, which is projected to open in Fiscal Year 2022-23, is to be located on Reams Road, south of Summerlake Park Boulevard, the newsletter states. According to Orange County, a 2015 Fire Station Location Study determined that a new fire station was needed in the Horizon West area to service the rapidly growing population and development. The nearest stations to the temporary site for Fire Station 44 are Station 34 at 4000 S. State Road 535, and Station 35, located at 7435 Winter Garden Vineland Road. Since October, Rescue Ambulance 44 has been located at the Orlando Health campus in Horizon West from 9 a.m. to 9

HOME INSURANCE PREMIUM FACTORS  Year your home was built  Materials used to construct your home  Home conditions  Local crime rate  Average building costs in the area  Size of your home  Location, if it’s in an area prone to severe weather  Proximity to fire station or fire hydrant  Claims history  Credit score

p.m., to reduce response times to the Horizon West community. The current travel time ranges between seven to nine minutes, but Orange County Fire Rescue expects the new temporary station will reduce travel times by approximately 50%. Fire Station 44 will benefit property owners in the area paying residential or commercial insurance because proximity to a fire station influences insurance premiums. However, residential and commercial properties located within a five-mile radius of the new temporary station will be classified as ISO 1, which is the highest score. As such, property owners are encouraged to contact their insurance companies to provide notice of the temporary station’s location and request a premium discount.

302284-1

302281-1

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

301283-1

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 21, 2019

LWES student initiates eyeglass project The Lake Whitney Elementary fourth-grader nearly doubled her goal of collecting 125 pairs of glasses for people in need. AMY QUESINBERRY COMMUNITY EDITOR

PROJECT RIGHT TO SIGHT

Lions Clubs International continues to fight blindness with its Project Right to Sight. Through this project, founded in 1990, eyecare professionals provide eye exams; and eyeglasses are collected, reconditioned and recycled to homeless and uninsured people in Central Florida. Glasses also are provided for vision projects around the world. In Central Florida alone, nearly 33,000 pairs of glasses and cases were sorted last month for Project Right to Sight.

295674-1

Amy Quesinberry

Chloe McCarron collected two boxes full of glasses and cases for her monthlong “One Pair Per Child” service project.

Chloe McCarron has been recognized by the Winter Garden Lions Club for her role in establishing an eyeglass-collection project at her school. The 10-year-old Lake Whitney Elementary School student set up a donation box in the front office, and a flier went home with students asking for used prescription and reading eyeglasses. She was hoping to collect 125 pairs — but what she received was nearly double that number. A total of 231 pairs were collected in a one-month period. Principal Beth Prince was in awe of Chloe and the overexceeding results of her initiative. “She wrote a proposal and submitted it to the (School Advisory Council),” she said. “The SAC unanimously voted that we were going to partner with the Lions Club. We’re very proud of Chloe.” Members of the Winter Garden club were on the Lake Whitney campus Thursday, March 14, to present two awards to Chloe during the school’s morning television announcements. Lions Al White, Linda Lucero and Cathy Tapley gave Chloe a certificate of appreciation from the Lions Club; and Steven Van Varick, representing Project Right to Sight — which will receive the glasses Chloe collected — gave her another certificate from that organization. Chloe received a stuffed lion and a pin, as well.

Blair M. Johnson

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

300398-1

• Wills/Advance Directives • Real estate: Contracts, Closings, Short Sales, • Estates Deed in Lieu • Corporation/LLC When it comes to your to-do • Commercial transactions • And other matters list, put your future first. • Landlord/Tenant Proudly serving OrangefiCounty for over 36 years. To find out how getWest your nancial When it comes toto your to-do www.blairjohnsonlaw.com goals track, contact list, puton your future first.your Edward

Attendees will marvel and indulge in a variety of beer, wine and spirits along with many scrumptious tastes and bites from some of the best local restaurants, bars, caterers and breweries that West Orange County has to offer! Best Fest's festive block party style feel boasts more than 60 tantalizing vendors for your enjoyment.

Jones financial advisor today.

To find out how to get your financial goals on track, contact your Edward When it comes to your When your to-do Jonesitficomes nancialtoadvisor today.

to-do list, put your first. future first. list, putfuture your

Thursday, April 11th 5:00 pm - 8:30 pm

Open to the Public - Rain or Shine 150 N. Lakeshore Dr. Along the shore of Starke Lake in Ocoee

To find out how to get your financial goals on track, contact your Edward To find out how to get Jones financial advisor today.

your financial goals on track, contact your Edward Jones financial advisor today.

407-654-4915

302955-1

FAP-1966D-A

FAP-1966D-A FAP-1966D-A

www.edwardjones.com

Financial Financial AdvisorAdvisor www.edwardjones.com www.edwardjones.com 17301 Pagonia Road Ste Member SIPC Member SIPC Member SIPC 17301 Pagonia Road Ste 17301 Pagonia Road Ste 100 100 100 Clermont, Clermont, FL 34711 FL 34711 407-654-4915 Clermont, FL 34711 407-654-4915

300436-1

Bruce Young, CFP®, CRPC®

Financial Bruce Young, Advisor CFP®, CRPC® Bruce Young, CFP®, CRPC®

4Rivers Smokehouse Bailey Bleus Black Rock Bar & Grill Bruster s Real Ice Cream Cathee Brady Catering Chick-fil-A Ocoee and Winter Garden Cracker Barrel Crooked Can Brewing Company Disney Springs Mac N Cheese Food Truck Ellie Lou's Brews & BBQ Hagan O'Reilly's Irish Pub and Restaurant House Blend Café Kings Bowling, Dining & Entertainment Jeremiah s Italian Ice LaBoucherie Restaurant Grille and Lounge Maestro's at Sonata West Ms. Bee's Popcorn & Candy Shoppe Pammie's Sammies Pilars Martini RusTeak Restaurant & Wine Bar SeaWorld Orlando Spice Affair Table Top Catering TooJay's Restaurant and Deli - Ocoee Westerly s at MetroWest Golf Club. New restaurants added each week!

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 21, 2019

FOUNDA ION ACADEMY Building a Foundation for Life

2018 Orlando Style Magazine “Voted the Best College Prep Christian School”

O AND ’ S B E ST

Pre-K - 12th Grade

PRIVATE

20 CHRISTIAN 18 SCHOOL

Did you know? The Class of 2018 earned more than $4 million in Academic and Athletic Scholarships 70+ Dual Enrollment & AP Course Options Available 24 SPORTS Teams + Lacrosse, Swimming & Weightlifting VIBRANT Organizations, CLUBS AND EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

FoundationAcademy.net | 407.877.2774

30 OPEN HOUSE EVENT 10AM RSVP at FoundationAcademy.net/RSVP or Scan now to secure your spot!

302945-1

MAR.

Non-Profit Dental Program Makes an Impact in West Orange Hospital Emergency Departments Winter Garden, FL (March 14, 2019) – Uninsured visits to West Orange County hospitals for dental-related conditions have decreased due to the formation of the West Orange Dental Alliance (WODA). The non-profit dental program was formed and funded by the West Orange Health Alliance in 2017 with the mission of offering a solution for affordable dental access, especially for individuals who frequent hospital emergency departments due to dental pain. “Most patients with dental pain and no insurance head straight to hospital emergency departments,” said Tiffany Williams, executive director of WODA. “The hospitals provide temporary relief and advise patients to follow up with a dentist. But, due to the lack of affordable dental clinics, most return to the ED for another round.” Since opening in 2017, uninsured visits to Orlando Health – Health Central Hospital due to dental pain have decreased a total of 15 percent; down seven percent in 2017 and down eight percent in 2018. Orlando Health – Health Central is one of several hospitals in the West Orange Healthcare District that has an alliance with WODA. WODA also has partnerships with Orlando Health Dr. P. Phillips Hospital, Orlando Health Emergency Room and Medical Pavilion – Horizon West as well as the Advent Health hospital in Apopka and ER in Winter Garden. Through the partnerships, WODA has been able to help uninsured, low income residents by offering dental care at no charge to patients.

Pictured left to right: West Orange Health Alliance board members: Judy Noble, Chelsea Johnson, Suzanee Fiquette, Dr. Ben Burris, Lynn Walker-Wright, Amy Louge, Tiffany Williams (Executive Director), Dr. Hector Briceno, Dr. Deborah Titus. Picture courtesy of Rosebud Photography

“The West Orange Dental Alliance is approaching its two-year anniversary this year and is looking forward to impacting this often-overlooked issue through the continued support of the West Orange Community,” added Mrs. Williams. For more information about the West Orange Dental Alliance, visit www.wodentalalliance.org. Additional information about the West Orange Health Alliance Board can be found at www.wohealthalliance.org. 302987-1

THURSDAY, MARCH 21, 2019

ARTS + CULTURE Garden Theatre artistic director retiring Rob Winn Anderson will be retiring from the Garden Theatre after being involved with it for more than a decade. ERIC GUTIERREZ STAFF WRITER

After more than decade of dedication to the Garden Theatre, Artistic Director Rob Winn Anderson will be retiring from his position with the downtown Winter Garden theater at the end of 2018-19 season. Prior to joining the Garden Theatre, Anderson, 60, worked in theater and the performance industry around the country for more than 23 years. He joined the Garden Theatre in 2008 as the writer and director of “Curtain Up,” a gala event that honored the opening of the then newly renovated and restored theater. “Curtain Up” featured talent from the local community, as well as Broadway star Davis Gaines. He served as consulting artistic director for about three years before becoming the Garden Theatre’s first, full-time artistic director in 2017. “I’ve been doing this for 47 years,” Anderson said about his career. “I started working professionally since I was 13, and I have loved it, but it’s time for me to move on and just see what might be next for me.” The vision Anderson had for the Garden Theatre took shape after he took on the role of artistic director. Anderson has been an integral part of the growth and development of the Garden Theatre throughout his 11-year tenure. He’s credited with helping steer the theater into regional prominence and establishing it as one of the leading theaters in Central Florida, according to a media release. “Rob is a remarkable collaborator, and we are profoundly grateful to him for his leadership, passion and dedication,” Executive Director Nao Tsurumaki said. “Over the past decade, he has dedicated his creative life to the Garden and has cultivated a growing community of artists, audiences and supporters. I’m so grateful for his contribution, and we’re excited to celebrate his achievements and legacy.” In his time with the Garden Theatre, Anderson said his proudest accomplishment would be raising the level of the theater’s production value. Today, the Garden Theatre not only pulls from the wealth of local talent in Orange County, but also it attracts talent from around the country. “The Garden has grown in many different ways,” Anderson said. “It started out, really, as just a booking house for other theaters to use (for) concerts and dance shows, and then they started to feel like producing some theater of their own. I feel like my biggest achievement — my biggest contribution — has been raising the production values, raising the quality of the shows that happen at the Garden and bringing in designers and different directors who really have helped us raise the

Courtesy

Rob Winn Anderson first joined the Garden Theatre in 2008 when he was invited to write and direct the theater’s opening gala, “Curtain Up.”

standards (at the Garden Theatre). … We’ve received just an influx of actors and designers who wanted to work with us from all over the country. We use people from all over.” Although attracting talent from around the country has been a benefit to the Garden Theatre, Anderson added that casting has always been difficult over the years. “Casting is the biggest challenge,” Anderson said. “We have a very large talent pool in Orlando, however, they don’t really come to Orlando to work in theater. They come to Orlando for the attractions, so that big pool isn’t really open to us the way that it would appear that it is. Retaining casting and retaining that talent all the way up until opening is probably the biggest challenge.” The growth of the Garden Theatre did more than just bring top-quality talent and shows to the Winter Garden community. The theater has become a destination for visitors and tourists, and it has even played a part in the revitalization of the downtown area, Anderson said.

“When it (Garden Theatre) reopened, Plant Street was pretty much a ghost town,” Anderson said. “There were only a couple of shops opened. Everything else was closed or boarded up, and the Garden Theatre is really responsible for the revival of (downtown) Winter Garden because businesses started to come in. Everything that (downtown) is now, the theater is truly at the heart of that.” Anderson has been able to produce some of his own original work with the Garden Theatre during his years of involvement. The theater debuted the premiere of Anderson’s musical, “Christmas by Committee,” and the premiere of his play, “A Tennessee Walk,” which was later produced at Southern Appalachian Repertory Theatre and at Jacksonville State University. “The Garden has been really gracious in that they have produced some of my original work,” Anderson said. “I’ve had three different things produced on the Garden stage that I wrote, and I would say (seeing) ‘A Tennessee Walk,’ which was in last season, … was a really great moment — (seeing) that play

come to life on stage.” The curtain may be closing on Anderson’s time with the Garden Theatre, but he urges the theater to keep moving forward with the progress that’s been made. “The Garden is very brave,” Anderson said. “My only message is just to continue to be brave. I’ve always said that that was one of the most attractive and important things about the Garden Theatre is that they are brave.”

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 21, 2019

300457-1

Stilt-walker Mike Weakley handed out green beads to guests.

General Dermatology & General Skin Examinations

Now located at 1067 S. Clarke Road, Ocoee FL 34761

407-521-3550 Office hours M-F by appointment Accepting new patients

302884-1

Specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of skin cancer

Celtic Craze

ocals packed the Plant Street Market in downtown Winter Garden for the Crooked Can Brewing Company’s fourth annual Celtic Festival March 15 to 17 in honor of St. Patrick’s Day. Attendees enjoyed food from Plant Street Market vendors, a selection of craft beers from Crooked Can and live music and dance performances throughout the weekend. The family-friendly event also included face-painting, a puppet show and a play area for children. –ERIC GUTIERREZ

Personalized care with compassion and excellence.

Office Hours:

Wellington Esquea, PA-C • Dr. Bindu Parekattil Dr. Shaista Usmani • Dr. Shahid Usmani

Mon-Fri 8AM-5PM Saturday Mornings 8-12 By Appointment Only 1551 Boren Drive, Suite A Ocoee, FL 34761

Victoria Van Arnam, aka “The Lady Victoria,” played some songs of Ireland on the hammered dulcimer.

Se Habla Español

Call 407-395-2037 • www.OcoeeKidsDocs.com

Keanu, left, and Kai Mahabir-Singh showed off their matching painted dinosaurs.

Todd Nichols played Irish music on his bagpipes as the Celtic Fest began.

300480-1

Opening soon!

13599 West colonial Drive Winter Garden (407) 554-3206

John and Erin Baughman enjoyed a cup of Irish red ale.

CAPTAIN MARVEL

PG13

FIVE FEET APART

PG13

FRI-SAT: 1:00P 4:00P 7:00P 9:45P SUN: 1:00P 4:00P 7:00P MON-THURS: 4:00P 7:00P FRI-SAT: 12:50P 3:50P 6:50P 9:50P SUN: 12:50P 3:50P 6:50P MON-THURS: 3:50P 6:50P

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

www.westorange5.com

407-877-8111 “Homemade Sandwiches and Snacks Available”

Chloe Bandomo and Gabriel Bandomo enjoyed the daddy-daughter dance.

Jimmy Dunn clowned around with Taylor and Darby Dunn.

Firm family foundation

he daughters and dads of Foundation Academy enjoyed a special night at the masquerade ball Friday, March 8, at Tanner Hall, in Winter Garden. Close to 250 guests enjoyed dinner and snacks, dancing on the packed dance floor and getting silly at the photo booth.

–AMY QUESINBERRY

MAGUIRE RD.

W. HWY 50

General $8.50 Child (2-12) $6.50 Senior (60+) $6.50 Matinee (before 5pm) $6.50 3D is an additional $2.00 per ticket

THESE SHOWTIMES FOR:

FRIDAY, MAR 22 - thru THURSDAY, MAR 28 THE BEST MOVIE VALUE IN WO COUNTY

THURSDAY, MARCH 21, 2019

HOW TO TRAIN DRAGON HIDDE PG13

FRI-SAT: 1:30P 4:30P 7:30P 9:50P SUN: 1:30P 4:30P 7:30P MON-THURS: 4:30P 7:30P

MADEA FAMILY FUNERAL PG13

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

FRI-SAT: 1:20P 4:20P 7:20P 9:55P SUN: 1:20P 4:20P 7:20P MON-THURS: 4:20P 7:20P

WONDER PARK

FRI-SAT: 1:40P 4:40P 7:40P 9:45P SUN: 1:40P 4:40P 7:40P MON-THURS: 4:40P 7:40P

DUMBO

THURS: 7:10P

R PG13 PG

300465-1

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

BR DENTAL 407-905-9965 www.drbrianramski.com

Now Offering

Kaitlyn Smith looked glamorous in her mask, and Shaun Smith sported a serious look.

302783-1

Ayva Jones, left, and Cristina Beltran found the perfect hats.

213 S Dillard St., Suite 140 Winter Garden, FL 34787 Office Hours: Mon: 8-4 Tues-Thurs: 8-12 & 1-5 Fri: 7-1 Call Today for Your Appointment!

300418-1

✳ Dental Implants ✳ Sedation Dentistry ✳ Cosmetic Clear Braces ✳ Pain Free Injections ✳ Accepting New Patients

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 21, 2019

YOU SHOULDN’T HAVE TO FIGHT OVER YOUR PROPERTY RIGHTS

If you buy a home without getting owner’s title insurance, you’re taking major legal and financial risks. Protect your property rights with help from Treasure Title.

Suite 200B in the TD Bank Building

12200 W. Colonial Dr. Winter Garden, FL 34787 office 407.654.8811 • cell 407.758.4479 www.treasuretitle.com • info@treasuretitle.com

300424-1

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

YOU SHOULDN’T HAVE TO FIGHT OVER YOUR PROPERTY RIGHTS

First-grader Roma Raval, 7, hung around on the rock-climbing wall.

Barracudas celebrate spring season

If you buy a home without getting owner’s title insurance, you’re taking major legal and financial risks. Protect your property rights with help from a trusted ALTA member.

T Aldo Mejias, left, and his son, Sebastian, enjoyed the Turbo Tub ride.

hornebrooke Elementary Barracudas ran, bounced and played at the school’s annual spring carnival Friday, March 8. Students and other guests enjoyed a variety of games, bounce houses and food. Parents and guests also got to partake in a prize raffle and in a silent auction.

— ERIC GUTIERREZ

Steven J. Sober, DMD

General Family Dentistry www.stevensoberdmd.com

Accepting new patients

Dillard St.

50/Colonial Dr

Daniels Rd.

Located in the Windtree Professional Center (Behind KFC)

Windtree Professional Center

KFC Wendy’s

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

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

407-877-6666

300422-1

Serving the West Orange & East Lake County Area Residents for 32 years!

300433-1

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

Bussing Now Offered!

E S U O H N E OP Join Us At 9:00 am

April 4

NOW ENROLLING

R S V P T O D AY ! 4 0 7 . 2 0 6 . 8 6 0 2 • t h e f i r s t a c a d e m y. o r g A Christ-Centered Preschool to Grade 12 College Preparatory School • Definitively Christ-Centered, Distinctly College-Prep

301281-1

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

Fifth-grader Breyton Potts, 11, smiled with excitement as he reached the top of the rock-climbing wall.

THURSDAY, MARCH 21, 2019

Springtime celebration

Teachers Heather Whaling, left, and Sharon Roznowski waited in jail for students to bail them out.

Third-grader Daniela Leslie, 8, was all smiles as she climbed the obstacle wall.

— ERIC GUTIERREZ

Pat Sharr Realty

BUYING A HOME? SELLING YOUR HOME?

CALL ME TODAY! 407-656-7947

PAT SHARR

Broker/Owner

MultiMillion Dollar Producer

patsharr@aol.com

www.patsharr.com

407-948-1326

“LET ME HELP YOU MAKE YOUR DREAMS COME TRUE”

A HONEY OF A BUY!!!

WELCOME HOME***WATERFRONT***IN-LAW SUITE***OPEN DECK ON 2ND FLOOR OVERLOOKING THE GORGEOUS WATERFRONT CANAL, TO THE RIGHT IS STARKE LAKE TO THE LEFT IS LAKE PRIMA VISTA, STATELY TREES AND WILD LIFE!!! CUSTOM BUILT 2 STORY, 4Bdrm., 3 Ba. HOME!!! Formal living room, spacious formal dining room EAT-IN KITCHEN complete w/ stainless steel appliances, bay window breakfast nook overlooking the WATER!!! The FAMILY ROOM is conveniently located next to the kitchen and is highlighted by the wood burning FIREPLACE, also features glass doors leading to the open PATIO and the landscaped fenced yard with PRIVATE dock.The IN-LAW SUITE consist of a LARGE bedroom, bath, LIVING room and KITCHEN complete with APPLIANCES and PRIVATE open patio.Upstairs you will find the Master bedroom/master bath and the other 2 bedrooms centered around the guest bath. The Master Bedroom has French doors leading to the large open deck, look out over the manicured lawn, stately trees on all sides and the lakes. The Patio also features a stairway leading downstairs to the patio on the first floor. This home was painted in the last year also features 2 air conditioning units.Make your appointment to see this home today!!! Asking Only $359,900

JUST LISTED!!!

ING

END

LE P

WINTER GARDEN... 3 BDRM. 2 BA.HONEY STOP THE CAR!!! THIS IS THE POT OF GOLD AT THE END OF THE RAINBOW...Everything has been done, freshly painted inside, exterior paint 6 months ago, Master Bedroom and bath are only 4 years old and features shower/granite vanity. No CARPET in this jewel all LAMINATE WOOD flooring throughout except for bath areas. The living room is a cheerful center for everyday living and no hemmed in feeling... Convenient Dining with only steps to the kitchen! Unforgettable ULTA modern kitchen, beautiful CABINETS and plenty of them, ALL APPLIANCES are STAYING! Just off the kitchen is the laundry room complete with WASHER and DRYER!!! Open the laundry room door to the back porch where you will enjoy the PRIVACY of the VINYL FENCED back yard with access to the OVERSIZED carport and storage/workshop complete w/electric. Just look at some of the upgrades...ROOF IS 4 YRS., DOUBLE CARPORT 4 YRS., A/C 3YRS., VINYL FENCE 3 YRS. Grab your GOLF CART and let’s go the Farmer’s Market on Saturday or the many restaurants and shops downtown!!! This home is a REAL CHARMER and a MUST SEE!!! Asking Only $329,000

JUS

JUST LISTED!!!

3 BDRM. 3 BA. PRICED FOR A QUICK SALE!!! RARE OPPORTUNITY TO BUY A HOME FOR UNDER $150,000 FROM THE ORGINAL OWNER!!! THIS IS A GOOD BASIC HOME WITH GOOD BONES THAT NEEDS A LITTLE WORK AND UPDATING!!! BEING SOLD “AS-IS” SELLER’S WILL MAKE NO REPAIRS***FURNITURE IS NEGOTIABLE***ALL PERSONAL ITEMS WILL BE REMOVED PRIOR TO CLOSING. THIS HOME ALSO FEATURES A COVERED BACK PORCH, FENCED YARD AND IS CLOSE TO ALL MAJOR HIGHWAYS AND SHOPPING... EASY TO SHOW!!! Asking Only $144,000

OLD

JUS

WHY PAY RENT???

OLD

SO MUCH TO OFFER IN THIS 3 Bdrm., 2 Ba. beauty!!! Everything has been done, new laminate flooring in Living room, Dining, Kitchen and Family room, new carpet in all bedrooms, new vanities in both bath rooms. This home has been freshly painted inside and comes complete with appliances, window blinds!!! This home has been upgraded with double pane windows, A/C replaced in 2009, replumbed, upgraded electrical service. Fenced in back yard with 2 storage sheds, stately trees and so much more. Conveniently located to shopping, schools and all major highways!!! Take a look at this home today!!! Asking Only $169,000

300427-1

300462-1

First-grader Annabelle Maison, 7, focused all her attention as she played the Megawire game.

eene’s Crossing Cougars enjoyed an afternoon of games, prizes and sweet treats at the school’s spring carnival on Thursday, March 14. The annual event featured a variety of carnival games and bounce houses, two different climbing walls, a prize raffle and more. Students even got a chance to dunk their favorite teacher at a dunking booth. The carnival was organized by the school’s PTO and was held to celebrate the beginning of spring break.

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 21, 2019

WEST ORANGE OBITUARIES

Winter Garden’s ONLY family owned funeral home.

407-614-8350

“That’s My Wish”

We are your Hometown Funeral Home, offering our:

Direct Cremation for: Call for details

795.00

www.winteroakfuneralhome.com

300444-1

“Home of the area’s first certified therapy dog. Feel free to stop in and say hello to Charley Girl!” 1132 E. Plant Street, Winter Garden Florida 34787 • LIC #F080822

WE ARE HERE TO SERVE YOU

JOHN EDWARD KENT DIED TUESDAY, MARCH 5, 2019. John Edward Kent, 51, of Pomona Park, Florida, passed away Tuesday, March 5, 2019, at Grady Memorial Hospital in Atlanta, Georgia, after injuries from a helicopter accident. He was born in Orlando, Florida, to Robert and Marie Kent. Johnny was a previous member of the Lake County Sheriff’s Mounted Posse. He was a licensed helicopter pilot and instructor and a former lineman at Duke Energy. Johnny loved riding his Harley motorcycle. He was most happy when he was helping others and anyone he met became friends forever. Johnny was known for his love of family, friends and the outdoors. He loved traveling with his beautiful wife, Brandi, and living life to its fullest. He is survived by and lovingly remembered by his wife, Brandi Kent; daughters, Ranen Kent and Brooke Lowe; grandsons, William Lowe IV and Ashton Kent; father, Robert Kent; mother, Marie Kent; brothers, Jimmy Kent, Robert Kent and twin brother Charles Kent;

along with countless nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and inlaws that number in the hundreds. In lieu of flowers, a fund has been set up at FallenLinemen. org (please put Johnny Kent in the comments section). A service was held at noon Saturday, March 16, 2019, (with visitation from 11 a.m. to noon prior to service) at Hope International Church, 13806 State Road 33, Groveland, FL 34736, with Pastor Tommy Cook officiating. Online condolences may be left at purcellfuneralhome. com. Arrangements entrusted to Purcell Funeral Home, Bush-

I LOVE WEST ORANGE Collison Carey Hand Funeral Home is a proud fixture of Windermere and West Orange County. We have built our homes and reputations here. We are here for you.

Robert Bittle

Funeral Director In Charge

We make it personal.®

1148 E. Plant St. Winter Garden, Fl careyhand.com

300396-1

407-877-6700

3 col x 5” Collison_Rob’19

The 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.

“Cremation Choices offers an affordable alternative to expensive funeral homes and cremation services in the Central Florida area.”

750

Let us tell the story of your life.

We Proudly offer: 300493-1

921 S. US Hwy 27 • Minneola, FL

For more information and a complete list of prices, please visit our website:

One block north of Citrus Tower

www.cremationchoicesfl.com

@Observerorange Baldwin Fairchild Funeral Home Winter Garden

428 E. Plant St. Winter Garden, FL 34787 • 407-656-2233 • www.baldwinfairchild.com

“Because You Care” W A F O &O e

Amily

Wned

perAted

300442-1

Plus Container

352-394-8228

• Traditional Burial and Cremation Services • Prearranged Funeral Services

300431-1

Direct Cremation

Karen Hewett of West Orange High School shared this photo of WOHS Air Force JROTC cadets at the Arnold Palmer Invitational as the Trophy Honor Guard. Standing guard are sophomore Luca Hewett and freshman Gabriella LeTang.

“FULL SERVICE FUNERAL PROVIDER WITH ONSITE CREMATORY” ALL INCLUSIVE DIRECT CREMATION ONLY $795 • DIRECT BURIAL ONLY $2295

(407) 695-CARE (2273) • www.DEGusipEFunERAlHomE.Com Maitland 9001 N.Orlando Ave. Maitland, FL 32751 | West Orange 1400 Mathew Paris Blvd. Ocoee, FL 34761 Sanford 905 Laurel Ave. Sanford, FL 32771 | Joh ston Chapel 65 N. Gallitan Ave Uniontown, PA 15401

Todd Degusipe Director/Owner

Colleen Gillis Pre-planner

Frank Scarlata Director/Manager

MARCH 21, 2019

the Ocoee girls lacrosse team. Page 18

HIGH

SPORTS

Jaime Schlager is playing her best ball with

In West Orange’s 5-4 win on the baseball diamond against Bradley Central (Tenn.) on Saturday, March 16, Ricky Reeth had a big day for the Warriors as he went 3-for-4 from the plate with a double. Teammates Anthony Garcia and Elmer Rivera added on for the Warriors’ offense as they each picked up a hit and RBI.

The West Orange track and field team had an overall good day at the races, as the Warriors had multiple athletes score wins during the Royal Invitational at The First Academy on Saturday, March 16. Nicholas Miller took home first in the 800m with a time of 1:57.74, while the team of Jaylen McCallum, Jayden Gibson, Jaylon Carlies and Jaylen Noble took home first in the 1600m relay. Throw in Russell Robinson’s first-place finish in the triple jump, and the Warriors would finish second overall.

In Foundation Academy’s 8-5 win over Master’s Academy in baseball on Thursday, March 14, the Lions had big performances from Braden Holcomb (3-for-4, RBI) and Nathan Andrews (2-for-3, RBI). Dylan Ahmad would add 2 RBI himself to help push the Lions to 5-1 on the season.

Despite falling to Olympia 16-11 in boys lacrosse on Thursday, March 14, Ocoee’s Blake Bradford and Jason Gruenthal had strong showings for the Knights as they both

Need for speed Alex Jacky is making a name for himself on the kart circuit.

Courtesy photo

Out on the racetrack at Ocala Gran Prix, Bridgewater Middle sixth-grader Alex Jacky leaves competitors in the dust. TROY HERRING SPORTS EDITOR

lex Jacky lives the life of every normal, 12-year-old kid: He goes to school, works on homework and enjoys just having fun. But for Jacky, a sixth-grader at Bridgewater Middle, his idea of fun is a bit more intense — as in “speeding up to 70 miles per hour as he weaves past other drivers around the racetrack” intense.

While his parents drive him to school, on most weekends it’s Jacky who is the one doing the driving, though it’s on halfmile- to mile-long tracks that are usually around 30 feet wide. It’s there on that smooth, black asphalt at the Ocala Gran Prix facility where he has his fun as a budding kart racer. There, he gets to do what he likes the best — speed. “(I enjoy) getting to go fast — getting to be inches from the ground, going super fast,” Jacky said. “Getting the momentum

through the corners and (feeling the g-force).” And it makes sense that going fast is something that Jacky has gotten incredibly good at, seeing as how he first took interest in the sport when he was just 3 years old. Growing up in a house with two raceloving parents, Jacky received a nice toy SEE KID RACER PAGE 18

Winter Garden Karate teaches martial arts, life lessons The Gonzalez family business helps local kids and adults become better people and better martial artists. TROY HERRING SPORTS EDITOR

scored three goals apiece.

In Ocoee’s dominating 20-0 win over Windermere in girls flag football on Wednesday, March 13, Zamiya Robinson and Christa Sistrunk had good games for the Knights. Robinson ran for two touchdowns, while Sistrunk added a touchdown herself to account for all three of the Knights’ touchdowns.

Standing at the center of the bright mats of Winter Garden Karate, 10-year-old Ashton Duguid-Petrakis takes his stance. He briskly goes into his kata — a detailed choreographed exercise used by martial artists — and moves gracefully about the floor. With each strike of the hand or foot, his white karate gi flows along, as the brown belt around his waist twirls about. It’s this aspect of martial arts that Duguid-Petrakis loves the most — it allows him to better understand his technique. “I personally like katas,”

Duguid-Petrakis said. “It’s very fun to learn — it’s exciting. It’s like going from one strike or move to another move, and the fun part is just learning it and practicing. It also teaches you how to combine strikes and the purpose of them.” As he watches from just off to the side, sensei Li Gonzalez takes notes and watches as the young Duguid-Petrakis works on his form. The learning and development of these young martial artists is a big part of the reason why Gonzalez — a fourth-degree black belt and a sensei at the school — does what he does. “I actually enjoy it, because it’s a day-by-day learning experience,” Gonzalez said. “I also

Troy Herring

Rickari Fox works on his punches with Li Gonzalez.

like seeing the kids grow up — like I’ll see them when they first start (and think), ‘This kid can’t tell his left from his right,’ and all of a sudden it’s three years in and this kid is throwing head kicks and doing all of this crazy stuff. That’s pretty cool.” This school, and its teaching, is a family tradition dedicated to helping kids — and adults — learn the ways of karate, and it’s why his father established the

school 15 years ago. Teaching alongside his sister, Yaidel, who is a black belt herself, and his father, Kermit — a seventh-degree black belt and the school’s shihan — is a continuation of a passion for karate that all started with his dad’s time in the military, which included teaching taekwondo. That early influence led Gonzalez to pick up martial arts at the age of 5, and from there he just ran with it. In the years since, he has developed and worked on his techniques and has spent the last 15 years teaching the students who come through the front door at Winter Garden Karate next to his family — which has been a lot of fun, Gonzalez said. “It’s really nice, it really is,” Gonzalez said. “Every family is SEE KARATE PAGE 19

SPORTS SPOTLIGHT

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 21, 2019

Kid racer

SPONSORED BY SHANNON TILL STATE FARM IN FOWLER GROVES

Jaime Schlager

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 17

After a stint playing basketball, Ocoee junior Jaime Schlager made the switch to lacrosse last year, and it has paid off. So far this season, Schlager has scored the game-winning goal against Evans and picked up a team-high five goals in a win over Oak Ridge. Along with scoring goals, she’s the face-off specialist for the Knights.

How did you first get into lacrosse? This is actually only my second year playing, and last year I decided I wanted to try something new, and lacrosse looked fun, and I like a challenge. I didn’t really know anyone on the team, so I was just kind of going in on my own, and I’m glad I did. What’s been the biggest difficulty going from basketball to lacrosse? Definitely having something in my hands all the time, like with my stick. Getting to learn how to work with it is a lot harder, while in basketball it’s like, I don’t have the basketball all the time. What’s been your favorite thing about playing lacrosse the last two years? Just how new it is — it’s a lot different from basketball and it’s a whole new scene; like I’m out on the field, and I have a lot more teammates playing with me at once, and I got to know all these new girls, and it’s really awesome. What’s some of the best advice you’ve gotten? With our team especially — our team is pretty inexperienced — the best advice they have given is to not worry about the score in the game; just worry about how we’re playing and work as a team and keep uplifting each other, and make sure we’re staying positive.

THE BASICS SCHOOL: Ocoee YEAR: Junior AGE: 17 SPORT: Lacrosse POSITION: Middie

I’m trying to work on my stick work, because I’ve got a hang of using my right — since I’m right-handed — but I want to be able to transition more smoothly to my left hand and work that into my game. Has there been a highlight moment for you so far? This season there have been two. We played Evans and we were tied 4-4 and there was 10 seconds left on the clock, and I had the ball at the goal. I didn’t know there was 10 seconds left — I thought we had three minutes, so I was taking my time — and everyone was yelling, “Jaime, you have to shoot!” So I went in and shot, and I got the game-winning goal right as the clock stopped. And then we played Oak Ridge and we won 16-0 and I got five of our goals, which was the most of anyone on the team. Do you have plans for after you graduate next year? I hadn’t really thought about playing lacrosse in college — I thought it may be fun, but I’m not sure if that is something I would be able to commit to, because school is very important.

Is there one thing you’re working on this season to better your game? Personally,

— TROY HERRING

Athlete of the Week sponsored by:

vehicle from his grandpa to ride around in — that’s when a passion for racing started to take shape in the young Jacky. “It was battery powered and had rubber tires, so it was kind of quick,” said Eric, Alex’s father and mechanic. “It was made for 8-year-olds and I was like, ‘Let’s take him out to the parking lot and see what he does with it.’ We put him in, put a little bicycle helmet on him and the kid put his foot to the floor and burned the tires off and took off. “We were like, ‘That’s not what we expected,’” he said. “The thing did 10 to 15 miles per hour, so it wasn’t like he was hauling mail or anything, but for 3 years old he was moving right along. He would just go out there and do laps and just burn laps and squeal the whole time by — the little neighbor kids would get in it and they were scared to death of it, so we thought, ‘There’s no fear aspect here, so let’s look at something next.’” The next step for Alex was to try karting, so Eric took him to the local track there in Boise, Idaho — where they lived at the time — to see what he could do. Over the next few years Alex honed his craft — putting in hours upon hours of practicing — before taking part in his first real, competitive race the weekend of his eighth birthday. That race would see him finish in fifth place. Since moving to Horizon West back in 2011, Alex has raced 50-to-60,000 laps at Ocala and has grown as a racer in every way, Eric said. For Alex, the growth as a driver has helped get him to where he is now. “From the beginning I didn’t really know what to do, other than to take it and do it,” Alex said. “Then from my earlier races I’ve learned how to take other people’s lines and draft off of them through the races, and I’ve gotten better and better from there.” In fact, in the last two weeks Alex was bumped up to the junior class, where the karts are a bit bigger and heavier, and the racers more talented. But the funny thing is, despite having to adapt to a new class and all the obstacles that come with it, his approach before a race is the same. Prior to each race he practices and practices — getting four sessions in before the first race — and getting the kart ready to go. From there it’s just good old-fashioned racing, which means Alex likes to keep a clean frame of mind. “There’s not really much (that goes through my head) — I’m just hoping (my kart) stays gripped

Agent ChFC, service CLU, CLF Call ANYTIMECraig to receiveMartin our State Farm Good -Neighbor

Craig Martin Craig Martin

Agent - ChFC, CLU, CLF Craig@CraigMartinInsurance.com www.CraigMartinInsurance.com Craig@CraigMartinInsurance.com Craig@CraigMartinInsurance.com Agent - ChFC, CLU, CLF www.CraigMartinInsurance.com www.CraigMartinInsurance.com 13330 W. Colonial Dr., Suite 110 • Winter Garden, FL 34787 Craig@CraigMartinInsurance.com 13330 W. Colonial • Winter Garden, FL 34787 14416 Shoreside Way,Dr., SuiteSuite 140 •110 Winter Garden, FL 34787

Minneola, FL 34715 (352) 394-0303

1333 East Crown Point rd. oCoEE, FL 34761

Have our Mobile Showroom come to you!

www.marksfloorsonline.com

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

300451-1

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

Eric Jacky, Alex’s dad

Call ANYTIME to receive State Farm Good Health Insurance OPENour ENROLLMENT Nov.Neighbor 15 thruservice Feb. 15

Minneola Location 301 E. Washington St. Unit F

300487-1

Mount Dora Location

“For us this is probably the best family activity you could ever imagine — it really is a full family effort.”

Health Insurance OPEN ENROLLMENT Nov. 15 thru Feb. 15 Health Insurance OPENour ENROLLMENT Nov.Neighbor 15 thru service Feb. 15 Call ANYTIME to receive State Farm Good

* Carpet * Tile * Hardwood * Vinyl * Laminate 731 S. Dillard St. Unit 101/103 Winter Garden, FL 34787 (407) 410-8998

and I just follow the kart in front,” Alex said. That strategy is what led Alex to a couple of big wins last year in the Mini-Rok class (the division that he left for juniors this year) and it also helped him recently attain a four-year scholarship from Ocala Gran Prix for his racing efforts from the 2018 season. But what do his parents think about all of this? While most would be worried about their kid riding in a kart going nose-tonose with others at 70 miles per hour, for them it’s not that big of a deal, really. “It’s just kind of what we do, so it’s really not something I think about,” Eric said. “I’m more worried about things like, ‘Did I get the air pressures right,’ because each tire is individually done. The only thing that worries me on the race track is if there is a new kid — someone who doesn’t understand the unwritten rules.” When Eric says that it’s what they do, he means the whole family. Each member of the Jacky family acts in some role — whether it be as a mechanic, in Eric’s case, or as a cheer team. And honestly, of all the things that have made up the Jackys’ lives in racings — including the ups and downs — it is the family aspect of it all that has really made this whole experience worthwhile. “For us this is probably the best family activity you could ever imagine — it really is a full family effort,” Eric said. “From a family standpoint we are together every weekend, we’re always working together, learning and getting better. “Racing is us 100% basically — we win together, we lose together,” he said. “It’s really a great family bonding activity.”

AUTO • HOME • LIFE • BANK

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

Winter Garden Location

Racing has become a way of life for the young racer.

407-656-1040 407-656-1040

www.CraigMartinInsurance.com 13330 W. Colonial Dr., Suite 110 • Winter Garden, FL Hablamos 34787 Español

407-656-1040

The greatest compliment you can give iscompliment a referral! The greatest you can give is a referral!

The greatest compliment you can give is a referral!

Hablamos Español Hablamos Español

300614-1

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

Ocoee Middle falls 45-43 to Apopka in county championship

n front of a packed gym on the West Orange High campus, the Ocoee Middle Cardinals (8-2) fought Apopka tooth-and-nail before falling 45-43 in overtime of the county championship game on Wednesday, March 13. Following a 65-58 doubleovertime win in the Final Four against Lockhart Middle on Wednesday, March 6, the Cardinals came into Thursday’s game with a championship on their mind against Apopka — who beat the Cardinals earlier for the division championship. After a back-and-forth game, which saw Ocoee and Apopka trade blow after blow, the Cardinals found themselves down 42-40 with just 40 seconds to go and needing to make something happen. Then, with just one second left on the clock, the Cardinals were fouled on a shot — sending Ahlston Ware to the line where he hit two free throws to tie the game. What followed was a fastpaced overtime that saw Apopka take the lead, before a three-pointer from Ocoee missed its mark at the buzzer to cap off another epic game for the Cardinals.

— TROY HERRING Eberson Charles drives to the basket against the Apopka defense.

THURSDAY, MARCH 21, 2019

Karate kids CONTINUED FROM PAGE 17

going to bump heads, but at the end of the day not a lot of people can be like, ‘Yeah, I work with my father and my sister.’” The school itself offers up a range of classes for children as young as 4 years old, all the way up to adults. Gonzalez said that he currently has a student who is in his 60s actively participating. It’s the kids’ classes, however, where Gonzalez and his family can really teach the fundamentals of self-discipline and respect that play such an important role in their martial art. In reaching children at such a young age, it’s crucial to teach them how to handle themselves. “This day and era, the way the world is, they understand what respect is and how to behave and be presentable in the public,” Gonzalez said. “I feel like that is going away, and I don’t know why. (I want to see them) carry their own and be confident.” The structure that comes along with martial arts is a pretty big factor if you ask some of Gonzalez’s elite pupils, such as DuguidPetrakis and 9-year-old Rickari Fox. For Fox, a green belt at the school, that discipline goes handin-hand with the sparring aspect of his training, which also happens to be his favorite part about karate. “I came here to learn discipline,” Fox said. “I like learning how to fight — that’s why I like sparring — and it mostly helps you how to toughen up.” A big part of the draw for the

Troy Herring

Ashton Duguid-Petrakis practices.

once shy Duguid-Petrakis was that it offered him a place to learn how to become a better person and develop mental strength. “It taught me many things over the years — it taught me respect, discipline and how to be a good leader,” Duguid-Petrakis said. The drive to better themselves, both mentally and technically, is something that can be seen when you watch these young students work in the dojo. And while they all have different goals they set up for themselves, there’s one thing that unites them all — a fire to keep going and to get better. “I want to be able to do this to where I no longer have enough time to — even if I don’t have enough time, I want to come here,” Duguid-Petrakis said. “I can’t say I want to go to a belt and just stop, I always want to go higher.”

wgwheelworks.com 101 W. Plant St. Winter Garden, FL 34787 407-654-1496 302988-1

GAME FILM

OrangeObserver.com

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

OrangeObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 21, 2019

CHURCH DIRECTORY Anglican Community Fellowship of Winter Garden 1146 E. Plant Street THEACF.NET ‘ 407-252-0704 Sunday Service 10 AM

BAPTIST

Beulah Baptist Pastor Casey Butner 671 Beulah Rd, Winter Garden 407-656-3342 | BeulahBaptistWG.org SUNDAY BIBLE STUDY 9:30AM SUNDAY SERVICE 11:00AM WEDNESDAY SERVICE 6:00PM 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 WEDNESDAYS - 6pm - Awana Pastor Tim Grosshans www.fbcwg.org 2nd Campus: FOUNDATION WORSHIP SUNDAYS 9:45 am - All Ages Foundation Academy High School 15304 Tilden Rd., Winter Garden www.FoundationWorship.com 407-730-1867

STARKE LAKE BAPTIST CHURCH PO Box 520, 611 W Ave, Ocoee Pastor Jeff Pritchard (407) 656-2351 www.starkelakebaptist.org

CHURCH OF GOD

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

EPISCOPAL

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

METHODIST

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

Advertise your Services or Events on this page weekly. This page appears weekly in the West Orange Times & Observer and online at orangeobserver.com. To advertise in the Church Directory call 407-656-2121 or email advertisenow@orangeobserver.com

302863-1

ANGLICAN

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

NON-DENOMINATIONAL PURPOSE CHURCH ORLANDO 13640 W. Colonial Dr., Ste 110, Winter Garden 407-654-9661 • Prayer 9:30AM, Fellowship 9:45AM, Service 10:05AM

Jesus answered, “The light will be with you only a little longer. Walk while you have the light so that darkness doesn’t overtake you. The one who walks in darkness doesn’t know where he’s going. While you have the light, believe in the light so that you may become children of light.” John 12:35-36

125 E. PLANT STREET • WINTER GARDEN

XNSP17512

NOW ENROLLING FOR FALL! AGES 1-6

XNSP17402

Please come out and meet our staff and Interested InterestedininaaMontessori Montessori take a tour of the facility. Education, Education,with withaaChristian Christian Preschool & Daycare 407.905.9500 Worldview, Worldview,forforyour your 740 9th St., Winter Garden, FL 34787 preschool preschoolchild? child? Learn Learnmore morenow nowbybyemailing emailing Preschool Director Ginger Allen at MatthewsHopeMinistries.org Meagan@MatthewsHopeMinistries.org ginger@MatthewsHopeMinistries.org www.facebook.com/MatthewsHopeFirmFoundation/

TIME SIGN UP WIN WIN

Health Matters

It is to

Your news your way.

Coming Thursday, April 18

ENT A CHAER FOR NCE T O

West Orange adults are active participants in their health care journey

APP SERIELE WATC S *4 H

TO SIGN UP VISIT ORANGEOBSERVER.COM/EMAIL-SIGNUP

Daily Headlines:

• 1 in 3 area adults take action after seeing health care advertising. - Ads are the most influential driving research, opening up a discussion with doctor or requesting a prescription.

A daily dose of

• 78% of Orange County adults are actively engaged with maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

up-to-the-minute news from Winter Garden,

• 55% of Orange County adults use newspapers and magazines as sources of health-related information.

Windermere, Dr. Phillips, Horizon West, Winter

• $2.24 Billion is spent annually on health care services in Orange County.

Park and Maitland.

Monday - Friday

Reach more than 174,656 Observer readers and online users with your ad!

DON’T WAIT FOR TOMORROW, FOR TODAY’S NEWS.

Editorial Content: Offering the latest in health news, issues and ideas from Central Florida’s health care community.

Call your account executive today!

West Orange (407) 656-2121 // advertisenow@orangeobserver.com

Source: Google Analytics, 30 days avg. active users 2018.

302885-1

Winter Park/Maitland (407) 401-9299 // jfanara@orangeobserver.com

* One entry per person. The contest is open to subscribers of the Observer’s eNewsletters. All entries must be received by 5/31/19. Late entries will not be entered. Participants will be entered into the drawing to win an Apple Series 4 Watch (image pictured above is an illustrated smart watch, actual prize is an Apple Series 4 Watch up to $400 value, color and style may vary). No cash alternative to the prize is offered. The prize drawing will be independently supervised. The winner will be selected at random and notified by the Observer by 5/31/19. It is the recipient’s responsibility to obtain any permission necessary and entrants must be aged 18+. The winner agrees for their name, job title and company to be published on our website, OrangeObserver. com and on the Observer’s social media channels. Employees of the promoter and their immediate families or anyone professionally connected with the promotion will be excluded from the prize drawing. The winner is responsible for any tax liability which may arise from receipt of a prize. The promoter is the Observer whose decision in all matters is final. Promoter does not accept liability for damaged or faulty prizes. The winner’s details are available upon request from rlankton@yourobserver.com. These terms and conditions are available upon request.

302886-1

OrangeObserver.com

Space deadline: Monday, April 1

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

THESE OLD TIMES

FROM THE WINTER GARDEN HERITAGE FOUNDATION

MARCH 23, 1972 Winter Garden resident Rod Reeves, an artist and retired longtime art teacher, has always had a fascination with sketching people and architecture. In the 1970s, The Winter Garden Times printed one of his drawings each week, creating a Who’s Who — famous or otherwise — of the Winter Garden landscape. One such subject was B.D. “Pop” Bennett, who had a talent for “delighting local youngsters by wiggling his ears.”

Lester Austin, who has been attending The Citadel in Washington, D.C., has returned home. Mrs. C.M. Biggers and son Donald and Mrs. Robert Davis and son Billy Bob spent Monday in Lakeland with relatives.

75 years ago

Cub Scout Pack 46 met at the First United Methodist Church of Winter Garden with four dens represented. Cubmaster Jake Voss presided. Cubs making reports of activities were Chuck Holland, Jud Kunneman, Rice Pounds and Jimmy DeLoach. Awards were given to these Cubs: Wolf badges, Pounds, Rick Donahey, Jody Hall, Jay Sherman; Lion Badge, John Girvin; Gold Arrow, Bill Thompson, Holland, Phillip Cross, John Hovsepian, Donahey and Howard Hitchcock.

40 years ago

Mrs. Ray Fulford expressed her appreciation to the staff of West Orange Memorial Hos-

CROSSWORD

ACROSS

1 Twitter follower? 7 Birthday secret 11 ___ Crunch 15 Cornfield pest 19 Artemis’ twin 20 Italian appetizer 22 2018 Alfonso Cuaron drama 23 “Bad, Bad” and Encyclopedia Brown 24 Monk who’s a Wall Street math whiz? 26 Puzzling people 28 Cultural group

FROM THE ARCHIVES Castle Hill was a Norman-style estate located in the very eastern portion of Lake County, just west of the Orange-Lake county line near the Killarney settlement. It was built in the 1920s by Louise Thorne

Bovington, a Montgomery Ward heiress. The house was demolished in early 2014. A nearby subdivision planned along Highway 455 originally bore the home’s name. Killarney was settled by Irish

immigrants in the late 19th century, though many families left the area following the Great Freeze of 1894-95, which devastated the region’s citrus industry.

The mission of the Winter Garden Heritage Foundation is to preserve the heritage and architecture of Winter Garden while creating new cultural experiences. The Foundation also preserves the material culture of West Orange County, using it to educate the area’s youth on the community’s rich history. pital for the fine care received during a recent stay there. She gave special thanks to Dr. Bradford and Louise Broyles.

30 years ago

The Mediterranean-styled Southwest Branch Library, in

Dr. Phillips, held its ribboncutting and grand opening. Letter writer Mrs. M. Baron urged the community to keep West Orange Memorial Hospital in Winter Garden: “Please don’t even think about moving this hospital. Keep it where it is needed, away from the

41 Film about a large feather? 42 Costa ___, California 43 Boastful winner’s cry 45 Ames sch. 47 ___ a kind 48 Put down, as a riot 49 Feline vibration 51 Strong pub offerings 54 Talk about giving up? 56 That, in Tijuana 58 Ancient harps 59 “I’m with Stupid” garment 62 Home of the god Pan 67 Gin’s partner 68 Shortstop Aybar 69 Orthodontist’s concern 71 Dish with oats 72 Lox fish DOWN 74 “That was a mistake!” 1 Hill’s counterpart 78 2018 Sexiest Man Alive 2 “___ sesame!” Idris 3 Singer Amos 79 Pigeon sounds 4 Heavy dancing shoes 5 Discus champions’ phys- 81 A, in Deutschland 82 Drains of energy ics considerations? 84 Montreal’s prov. 6 Tile art 86 Stuffed 7 Tail movement 88 Eat between meals 8 Regarding 91 Hard clams 9 “Never mind” notation 92 Give confidence to 10 Mountain superlative 93 Terra-cotta warriors’ 11 “O Holy Night,” for one locale 12 Warts and all 13 School fundraising org. 96 Party thrower 98 Denali National Park’s 14 Like a shower mat state 15 Bread tidbit 29 Big meeting 53 Golf pencils, soon 77 In the capacity of 100 Like undemanding jobs 16 Meander 30 Rotisserie rods 54 Taqueria cheese 78 Sound rebounds 101 Impressive assortment 17 Potent prefix 32 Conger, for one 55 End of an oral citation 80 Biscotti flavorings 102 Green legumes 18 Power unit 33 Chunk of granite 57 Brawls 83 “Bumblebee,” for 104 Enticed105 21 Corn bread 34 Wine label abbr. 59 Sikh’s garment “Transformers” Bluish-green 25 Campus square 37 Global warming casual- 60 More, in scores 85 Roller coaster 360s 106 Mixed breed107 Tiger 27 Pedometer trigger ties 61 Activist Parks 86 CD-insuring agcy. ___ (teen magazine) 31 Haggis eater 40 Start to spin out 63 “Seize the day” 87 Bond creator Fleming 108 Yemen port 33 Lodge rentals 41 Texter’s reply to over- acronym 89 Old chestnut 109 Playroom floor brick 34 Brusque sharing 64 Apple assistant 90 Ghosts in Mario games 110 Stuck in ___ 35 Canadian dollar 44 Weak type of acid 65 LPGA peg 91 Virus that affects your 36 Left-bending lawn game 112 Clue weapon 46 “Choosing spuds 66 Three stairs, often? tax software? 113 Similar shot? requires a good eye,” e.g.? 70 Baseball execs 94 Yo-Yo Ma plays it 114 Repentance time 38 Neutron’s place 95 Make a proposal for, say 49 “What a relief!” 73 Pitch aggressively 116 Back again 39 Window part 50 Birds’ perches 75 Earth’s innermost layer 96 Storytelling dance 117 ___-cone 40 Layer above bedrock 97 Savior 52 Weigh station unit 76 Cafe au ___

QUIRKY CHANGES by Warren Houck; Edited by David Steinberg

99 Hawks point guard Jeremy 100 Lignite or anthracite 101 “Clash of Clans” is one 103 Adhering to Islamic law 105 Surprise attack 108 Iris ring 111 Instinctive 115 Mission to find a matching sock? 118 Pet gently 119 Its state flag features a beehive 120 Lube tool 121 Bottle up, as emotions 122 J.D. holder 123 Betamax company 124 ___-Rooter 125 Fervid

hustle of busy roads, away from impersonal folks that lose touch with the patient because they are so rushed and just too busy. Folks like to be called by their name, not by a number; they like a personal touch, especially when they are ill and away from their home.”

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.

“C’DM HXRM X UGVRMKBOJ JCDCVE FJXZCVE IPXI IPMXIKCSXJ SPXKXSIMK – IPM FKGBMAACGVXJ TKXAAZ RXHM.” –MIPMJ HMKHXV “IYSL GNRV GNYRWJ-DHRNWYTW THY GW PJNYC RVW ZWWDZWXNJWZ, SIYC-HGHNRWZ XDJNYC.” –HYYW BIJJIG SNYZPWJCV Puzzle Two Clue: L equals Y

65 years ago

THURSDAY, MARCH 21, 2019

THROWBACK THURSDAY

80 years ago

The junior class of Lakeview High School will present “One Mad Night,” a mystery play in three acts, in the high school auditorium.

Puzzle One Clue:U equals W

WEST ORANG E HISTO RY

OrangeObserver.com

SUDOKU

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

3-21-19

22 22

OrangeObserver.com OrangeObserver.com

WEST WESTORANGE ORANGETIMES TIMES&&OBSERVER OBSERVER | | THURSDAY, THURSDAY,MARCH MARCH21, 21,2019 2019

AIR CONDITIONING

AUTO SERVICE

FLOORING

TRAYWICK'S

TFN

GARAGE

TFN

PET rom... CAR d F

301021

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

ly Ful

407-656-1817

-FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED –

407.296.9622 407.877.6268

LV11098

HERE’S MY CARD - BUSINESS DIRECTORY

lle

. ft. / sq

Ful LAMI ly In N sta ATE lled Fro m..

/ sq . ft.

a Inst

WATERPROOF

$ 99/ sq. ft.

Fully Installed From...

www.gsairsystems.com email: gsairsystems@cfl.rr.com

3 59

Licensed & Insured - State License #CAC1814407

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

Battery Testing and Replacement

Scheduled Maintenance

Transmission and Engine Repair

Computerized Diagnostics

Tune-Ups and General Repair

Tires and Alignments

In House Towing Available C A R P E T • L A M I N AT E • WAT E R P R O O F F L O O R I N G

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

Working Owners

www.r-dauto.com

11159 W Colonial Dr. • Ocoee, FL 34761 IntegrityLaminateFlooring.com

Estimates

301035

We offer financing with approved credit

407-614-5027

Ray Cornell Jr. Doug Gallinger

301025

301016

Call for a FREE estimate on Equipment Replacement.

HOME SERVICES

AUTO SERVICE

ORLANDO PREMIUM SHUTTERS The best shutters! The best prices! With the best warranty!

WE BUY JUNK CARS WE BUY SCRAP METAL

MADE IN THE USA

See store for details

179.95 BMW 5 Series $199.95 $

179.95 Mercedes E-Class $199.95 $

Full Synthetic Oil Service

407-656-4707

ONLY

www.budgetupullit.com

89.95

301027

BMW 3 Series Mercedes C-Class

302117

STRESS

BRAKE PAD SALE

PAINTING

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

FREE

Serving Orlando & Surrounding Areas

407-415-7185 • OrlandoPremiumShutters.com

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK • 8AM - 5PM

Financing

CALL FOR YOUR FREE IN-HOME CONSULTATION TODAY!

Custom measured, designed, manufactured and installed by shutter experts. 301014

298995

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

Includes up to Service includes: Front or Rear Pads, Parts and Labor. 7 quarts of Full Synthetic Oil. Tax and recycling fees are extra. Not valid with any other offers. Expires 3/31/19.

PEST CONTROL

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

Phone 407-656-6646

Richard Hudson • Reggie Hudson

301029

REG# MV-01095

CATERING “A luxury everyone can afford!”

PET SERVICES

Puppy Dreams Pet Hotel

Willie J. Fulmore Owner

Your pet’s home away from home

We make Old Fashioned, Texas Style BBQ! 301015

17436 7th Street • 407-469-0060 Montverde, FL 34756

www.puppydreams.com

YOUR BUSINESS CARD HERE

271 Maguire Rd Ocoee FL 34761

your rental

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

sunbeltrentals.com

301024

10% OFF

TFN

703 S. Vineland Rd. Winter Garden, FL 34787

CONSTRUCTION

Mention this ad for

a unique no-cage facility daycare and overnight boarding

(407) 654-8885

Open Friday and Saturday • 11 am until 7 pm

301018

TFN

301017

A portion of the profits help to fund Homeless Women and Children.

301030

• Chicken • Ribs • Pork • Beef • Small & Large Orders • Catering

302828

Willie’s Bar-B-Que

• Bridgestone • Michelin • Toyo • BFG Tires

CALL 407-656-2121

or email us: advertisenow@orangeobserver.com

THURSDAY,MARCH MARCH21, 21,2019 2019 THURSDAY,

23 23

HERE’S MY CARD - BUSINESS DIRECTORY POOLS

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

FIRE TECH

HD Pool Care LLC

ROOFING

TFN 301020

EXTINGUISHER

• Pool Service & Repairs • Full Weekly Pool Service • Complete Equipment Repairs & Replacement

SERVICE 302037

Ocoee, FL

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

Paul - 863.547.7793 • Gary - 407.437.3476 hdpoolcare@gmail.com

TFN

www.Firetechextinguisher.com

301031

10 Plus Years of Experience. Free Quotations. Fast • Reliable • Honest

301019

Danny Motes

Call Now!

Your ad here!

407-656-2121

OrangeObserver.com

FLOORING

AUTO SERVICE

WICK'S TRAYRA GE GA

TFN

... ET RP From CA alled st

301021

AIR CONDITIONING TFN

r Garden 1045 S. Vineland Rd. •Winte ent • New and Used Tires • Alignm • Complete Auto Repair • A/C Serv. & More

gsairsyst www.gsairsystems.com email: #CAC1814407 License

Battery Testing and Replacement

We offer financing with approved

credit

Ray Cornell Jr. Doug Gallinger

301016

on Call for a FREE estimate Equipment Replacement.

Transmission and Engine Repair

Scheduled Maintenance

Working Owners

www.r-dauto.com

Computerized Diagnostics

/ sq . ft.

WATERPROOF

930 Carter Rd #202 Winter Garden, FL 34787 7 Telephone: (407) 614-382 om rdtransautorepair@cfl.rr.c

Estimates

ORLANDO PREMIUM SHUTTERS Custom measured, designed, manufactured and installed by shutter experts.

298995

WE BUY JUNK CARS AL WE BUY SCRAP MET - 5PM

179.95 199.95

PAINTING

407-656-4707

www.bud getu pulli t.com

ONLY

89.95

Color included on all ads! Publishes every thursday, and deadlines Friday the week prior.

302117

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

Full Synthetic Oil Service $

Serving Orlando & Surrounding Areas

iumShutters.com

301027

s E-Class BMW 5 Series Mercede $

MADE IN THE USA

CALL FOR YOUR FREE IN-HOME CONSULTATION TODAY!

IN PRINT AND ONLINE!

Puzzle Two Solution: “Only with winter-patience can we bring the deep-desired, long-awaited Spring.” – Anne Morrow Lindbergh

407-415-7185 • OrlandoPrem

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK • 8AM

See store for details

BMW 3 Series Mercede $

3.3" x 1" starting at $25.00 3.3" x 2" starting at $30.00 3.3" x 4" starting at $50.00

HOME SERVICES

, FL 34787

STRESS

YOUR CARD HERE!

407-614-5027

The best shutters! The best prices! With the best warranty!

FREE

“I’ve made a wonderful living playing that theatrical character – the professional brassy dame.” – Ethel Merman

FLOORING T E • WAT E R P R O O F CARPET • LAMINA

Ocoee, FL 34761 11159 W Colonial Dr. • .com IntegrityLaminateFlooring

881 S. 9th Street • Winter Garden

BRA KE PAD SALE s C-Class

3 Business Card Sizes to choose from:

$ 99/ sq. ft.

Tires and Alignments

Tune-Ups and General Repair

In House Towing Available

AUTO SERVICE

Financing

VIRUS & SPYWARE WinterREMOVAL Garden’s Premier Roofing Company Since 1978 Serving All of West Orange County DATA & PASSWORD Fully Licensed and Insured Roof Repairs and Replacement RECOVERY 407-656-8920 WIRELESS & WIREDWestOrangeRoofing.com PuzzleFREE OneESTIMATES Solution: NETWORKING

This week’s Celebrity Cipher answers

3 59

Fully Installed From...

301025

68 407.296.9622 407.877.62 ems@cfl.rr.com Licensed & Insured - State

Fully

Fully LAMIN AT Inst alle E d Fr om...

. ft.

9 / sq

407-656-1817

OPERATED – -FAMILY OWNED &

LV11098

Y SINESS DIRECTOR RE’S MY CARD - BU

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

UPGRADES & REPAIRS

THURSDAY, MARCH 21, 2019

301035

OBSERVER

301014

WEST ORANGE TIMES &

Includes up to 7 quarts of Full Synthetic Oil. Parts and Labor. Service includes: Front or Rear Pads, Expires 3/31/19. Not valid with any other offers. Tax and recycling fees are extra.

LV11098

WEST & OBSERVER OBSERVER WEST ORANGE ORANGE TIMES TIMES &

OrangeObserver.com OrangeObserver.com

PEST CONTROL

OrangeObserver.com

This week’s Sudoku answers TO ADVERTISE CALL 407-656-2121

or email: AdvertiseNow@OrangeObserver.com

e Center” “Your Complete Servic Garden, FL 34787 10 West Story Rd. Winter MV-01095

6 Phone 407-656-664

Richard Hudson • Reggie

Hudson

301029

REG#

CLASSIFIEDS Willie’s Bar-B-Que Beef

“A luxury everyone can afford!”

Tires

• Chicken • Ribs • Pork • • Small & Large Orders • Catering

Style BBQ! We make Old Fashioned, Texas Women and Children. A portion of the profits help

to fund Homeless

Open Friday and Saturday

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

(407) 654-8885

TFN

703 S. Vinelan d Rd. Winter Garden, FL 34787

• 11 am until 7 pm

CONSTRUCTION

www.puppydreams.com

301018

301017

407-469-0060 17436 7th Street •FL Montverde, 34756

TFN

PET SERVICES

l Puppy Dreams Pet Hote

Willie J. Fulmore Owner

301015

• Bridgestone • Michelin • Toyo • BFG

302828

CATERING

301030

TFN

Mention this ad for

10%

271 Maguire Rd Ocoee FL 34761

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

301024

Thursday, March 21, 2019OFF

INFO & RATES: 407-656-2121 • Fax: 407-656-6075 • EMAIL: classifieds@wotimes.com • ONLINE: www.wotimes.com HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 8:30am-4:30pm • DEADLINES: Classifieds - Tuesday at 10:OOAM • Service Directory - Friday at 10AM • PAYMENT: Cash, Check or Credit Card ©2019 NEA, Inc.

Cemetery Plots/Monuments

CEMETERY PLOTS for Sale. Two cemetery plots with lake views for sale at Woodlawn Memorial Park, Gotha FL (West Orange Area). Save thousands, regularly priced at $22,000 for both plots. Reduced to $19,000 for both plots. Save $3,000 today. Contact: larry.shriner@gmail.com 3/21ls

Garage/Moving/Estate Sales

CRESTWOOD HEIGHTS Community Garage Sale - Sat, March 23, 8am-1pm. Crestwood Commons Ave in Ocoee, HWY 50/Blackwood Ave. 3/21ch OAKLAND PARK Porch Sale - Sales throughout the community. Saturday, March 30, 2019. 3/28lm

Merchandise Wanted

This week’s Crossword answers

Puzzle Two Solution: “Only with winter-patience can we bring the deep-desired, long-awaited Spring.” – Anne Morrow Lindbergh

GET YOUR – MEDICAL MARIJUANA – CARD HERE

This week’s Sudoku answers

Fast Easy Certification

NOW PURCHASING

301049

1801 E. Colonial Dr Orlando, FL 32803 CMMDR.COM

302889

Orlando: 407-755-0012

SCRAP BATTERIES

FREE MARIJUANA DELIVERY Delivered directly to your home or business

Announcements

We provide Medical Marijuana in a variety of forms such as tinctures, pills, pain patches, vapes, concentrates, buds, vape shatter pills, dry flower & much more!

301047 301048

This week’s Celebrity Cipher answers Puzzle One Solution: “I’ve made a wonderful living playing that theatrical character – the professional brassy dame.” – Ethel Merman

Call now for your FREE pre-evaluation by phone

13178 W. Colonial Dr. Winter Garden

407-656-3495

Health & Medical

You NOW get the dry flower to

SMOKE!

Help Wanted

AMBASSADOR DRY Cleaners is looking for a silk, pants, and shirt presser. Experience is a plus, but not required. Apply in person at 850 E Montrose St, Clermont, 34711. 352-394-6160 2/28ac

TO ADVERTISE IN OUR CLASSIFIEDS CALL 407-656-2121

Or email us at advertisenow@orangeobserver.com

2019

This week’s Crossword answers

Sign up today for our FREE eNewsletter and get “News You Can Use” delivered right to your inbox! Just enter your email address in the subscribe here box at the bottom of our home page at: www.OrangeObserver.com

SEARCH • FIND • POST

2019

Visit OrangeObserver.com/Calendar

LV16621

West Orange Times & Observer reserves ltrent als.co m the right to classify and edit copy, or to reject or cancel an advertisement at any time. Corrections after first insertion only. *All ads are subject to the approval of the sunbe Publisher. *It is the responsibility of the party placing any ad for publication in West Orange Times & Observer to meet all applicable legal requirements in connection with the ad such as compliance with town codes in first obtaining an occupational license for business, permitted home occupation, or residential rental property. your rental

WEST ORANGE TIMES & OBSERVER

THURSDAY, MARCH 21, 2019

OrangeObserver.com

302883-1