Orlando Remembered

Author Archives: Ron Jaffe

2017-02-15 – Meeting Minutes

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On Wednesday, February 15, 2017, Orlando Remembered, Inc., met at the Orange County Regional History Center, 65 E. Central Blvd., Orlando FL. Meeting was called to order at 9 a.m., followed by the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America. Attending were:

Claude Wolfe, President
Vic Ratliff, Vice President
Grace Chewning, Secretary/Treas.
Joe Baker
Heather Bonds
Whitney Broadaway
Texann Buck
John Camichos
Shirley Cannon
Charlie Gray
Ron Jaffe
Bill Leach
Mark Line
John Olin
Gail Padgett
Bunny Parish
Tana Porter
Jane Tracy
Bob Woodbery
Father Nelson Pinder

1. PRESENTATION: Special Guest Speaker, The Reverend Canon Nelson Wardell Pinder [recipient of the 2015 Donald A. Cheney Award], addressed the group with an in-depth commentary on how Orlando remained relatively calm in the center of civil rights tensions experienced elsewhere in the Nation during the 1960s, which he credited to extra-ordinary efforts by City officials and citizenry, citing specific examples of how people worked together to accomplish peaceful integration in “The City Beautiful.”

2. MINUTES – The January 18 minutes were approved as written on motion of V. Ratliff, seconded by B. Leach and vote carried.

3. TREASURER’S REPORT: $26,387 as of 1-31.

4. ON-GOING ACTIVITIES: () Reminder that the 2017 “John Young History Makers” event is April 5 at the Church Street Ballroom honoring Pat Williams [present] and Dr. Wells [past]. () Referring to March 2nd “What’s Up Downtown” Historic Walking Tour, Mark Line noted that several members will appear in “character” at various stops along the route.

5. ANNOUNCEMENTS/GOOD OF THE ORDER: ☺ Get-Well Wishes to Emmett O’Dell who is undergoing surgery today on his arm! ☺ Loving thoughts to Bob Serros for continued improvement and return to OR!

6. ORLANDOANS REMEMBERED: People whose lives were so important to so many, who helped make Orlando a great City and whose passing represents a significant loss to our community: David Wash Foley, Sr.; Barbara Ann Stone Roth; Jane McNerney Staly; John Richard “Jack” Shirek; Edwin “Ed” Desso Creech; Mary Jean Moore Riddle; William “Bill” Hayes Barnes; Chester Walker Bankston, Jr.; Robert Leon Becton; Faye Cleveland Ankney; James “Jim” Blair Thomas.

7. ADJOURNMENT: There being no further business, meeting was adjourned at 10:30 a.m. Next OR gathering is March 15th, 9 a.m., at the History Center.

Grace Ann Chewning, Secretary-Treasurer

Orlando Remembered, Inc., Loves “The City Beautiful!”

2017-01-18 – Meeting Minutes

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On Wednesday, January 18, 2017, Orlando Remembered, Inc., met at the Orange County Regional History Center, 65 E. Central Blvd., Orlando FL. Meeting was called to order at 9 a.m., followed by the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America. Attending were:

Claude Wolfe, President
Vic Ratliff, Vice President
Grace Chewning, Secretary/Treas.
Daniel Assael
Joe Baker
Texann Buck
John Camichos
Shirley Cannon
Richard Forbes
Leon Handley
Ron Jaffe
Bill Leach
Mark Line
John Olin
Gail Padgett
Bunny Parish
Mike Perkins
Tiffany Rivera
Jane Tracy
Peggy Jo van den Berg
Bob Woodbery
Robert N. Blackford
Hank Katzen
Brian Wilson

1. PRESENTATION: Special Guest Speaker, Robert Newton Blackford, Esq., 3rd generation Orlandoan and grandson of N[ewton] P[endleton]. Yowell [1872-1960], addressed the group with an extremely interesting historical review of his grandfather’s personal, business and religious life in “The City Beautiful.” Special attention was given to role in construction of the building at 1 S. Orange Ave. and development of the Yowell-Drew-Ivey retail operation. Additional information involved participation in First Presbyterian Church activities over the years, especially “Yowell’s Young Presbyters” founded in 1906, with input from Leon Handley who “inherited” the class! Hank Katzen, immediate past owner of property, and Brian Wilson, new owner, shared thoughts relating to this historic edifice and efforts toward its continued veneration. It was moved by L. Handley, seconded by M. Line and vote carried that Bob Blackford be designated as an official “Friend” of OR!

2. MINUTES – The December 11 minutes were approved as written on motion of V. Ratliff, seconded by L. Handley and vote carried.

3. TREASURER’S REPORT: $26,375.40 as of 12-31.

4. ON-GOING ACTIVITIES: () Mike Perkins accounted the 2017 “John Young History Makers” event is scheduled for April 5 at the Church Street Ballroom honoring Pat Williams [present] and Dr. Wells [past]. () Referring to March 2nd “What’s Up Downtown” Historic Walking Tour, Mark Line requested members who have agreed to appear in “character” at various stops along the route to confirm their participation with him. () Tiffany Rivera distributed flyer on UCF RICHES presentation of “An Oral History Workshop,” Thursday, February 16, 3:30 p.m.-5:45 p.m., at the UCF Graduate Student Center, Colbourn Hall 146 [free; register online or call 823-0242]. () Shirley Cannon commented on some of the activities by the Pine Castle Woman’s Club, specifically requesting donation of any items relating to the SkyLake development during the 1950s. () Be sure to check out https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Beacham_Theatre for an exceptional and comprehensive compilation by John Olin!

5. ORLANDOANS REMEMBERED: People whose lives were so important to so many, who helped make Orlando a great City and whose passing represents a significant loss to our community: Elizabeth Ann “Betty Duda; Marie Novello Caruso; Rebecca “Becky” Thomas Millitzer; Maurice Mitchel Paul, Esq.; William “Billy” Long; Dr. Kenneth Frederick Dutt; Susan Arline Williams.

6. ADJOURNMENT: There being no further business, meeting was adjourned at 10:30 a.m. Next OR gathering is February 15, 2017, 9 a.m., at the History Center.

Grace Ann Chewning, Secretary-Treasurer
Orlando Remembered, Inc., Loves “The City Beautiful!”

2016-12-11 – Meeting Minutes

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On Sunday, December 11, 2016, Orlando Remembered, Inc., met at Sandy and Shelia Dann’s home, 3206 Greens Avenue, Orlando FL, an “Orlando Historical Landmark.” Meeting was called to order at 2 p.m. Attending were:

Claude Wolfe, President
Vic Ratliff, Vice President
Grace Chewning, Secy./Treas.
Shirley Cannon
Sandy/Shelia Dann
Joy Wallace Dickinson
Richard Forbes
Charlie/Saundra Gray
Jim/Ronnie Hardman
Claude/Gloria Hunter
Aracelis Jaffe
Rodney/Sue Kincaid
Bill/Barbara Leach
Mark/Janet Line
Billy/Joan Milligan
Bunny Parish
Tana Porter
Robert Smith
Sara Van Arsdel

1. MINUTES – The November 16 minutes were approved as written on motion of M. Line, seconded by V. Ratliff and vote carried.

2. TREASURER’S REPORT: $26,368.80 as of 11-30.

3. ORLANDOANS REMEMBERED: People whose lives were so important to so many, who helped make Orlando a great City and whose passing represents a significant loss to our community: Marjorie “Marge” Jackson LaBarge; Harriet Reed Knight Ayers; Bennie A. Barnwell; Betsy Bryson; Emily Towers Hartmeyer; Richard L. “Dick” Fletcher, Sr.; Nancy Johnson Barr; May Porter; Jacqueline “Jackie” Carter Sanderlin; John “Roger” Fletcher.

6. ADJOURNMENT: There being no further business, meeting was adjourned at 2:15 p.m. Next OR gathering is January 18, 2017, 9 a.m., at the History Center, 65 E. Central Blvd.

Grace Ann Chewning, Secretary-Treasurer

“SPECIAL THANX TO SANDY & SHELIA DANN AS HOST & HOSTESS EXTRAORDINAIRES!”

Orlando Remembered, Inc., Loves “The City Beautiful!”

2016-11-16 – Meeting Minutes

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On Wednesday, November 16, 2016, Orlando Remembered, Inc., met at the Orange County Regional History Center, 65 E. Central Blvd., Orlando FL. Meeting was called to order at 9 a.m., followed by the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America. Attending were:

Claude Wolfe, President
Vic Ratliff, Vice President
Grace Chewning, Secretary/Treas.
Daniel Assael
Joe Baker
Texann Buck
Sandy/Shelia Dann
Leon Handley
Ron Jaffe
Bill Leach
Mark Line
Gail Padgett
Bunny Parish
Tana Porter
Dann Pottinger
Tiffany Rivera
Robert Smith
Jane Tracy
Bob Woodbery
Heather Bonds
Whitney Broadaway

1. MINUTES – The October 19 minutes were approved as written on motion of L. Handley, seconded by V. Ratliff and vote carried.

2. TREASURER’S REPORT: $26,862.54 as of 10-31.

3. PRESENTATION: Following an informative historical timeline, Ron Jaffe ran a video produced in 1960 by Col Harold S. and Elizabeth Wurtele for the Orlando Chamber of Commerce entitled, Orlando: The City With a New Look, promoting our City as an active area encouraging families and businesses to locate in “The City Beautiful.” The film highlighted a number of local sites from that era, including malls, parks, recreational facilities, churches, schools, citrus operations and Martin-Marietta. Ron also previewed the orlandoremembered.org website and its various links.

4. EXHIBITS/DISPLAY PANELS: Mark Line related that the Task Force [with Tana Porter/content; Ron Jaffe/technical; Anita Lam/graphics] has started developing plans for installing the panels per previously approved design concept with QR codes and website info, noting installation of the first one is proposed at 1 N. Orange Ave., per agreement with Hank Katzen, building owner at 1 N. Orange Ave., who has pledged $1,000 therefor.

ON-GOING ACTIVITIES: () Mark Line advised that the “What’s Up Downtown” Historic Walking Tour will be March 2, 2017, starting 9:30 a.m. at the Downtown Orlando Information Center, 201 S. Orange Ave.; and Manager Rose Garlick has invited OR members to again join in the fun by appearing in “character” at various stops along the route. ()Tiffany Rivera reported that the UCF RICHES program is now being sought after to host History Harvests, a collaborative, community based digital project and learning initiative that aims to involve the public in preserving its own history. With the support of the National Endowment for the Humanities, RICHES conducted harvests in Sanford, the City of Oviedo and Parramore; now working with the GLBT History Museum to host a harvest focusing on Preserving Orlando’s GLBT Community History in a Digital Age. Spring RICHES events include a harvest in Cocoa, oral histories with the Orlando Gay Chorus and oral history training workshops. She extended an invitation to the History Department Internship & Project Showcase on Monday, December 5, 10:30 a.m., to hear about the work UCF History students are doing in the community. () Whitney Broadaway noted numerous undertakings by the History Center, specifically an exhibit scheduled for February – “Plastic Unwrapped.” () Shirley Cannon gave an update about on-going activities of the Pine Castle Woman’s Club, the Pine Castle Historical Society and Heritage Board, such as commitment by Harriett Lake on publication of a book about the SkyLake development. () Heather Bonds announced that the 2017 Historic Preservation Calendars are available!
5. ORLANDOANS REMEMBERED: People whose lives were so important to so many, who helped make Orlando a great City and whose passing represents a significant loss to our community: Charter Member Joseph Shedd Guernsey; Hon. Patricia Anne “Pat” Johnson Schwartz; Daniel Martin Lamos, Sr.

6. ADJOURNMENT: There being no further business, meeting was adjourned at 10:30 a.m. Next OR gathering is December 11, 2016, 1 p.m., at the Dann Home, an “Orlando Historical Landmark,” 3206 Greens Ave.

Grace Ann Chewning, Secretary-Treasurer

Orlando Remembered, Inc., Loves “The City Beautiful!”

2016-10-19 – Meeting Minutes

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On Wednesday, October 19, 2016, Orlando Remembered, Inc., met at the Orange County Regional History Center, 65 E. Central Blvd., Orlando FL. Meeting was called to order at 9 a.m., followed by the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America. Attending were:

Claude Wolfe, President
Shirley Cannon, Vice President
Grace Chewning, Secretary/Treas.
Mark Line, Past Chairman
Daniel Assael
Joe Baker
Ann Bennett
Texann Buck
John Camichos
Leon Handley
Rodney Kincaid
Bill Leach
Gail Padgett
Bunny Parish
Peggy Jo van den Berg
Bob Woodbery
Mike Perkins
Ashlie Darley
Walter Hawkins

1. MINUTES – The September 21 minutes were approved as written on motion of A. Bennett, seconded by T. Buck and vote carried.

2. TREASURER’S REPORT: $26,856.08 as of 9-30.

3. EXHIBITS/DISPLAY PANELS: Mark Line, Coordinator, reviewed status of various items listed in Agenda Item 3 and requested updates from individual assignees as specific efforts progress.

4. OLD BUSINESS: The October 13th 2016 Donald A. Cheney Award Celebration honoring our “Friend” Don Price, Greenwood Cemetery Sexton, was a great evening!

5. NEW BUSINESS: Ashlie Darley and Gail Padgett extended an Invitation to attend the St. Luke’s Episcopal Church dedication of its National Historic Marker this Sunday at 9 a.m.

6. ON-GOING ACTIVITIES: () Mike Perkins provided an overview of numerous programs, exhibits and activities involving the History Center. () Shirley Cannon noted that Mark Line is the new Chairman of the Pinecastle Heritage Board.

7. ANNOUNCEMENTS/GOOD OF THE ORDER:  Walter Hawkins, Director of Urban Development, City of Orlando, addressed the group with an extremely interesting – and entertaining! – perspective of his life growing up in the Parramore area.

8. ORLANDOANS REMEMBERED: People whose lives were so important to so many, who helped make Orlando a great City and whose passing represents a significant loss to our community: Louis Edward “Lou” Stone; Doris Wilma Bleckley; Thomas Albert Ravenscroft, Sr.; Joseph Scott “Joe” Fosgate; Charles Warren Abbott, Esq.; Dr. Charles Russell Capehart, Sr.; Selby William Sullivan, Esq.; Beverly Ann Burcham Dantzler.

9. ADJOURNMENT: There being no further business, meeting was adjourned at 10:10 a.m. Next OR gathering is November 16, 2016, 9 a.m., at the History Center.

Grace Ann Chewning, Secretary-Treasurer

Orlando Remembered, Inc., Loves “The City Beautiful!”

2016-09-21 – Meeting Minutes

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On Wednesday, September 21, 2016, Orlando Remembered, Inc., held its Annual Meeting in the Grand Jury Room on the second floor of the Orange County Regional History Center, 65 E. Central Blvd., Orlando FL. Meeting was called to order at 9:00 a.m., followed by the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America. Attending were:

Shirley Cannon, Vice President
Grace Chewning, Secretary/Treas.
Mark Line, Past Chairman
Joe Baker
Ann Bennett
John Canichos
Sandy/Shelia Dann
Joy Dickinson
Leon Handley
Ron Jaffe
Rodney Kincaid
Bill Leach
Emmett O’Dell
Bunny Parish
Vic Ratliff
Claude Wolfe
Richard Forbes
Susan Omoto
John Olin

1. MINUTES – The June 15 minutes were approved as written on motion of E. O’Dell, seconded by V. Ratliff and vote carried.

2. TREASURER’S REPORT – $26,855.45 as of 8-31.

3. PROJECT PRIORITIES
A] Ron Jaffe provided an informative AND exciting preview of our OR website at orlandoremembered.org features of which include: printable Downtown Walking Tour Map; 1960s downtown aerial map with legend; vintage video scrapbook, current member bios/photos; minutes from Jan. 2015; event calendar of meetings/related events; “Join” and “About” pages; Contact Form; Orlando History Timeline; search functionality. A large-screen visual presentation is tentatively set for our November 16th meeting. Following some discussion, it was moved by M. Line, seconded by G. Chewning and vote carried that appreciation to Ron for his professional dedication to this important project be more tangibly expressed with a $500 check!
B] Claude Wolfe advised that a location has been determined for reinstallation of the San Juan display.
C] Per J. Tracy and Mark Line, the Orlando Public Library exhibit is tentatively scheduled for relocation to the 4th floor in December.

4. OLD BUSINESS: [a] Strategic Initiatives/5-year Plan/2017-2021 [ad hoc committee: Bob Serros, Shirley Cannon, Mark Line, Emmett O’Dell and Tiffany Rivera].

5. NEW BUSINESS: [a] Mark Line, representing the Nominating Committee, presented the following slate of Officers for 3-year terms pursuant to the Bylaws: Claude Wolfe, President; Victor Ratliff, Vice President; Grace Chewning, Secretary-Treasurer. There being no nominations from the floor, it was moved by A. Bennett, seconded by R. Kincaid and vote carried unanimously that the foregoing slate be elected by acclamation. [b] M. Line commented on contacts with representatives of the Aloft Orlando Downtown Hotel expressing interest in a commemorative display at 500 S. Orange Ave.

6. ON-GOING ACTIVITIES: () Mike Perkins provided an update on staff efforts addressing the mammoth preservation project memorializing the June 12th shooting tragedy at the Pulse Club. He also noted various activities at the History Center, such as “Searching for the Seventies: The Documerica Photography Project” exhibit from the Smithsonian Institution through 10-30; tomorrow evening’s fundraiser hosted by the Historical Society, “Through the Ages: Celebrating the Seventies in Central Florida”; and the 10-13 Donald A. Cheney Historical Award event honoring Don Price, Greenwood Cemetery Sexton. () Shirley Cannon distributed invitations to the 10-15 “BBQ-Beer & Barn Dancing” in Bagshaw Park benefitting the Pine Castle History Center, noting the Pine Castle Retired Fire Fighters Assn. have donated $57,000 toward this project! () Joy Dickinson commented on “Open House” by Orange Preservation Trust for input from Holden Heights area.

7. ANNOUNCEMENTS/GOOD OF THE ORDER: Richard Forbes indicated the 1924 Marsh/Eola House, 512 E. Washington St., the Mayor Bob Carr Performing Arts Center/Municipal Auditorium and the Davis Armory have been granted City Landmark designation and that such status for the Carl Dann residence at 3206 Greens Ave. was approved this month by the Orlando Historic Preservation Board.  Bunny Parrish advised that the three names proposed for Robert E. Lee Middle School are: Lee Middle, East Middle or College Park Middle.  REMINDER: “Member Bios” [and photos!] are requested for the OR Website.

8. ORLANDOANS REMEMBERED: People whose lives were so important to so many, who helped make Orlando a great City and whose passing represents a significant loss to our community: Sally Shearouse Downs; Lilian Kannermann Sills; David Scanlon Smyth; Earl L. Pfantz; Gary Ralph Hamilton; Stephen Eddy Slack; Joerg Friedrich Krafft Jaeger, Esq.; Wayne Thos. Hardy; Lee Daniel Fulford; Mary Martha Houston Webb; Randall R. Tuten; Mary Gertrude Barnello Campbell Donley; Robert Leland Murrah, Sr.; Robert L. McWilliams, Sr.; Chas. Kenneth “Pete” Cross; George R. Crimmings, Jr.; Charles Rouse Crittenden, Sr.; Ruth Brender; LeRoy Runge Gilbert; Philip Z. Leighton; Pinka McEwan Septer; Charles Wilson Rex. Jr.; Frank Holt; Diane Heller Gay; Mattie Lois Stapleton Rouse; Ray Garfield Love; Richard W. Lassiter, Esq.; Lawrence Sands, Esq.; Fr. John McCormick; Ralph Yacobian.

9. ADJOURNMENT – There being no further business, VP Cannon declared the meeting adjourned – at 10:15 a.m. Next OR gathering is Wednesday, October 19, 2016, 9 a.m., at the Orange County Regional History Center.

Grace Ann Chewning, Secretary-Treasurer

Orlando Remembered, Inc., Loves “The City Beautiful!”

RICHes
• MOSAIC INTERFACE'”

Dear Members of Orlando Remembered,

I just wanted to take the opportunity at the last meeting of the year to thank Orlando Remembered for your partnership and your support of RICHES. You “took me in” and encouraged me when the project was little more than words on paper and a website under construction. You have opened doors for me and for the project that were not possible on my own. You have shown me the richness of this community and opened my eyes to research possibilities that I might not have seen without you. I thank you from the bottom of my heart for the opportunities and friendships you have provided.

My thanks go beyond what I have received as result of the partnership between RICHES and Orlando Remembered. I also thank you for what you have done for so many history students at UCF When we first decided to digitize the Orlando Remembered exhibits, I wasn’t sure how we would ever accomplish this in a timely way. At the beginning of the partnership we relied on interns. However, for the last few semesters Orlando Remembered has become a class project in Rose Beiler’s “History and Historians” class. A number of you have met with the classes and talked about the organization and the city’s history. You have mentored students and answered questions. You have attended the end-of-the semester presentations and heard the students reflect on their experiences and their new interest in local history. I think you could see that history suddenly became vibrant and “real” for them. They recognized the need for context, both through the secondary literature and in compiling the primary evidence, in ways that textbook reading could not convey. They learned to interact with the community, the literature, and the digital tools in ways that will serve them well regardless of their future work. Several students have gone on to undertake internships because they enjoyed the class. Thank you for assisting us in the teaching of history. I look forward to working with you to complete the digitization of the exhibits.

Finally, the association with Orlando Remembered has produced other rewards as well. Most recently Grace Chewning and Joy Dickinson have provided background for another project on Parramore. Their knowledge about events and their introductions to people associated with that community enabled students in history and film to collect oral histories for RICHES and for the making of a forthcoming documentary film.

With best regards,

Connie L. Lester

2016-06-15 – Meeting Minutes

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NOTE: Please scroll down past meeting minutes for letter from Dr. Connie Lester, UCF:

On Wednesday, June 15, 2016, Orlando Remembered, Inc., met on the second floor, Orange County Regional History Center, 65 E. Central Blvd., Orlando FL. Meeting was called to order at 9:00 a.m., followed by the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America. Attending were:

Shirley Cannon, Vice President

Grace Chewning, Secretary/Treas.

Mark Line, Past Chairman

Daniel Assael

Joe Baker

Ann Bennett

John Canichos

Sandy/Shelia Dann

Joy Dickinson

Charlie Gray

Ron Jaffe

Rodney Kincaid

Bill Leach

Tana Porter

Tiffany Rivera

Jane Tracy

Peggy Jo van den Berg

Claude Wolfe

Heather Bonds

Susan Omoto

Pam Schwartz

Jonathan Sebastian Blount

Jim Stoddard

  1. MINUTES – The May 18 minutes were approved as written on motion of R. Kincaid, seconded by A. Bennett and vote carried.
  1. TREASURER’S REPORT – OR/$18,862.70; Andrew Serros Legacy Endowment/$9,544.00.
  1. PROJECT PRIORITIES

A] Check out the OR website at orlandoremembered.org developed by Matt Higgs/HardcoreDev.com and our “in-house” guru, Ron Jaffe, who plans on including additional information, such as the Walking Tour and member bio info. Installation should now proceed of approved prototype display panels with the new design/branding concept and Logo for initial locations considered at 1 S. Orange Ave., 20 N. Orange Ave./San Juan, 390 N. Orange Ave./Bank of America, Autrey Arcade/Jefferson Court block. As to 1 S. Orange Ave., Mark Line continues to interface with Hank Katzen, property owner, for signage on the building and his verbal pledge of $1,000 therefor.

B] Claude Wolfe and Mark Line are pursuing reinstallation of the San Juan display at 20 N. Orange Ave. or at possible alternative sites.

C] Pam Schwartz advised that items in the Orlando Public Library display have been removed for preservation/storage pending relocation of the exhibit to the 4th floor of the Library.

  1. OLD BUSINESS: [a] Updated Strategic Initiatives/5-year Plan: In hands of volunteer ad hoc committee [Bob Serros, Shirley Cannon, Mark Line, Emmett O’Dell and Tiffany Rivera]. [b] As to removal of our display from the lobby of Regions Bank, 111 N. Orange Ave., Pam Schwartz indicated the case is in storage waiting relocation, which Claude Wolfe is helping to accomplish.
  1. NEW BUSINESS: [a] General consensus was expressed by members present to approve the concept of a proposed display for the Volos Relief Effort/Orlando Plan with Camichos’ Family Archives. Jane Tracy reported that: Lisa Camichos is presenting the Plan to the Volos Museum TODAY!, and John Camichos’ Oral History Interview is now on “Orlando Memory” at: http://www.orlandomemory.info/memory/person/oral-history-interview-pano-john-camichos.
  1. ON-GOING ACTIVITIES: (˜) Tiffany Rivera read a letter to OR from Dr. Connie Lester, UCF RICHES [copy attached]. (˜) Pam Schwartz commented on the planning process underway initiated by the Historical Society to address capital and infrastructure needs of revitalizing/modernizing the History Center’s exhibits and space. She also announced the gigantic undertaking by the History Center to memorialize the June 12th shooting tragedy at the Pulse Club. (˜) John Olin directed attention to website he is developing on the Beacham Theater at: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Beacham_Theater. Also, check out: http://www.laweekly.com/music/before-la-orlando-was-a-club-culture-capital-7023952. (˜) Shirley Cannon reviewed various events and activities sponsored by the Pinecastle Woman’s Club and Historical Society.
  1. ANNOUNCEMENTS/GOOD OF THE ORDER: —Heather Bonds, Orlando Historic Preservation Office, related that Tinker Field and the John Mott structure have received State History Markers. She solicited information on the Holden Street School. — Jonathan Sebastian Blount offered remarks about topics of interest. — REMINDER: “Member Bios” [and photos!] are requested for the OR Website.
  1. ORLANDOANS REMEMBERED: People whose lives were so important to so many, who helped make Orlando a great City and whose passing represents a significant loss to our community: Harry Chandler Luff, Jr.; Delbert K. Kieffner; Dr. Gregory “Greg” O. Munson; Wallace Earl Downs; Jacqueline Joiner Denton; Barbara Patterson Gilbert; Dr. Michael E. Schoeffel; Richard Albert Bazzo, Past Chairman of Orlando Remembered.
  1. ADJOURNMENT – There being no further business, VP Cannon declared the meeting adjourned – at 10 a.m. Next OR gathering is Wednesday, September 21, 2016, 9 a.m., at the Orange County Regional History Center.

Grace Ann Chewning, Secretary-Treasurer

LETTER FROM CONNIE LESTER

RE: Riches Interface

Dear Members of Orlando Remembered,

I just wanted to take the opportunity at the last meeting of the year to thank Orlando Remembered for your partnership and your support of RICHES. You “took me in” and encouraged me when the project was little more than words on paper and a website under construction. You have opened doors for me and for the project that were not possible on my own. You have shown me the richness of this community and opened my eyes to research possibilities that I might not have seen without you. I thank you from the bottom of my heart for the opportunities and friendships you have provided.

My thanks go beyond what I have received as result of the partnership between RICHES and Orlando Remembered. I also thank you for what you have done for so many history students at UCF When we first decided to digitize the Orlando Remembered exhibits, I wasn’t sure how we would ever accomplish this in a timely way. At the beginning of the partnership we relied on interns. However, for the last few semesters Orlando Remembered has become a class project in Rose Beiler’s “History and Historians” class. A number of you have met with the classes and talked about the organization and the city’s history. You have mentored students and answered questions. You have attended the end-of-the semester presentations and heard the students reflect on their experiences and their new interest in local history. I think you could see that history suddenly became vibrant and “real” for them. They recognized the need for context, both through the secondary literature and in compiling the primary evidence, in ways that textbook reading could not convey. They learned to interact with the community, the literature, and the digital tools in ways that will serve them well regardless of their future work. Several students have gone on to undertake internships because they enjoyed the class. Thank you for assisting us in the teaching of history. I look forward to working with you to complete the digitization of the exhibits.

Finally, the association with Orlando Remembered has produced other rewards as well. Most recently Grace Chewning and Joy Dickinson have provided background for another project on Parramore. Their knowledge about events and their introductions to people associated with that community enabled students in history and film to collect oral histories for RICHES and for the making of a forthcoming documentary film.

With best regards,

Connie L. Lester

2016-05-18 – Meeting Minutes

Posted on by Posted in Meeting Minutes .

On Wednesday, May 18, 2016, Orlando Remembered, Inc., met in the Grand Jury Room, Orange County Regional History Center, 65 E. Central Blvd., Orlando FL. Meeting was called to order at 9:10 a.m., followed by the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America. Attending were:

Robert Serros, President
Shirley Cannon, Vice President
Grace Chewning, Secretary/Treas.
Mark Line, Past Chairman
Joe Baker
Sandy/Shelia Dann
Richard Forbes
Leon Handley
Ron Jaffe
Rodney Kincaid
Bill Leach
Gail Padgett
Bunny Parrish
Vic Ratliff
Tiffany Rivera
Peggy Jo van den Berg
Claude Wolfe
John Olin
Jonathan Sebastian Blount
Jim Stoddard

1. MINUTES – The April 20 minutes were approved as written on motion of L. Handley, seconded by R. Kincaid and vote carried.

2. TREASURER’S REPORT – OR/$17,339.10; Andrew Serros Legacy Endowment/$9,544.00.

3. PROJECT PRIORITIES
A] The OR website may be viewed at orlandoremembered.org per Matt Higgs/HardcoreDev.com and our “in-house” guru, Ron Jaffe. Implementation of steps necessary to install approved prototype display panels with the new design/branding concept and Logo may proceed for initial locations considered at 1 S. Orange Ave., 20 N. Orange Ave./San Juan, 390 N. Orange Ave./Bank of America, Autrey Arcade/Jefferson Court block. As to 1 S. Orange Ave., Mark Line stated he has met with Hank Katzen, owner of 1 N. Orange Ave., who also wishes to work with Richard Forbes on Historic Preservation signage that will include Orlando Remembered. Mr. Katzen has given a verbal pledge of $1,000 therefor.
B] Reinstallation of the San Juan display at 20 N. Orange Ave. is on-going with alternative sites under consideration.
C] Relocation of the Orlando Public Library display to the 4th floor is “on schedule.”

4. OLD BUSINESS: [a] Updated Strategic Initiatives/5-year Plan: In hands of volunteer ad hoc committee [Bob Serros, Shirley Cannon, Mark Line, Emmett O’Dell and Tiffany Rivera].

5. NEW BUSINESS: [a] The Transfer & Release Agreement [aka MOU] between Orlando Remembered, Inc., and the Historical Society of Central Florida, Inc., is dated May 10, 2016. “Up-front” expenditures incurred for OR 501(c)(3) charitable status will now be reimbursed by the Historical Society. [b] Mark Line commented on recent situation involving removal of our display from the lobby of Regions Bank, 111 N. Orange Ave. and placed in storage by Historical Society staff.

6. ON-GOING ACTIVITIES: () Jim Stoddard reviewed the project he is undertaking, working with the UCF “RICHES” program, on the downtown US Post Office, involving meta-data collection. His contact info is 321-231-5599, [email protected]. () Shirley Cannon noted that the Pinecastle Woman’s Club/Historical Society also is working with UCF history students to digitize Pinecastle’s History!

7. ANNOUNCEMENTS/GOOD OF THE ORDER:  Richard Forbes commented on Agenda items at tomorrow’s Annual Meeting of the Florida Historical Society, including recognition awards to Joy Dickinson, Rick Kilby and Sara Van Arsdel! He indicated the Lake Eola Park has been approved for historical designation and will go to the City’s Municipal Planning Board for action.  Bunny Parish advised that Princeton Elementary school still needs money [https://gofundme.com/PrincetonLeeFinals] to help its team attend the May Odyssey of the Mind World Finals in Ames, Iowa.  Peggy Jo van den Berg reported that Toasy Martin has agreed to make a presentation during one of our meetings in the Fall similar to the outstanding pictorial power point she did at the April “Orlando Natives” bi-annual event!  Get-Well Wishes to Bob and Texann Ivy Buck!  Jonathan Sebastian Blount offered remarks about various celebrations and topics of interest.  Mark Line distributed “Member Bio” forms to be filled out for the OR Website.

8. ORLANDOANS REMEMBERED: People whose lives were so important to so many, who helped make Orlando a great City and whose passing represents a significant loss to our community: Jack Longfellow; Charles Gazil; Martha Helen King Johnson; Eugene W. Kelsey III; Theresa Mae Gleason Crews; Esther Potter Myers; Edna Yacobian Bishop; Alexander M. Marsh.

9. ADJOURNMENT – There being no further business, Chairman Serros declared the meeting adjourned – at 10 a.m. Next OR gathering is Wednesday, June 15, 2016, 9 a.m., at the Orange County Regional History Center.

Grace Ann Chewning, Secretary-Treasurer

Orlando Remembered, Inc., Loves “The City Beautiful!”

2016-04-20 – Meeting Minutes

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On Wednesday, April 20, 2016, Orlando Remembered, Inc., met in the Melrose Center, Orlando Public Library, 101 E. Central Blvd., Orlando FL. Meeting was called to order at 9:15 a.m., followed by the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America. Attending were:

Robert Serros, President
Shirley Cannon, Vice President
Grace Chewning, Secretary/Treas.
Mark Line, Past Chairman
Daniel Assael
Joe Baker
Ann Bennett
Texann Buck
Sandy Dann
Leon Handley
Rodney Kincaid
Emmett O’Dell
Tiffany Rivera
Gail Padgett
Bunny Parrish
Vic Ratliff
Peggy Jo van den Berg
Claude Wolfe
Bob Woodbery
John Olin
Heather Homan

Utilizing the Melrose Center Media Wall, Tiffany Rivera, Assistant Director of Educational/Training Programs, UCF History Department, made a “dynamite” presentation profiling accomplishments of efforts by Spring 2016 History interns to digitize various exhibits, specifically the OR City Hall Exhibit Project and highlighting recent student work on the Downtown Post Office Collection [https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/omeka/items/show/6499]! The students will showcase this term’s projects on April 27, 12:30-4 p.m., at UCF Coburn Hall. Check out https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/omeka2/exhibits.

1. MINUTES – The March 17 minutes were approved as written on motion of A. Bennett, seconded by E. O’Dellf and vote carried.

2. TREASURER’S REPORT – OR/$17,334.78; Andrew Serros Legacy Endowment/$9,537.93.

3. PROJECT PRIORITIES
A] The OR website [orlandoremembered.org] should be operational before or by next meeting, per Matt Higgs, HardcoreDev.com, which will allow implementation of steps necessary to install approved prototype display panels with the new design/branding concept and Logo. Initial locations for the panels include 1 S. Orange Ave., 20 N. Orange Ave./San Juan, 390 N. Orange Ave./Bank of America, Autrey Arcade/Jefferson Court block. As to 1 S. Orange Ave., Mark Line noted that Tana Porter is assisting in content of the Letter of Agreement requested by owner, Hank Katzen, who has given a verbal pledge of $1,000 therefor. Emmett O’Dell advised of meeting with Ron Jaffee and Tana Porter to identify maps of 77 properties from 1936 within Church-Jefferson-Garland-Rosalind area, noting funds may be available for panels through FDOT “culturalscaping.”
B] Claude Wolfe offered to continue pursuing reinstallation of the San Juan display at 20 N. Orange Ave. If unsuccessful, it was recommended going to “Plan B”/placement at the Angebilt Hotel site. C] Mark Line reported the relocation of the Orlando Public Library to the 4th floor is “on the move.”

4. OLD BUSINESS: [a] Updated Strategic Initiatives: Following discussion, consensus was to develop a 5-year plan. Members who volunteered to serve as an ad hoc committee for this purpose include Bob Serros, Shirley Cannon, Mark Line, Emmett O’Dell and Tiffany Rivera.

5. NEW BUSINESS: [a] A Memorandum of Understanding [MOU] will be forthcoming outlining the Orlando Remembered, Inc./Historical Society relationship. Upon execution, up-front-monies incurred for OR 501(c)(3) charitable status expenses will be reimbursed by the Historical Society.

6. ON-GOING ACTIVITIES: () Shirley Cannon related project with UCF history students to digitize the Pinecastle History! () Mark Line indicated the Orange Preservation Trust is doing well and moving forward.

7. ANNOUNCEMENTS/GOOD OF THE ORDER:  Bunny Parish noted monies may be donated at https://gofundme.com/PrincetonLeeFinals to help teams attend the May Odyssey of the Mind World Finals in Ames, Iowa. Ballots are being tabulated on proposed name change at Lee Middle School for presentation to the School Board.  Heather Homan distributed flyer concerning the 2017 Orlando Historic Preservation Board Calendar Contest, seeking to capture diverse vertical elements throughout the City’s historic districts and landmarks in black and white photos with the theme “Verticality in Architecture.” Entries must be submitted or postmarked by July 8, 5 p.m. [cityoforlando.net/calendarcontest].  Via email, Jane Tracy sent a reminder about upcoming Preservation Week presentations [http://www.ocls.info/Programs/Articles/Newsletter/16April/PreservationWeek.asp?from=vurl_preservationweek] and extended invitation to visit the 3rd floor at the Library to see the Camichos Family Archives on display regarding the Volos, Greece, Relief Effort [https://www.youtube.com/embed/SN5c-m45fxs and http://www.orlandomemory.info/search?combine=Volos].

8. ORLANDOANS REMEMBERED – People whose lives were so important to so many, who helped make Orlando a great City and whose passing represents a significant loss to our community: Kendell Wooldridge Wherry, Esq.; Dr. Roy Henry Dippy; Kenneth Somerset Murray; James Arthur Davis; Dorthea C. Watson, Esq.; Agnes Adams Trimble; Jack Robert Beattie, DDS; Leo Morris; Bertha Schuur Gemeinhardt; Dr. Lester C. Nunnally.

9. ADJOURNMENT – There being no further business, it was moved by M. Line, seconded by E. O’Dell and vote carried that the meeting be adjourned – at 10:30 a.m. Next OR gathering is May 18, 2016, 9 a.m., at the Orange County Regional History Center.

Grace Ann Chewning, Secretary-Treasurer

Orlando Remembered, Inc., Loves “The City Beautiful!”

2016-03-16 – Meeting Minutes

Posted on by Posted in Meeting Minutes .

On Wednesday, March 16, 2016, Orlando Remembered, Inc., met in the 3rd floor Grand Jury Room at the Orange County Regional History Center, 65 E. Central Blvd., Orlando FL. Meeting was called to order at 9 a.m., followed by the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America. Attending were:

Shirley Cannon, Vice President
Grace Chewning, Secretary/Treas.
Mark Line, Past Chairman
Joe Baker
Ann Bennett
John Camichos
Richard Forbes
Leon Handley
Ron Jaffe
Rodney Kincaid
Anita Lam
Bill Leach
Emmett O’Dell
Mike Perkins
Jane Tracy
Peggy Jo van den Berg
Claude Wolfe

1. MINUTES – The February 17 minutes were approved as written on motion of E. O’Dell, seconded by V. Ratliff and vote carried.

2. TREASURER’S REPORT – OR/$17,334.78; Andrew Serros Legacy Endowment/$9,537.93.

3. PROJECT PRIORITIES
A] Still awaiting activation of the OR website, whereupon installation will proceed simultaneously of approved prototype display panels with the new design/branding concept and Logo. Initial locations for the panels include 1 S. Orange Ave., 20 N. Orange Ave./San Juan, 390 N. Orange Ave./Bank of America, Autrey Arcade/Jefferson Court block. As to 1 S. Orange Ave., Mark Line indicated Tana Porter will assist in content of the Letter of Agreement requested by owner, Hank Katzen. B] Claude Wolfe offered to help on contacts regarding relocation of the San Juan display. C] Mark Line reported that relocation of the display in the Orlando Public Library should be accomplished within next 2-3 months.

4. OLD BUSINESS: [a] Strategic Initiatives: ► Member Education. ► Exhibits and website. The Secretary will start sending info/files to Matt Higgs, HardcoreDev.com, for the OR website and to Emmett O’Dell for our Facebook presence. ► “We Love Orlando” Party. ► Orlando Remembered Legacy. Consensus was that steps should be initiated to develop updated Strategic Initiatives. [b] G. Chewning noted that the only process remaining to complete OR 501(c)(3) charitable status is reimbursement of monies from the Historical Society for up-front expenses incurred. [c] “Applause” was given for the successful March 3rd “What’s Up Downtown Historic Walking Tour” attended by 85+, led by Richard Forbes starting at the Downtown Orlando Information Center, 201 S. Orange Ave., involving numerous OR volunteers who appeared “in character” at various stops along the route.

5. NEW BUSINESS: [a] A Memorandum of Understanding [MOU] will be forthcoming outlining the Orlando Remembered, Inc./Historical Society relationship.

6. ON-GOING ACTIVITIES: () Mike Perkins commented on the alliance being developed by the Historical Society with smaller historical societies and museums. Also, there will be a formal “roll-out” on proposed Master Plan for redesign of the History Center. () Via email, Tiffany Rivers, UCF RICHES, advised that the RICHES team remains busy with website enhancements. Recent improvements include making the site ADA accessible, plus more compatible with tablets and smartphones. She is scheduled to demonstrate the site at our April 20th meeting in the Melrose Center at the Orlando Public Library and highlight recent student work on the Downtown Post Office Collection. () Shirley Cannon announced that the Pinecastle Historical Society reached 500 members [and she can now change shirts!]. () The Orange Preservation Trust is meeting on a monthly basis. () Richard Forbes reported that Greenwood Cemetery Sexton Don Price has found the money to restore and move the original Sperry Fountain [that was in Eola Park] from storage to a site at Greenwood!

7. ANNOUNCEMENTS/GOOD OF THE ORDER:  Get Well wishes to John Olin [kidney stone surgery] and prayers of comfort to Joe Guernsey, Charter member of OR, who is home with Hospice care.  John Camichos directed attention to https://www.youtube.com/embed/SN5c-m45fxs for information about the result of a collaboration between the Orange County History Center and the History Center in Volos, Greece, concerning Lisa Camichos’ dissertation: “The Orlando Plan, Orlando’s Effort to Save Volos, Greece” [http://www.orlandomemory.info/search?combine=Volos]. If you can’t read Greek, Jane Tracy has provided a link to the website translated into English:
https://translate.google.com/translate?sl=el&tl=en&js=y&prev=_t&hl=en&ie=UTF-8&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.volosnow.gr%2Fpilio-o-evergetis-pouzoume-pouri-c-o%2F&edit-text=&act=url

8. ORLANDOANS REMEMBERED – People whose lives were so important to so many, who helped make Orlando a great City and whose passing represents a significant loss to our community: Elaine Demos Miliotes; James P. Smeltzer; Tensi B. Shirley; Gwin Eugene “Gene” Pratt, Sr.; Paul A. Root, Jr.; Robert Smith, Sr.

9. ADJOURNMENT – There being no further business, it was moved by C. Wolfe, seconded by A. Bennett and vote carried that the meeting be adjourned – at 10:20 a.m. Next OR gathering is April 20, 2016, 9 a.m., at the Orlando Public Library, Melrose Center.

Grace Ann Chewning, Secretary-Treasurer

Orlando Remembered, Inc., Loves “The City Beautiful!”