Ocoee Briefs 07.24.14

+ A volunteer’s heart

Brianne Carroll, left, recently presented a check from the Universal Orlando foundation UGIVE grant program to Rosemary Wilsen, of the Christian Service Center. Carroll has donated countless hours of volunteerism at the center, which serves West Orange County. Wilsen also serves on the Ocoee City Commission.

+ Rotary hosts life coach

John Stiteler, counselor and life coach with Total Health Guidance, of Orlando, recently served as the guest speaker for the Rotary Club of Ocoee. “At Total Health Guidance, we believe that to be truly healthy you need to not only be physically well, but also have a healthy emotional life, satisfying relationships, spiritual health and a solid financial foundation,” Stiteler said. Rotary Club of Ocoee President Vania Colina, left, presented Stiteler with a certificate that notes how the club will make a donation on his behalf to The Rotary Foundation’s “End Polio Now” program.

+ Perner joins Ocoee Lions Club

Colorado native and United States Marines’ veteran Eric Perner officially joined the Ocoee Lions Club June 23. Perner, who has a master’s degree in business finance and leadership, recently opened the Blue Dog Antique and Thrift, on McKey Street, in Ocoee. He cites several reasons for joining the Ocoee Lions Club. His father, upon passing, donated his corneas to help the blind; serving the blind is one of the club’s missions. Also, Perner developed a strong sense of service with the Marine Corps. He wants to play an active role in Ocoee’s community. Shown at the club’s Officer Installation Dinner are Lions District Governor Al Becker, left, Perner’s Lions Club sponsor, Tim Fore, and Perner.

+ Church to celebrate new school year

Elevation Christian Church, 120 W. Mckey St., Ocoee, plans to host a community back- to-school event from noon to 4 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 9, in the adjacent Mckey Crossings Plaza.

Organizers will give away school supplies to the first 200 students who attend. The event, which is supported by the city of Ocoee, also will feature free haircuts, live music, face painting and bounce houses.

To learn more, visit elevationflorida.org.

+ Woman’s Club to host benefit

The GFWC Woman’s Club of Ocoee will host a Bunco Fundraiser for the Valencia Foundation Criminal Justice Program in memory of Deputy Jonathan Scott Pine at 7 p.m. Thursday, July 24, at the Woman’s Club of Ocoee, 4 N. Lakewood Drive, Ocoee.

Tickets are $10 per person. The fundraiser is open to the public and will include refreshments, a 50/50 raffle and a basket raffle.

To buy tickets, call Teresa Lemons at (407) 579-7977.