In Your Neighborhood - 01/19/12

David and Cathy Sue Ellis of Dr. Phillips announced the marriage of their son, Jason Lee, to Kate Deidre McMechen, daughter of Eugene and Barbara McMechen of Ithaca, N.Y., and Alice McMechen of Warwick, N.Y. Jason is a graduate of Dr. Phillips High School and Auburn University. He works for the U.S. government as an analyst. Kate graduated from Missouri State University and is a former captain in the U.S. Army. She also works for the government. The couple share a love for the arts, as Kate is a board member for Bowie Community Theatre in Maryland, and Jason is an accomplished musician. The couple wed earlier this month in Key West and will reside near Cambridge, U.K., for several years.

The Oaks of Windermere resident Joe Bell received a coveted Edison Award from the Florida Association of Electrical Contractors. The award recognizes an individual who has unselfishly given his time and dedication to charitable work and has strived to improve the electrical industry in Central Florida. Joe has contributed to FAEC for numerous years, as well as served as a mentor and educator, and taken leadership roles.

A group of senior artists who reside at Emeritus at Ocoee won a national art contest held for the more than 500,000 Emeritus Senior Living residents throughout the U.S. More than 250 people entered the contest by submitting a winter-themed art piece created in any medium. Through a public Facebook contest, the artwork co-created by Jean Baker, Janet Bramley, Lyla Bringelson, Dessie Ewing, Thekla Nevius and Bob S. was selected as one of five pieces to be featured on the company’s holiday cards.

Historian, author and teacher K. William Hayes spoke at a recent Rotary Club of Windermere meeting about his experiences with Boy Scouts of America. William is a retired colonel and is actively involved in many community activities, including Rotary International.