The West Orange Chamber of Commerce (WOCC) recently hosted its annual Big Orange Awards on February 22, 2025, at Disney’s Coronado Springs Convention Center. This prestigious event celebrates the outstanding contributions of individuals, businesses, and organizations that have significantly impacted the West Orange community.

Horizon West Happenings: Winner of the George Bailey Award

We were beyond grateful to have been nominated for the George Bailey Award this year, and even more honored to win! We are so proud of our Horizon West Happenings team, and for everyone in our community that makes Horizon West such a special place to live. We have such a high respect for the other nominees in this category and were completely surprised by this win. Our team had a wonderful time attending the event and are grateful to the WOCC for hosting!

Event Overview

The evening commenced with a lively interactive reception, allowing attendees to network and celebrate the community’s achievements. Following the reception, guests enjoyed a gourmet dinner accompanied by fine beverages. The highlight of the evening was the awards ceremony, where the WOCC honored those who have demonstrated exceptional dedication to the betterment of West Orange County.

Award Categories and Honorees

The Big Orange Awards featured several categories, each recognizing distinct forms of excellence within the community.

1. Sam Hovsepian & Mary VanDeventer Award “Spirit of West Orange”
   This award is presented to an individual who exemplifies professional excellence and inspires others through their commitment to the Chamber and the community.
   • Finalists: Ocoee Mayor Rusty Johnson, Jessica Villegas, and Jim Zeitschel.
   • Winner: Ocoee Mayor Rusty Johnson.
2. George Bailey Award
   This award recognizes an individual, organization, or business that has excelled in fostering partnerships benefiting the local community.
   • Finalists: Horizon West Happenings, We Are Winter Garden, and West Orange Dream Center.
   • Winner: Horizon West Happenings.
3. Bert Roper Award
   This award honors an individual, organization, or business that has enhanced the community’s well-being and quality of life.
   • Finalists: Community Health Centers, West Orange Habitat for Humanity, and Dr. Phillips YMCA.
   • Winner: West Orange Habitat for Humanity.
4. Danniel J. Petro Award “The Bright Future of West Orange”
   This award is given to an individual with entrepreneurial tenacity and determination, facilitating opportunities through community investment and relationship development.
   • Finalists: Chris Chan, Jamie Mark, and Tim Haberkamp.
   • Winner: Tim Haberkamp.
5. Big Business Member of the Year Award
   This award recognizes a company with 100 or more employees that embodies the principles of advancing community, collaboration, and leadership.
   • Finalists: Foundation Academy, Valley Bank, and Westgate Resorts.
   • Winner: Westgate Resorts.
6. Small Business Member of the Year Award
   This award honors a company with fewer than 100 employees that exemplifies the principles of advancing community, collaboration, and leadership.
   • Finalists: Dawn Gilmore Productions, Kelly’s Homemade Ice Cream, and Revel Realty.
   • Winner: Kelly’s Homemade Ice Cream.

In addition, the event also honored the following individuals:

• Ambassador of the Year: Cyndi Gustafson
• Lifetime Ambassador Award: Bruce Young
• Chair’s Award: Chris Sapp

Community Impact

The Big Orange Awards serve as a testament to the vibrant and collaborative spirit of the West Orange community. By acknowledging the efforts of these outstanding individuals and organizations, the WOCC fosters a culture of excellence and encourages continued investment in the region’s social and economic development. To learn more about the West Orange Chamber of Commerce, visit their website: WOCC